Today is Part Two this quarter's Teen Panel. You can still view Part One.
Teens
- I enjoy reading more about people whose lives are different or whose settings are similar to mine, but they have an extraordinary set of circumstances that makes things very different from my life. Reading about other cultures, races and societies makes me think more and really wraps me into the story- it's just fascinating to see how different social settings can completely change a person's views and give their life a whole different direction.
- I like both. I love being able to relate to a character, but I also want to be in someone else's shoes. It's nice when there's a combination of both in one book. Like having a character who hates reading (very unlike me), but who has an addiction to coffee (very like me). Or someone who's a spy (unlike me (or is it?)) but loves animals (like me). It's awesome to be transported to a new time period or society or culture, but it's also awesome to have a grounding in my own life that I can relate to.
- Like I mentioned above, I would love to read historical fiction set in different countries, so I love learning about different cultures. Obviously there needs to be something in the story or the character that I can identify with, or that will motivate me to read the story, but I am always up for learning something new while reading. I adored the Girls of Many Lands series when I was young, and I wish there was a similar series of books for YA readers. And reading about people like me is also always nice. It's cool when I can put myself into the story I am reading.
- I think it's difficult to write from the POV of multiple characters, but if it's done correctly, that can be one of my favorite styles of writing. The characters need to have distinct voices so they don't blend into each other. I mostly prefer first person literature because it tends to get you into the head of the main character better.
- I prefer first person because it allows you to get into a character's head more. For that same reason, I prefer one-person POV novels. I really want to connect to a character, and depending on the length of a novel, it's hard to do
8 Comments on Teen Panel - Part Two, last added: 7/27/2010Display Comments Add a Comment
Thanks so much for posting this! I really enjoy your teen panels. Such an interesting perspective. I wonder, do you ever ask if older teens read adult books and what kinds of adult books they read if it's not required reading? I remember reading a lot of adult books as an older teen and I wonder what might appeal to them today in the world of publishing in general, not just YA.
Another terrific panel! It's great to hear from the target audience. :) Thanks so much everyone for the input!
Great interview. It's so interesting to hear what your teen panel thinks. It's interesting that they all prefer first person POV.
Melissa's question is a good one. Do they like adult fantasy more than YA? Do they think it's different for their friends that are boy?
Super questions and it's so helpful to get the perspective of various teens.
Another fabulous teen panel! Love hearing what they honestly think!
So interesting! And I especially love the signs that the vampire fad is dying out.
So great to hear from those we write for.
Lots of great insights from this panel, as always! Thanks, Shelli and the gang.