Evaluating the Narrative Authenticity of Informational Nonfiction for Children

Abstract

AbstractIn informational texts, when the identities of the narrators are inconsistent with the identities of the writers, can such text be classified as nonfiction? In this article, we examine the relationship between the writer and the narrator of informational nonfiction books in alignment with the ELA Common Core State Standards for reading in grades K – 5. We discuss a trade book series that is widely distributed and accepted as nonfiction even when the narrator’s age, ethnicity, and identities significantly differ from the writer. Specifically, we describe our approach to evaluating the “Holidays Around the World” series published by National Geographic, one of the most widely recognized and trusted brands in children’s nonfiction.