The Evolution of YA: Young Adult Fiction, Explained (Feat. Lindsay Ellis) | It's Lit!

Summary

This script explores the evolution of young adult (YA) literature, debunking the myth that today's youth don't read. It traces the genre's origins to post-WWII America, highlighting the role of librarians in shaping it. The script discusses the genre's growth, from early novels like 'Seventeenth Summer' to the expansive 'Harry Potter' series, which broadened YA's audience. It also touches on the genre's ability to address social issues, as seen in books like 'The Hate You Give', and its wide appeal beyond the teenage demographic.

Takeaways

• 📚 Kids today are more well-read than previous generations, reading more books per year on average.
• 🎯 Young Adult (YA) literature has played a significant role in this trend, with popular series like 'The Hunger Games,' 'Harry Potter,' and 'Twilight' contributing to the increased interest.
• 📖 The term 'Young Adult' has had varied meanings over the years, ranging from coming-of-age stories to serialized adventures.
• 👶 Teenagers as a demographic emerged around World War II, influenced by advances in psychology, sociological changes, and technology.
• 📘 The first recognized YA novel, 'Seventeenth Summer,' was published in 1942 by Maureen Daly, addressing themes relevant to teens.
• 📚 Librarians, particularly from the New York Public Library, were instrumental in defining and promoting the YA genre, starting as early as 1906.
• 📝 YA fiction in the 1960s began to explore deeper subjects, with works like S.E. Hinton's 'The Outsiders' reflecting more thoughtful contemplation of teenage life.
• 🔮 The success of 'Harry Potter' in 1997 transformed YA, expanding its appeal beyond teens to adults and inspiring a surge in darker, genre-based YA fiction.
• 💥 YA fiction has seen various trends, including paranormal romance with 'Twilight' and dystopian fiction with 'The Hunger Games,' followed by a return to social issue-based narratives.
• 📊 YA is not just for teens; 55% of YA books purchased in 2012 were bought by adults, highlighting its broad appeal across age groups.

Q & A

Why is it incorrect to say that younger generations don't read books?

It is incorrect because millennials and the generation following them are actually more well-read on average and read more books per year than earlier generations.

What role did popular series like 'Harry Potter' and 'The Hunger Games' play in the reading habits of younger generations?

Series like 'Harry Potter' and 'The Hunger Games' played a significant role in increasing the reading habits of younger generations by popularizing the young adult (YA) genre and attracting a wide readership.

How did the concept of the young adult (YA) genre originate?

The YA genre originated in the mid-20th century, with its roots traced back to the 1940s when books began to address themes and plot points relevant to teenagers, such as dating, angst, and coming-of-age experiences.

What societal changes contributed to the emergence of the teenager as a distinct demographic?

The emergence of teenagers as a distinct demographic was influenced by advances in psychology, sociological changes like the abolishment of child labor, and technological advances such as the car, which made it easier for teens to engage in independent activities.

Who were some key figures in the early development of the YA genre?

Key figures in the early development of the YA genre included Maureen Daly, who published 'Seventeenth Summer' at age 17, and librarians like Anne Carroll Moore, Mabel Williams, and Margaret Scoggin from the New York Public Library, who played crucial roles in identifying and promoting books for young adults.

How did S.E. Hinton's 'The Outsiders' contribute to the evolution of YA fiction?

'The Outsiders,' published in 1967 by S.E. Hinton, marked a shift in YA fiction by exploring deeper and more thoughtful themes about teenage life, helping the genre mature and expand beyond simple romantic plots.

What was the impact of the 'Harry Potter' series on the YA genre?

The 'Harry Potter' series had a profound impact on the YA genre by appealing to both young adults and adults, leading to a broader acceptance of YA fiction and paving the way for darker, genre-based YA novels that appealed to a wider audience.

How has the focus of YA fiction shifted in recent years?

In recent years, the focus of YA fiction has shifted back to addressing relevant social issues and the real world, as seen in popular books like 'The Fault In Our Stars' by John Green and 'The Hate You Give' by Angie Thomas, which deal with serious and contemporary topics.

What demographic predominantly purchases YA books?

A significant portion of YA books is purchased by adults, with 55% of YA books in 2012 being bought by adults between the ages of 18 and 44.

Why is the YA genre considered important beyond its target audience?

The YA genre is important beyond its target audience because it shapes younger readers, provides them with a lexicon to understand the transition from childhood to adulthood, and has been pioneered by influential women authors and librarians who have helped define and evolve the genre.