16 Acclaimed Realistic Fiction Novels to Read When You Need an Escape

Genres such as fantasy and sci-fi are popular for their ability to tap into our imaginations and stretch our minds to the edge of the galaxy. Other novels can have different effects: A great mystery will keep you turning pages for hours while a suspense novel may leave you with lasting night terrors. But realistic fiction, which offers a “slice of life,” is perfect for those who are firmly grounded in reality. The below novels touch on widely varying snapshots of the human experience in ways so real that you won't believe they're fiction.