If you're an avid YA reader, there's no way you've escaped hearing about the stigma that surrounds the genre -- the fact that people who read YA even though they're older than the "targeted market" are often seen as immature, nostalgic, or stuck in their younger years. Recently, after our university newspaper posted an opinion piece in which the writer talked about how we all need to "read our age" -- meaning, basically, that we should break away from YA and focus on the classics such as Dickens -- we decided to send out a Tweet and ask if there were any other YA readers that were over 18 out there. Not to start trouble or stir up angry feelings, but just to see -- just how many "out of the age range" YA readers are there? Our Tweet was as follows:
SOS! 🗣 Do you read YA even though you’re 18+? If you do, please DM us or reply to this Tweet — we have a post idea, and we need your help! #replytweet
Well, it's safe to say the response we got was absolutely overwhelming. We got nearly 1,000 people over the age of 18 who wanted to tell us why they still read YA even though they're past the "marketable" age-range for the genre. We had so many amazing responses that we wanted to take the time to share them all with you -- but since there are so many, it turns out that we had to make it a series! For 10 whole weeks, we're going to be sharing 10 reasons (100 in total!) why "older" YA readers stick with the genre, and why it's important to them. So without further ado, here are 10 readers (plus a bonus author!) above the age of 18 who explained to us why they still read YA:
I’m 25 and YA is my favourite genre. I think part of the reason I still read YA books is because they’re very entertaining without the “heavier” literary style of some adult books. Another reason is because I’m dealing with trauma that I experienced as a teenager and haven’t fully recovered from yet, and YA novels often deal with similar trauma. I also think that as someone in the generation of “Am I an adult yet?”, people my age have to deal with adulthood that’s so very different from our parents’ lives at our age. We still feel like a teenager in some aspects, so reading teenage protagonists makes sense because we can still identify with them.
-@Synstone7
I should start by saying that I've been part of a "YA for not so YA's" book club (yes, that's its name) for several years now, hosted by Avid Bookshop, my wonderful local indie bookstore. Like many mid-range millennials, I devoured Harry Potter throughout middle and high school and fell deep down the rabbit hole that was the Twilight series. But then I majored in English in college and found myself mostly reading what was assigned to me for the next 4 years, so once I graduated and had more free time, it made sense to return to what I had loved. As a genre, YA offers books that are more diverse and empathetic and interesting than the overwhelming majority of "literary fiction" meant for adults. YA pushes the boundaries of the publishing world in a way that literary fiction does not, both in terms of the authors it promotes and the content of its books. There's also something really magical about the key time in a young person's life where they are being challenged and pushed to find themselves and smack in the middle of becoming who they're going to be that I love to read about.
-Anonymous
You had asked why I still read YA novels, considering I am quite older than the targeted demographic. Two main reasons: 1) I thoroughly enjoy this category of books as they tend to throw the reader right into the the story at the beginning, while at the same time providing background/world building information. Many adult fiction novels take a bit too much time building up to the story; 2) I'm a high school teacher and I like to keep up to date with which books my students are reading by actually reading the books they enjoy/recommend. These books, whether fantasy, contemporary, mystery, rom-com, etc., provide a glimpse into the issues that this age group face and how those issues have changed since my time, in turn allowing me to attempt to understand them on a different level.
-Anonymous
I am a 21 year old college student who absolutely adores YA. I have always loved reading since I was little, but YA is what really made me an avid reader back in high school and I haven't stopped reading them since. Although the YA genre is usually targeted towards a high school audience, it has really come a long way with the topics it addresses and the audiences it captivates. In many ways, I feel that the YA genre is becoming more and more diverse than NA books, making it more relevant in the world we all live in today with stories ranging from fantasies, contemporaries, historical fiction, sci-fi, and even romance that target and celebrate audiences from all ages, races, and the LGBTQ+ community. YA has really pushed the envelope in striving to include people of all walks of life and to create a more unified community, addressing real-life situations and topics while creating a temporary escape for the reader, which is why I always reach for those books.
-@blissfulrevries
I still read YA at age 35 because it allows me to escape for a while. I love losing myself in a good book now and again. Plus there are so many amazing new voices in YA that are just waiting to be discovered. I love going to the bookstore and just walk up and down the aisles of the Young Adult section and pick random books off the shelves.
-@bookishfangirl
I'm 20 and I love reading YA because YA has some of the BEST stories out there. Just look at all the amazing films that have been made from YA books! For example, Hunger Games, To All The Boys I've Loved Before, Maze Runner, etc. None of those movies would have existed without these books. If you watch a TV-14 show or a PG-13 movie, why wouldn't you read a YA book?
-@megan_gables
I look back fondly on that period of my life, and I feel like I’ll always be young at heart. I like to think of YA as young adult and up! The genre is enjoyable for so many more age groups than young adults.
-@k_Guhl
What makes me love reading YA literature most of all is the fact that they’re coming-of-age stories, and we’re still coming of age. We never hit a certain point in our lives when our growing, maturing, and learning about the world stop, and the young adult genre acknowledges that. YA books accept that I have ideas and perceptions that can be changed. Being reminded how to see the world with new eyes gives me faith that my world and reality can also change one day.
-@MBelleTower, Age 31
I still read YA because it helps me learn about the current events that are happening and how it can affect someone who is younger than I am. It helps me be more empathetic and understanding to others. It helps me realize some important life lessons that I forgot about and encourages me to be better. I read it because it makes me happy and I can relate to it on a deeper level. No matter what genre it is, it’s one that has always made me happy and my love for reading grows because of it.
