1. No, it is not realistic
1.1. accuracy of descriptions
1.1.1. Heartland is a work of fiction and all its characters and events are part of Darren Shiau's imagination.
1.1.2. Wing is a troubled teenager who faces the mundane problems of life and is just trying to get by without having any big or significant goal in life. Most students have a least one significant goal in life such as wanting to become a doctor, lawyer or accountant but Wing is just struggling along, he is just trying to make it through with his grades and life.
1.1.3. There are many examples of Wing not having a goal, such as Yong telling him to take up a managerial position so as to impress May and her family.
2. Key words & ideas
2.1. realistic portrayal
2.1.1. definition
2.1.1.1. realistic: given to the representation of things as they really are.
2.1.1.2. portrayal: depicting or representing
2.2. search for identity
2.2.1. ups and downs of
2.2.1.1. life as a student
2.2.1.2. being in a relationship
2.3. Singaporean
2.3.1. NS
2.3.1.1. sense of
2.3.1.1.1. loyalty
2.3.1.1.2. belonging
2.3.1.1.3. national pride
3. Yes, it is realistic.
3.1. accuracy of descriptions
3.1.1. correctly describes the life of an average HDB-heartland-living boy.
3.1.2. Difficulties of being a singaporean student highlighted.
3.1.3. Relationship problems that happen often in real life occur in the novel
3.1.4. Thoughts and feelings of men going through NS are clearly noted throughout Wing's NS life.