Two Of My Favourite YA Books

These two authors get it right.

This is my first article relating to the YA genre which is one I have really got into lately, partly because so many Netflix series started off as YA books. I am not a book snob and truly believe that adults can enjoy YA stories a lot and often find that some of the best writing happens in this particular genre.

Lark by Anthony McGowan

With a rucksack containing sandwiches and a trusty dog by their sides, two brothers go for a day out, walking in the Yorkshire hills, wanting to take their minds off an upcoming visit to the mother who abandoned them. They are keen for an adventure, spurred on by their own dad’s recollections of walking in the hills when he was a lad.

This is a YA book but it is satisfying for any reader, with a strong storyline and a character who soon draws you into his life, making you feel nostalgic about your own youth. He looks after his brother and tries to keep his spirits up as the snowy weather causes more disruption to their journey than planned and a tragic event gets them stranded during the night.

Anthony McGowan was nominated for awards for this book. All I can say is Rightly So. This quick read is satisfying, has a good narrative timeline and really draws you in.

Love Simon by Becky Albertalli

This was one of those situations involving me reading a book after I’d already seen the movie version. It did not in any way disappoint. The novel added so much extra detail and lovely insights into the character’s feelings as well as introducing me to the incredible narrative skills of Becky Albertalli.

Told by a teenage Simon, who is struggling to come to terms with being gay, it clearly shows a realistic picture of the conflicts going on when deciding whether or not to tell your family and friends about your personal life. The situations include a party where Simon is drunk for the first time and that classic experience of being part of a school play.

The friendships are supportive but small things can create cracks between Leah, Abbey, Simon and Nick. Everybody has their thing; everybody has their anxieties. Simon has to decide how much he will lose or gain by finally taking the chance to be HIMSELF.

Summary

These two books are different in terms of settings but both of them are hugely relatable. Becky has a way with words that involves lots of dialogue. Her conversations drive the story forwards and keep you engaged. Anthony reflects on his own youth in stories set in the north of England and his work is full of heart-warming comfort. Both of them deal with issues related to growing up and finding yourself.

If you want to join Medium as a paid member (and why wouldn’t you?) please use my joining link.