Aug 01 2006
Teen lit gets steamy and other parental nightmares
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The Denver Post recently ran a front page story on the changing world of teen books. In Teen lit gets steamy Books for youngsters tackling once-taboo topics, writer Cynthia J. Pasquale reports:
Such a plethora of books on adult subjects wouldn’t have been on shelves 20 years ago, says Suzi Fischer, who buys for the Bookies in Denver. "Sticky subjects like sex, abuse, gay relationships and drugs. Some publishers are pushing for the gritty subjects just because it gets noticed. But people are asking for it. … It’s needed in today’s world," where kids grow up much faster and get much of their information from television.
Before you ban your tween or teen from your local book store or library, Pasquale writes there’s already a backlash:
"Buyers and librarians are looking for a change, the ‘clean teen,’ where a character is more of a model for teens. Publishers are getting the message, and in the next year, we’re going to see some changes," say Judy Bulow, book buyer for the Tattered Cover.
Young people have first amendment rights and complete access to any book at a public library (see the American Library Association’s Bill of Rights.) Still parents must be aware of what kind of books their children are reading and checking out and what websites they’re viewing. Again, the ALA provides many resources for online safety.
The best thing you can do is talk to them in a non-threatening way about what they’re reading. Some examples are, "So what are you reading? How do you like it? Do you think that character made the best choice for themselves?"
Read what your kids are reading, and discuss the books with them. This is an ideal time to teach the moral values you believe in, and to tackle subjects like sex, drugs, growing up, and feelings. Bottom line - it’s all about talking, sharing, and keeping the lines of communication open between you and your child.
(Click here for YA novel reviews.)
electric fireplace
I read Judy Bloom’s “Forever” when I was in the 7th grade. I had NO IDEA! It was Judy Bloom for crying out loud! She wrote Superfudge and Margaret. I have to say, it was a good book.
Both of my boys are HUGE readers at 11 and 9 but I also go pick out books with them. When they are old enough to go by themselves I have to trust that they will make the appropriate choices. I can’t shield them from it, I just have to give them the tools to deal with it. Life is very different these days.
I really enjoy reading your blog. You may want to check out the kids book “Please Bury Me in the Library.” It is a beautifully illustrated childrens book of poetry about reading.