During the A to Z Challenge, I read a post by Elsie Elmore in which she interviewed a young adult reader. I thought the idea brilliant, especially since I’m querying my own young adult novel right now. I asked Elsie’s questions of a thirteen year-old young, whose love of reading is only surpassed by her excitement to start high school.
What ‘s your favorite type of YA book to read?
I like historical fiction and fantasy. I’m annoyed with dystopian stuff that everyone in school is reading.
Why those genres?
I like historical fiction because I can relate to them more because they are more believable. They are more meaningful to me because they are a symbol of the past. I like fantasy because who doesn’t? It’s a whole new world and there are no rules. You can do whatever you want.
In dystopian, it’s all the same. It doesn’t expand my thinking or my vocabulary so I feel like I’m wasting my time on the same thing.
What type of characteristics have your favorite female protagonists had?
Curiosity, humor. They are normal in some way—relatable. They are like me. They are loyal and honest.
What do you mean “normal in some way?”
Meaning they are not some prodigy. I hate that. They find their own way. They are not born with some special talent. Though, sometimes I like those books if I look up to them and if they are super cool. As long as if they are somehow believable.