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Common Sense and Censorship
Thoughts About Young Adult Literature
By Kelly Burgess
Although Fennell is no proponent of censorship, she does agree with a more common sense approach to young adult books that would more carefully consider the subject matter.
"Looking at young adult literature right now, I can divide it into two areas: preteens, which is about 11 to 13, and then 15 and up," says Fennell. "There really is a division there concerning what is appropriate for that 'tweenager' age group. Unfortunately, making that distinction is tough sometimes and gets you into issues of who makes the decisions, what are they based on and when can exceptions be made. It can be a slippery slope."
Fennell also sees a brightening up of "reality" fiction for young adults. "For a while everything was so depressing, and it seemed that the best books dealt with themes that almost couldn't have a happy ending," says Fennell. "I'm seeing a lot more sarcastic, funny and audacious books. They deal with real issues but in a lighter, more humorous manner."
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