The "fun" of writing young adult novels

Parade magazine in yesterday's Sunday newspaper had a timely question about adult fiction writers moving on to pen young adult titles. In the "Walter Scott's Personality Parade" section, a reader asked that question of writers Carl Hiaasen and Jane Smiley. Smiley was contacted--the article said her first young adult novel was published last month--and described the process as "fun." She added, "Since we want kids to read good books, why not try a hand at writing them?"

The same can be quickly said for some mystery writers as I wrote about Robert B. Parker two years ago with his first such book Edenton Owls. And he is continuing with his third young adult book--this time with his most popular adult character "Spenser" in a story from his childhood. Chasing the Bear: a young Spenser novel is a story of the then 14-year-old living with his father and two uncles involved in a dangerous bout of rescue and friendship.

Branching Out--

One of the modern masters of mysteries branching out a little to reach a different readership with a new book. And this time, it's not a long-rumored cookbook. Robert B. Parker of the Spenser series fame has reached out to younger readers with the book Edenville Owls. In this book, Parker specifically has a young adult, coming-of-age story with a 14-year-old involved with sports, peers and a close female friend. That kid, "Bobby" (mmmmm, I guess it's just like a nickname for the author, huh?) also gets involved in a mystery with his school friends helping their new English teacher.

And, of course, you have to have a mystery with writer Parker right?

I remember mentioning this title to one children's librarian and she wasn't interested in reading it--the historical period angle of the story around World War II, I believe--but I thought everything was good. The story seemed to blend quite well with the mystery and Bobby's growth as an individual and a young man. And the historical setting appears to be a cozy fit for Parker's background.

I think Parker can swing it as a YA writer if he chooses and pull in his exisiting fanbase too.