GUESTOPIA: SPECIAL GUESTS!

Hey lovely YAtopians! Welcome back to Guestopia. I have some super special guests for March, so you’ll notice that the format is a wee different than usual. I am a bit excited about today’s guests. I have interviewed them before and never get tired of their enthusiasm for life, not to mention books! So, let’s get started. Please welcome the crew of…

LOVE AT FIRST CHAPTER

This group of fabulously talented YA writers were all selected in Round 3 of Author Mentor Match and became fast friends during that time. Books make them happy and sharing that love makes them happier! 

They are:

Gracie Goldhart

Louisa Onomé

Julie Abe

Kate Havas

Dakota Shain Byrd

Erika L. Cruz

Heidi Christopher

Emily Beck

Lorna Riley

Michelle Fohlin

Katherine Pisana

Susan Lee

Find out more about each of them right here… www.loveatfirstchapter.com

Right, introductions done, let's get going with the interview! 

Thanks for joining me today, Love at First Chapter! I’m thrilled to host you. So, for the new readers who haven’t heard of your fabulousness, tell me first up what exactly is Love at First Chapter. 

Love At First Chapter is a biweekly young adult fiction newsletter that introduces the first chapter of an upcoming or new release to subscribers. With each newsletter, subscribers can “fall in love” with the book and either purchase or preorder it at the end of the email. It’s a fun reader resource that allows a wider audience to sample new, diverse releases -- and introduces authors to more engaged readers who are likely to be interested in their book. A win-win for everyone involved!

You guys are all YA writers and met during Author Mentor Match. But how did you go from not knowing each other to setting up this amazing new service for YA book lovers?

Amidst talk of revisions and drafts, Graci Goldhart, our founder, introduced the idea as a fun way to promote upcoming YA releases we’re excited for. The rest happened pretty quickly after that. We set up the website, assigned roles, came up with a list of our most anticipated releases, and prepared for our Valentine’s Day launch.

What’s different about the reader service you’re providing?

All the books selected for Love At First Chapter have been recommended by one of our curators. That means we’ve read and can vouch for the book, have enjoyed it, and want to share it with others. We like to think of it as an unconventional book club of sorts: recommending books and building a community based on readership.

Why should readers sign up?

We’re unlike any other YA newsletter or book service -- it’s 100% free to sign up (and will remain that way!) and you get a surprise first chapter of a new or upcoming YA release straight to your inbox. Like the chapter? Purchase or preorder through links in the newsletter. Don’t like the chapter? Feel free to delete the email. It’s pressure-free and only aims to spread our love of books.

Why YA books?

Young adult fiction centers around, and is catered to, young people, who arguably are going through one of the most dynamic times in their lives. They are forming opinions about their environment and themselves, and using those opinions to create their world. We believe a greater sense of diversity in YA fiction is necessary -- to allow young people to dream bigger, to create a greater sense of acceptance amongst YA readers, to create the kind of world that doesn’t just tolerate, but accepts every kind of person. YA is such a transformative readership because of its reach. As YA (and MG) writers ourselves, we want to see more diverse works and debuts, and wanted the chance to introduce reads we feel can make a difference. 

Will you offer other services on the site in the future?

Though our focus currently lies with curating YA releases, we’d love to eventually create a community where readers can connect with one another. Watch this space! 

Will you share only standalone novels, or do you intend to share books within a series too?

We are open to sharing both. If the first book in a series is highly anticipated and we’re also really excited for it, then we’d love to feature it!

Will it be only novels, or will you share anthologies or perhaps novellas as well?

As of now, we’re focused on sharing YA novels, but may open to anthologies in the future. There are so many good ones coming out lately!

Will you share only traditionally published books or indie and self published as well?

We focus on traditionally published books.

Will you only share already published books or forthcoming titles too?

Some books we share are new releases that may have just come out within the past six months to a year, but our goal is to share more forthcoming titles to help authors build hype -- and hopefully boost preorders!

Will you only share diverse books? What if you accidentally get a chapter for a book that turns out to be problematic, like THE CONTINENT?

We aim to boost diverse voices, so a majority of the books we share will be diverse or #ownvoices. We read ARCs for each book we recommend in hopes we never end up recommending a book like THE CONTINENT. As writers, our names are on this project and we want to maintain a level of integrity when curating.

Why diverse books?

Why not diverse books? We live in a diverse world. Media should always reflect that. Seeing yourself in a book for the very first time is a life-changing moment because you realize you can be the hero too.

Michelle: As a history and geography nerd, I have always been drawn to the diversity of cultures in our world. I have always sought out books with rich worlds and characters that don’t necessarily reflect my own identity. And there are millions of kids who deserve to see their experiences in their words they read. It’s life-changing when you realize that someone who looks, sounds, loves, acts like you is a hero too.

Do you have any diversity that you identify with?

Shain: Yes. To start with, I’m queer as all get out. Physically only into guys, but I’m Bi-romantic, and gender-fluid. Beyond that I’m epileptic, and live with clinical depression, severe anxiety, and ADHD.

Louisa: Nigerian-Canadian, first gen! Also being from Montreal and not speaking any French (this is a Canadian joke, sorry!) 

Graci: I’m a proud Kowi (Korean-Kiwi), 1.5 gen, and visually impaired. Oh, and I live in Middle Earth (only partially kidding - New Zealand is basically Hobbitland)

What are your day jobs? If you’re in school, what’re you studying? Anybody doing an internship or other program like that?

Shain: I’m an American Sign Language Interpretation student in Fort Worth. Regarding internships, I have one with Entangled Teen. When I’m not studying or doing things for my internship or AMM mentorship, I also work as a freelance editor. Be sure to check out my website if you’re interested in learning more about all this!

