Themes of Young Adult Fiction

Teen fiction, also referred to as “Young Adult fiction”, is books written for the reading population from the ages of 12 through 18. Contemporary themes, in this genre; often deal with coming-of-age, romance, and sexuality. What I am wondering is if the adult writers of these books for teens are getting it right? Are they writing books that teens can identify with? What is your favorite "teen fiction?”

As always thank you for responding, sharing your thoughts, and taking us "between the lines."

Click here for more about "teen fiction"

Books That Speak to You

Recently I worked with one of BHS's English teacher's on, what I thought to be, a very creative assignment entitled "Reading and Writing History". In her words, "In order to move forward as readers and writers, it is important to know where we are as literate people."

Students were to choose 3 books they have enjoyed reading, from various "eras" of their life, as well as influential writing experiences they have had. It is the idea of looking at reading experiences that have shaped us or have had a lasting effect on us that I address this post.

Let's expand this classroom assignment and go "Between the Lines" of our own reading history.

We welcome your comments and thank you in advance for sharing.

Here is a link to the story of one person's reading history :
Re-reading Ourselves Through Little Women: Four Young Readers’ Story of Feminine and Feminist Mentoring Through the Voice of Jo March

Graphic Novels

Q. What do the 9/11 Report, The War Within, a story about a U.S. soldier who lost a leg in Iraq, and Naruto, the tests of the Ninja, have in common?

A. They are all book titles held by the Barrington High School Library and they are all graphic novels, i.e. stories that use a comic-book-like layout.

Are “comics” finally becoming acceptable as a literary genre . . . .are they gaining new respect. . . can they be “good enough” choices for classroom reading assignments? It would appear so, given that the 9/11 Commission recently published their report in a format (graphic version) that would make “. . .our nation’s history accessible to all [and] . . encourage our fellow citizens to study, reflect, and – act.” And that General R. Myers, former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, stated that Gary Trudeau’s recent comic book-style portrayal of a U.S. soldier with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder "will help wounded and recovering service-members heal and move on with the rest of their lives." In addition Anime/Manga clubs are "popping up" at many high school and public libraries including BHS, whose members are very dedicated and active readers of this genre.

What are your thoughts? We invite you to go “between the lines” with graphic novels.