Realistic historical fiction in children's literature, "A Boy Called Dickens" by Deborah Hopkinson

 "A Boy Called Dickens" by Deborah Hopkinson is an example of realistic historical fiction in children's literature. The story follows a fictional narrative based on real events of Charles Dickens' life, a real author and person who existed. The book tells the story of Dickens' upbringing in poverty in Victorian England and explores themes of dedication and adversity. "A Boy Called Dickens" demonstrates how Charles Dickens' love of stories and writing helped him overcome his circumstances. The illustrations in this book seem to be done in watercolor, the colors sometimes muted to assist in setting the tone of hardship and poverty that Dickens faced. They also have an element of whimsy, showing that his imagination and determination brightened what he was going through and ultimately helped him overcome his situation, and help the narrative flow. 

For ages 8-10, students can research Victorian England social classes and create a hierarchy exploring living conditions of the rich versus the poor. This would help them understand social classes and how they pertain to the storyline and real world. 

Works Cited

          Hopkinson, Deborah, and John Hendrix. A Boy Called Dickens. New York, Schwartz & Wade Books, 2012.