Lisa: I work for the school district in the High school Library. I manage the circulation desk for both books and computers. I love it. I get to talk about books with students and it’s so great to connect with them over stories we’ve both read. I’ve also run into some fellow writers as well.

Julie Abe: During the day, I work in digital marketing for a healthcare company. At night, I write middle grade and young adult stories.

Louisa: I’m a SEO consultant during the day.

Heidi: I’m an editor with a small publishing house and when I’m not working on client material, i’m writing YA. 

Graci: I’m a diplomat for the New Zealand foreign service by day. 

Michelle: I currently make my unpaid living caring for my two precocious, adorable littles. But I’ve put in years as a history teacher, which is where I draw my ideas for my books from.

OMG. Aren’t they the best? And, obviously, if you haven’t already signed up to their newsletter (the next one is coming out THIS WEEK!) then I have no doubt you’re rushing off to do that right now. J If you need me to make this even easier for you...  

CLICK HERE NOW

Thank you, gang, it’s been a pleasure!

Writing Still Matters

A funny thing happens when I tell people I'm a Young Adult author. Too often the response is something along the lines of "that's nice, too bad kids don't read anymore" followed by "and they think texting is writing, so say goodbye to books in the future."

Now those of us entrenched in this KidLit world immediately want to scoff at such absurdity. But I also know that sometimes when you are in the bubble, it's hard to see past the bubble. So I did some Googling to see who's right.

And our little KidLit bubble is not the one being popped. I write more about the results here, but for now, let me assure you that teens are reading and teens are writing--and not just via texts.

Not only do teens believe writing is important, they actually don’t consider their social media interactions to be writing. And this is the best part, the books of the future are safe because teens also want to write creatively. They are especially motivated to write creatively when they get to choose their own topics and receive feedback from engaged adults.

Aha, and that's where we come in. This means if we want teens today to write the books of tomorrow, we have a role to play.

This makes me even more excited to be a member of the Freshman Fifteens. Way before I found this study about teen writing, our group of fifteen authors with Young Adult books debuting in 2015 had made working with teen readers and writers our core mission.

Freshman Fifteens and Wattpad Partner in Teen Mentoring Contest

Our first joint project is underway right now. We have partnered with Wattpad, a community of more than 25 million readers and writers, to give teens the unique experience of what it’s like to be a debut author.

In the contest, dubbed COMMON ROOM, the winning teen writers will experience the process of having a book published, from the “query” stage where they pitch us their short story idea, to getting their “deal” when a Freshman Fifteens author selects them as their mentee, to working with their author as they would a book editor, going through two rounds of revisions, through the copy edit stage, cover reveal, release date, and—finally!—book launch.

The finished collection of fictional short stories will be published as an anthology, titled COMMON ROOM, on Wattpad, debuting in January 2015.

After finding this study, we are even more thrilled to be serving as mentors and will be running more projects this year and next to help make sure those books of the future keep on coming.

If you are inspired by these statistics, get out there and find a teen of your own to mentor. Go the local route by putting the word out at your nearby libraries and high schools. Or put out a call on social media and donate your time to critique a teen’s short story or chapter. Even better, hop on Wattpad, where millions of teens are writing every day. Read a story or two and leave a comment. Give that much needed feedback from an engaged adult.

The COMMON ROOM contest is accepting entries from teens ages 13-19 through July 25, 2014.

Full details on the contest including all the dates and how to enter can be found here. Or just swing by Wattpad and type “Freshman Fifteens COMMON ROOM Teen Mentoring Contest” into the search field.

The Freshman Fifteens would love it if you’d join our cause and help spread the word to all the teen writers you know and love!

Follow me on Twitter or my Web site and the Freshman Fifteens on Twitter, Facebook, Tumblr, or our blog to find out more about the winners and read their stories in the COMMON ROOM anthology in January.

Lori Goldstein is the author of Becoming Jinn (Feiwel and Friends/Macmillan, Spring 2015, sequel, Spring 2016). With a degree in journalism and more than 10 years of experience, Lori is a freelance copyeditor and manuscript consultant for all genres. She focuses on the nitty-gritty, letting writers focus on the writing.

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Let's Talk About Sex in On-Screen YA

Sex in young adult fiction is an often-discussed and hot-button topic for some. Whether or not to include it in YA novels, how to include it, how much detail to go into and whether or not teenage sex should have some kind of consequence and thereby transmit a lesson to the presumably young reader. For writers of YA, these are all valid concerns especially considering the number of adult readers and how easily sex between teens might overstep the bounds of decency.

It's no secret that I'm a huge fan of teen TV shows from the old like Roswell and Buffy to the more recent like The Vampire Diaries, Star-Crossed, The Tomorrow People and The 100. Recently, however, I began to feel uncomfortable watching certain scenes in these series. I am not a prude. Quite the opposite actually, but I do think we need to draw the line...somewhere.

***spoiler alert: I'm going to talk about certain relationships that might spoil some of these shows if you haven't seen them so look away now if you need to***

Still with me?

Great!

Okay, so when I was a teenager, watching Max and Tess peel off each other's clothes in Roswell and lose their virginity to each other or watching Buffy and Angel get steamy seemed real and romantic and exciting and I had no qualms about living vicariously through those characters. Fast forward a decade or so and cue the queasy.

In recent episodes of The Tomorrow People, 17yr old Steven (played by 26yr old Robbie Amell) has some serious sexy times on screen. I'm not gonna lie. Mr Amell is easy on the eyes and I had zero problem watching him lose clothes on screen before taking his love interest to bed. The realization, however, hit my like a Hulk smash to the gut. I'm not watching a 26yr old engaging in adult, consensual sex on screen. I'm actually watching a 17yr old character get undressed and into bed with an older woman. That's statutory rape and that's not sexy. Needless to say, this did not sit well with me. I teach 16yr old boys, roughly the same age as the character on screen. Would it be okay for me to watch one of them getting steamy in real life? No, no, no, a million times no it would not. Is it different, yes, but not nearly different enough.

