How can one distinguish between traditional and realistic fiction?

You can tell the difference by considering the plausibility of the events. In fiction, the sky's the limit for the plot. But in realistic fiction, the events should be something that could potentially occur in real life. For example, a story about a detective solving a crime using only his wits and normal investigation methods is more likely to be realistic fiction, while a detective solving a crime with the help of a mind - reading crystal would be fiction.

One way is by looking at the setting. If it's a familiar, contemporary setting like a modern city or a small town, it might be realistic fiction. If it's a made - up world like Middle - earth in 'The Lord of the Rings', it's general fiction. Another factor is the characters' abilities. If they have normal human abilities, it could be realistic fiction. If they can fly without any devices or have superpowers, it's likely general fiction.

Look at the plot. If there are elements like magic, talking animals, or gods intervening, it's likely a folktale. If the plot revolves around everyday life situations like going to work, having family arguments, or dealing with school, 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.

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.

Check the publication date. Contemporary fiction is more likely to be recently published and reflect the current times. But this isn't a foolproof method as some realistic fiction may also be new. Another way is to skim through the book. If you find a lot of references to things like smartphones, current political issues, or modern - day pop culture, it's probably contemporary fiction. Realistic fiction might have a more timeless feel to it even if it's set in a particular time period.

Look at the cover blurb. If it emphasizes the beauty of the writing, complex characters, and exploration of big ideas, it might be literary fiction. If it talks about a relatable story set in a real - world context, it could be realistic fiction.

Look at the source. If it comes from someone's real - life experiences, it's likely a personal narrative. If it's made up but seems like it could happen in real life, it's realistic fiction.

Look at the time period. If it's set in modern times or the very recent past, it's likely realistic fiction. If it's clearly in a past era like the Victorian age, it's probably historical fiction.

One way to tell is by looking at the writing style. Realistic fiction usually has a more straightforward style, while literary fiction often has a more complex and nuanced style. Also, the focus of the story can be a clue. If it's mainly about real - life situations and characters, it's likely realistic fiction. If it seems more about exploring ideas and emotions through unique writing, it's probably literary fiction.