In this chapter you will:

• Read the text's definition of realistic fiction.
• Learn five values that realistic fiction offers children.
• Contrast the differences between treatment of graphic realism in television and in books.
• Read Giblin's criteria regarding violence.
• Learn why the reading of "problem books" should be balanced with other books.
• Read guidelines for evaluating books on physical disabilities.
• Learn "Guidelines for Evaluating Minority Literature."
• Find the value of children reading popular fiction when it is not high-quality literature.
• Identify some criteria for evaluating popular realistic fiction.