Realistic Fiction Books:

Realistic fiction books are typically the books that I spent time with in school or have received from my mother.

They are not typically the style I write or pursue to sate my literary lust.  If I had to pick a handful of realistic fiction books the majority would probably be in the Historical Fiction subgenera.  Most of the time when I am reading for pleasure the subjects chosen are fantastic.  The way I see it when I am reading for a new world, I rarely want to pick up a book that is going to highlight ongoing angst about heavy subjects like poverty, and race relations, or to relive adolescent troubles.

Give me a nice swords & shields while out trouncing monsters book, or a pew-pewing narrated alien hordes audiobook.

Because I like a pretty narrow subgenera of realistic fiction my PERSONAL Doug Franklin picks, which I have READ COVER TO COVER, vary from the more professional curated lists.  The Doug Franklin Realistic Fiction book picks are:

1. The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas
2. The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck
3. Dog Company Six by Edwin Howard Simmons
4. The Red Badge of Courage, by Stephen Crane
5. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

Runner Up Realistic Fiction:

One fun book I came across while looking through this topic was Diary Of A Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney.  My son LOVED these books!  He devoured them in his free time on summer visits.

I did not read them but we have at least four or five on his bookshelf!

What are realistic fiction books?

Realistic fiction books are stories that could plausibly happen in the real world. These stories typically feature characters, settings, and plots that are believable and relatable to readers.  Realistic fiction encompasses a wide range of topics and themes.  But it is generally characterized by its focus on everyday life, addressing the challenges and triumphs of ordinary people.

Here are some of the most popular and well-respected realistic fiction books:

• To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee:

  This classic coming-of-age novel tells the story of Scout Finch, a young girl growing up in Alabama during the 1930s. The novel explores themes of racial injustice, prejudice, and compassion.

• The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger:

  This novel follows Holden Caulfield, a cynical and disillusioned teenager who has been expelled from boarding school. The novel explores themes of alienation, adolescence, and the search for meaning.

• The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck:

  This novel tells the story of the Joad family, who are forced to leave their Oklahoma farm during the Dust Bowl and migrate to California in search of a better life. The novel explores themes of poverty, migration, and the resilience of the human spirit.

• The Color Purple by Alice Walker:

  This novel follows Celie Johnson, a young African-American woman who is forced to endure years of abuse and hardship. The novel explores themes of racism, sexism, and the power of female friendship.

• One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel García Márquez:

  This novel tells the story of the Buendía family, who lived for seven generations in the fictional town of Macondo. The novel explores themes of love, loss, and the cyclical nature of history.

• The House of the Spirit by Isabel Allende:

  This novel tells the story of four generations of women in the Bellavista family, who live through political upheaval and personal tragedy in Chile. The novel explores themes of love, loss, and resilience.

• The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas:

  This novel tells the story of Starr Carter, a young African-American girl who witnesses the police shooting of her unarmed friend. The novel explores themes of racial injustice, activism, and the importance of speaking out against injustice.

• Wonder by R.J. Palacio:

  This novel tells the story of August Pullman, a boy with Treacher Collins syndrome who enters a new school. The novel explores themes of bullying, friendship, and acceptance.

• The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie:

  This novel tells the story of Junior, a Native American boy who moves from the reservation to an all-white school. The novel explores themes of identity, prejudice, and the importance of family and culture.

• The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky:

  This novel tells the story of Charlie, a shy freshman who befriends two seniors and experiences the joys and challenges of adolescence. The novel explores themes of friendship, love, and growing up.

These are just a few of the many great realistic fiction books that have been written. With its focus on everyday life and the challenges and triumphs of ordinary people, realistic fiction offers readers a window into the human experience.

What is an example of realistic fiction?

Realistic fiction is a genre of literature that portrays characters, settings, and events that could plausibly happen in the real world. These stories typically focus on the everyday lives of ordinary people, exploring their challenges, triumphs, and relationships. Realistic fiction aims to provide readers with a relatable and authentic view of the human experience.

