How do you define "YA Saves"?

[Patricia]

YA Saves can mean many different things to many of us, all at once. I don't think there is one solid definition of "YA Saves" but I do believe that the overriding quality/characteristic a YA Saves book includes:
- opening our minds to subjects/topics that are tough (rape, glbt, racism, etc.)
- giving us a better understanding on such topics
- making us feel we belong
- giving us an outlet

What do you think?

[The FountainPenDiva, Old school geek chick and lover of teddy bears]

Add to that are books that may not necessarily be "tough" in theme, but which feature characters from marginalized groups most readers don't pay attention to. One of the problems I've discovered over the years is that some issue-oriented books are so heavy-handed that the bigger message gets lost. Let's have some hope along with the sadness, LOL. I would love to feature books from other genres which feature PoC's, GLBTQ youth and others as main characters

[Dennis]

Vixenne wrote: "Add to that are books that may not necessarily be "tough" in theme, but which feature characters from marginalized groups most readers don't pay attention to. One of the problems I've discovered o..."

Very well stated.

[Patricia]

Vixenne wrote: "Add to that are books that may not necessarily be "tough" in theme, but which feature characters from marginalized groups most readers don't pay attention to. One of the problems I've discovered o..."

You are right on cue! I have definitely included many GLBT books and other issues to the bookshelf. There are many YA Saves books out there it is just a matter of finding them. :) Thank you for your input! The more the better!!

[Glass]

I would include here realistic books form my girl power shelf.

[Patricia]

Glass wrote: "I would include here realistic books form my girl power shelf."

Great list! I can't wait to read through them all!

[The FountainPenDiva, Old school geek chick and lover of teddy bears]

I've updated my shelves and yes, most of the books I've picked and read are not "problem" novels. Those may come later, but it's more important to me to showcase YA of color in diverse roles.

[Jessi]

YA Saves focuses on experiences/issues that the majority has not experienced and possibly does not understand.

[The FountainPenDiva, Old school geek chick and lover of teddy bears]

In my opinion, just having characters of color in roles that they normally aren't a part of--such as paranormal--fits that description to the letter. Because not everything about teens from diverse groups is about struggle, pain and sadness. That's been the point so many authors have been trying to make.