Edgy YA books for young adults

Source: Teenswritingforteens.wordpress.com

Edgy YA books for young adults are those that tell a story from an intense perspective. Aimed at aimed at older teens and beyond, they tend to address themes that were formerly considered taboo or controversial. The classification of edgy YA refers to the topic’s intensity—therefore, these books often fall under another genre, such as dystopian novels, young adult fantasy novels and paranormal romance books.

The boundaries of edgy YA books are virtually limitless. What sets them apart is that they are typically written with sensitivity and lack the gratuitousness that may characterize a book geared for an older audience. In more mainstream books for young adults, the main character’s friend may have serious issues, while in edgy YA, the story is usually told from the protagonist’s point of view, and therefore, they are typically the character facing a more difficult or controversial situation or circumstance.

Whether a book falls under the increasingly popular category of dystopian novels, science fiction and fantasy books or any other genre, the readers must be able to relate and identify with the character’s feelings in order for them to be invested in their story—and for the book to be successful. This is probably the most important requirement for the characters of edgy young adult books. Another important element is that characters feel real and authentic, through their personality, behavior, hobbies, the way they speak and their vocabulary. In addition, their goals, beliefs and relationships should fit their persona.

For example, if the heroine in a trilogy of paranormal romance books practices Satanism or is a thrill seeking adventurer, it’s probably unlikely that her hobbies include cooking and sewing. Or if a character is very realistic and grounded, she most likely will not believe in a new age religion or practice witchcraft. It’s integral for the characters to be painted in a realistic light so that their behaviors and feelings resonate with readers, even the protagonists in science fiction and fantasy books.

The next most important thing is for readers to witness the arc and transformation that the main character experiences. While the theme and plot is very important, it’s even more crucial for the character to change and grow throughout the story—when a protagonist comes of age and discovers who they are while facing the issues brought about by the book’s theme, it makes for very compelling reading material that can intrigue even the most jaded reader.