One notable example of realistic fiction is “The Diary of a Wimpy Kid” series by Jeff Kinney. The series follows the misadventures of Greg Heffley, a middle-school student who navigates the complexities of friendships, schoolwork, family dynamics, and social expectations. Greg’s relatable struggles and humorous observations resonate with readers of all ages, making the series a global bestseller.

“The Diary of a Wimpy Kid” effectively captures the essence of realistic fiction through its relatable characters, everyday settings, and believable plotlines. Greg Heffley is a flawed but likable protagonist, embodying the awkwardness and insecurities that many young people experience. The story unfolds in familiar environments like school, home, and the neighborhood, adding to the sense of authenticity.

The events depicted in the series, while exaggerated for comedic effect, are grounded in the realities of middle school life. Greg’s struggles with homework, bullies, and social acceptance are relatable to readers who have faced similar challenges. The series also explores themes of family dynamics, friendship, and self-discovery, adding depth and relatability to the narrative.

Through its humor, relatability, and authentic portrayal of everyday life, “The Diary of a Wimpy Kid” stands as a prime example of realistic fiction. The series has captivated readers worldwide, demonstrating the power of realistic fiction to connect with readers on a personal level.

What Are The Main Subgenera of Realistic Fiction?

Realistic fiction is a broad genre of literature that encompasses stories that could plausibly happen in the real world. These stories typically feature characters, settings, and plots that are believable and relatable to readers. While realistic fiction can encompass a wide range of topics and themes, there are a few main subgenres that are commonly recognized:

Coming-of-age:

These stories focus on the protagonist’s journey from childhood to adulthood, exploring the challenges and triumphs of growing up. Some well-known examples of coming-of-age stories include To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee and The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger.

Historical fiction:

These stories are set in the past, but they are still considered realistic fiction because they portray historical events and figures in a believable way. Some famous historical fiction novels include The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett and Outlander by Diana Gabaldon.

Social realism:

These stories focus on social and economic issues, often depicting the lives of marginalized or disadvantaged characters. Some notable examples of social realism novels include The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck and The Color Purple by Alice Walker.

Magical realism:

This subgenre combines elements of realistic fiction with magical or fantastical elements.  The magical elements explore themes of love, loss, and identity. Some famous magical realism novels include One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel García Márquez and The House of the Spirit by Isabel Allende.

In addition to these main subgenres, there are many other subgenres of realistic fiction, such as Bildungsroman, slice of life, and family saga. These subgenres all share the common goal of portraying realistic and relatable characters and situations.

Famous Realistic Fiction Book Examples In the Main Subgeneras:

Sure, here are some famous realistic fiction book examples in the main subgenera:

Coming-of-Age

• To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee (1960) is a classic coming-of-age story that tells the story of Scout Finch, a young girl growing up in Alabama during the 1930s. The novel explores themes of racial injustice, prejudice, and compassion.
• The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger’s 1951 classic coming-of-age story follows Holden Caulfield, a cynical and disillusioned teenager who has been expelled from boarding school. The novel explores themes of alienation, adolescence, and the search for meaning.

Historical Fiction

• The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett (1989) is a historical novel set in 12th-century England that tells the story of the construction of a cathedral. The novel explores themes of love, loss, and ambition.
• Outlander by Diana Gabaldon (1991) is a historical fiction novel set in 18th-century Scotland that tells the story of Claire Randall, a nurse who travels back in time to the Scottish Highlands. The novel explores themes of love, war, and history.

Social Realism

• The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck (1939) is a social realism novel that tells the story of the Joad family, who are forced to leave their Oklahoma farm during the Dust Bowl and migrate to California in search of a better life. The novel explores themes of poverty, migration, and the resilience of the human spirit.
• The Color Purple by Alice Walker (1982) is a social realism novel that follows Celie Johnson, a young African-American woman who is forced to endure years of abuse and hardship. The novel explores themes of racism, sexism, and the power of female friendship.