An official add campaign for the show featuring the 17yr old main character

Cue Star-Crossed, a show whose main male characters are both supposed to be juniors in high school, but are played by 31yr old Matt Lanter and 29yr old Greg Finley. Watching those two shed their clothes and get into raunchy scenes is hawt, but I'm not watching adults - they're playing teenagers and I'm watching teenage boys getting naked with teenage girls! The dichotomy and misrepresentation here leaves me feeling nauseated to say the least. And I'm not alone in not knowing how to feel about what I'm watching on screen.

I've seen comments all over the Internet from adults giving themselves 'permission' to drool over the male lead in everything from Divergent to Star-Crossed because of the age of the actor playing the character. I admit, I too have been falling into this trap and it's all kinds of perilous because Four (Divergent) isn't 29 - he's 18 and only just 'legal', Roman (Star-Crossed) isn't 31 - he's 17, and even 16yr old Max in Roswell was played by then 26yr old Jason Behr, who is now 40! The guy I drooled over as a tween was more than double my age! 0.o

We're objectifying teenage boys, because the way they're presented on screen is as men when really, they're children - regardless of when they started shaving or how broad their shoulders are. And this isn't something that only happens to the boys of fiction although it seems more socially acceptable for older woman to perv over younger guys than it does for older men to do the same to younger women. I do not understand this double-standard, but it exists.

So back to sex in YA books. Sex is a normal, healthy part of growing up and would be conspicuous by it's absence were it kept out of YA books. I think sex definitely does belong in YA, but the way in which it's written needs to be handled carefully, not in the 'premarital sex is bad' kind of preachy way, but rather so as not to exploit our teenage characters for the titillation of adult readers. I've seen many an editor say that if the scene would get you arrested for filming it in real life, you've gone too far in the writing, but the thing is, we do see these scenes in TV and movies all the time. Were those actors actually the age of the characters they're playing, the director would get arrested, but because older actors are used, the scenes are considered fine even when they're not. We forget that we're not watching two consenting adults on screen, but rather two fumbling teenagers.

I'm not sure where to draw the line or what the right answer is, but I wish more people were talking about this because I can't be the only one feeling a little uncomfortable when hordes of squealing adult fans - sometimes myself included - want to see teenage characters (when played by adult actors) get undressed.

What are your thoughts about sex in on-screen YA? How do you feel about the sexual content of YA TV shows and films?

Advice for Young Writers

I was at the Amelia Island Book Festival this past weekend (picture below - check out my new 'do!) as my alter-ego.

In the afternoon, an adorable girl in her teens came up to me. She was obviously nervous, fidgeting constantly. Without any introduction she said, "What advice do you have for young writers?"

I rambled on for a bit and I'm sure I hit most of the important parts, but I thought about it later. Here's what I wish I could have told her:

1) You're already on the right track. If you're reading this blog post. If you're going to book festivals to meet authors and ask them this question, you are so far ahead of the game that I kind wish I were you right now.

2) Keep going. There is one thing every writing career has in common: at some point, it's going to suck so hard you can't imagine continuing. Does it make it easier that every writer has gone through the same thing at some point? Probably not. But at least you know it's not just you.

3) Every word you write makes you a better writer. None of us come out of the womb with a publishable book. Honestly? Your writing probably isn't good enough yet. (Godiva knows my first book wasn't even close.) But you will be, if you stick with it and are willing to learn.

4) Read. Read everything. Inside your chosen genre, and especially outside of it. Stuff from this century, and every century before it. Male authors, female authors, genderqueer authors. Poetry, non-fiction, fantasy, mystery, romance, sci-fi, philosophy, literary. Everything. Once you've read every single book you have access to, read them again. Never, ever stop reading.

5) Remember: publishing is a business. This one is particularly hard to tell an eager teenager. Yes, writing is an art. But publishing is a business. They're closely related, but they're not the same. The earlier you can learn to compartmentalize the two, the more sane you'll be.

Lastly: Good luck.

What advice would you give to young writers?

What is teen?

I spoke to a young friend the other day.  And when I say young, I mean age 16, slap bang in the middle of her teenage years.  And when I say friend, I don't mean "student", "niece", "friend's daughter" or "some other name label for the teenagers I know".  I actually mean friend.

So what's with the distinction, I hear you ask?

Simple.  I'm thirty two, too old to be a teenager by a very long shot.  However, that doesn't mean I can't relate to those of younger years.  In fact, it's a vital part of being a YA writer that I DON'T treat teenagers as if I am their authority figure, or they are my inferior.  Yes, I'm old-fashioned and do believe that people should respect their elders.  I respect mine.  However, I'm also modern enough to realize that understanding that teenagers are just as mentally capable as adults are is vital.  The difference between adults and teenagers is widely based on LIFE EXPERIENCE.  Adults have it, teenagers need it.  What doesn't change is emotions, mental processing and personality type.

Sure, all these things can be adjusted as you grow.  You learn not to be the school bully, you get more confidence, maybe you get less confident.  Life shapes and moulds us.  However, if you really want to learn what it is that makes teenagers different from adults, you need to go straight to the source.  And you need to listen.

While some people might think listening to the topics teenagers talk about is boring (my I-pad broke and it's a disaster, I don't have the right shoes for school, Davie asked me out, I got a freaking facebook account at last,  my parents are always on my ass), the savvy YA writer LISTENS.  And observes.  And then talks.  Finds out WHY these things are important.  Here's a little highlight into what I learned:

1)  My I-Pad broke and it's a disaster = I'm cut off from my peers.  A part of my independence is restricted.

