Tips for Writing School-Approved Young Adult Literature

Introduction to the Writing Process

Aspiring authors of school-approved young adult literature, if you're serious about writing for teens, there are several steps and resources that can help you make your work both compelling and appropriate. Let's explore some practical tips and necessary resources:

Resources and Books

Writer's Digest: If you're serious about writing young adult literature, starting with Writer's Digest books is an excellent choice. These comprehensive guides cover everything from character development to marketing your work. Writer's Digest is widely regarded as the no. 1 resource for all types of writers, and it will be a valuable tool in your writer's toolbox. Visit their website for a range of volumes on specific types of literature:

Writer's Digest: The No. 1 Resource for Writers Celebrating the Writing Life and What it Means to Be a Writer in Today's Publishing Environment.

These books will serve as your Writer's Bible, providing a wealth of information and practical advice. With dedication, you'll find these resources invaluable as you navigate the journey of becoming a well-respected author in the young adult literature field.

Understanding Your Audience

Kenya Mashigo, an award-winning author from South Africa, shares insights on the importance of writing for teens with authenticity and depth. It's crucial to avoid talking down to your readers or being overly didactic. Instead, get inspired by popular media and understand what young people enjoy in terms of stories. If you specialize in Science Fiction and Fantasy (SFF), you may need to stay informed about contemporary youth culture. However, if you're writing contemporary fiction, immerse yourself in the genre. Many teens who are avid readers (ages 12 and up) often browse the adult section at libraries, so don't hesitate to challenge yourself and your writing style:

Most kids who are avid readers (ages 12 and up) are already browsing the adult section in the library. So, you really don't need to dumb down your writing. Write with excitement and emotion, as you would for adult audiences, but with some important moderations:

Avoid excessive profanity. Do not include graphic or explicit sexual content. Make the violence less graphic but still reflect real-life complexities.

Practical Steps and Resources

Reading and Analysis: Start by reading books similar to the ones you want to write. Understand the genre and the best-selling books within it. Critically analyze these books to discover what makes them successful. This will help you find your own unique voice and style:

Practice is Key: Writing is a craft that requires time and practice. Begin with short stories and gradually move into longer forms, like novels. There is no school that can teach you everything, but dive into writing and learn from experience. Gain basic knowledge from books by authors like CJ, James Scott Bell, and Mckee Swain, among others. Visit websites like Fiction University run by Janice Hardy, Margie Lawson Academy, and Derek Murphy's Creative Indie site for additional resources and guidance:

Once you have the basics down, you can explore more advanced workshops and courses by distinguished professionals who bring their expertise to the table.

Conclusion and Good Luck

In writing for teens, the goal is not only to entertain but also to engage and inspire young readers. With the right resources, dedication, and practice, you can produce books that resonate with your audience and make a meaningful impact. Good luck on your journey to becoming a well-respected author in the field of young adult literature!