Magical Realism

• One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel García Márquez (1967) is a magical realism novel that tells the story of the Buendía family, who lived for seven generations in the fictional town of Macondo. The novel explores themes of love, loss, and the cyclical nature of history.
• The House of the Spirit by Isabel Allende (1982) is a magical realism novel that tells the story of four generations of women in the Bellavista family, who live through political upheaval and personal tragedy in Chile. The novel explores themes of love, loss, and resilience.

These are just a few examples of the many great realistic fiction books that have been written. Realistic fiction is a versatile genre that can explore a wide range of topics and themes, and it has the power to connect with readers on a personal level.

What Are The Highest Rated Realist Novels?

The top 10 highest customer-rated realist novels by customer reviews on Goodreads:

• To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee (1960) – 4.31 average rating, based on 2,841,178 ratings
  

  To Kill a Mockingbird book
• The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck (1939) – 4.29 average rating, based on 1,312,460 ratings
  

  Grapes of Wrath book
• One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel García Márquez (1967) – 4.27 average rating, based on 918,788 ratings
  

  One Hundred Years of Solitude book
• The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger (1951) – 4.18 average rating, based on 1,197,629 ratings
  

  Catcher in the Rye book
• Beloved by Toni Morrison (1987) – 4.20 average rating, based on 531,465 ratings
  

  Beloved book
• The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood (1985) – 4.15 average rating, based on 585,112 ratings
  

  Handmaid’s Tale book
• The Color Purple by Alice Walker (1982) – 4.16 average rating, based on 305,756 ratings
  

  Color Purple book
• The Remains of the Day by Kazuo Ishiguro (1989) – 4.07 average rating, based on 409,260 ratings
  

  Remains of the Day book
• The Road by Cormac McCarthy (2006) – 4.04 average rating, based on 1,319,421 ratings
  

  Road book
• The House of the Spirit by Isabel Allende (1982) – 4.10 average rating, based on 248,770 ratings
  

  House of the Spirit book

These novels are praised for their realistic portrayal of characters and situations.  Their exploration of important social and historical themes, and their beautiful and evocative writing.  They are all must-reads for anyone interested in the genre of realistic fiction.

What Is A Tragic Realistic Fiction Novel?

Tragic realistic fiction novels delve into the depths of human suffering, exploring the devastating consequences of loss, betrayal, and circumstance. These stories often feature flawed and relatable protagonists who grapple with life’s harsh realities, their struggles mirroring the trials and tribulations faced by ordinary people. The tragic elements in these novels serve not to merely shock or depress the reader, but rather to illuminate the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of hope amidst despair.

To Kill a Mockingbird

One prime example of a tragic realistic fiction novel is Harper Lee’s Pulitzer Prize-winning masterpiece, “To Kill a Mockingbird.” Set in the racially charged South of the 1930s, the novel follows Scout Finch, a young girl growing up amidst prejudice and injustice. The story’s tragic climax, the trial of Tom Robinson, an innocent black man falsely accused of assaulting a white woman, exposes the deep-rooted racism that permeates society, leaving a profound impact on Scout’s understanding of the world.

The Grapes of Wrath

Another poignant example of the genre is John Steinbeck’s “The Grapes of Wrath,” which chronicles the harrowing journey of the Joad family as they flee the Dust Bowl during the Great Depression. The novel’s tragic elements serve as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of economic hardship and societal neglect, highlighting the plight of those marginalized by forces beyond their control.

Beloved

In Toni Morrison’s “Beloved,” the tragic experiences of Sethe, an escaped slave haunted by the ghost of her murdered child, underscore the enduring trauma of slavery and the struggle for freedom. The novel’s tragic undertones serve as a powerful indictment of the institution of slavery and its lasting impact on generations of African Americans.

Tragic realistic fiction novels often employ elements of coming-of-age, as the protagonists’ encounters with tragedy serve as catalysts for personal growth and transformation. Through their experiences, the characters confront the fragility of life, the inevitability of loss, and the importance of compassion and understanding.