2)  I don't have the right shoes for school = I don't fit in.  No one will like me.  I'm not as normal as everyone else.  I'll stand out and look bad.

3)  Davie asked me out = I feel accepted.  I feel beautiful and popular.  I feel I've achieved something.

4)  I got a freaking facebook account at last = I'm no longer an outcast.  I have some extra freedom.

5)  My parents are always on my ass = I need room to be me.  I feel stifled.  I need space.


So, while the topic they choose to express themselves isn't one you relish talking about, why not listen to the EMOTION behind it.  I'm sure you've felt cut off from your peers, that no one will like you, that you feel accepted or beautiful, you have freedom or a lack of it.  As adults, we just have them on a different level (I lost my work contacts, I can't afford that party dress, my landlord is on my ass, etc).

For me, when someone asks me "what is teen"?  I say:  "It's me...without the life experience."

Because in essence, we are who we are.  I'm still going to be me at 104.

Teentopia: Samuel

Teentopia is a monthly feature here on YAtopia where we ask real teens questions about what they like to read and how they choose the books they read. For more information and more Teentopia posts, click here.

This week, we're interviewing Samuel. Please tell us a little about yourself.

My name is Sam. I am a nineteen-year-old college sophomore and I like to surf the internet, read, and participate in campus activities for fun. I am a member of Student Senate, a religious life group, a local social fraternity, and a national service fraternity at my current college. I study education and am still exploring what it is that I want to do. I love to socialize and do all sorts of things. In fact, sometimes I’m that person that does a little too much in school.

How many books do you think you read in a year?

I read about five pleasure reading books a year because I take my time reading and I have a lot of academic reading to do. If I included all of my textbooks you could multiply the books I read by five or more. Since I haven’t taken an English class lately, these books aren’t often novels. However, It’s still reading.

What are some of your favorite recently-read books?

One of my favorite books that I have recently read is Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs. It’s a real thriller and it includes old-timey photographs that give it a real flare. I love how he made an entire story around them. It’s like a thriller/adventure/fantasy that combines themes from X-Men, Harry Potter, A Series of Unfortunate Events, and Percy Jackson in a way that makes it a world of its own. It’s a great book that I had a hard time putting down once I got going.

How do you find out about and choose books that aren't assigned in school?

I find out in a variety of ways. I go to bookstores and libraries and ask for suggestions, I look up reviews of books, and I even peruse the selections in my favorite areas and read the back sleeves of books. Some books are non-fiction and about history or language, most are YA novels, because I still cannot resist them. I also love classics. I just wish I had the time to read as much pleasure reading as I wanted to.

On a related note, do you read reviews before you decide to read a book? Where?

I do read reviews.  Look on Amazon, Barnes and Noble.com, and sometimes I search Google if I’m not satisfied. But it’s not too hard to find decent book reviews if you look at the right places. Book stores’ websites tend to have great reviews because they are written by bookworms. ^^

Do you read author's blogs/facebooks/twitters? If yes: before you read their book or after - and what kind of content do you like to see?

I do read two authors’ social media pages/feeds. I read those of JK Rowling and John Green. The former is amazing and my childhood hero. I love to see what she is doing and what she’s up to next and her Twitter made me borrow a copy of The Casual Vacancy from a friend. The latter is entertaining and I love to read his twitter feed and watch his YouTube videos, however, I have been unable to make the time to read a book of his yet.

What kind of covers draw your attention?

To be honest, anything without a cheesy teenage couple on the cover attracts my attention. It makes me stop for a second and think, hmm, this may be worth my effort and time. But what really catches my eye is something with simplicity, but class and grace. I also get caught by covers that are abnormal, depict nature, or deserve some kind of explanation, which forces me to read the back. Not all of them really affect my attraction to the book, but ones that kind of give away that the genre is one I’m not really into make me not want to read them. I look more at titles and the back of book though. However, I feel like sometimes the covers do affect how seriously I take the books.

Do you feel like YA books accurately represent teen culture? How so?

I feel like it accurately represents different groups of teens. I feel that each genre can represent a different culture within “teen-dom”. But one group within teen culture may not agree with what represents them when compared to another. I think there are books for every teen out there, you just have to know where to look for them.

Is there anything (themes, character types, genres, time periods, etc) you'd like to see more of in YA books?

I would love to see more unique ideas. It gets tiresome seeing the same old thing over and over again. I like entering a whole new world. Some books that are good examples of how I’ve found that world are Divergent by Veronica Roth, The Percy Jackson Series , The Thirteenth Tale by Dianne Setterfield, and The Poisonwood Bible by Barbara Kingsolver.

Anything you want to see less of?

Vampires, vampires, vampires. I am done with and not interested in paranormal romance. I hate seeing it crowd the shelves. It was never really good and now it irritates me when I go to Barnes and Nobel and see it covering the shelves.

How do you read books? (paper, e-reader, phone, audio, etc)

I read paper, audio, and e-reader books. I own a Kindle and use it just as much as paper books. I really appreciate all of the formats that a book can come in and sometimes audio books even help me focus on what I’m reading. So really I’m a proponent of all formats. I actually get really frustrated with people who limit themselves to one type out of a form of disdain for change or lack of change. I think many mediums offer many ways to receive books. Plus, e-books are cheaper, which is nice for my shallow college pockets. :)_

What do you think about all the YA books that have recently been made into movies?
It depends on the book. I loved the movie of The Lightning Thief. I really didn’t like Twilight as a book or movie. It depends on the movie and the quality of the literature, I guess.

What book have you read that you think deserves more attention?

Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs. It’s really good. Trust me.

What novel are you most looking forward to in the next year?

