How can one tell if a book is realistic or historical fiction?

To distinguish between realistic fiction and nonfiction, consider the purpose of the writing. Nonfiction is mainly to inform, educate, or document real - life occurrences. So, if you find a lot of footnotes, references, or it reads like a report or a study, it's nonfiction. Realistic fiction, on the other hand, is meant to entertain and engage through fictional stories that mimic real - life situations. The story elements in realistic fiction are often crafted to create an emotional response in the reader, rather than just convey facts as in nonfiction.

Look at the cover and blurb. If it says it's a true story or is about a real person or event, it's likely nonfiction. If it has a made - up - sounding title and a summary that seems like a fictional story that could happen in real life, it's probably realistic fiction.

Look at the narrative style. Historical fiction often has a more story - like flow, with a plot that has a beginning, middle, and end, like a novel. It may use dialogue to drive the story forward. Nonfiction usually has a more matter - of - fact tone. It might present information in a chronological order or by topic. For example, if it reads like a story about a girl living during the Civil War but some details seem made - up, it's probably historical fiction; if it's a dry account of the battles and political events of the Civil War, it's nonfiction.

One way is to look at the characters and their experiences. If they seem like real people facing real-life problems and situations, it could be realistic fiction.

It is historical fiction. The story is set during World War II in Germany, a specific historical period. It weaves together fictional characters and events within the framework of real historical events like the bombing of Munich, the persecution of Jews, etc. It gives a vivid picture of that era from the perspective of a young girl, Liesel. Although the characters are fictional, they are used to explore and represent the real experiences and emotions of people during that time.

Look at the setting. If it's in a completely made - up world like Middle - earth in 'The Lord of the Rings' (which is fiction), it's not realistic fiction. But if it's set in a real - life city like New York and the events seem like they could happen in our world, it's likely realistic fiction.

Look at the time setting. If it's in the past, it's likely historical fiction; if it's the present, it's probably realistic fiction.

Look at the cover and blurb. If the cover shows modern - day settings like skyscrapers or people in contemporary clothes, and the blurb mentions current - day issues, it's likely realistic fiction. If there are historical elements like old - fashioned costumes or historical buildings on the cover, and the blurb refers to a past time period, it's probably historical fiction.

To write a good realistic fiction book, start with a strong concept. It could be based on a real - world issue like poverty or discrimination. Then, do in - depth research. If your story is set in a particular time period, learn about the culture, technology, and politics of that time. Develop your characters fully. Make them complex and multi - dimensional. Their actions should be driven by their personalities. Also, use vivid descriptions of the settings to make the story more immersive. Write in a style that is engaging and easy to understand for the readers.

The plot should deal with real - life situations. Things like going to school, having a job, or dealing with family members are common in realistic fiction. If the plot involves things like magic or superpowers, it's probably not this genre. Also, the writing style should be straightforward and not overly flowery. It should feel like someone is simply telling a story about real life.