-@pll_lover13, Age 19
I never felt books were places for rules or restraints. It's all words so you have no visual or realistic limitations. Age groups in my opinion work as a marketing guide but when used too strictly can cut you off to a much wider audience. I read YA because the stories and characters interest me, and they don't have to be exactly my age to do that. If I'm expected to relate just fine enough to read about a detective with a ghost companion or a thousand year old vampire in an adult book, why not in YA?
-@KnowingStiles
I haven’t been a young adult in over twenty years, but reading YA fiction still inspires me. It’s full of hope; it tells our future leaders that we can still change things. It paints readers a clear picture of what the world could be, even if it doesn’t look that way now. As a kid, I needed these stories to transport me away from difficult situations. As an adult, I need the reminder that despite the rainiest days, there’s the inevitability of sunshine.
-@kellycoon106, author of GRAVEMAIDENS
What are your thoughts about reading YA past the "age-appropriate" market? If you have something else to add on this topic, feel free to comment down below and share your opinions! We'd like to reach out and thank the 100+ people that came forward to share their words with us. We are incredibly grateful for everything you all helped this post become! It was a pleasure and an honor to work with all of you. <3
Check Out The Previous Posts:
Part One
Part Two
Part Three
Part Four
Part Five
Part Six
Part Seven
Part Eight
Part Nine
If you're an avid YA reader, there's no way you've escaped hearing about the stigma that surrounds the genre -- the fact that people who read YA even though they're older than the "targeted market" are often seen as immature, nostalgic, or stuck in their younger years. Recently, after our university newspaper posted an opinion piece in which the writer talked about how we all need to "read our age" -- meaning, basically, that we should break away from YA and focus on the classics such as Dickens -- we decided to send out a Tweet and ask if there were any other YA readers that were over 18 out there. Not to start trouble or stir up angry feelings, but just to see -- just how many "out of the age range" YA readers are there? Our Tweet was as follows:
SOS! 🗣 Do you read YA even though you’re 18+? If you do, please DM us or reply to this Tweet — we have a post idea, and we need your help! #replytweet
Well, it's safe to say the response we got was absolutely overwhelming. We got nearly 1,000 people over the age of 18 who wanted to tell us why they still read YA even though they're past the "marketable" age-range for the genre. We had so many amazing responses that we wanted to take the time to share them all with you -- but since there are so many, it turns out that we had to make it a series! For 10 whole weeks, we're going to be sharing 10 reasons (100 in total!) why "older" YA readers stick with the genre, and why it's important to them. So without further ado, here are 10 readers above the age of 18 who explained to us why they still read YA:
When I was little I was drawn to the YA section because I wanted to be like the Big Kids, but as I've grown older I think I choose to read YA because it's the section that makes me feel most at home and also most out of my comfort zone. YA dips into so many different character types and backgrounds, that for me it's hard not to want to read everything within the category. Also YA is the only place in the bookstore where you'll find a WELL WRITTEN historical fantasy romance book or a sci-fi fairytale death-galore book. YA gives me everything I want with diverse characters I can relate to, even if I am older than them.
-@kenzieleetea
I still read YA because it’s not just for kids! The struggles and situations these characters go through are and can be relatable to people of all ages. Things like mental health, friendships, relationships and even fighting dragons isn’t just for children. It’s something that should be read about and talked about by people of all ages whether you are 15 or 55. And honestly, I’m still a young adult. So why shouldn’t I read it? Read what you enjoy! That’s all that matters.
-@LibrarianFiles
I read YA because I find the world, characters and story to be riveting and relatable. Whether you're a teen going through puberty or an adult having a midlife crisis, we all know and relate to those struggles and journey to find ourselves. Reading, like art and people, are very subjective, [so] not everyone will have the same personality and will like the same thing, so let's not shame diversity. [The] YA genre now [is] vastly more diverse and different from the "Twilight" era, but even so, it's quite demeaning to insult the book that has essentially paved the way for the other YA authors [and the] genre.
-@geekly_yuniq
Honestly, there are a variety of reasons why I still read YA at 23. One is the unending discussion around New Adult and how certain books would be better suited there (Hi, ACOTAR!). Another is a realization I came to in the past year which is that so much “literature” (and often that written by men!) is just so full of itself. My interest lies in well-written stories that focus on emotional aspects of being human, and authors in the YA sphere do that so well, something I have found lacking in adult literature aside from a few books.
-@sheba201
I read YA books for a couple of different reasons. I'm a high school English teacher, so I like reading books with my students and having books to recommend to them. But I also read them because I enjoy them. I feel like YA books are often more thoughtful and tackle more sensitive issues in an honest way than many books I've read that are supposedly written for "adults." I also like the sophisticated nature and storytelling techniques found in YA such as verse, letters, screenplay format, etc. that are not found as often in other genres.
-@saracuse9, Age in the 30's.
There are several reasons why I read Young Adult books. One of the biggest reasons, I think, is because I'm queer (more specifically transgender and demi/biro). Because of having to spend my teen years figuring out who I am, I feel like I missed out on a lot, and reading YA is one way to live out what I wish I had done in middle and high school. Another reason is because so many YA books are very inspirational. With the push for more diverse voices in recent years, there have been so many well-written books on such difficult topics, and there are so many stories out there that make me want to get up and make change happen. Not to mention the community is like my home. Between the writers, readers, bloggers, and everyone else involved in YA, it's like a second family!
