A recent article in The Vancouver Sun, “ Lines Blur Between Adult and Teen Novels,” suggests that a new literary trend is towards stories that appeal equally to teens and adults. Such books, writes reporter Tracy Sherlock, deal with mature subjects (see the dystopian novel The Hunger Games for one example) while retaining certain key features of the teen genre.
Given the interest many adults are taking in such trendy teen novels as Twilight and Harry Potter, it’s unlikely that the line between teen and adult fiction will ever disappear completely; clearly the genre has its own unique appeal. Here's a list of some of the key features of the teen genre that differentiates it from adult novels, and which are likely a big part of the reason why it’s enjoying such extraordinary success among readers of all ages. It should be noted that these are broad distinctions, and will not be true in every case.
1. The Teenage Protagonist
It may seem obvious, but teen novels star teenagers, which (usually) sets them apart from adult fiction. This is appealing for adults because it gives them the opportunity to reminisce by putting themselves in the younger protagonists’ shoes.
2. Fast-Paced Plot
As The Vancouver Sun article suggests, the typical teen novel is much more focused on plot than it is on atmosphere, literary devices, or even characterization. That’s not to say that teen novels ignore these elements, only that the emphasis is different. This makes for a refreshing change from adult fiction. Teen fiction is almost never “slow”: it moves from one exciting plot twist to the next.
3. The Absence of a Separate “Narrator”
Teen novels are narrated by their protagonists. There is rarely a separate authorial “voice” commenting on the events as they happen, or on the protagonists’ reactions to them, as oftentimes there is in adult books.
4. A Lack of “Mature” Content
Most teen novels contain little in the way of strong language or nudity. Violence is more common, but it is rarely of a deeply disturbing or graphic nature, and may take place “off-screen.” Examples include Jennifer Donnelly’s Revolution and Philip Pullman’s His Dark Materials series.
5. An Emphasis on Rebellion and Transformation
The protagonists of YA novels often seek to change or abandon the life they have lived thus far—whether because of boredom, past hardships, or a sense of entrapment. If the novel is fantasy, the main characters may wish to suppress or develop their magical powers; if historical fiction, characters may feel constrained by the restrictions of their society. In Carrie Ryan's The Forest of Hands and Teeth, for example, the main character’s primary desire is to see the world beyond “the forest” that surrounds her small community. This isn’t to say that adult novels don’t explore these themes, but they may be muted by a tone of cynicism or a desire to adapt to the world “as it is.”
These are just some of the characteristics of YA fiction that often demarcate this hugely successful, and uniquely enjoyable, genre from adult literature. Can you think of others? Leave a comment below!
Heather Fawcett - Heather Fawcett is a Vancouver-based writer and editor. She holds an M.A. in English Literature and specializes in teen fiction, having ...
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