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The Versatile Storyteller: Writing Young Adult Fiction

Semester and Year FA 2017
Course Number WRTNG-UG1364
Section 001
Instructor Molly Horan
Days Tue Thu
Time 8:00 AM - 9:15 AM
Units 4
Level U

Notes

Description

Young adult fiction has become a rich literary classification covering all genres, from fantasy to literary fiction to magical realism. The one unifying theme across all YA is a sense of hope in the conclusion-for the protagonist, her community, or even mankind. This class offers specific units which introduce sub-genres of YA through assigned readings and discussion. We will also workshop students' corresponding YA novel excerpts. We will pay close attention to voice and dialogue, as well as study and practice the importance of world building. We will also discuss the importance of representation and the increased visibility of diverse characters in young adult fiction. Assigned readings will focus on young adult literature from the last twenty years and be broken up into sub-genres including fantasy and science fiction ( Grasshopper Jungle  By Andrew Smith and  Dorthy Must Die  By Danielle Paige), literary fiction ( Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe  by Benjamin Alire Sáenz and  The Sun Is Also A Star  By Nicola Yoon), and magical realism ( Still Life With Tornado  by A.S. King and  The Strange and Beautiful Sorrows of Ava Lavender  by Leslye Walton).

Syllabus

All Syllabi

Course Type

Advanced Writing Courses (WRTNG-UG)

Instruction Mode

In-person