By: Aimee Albright

What’s the difference between realistic fiction and nonfiction? -Realistic fiction contains real ideas that could inevitably happen but have not occurred in life. Nonfiction books are documentaries about real people or real things. “Even fictional novels based on reality, which don’t claim to adhere to fact the way nonfiction books do, run into complications.” (Ask the writer: Why is a faction blending fact with fiction unacceptable as a genre in literary works?) -” These books are often set in modern times or a timeless setting, so readers can connect with them.” (Teen Book Sleuth: Realistic Fiction)

Are there genres that contain both of the elements of nonfiction and realistic fiction? -There are genres that could be interpreted as having characteristics of both genres. -Semi fiction is one of the few that contain these elements. “fiction implementing a great deal of non-fiction for example a fictional depiction based on a true story.” (Wikipedia: fiction) -Semi fiction make good movies, they combine not only these two genres but many others. “…the filmmakers boldly move back and forth between these genres to create something they have called both semi-documentary and semi-fiction.” (George 24)

What kind of real things are used in realistic fiction books? -Real people, places, ideas, events, or dates are used throughout realistic fiction books. “I called Bernie from a phone inside the Salt Lake City station.” (Weeks 116) -The concept “based on a true story” is used loosely but basically means that its based on true events but the facts aren’t exact or straight. -Using certain conflicts, authors often draw the reader into the story and somewhat resemble real life conflicts but are also exaggerated to some extent. “’Man-oh-man, I know she will. You screwed things up!’ ‘I didn’t screw anything up!’” (Wolfson 204)

What makes realistic fiction more appealing than nonfiction? -Nonfiction gives real facts about life, people, or things. -Realistic fiction gives an imaginary aspect to reality which provides an escape for the reader. -Authors tend to use characteristics of nonfiction to make the story a little more interesting “I cannot have any peace. I am forced out of my own home because of the high loon count.” (Renninson 103). -“I find both really enjoyable. I tend to go read a lot of nonfiction, and then get burned out on it and want to escape reality and then go on a fiction binge” (enotes.com martinjmurphy)