-@AceofBens
"Grow up and read your age’"...No. Walk through life with a sense of lightness and play. The world is changing so fast that a sense of fun and a willingness to walk into new spaces is vital in work and life. YA dwells in the liminal space between youth and adulthood and to live a full and joyful life you need to keep navigating through that changing place. Keep hold of the magic, carry it with you in life, share it with others. Walk with Alanna and Mia and Laura and Anne and Hermione and Katniss and keep your heart full of sweetness and stories.
-@colquhounking
To me, reading is a hobby, something to enjoy. I read to spend time with characters I love on daring adventures and escapades. So when I grab a book, I'm not thinking, "Is this my reading level?" I'm thinking (to paraphrase the recent internet phenomenon) "Is this book going to make me happy?" Sometimes the book I grab is going to be challenging, dense writing that's 700 pages long. And sometimes, especially after a long day, that means I need a quick 350-page read that's just *fun.* If that happens to be a YA book, so be it! I'm not reading to impress anyone. I'm reading to relax, using whatever material does the trick.
-@SCmoviegirl
I read YA because it's amazing! YA books tell complex and exciting and diverse stories in ways that are surprising and less formulaic than a lot of adult books. Plus, YA stories deal with so many firsts -- first kisses, first dates, first friendships falling apart, first failures -- and the emotions that come with those are so raw and messy and hopeful and relatable at any age. I was a YA reader before I was a YA writer, but when I started writing books I knew there was no other type of book I wanted to write!
-@GiaCribbs, Author of THE DISAPPEARANCE OF SLOANE SULLIVAN
YA literature is not just for young adults. As a 26 year old (almost 27), I still read YA because there are so many amazing authors who create such vivid stories. When I choose a book to read, all I want is a story with a creative plot and dynamic characters. The supposed "target" age group does not matter. Some of the best literary worlds come from YA books.
-@NuclearMaven
What are your thoughts about reading YA past the "age-appropriate" market? If you have something else to add on this topic, feel free to comment down below and share your opinions! Also be on the lookout for another post next week, where we share even more thoughts from other 18+ YA readers!
Check Out The Previous Posts:
Part One
Part Two
Part Three
Part Four
Part Five
Part Six
Part Seven
Part Eight
If you're an avid YA reader, there's no way you've escaped hearing about the stigma that surrounds the genre -- the fact that people who read YA even though they're older than the "targeted market" are often seen as immature, nostalgic, or stuck in their younger years. Recently, after our university newspaper posted an opinion piece in which the writer talked about how we all need to "read our age" -- meaning, basically, that we should break away from YA and focus on the classics such as Dickens -- we decided to send out a Tweet and ask if there were any other YA readers that were over 18 out there. Not to start trouble or stir up angry feelings, but just to see -- just how many "out of the age range" YA readers are there? Our Tweet was as follows:
SOS! 🗣 Do you read YA even though you’re 18+? If you do, please DM us or reply to this Tweet — we have a post idea, and we need your help! #replytweet
Well, it's safe to say the response we got was absolutely overwhelming. We got nearly 1,000 people over the age of 18 who wanted to tell us why they still read YA even though they're past the "marketable" age-range for the genre. We had so many amazing responses that we wanted to take the time to share them all with you -- but since there are so many, it turns out that we had to make it a series! For 10 whole weeks, we're going to be sharing 10 reasons (100 in total!) why "older" YA readers stick with the genre, and why it's important to them. So without further ado, here are 10 readers above the age of 18 who explained to us why they still read YA:
YA stories are fast paced and well-thought out, covering topics and issues that adult novels sometimes shy away from but that are so important for society as a whole -- not just teenagers! And as an adult, I love going back and exploring the world from a teenage point of view -- it was a time of firsts, and important firsts at that, and if we forget about what it was like for us back then, we risk becoming less empathetic humans who forget the power and strength of young people.
-@Angstygeek
Reading is meant to be fun and YA stories, like T. A. Barron's Merlin series or Frank Beddor's Looking Glass Wars or Anthony Horowitz's Stormbreaker, are just as entertaining as any grown-folk read (and sometimes more so). YA is also at the forefront of LGBT acceptance; just look at the success of Becky Albertalli's Simon vs the Homo Sapiens Agenda and how meaningful it is. When was the last time an "adult" book touched that many lives?
-@willvanstonejr
I'm 27-years-old and I still read YA because even as an adult, I still connect to young adult books. I'm drawn to them for their rich characters, or complex plots, or their nuanced treatments of serious subjects. Even though I'm not a teen anymore, YA deals with a lot of themes I can still relate to, like finding your voice and your place in the world. And as a bonus, I'm a teacher, so I can relate to my students over common reading material.
-@yabytheway
I read YA for the same reason that I read any other book. Something (it's probably the cover, TBH!) about the book sends a spark into the reading part of my brain and makes me want to know more. Readers who dismiss YA books for whatever reason are really missing out on some amazing literature. YA encompasses everything that other genres have and sometimes more. If reading a book can bring you joy, then why should the fact it may be YA matter?
-@albert_bowes
I'm 32, and I read YA. For me, it's not the nostalgia that draws me in -- I was never a princess or a fierce fae warrior. The characters' experiences are nothing like my own, but I read it for the escapism. It's so easy to find a character-driven adventure with a light or dark tone that hits the spot in YA!
