I recently came across an enlightening article by Heather Murphy Capps, my favorite author of middle grade fiction. In it, she describes why she used magical realism to navigate the difficult issues of social justice, inherited trauma, and bullying in her recently published novel, “The Rule of Three.” In her introduction, she clarifies a common misconception about the style…
“Magical realism is often mischaracterized, so I want to be clear. We’re not talking fantastical or supernatural beings whose otherworldliness drives the plot. We’re also not talking about speculative fiction, with hallmarks of fantasy or alternative realities.”
…and goes on to encapsulate its core and the value it offers for reaching her audience:
“Magical realism imagines stories about real people and places, layered with a few magical elements—the key difference being that the magical elements are mostly a normal part of life. But this small amount of magic is powerful—because its existence makes tough topics palatable by creating distance, forming a protective buffer between young readers and what could be overwhelming subject matter.”
Click on the title below to read the entire article.
The Plot Thickens 