Description
Book SynopsisTeen paperback series, routinely castigated or ignored by Young Adult librarians despite their popularity with young adults, should be considered for inclusion in collections alongside other genres. In Serious about Series, Makowksi provides distinct criteria by which these series can be judged for quality within their genre, and emphasizes them as an inexpensive way to fulfill patron needs and increase circulation by bringing young people, often considered non-readers, into the library. Makowski''s book is an insightful evaluation of over fifty popular series, and includes an introduction that analyzes the teen series paperback genre and its significance for both teen reading practices and library services. Hundreds of titles are annotated in the book, allowing librarians to develop in-house bibliographies of favorite teen series titles, making this a truly useful reference source for the young adult librarian.
Trade ReviewAt a minimum, anyone in charge of purchasing books for teens should read the introduction, including the criteria for review and the genre definition. Then read the evaluations and annotations and discover a whole new world out there. * VOYA *
All you ever wanted to know about series' could have been an alternate title for this comprehensive work...Makowski's writing is lively and readable and will appeal to librarians and teens alike...an excellent resource for high school and public librarians building collections for YAs who want 'another book like this one. * School Library Journal *
Makowski's evaluative comments on each series are both witty and insightful. This book will serve as a useful reference guide as well as a timesaver for those who want to be responsive to their young readers' interests but are reluctant to spend the time becoming familiar with each title. * American Reference Books Annual *
...author Silk Makowski takes the guesswork out of selecting the best series...analyzes over 50 series, critiques their quality within the genre, and provides annotated lists of installments. * American Libraries *
Explained in the introduction are the criteria used to assess young adult series' offerings. A thorough index enhances its usefulness. This is an excellent resource for collection development. * Book Report *
Makowski...examines over 50 popular series here with care and wit. She's honest and opinionated. Public YA librarians in particular will want this book, and teens may want to check it to make sure they haven't missed any installments in their favorite series. * Kliatt *
...a useful reminder that series are still big in young adult reading... * Library Review *
...an excellent collection building tool which will be of immense help to teacher-librarians who are attempting to appeal to teenage non-readers to help them improve their literacy skills. -- Gloria Hersak, Chief Librarian
She evaluates and annotates over 50 series, and she does so candidly and with a sense of humor...Love, mystery, horror, supernatural, humore and realism are all represented in this one-stop shopping for teen series books. * Teacher Librarian *
...gives a well-thought-out justification for studying teen paperback series...describes succinctly why teen series amount to a genre unto themselves...The annotated listings of titles will be invaluable for readers' advisory... * Joys *
...a great aid...clear and concise...valuable to young-adult librarians... * Public Libraries *
Makowski's evaluative comments on each series are both witty and insightful. This book will serve as a useful reference guide as well as a timesaver for those who want to be responsive to their young readers interests but are reluctant to spend the time becoming familiar with each site. * Lisca *
...as a reference, this volume is useful. * The Lion and the Unicorn *
...recommended for librarians and students of librarianship. * Orana *
