If you’re looking for a good book for your teen or tween, chances are you’re wondering what the difference between young adult and middle grade is? These terms are often in the description of books and library catalogs. If you’re unsure about them, then you are not alone. I was there with you, wondering about them, at the start of my publishing journey. The problem is that as readers; we don’t say middle grade or adult books. We simply search-out reading material in the children’s, teen, or adult section of the library or bookstore.
Let’s begin by understanding what makes a book YA or MG. Then you have a better chance of finding that ideal teen book.
Are MG or YA Books Best for Teen Readers?
Beautiful covers and compelling story blurbs aside, what’s really in MG or YA books? It is right for an advanced elementary school student to read, middle school student, or early high school? First, we need to understand the terms. Here is a summary based on my research of the two “teen” book categories:
Middle Grade Books
- Main character is between 8 and 12
- Harsh, graphic acts are OFF-SCREEN (the character is not taking part or seeing them)
- Defined good and evil sides (even if they switch, by the end, it’s clear)
- No swearing, sex, drug use, alcohol consumption (on page or by main characters)
- Overall, uplifting and hopeful message in the end (even in dystopian novels where the overall atmosphere can be dark)
- There are also writing conventions, such as the use of simpler vocabulary, shorter sentences, 30,000-50,000 word book length, written in third person, etc.
- Sold or shelved in the children’s section of libraries and bookstores
Young Adults Books
- Main character is between 14-18 (some say 15 is the minimum)
- Violence, profanity, sex, and drugs are permitted, although are not in all YA books (thank goodness)
- There are no rules for defined good vs. evil, the overall tone, or ending
- There is more self-reflection of the main character, what s/he is thinking and how s/he fits into the world/situation
- The writing conventions for YA are larger vocabulary, longer sentences, 50,000-9,000 word book length (some say longer, especially for fantasy YA, 70,000-100,000+), often written in first person, etc.
- Sold or shelved in the Teen or YA section of libraries or bookstores when available, or in children’s sections when not, but more likely in adult fiction areas where no teen area exists.
Are YA Books Right for 12- to 16-year-olds?
There is no guarantee that an MG book or YA book will be right for a tween or teen. MG is certainly geared toward younger readers, but there is a wide range of stories. If it’s too simple, teens can find it boring. YA has gotten grittier. A publishing friend of mine described it as 14-year-olds-acting like 18-year-olds. I think she is absolutely right. Some topics and overall feel are just dark, graphic, or overly promote risky actions.
So where does that leave us? Well, I choose the teen books that offer deep, entertaining fantasy, but are full of moral characters that provide hope. Some of these books are MG and some are YA. It’s about reading covers, reviews, and finding that special, perfect mix. If this wholesome type of YA book excites you, check out The Invisible War, my debut YA fantasy book. Otherwise, I hope this blog helped you navigate the world of teen books more effectively.
Emily Refermat 