YA Genre Speaks to Today’s Teenager

Remember the angst and drama of your teenage years? For many, books–especially those labeled Young Adult–offer refuge and escape.

Jessica Stites, associate editor of Ms. magazine, has this to say in the magazine’s Fall issue: “What most of these books have in common is a certain kind of hero(ine): young, brave, rebellious and independent … And although she may face flak for her nonconformity, ultimately it serves her well.”

Her feature article, “Kick-Ass Girls and Feminist Boys,” references 30 novels that address contemporary teen issues and includes a list of the magazine’s 12 favorites.

Available on newstands.