I adore young-adult fiction. If you go through my ‘read’ list or even my collection of books at home, you’ll find over 95% of it belonging to the YA genre.
While that was perfectly acceptable around five years, ago, I now get a lot of raised eyebrows over my reading preferences at my current age of almost twenty-two. I know I’m not that far ahead from that supposedly ‘right age bracket’ for reading YA, but I just find it interesting how these books have been reduced to the age of their main characters. Seriously, I can go on and on about how misunderstood this genre of literature is, especially in India.
There have been numerous instances where people have come up to me with their unsolicited advice on how I should consider reading stuff that has genuine ‘literary value’ instead of the teenage fluff *mega eye rolls*.
I could turn this into a rant post, but I would rather prefer talking about the reasons you should, as an adult, absolutely read young-adult fiction if you wish to.
So let’s start with some facts, shall we?
As per a study published in 2012, more than 50% of those who purchase YA fiction are over the age of 18. But more interestingly, the study revealed that 78% of these buyers had reported that the books were bought for their own consumption and not anybody else’s.
Now, why do you think these books appeal to so many and so far beyond their target audience? I have been discussing and researching this subject for a while, and from my understanding, here are a few reasons:
- Universal Applicability: The themes, issues and complexities explored in YA novels are vast, not only in terms of numbers but also applicability. While these books involve the perspectives of younger people, most of the subjects matters discussed are ubiquitous in nature.
- Nostalgia: Even if you’re not a teenager and the things happening in the book don’t apply to your life, a YA book will make you remember your younger self. The one who once might have been in a situation similar to that of the characters’ in the book, if not physically, then mentally. They will remind you of times when things were both simpler, yet infinitely harder. (For example, Saint Anything by Sarah Dessen)
- Escape, not: Now, of course, the escape these books provide play a big role in the ever-growing popularity of the genre. Some of them give you the fluffy, satisfying feeling of a happily ever after (which we all know, real life doesn’t always provide). But that isn’t what the genre is all about. There are plenty of YA books with real stories and realistic characters, some with heartbreaking and tragic endings. These kinds of books make you think and feel and believe, and cannot be considered fluff in any sense of the word. (For example, Eleanor and Park by Rainbow Rowell)
- Conciseness: A few people I spoke to pointed out that YA books do a great job of telling a story more succinctly as compared to similarly themed adult books. I agree because it makes sense, doesn’t it? Teenagers have shorter attention spans, so the books have to communicate the message clearly, without beating around the bush.
- Honest good work: Here’s the thing: a good story is a good story. No matter who it is written for, a solid story filled with depth, emotions and messages can win can anyone over. YA fiction explores all kind of themes and characters. No subject is too taboo, no protagonist too diverse. So why shouldn’t it receive the kind of appreciation it deserves? (For example, Forbidden by Tabitha Suzuma, need I say anymore?)
- Tone: When you compare young-adult fiction to adult fiction, one pertinent difference you will find is the more optimistic tonality adopted by the writers of YA. When I discussed this particular point with a fellow book blogger who has read a lot of both adult and YA fiction, she agreed, saying “Young-Adult novels make me feel like I will be okay. Even the most tragic of stories end with a feeling of hope.” (For example: Looking for Alaska by John Green)
When it comes to this genre, there is a lot that can be said in terms of why it attracts such popularity. From strong female-driven stories to empowering and coming of age tales that are extremely relatable, it gives you a little of everything. YA even has more subsets of genres like romance, fantasy, comedy, dystopian fiction, realistic fiction, etc. Basically, there is a little something for everybody!
And we all have J.K. Rowling and her Harry Potter series to thank for normalizing the popularity of the YA genre. Did you know that the HP books were published with two separate covers, one for children, and the other one for adults? The reason was simple. The publisher wanted to make sure the adult readers didn’t feel conscious about reading a YA book, especially in public.
So the next time someone tries to make you feel bad about what you’re reading, remember it’s them, missing out on some kickass work, and not you, who is having all the fun.
So that’s it for today, folks. If you liked this post, make sure to SUBSCRIBE or LIKE or COMMENT or do all of them!
I’m 32 and still read a lot of YA, I find it easy to read at the end of a long day, the characters are often easier to fit into the magical roles, (I mainly read fantasy) And more often than not it’s clean, not that it bothers me but I find it less likely to get an awkward scene which feels off when reading YA. Great post
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I agree, YA is amazingly entertaining and versatile. It pains me to see so many people dissing it completely as a genre, especially when they have not even tried it out.
Thank you so much for reading ❤
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I hate it when people judge people who read YA novels, like it’s limited to 15year olds and anyone older than that should only read serious, intense novels.
Thanks for acknowledging the stigma and emphasising on how they’re for all ages
Love it!
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Thank you so much for reading 🌸
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Much needed post! Good job pointing out the facts and reasons. So many people love YA but hesitate from picking them up, especially in public. YA is awesome and I’m a proud reader.
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‘Young Adult’ books have never been my favourite genre for books/movies or anything …. This is a very compelling argument and I think it’s time, I give them a try 💕🤭🤭
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That is the thing, YA not being someone’s taste is completely fine. But it is wrong to undermine the genre and shame people who actually enjoy reading it. Sadly, there are a lot of people who still do that.
Thank you for reading. 🌸
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I agree! I was one of those … But i am learning 😋
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Honestly speaking, you should read it because it’s fun, you can relate easily and feel what the writer is actually trying to convey to you.
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Exactly. And even if it is not something you enjoy, you shouldn’t make those who like reading it uncomfortable.
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Great article! Much needed. YA are undoubtedly great reads!!
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Thank you for reading 🌸
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People consider YA is trashy from the looks of it but its a really really fun read.
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Yes, YA has a lot to offer, in terms of fun, emotions, deep messages. A lot of people even judge the genre without ever having tried it.
Thank you for reading 🌸
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Totally YA genre books are light reads that help you escape the heavy feeling called life once in a while. I absolutely love YA books.
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Thank you so much for this post! I know the exact feeling you get when people ask you to read “real” stuff and not “fluff”! I am so gonna make them read this post! Good job!❤️
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Thank you so much for reading. 🌸Really hope it helps open a few eyes at least.
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Awesome blog post. ❤
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My reading inspo❤️
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Amazing article. YA actually is light and can be read by anyone.
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I’m a huge fan of young adult literature and will advocate its importance forever. You definitely don’t have to be a teenager to enjoy these stories! Thanks for sharing!
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Hey, thanks for reading! And I agree, YA is not limited to any age bracket and so it’s absolutely wrong to stigmatize it’s readers.
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