The tragic elements in these novels also serve to underscore the resilience of the human spirit, demonstrating the ability to find meaning and hope even in the face of profound adversity. Despite the hardships they endure, the characters persevere, seeking solace in love, friendship, and the pursuit of justice.

Tragic realistic fiction novels offer readers a profound exploration of human nature and the complexities of life. They challenge us to confront uncomfortable truths, to empathize with the suffering of others, and to appreciate the enduring power of the human spirit.

Best Realistic Fiction Books of All Time

Here are five of the most critically acclaimed realistic fiction books of all time:

1. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee (1960)

This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel tells the story of Scout Finch, a young girl growing up in Alabama during the 1930s. The novel explores themes of racial injustice, prejudice, and compassion, and is considered one of the greatest American novels ever written.

2. The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck (1939)

This novel tells the story of the Joad family, who are forced to leave their Oklahoma farm during the Dust Bowl and migrate to California in search of a better life. The novel explores themes of poverty, migration, and the resilience of the human spirit, and is considered one of the most important works of American literature.

3. Beloved by Toni Morrison (1987)

This novel tells the story of Sethe, an escaped slave who is haunted by the ghost of her murdered child. The novel explores themes of slavery, memory, and the power of love, and is considered one of the most important works of African-American literature.

4. The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger (1951)

This novel tells the story of Holden Caulfield, a cynical and disillusioned teenager who has been expelled from boarding school. The novel explores themes of alienation, adolescence, and the search for meaning.  It is considered one of the most influential novels of the 20th century.

5. One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel García Márquez (1967)

This novel tells the story of the Buendía family, who lived for seven generations in the fictional town of Macondo. The novel explores themes of love, loss, and the cyclical nature of history, and is considered one of the most important works of magical realism.

These five novels are all considered to be classics of realistic fiction, and they have all been praised for their realistic portrayal of characters and situations, their exploration of important social and historical themes, and their beautiful and evocative writing. They are all must-reads for anyone interested in the genre of realistic fiction.

Best Realistic Science Fiction Books:

Here are some of the best realistic science fiction books, capturing the essence of the genre with its focus on believable characters, plausible settings, and scientific concepts that ground the narrative in reality:

1. The Martian by Andy Weir (2011):

   

   Martian book

I have The Martian in both an Audible book and movie form.

An astronaut stranded on Mars must use his ingenuity and resourcefulness to survive until he can be rescued. This captivating story blends scientific accuracy with suspenseful storytelling, making it a captivating read for both science fiction enthusiasts and general audiences alike.

2. Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir (2021):

   

   Project Hail Mary book

A scientist wakes up on a spaceship with no memory of who he is or how he got there. He soon discovers that he is on a mission to save humanity from an alien threat. This thrilling sequel to “The Martian” delves into the depths of space exploration and the nature of consciousness.

3. The Andromeda Strain by Michael Crichton (1969):

   

   Andromeda Strain book

I read this many years ago, and for the life of me can not remember where the book is.  It has also been years since I saw the movie.

A deadly extraterrestrial microbe crash-lands in Arizona, and a team of scientists must race against time to prevent a global catastrophe. This thought-provoking novel explores the potential dangers of space exploration and the fragility of life on Earth.

4. The Left Hand of Darkness by Ursula K. Le Guin (1969):

   

   Left Hand of Darkness book

Earth sent an envoy to a frigid, inhospitable planet to prevent an interplanetary war. This groundbreaking novel explores themes of gender, identity, and cultural diversity in a captivating science fiction setting.

5. Red Mars by Kim Stanley Robinson (1996):

   

   Red Mars book

The first humans to colonize Mars must grapple with scientific challenges, ethical dilemmas, and political conflicts as they establish a new home for humanity. This ambitious trilogy delves into the potential realities of human settlement on Mars, raising thought-provoking questions about the future of our species.