-@AmberR_Duell
I enjoy reading YA literature (even though I'm about to be 28 years old) because it's interesting. The adventures and magic that are a part of so many of these books draws me to them. The relatable story-lines and characters sometimes remind me of my life now and before when I was a bit younger. YA is just a broad genre that speaks to me more than other genres. I don't want to read adult romances and every nonfiction book that's just not for me. I like stories that make me use my imagination and give me that "movie in my mind."
-@toomanybooks326
The reason why I still read Young Adult novels is because this genre got me into reading. I’ve tried reading books for “my age” and they don’t capture my attention like a YA novel. I feel like there is a sense of adventure and growing that you can really see in a young adult character. The story lines in each book seem to be much more diverse in terms of worlds to me as well. Just because you’re a certain age shouldn’t define what you're reading or your reading preference.
-@felicia_32
I am no longer a young adult by any means, but I still read YA books. I find YA books often tell some of the most imaginative stories, and they so often feel very connected to the world as it is now. They explore current ideas, trends, prejudices and issues in ways that make them feel relevant and important. But most of all, there are so many YA authors out there writing excellent stories.
-@notsotweets
I like YA novels, because it feels like they combine multiple genres within one book. With "adult" books, it's often the case that you either read something romantic or something serious or a mystery, while with YA you can find all of that in the same book.
-@janneke_kocak
[I read YA] because it's the only place I remotely see myself represented. Also, I made friends through YA -- bloggers, authors, publicists, agents etc -- and I don't know how I could give that up. And yeah, sure, I read adult books too, but YA seems more sophisticated, thought out, and put together. There's more diversity, not just in race or religion, but also in general experiences, and I've gotten to understand life better by reading YA.
-@AvidReaderBlog
What are your thoughts about reading YA past the "age-appropriate" market? If you have something else to add on this topic, feel free to comment down below and share your opinions! Also be on the lookout for another post next week, where we share even more thoughts from other 18+ YA readers!
Check Out The Previous Posts:
Part One
Part Two
Part Three
Part Four
Part Five
Part Six
Part Seven
If you're an avid YA reader, there's no way you've escaped hearing about the stigma that surrounds the genre -- the fact that people who read YA even though they're older than the "targeted market" are often seen as immature, nostalgic, or stuck in their younger years. Recently, after our university newspaper posted an opinion piece in which the writer talked about how we all need to "read our age" -- meaning, basically, that we should break away from YA and focus on the classics such as Dickens -- we decided to send out a Tweet and ask if there were any other YA readers that were over 18 out there. Not to start trouble or stir up angry feelings, but just to see -- just how many "out of the age range" YA readers are there? Our Tweet was as follows:
SOS! 🗣 Do you read YA even though you’re 18+? If you do, please DM us or reply to this Tweet — we have a post idea, and we need your help! #replytweet
Well, it's safe to say the response we got was absolutely overwhelming. We got nearly 1,000 people over the age of 18 who wanted to tell us why they still read YA even though they're past the "marketable" age-range for the genre. We had so many amazing responses that we wanted to take the time to share them all with you -- but since there are so many, it turns out that we had to make it a series! For 10 whole weeks, we're going to be sharing 10 reasons (100 in total!) why "older" YA readers stick with the genre, and why it's important to them. So without further ado, here are 10 readers above the age of 18 who explained to us why they still read YA:
The idea that YA is merely a nostalgic reliving of their teen years is a superficial, disingenuous view of the genre. Cherry-picking a handful of commercial successes from years ago to make your point is akin to taking the top 3 grossing movies from 2015 (Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Jurassic World, and Avengers: Age of Ultron, per IMDB) and claiming they represent all movies. I'm an "Xennial" and read (and write) YA. I also read adult literary fiction, mysteries, thrillers, and classics. With YA as with all fiction, I put myself in the shoes of the characters -- characters who are still articulating identities as they bridge the gap from childhood to adulthood -- and think through what I might do in a given situation. I think through what 16 year-old me might have done and compare it to what now-me might do. YA, like all fiction, also extends an invitation to step outside my own experience and see the world through the lens of another. That invitation isn't reneged when you "age out."
-Jodie Lynn Zdrok (@jlzdrok), author of Spectacle (2019)
At the age of 33, I still read YA because YA is genre where young people are fighting rebellions against oppressors and discussing racial/gender/sexual identity and bias in everyday situations. These are the stories that give me hope for a better future because the authors aren't afraid to confront these topics. Additionally, as a POC, I find more diverse characters in YA that I can personally relate to, which I don't get a lot of in the adult fiction genres that I do read.
-@reading_chemist
Even though I recently turned 25 years old, I’m reading more YA novels now than before. YA novels commonly revolve around the themes of coming of age, self discovery, and coping with change -- matters that people can relate to no matter what stage in life. YA books also help me overcome past issues that I didn’t have the confidence or resources or examples to help with when I was younger. There are a lot of things I kept bottled up when I was younger and the characters in young adult novels give me that extra push to speak up and confront issues so I can finally put them behind me.
-@winniethepoonam
As someone past the “advertised” age group, I can truly say that I love YA because of the nostalgic feelings they invoke as I read. YA authors work tirelessly to provide the world with works that are both amazing and groundbreaking. I believe that YA literature is for everyone to enjoy because it would otherwise lead to a form of consumer discrimination based on age. “Advertised” age groups are also suggested age groups that shouldn’t be strictly adhered to. Otherwise, I would not have enjoyed works by Mary Higgins Clark at 11 years old.
