This week, I am trying to figure out what is meant by historical fiction because it seems like there is no clear definition.
I tend to keep a simple definition of historical fiction which would refer to a fictional novel based on or set around historical events or a historical setting. It would have to be based on research relating to the event or period by the author and try to represent the accuracy of events or society of focus in the story.
But how recently should a historical fiction novel be set? Should it be as recent as a decade ago, twenty-five years ago or even earlier than that?
I'll confess that I will tend to go as recently as a decade ago because a novel such as 47 degrees by Justin D'Ath is based around a historical event - The Black Saturday fires of 2009. It was fifteen years ago.
Some say it is too recent but as a teacher librarian who can teach history, it is a significant event in Australian history. It is one of the deadliest natural disasters to hit our nation with 173 people killed. People will be aware of what happened on that day well into the future.
However, there are some novels where the story occurs in a specific historical setting but the plot may focus on another genre such as fantasy or romance without in-depth study. It needs to be asked as to whether or not they are historical fiction.
