This last Sunday, USA Weekend featured an article by Elizabeth Kaye McCall about giving books to teenagers for the holidays. She states:
“A new generation of teen-friendly books is attracting readers 12 and older, so why not consider giving a good book this holiday season?”
I’ve always loved getting books as gifts, so I read on with interest.
“Teens find good books through word of mouth online, says Diane Roback, children’s book editor for Publisher’s Weekly. And author blogs and websites (like those by Sarah Dessen and Meg Cabot) attract younger readers.”
I certainly agree with that.
But further down in the article, the statement is made:
“Reconsider taboo books. Although many books popular among teens have sex, drugs and suicide themes, Silvey says they offer some lessons worth learning.”
Um – hold your horses and back up this paddy wagon.
Sure, many of the books for teenagers currently being marketed do feature sex and drugs as primary elements. The attitude that currently prevails seems to be one that “they’re going to do it anyway, so why shouldn’t they read about it?” or “Maybe if they read about it, they won’t go out and try it.” I disagree. Strongly.
I have found that the books we read shape the people we become. If our teens spend time primarily reading books that feature sex and drugs, their minds will be filled with images of sex and drugs. I would much rather see teenagers fill their minds with good quality reading that will fill their heads with morals and values. Authors such as Janette Rallison, BJ Rowley, James Dashner, and Shannon Hale give our teens entertainment and edification. I’d like to see more teens reading books like that instead of books that will show them a side of life that emphasizes the carnal.
I’m certainly not suggesting that we surround our teens with tissue paper and not allow them to experience real life. (I would if it would work, but I realize that’s unrealistic.) What I am suggesting is that our teens get enough education about the world every day. What they need now is education about their souls and how to build up their self esteem. I don’t mind some taboo books remaining taboo if they were labeled that way for a reason.
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