Professional Resource

From the article, “Where Does Adolescent Literature Belong,” Holly O’Donnell discusses what is labeled as “controversial content” in adolescent literature. She states how “suicide, mental illness, death, [and] child abuse … may not be palatable to those who fear that such realistic themes may corrupt our youth and undermine our society” (O’Donnell 85). Mental illness or "cognitive disabilities" are a neglected topic in adolescent literature for just that reason. She also speaks of and criticizes the limitations in adolescent literature. O’Donnell provides the following limitations as examples: “(3) the mélange of hardships, grief, and handicaps make for dull reading; and (4) there is a lack of adolescent drama” (O’Donnell 85). The text set I used all reject such limitations. For example, Inside Out is filled with drama! The entire novel revolves around the fact that Zach is held hostage by two men at gunpoint. Also, Tara’s “handicap” or cognitive disability/illness in Kissing Doorknobs does not make for “dull reading.” Her life story seems to be a roller coaster full of many confusing lows and relieving highs. All three books address issues of diversity while also being quality pieces of literature as well.

O'Donnell, Holly. “Where Does Adolescent Literature Belong.” English Journal. November 1984: 84-6.