This book provides classroom approaches to analysis of themes in young adult literature reflecting an array of relationships with self and the world with which adolescents engage daily. These themes include self-discovery, self-perception, differentiating between right and wrong, and making difficult choices complicated by issues of social justice.

Preface

Acknowledgments

Introduction

Chapter One. Adolescence, Young Adult Literature, and Thematic Explorations

Chapter Two. From the Hero's Quest to a Journey of Self-Discovery

Chapter Three. Conceptual Teaching Unit: Identity Exploration on the Way to Self-Discovery

Chapter Four. Good vs. Bad, Right vs. Wrong, and Other Choices

Chapter Five. Conceptual Teaching Unit: Examination of Good vs. Bad, Right vs. Wrong, and Other Choices

Chapter Six. Self-Perception and Being Oneself

Chapter Seven. Conceptual Teaching Unit: Developing a Positive Self-Perception

Bibliography

About the Authors

Index

Leilya A. Pitre is assistant professor of English education at Southeastern Louisiana University. She works with secondary English education majors teaching methods courses, literary analysis, and young adult literature.

Mike P. Cook is associate professor of English education at Auburn University, where he works with pre-service teachers and graduate students. He teaches courses across the undergraduate and graduate ELA degree programs.