Coined in the 1960s, young adult fiction was originally marketed at 12-18-year-olds to fill the gap between children's literature and adult literature. However, over half of young adult readers are actually adults. Should we be embarrassed to read young adult novels, or are they worth reading?
Yes, young adult novels are worth reading
Young adult novels provide a safe space for adolescents to learn about the world they live in as they transition from childhood to adulthood. They deserve to be read.
Young adult novels gently introduce difficult real-life issues
Young adult novels and their many sub-genres are a safe space for authors to sensitively introduce their readers to politically or emotionally challenging issues.
Young adult novels expose adolescents to adult themes they may not be ready for. Authors of young adult novels do not fulfill their responsibilities to protect their readers from amoral or psychologically traumatic content. Young adult novels should not be read.
Young adult novels are dark and amoral
Young adult novels have taken a dark and inappropriate turn. Young adult authors who sensationalize drugs, sex, and violence could endanger the moral development of young adults.