I never really know what’s coming out until it’s out, but I have a lot on my list. I am excited to read The Hunger Games next, but I know I’m behind by a lot.

Do you use any book-specific sites to keep track of what you've read?

Not really. At one point in time I used this site with shelves, but I stopped using it in high school.

What's the most important element to you: characters, plot, writing style?

To have a new world fold in front of my eyes and be able to journey with the character. I love the mystique and adventure of a world unique to a novel. The character needs to be relatable, though, and the plot and writing style need a flow that can draw you in with each step they take on their journey.

Have you ever seen a book trailer? If so, did it make you want to read the book? What do you think about them?

Yes. Actually, the book Witch and Wizard by James Patterson had an awesome trailer that made me read the book. I think they’re a pretty neat way to get YA’s involved in literature.

Thanks so much for your thoughtful answers, Sam!

Teentopia: Kingsley & Milo

Teentopia is a monthly feature here on YAtopia where we ask real teens questions about what they like to read and how they choose the books they read. For more information and more Teentopia posts, click here.

This week, we're interviewing two students, Kingsley and Milo both between the age of 12-15.

Kingsley in blue.

Milo in red.
 

What are some of your favorite recently-read books?

In Cold Blood
Face
Holes

Wolf Brother

How do you find out about and choose books that aren't assigned in school?

Go on book websites and read book reviews to see if it is good.
 
My parents give it to me if they said it's good.

On a related note, do you read reviews before you decide to read a book? Where?

Yes, I read reviews on book websites.

No.

Do you read author's blogs/facebooks/twitters? If yes: before you read their book or after - and what kind of content do you like to see?

No.

No.

What kind of covers draw your attention?

Adventure and mystery.
 
Scary, horror ones.

Do you feel like YA books accurately represent teen culture? How so?

No, because they use a lot of stereotypes such as in Face, they show that youths steal, burn things and are uncontrollable. 


No.

Is there anything (themes, character types, genres, time periods, etc) you'd like to see more of in YA books?

N/A

No.

Anything you want to see less of?

Stereotypes.

Fantasy.

How do you read books? (paper, e-reader, phone, audio, etc)

Books, phone (blackberry).

Paper books.

What do you think about all the YA books that have recently been made into movies?


They are good.

They are all quite similar.

What book have you read that you think deserves more attention?

N/A.

Wolf Brother.

What novel are you most looking forward to in 2012?

Percy Jackson.

I'm not sure.

Do you use any book-specific sites to keep track of what you've read?

No.

No.
 

What's the most important element to you: characters, plot, writing style?

Plot.
 
Plot.

Have you ever seen a book trailer? If so, did it make you want to read the book? What do you think about them?

No.
 
No.

Thank you both for answering these questions! 

Teentopia: Aishwarya and Melis

Teentopia is a monthly feature here on YAtopia where we ask real teens questions about what they like to read and how they choose the books they read. For more information and more Teentopia posts, click here.

This week, we're interviewing two students, Aishwarya and Melis both between the age of 12-15.

Aishwarya in blue.

Melis in red.
 

What are some of your favorite recently-read books?

Jane Eyre
Anderson's Fairytales
Ghost Box 
Danni Minogue autobiography

N/A

How do you find out about and choose books that aren't assigned in school?

Sometimes I see them on adverts and sometimes when I go book shopping and I read the summary, I might like it.
 
By friends recommending books or I just buy one from the shop.

On a related note, do you read reviews before you decide to read a book? Where?

No, I first read the summary.

No, because everyone has different views on books.

Do you read author's blogs/facebooks/twitters? If yes: before you read their book or after - and what kind of content do you like to see?

No, I don't.

No, because if I read a blog about a book, I think it ruins the experience of the surprise of the book.

What kind of covers draw your attention?

Something intriguing like a scary picture or something. Or a famous celebrity because I love autobiographies and Jacqueline Wilson books with bright colours.

Ones that don't give away too much information about the book.

Do you feel like YA books accurately represent teen culture? How so?

Not really because if you're a teenager, you can read an adult book if you want to.

No, because some Young Adult books are too childish and some are too inappropriate.

Is there anything (themes, character types, genres, time periods, etc) you'd like to see more of in YA books?

N/A

Not really.

Anything you want to see less of?

No.

Less inappropriate stuff because they stereotypically describe and make out bad things about teenagers.

How do you read books? (paper, e-reader, phone, audio, etc)

Paper.

I like the feeling of touching and reading paperback or hardback books.

What do you think about all the YA books that have recently been made into movies?


Really good because some people might see the movie and want to actually read the book.




I think they aren't good because it ruins the experience of visualising the characters the way you want to because they are already there.

What book have you read that you think deserves more attention?

Hans Anderson Fairytales.

N/A

What novel are you most looking forward to in 2012?

A book by Chanelle Gray 'My Heart Be Damned' - *please note that I totally did not bribe her into saying this*

Any good ones that aren't boring and ones that can easily make you feel like a part of the story.

Do you use any book-specific sites to keep track of what you've read?

No

No, but I use an app on my phone that helps me keep track of the books I have read.
 

What's the most important element to you: characters, plot, writing style?

Plot, because that's the whole point of the story.

Everything, because if the plot is a let down, then the story isn't good, even if there are really good characters.

Have you ever seen a book trailer? If so, did it make you want to read the book? What do you think about them?

Yes, once in my English class and it looked really good and I wanted to read it.

No, because I have never seen a book trailer.

Thank you both for answering these questions! 

Teentopia: Jesse

On the 18th of every month, we interview average teen readers about books and reading. To see all of the past Teentopia interviews, click here.

This month for Teentopia we have an interview with that rare wild creature we hardly ever get to hear from in the book/writing blogging world: the very occasional reader! 

