The Age of Young Adult Literature

What direction is Young Adult Literature taking? As I reflect on the books I read during the course, the books dealt with different social and emotional issues teenagers encounter. The problems young adults are facing are not unique to today's teens. These are some of the same issues teenagers have faced, but now it is acceptable to have open discussions. Although the problems are the same, there is a difference in how they are handled. An example for dealing with problems in a different way is how the character in In Search of Mockingbird dealt with trying to find her connection to her family. Erin jumped on a bus in the night without anyone knowing she was leaving. Without any fear she befriended several people and continued her journey. I feel because of the advancement in technology children hear and see more; this make them willing to try different things.

From reading Michael Cart's From Romance to Realism I understand how and why genres in YAL evolved. Just like most things in life YAL is going in a full circle. Literature for teenagers/young adults was not a focus. Children who fell into this category were reading books that were published for adults or the "kiddie literature ". It became apparent the social and emotional levels of teens were not "black or white" that there were shades of gray, some complexities within the framework. The problems have escalated with a level of intensity as well as being extreme.

Romance novels were and are a big seller. To keep this genre in demand the marketing technique to print in paperback allows the text to be affordable and accessible to the public. By being readliy available and affordable these novels will appeal to young adults. Most YA, females, enjoy reading romance novels, but the content may not be age appropriate. Sometimes, authors add the romance to a novel within another genre such as problem books.

I read Haters by Alisa Valdes-Rodriguez this text deals with some social/emotional problems some young adults face. Valdes-Rodriguez included a romantic situation within the story line. Adding the romance to the story may separate this book from being labeled as a "problem book". Romance novels will be around because the opportunity to escape ones present situation will keep this genre popular. Mass media plays a role in the literature read by most. The soap operas which are a combination of romance and problems capture the interest of all age groups.

The books we read were "problem books"; this genre allow untouched topics to be discussed. Also, it gives some readers a mirror to look into and reflect on their own lives. The text for some is a self help. I feel this genre will continue to grow because society is open to discussing problems that were taboo. We have a wealth of talk shows willing to be a forum for social/emotoinal issues in our world. There are an abundance of reality shows that depict life as is. Because of the advancement in technology we are privy to continuous information that previous generations did not have. I feel our advanced society is allowing opportunities for authors to publish more novels in this area.

The writer's style for presenting the text has taken on different forms. Authors are telling these stories in graphic novels which allows readers at different abilities to interact with text. Graphic novels aren't the standard "comic books". This genre is written in fiction and nonfiction. The novels deal with current issues "problem books"; the selections are not just the super heroes or biographies. Graphic novels will continue to grow as more young adults are introduced to the genre. When the demand becomes apparent to publishers graphic novels will be easier to purchase. This form of literature is slowly getting in demand. About two years ago when I inquired about graphic novels for students a book vendor did not carry them. I feel as more adults realize their value and expose children to them there demand will increase.


Another literary style some authors use to interest readers is create several short selections in a novel. Most authors are aware of their audience and realize the marketing techniques it takes to have their novels published and kept in circulation. Using shorter selections can attract the relunctant reader. Having a variety in one novel exposes the reader to different story lines, and keeps the reader interest, Writing in this format would ensure the reader will complete the text.

Young Adult Literature is written for males as well as females. Topics that were taboo relating to sexuality are in the forefront. Describing a homosexual relationship in a novel is acceptable due to the openness of gay and lesbianism. Graphic descriptions of intimacy is published. Authors do not seem to be fearful of crossing the line and not getting their books published. Their only fear in this area is whether or not the book will be banned in a district, school, or home! Because we can retrieve information twenty-four hours a day children are aware of the worldly situations. They are not in the dark which makes it possible for authors to publish books about topics that people were afraid to address.

Today, authors are from different cultures. More books are being written and published by people of color. Authors of different backgrounds are publishing novels; these authors can relate to today's young adults. Looking at the sexuality and ethnicity of today's readers create a different demand for publishing books. Books published by authors of differnt cultures exposes the reader into a world they do not know.

I feel problem books as well as as graphic novels will be in demand because of the direction of television. Outside forces contribute to what's in demand in our society. As the increase in reality television continues, some authors may feel the need to write for this audience. Authors with diverse backgrounds will continue to be in the forefront of young adult literature because they will reach a diverse population of young adults.