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RE: Recent Trends in Books for Children and Teens
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From: Steward, Celeste <csteward_at_aclibrary.org>
Date: Fri, 20 Nov 2009 09:01:22 -0800
In answer to Megan's question:
I think graphic novels have become a staple in the children's publishing world. In my opinion, the new stuff being published is much more sophisticated than the flimsy comic books of my childhood. And the sheer variety of graphic novels for younger readers has exploded in the last several years. We now have early readers, simple chapter books, picture books, etc. Titles such as Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Avatar, Warriors, etc. are jumping off the shelves here.
The other trend that fascinates me lately is the move toward multi-platform series such as The 39 Clues, Lego, Transformers, etc. There are others too but the titles escape me right now. Some of these series dip into the graphic novel arena but the intent is clear--to use games as a hook for reading. I know some parents frown on this trend but I consider it a creative way for publishers to capitalize on what kids (including reluctant readers) are already doing. If not for these new formats, I think there are some kids who would bypass books altogether and just sit down at the computer.
Celeste Steward Collection Development Librarian IV Alameda County Library 2450 Stevenson Blvd. Fremont, CA 94538 (510)745-1586
Received on Fri 20 Nov 2009 09:01:22 AM CST
Date: Fri, 20 Nov 2009 09:01:22 -0800
In answer to Megan's question:
I think graphic novels have become a staple in the children's publishing world. In my opinion, the new stuff being published is much more sophisticated than the flimsy comic books of my childhood. And the sheer variety of graphic novels for younger readers has exploded in the last several years. We now have early readers, simple chapter books, picture books, etc. Titles such as Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Avatar, Warriors, etc. are jumping off the shelves here.
The other trend that fascinates me lately is the move toward multi-platform series such as The 39 Clues, Lego, Transformers, etc. There are others too but the titles escape me right now. Some of these series dip into the graphic novel arena but the intent is clear--to use games as a hook for reading. I know some parents frown on this trend but I consider it a creative way for publishers to capitalize on what kids (including reluctant readers) are already doing. If not for these new formats, I think there are some kids who would bypass books altogether and just sit down at the computer.
Celeste Steward Collection Development Librarian IV Alameda County Library 2450 Stevenson Blvd. Fremont, CA 94538 (510)745-1586
Received on Fri 20 Nov 2009 09:01:22 AM CST
