ABSTRACT
Literature for young adults is constantly changing, always evolving. Young adult readers, too, are constantly changing, and their classrooms must change with them. This chapter defines young adult literature and describes its early history. It then explores changes in the content and structure of contemporary literature and in the ways in which it is marketed to young adults. Some of the characteristics of contemporary young adult readers are discussed, particularly their diversity and their comfort with technology. The chapter concludes by highlighting key elements of a contemporary literature classroom: teaching with diverse literature; encouraging a critical perspective; and effectively incorporating graphic texts, technology, and film.
