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…

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…

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)

Presents an email interview with playwright and novelist Adam Rapp. Discusses his first three novels, which center on themes of isolation and alienation. Addresses his writing processes and how he develops the characters in his novels and plays. (RS)

Weaves a discussion of the female protagonist of Laurie Halse Anderson's novel "Speak" into the main discussion of the female protagonist of Carson McCullers'"The Member of the Wedding." Demonstrates the parallels between the stories as well as the distinctions to reinforce their individual richness, and to assist teachers who may choose to pair…

Takes a personal approach to the lives of overweight teenagers and suggests some adolescent novels that explore such lives. Notes, however, that most such novels end unrealistically with the adolescent losing weight and gaining popularity. (RS)

Presents a discussion of the protagonists in three of Suzanne Fisher's novels. Considers how as the protagonists enter their teenage years, they find themselves thinking quite differently from their loving families. Discusses how two coming of age protagonists successfully craft new identities and learn to compromise with their communities as they…

Considers how writing has changed the author and his relation to the world. Proposes that reading can have the same influence on young adults. (RS)

Notes that young adult novels with young female characters often provide layers of insights into their growth, insights that frequently have gone unrecognized. Examines critically acclaimed young adult novels from the past three decades. Finds that many strong female protagonists do exist. (RS)

Reviews the career of southern young adult novelist Sue Ellen Bridgers. (RS)

Explores and evaluates 11 novels and 2 nonfiction books for young adults that explore the issues surrounding abortion. Notes the conspicuous absence of young adult literature dealing with this tough emotional and controversial issue. (SR)

Discusses in detail (using an analogy to a compost pile) how the author brought into being his novel "The Big Wander." Includes an interview with the author. (RS)