• It is good fiction first
• Strong characters, fully developed and intriguing. Human element: characters have foibles and are empathetic.
• Strong plot
• Well developed setting that brings the time period to life without being too lecture-y
• Clothing, food, habits, speech, technology, what the land is like, specific objects (material culture)
• Has a clear voice and point of view
• Avoids stereotypes and myths
• Connects to other parts of history
• The historical part of the story is presented as multi-dimensional
• Setting is apparent and accurate
• Facts are used to enhance the story (not overwhelm it). They establish human and social circumstances.
• Accurate and artful illustrations add historical detail (clothing, architecture, environment)
• Historically accurate
• Helps reader to consider the present and look forward to the future.

References

• Blos, Joan W. "Perspectives on Historical Fiction." In Michael O. Tunnell & Richard Ammon (Eds.) The Story of Ourselves: Teachign History Through Children's Literature. Portsmouth, NH: Heinemann.
• Lindquist, Tarry. Why and How I Teach Historical Fiction. Instructor.