This program was presented by two very enthusiastic teen librarians from Grand Rapids, Michigan. They offered advice on how to give teens and tweens the types of books they want, while keeping their parents happy.
Their main comments were:
1. Parents have the right to restrict their children's reading choices but they can't control it
2. Teens need bold books because it teaches them about social behaviors
3. The librarian's duty and responsibility is to read and read and read, avoid self censoring and aim for quality
4. How to analyze a book - the 4 s's (sex, savagery, swearing, Satan)
5. Controversy varies by experience and location
6. Booktalk a title
7. Curate online resources such as Goodreads, Novelist, Amazon
8. Suggest parents read the book along with their teen
9. Be ready to advocate for relevant books on sensitive topics, in a non-threatening way
All in all, this was a good program. Definitely something worthwhile for those who want to increase their understanding of the reader's advisory gap between tweens and young adults.
We definitely see this challenge in children's as well. The tweens are eager to be a part of the "teen scene", fit in with their friends, read what's popular, and be perceived as mature.
ReplyDeleteTypically we are lucky enough to have parents tag along and I always give my same speech that we books for this age in both areas. I let parents know that the teen scene typically is for the 12/13 and up (young adult being 19/20) so that they may want to take a look or review the book their child chooses.
Most parents are fine, but we do get specific requests from parents for books without any magic, language, boy/girl relationships. It's nice to have some pre-thought out titles (and pathfinders) to help.
Of course, when in doubt call the reader's advisory gurus Jason and Linda! Just can't say enough how much we *LOVE* you!