Description
Book SynopsisFemale empowermentespecially among girlsis one of the most significant issues to come out of the 90''s, and one that will continue to play a significant role in the new millennium. But how do we define empowerment? And more importantly, how do we identify its characteristics within literature? With problems like teenage eating disorders and pregnancy still very much at the core of American society, it is no surprise that a book as important as Declarations of Independence is the latest addition to Scarecrow Press''s Studies in Young Adult Literature. Authors Brown and St. Clair use their collective expertise to uncover and trace the development of the young female protagonist from the role of submissive fairy-tale maiden to the spunkier more independent girls who now appear with increasing frequency in young adult literature. This next generation of heroines is the model with which today''s readers can readily identify and who the authors believe, become agents of social change for you
Trade ReviewExamining 'historical fiction, contemporary realism, and literature of the fantastic,' this book shows how these genres offer new images of girlhood for their readers. Anyone interested in girls' literature will find this an absorbing, thoughtful study, one that sheds new light on contemporary young adult literature and gender issues. * CHOICE *
A fascinating, illuminating study that would be a fine addition to all academic and large public libraries. * Booklist *
Readable and lucid...highly recommended for all those working with teens and their literature as well as for students in undergraduate and graduate courses. * VOYA *
This book is a wonderful tool for those working with adolescent girls, particularly teachers of English literature. The book offers a welcome perspective to adolescent development and empowerment. Those working with adolescent females will find the book useful for finding books that will inspire and communicate to today's young girls. * The Children's Literature Program *
...a wonderful overview of books published in the last decade or so that feature 'spunky, fiery, empowered girls' as protagonists. The book is a fantastic resource for everyone...this book does an excellent job... * Feminist Collections: A Quarterly Of Women's Studies Resources, Vol. 28, No. 2 (Winter 2007) *
A valuable exploration of the topic. * School Library Journal *
Table of ContentsChapter 1 That Was Then Chapter 2 This Is Now Chapter 3 Empowered Girls in Historical Fiction Chapter 4 Empowered Girls in the Contemporary World Chapter 5 Empowered Girls in Literature of the Fantastic Chapter 6 Empowered Girls in Memoir Chapter 7 Conclusion
