What+is+Science+Fiction?

What is Science Fiction?
Click the **Edit** button (far right side of screen) and paste your content in the space below. Make sure to **Save** changes before exiting. Posted by Mary McGuinness

The basic difference between Science Fiction and fantasy is that science fiction is plausible or at least somewhat believable. Science fiction written for young children often emphasizes the adventure associated with traveling to distant galaxies or encountering unusual aliens (Norton p. 297). Books such as //Zathura// by Chris Van Allsburg, //Man on the Moon// by Simon Bartram, //Out-Of-This-World Moon Pie Adventure// by Jimmy Zangow’s, //and Space Case// by Edward Marshall follow this description. If you were to ask young children what they think science fiction is they would say space, planets, rocketships, and aliens. According to Norton (p.297) stories for older readers often hypothesize about the future of humanity and stress problem solving in future societies. Older students are going to question, “How is our technology going to be helping us or hurting us?” Books such as //Blade Runner// by Scott Bukatman and //2001: A Space Odyssey// by Arthur C. Clarke, follow this description. Science Fiction has also been an important tool for political and social change. Science fiction writers have been able to address current issues in today’s world without worrying about causing too much controversy. Robert A. Heinlein’s //The Moon Is a Harsh Mistress// is a classic example with dealing with social and political issues.

Through the Eyes of a Child: An Introduction to Children’s Literature by Donna E. Norton, 7th ed. Pearson: NJ. 2007.