What Are the differences between Middle Grades and YA Literature?
Middle grades and young adult literature are two distinct categories of literature that cater to different age groups and have their own unique characteristics. Let’s take a look at the distinctions between middle grades and YA Literature.
Middle grade literature is typically written for readers aged 8-12, although there is some overlap with the age range for young adult literature. Middle grade literature is characterized by its focus on stories and themes that are relevant to children in this age group. The writing style tends to be simpler, and the length of the books is typically shorter than young adult literature.
Young adult literature, on the other hand, is written for readers aged 12-18. Young adult literature is characterized by its focus on stories and themes that are relevant to teenagers, including issues related to identity, relationships and personal growth. The writing style tends to be more complex, and the length of the books is typically longer than middle grade literature.
In terms of content, middle grade literature often focuses on themes of friendship, family, and coming-of-age, while young adult literature often deals with more complex issues such as mental health, sexuality, and social justice.
The key difference between middle grade and young adult literature is the age of the target audience and the themes and writing style that cater to their developmental needs and interests.
Characteristics of Middle Grades Literature
Middle grades literature is distinguishable by more than just the ages of their readership. Some key characteristics to look for in middle grades literature include:
Protagonists of similar age: Middle grade literature typically features protagonists who are of similar age to the intended readership, allowing readers to identify with the characters and their experiences.
Themes of friendship and family: Middle grade literature often focuses on themes of friendship, family, and belonging, as these are important issues for children in this age group.
Adventure and discovery: Middle grade literature often features stories of adventure and discovery, as children in this age group are often curious and eager to explore the world around them.
Simple language: Middle grade literature is written in simple language that is easy for children to understand, while still being engaging and interesting.
Positive messages: Middle grade literature often includes positive messages about courage, resilience, and the importance of doing the right thing.
Publishers of middle grades literature are looking for authors who can create engaging stories that resonate with children in this age group. They are also looking for authors who can create relatable characters, develop strong themes, and write in a way that is both simple and engaging. It is important for authors to keep in mind the developmental needs of middle grade readers, while also creating stories that are interesting and relevant to their experiences.
Fun Books Versus Popular or Classic Books
What is the book trend of the day? What book does your literature teacher think you ‘should’ read? These are the questions answered by most book recommendations lists. That’s where the following books suggestions and favorite booklists are different. They don’t follow any certain literary fad, popular book trend or ‘books that stand the test of time’ nonsense. They are books that are listed for no other reason than they are fun. And yes, you have our permission to occasionally read for fun and relaxation and not for any higher world order. So feel free to look through our Purdy Book blog posts for fun books from all genres and all age/reading levels. Don’t lose track of the reason you fell in love with books and reading in the first place.
