Notes that because of the status enjoyed by the Advanced Placement (AP) program and the reverence typically granted its values among secondary teachers, reconfiguring the AP English examination has the potential to genuinely improve English instruction--especially writing instruction--in American high schools. (SG)

Discusses the absence of adolescent literature in Advanced Placement (AP) English classes. Describes how a class of AP students and their teacher benefited from reading Robert Cormier's "The Chocolate War." (PRA)

Describes existential elements in three novels for adolescents: "The Crazy Horse Electric Game" and "Running Loose" by Chris Crutcher; and "God, the Universe and Hot Fudge Sundaes" by Norma Howe. Asserts that adolescent literature in an advanced-placement English class can connect the classics to the present. (MM)

Considers the reasons Advanced Placement (AP) English teachers might give for their literature selections. Suggests eight works for further reading outside the canon for AP and Honors English Teachers. Lists and gives annotations for 10 "new or overlooked" Young Adult books worth reading. (SG)