Searching for Realistic Fiction

Searching for Realistic Fiction in the catalog is one of more challenging genres; the realism related to situations and circumstances is often personal to, and reliant on, the reader and author.  When reviewing library catalog entries, it is not unusual to see a large number of subject headings with fiction, it is a general rule to assign as many as needed to fully describe or inform about the book topic. This is especially true for realistic or contemporary fiction.

For example, Dear Justyce, featured with the realistic fiction titles on this page (see right), lists Detention Homes juvenile fiction, Dysfunctional Families juvenile fiction, and Best Friends juvenile fiction, as well as the broader subject of Young Adult Fiction.  

Subject Term Basics

There are a few suggested subject terms to help you get started with your search.  Note that results are limited; starting with juvenile fiction or young adult fiction and reviewing titles according to your area of interest may be the best option.

Domestic Fiction (limit to juvenile)

Realistic Fiction juvenile

Contemporary Realistic Fiction

What does it mean?

When looking for realistic fiction, begin with a keyword or subject search.

How? Start with the library catalog and conduct a keyword search.

(1) Enter your topic,

(2) Limit the location option to MAIN Juvenile, then

(3) Submit the search & review your results.

Evaluate your selection

Use the catalog record to help evaluate search results.

(1) Additional subject terms may include contemporary or domestic fiction, or young adult fiction.

(2) Use Content Café, click on the book cover image, to view additional information about the title.

(3) Click on catalog subject headings and/or genres to explore similar items.

(4) Read a chapter or passage in the book to determine if it meets the criteria for realistic fiction.