“Then Jesus told them this parable . . .” -Luke 15:3
In an age where things that used to make people gasp and blush are now commonplace in literature—even, and maybe 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,… Read More »The Problem With Clean YA Fiction For Christian Teens
The other day, while browsing new releases in YA fiction at my local library, three novels with flashy covers and catchy titles grabbed my attention. I plucked them from the shelf, read the back covers . . . and immediately thought, “How is a young reader supposed to maintain a… 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 »I Took a Break From Reading Fiction—For Years
We’ve been talking about some deep topics on this blog for the past month or two, so it’s time to touch on something lighter: standout characters in YA novels. What are your favorite fictional characters and why? Is it because you relate well to them, or do you admire them… Read More »Standout Characters in YA Novels: 6 of Lauren’s Favorites
In my last post Is YA Christian Fiction Ever Christian Enough? I urged readers to lay-off their overall criticism of Christian fiction. YA Christian novels offer a great alternative for conscientious readers looking for clean entertainment that encourages faith, and we should never look at them as a replacement for… Read More »6 Red Flags to Watch For in YA Christian Fiction
Have you ever read a book review where a critic slammed a work of YA Christian fiction for not being “Christian enough”? Lacks Biblical substance. Doesn’t mention Jesus even once. Fluffy entertainment. Let me first say that, as a Christian, it is of utmost importance to guard the integrity of your… Read More »Is YA Christian Fiction Ever Christian Enough?
“I love poetry and I love art but together they’re like ice cream in root beer: two amazing elements that create an explosion of senses when combined . . . I loved how a beautiful sketch took on a whole new meaning when you looked closer and saw that the… Read More »Word Art in “The Day Hanna Hosanna Helped Cootie Judy”
A while back, I promised to let you know whenever I discover a dazzling work of YA fiction. Lo and behold, I found one. This Christian teen fiction spotlight features a review of Something I Am Not, by Cher Gatto—a highly recommended read. Published in 2019, this isn’t a brand-new… Read More »Christian Teen Fiction Spotlight: A Review of SOMETHING I AM NOT