Fantasy and Science Fiction

Fantasy and Science Fiction

Fantasy/Science Fiction are stories that violate the laws of physical reality. Science fiction is a sub genre of fantasy. Many books of science fictions blends various types of science fiction. All of science fiction falls into the fantasy genre;  however, not all fantasy is science fiction. Dr. Perry included so many titles of books to explore or refer YA to read.

*Criteria for evaluating science fiction and fantasy for children,

a. The characters behave consistently and in believable ways but there is an unusual or fantasy aspect to the storyline.

b. There are rules for the fantasy world.

c. Authors must assist readers for the fantasy world.

d. Themes should explore universal truths.

*Types of Science Fiction.

a. Apocalyptic - during a catastrophe at the end of the world.

b. Post Apocalyptic - takes place past the end of the world/catastrophe. A new civilization and usually primitive compared to modern times.

c. Steampunk, cyberpunk and biopunk - it incorporates the power of the time or setting. 

d. Dystopia - characteristics of big government, lack of freedom of choice and thought, a super head figure, corruption and resistant or overthrow of that government or establishment.

e. Extrasensory Perception - (ESP) Thought transference, telepathic and clairvoyance.

f. Robots/Androids/Cyborgs and Artificial Intelligence.

g. Space/Aliens - Extra Terrestrial.

h. Time Travel/Parallel Universe - accidental or purposeful travel through time vehicles.

i. Virtual Reality/Gaming.

j. Miscellaneous.

The science fiction/fantasy chapter opened my eyes to subgenres that I did not know were classified.  Before, I would have lumped all of science fiction together and thought of fantasy akin to the Narnia series.  I have been able to use the information from the textbook to explain to others and made connection with my son and nephew whose has a preference in science fiction/fantasy.  So many of those themes transfer over in other types of media and I am now able to identify and explain the subgenre as I am exposed to them. 

I was not familiar with science fiction because my inclination was towards realistic fiction. My dad even gave me the Narnia series and I never read them because I was not interested in premise as a child.  The more I discover science fiction/fantasy it is the characters draws the reader into is the story. The characters, theme and experiences are just as interesting as the setting or premise to the story.

I see in students a willingness to read science fiction that might not normally because of the story and strength of the characters.  Hunger Games is an example, Katniss is such a strong character that students identify with the character.  Books that have been turned into movies help nonreaders become more active in reading.   It will be interesting to see when Chaos Walking series come out in movies if it will result in as much interest as the Hunger Games series. I believe if it does then the books will become full circle with students seeking out these titles. 
So many of the popular movies, TV shows are based on books that are science fiction.  We as librarians and teachers can bridge the gap and have books that tie into science fiction and help develop readers.  The reluctant reader will benefit but also the avid reader that is willing to try out another subgenre because of the popularity of this subgenre in all types of media.

Action steps I will take:

Creating a time in my library teaching time where students will be introduced to appropriate fantasy/science fiction books.

Initiating a writing makerspace for fantasy/science fiction.

Investigating and finding those on staff that are experts in science fiction/fantasy genre.

Learning from others to make connections to further the students understanding and love for these genres.