I
am 26-years-old, and I ♥ YA books. Now here I sit on
the cusp of my big debut as a published author (squeal), but it probably never
would have happened if I hadn’t found my affinity for YA.
In fact, the first novel I wrote was multicultural literary fiction—
it’s never going to be published. I wrote lit fic, because I was trying to
prove something to myself, to the world, to somebody. But the book didn’t
encapsulate who I am or what makes me a strong writer. So naturally, the story
fell flat.
I have no idea what made me decide to write YA the second time around. I
even remember trying to avoid it. I spent months trying to convince myself
that Farsighted was too ambitious of a project. I was this
close to writing a historical fiction novel instead. I’m glad I didn’t listen
to my inner worrywart, because writing Farsighted is the best
thing I’ve ever done.
When you find that genre that speaks to you and allows you to speak
through it, don’t let that go!
Now I’d like to share 10 reasons why I love writing YA. It’s okay if YA
isn’t your genre du jour, but don’t force yourself to write
something just because the genre is popular or well-respected. Write what your
heart wants to write, and the rest will turn out okay.
I write YA because...
1. I wish I had a chance to do my teen years over again. To live them more fully. Writing about teens gives me the chance
to do so vicariously.
2. YA is a broad genre. The sky’s
the limit. I can write a dystopic novel this year and a romance or mystery next
year. YA is not confined by specific plot conventions like other genres. It’s
more focused on the characters.
3. YA has a broad readership. The
primary audience is, of course, teens. But younger kids also enjoy reading
about what the big kids are doing, and adults like reliving their glory days
too.
4. The language is fun and approachable. Sure,
you could write literary YA, but the candid and easy-to-read style of YA is
part of its appeal.
5. First person POV is where it’s at. YA
doesn't have to be told in the first person viewpoint, but a lot of it is.
Adult literature sticks more to the third person. I love writing in first
person. It’s easier for me to develop a character that way, and I enjoy the
writing process more.
6. The characters are sympathetic. It’s
easier to forgive the misdeeds of someone who’s “just a kid,” making it easier
for readers and writers alike to identify with YA characters.
7. The characters can change and grow. They
aren’t yet set in their ways. Growth is an expected part of teendom, and it’s
wonderful helping your characters achieve that potential.
8. The readers of YA are incredibly devoted. If
they like what you’ve written, they will tell the world. Can you think of any
books that have a greater cult following than Twilight, Harry Potter, and
Hunger Games? Because I can’t.
9. YA readers WANT to enjoy books. They’re
not looking to tear a book apart and flesh out all of its flaws. They are
willing to overlook weaknesses within a book and focus on what they love about
it. Their pleasure in reading is free and much more pure.
10. It’s what I most enjoy reading.
Write what you love to read. Don’t force yourself to write a romance if writing
sexually suggestive scenes makes you uncomfortable. Don’t write literary
fiction as a way to show off your intellect. Write what you want to write.
Write was fits your talents and enthusiasm. That’s your best chance at success
(no matter how you define the term).
Guest
post by Emlyn Chand
Genre
- Fantasy / Futuristic & Romance
Rating
- PG13