Jesse is a sixteen year old high school student who likes to go camping, ride dirt-bikes, and hang out with his friends. His mom also added that he spends his time playing video games, doing homework (though not much time), texting friends (mostly girlfriend), driving (just got his license), snowboarding, watching BBC shows about cars, and building computers.

What are some of your favorite recently-read books?
Hunger games, harry potter, artemis fowl series

How do you find out about and choose books that aren't assigned in school?

friends/ movies

On a related note, do you read reviews before you decide to read a book? Where?
Never

Do you read author's blogs/facebooks/twitters? If yes: before you read their book or after - and what kind of content do you like to see?

No

What kind of covers draw your attention?

Nice design, not plain, actiony

Do you feel like YA books accurately represent teen culture? How so?

Sometimes, most aren't up to date

Is there anything (themes, character types, genres, time periods, etc) you'd like to see more of in YA books?
future time, present time, more action

Anything you want to see less of?

romance

How do you read books? (paper, e-reader, phone, audio, etc)
phone, paper

What do you think about all the YA books that have recently been made into movies?

hunger games was good, most aren't

What book have you read that you think deserves more attention?

black hawk down

What novel are you most looking forward to in 2012?

Not sure

Do you use any book-specific sites to keep track of what you've read?

No

What's the most important element to you: characters, plot, writing style?

easy to understand writing style

Have you ever seen a book trailer? If so, did it make you want to read the book? What do you think about them?

Never have


Thanks so much to Jesse for answering our questions!

Teentopia: Chase and Jamie

Teentopia is a monthly feature here on YAtopia where we ask real teens questions about what they like to read and how they choose the books they read. For more information and more Teentopia posts, click here.

This week, we're interviewing two brothers, Chase and Jamie.

Chase is turning 17 on the 27th (Happy Early Birthday!) He's a junior in high school and likes to play video games and build models. After high school he plans to pursue a degree in mechanical engineering.

Jamie is a college freshman studying computer engineering. In his spare time he plays video games, ultimate Frisbee, and goes out with his friends.
 

What are some of your favorite recently-read books?

The Skulduggery Pleasant series by Derek Landy
The Monstrumologist by Rick Yancy
The Gone Series by Michael Grant

The Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy – Douglas Adams
The Son of Neptune – Rick Riordan
The Hunger Games – Suzanne Collins
Artemis Fowl: The Atlantis Complex – Eoin Colfer

How do you find out about and choose books that aren't assigned in school?

Actually, my mom recommends them to me.

Either by word of mouth, or by seeing an interesting title or cover.

On a related note, do you read reviews before you decide to read a book? Where?

No.

I do not read reviews before reading a book.

Do you read author's blogs/facebooks/twitters? If yes: before you read their book or after - and what kind of content do you like to see?

No.

After I read a good book I will check the author's blog for future release dates.

What kind of covers draw your attention?

I don’t have a preference.

Covers that show a scene from the book.

Do you feel like YA books accurately represent teen culture? How so?

I think that YA books more closely represent preteen culture, they are too innocent for teen culture.

Is there anything (themes, character types, genres, time periods, etc) you'd like to see more of in YA books?

Sci-fi, comedy, fantasy and horror

I'd like to see more Sci-fi YA books.

Anything you want to see less of?

Romance

Vampires.

How do you read books? (paper, e-reader, phone, audio, etc)

The old fashioned way—those paper things that have covers and that aren’t powered by batteries.

I read hard copies of books, preferably paper back.

What do you think about all the YA books that have recently been made into movies?

Most YA books I've read that were made into movies are good books, but with the exception of the Hunger Games none of the movies have accurately represented the book.

What book have you read that you think deserves more attention?

Interworld by Neil Gaiman and Michael Reaves

The Red Pyramid – Rick Riordan

What novel are you most looking forward to in 2012?

Fear by Michael Grant

Artemis Fowl: The Last Guardian by Eoin Colfer

The Mark of Athena by Rick Riordan.

Do you use any book-specific sites to keep track of what you've read?

No

No.
 

What's the most important element to you: characters, plot, writing style?

They’re all important, but if I had to choose one, I’d say, plot.

Plot, with likeable characters being a close second.

Have you ever seen a book trailer? If so, did it make you want to read the book? What do you think about them?

No.

I have never seen a book trailer.

Teentopia: Lucy

Teentopia is a monthly feature here on YAtopia where we ask real teens questions about what they like to read and how they choose the books they read. For more information and more Teentopia posts, click here.

This week, we're interviewing Lucy, younger sister of our very own Wendy Higgins. Lucy is in the 10th grade and says this about herself: "I'm what most people would call a girly girl. I love doing hair and makeup and I plan on becoming a cosmetologist."

What are some of your favorite recently-read books?


The House of Night Series, Water for Elephants and The Vampire Academy Series.

How do you find out about and choose books that aren't assigned in school?

My Lovely Sister, Wendy Higgins, gives me most of the books I read. Whenever she finds one that she enjoyed she'll always mention it to me!

On a related note, do you read reviews before you decide to read a book? Where?

No, I don't think I've ever read a review on a book.

Do you read author's blogs/facebooks/twitters? If yes: before you read their book or after - and what kind of content do you like to see?

I can't say I've looked on an authors blog either!

What kind of covers draw your attention?

I prefer covers that have people rather then a drawn cover. 

Do you feel like YA books accurately represent teen culture? How so?

I do. I think that since it is written for young adults they capture the way teens now act or want to act.

Is there anything (themes, character types, genres, time periods, etc) you'd like to see more of in YA books?

I would like books that are a little sad, not depressing though. I love chick flicks so if I cry during a book then it's defiantly a good thing! 

Anything you want to see less of?

