Young reads

I remind myself that we live in a society in which people still think of themselves as 'young' when they are 50. When do we stop being young adults? Is there any reason a 60-year-old wouldn’t be able to find some pleasure, and perhaps some edification, in a good Y/A [young adult] book?

— Marilyn Nelson, author of 21 poetry books, for adult and young adult readers

This summer, some of the best books I read weren’t meant for me.

Written for young readers, this season's favorites delivered fresh language and perspective:
• Speak, by Laurie Halse Anderson
• Absolutely Normal Chaos, by Sharon Creech
• From the Bellybutton of the Moon and other summer poems, by Francisco X. Alarcón

After a long run of adult fiction that works the predictable paths of mother-daughter strain or husband-wife ennui, I’m relieved to read young adult dilemmas of friendship, trust and identity. None of it trite and all of it memorable.

As I prepare for a new school year (I’ll be leading creative reading and writing activities for grade school, middle school and high school students), I’m seeking new material.

So, here's a call to all ages: What are you reading?

Young (and not so young) minds are eager and waiting. I'll absorb, savor, and post your suggestions here.

Comments

[Eliza]

Odd. I was going to recommend a book to you..and then it slipped my mind (sorry) But it is a YA book. :)

SINGLE SHARD -- just exquisite Linda Sue Park