Holly Koelling

If the Best Books for Young Adults list is available on line each year from YALSA, then why compile a combined list from 2000-2006? The answer is that the collection is much much more than just a complilation of the lists. The book begins with a thorough analysis of YALSA’s efforts over the years to create lists of the best. The chapter that analyzes the trends in publishing for young adults is simply the best analysis we have seen. It looks at trends such as the feminization of teen literature, changes in family life as represented in the books, trends in the growth of graphic novels and many other aspects of publishing. We are then treated to combined lists across the seven published lists of themes not used in the lists published each year. These theme lists include: friendship, humor, love and romance, science fiction, among others followed by a number of nonfiction themes. After this section, the collective lists are arranged by author complete with annotations with additional indexes of various types. For any person working with teens, whether librarian or teacher or counselor, this book is a must have and a must read reference. The YALSA best books list is selected by adults, it is true, rather than a list popular with teens, but it represents one view into the world of YA literature worth considering. Highly recommended.… (plus d'informations)