Vampires! Even though I fell in love with two series recently dealing with vampires, I think that many authors thought that vampires were an easy way to write a good book. Don't get me wrong, there are many books that are good but the rave for those kinds of books have dropped.

How do you read books? (paper, e-reader, phone, audio, etc)

I read both paperback and on my iPad.

What do you think about all the YA books that have recently been made into movies?

I'm always disappointed in books that are turned into movies. I always expect too much out of them and end up not liking the movie at all.

What book have you read that you think deserves more attention?

Thirteen Reasons Why. It was a wonderful book and I fell in love with it so fast!!

What novel are you most looking forward to in 2012?

Sweet Evil!! I'm so ready for that book to come out!

Do you use any book-specific sites to keep track of what you've read?

Nope, I have not.

What's the most important element to you: characters, plot, writing style?

 I would definitely have to say characters. I think it's important to be able to relate to them so it's almost like you do know them.

Have you ever seen a book trailer? If so, did it make you want to read the book? What do you think about them?


No, I have not! To be honest, I don't know what a book trailer is!


A huge thanks to Lucy for stopping by to answer our questions! Also, Lucy will be around this week to answer any more detailed questions you have for her, so feel free to fire away!

Teentopia: Maria

For February's Teentopia, I interviewed 19-year-old college student Maria on video!



Here's the link in case the video doesn't embed properly for you.

If you have any questions for Maria, leave them in the comments below!

Teentopia: Taylor and Amanda

For the first Teentopia, we have two incredibly intelligent sisters answering our questions and indulging in our curiosity!

Meet Amanda:

I’m 15, in 10th grade, and homeschooled. I am a Christian; I walk with Christ. Art, of many different forms in general, is a huge interest of mine. I’m also looking into going into the field of medicine, but still debating.

And introducing Taylor:

I’m a high school senior with various interests and passions. I tend to love anything relating to the arts or the human mind. My purpose is to live like Christ, glorifying God and serving others.

What are some of your favorite recently-read books?

Amanda: Some of my favorite recently read books would be: The Hunger Games trilogy, The Percy Jackson and the Olympians series, The Pendragon Series, The Outsiders, and Howl’s Moving Castle.

Taylor: Definitely on my top list of recent books would be Mockingjay (the last book in the Hunger Games series), Book of a Thousand Days, The Shunning, and The Confession (sequel to The Shunning).

How do you find out about and choose books that aren't assigned in school?

Amanda: I usually find out about new books and book series by word of mouth; from friends and relatives. I also learn about or becoming interested in reading new books through seeing movies made off of books and books written by an author I like though.

Taylor: I ask for recommendations from my friends and family, or I just discuss good books with them. Sometimes I even get into conversations about books with people I just met or barely know. Good books make for good discussions, and when someone’s description of a book they love captivates me, I have to go out and read it for myself.

On a related note, do you read reviews before you decide to read a book? Where?

Amanda: No, I actually don’t really end up reading any reviews until after I read a book, ironically. When I do read reviews though, I usually read them through school related websites.

Taylor: About 20% of the time I will read reviews about a book before I read the book myself. I only read reviews if I’m seriously debating on whether or not I want to read a particular book. Everyone’s view is biased, so when I have my mind set on reading a book, I will read it no matter what I’ve heard about it. Most of the time I just skip the reviews; I don’t want another’s view of the book to affect the way I will perceive it. Nevertheless, whenever I do happen to read the reviews of a book, I type the name of the book and the word “reviews” into Google. I don’t remember any particular sites I’ve used the most for reviews, but I do know that I’ve used Amazon a few times.

Do you read author's blogs/facebooks/twitters? If yes: before you read their book or after - and what kind of content do you like to see?

Amanda: I don’t recall having ever read an author’s facebook or twitter, and I don’t read many authors’ blogs, but I have read a couple blogs for some of the authors I really like. I usually read their blog after I’ve read their book or books however. What I usually like to see on an author’s blog kind of varies. I like to read about updates on books, inspirations for writing certain works, their personal interests or random activities; things like that.

Taylor: I’ve read an author’s blogs a few times, but I don’t do it often. If a series is really, really good, I’ll read some of its author’s blogs on the book’s website or on blogspot.com. So far, the only two authors whose blogs I have read are DJ Machale (Author of the Pendragon series), and JK Rowling. What I’d like to see in their blogs are any current books they are working on, if any plans are being made for a movie in the future (I was dying to know about this with the Pendragon series), and things about their lifestyle, perspective, and surrounding influences and how those things have shaped the book(s) that they have written.

What kind of covers draw your attention?

Amanda: Vivid or creative covers really draw my attention. Since I’m really into Art, neat pictures or graphic designs catch my attention pretty quickly.

Taylor: I have a tendency to be drawn to covers that portray depth and meaning, because those are the types of stories I like to read. Anything from a simple cover of a girl with a conflicted expression to a complex cover of a confusing maze of graphic artistry can draw me in – it just all depends on if I feel depth from the cover. It can be a confusing scene that I want to figure out, or a sad person whose story I want to hear, or a cool design that shows creative sophistication. Whatever it is, it has to make me want to get lost in its story; it has to move me in some way. That being said, a book’s cover doesn’t even have to have illustrations for me to be drawn in – I’m often drawn by the title of the book itself. I think the title of a book is just as important, if not more, than the illustration. Oftentimes, the title is what gives me the most sense of depth and meaning, which, in turn, draws my attention.

Do you feel like YA books accurately represent teen culture? How so? Is there anything (themes, character types, genres, time periods, etc) you'd like to see more of in YA books?

Amanda: I feel that YA books do a pretty good job at representing teen culture. There is a good variety to their books, and a lot of them do seem targeted towards teen audiences. I’m not sure I’d say there is anything I’d like to see more of in YA books.

