Analyzes the characterization of teachers in realistic fiction books selected as the best in children's literature during the past eight years. The negative and positive characteristics portrayed are described and the effects on the public image of the teaching profession are discussed. (eight references) (CLB)

Examines the treatment of foreign characters in adolescent fiction series of the twentieth century. Numerous examples of stereotypical images, portrayals of foreign inferiority, dialect, and derogatory designations are provided, along with some positive images. The potential impact on adolescent readers is discussed. (43 references) (CLB)

Presents an interview with Phyllis Reynolds Naylor, a prolific author of books for children, young adults, and adults. Her writing process, how reading influences her writing, and ideas for settings and characters are some of the topics covered. A selected list of 32 of her books is included. (EAM)

This lecture by Hazel Rochman discusses multiculturalism and immigrants in literature for young adults, including fiction and poetry, based on her experiences of growing up under apartheid in South Africa and moving to the United States. (LRW)

Contains a speech from the 1992 American Library Association annual conference where the author and editor, Hazel Rochman, draws upon memories of her South African childhood to describe the effects of apartheid on white South African children and how this provided the motivation for several books created around a multicultural theme. (seven…

Identifies myths and stereotypes found in juvenile literature portraying the physically handicapped, and uses fictional and personal examples to show how such characters can be portrayed realistically and effectively. The need for authors to focus on the person rather than the disability is emphasized. (10 references) (CLB)

Discusses the historic derivation and the format and characteristics of traditional tall tales, and modern adaptations of these stories. Describes a selection of tall tales for modern young adult readers; notes titles and authors of original tall tales and those with female heroes. Discusses the enduring appeal of traditional and modern tall…

Discussion of controversial fiction for older children and young adults focuses on two main issues: the relocation of controversial material, and why material is challenged. Includes a list of books that were challenged in schools and public libraries in the U.S. and Canada from 1984-1999. (LRW)

Identifies the elements of science fiction that might appeal to adolescent readers and offers suggestions for developing innovative book talks on science fiction books. A bibliography of 133 books, categorized by subgenres such as hard science, space travel, and mysteries, is provided. (eight references) (CLB)

Reports on a content analysis study of 25 novels about youth facing death and dying to determine whether death and grieving are realistically portrayed in young adult literature. Describes the evaluative instruments developed and discusses findings, concluding that young people can be informed and comforted by these realistic novels. (38…

Presents two speeches from a library service preconference program. An author discusses her historical fiction for young adults and a Public Service Coordinator at Pekin (Illinois) Public Library focuses on interagency cooperation and her library's first intergenerational program. (AEF)

Discusses the importance of imagination and the power of stories. Draws on insights gained from visits with children growing up in difficult environments, and shares examples from the author's own works written for young adults. (AEF)

Describes technological images presented to children through television, movies, and science fiction, and explores the possible effects of these images on meanings derived by young readers. The use of speculative fiction to explore personal and social values is discussed. (Five references) (CLB)

Suggests that studying myth, and what it can tell of the history of people's perceptions of values, will provide a basis for future growth. Provides various examples from literature that define myth and relate the power of myth in modern society. (AEF)

Examines the promotion of cultural diversity in the United States through childrens books. Discusses the scarcity of multicultural literature for children, ethnic folklore, racial bias in older books for children, new stereotypes in children's literature, political correctness, and ways to enhance access to quality multicultural literature. (AEF)