Picture Book Genres: Realistic Fiction
While genres become more of an interest as kids become independent readers, I love the idea of sharing picture books that can also fall into genres as well. And maybe your young readers don’t have a strong opinion about the genres they read, I think exposing them to a wide-variety of genres early, allows kids to learn more about the book world and what they might like. I think it also allows kids to better appreciate just how many options exist! I say the same thing about ensuring kids have a chance to experience both nonfiction text as well as poetry. There is something for every reader, it’s often that kids don’t become readers because they haven’t yet found the book that speaks to them. What if they learned more about the book world at a younger age to better find the right fit?
So far, I’ve shared picture books in a couple of genres including mysteries, science fiction, and fantasy but today we’re focused on realistic fiction picture books. Realistic fiction is another genre in picture books that you’ll find a lot of! Which makes sense, right? Kids are learning about the world around them and what better way to prepare than to read a book about the experience. Realistic fiction focuses on new experiences, feelings, emotions, and learning to understand the world around you. So the next time your child is about to experience something new, why not trying reading a book or two to help them understand what to expect!
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Picture Book Genres: Realistic Fiction
Crown: An Ode to the Fresh Cut by Derrick Barnes, illustrated by Gordon C. James
The barbershop is where the magic happens. Boys go in as lumps of clay and, with princely robes draped around their shoulders, a dab of cool shaving cream on their foreheads, and a slow, steady cut, they become royalty. That crisp yet subtle line makes boys sharper, more visible, more aware of every great thing that could happen to them when they look good: lesser grades turn into As; girls take notice; even a mother’s hug gets a little tighter. Everyone notices.
A fresh cut makes boys fly.
This rhythmic, read-aloud title is an unbridled celebration of the self-esteem, confidence, and swagger boys feel when they leave the barber’s chair—a tradition that places on their heads a figurative crown, beaming with jewels, that confirms their brilliance and worth and helps them not only love and accept themselves but also take a giant step toward caring how they present themselves to the world. The fresh cuts. That’s where it all begins.
Hiking Day by Anne Rockwell, illustrated by Lizzy Rockwell
A young girl and her family go hiking up a nearby mountain for the very first time. As they climb up and up the path, they see everything from a friendly toad to a prickly porcupine, tall leafy trees to tiny red berries. Anne Rockwell and her daughter, artist Lizzy Rockwell, celebrate a day the little girl will never forget, especially when she reaches the mountain’s summit. With simple, lyrical text and bright illustrations that jump off the page, Hiking Day brings the joys of spending an afternoon outdoors to life.
Jabari Jumps by Gaia Cornwall
Jabari is definitely ready to jump off the diving board. He’s finished his swimming lessons and passed his swim test, and he’s a great jumper, so he’s not scared at all. “Looks easy,” says Jabari, watching the other kids take their turns. But when his dad squeezes his hand, Jabari squeezes back. He needs to figure out what kind of special jump to do anyway, and he should probably do some stretches before climbing up onto the diving board. In a sweetly appealing tale of overcoming your fears, Gaia Cornwall captures a moment between a patient and encouraging father and a determined little boy you can’t help but root for.
Last Stop on Market Street by Matt de la Peña, illustrated by Christian Robinson
On Sundays, CJ and his nana ride the bus across town to their stop on Market Street. But today, CJ’s not happy about it. Today, he’s wondering out loud why they have to wait in the rain and why they don’t have a car like his other friends. But it’s Nana who opens young CJ’s eyes and shows him the real beauty in the world around them—the spirit of the bustling city, the music in everyday life, and the magic of their often overlooked neighbors.
Lola at the Library by Anna McQuinn, illustrated by Rosalind Beardshaw
Every Tuesday Lola and her mommy go to the library. Lola meets her friends there. They share books and don’t have to be quiet all the time. The nice librarian tells stories. There is a big machine that buzzes Lola’s books in and out, and she can take any books she wants home with her. Lola and her mommy always stop for a treat on the way home. No wonder Lola loves the library.
This gentle story of growing with books encourages little ones to discover the joy of reading as well as getting them ready and excited to visit the library.
Me & Mama by Cozbi A. Cabrera
On a rainy day when the house smells like cinnamon and Papa and Luca are still asleep, when the clouds are wearing shadows and the wind paints the window with beads of water, I want to be everywhere Mama is.
The Proudest Blue by Ibtihaj Muhammad with S. K. Ali, illustrated by Hatem Aly
With her new backpack and light-up shoes, Faizah knows the first day of school is going to be special. It’s the start of a brand new year and, best of all, it’s her older sister Asiya’s first day of hijab–a hijab of beautiful blue fabric, like the ocean waving to the sky. But not everyone sees hijab as beautiful, and in the face of hurtful, confusing words, Faizah will find new ways to be strong.
Thank You, Omu! by Oge Mora
Everyone in the neighborhood dreams of a taste of Omu’s delicious stew! One by one, they follow their noses toward the scrumptious scent. And one by one, Omu offers a portion of her meal. Soon the pot is empty. Has she been so generous that she has nothing left for herself?
Debut author-illustrator Oge Mora brings to life a heartwarming story of sharing and community in colorful cut-paper designs as luscious as Omu’s stew, with an extra serving of love. An author’s note explains that “Omu” (pronounced AH-moo) means “queen” in the Igbo language of her parents, but growing up, she used it to mean “Grandma.” This book was inspired by the strong female role models in Oge Mora’s life.
We’re Going to the Dentist by Marion Cocklico
The Big Steps series is designed to help little ones (and their parents or carers) with new everyday experiences. In We’re Going to the Dentist, Nancy and Teddy go for a dental check-up. This novelty book with a sweet story has fun flaps to lift and mechanisms to move, as well as practical tips for parents and carers on each page, endorsed by leading Early Years Consultant, Dr. Amanda Gummer.