-@tinabina30
I’m almost 22 and have never considered giving up YA. YA never seems juvenile to me. Characters in these stories go on epic adventures that adults only wish they could go on and go through heart-wrenching situations that some people will never go through no matter their age. And there is so much more diversity!
-@BlueEyedDemonx
YA is a safe space for me. I love reading fantasy, however, it's hard for me to navigate safely in Adult fantasy. There are authors that believe that because they are writing adults books, it's okay to normalize sexual assault scenes or to use sex to drive the entire plot, and that's something that makes me deeply uncomfortable. That doesn't happen [often] in YA, so I can navigate the bookshelves and choose any book that catches my eye without worries. With Adult, I'm dependent on reviews from close friends to pick a book, since I have had terrible experiences before.
-@latinqueenhera
I still read YA because there's so much adventure. Life as an adult can get pretty dull, and a little adventure is hard to come by. YA novels make it a little easier to break the dreary cycle of a 9-5 job and keep me excited about being alive.
-@ReadingProbably
YA is not a genre I grew up with. I moved on from children books to pretty much anything that would catch my eye, whether it was something my mom was reading or something my teachers suggested. YA was just not in my radar (and it also wasn't very popular in my country). As a queer young woman growing up in an abusive environment, I didn't get to experience a lot of things that are typically central in YA until much later, so only now I can connect with these themes and really appreciate them in a usually more light-hearted context (especially with YA contemporary). I read and love across all genres and target groups, but YA has a special place in my heart.
-@verelaurent
Here are some of the reasons I read YA (I also read MG books too!): I can relate to a lot of them more than adult fiction (I also read a ton of adult fiction).They tackle a lot of problems in today's society. They are more honest in portraying real issues, plus they all have a bit of hope in the stories -- something that is needed in today's world. I have so much more empathy for others because of the YA books I've read (and the YA book community). There is so much more diversity, [and] the books are fun, entertaining, plot-based and well-written.
-@TheresaJSnyder
As an adult, I've read just about every genre there is, and I keep returning to YA. I love reading stories about first love and figuring out who you are, and I especially appreciate the element of hope at the end of the stories. The three-dimensional characters face issues I never could have imagined as a teen, the story-lines are fast-paced, and the books regularly keep me up long past my bedtime — even on school nights.
-@melaniehoo
What are your thoughts about reading YA past the "age-appropriate" market? If you have something else to add on this topic, feel free to comment down below and share your opinions! Also be on the lookout for another post next week, where we share even more thoughts from other 18+ YA readers!
Check Out The Previous Posts:
Part One
Part Two
Part Three
Part Four
Part Five
Part Six
If you're an avid YA reader, there's no way you've escaped hearing about the stigma that surrounds the genre -- the fact that people who read YA even though they're older than the "targeted market" are often seen as immature, nostalgic, or stuck in their younger years. Recently, after our university newspaper posted an opinion piece in which the writer talked about how we all need to "read our age" -- meaning, basically, that we should break away from YA and focus on the classics such as Dickens -- we decided to send out a Tweet and ask if there were any other YA readers that were over 18 out there. Not to start trouble or stir up angry feelings, but just to see -- just how many "out of the age range" YA readers are there? Our Tweet was as follows:
SOS! 🗣 Do you read YA even though you’re 18+? If you do, please DM us or reply to this Tweet — we have a post idea, and we need your help! #replytweet
Well, it's safe to say the response we got was absolutely overwhelming. We got nearly 1,000 people over the age of 18 who wanted to tell us why they still read YA even though they're past the "marketable" age-range for the genre. We had so many amazing responses that we wanted to take the time to share them all with you -- but since there are so many, it turns out that we had to make it a series! For 10 whole weeks, we're going to be sharing 10 reasons (100 in total!) why "older" YA readers stick with the genre, and why it's important to them. So without further ado, here are 10 readers above the age of 18 who explained to us why they still read YA:
Just because you’re not a "young adult’" anymore doesn’t mean you have forgotten what it was like. Reading contemporary YA, for example, makes me reflect on my time as a "young adult" and all the crazy emotions that went with it. With something like YA fantasy, it lets me imagine what it might have been like if I had been a teenager growing up in that world and the different challenges I might have faced. The language of YA novels is also more straightforward: it is simplified and more direct, making it accessible to a wider range of readers. At 27, I am a YA author and for me, I want people of all ages -- young or young at heart -- to feel the thrill of living in my world.
-@bronwyneley
I read YA because I find more room for growth, for expression, for people being people. Adult fiction often seems so set in its ways, like no one's allowed to question things like identity or the way things are. YA fiction, whatever the genre, has more of this ability: more hope and often times, generally, better storytelling/writing. The quality, the ability to feel at home or to explore places, all while still allowed to question things about myself or situations, make YA books so special to me.
-@hermitlibrarian
I read YA (and MG) because they’re FUN! And you never grow out of fun. Both of those age categories are capable of incredible depth too, but don’t take themselves too seriously.
-@sofipasternack
I started reading YA when my kids became old enough to read chapter books. I wanted to screen, to suggest good reads and to be able to discuss with them what they were reading. My kids are now adults and I’m pretty sure I am the only one still reading YA. The characters are often inspiring. The stories may be exceedingly well written and thought provoking. These things are not unique to young adults but are part of the human experience. I think those of us no longer “young” can appreciate these gems even more than kids can!
