Description
This course will explore a range of literary works written or marketed as “Young Adult” (YA), for a readership often defined as 12–18-year-olds. Despite its current popularity, Young Adult literature has often been dismissed as simplistic or unworthy of the attention of adult readers. In this course, however, we will examine the literary merit of these works, trace the history of YA genre, and examine the educational value and influence of YA literature in the classroom and beyond. Readings will include literature in a variety of genres, such as speculative fiction, graphic novels, adventure, and history with an emphasis on diverse voices and perspectives.