I have some inherent issues with the idea that we should be selling teens on what's new and "hot" while ignoring a canon of wonderful literature old and new. I realize that this is what many of them are looking for and I would never presume to push Catcher in the Rye on a teen that was looking for something like Gossip Girl but I think ignoring the material and only acknowledging it as school assignments is not giving credit to a number of writers that have created works with lasting themes. I know that Forever by Judy Blume is never on the shelf at my branch and that most copies are often checked out. I recently revisited the book because it was a favorite of mine during my own teen years and when I reread it, I felt that it had largely retained much of it's significance and the voice of the protagonist is not dated.
There are a number of well written books coming out every year in increasing numbers. There are also a number of "classics" that were written in a timeless way that many teens can still relate to. I think many of them would be open to these titles if we as librarians encourage the right teens to read them. There will always be teens that are not at the right reading level or interest level for them, but it's our job to recognize that. If we are supposed to treat them as adults why do they need an "opener" book to get them to trust us enough to recommend well written award winner or classic? I would argue that we could earn their trust more effectively by recommending the right book regardless of publication date or literary value. I have seen voracious readers come in looking for new material. What a perfect opportunity for us as professionals to expose them to great literature.
Long live Holden Caulfield!
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Absolutely on all counts. And I think you make a good point when you talk about "Forever" being a classic. In one sense, it is absolutely a classic of young adult literature, and should totally be booktalked.
ReplyDeleteWhen I think of not booktalking classics, I think of Western Civ stuff--like Plato, Pride and Prejudice, Uncle Tom's Cabin, etc. But maybe those need a shot in the arm too.
I think when you're doing your selection for booktalking, one of the most important things to keep in mind (especially you're in a public library setting) is that you want to choose titles that will get teens rushing into your branch to check them out. Using a title like Forever, I think you could def drawn some kids in. But for Robinson Cruson? Hmm...not so much. But on the floor of the library, which is where you are able to have the kinds of interactions with teens where you can build relationships between what they're interested in versus what's on the shelf, then I think you can totally find that teen who will latch on to whatever we're calling "classic" at that particular time.