-@kvbuchanan, Age 51
I was in a book slump for a couple of years and Young Adult fiction helped me get back into reading. I’m rather grateful to them because I love reading. I love that I can find female-led stories in the SciFi/Fantasy genre in Young Adult fiction so easily. Even before I read Young Adult fiction, I used to watch TV shows like One Tree Hill and Veronica Mars. I don’t remember there being issues with adults watching those shows so what’s the problem with adults reading YA?
-@CherieLampley
I always had a hard time articulating why I read YA as an adult. Then, in 2011, I read a School Library Journal article by Angelina Benedetti that said it perfectly: "Books for teens are designed to hook readers and keep them reading. In most cases, the first 15 pages of a YA novel introduce the protagonist(s), plot, and source of dramatic tension, something that can take nearly 50 pages in a book for adults." In my busy life, the quick hook of YA has helped me to read between 150 to 200 books a year. Regardless of the age of the protagonist, a good story will consume you. On another note, I have found that YA authors are far more responsive to fans. They will engage on social media and are quick to thank me for supportive posts. That personal touch has made me a lifelong fan of writers like Stephanie Garber, Sabaa Tahir, and Stacey Lee, to name just a few.
-@JenniferMReads
Reading is a visceral experience and most adults read for pleasure, relaxation and escapism. A lot of women, myself included, don’t want to spend our precious free time contemplating bad spouses, chemical abuse and the worst aspects of a sick society’s inhumanity. It’s my opinion that when chick lit fell out of favor with the publishing industry, readers found something new to fill the void. And they turned to YA, which feels very familiar when you view it in that context. For the record, much of YA writing is equal to or of a higher caliber than books written for adults. YA always leaves the reader with hope and often (though not always) is a light and satisfying way to dip into the world of teens and come out with a sense of awe, enthusiasm and determination that I, for one, hope to never lose no matter my age. Read on, dear readers, what you risk in sophistication points you will more than regain in positivity and a new outlook on the world. After all, our youth of today will be in charge someday. Let’s give them some credit.
-@Scarbo_author
Many YA books explore difficult and critical topics such as race, sexuality, gender, morality, life and death — the list goes on. These are best explored in the context of a YA novel, as they can be overwhelming otherwise. Packaging such topics in a YA novel allows authors to provide an entertaining and enlightening experience for readers. With the established tropes and themes of the genre, authors are often able to creatively play with readers’ expectations in unique and innovative ways. Don’t write YA off so quickly — you’re missing out if you do.
-@Arabellaasophia
YA is my favorite genre to read. I know I’m only in my 20s, so I’m not too too far off from being in high school, but it brings me back to that time and I can escape, even though I can escape in many books. Yes, it’s supposed to be geared towards 12-18 year olds, but I still relate to many of the characters. I see me in YA books more than any other genre. And anyway, why should anyone care what I read? I read for ME, not anyone else. It shouldn’t matter, as long as you’re enjoying what you read.
-@itskatiedee
I still read YA books for many reasons. I'm a 48 year old 2nd grade teacher with 9 and 5 year olds. Not only does reading YA keep me in the proverbial loop, but most of it is just good reading. There is no good reason NOT to read it. It's ageist to think big humans can't read fiction meant for younger folk. The Book Thief is still one of my favorite books. Why We Broke Up was as fantastically illustrated as it was written.
-@klmitchell
What are your thoughts about reading YA past the "age-appropriate" market? If you have something else to add on this topic, feel free to comment down below and share your opinions! Also be on the lookout for another post next week, where we share even more thoughts from other 18+ YA readers!
Check Out The Previous Posts:
Part One
Part Two
Part Three
Part Four
Part Five
If you're an avid YA reader, there's no way you've escaped hearing about the stigma that surrounds the genre -- the fact that people who read YA even though they're older than the "targeted market" are often seen as immature, nostalgic, or stuck in their younger years. Recently, after our university newspaper posted an opinion piece in which the writer talked about how we all need to "read our age" -- meaning, basically, that we should break away from YA and focus on the classics such as Dickens -- we decided to send out a Tweet and ask if there were any other YA readers that were over 18 out there. Not to start trouble or stir up angry feelings, but just to see -- just how many "out of the age range" YA readers are there? Our Tweet was as follows:
SOS! 🗣 Do you read YA even though you’re 18+? If you do, please DM us or reply to this Tweet — we have a post idea, and we need your help! #replytweet
Well, it's safe to say the response we got was absolutely overwhelming. We got nearly 1,000 people over the age of 18 who wanted to tell us why they still read YA even though they're past the "marketable" age-range for the genre. We had so many amazing responses that we wanted to take the time to share them all with you -- but since there are so many, it turns out that we had to make it a series! For 10 whole weeks, we're going to be sharing 10 reasons (100 in total!) why "older" YA readers stick with the genre, and why it's important to them. So without further ado, here are 10 readers above the age of 18 who explained to us why they still read YA:
I have been reading YA books since I became a teenager and haven’t looked back since. The stories, to me, are told through a much more optimistic and sanguine lens depending on the content matter. Even the books that tackle more challenging and relevant topics such as race, sexuality and gender do so in a light that, while not shying away from the difficulties of these issues, shows them in a more upbeat fashion that celebrates differences and equality. All genres in YA are so widely represented and can still be engaging no matter how many times you’ve delved into the story lines with Fantasy being told through fresh, engaging points of view and Romance told through angsty, awkward encounters that everyone can relate to. In YA, there’s a story for everyone and a character that we can all see ourselves as, whether it’s the geeky kid in love with the girl next door, the shy girl that no one notices but kicks butt as a vampire slayer at night or even the dad that wants his kids to stay safe, there’s something for everyone.