6. Children of Men by P.D. James (1992):

   

   Children of Men book

In a dystopian future where humanity is on the brink of extinction, a weary bureaucrat is tasked with finding the last woman who can bear a child. This haunting novel explores themes of infertility, hope, and the resilience of the human spirit in a world on the verge of collapse.

7. The Three-Body Problem by Cixin Liu (2006):

   

   ThreeBody Problem book

During China’s Cultural Revolution, a young astrophysics student witnesses a mysterious signal from outer space. Decades later, she is at the forefront of humanity’s response to an impending alien invasion. This thought-provoking novel blends hard science fiction with Chinese history and culture, offering a unique perspective on the genre.

8. The Sparrow by Mary Doria Russell (1996):

   

   Sparrow book

A group of Jesuit priests and scientists embark on a mission to evangelize an alien planet, but their encounter with a highly intelligent species has unforeseen consequences. This captivating novel explores themes of faith, science, and the ethics of extraterrestrial contact.

9. The Mote in God’s Eye by Larry Niven and Jerry Pournelle (1974):

   

   Mote in God’s Eye book

Humans from Earth encounter a technologically advanced alien civilization on a distant planet, but cultural misunderstandings and political tensions threaten to escalate into conflict. This thought-provoking novel explores the challenges of interstellar diplomacy and the dangers of unchecked human ambition.

10. Ender’s Game by Orson Scott Card (1985):

    

    Ender’s Game book

Ender’s Game is one of my favorite books, and I have it on audible and as a paperback.

A brilliant but troubled young boy is trained to command Earth’s fleet in a desperate war against an alien species. This classic science fiction novel delves into the complexities of human nature, leadership, and the ethics of warfare.

Best Realistic Fantasy Books:

Realistic fantasy books blend elements of fantasy with realistic settings and characters, creating a captivating blend of magic and relatability. Here are some of the best realistic fantasy books that offer a unique and immersive reading experience:

1. Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell by Susanna Clarke (2004):

   

   Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell book

Set during the Napoleonic Wars, this enchanting novel follows the rivalry between two magicians, Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell, as they attempt to restore magic to England. With its meticulous historical setting and captivating blend of fantasy and reality, Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and fantasy alike.

2. A Wizard of Earthsea by Ursula K. Le Guin (1968):

   

   Wizard of Earthsea book

On the archipelago of Earthsea, young wizard Ged struggles to master his magical powers and overcome his inner demons. Le Guin’s classic coming-of-age story explores themes of power, responsibility, and the balance between light and darkness, making it a timeless and profound read.

3. The Ocean at the End of the Lane by Neil Gaiman (2013):

   

   Ocean at the End of the Lane book

A man’s childhood memories resurface as he travels to his old home, leading him down a path of magic and mystery. Gaiman’s captivating blend of realism and fantasy creates an otherworldly atmosphere that will linger long after the final page.

4. The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern (2011):

   

   Night Circus book

In a hidden world, two young magicians are pitted against each other in a deadly competition. Morgenstern’s lyrical prose and enchanting world-building transport readers to a realm of magic, mystery, and unspoken love.

5. The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater (2012):

   

   Raven Boys book

Blue Sargent, a girl who can see dead people, becomes entangled with a group of boys who are searching for the mythical Welsh king Glendower. Stiefvater’s captivating blend of mystery, mythology, and contemporary fiction will keep readers guessing until the very end.

6. Howl’s Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones (1986):

   

   Howl’s Moving Castle book

In the kingdom of Ingary, a young woman named Sophie is transformed into an old lady by a witch and seeks refuge in the magical moving castle of the enigmatic wizard Howl. Jones’s imaginative tale blends elements of fairy tale, fantasy, and humor, making it a delightful read for all ages.

7. The House of the Scorpion by Nancy Farmer (2002):

   

   House of the Scorpion book

Matt, a young clone of a drug lord, is raised in isolation until he is sent to live with a wealthy family in Arizona. Farmer’s thought-provoking novel explores themes of identity, genetic engineering, and the importance of family.

