Oooh! That is a cool tidbit and fun that you have a connection with this writer.

The movie version was well done in my opinion. They changed some aspects and I believe it added to the story (as movies often do.) It added even more feels to this tender and deep storyline.

Kris

I'm glad you appreciate it.

Thanks for these suggestions, Ellen. Good ideas for finding your teen beta readers. Libraries are filled with resources.

That's a cool piece of trivia, Denise. Thanks for sharing!

She used to write women's fiction, but she's really found her audience with YA.

Regarding finding younger Beta readers, I suggest chatting with friends with older children, school librarians, and the children's librarian in public libraries.

Many children who are homeschooled get their information from local libraries.

It's good to develop a relationship with your local librarians. They may put up a notice that local authors are looking for readers.

Hi Jenny,

YA has had such a surge in popularity in the last few decades. It's been a fun ride as adults join in on the high drama and stakes easily found in adolescence. I enjoy reading it too, because of "all the feels". It makes reading meaningful and an adventure.

Kris

I agree, Ellen, that is it super important to get teen input on a draft. It's like sensitivity readers in one way, because things like dialogue will be the first thing they weed out as authentic or not.

It makes sense to have teen readers, but it may be hard to find a good group of readers. Do you have any suggestions for finding beta readers?

Hi Sam,
It's great that you have a positive response from your teen beta reader. It is interesting that she liked the story. I wonder what aspects stood out to her the most? Those insights could help you determine why your readers say you write YA.

YA is most recognized by the main character's age, so I wonder if the story is told through the young person's eyes?

Whatever you are doing, Sam, it sounds like your readers are into it. Keep writing and enjoying the process.

Thanks for the comments!
Kris