Do adults read young adult fiction? Hell yes! And here’s why. By and large, the majority of my readers are over the age of thirty. At least, that’s what I gather from an informal review of the various messages people have written to me over the years.
Young Adult fiction has exploded in popularity over the past decade. It’s pretty wild! And while it’s marketed towards teenagers, a lot of adults have also found themselves completely hooked on the genre. In fact, according to a survey by Publishers Weekly, more than half of all young adult readers are over eighteen. So what’s the deal? Why are grown-ups reading young adult fiction?
Well, one major reason is nostalgia. It’s not uncommon for adults to revisit the books they loved as teenagers. Reading young adult books can bring back memories of a simpler time and provide a sense of comfort and familiarity, as the themes and characters are often relatable and timeless. A perfect example of a classic young adult novel that still resonates with adults today is The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton. It explores themes of class conflict and the struggle to find one’s place in society, which are still relevant today.
Another reason why young adult fiction is so popular among adults is that it’s a great form of escapism. The genre often deals with themes of adventure, fantasy, and romance, which can provide a much-needed escape from the stresses of everyday life. A series that has captured the hearts of both young and old readers is Percy Jackson and the Olympians by Rick Riordan. It follows the adventures of a teenage demigod named Percy Jackson, who must navigate the world of Greek mythology while also dealing with the struggles of being a teenager.
Diversity is yet another reason why young adult fiction has become a favorite among adults. In recent years, the genre has become more inclusive, with books featuring characters of different races, religions, sexual orientations, and gender identities. A book that has been lauded for its representation is The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas. It tells the story of a teenage girl named Starr, who witnesses the shooting of her friend by a police officer. The book explores themes of police brutality and racial inequality, which are still very relevant to today’s society.
Relatability is also a big factor in why adults enjoy reading young adult fiction. Even though these books are aimed at teenagers, the themes and emotions explored in them can still be just as relevant to adults. Many adults can relate to the struggles and coming-of-age experiences of young adult characters. One series that deals with themes of identity and self-discovery is the Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda series by Becky Albertalli. It follows a teenage boy named Simon, who is navigating the complexities of high school while also coming to terms with his own sexuality.
Finally, accessibility is another reason why young adult fiction is so popular among adults. It’s often easier to read and understand than adult fiction, making it a great starting point for new readers or for those who want to improve their reading skills. One young adult novel that has gained critical acclaim for its accessibility is The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins. It explores themes of survival and rebellion in a dystopian society and has become a cultural phenomenon that has captivated readers of all ages.
Young adult fiction is a genre that has something for everyone, and it’s no wonder that so many adults have fallen in love with it. Whether you’re looking for a nostalgic trip down memory lane, an escape from the stresses of everyday life, or simply a great read, young adult fiction has got you covered. Some other favorite young adult books among adults include Eleanor and Park by Rainbow Rowell, Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson, and The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky. So go ahead and dive in no matter what age you are!
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