Teen readers have always been fascinated by monsters, but lately it
seems like every other young adult (YA) book is about vampires, zombies,
or werewolves. These works are controversial, since they look at aspects
of life and human nature that adults prefer to keep hidden from
teenagers. But this is also why they are so important: They provide a
literal example of how ignoring life's hazards won't make them go away
and demonstrate that ignorance of danger puts one at greater risk. In
They Suck, They Bite, They Eat, They Kill: The Psychological Meaning of
Supernatural Monsters in Young Adult Fiction Joni Bodart examines six
different monsters-vampires, shapeshifters, zombies, unicorns, angels,
and demons-in YA literature. Bodart first discusses the meaning of these
monsters in cultures all over the world. Subsequent chapters explore
their history and most important incarnations, comparing the same kind
of creatures featured in different titles. This volume also contains
interviews with authors who provide additional insight and information,
and the bibliography includes a comprehensive list of titles featuring
the various monsters. Analyzing the most important and well-written
series and titles for teens, They Suck, They Bite, They Eat, They Kill
will be useful for parents, teachers, and anyone else hoping to
understand why teens want to read books in this genre and what some of
the benefits of reading them might be.