-@MrCatchy95
I don't think I'll ever stop reading YA. The sense of hope, how relatable the stories are, how much fun I have while reading them, isn't something I've found in other genres (and I've tried). I can be sure that whether I'm happy or sad, if I want something super romantic or super creepy, if I want to either laugh or cry the whole time, I'll find the perfect book for me in the YA section.
-@blogemdp
Reading YA when you are no longer a young adult has a stigma around it that is unjustified. I'm 34 and Dystopian YA is my preferred type of books to read. I find these stories are captivating and easy to get lost in and are often better written than their "Adult" counterparts. As a high school English teacher, I find my students are always coming to me to discuss books and they love that I read the same books they do. In fact, today alone 3 of my students rushed up to me in the hallway to gush over the cover release for a new book coming out this fall.
-@SammyRaeNL
I am 22 and I have been reading YA for almost 10 years, with no plans to switch to “grown-up” literature anytime soon. I prefer YA over “literary” fiction because it is actually fun to read and not so convinced of its own literariness that the plot is almost impossible to follow. Additionally, I like it more than New Adult/Adult Romance or Fantasy because those often neglect the actual story in favour of explicit content. Most importantly, no other genre is as diverse as YA -- it’s amazing to be able to read about so many LGBTQIA+ characters, characters from different ethnic or cultural backgrounds, etc. If YA keeps developing like it currently does, I am still going to be reading it when I’m 30 (or 50). Thanks for doing this and disproving the assumption that everybody who is technically an adult is too old for YA!
-@runsoncoffee96
Even at 21 I still enjoy reading YA because, contrary to popular belief, it tackles very serious subject matter that not only teens can identify with. We are all just a collection of memories, and if we open up to it, it becomes easy to reach into your younger self and reflect upon the issues presented in Young Adult novels of various genres. After all, age often boils down to mentality. It can become easy for adults to identify with, the fast-paced, character-driven stories this age range presents, but only if they are willing.
-@rxvel_writes
What does reading your age actually mean? Children's picture books are meant for children, however if you reread them as an adult, you will find quite a bit of philosophical meaning within the stories that a child may not fully grasp the actual depth of that meaning. There is a long list of children's books that are quite philosophical leading to metaphysical and ethical questions and thought. YA books are the same. A great many of them as well are philosophical provoking metaphysical and ethical thought. Regardless of the the genre of the YA novel, they are commenting on society figuratively, whether it be about the past, present or future and does not by any means make them less valuable to adults. If more adults read YA books, maybe they could begin to understand the fears and anxieties this age group feels instead of dismissing them as being too young or [saying] they don't know what it's like, when in fact they know more than what we as adults give them credit [for]. And just because the books in most instances are written by adults, that doesn't mean that the stories they are telling aren't a story they needed to read as a teenager. Sometimes adults forget or don't realize just how much some of these teenagers have to deal with at home, at times more than what many adults can handle.
-@ppires94
I am a 38 year old RN and writer, and read primarily YA. There is no age limit on enjoying (or writing) compelling, well told, gripping stories, and for those dismissing the genre as juvenile are missing out on some of the greatest tales of love, life and loss ever told. Stories like Five Feet Apart, The Hunger Games, To All The Boys I've Loved Before all broke boundaries (and box offices) in their respective ways, but are all YA titles that deserve attention and respect. I connect so much more to YA tales than most "adult" geared stories, and have no shame for the preference! Those who judge people for reading outside of their age bracket...I dare you to give it a try. You might be surprised. 😉
-@kristimcmanus
I am 26 and I love to read YA as it helps me switch off from the real world and makes me have a rest to help my illness & from my caring duties.
-@bethd1521993
One reason I read YA books is to discuss them my teen daughter. We are both big readers, and having read some of the same books gives us hours of great mother-daughter book talk! Even before she was old enough to read YA though, I was reading YA fantasy. There are those books aimed at younger teens that might not be my cup of tea, but I've found that most YA fantasy has well-developed characters and plot-lines that rival many of the "adult" books I read. I also doubt I'll ever be so old that I've truly forgotten what it was like to be trying to figure out life in general, and I think a lot of people look down on YA books because the characters may make foolish decisions because they are still trying to get a sense of where they belong in the world and how everything works. Honestly, I know plenty of adults who haven't figured that out yet, so it doesn't bother me at all.
-@ekehlet
I'm 43 and I read YA because I'm a mom of a 14 year old girl, and sharing books is one thing we enjoy together. Having a way to connect with my daughter is priceless. I'm a middle school language arts teacher. My students depend on me to help them keep up with book trends. I like to read!
-@savinginseconds
What are your thoughts about reading YA past the "age-appropriate" market? If you have something else to add on this topic, feel free to comment down below and share your opinions! Also be on the lookout for another post next week, where we share even more thoughts from other 18+ YA readers!
