Salutations! This is a late entry for week 7. However, it will still be a good one. For this week, we learned about Contemporary Realistic Fiction.
Contemporary realistic fiction is a story that is not necessarily true, but it could have happened. Although the words realistic and fiction seem to contradict one another, they really don't here, they actually compliment one another. Whereas some nonfiction stories bore some children, and fantasy bores others, this type of fiction is more in the middle of both enabling more children to enjoy. This type of story allows children to identify with the characters, who are going through many of the same type of real problems and situations. Children like to read about people they identify with. It helps the kids to know they are not alone in their problems or with experiencing certain feelings or emotions.
Many realistic fiction stories deal with very controversial issues and when you or your child are selecting a realistic fiction book, make sure you approve of the issue and that is something age-appropriate for your kiddo. Some of the topics these books contain are Sexism- the discrimination of a person based on sex (gender), which has been directed more towards women throughout history; Sexuality- the feelings one has about sex, whether premarital or extramarital, sexual preferences, and sexual development; Violence; Profanity (foul language); Family problems- these contain things such as divorce, abuse, foster homes, single parenting, and/or abandonment; and Drugs.
Popular subjects for R.F. besides controversial issues include family life, growing up, survival (in cities as well as nature, animals, mysteries, sports, humor, and death.
One thing to be avoided when reading R.F. is stereotyping. According to our textbook, here are some guidelines to follow when looking to avoid stereotypes: 1)materials should balance males and females when they contribute to society and in the jobs they perform. 2)materials should recognize both share basically the same emotions, personality traits, and capabilities. 3)materials should present a range of historical references of women, including those who have contributed to society- whether well known or not. Also historical books should contain coverage of the roles of women of the past. 4) materials should mention references to legal, economic, and social issues related to women, where appropriate.
Okay, now my picks of the week...If you have a young child especially one around the age of 10 Because of Winn-Dixie, or the Ramona series by Beverly Cleary. I've mentioned Because of Winn-Dixie in my Newbery Award post, but the Ramona series is great. The series focuses on the young Ramona Quimby, an 8 year old girl who is in all ways the definition of inquisitive and mischievous. These books not only help your child relate to the character going through the things your child is, but also keep them laughing. Another book series which I have found fabulous in all ways is more for the age group of 14 or 15 and up. The confessions of Georgia Nicholson are about Georgia, a 14 year old British girl who leads a life of complete hilariousness. If it's not her insane parents, wacky friends, or her giant wild cat Angus, it's boys, school, or bullies. Every turn for her is laughable melodrama which I love. The books contain a lot of British slang, but the author is lovely enough to include a dictionary in the back of the book. I recommend you immediately get these books. The first is entitled Angus, Thongs, and Full-Frontal Snogging. Do beware if you detest profanity-these books contain mild language.
That's all folks! Join me next time!