Taylor: Sadly, yes. I say “sadly” because I feel that a majority of YA books focus on drama, sex, relationships, and image. From what I’ve seen of the teen culture, and what I’ve experienced myself, most teens seem to focus on these four things. I like books that have these things, yet send out morals as well, such as the fact that these things are not all there is to life. However, a lot of books I’ve read seem to have excessive drama without meaning, sex for entertainment, and characters that, even by the end of the book, think that having a boyfriend or girlfriend is the most important thing in life. Can’t we have more books that focus on these things but also show meaning and morals and depth too?

I would like more Christian books, or at least books with Christian themes like loving others, forgiving others, and using your own suffering to help those around you. In other words, I want more wholesome books that you can gain beneficial morals from. I’d also like to see more books about teens struggling with mental disorders. I’ve read one about a guy with autism, but I have yet to read about a teen struggling with an anxiety disorder (like me). Basically, I’d love to see any books about the outcasts, or people that aren’t the norm. We already have enough books a

Anything you want to see less of?

Amanda: Personally, I would like to see fewer books that primarily consist of teenage high school relationship drama. I just feel like I see and read so many books like that, and it begins to get a bit boring after a while. Not that books like that can’t be great, I would just like something new is all.

Taylor: YES. Please, let’s cut down on the drama, relationships, sex, and image obsession. I understand if they are added to progress an idea or theme in the book, but when they are added solely for entertainment purposes, I cannot stand it! I need to see the meaning!

How do you read books? (paper, e-reader, phone, audio, etc)

Amanda: I like to read actual paper books. I like the feeling of being able to sit or lay down and open my book up. I don’t really read books on the computer or anything unless I’m required to. I have enjoyed listening to some books on tape, but I still prefer paper books.

Taylor: I read paper books, and have tried a few audio ones too. I don’t read electronic books because they just don’t have the same feeling – I can’t flip the pages with my hands, use my special bookmarks, and make notes on it. I can’t even drop the electronic “book” without it being damaged (yes, I’m clumsy)! I prefer paper books all the way, and I prefer them over audio too because I like imagining the voices myself and reading at my own pace.

What do you think about all the YA books that have recently been made into movies?

Amanda: Most of the books that are made into movies are ones that I really like coincidentally. I personally always find the books better then the movies.

Taylor: For most of the ones I’ve seen and read, I think that the movies have done a pretty good job at portraying the original books. Of course, I still think that a lot of the movies cannot compare to the books (such as the Harry Potter series). When something is so good and masterfully written, the movie can only become second best no matter how hard it tries to fully capture its predecessor. As for the selection of books that are made into movies, though I’m not too fond of all of them (Twilight, for example, is decent), what I like is that when a book seems to have a huge fan base, companies strive to create a movie out of it. I like this because it makes a lot of people happy. I know the excitement of finding out that your favorite book will soon be a motion picture; it’s quite an amazing feeling.

What book have you read that you think deserves more attention?

Amanda: Definitely the Pendragon Series. It’s one of my all time favorite series and an amazing read. I don’t hear about a lot of people that have read the series though.

Taylor: I think The Shunning and the two books that follow it deserve more attention, quite simply because… they’re just so good! Not only do the books portray a unique perspective and story (they delve into the Amish life, telling of a girl adopted into an Amish family, who struggles with her heritage and seeks answers in the “outside world”). The characters in the story are as dynamic as can be, with flaws, regrets, failures, successes, dreams, quirks, and beautiful characteristics of all kind. The relationship between the main character and her adoptive parents, as well as the various friendships throughout the story, are realistic yet uplifting. Even though the series hugely reflects Christian values, I would recommend it to anybody. It is informative of a culture, it shows a variety of different perspectives, it delves into complex relationships, and it masterfully portrays the struggle of self-discovery and acceptance.

What novel are you most looking forward to in 2012?

Amanda: Surprisingly, I haven’t currently heard about many books coming out in 2012 that I’m too interested in.

Taylor: At the moment, I can’t think of any books coming out in 2012 that I’m most looking forward to, but I do know of some that have already come out that I’m dying to read. First, I can’t wait to read The Reckoning, which is the third book of The Shunning. Also, I’m really looking forward to reading the Game of Thrones series, which was recommended to me by a friend, and the I Am Number Four series, because I enjoyed the movie.

Do you use any book-specific sites to keep track of what you've read?

Amanda: No actually, I’ve never really used any kind of site like that.

Taylor: No I don’t, though that is a really good idea. I’ve always wanted to start keeping track of what I’ve read through a book site, so I plan on doing that soon.

What's the most important element to you: characters, plot, writing style?

Amanda: I honestly think all three of those are incredibly important in a book, but if I had to choose one, I would have to pick the characters. Just one insanely amazing character can make you fall in love with a book.

Taylor: That is a tough question. What usually makes me get into a story the most is when I fall in love with its characters. However, the plot is also incredibly important – it paces the events and shows the story’s purpose. But writing style… I would have to argue that the writing style is the most important out of all of these. I believe that your writing style determines all other things. The ability to organize a good plot is dependent on writing style. The ability to create lovable characters with depth is likewise dependent on writing style. You need to know how to write in a way that will captivate the reader and make him or her feel what you want them to feel from the story. You need to find your own unique voice – one that no other author has. That voice can only be shown through your unique writing style.

I'd like to thank Amanda and Taylor for being my guinea pigs on this new monthly Teentopia feature! Also, the girls said that they will be able to stop by this week and answer your questions, so please leave your questions for them in the comments!

Don't forget: Come back on January 25th to pitch EIGHT editors from Entangled Publishing. Young Adult or Adult; Novels and novellas! Details here.