“Then Jesus told them this parable . . .” -Luke 15:3
Reading is supposed to be relaxing, like a walk on a soft, sandy beach or a cup of hot cocoa during a snowstorm. When you pick up a book, you should be allowed to sink fully into the world in which your characters live and forget your own for a… Read More »Great Teen Fiction: 17 Squeaky-Clean YA Romance Novels
With the popularity of YA fiction novels like The Hunger Games and All American Boys, you could say violence is on the minds of many young readers. Not surprising, given the rise of violence in our culture. I still remember how horror swept the country for months after the Columbine… Read More »Violence in Clean YA Fiction: How Much is Too Much?
When it comes to young adult literature, sci-fi, fantasy, and dystopia continue to be strong-selling genres even as diversity gains traction in the YA scene. There’s something about stretching the boundaries of reality that appeals to teens (and the many adult readers of young adult literature). But of course, finding… Read More »Books for Christian Teens: Clean YA Sci-Fi, Fantasy, & Dystopia
What defines classic literature? It pretty much boils down to one premise: Works of classic literature transcend time. More than just brilliant writing, classics generally offer revelatory insight into universal themes like love, morality, and adversity, and often include a gripping plot or intensely evocative time period or place. Many… Read More »Great YA Literature: Clean Classic Books For Teens
Adrenaline-packed fiction doesn’t have to compromise faith. If you’re the kind of bookworm who likes the feel of your heart slamming against your ribcage but sometimes forgoes the latest horror flick on account of questionable content, I’ve got you covered. The five YA Christian fiction thrillers, suspense novels, and horror… Read More »YA Christian Fiction Thrillers, Suspense, & Horror: 9 Books to Keep You on Edge
In an age where things that used to make people gasp and blush are now commonplace in literature—especially, young adult literature—it’s great to see a thriving “clean” YA fiction market. This means enough readers still demand virtue and integrity in their media. And if you’re a Christian, you might be… Read More »The Problem With Clean YA Fiction For Christian Teens
Fortunately, a few authors remain dedicated to bringing clean content (less violence, profanity, or sex) to the mainstream YA fiction table. I personally enjoyed the novels by Kasie West and Ally Carter, both of whom write contemporary fiction. The other day, while browsing new releases in YA fiction at my… Read More »How to Find Clean Young Adult Fiction in a Dirty Market
Years ago, I went on a fiction fast. For half a decade (maybe longer), I took a break from reading fiction and didn’t pick up a single novel. Sounds crazy, right? Especially considering my current career path. Authors need to read. It’s part of how we study our craft and… Read More »Do You Need to Take a Break From Reading Fiction?