Monday, July 14, 2014

Uk's first YA book convention is a hit

The first UK young adult fiction convention (YALC), hosted by Malorie Blackman, is buzzing with ideas and enthusiasm

The opening day of the UK's first public literature convention dedicated to young adult (YA) literature was held at Earl's Court, London
The opening day of the UK's first public literature convention dedicated to young adult (YA) literature was held at Earl's Court, London 
It was something to celebrate: the first UK book convention dedicated to young adult fiction, and it opened in characteristically original style with charismatic and witty children's laureate Malorie Blackman, dressed in a Star Trek outfit, addressing the packed hall at Earl's Court, London, in the language of Klingon.

One of the appealing aspects of YA novels and authors is an openness to debate. Blackman, who curated the two-day event, was appearing on a panel with Sarah Crossan and Patrick Ness, discussing the on-going appeal of dystopia.

They all made interesting and valid points about the need for YA to be realistic and truthful, even when the truth is painful. "Teenagers write stuff that is way darker and more hopeless than some of the published stories anyway," said Ness, who has just completed a new YA novel. 
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