For this chapter we were given a list taken from Mertz&England, 1983 on the definition of YA Literature. Before I read this list, I have to say that my definition was a little different. I did not really realize that YA literature is always about a youthful protagonist. It may seem silly, but I really saw it more as literature a child of that age could read on their level, so my scope has been widened for sure! The 10 factors listed for the definition flushed out what I should be looking for in picking meaningful books for my YA students. They will be ones with an adolescent point of view, so that YA readers can connect to them. They will also involve characters that go through a significant change in their lives, such as Lily in Lily and Dunkin. The main character will also be someone who is highly independent and reaps the consequences of his/her actions, such as in Monster. Some of the other things listed were that the books will take place over a brief time period, but they will show a little glimpse into how adolescents develop.
I think the most important part of YA books that the list talked about was that YA books “mirror contemporary issues.” It is for this reason that librarians need to get to know their students and find books that they can connect with, and that maybe can get them through some of the things that they are struggling with.
The list was very informative for me and one that I will keep for reference in the future!
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