Reflections

Realistic Fiction 

Realistic fiction includes literature that is believable. It is also referred to as contemporary realistic fiction in which the story takes place in the real world. The story is based on realistic characters, situations, and environments. While looking for realistic fiction material to add to a collection one must consider literature that does not stereotype. Content must reflect the contemporary world we live in. For instance, in Lily and Dunkin by Donna Gephar one can see how the main characters are deviating from following gender roles imposed by society.

We live in a time in which we have to encourage the young to be themselves, show empathy towards others, and to follow the beat of their own drum. Society will try to impose their ideas and thoughts. For example, in the book mentioned above one the main characters, Dunkin, feels as though to fit in with the other guys and be popular he must be on the basketball team. The characters within realistic fiction are honest and true to real life situations that people may encounter.

The theme of realistic fiction should be introduced naturally. Story must flow with ease while introducing the main points. The story may contain several themes as long as they emerge slowly and constantly. In Lilly and Dunkin one can see how this story reveals its theme slowly. Each character has its own storyline in a way, though they intertwine throughout the story. Realistic fiction has to keep up with modern times. Books should be based on tough topics like loss, death, family struggles, and sexuality. For instance, the book mentioned above shows its characters facing scrutiny for their sexual identity and emotional situations.

 Nonfiction 

Nonfiction literature can be a very broad genre. When selecting books one must look into the author and his/her qualifications. Researching the author’s backgrounds and looking through their websites is a good way to get an idea of the type of work they create. Reading the author’s note is also a way to check up on the facts that were given. The purpose must be clear and organized in an easy form to access information. For instance, in It’s perfectly Normal: Changing Bodies, Growing Up, Sex, and Sexual Health one can see how the author Robie Harris has done his background research on the topic.

The book even includes visuals that point out parts of the human anatomy. Books such as this would fall under this category.  I grew up in a very conservative household that I wish I could have come upon books like the one mentioned. I had so many unanswered questions that I was not allowed to ask or talk about. All these nonfiction books contain facts that can help in research and expand student learning.

Just like me there are others that are seeking information that they might not have the courage to ask. One must be aware of the many types of students we have and be able to provide multiple resources. The questions given to use as a guidelines for finding the proper nonfiction literature are very useful.

Science Fiction

After hearing the video I now have my new reading list. There are all types of science fiction books such as apocalyptic, steam punk, cyber punk, dystopia, space alien extraterrestrial, and time traveler stories. There were several books that I have read that were mentioned like The Hunger Games, The Fifth Wave, and the Divergent series. I liked this subgenre for they sort of intertwined with one another. The Hunger Games for instance, can be considered dystopia and post apocalyptical. The people in this story are oppressed by government without having a voice and are constantly monitored. The setting takes place after a catastrophic event.

These categories of science fiction assist in looking for right books to add to a collection. Students I have seen love fiction though the setting and content are important for the reader to be engaged and come back for more reading material. For example, I am not much of a steam punk junkie. I really am not intrigued in reading material regarding how steam power revolutionized life. Though, now reflecting on the types of science fiction categories I can see how I lean more towards apocalyptical and dystopia. Everyone their own interests and fiction being so broad it is good to look into the many subcategories to find material for all types of students. 

Though, even though I might be more inclined to certain subcategories an array of good books should be part of collection. One must look into the criteria for evaluating these types of books. Characters must behave in believable ways. In the Hunger Games the main characters rebellion begins due to the government trying to place someone she cared about in harms way. The world in which the story takes place must contain rules. Like in the Divergent series the characters were sectioned of into factions that all had their own responsibilities and roles to play. The main idea of the story must as well a truth that all agree with.

 Graphic Novels

Graphic novels are considered to be a format so in turn they can range from nonfiction to fantasy and everything in between. Though, they are not a prevalent reading material, but are increasing in popularity. This type of book resembles a novel in length and written in a comic format. They provide the reader visuals along with the text. The panels inside the book contain scenes of the story. Unlike many other types of books graphic novels are set apart by their extensive art work.

After reflecting on this type of format I can see how it has many positive aspects. I teach science in which all students are mainstreamed into my classes. I have learned the value of visuals in my students understanding the concepts that I am teaching. I believe that graphic novels are a great source for students with special needs. The influx of visuals accompanied with text allows them to grasp the context better.

I have read a few graphic novels. Even though, they are not my favorite I can see how beneficial they can be in teaching students. For instance, in author Raina Telgemeier graphic novel books one can see the emotion of the characters, their actions, and the environment in which they are in. These books are a great way to teach mood and tone. Many students appreciate the art work that is shown in graphic novel and helps them comprehend the topic. Promoting graphic novels amongst students can help them become more popular to be read for enjoyment.