Young adult literature

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Young adult literature

Young adult literature (often abbreviated as YA literature) is a category of fiction written for readers from 12 to 18 years of age. The subject matter and genres of YA literature are typically consistent with the age and experience of the protagonist, but the genre is defined by the age of the protagonist rather than the specific content. The themes in YA literature often address issues relevant to adolescents, such as identity, friendship, sexuality, family, and mental health.

History

The origins of young adult literature can be traced back to the 19th century with works like Louisa May Alcott's Little Women and Mark Twain's The Adventures of Tom Sawyer. However, the term "young adult" was not widely used until the 1960s. The publication of S.E. Hinton's The Outsiders in 1967 is often credited with establishing the modern YA genre.

Characteristics

YA literature often features a coming-of-age story, where the protagonist undergoes significant personal growth. The narrative voice is typically that of a teenager, and the language used is accessible to younger readers. Common themes include:

• Identity and self-discovery
• Friendship and relationships
• Family dynamics
• Mental health issues
• Sexuality and romantic relationships

Genres

YA literature spans a wide range of genres, including:

• Fantasy
• Science fiction
• Romance
• Mystery
• Historical fiction
• Contemporary fiction

Notable Authors and Works

Some of the most influential authors and works in YA literature include:

• J.K. Rowling - Harry Potter series
• Suzanne Collins - The Hunger Games
• John Green - The Fault in Our Stars
• Veronica Roth - Divergent series
• Rainbow Rowell - Eleanor & Park

Impact and Criticism

YA literature has had a significant impact on both readers and the publishing industry. It has been praised for its ability to engage young readers and address complex issues. However, it has also faced criticism for sometimes being formulaic or overly simplistic.

Related Pages

• Children's literature
• Coming-of-age story
• Fantasy literature
• Science fiction literature
• Romance literature
• Historical fiction
• Contemporary fiction

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