Presents the opinions of three publishers (Bantam Books, Scholastic, and Harper Junior Books) concerning the quality of young adult literature from the mid-1960s through the mid-1980s. (MM)

Makes a case for the literary quality of the adolescent fiction of Aidan Chambers. Reviews the life and work of this "talented stylist." (TB)

States that many authors have a desire to write a sequel to a previous book, or a series, to see what happens to their protagonist in the future, "after the happily ever after." Relates the creative process involved in writing the sequel to "Dynamite Dinah," titled "Dinah Forever." Concludes that yet another sequel is…

Notes that Lois Lowry's novel "The Giver," with its powerful writing, themes, and issues, provides an introduction to the best in young adult literature for students who might have had few (or no) prior experiences with excellent young adult literature. Discusses how students in an adolescent literature methods course responded to the…

Discusses the inspiration behind the character of Pigman. Discusses the author's life on Staten Island during World War II. (RS)

Presents three examples of Young Adult novels in which death is addressed, including: Angela Johnson's "Toning the Sweep" (1993), Paula Fox's "The Eagle Kite" (1995), and Cynthia Rylant's "Missing May" (1992). Considers how these three novels portray adolescents anticipating death, facing death, and dealing with its…

Suggests that adolescence is a time of searching for understanding and that literature that deals with a diversity of spirituality can support that search. Appends a 17-item annotated bibliography of young adult books with spiritual themes. (RS)

Presents an interview with Author/Screen Writer David Klass. Discusses his dual role as young adult author and Hollywood screenwriter. Illuminates important differences that Klass finds when working as writer of young adult books and as a screenwriter. (SG)

Examines arguments as to whether, how, and to what extent children's and adolescent literature is becoming postmodern. Suggests young adult literature has fully embraced the postmodern mode. Discusses three young adult novels that use postmodernist ideas and techniques: Sharon Creech's "Walk Two Moons," Louis Sachar's "Holes,"…

Draws a composite of the textual features that contribute to the distinct flavor of southern literature, including (1) attention to place; (2) emphasis on memory; (3) concern with the clash of traditional values against modernity; and (4) use of language. Discusses the interplay of these features in each of the five novels of Sue Ellen Bridgers.…

Discusses the use of musical talent and tastes in the characters in the young adult novels of Sue Ellen Bridgers. Notes that Bridgers uses music as allusion, metaphor, and symbol. (RS)

Argues that Carson McCullers's novel "The Heart Is a Lonely Hunter" is a fine work of fiction which deals with problems, issues, and themes highly relevant to today's young adult milieu. (SR)

Recalls the author's wandering, drifting years growing up in the Hawaiian Islands. Discusses where fiction fits into the lives of adolescents. (RS)

Challenges readers to work harder than they have been working for young adult literature in general and ALAN in particular. Suggests ways to promote young adult literature. (SR)

Reports results of a short survey of teachers regarding their use in class of books by author Judy Blume, and whether they had experienced controversy surrounding Blume's books. (SR)