Description
Book SynopsisCelebrates the accomplishments of YA authors acclaimed for producing high-quality comedies, who have not yet been treated in a book-length bio-critical study. Simultaneously, it reminds readers that no matter how funny an author of fiction may be, if he shows off his wit in ways that fail to play a natural role in advancing his narrative, he is not writing good fiction. To demonstrate this, humorous passages are presented to illustrate the contribution a sense of humor can make to a work of fiction. The book is arranged topically to facilitate a comparison of distinctive treatments by various authors of adolescent life events, such as sibling rivalry, bullies, and first dates.
Trade ReviewHogan's observations are commendable, and he makes generous use of examples from hundreds of YA novels; moreover, with the bibliographies at the ends of chapters, readers have at hand a nice collection of recommended YA 'readings lists.' * CHOICE *
Hogan's resource is an energizing tour de force through the writings of dozens of YA authors...If readers are well familiar with this body of literature, they will feel as if they are enjoying a good laugh with old and dear friends. Those new to the field will find themselves frantically scribbling down titles and authors, as Hogan entices with summaries and snippets of seemingly countless books....as a reader's advisory tool, this book is invaluable, paving the way for many laughter-filled hours to come. * Silive.com *
Hogan...has ably taken on the formidable task of writing the first book-length exploration of humor in YA fiction....The book is especially helpful for looking at Joan Bauer, Eoin Colfer, Diana Wynne Jones, Ron Koertge, and Gordon Korman. It will be welcomed by juvenile librarians, teachers of YA literature, and possibly by librarians who will use it as a selection tool for their YA collections. * Booklist *
The frequent association of young adult literature with angst-ridden characters and complex seriousness is challenged in this through examination of the role of humor in works for adolescents. Young adult titles that tackle 'the challenges of adolescence with wit and humor' are in fact numerous, and this remarkably solid text offers a topical discussion of many such examples....Readers will come away from this solid offering with a firm appreciation of the richness of humorous offerings; those organized enough to take notes will also have an extensive list of books to read and recommend for a laugh. * The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books *
An excellent resource for librarians wishing to balance their YA collections with humor....it's well worth taking the time to read the book, highlight sections, and take notes. * School Library Journal *
Hogan (librarian, Eastern Michigan U.) sets out to prove that comedy in young adult literature can address the same concerns as books focusing on teen angst, heartache and serious life lessons. He takes his examples from the treatment of adolescent life events by authors such as Daniel Pinkwater, Vande Velde and Joan Bauer. The organization of the text follows the stages of adolescent development and ends with a discussion of the coming-of-age novel. * Reference and Research Book News *
An excellent selection tool, Humor in Young Adult Literature will prove invaluable for both English or language arts teachers, as well as public and school librarians. Recommended for professional collection. -- D. Jane Miller, Brewer HS Librarian/WSISD Library Coordinator
This professional resource is excellent for those who are looking to catch up on titles they may have missed, and can help build reader's advisory skills. * Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA) *
Table of ContentsPart 1 Introduction Chapter 2 Family Chapter 3 Friends Chapter 4 Bullies Chapter 5 Authorities and Adversaries Chapter 6 What's Wrong with Me? Chapter 7 Could This Be Love? Chapter 8 The Ironic Perspective Chapter 9 Coming of Age: Who Am I, and What Am I Going to Do about It? Part 10 Bibliography Part 11 Index Part 12 About the Author
