Examines the identity of female characters who rescue male protagonists in three works of Newbery-winning fiction, and realizes their archetypal roles of Mother. Provides readers with a vehicle for revisiting the interaction among characters in young adult fiction. Presents a rationale for using literary criticism to help students explore how…

Weaves a discussion of the female protagonist of Laurie Halse Anderson's novel "Speak" into the main discussion of the female protagonist of Carson McCullers'"The Member of the Wedding." Demonstrates the parallels between the stories as well as the distinctions to reinforce their individual richness, and to assist teachers who may choose to pair…

Analyzes the fiction of Robert Newton Peck with reference to his book "Secrets of Successful Fiction." (TB)

Discusses the life and work of Stephen Schwandt, a mystery writer who incorporates elements of the mystery genre into his nonmystery novels. Suggests that the major strength of his novels is the characters. (RS)

Draws some conclusions about the significance of Donovan's book, generally acknowledged as the first young adult book to deal with the theme of homosexuality. Revisits the novel and considers the critical reaction it provoked at the time it was written. Examines subsequent critical commentary, and considers several recently published young adult…

Presents as overview of the children's and adolescent literature of Betsy Byars, giving special weight to technique and theme. (TB)

Examines the portrayal of orphans in four young adult novels. Applies Northrop Frye's modes of literature to seven stages of the orphans' quest for safety, as found in each book. (SR)

Notes that athletic coaches appear infrequently in young adult novels and are typically narrowly drawn, flat characters. Discusses numerous "coaches" in young adult novels. Suggests that these coaches reflect the real-life good and bad coaches that exist in society. (RS)

Discusses three novels that focus on the mother/son relationship: Bruce Books'"The Moves Make the Man," Chris Crutcher's "Stotan!" and Walter Dean Myers'"Fallen Angels." Notes that all three deal with forms of combat, both physical and mental, with competition, and with a struggle to survive--a struggle that each novelist turns into a metaphor for…