Check Out The Previous Posts:
Part One
Part Two
Part Three
Part Four
If you're an avid YA reader, there's no way you've escaped hearing about the stigma that surrounds the genre -- the fact that people who read YA even though they're older than the "targeted market" are often seen as immature, nostalgic, or stuck in their younger years. Recently, after our university newspaper posted an opinion piece in which the writer talked about how we all need to "read our age" -- meaning, basically, that we should break away from YA and focus on the classics such as Dickens -- we decided to send out a Tweet and ask if there were any other YA readers that were over 18 out there. Not to start trouble or stir up angry feelings, but just to see -- just how many "out of the age range" YA readers are there? Our Tweet was as follows:
SOS! 🗣 Do you read YA even though you’re 18+? If you do, please DM us or reply to this Tweet — we have a post idea, and we need your help! #replytweet
Well, it's safe to say the response we got was absolutely overwhelming. We got nearly 1,000 people over the age of 18 who wanted to tell us why they still read YA even though they're past the "marketable" age-range for the genre. We had so many amazing responses that we wanted to take the time to share them all with you -- but since there are so many, it turns out that we had to make it a series! For 10 whole weeks, we're going to be sharing 10 reasons (100 in total!) why "older" YA readers stick with the genre, and why it's important to them. So without further ado, here are 10 readers above the age of 18 who explained to us why they still read YA:
I read YA because it has one of the most unique and diverse stories that I have ever read. YA lets in so many marginalized authors who bring never before heard stories with them. This lets me and so many others seeing themselves in stories, which brings validation and power to people who didn't have it before.
-@Lizzy_reads
As a 25 year old woman, a mother of two children, and a wife, I refuse to put a restriction on the books I read, regardless of their targeted audience. I am able to enjoy a middle grade novel, an adult thriller, or a young adult fantasy all the same. The reason for this is because I love a well rounded story, great characters, and a healthy dose of hope in the novels I read. I primarily gravitate towards young adult fantasy because I live in a world of political despair and it brings me joy to read about young people overcoming the odds and changing their world for the better. In my opinion, the only point in reading is to enjoy yourself and read what makes you happy.
-@lunalestrange90
I'm eighteen and I still read YA because as I grew out of middle grade books I knew I wanted to keep reading, and YA gave me not only good books, but some of the most influential books I wouldn't have read otherwise. There are so many good YA books coming out all the time, I don't see myself stopping anytime soon.
-@abbieg779
I read young adult novels because they are what inspired me to be a writer, reading them at my age now brings back the magic I felt when I was younger. I read them because they're not edgy, or dark. They're funny, and heartwarming. I read young adult novels because adulthood is hard, and sometimes it's nice to remember what it was like before maturity made everything so dull.
-@iamlaineslater
I read YA books (specifically of the fantasy/magic fiction genre) because of many things. Partly because, to me, the writing and creativity levels of YA books far exceed those of adult books. In my opinion, YA books are infinitely more interesting. They allow the reader to journey to a magical world to escape from the real world for a while. I started reading YA when I was 12 and I still read it to this day. I don’t need to “grow up” and read things my age, because YA books are written for everyone, regardless of how old the main characters are. Anyone can read YA and appreciate the brilliance and imagination that goes into writing such engaging books. “Young adult” does not mean an age limit.
-@hogwartsgrad_7
I am 32 years old and I read a solid mixture of both YA and adult fiction, in all genres (though I prefer SFF). There are many reasons I still read YA despite being well out of range of its target audience. YA books tend to be fast-paced page-turners, as well as very concept-heavy, which makes them fun to read! They're also heavy on emotion, something that gets sacrificed in a lot of the adult epic fantasies I've read. Therefore, it's easy to connect with the characters and care about the outcome of the story.
-@SerraSwift
I think it is important that everyone reads what they enjoy. If people are forced or expected to read a book they are not interested in, it could put them off of reading. I read all sorts of books from many different genres on various apps, actual "real" books or my Kindle. I’ve always loved reading, could read before I started school and even used to help my teacher listen to my classmates read! Since my grandson came to live with me aged 8, four years ago, I have read many children’s books with, and to him, rereading some books I read as a child. Now he is 12 and is an excellent reader and he says “You should read this, Nanny,” and sometimes I do! I find reading books aimed at young teens is a nice escape from reality; often having to use imagination which I think we can, as adults lose. Children’s and young teen’s books can still be a challenge, just in a different way!
-@dorestgirlie
I’m 42 years old, and I’m a reader. Although I read a lot and from various genres, fantasy is my top favorite. When browsing for good fantasy, I visit both sides of the bookstore: adult and YA. The YA section can no longer be discounted by lovers of fantasy: there are plenty of highly-imaginative, original and well-written works, and if the synopsis sounds good, I don’t care what shelf the book sits on. Also, YA books usually have sharper dialogue and less explicit violence, and these both go in the plus column, as far as I’m concerned.
-@BookishExpat
I didn't read during my adolescent years or during my twenties until I rediscovered my love of reading after turning thirty. I felt as though I missed out on something quite remarkable, discovering new worlds through fiction. So when I returned to reading through Twilight and then discovered The Hunger Games, [I continued] to be captivated by the range of narratives within young adult.
-@divabooknerd
I still read YA because YA books reached out to me as a teen; a few years ago during a tough time. I grew up with these authors that spoke to me through their stories. To this day, they still do wonders for me. I have had the privilege to meet so many amazing people (both teens and adults), which has truly enhanced me as a person.
-@zainabjabak
What are your thoughts about reading YA past the "age-appropriate" market? If you have something else to add on this topic, feel free to comment down below and share your opinions! Also be on the lookout for another post next week, where we share even more thoughts from other 18+ YA readers!
Check Out The Previous Posts:
Part One
Part Two
Part Three
