This article comes from a speech that Richard Peck gave at the Colorado Language Arts Society Regional Spring Conference in 2007. At our request, he prepared this excerpt for "English Journal" readers.

Considers the importance of vocabulary to writers (the author is one), to teachers (the author was one), and teenagers. Reminds us that literacy and abundant vocabulary are important for practical as well as aesthetic reasons: survival regularly depends upon communicating with strangers. Suggests ways in which teachers can improve their students'…

An author of books for young adults traces his experiences from a beginning teacher going through several changes in jobs to his emergence as a writer. Discusses the ways in which those experiences have shaped his works. (FL)

Provides an expanded version of a speech given at the 1992 American Library Association conference reflecting on 25 years of young adult literature. Issues and trends in American society and their relationship to the emerging literature written for adolescents are discussed. (EAM)

This speech, given by the recipient of the American Library Association (ALA) Author Achievement Award in 1990, discusses the responsibilities of writers of young adult fiction. Issues addressed include problems in growing up, declaring independence from your peers, and the importance of the role of librarians. (LRW)

Presents a series of recommendations for the successful organization of visits by authors of children's books to school libraries or gatherings of teachers and librarians. Identifying an author's publisher, arranging a visit, purchasing books, scheduling activities, and costs and accommodations are discussed. (JL)

Discusses the need for educators, school librarians, and authors of adolescent literature to provide literature which is at once entertaining and educational for young adults. Some current social factors affecting the emotional and intellectual development of adolescents, including permissive family environments and the impact of television, are…