8. The Book of Dust trilogy by Philip Pullman (2007-2020):

   

   Book of Dust trilogy book

Following in the footsteps of His Dark Materials, this trilogy takes readers back to Lyra Belacqua’s world as she embarks on a new adventure. Pullman’s captivating storytelling and exploration of complex themes make this trilogy a must-read for fantasy fans of all ages.

9. The Wayward Children series by Seanan McGuire (2015-present):

   

   Wayward Children series book

After spending time in magical realms, a group of children must adjust to life back in the ordinary world. McGuire’s enchanting series explores themes of loss, belonging, and the power of friendship, making it a relatable and heartwarming read.

10. The Starless Sea by Erin Morgenstern (2019):

    

    Starless Sea book

Zachary Ezra Rawlins, a graduate student, stumbles upon a mysterious book that leads him on a quest to uncover the secrets of a hidden world. Morgenstern’s enchanting novel blends elements of fantasy, mystery, and literary adventure, creating a captivating and thought-provoking read.

Realistic Fiction Books For Young Adults:

Realistic fiction books for young adults offer a relatable and engaging way for teens to explore the complexities of adolescence, social issues, and the challenges of growing up. These stories often feature characters who grapple with everyday struggles, personal dilemmas, and the ups and downs of friendship, family, and school life. Here are some of the best realistic fiction books for young adults:

• The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky (1999)

  

  Perks of Being a Wallflower book

This coming-of-age novel follows Charlie, a shy freshman who befriends two seniors and experiences the joys and challenges of adolescence. The novel explores themes of friendship, love, and the search for meaning.

• Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson (1999)

  

  Speak book

Melinda Sordino, a high school sophomore, is ostracized by her classmates after being falsely accused of spreading a rumor. The novel follows Melinda’s journey to find her voice and reclaim her identity.

• Looking for Alaska by John Green (2005)

  

  Looking for Alaska book

Miles Halter, a quiet teenager, leaves his Florida home to attend boarding school in Alabama. There, he befriends Alaska Young, a charismatic and enigmatic girl who introduces him to a world of new experiences and challenges their perceptions of life.

• Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell (2013)

  

  Eleanor & Park book

Set in the 1980s, this novel follows Eleanor and Park, two misfits who find solace and connection in each other’s company. The novel explores themes of love, acceptance, and the challenges of finding your place in the world.

• The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas (2017)

  

  Hate U Give book

Starr Carter, a young African-American girl, witnesses the police shooting of her unarmed friend. The novel follows Starr as she navigates the complexities of race, prejudice, and activism in her community.

• The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie (1996)

  

  Absolutely True Diary of a PartTime Indian book

Junior, a Native American boy, leaves the reservation to attend an all-white school. The novel follows Junior’s experiences with prejudice, culture shock, and the search for belonging.

• Five Feet Apart by Rachael Lippincott (2018)

  

  Five Feet Apart book

Stella Grant and Will Newman, two teenagers with cystic fibrosis, fall in love despite the six-foot distance they must maintain to avoid cross-infection. The novel explores themes of love, loss, and living with a chronic illness.

• Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda by Becky Albertalli (2015)

  

  Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda book

Simon Spier is a closeted gay teenager blackmailed into revealing his secret. The novel follows Simon’s journey to come to terms with his identity and find acceptance from his friends and family.

• The Sun Is Also a Star by Nicola Yoon (2016)

  

  Sun Is Also a Star book

Natasha, a Jamaican-American girl, meets Daniel, a Korean-American boy, in New York City. The novel follows their spontaneous connection and the challenges they face as they explore their feelings for each other.

• I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter by Erika L. Sánchez (2017)

  

  I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter book

Julia Reyes, a Mexican-American teenager, struggles to live up to her family’s expectations. The novel follows Julia’s journey to find her own identity and break free from the pressures of conformity.

These are just a few examples of the many great realistic fiction books for young adults. With their relatable characters, engaging storylines, and exploration of important social issues, these books offer a valuable window into the lives of teens today.