Radical young adult fiction can be edgy and raw, which is why young
adults who read it find it to be very relevant to their lives. Teens
struggling with issues in today's society can often recognize themselves
and identify their problems in the fictional lives they read about.
There are no easy answers or pat endings in these books. They often are
accused of being dark, gritty, and bleak because they deal with subjects
like incest, teenage pregnancy, dysfunctional families, gangs,
prejudice, violence, drugs, or other complex problems. Central
characters can be quite mature and multidimensional and plot lines are
complex. These books break boundaries in various ways, from the
challenge they present to the reader to the voice they give to their
young protagonists. Radical YA fiction is frequently more complex and
better written than many adult bestsellers. Bodart, long known as the
reigning queen of booktalking, has identified 101 engaging, tough, and
well-written books and presents them in a way that will help the
librarian defend their presence in the library or classroom, the parent
who wants to know what their child is reading, and the teen who is
looking for a "Rad Read." Naturally, there is a booktalk to pique
interest and give away just enough of the story. Entries also include
character lists and sections on subject areas and major themes. Bodart
also provides a number of booktalk and book report ideas. Her section on
"risks" will alert adults to mature themes, while her section on
"strengths" will help defend these books against their critics. The
author has also included awards won and a section of book reviews, which
will be useful for both adult and student. All the books listed are
accessible to readers of middle school ability and up. This is truly a
multipurpose book from an expert who knows her stuff and essential for
any library serving a teen audience and handy for parents as well.
