London Free Press: Gritty books appeal to teens is a look at Canadian Annick Press which publishes amazing books like Secrets in the Fire. Their focus is on getting teens to read books that are more reflective and well-written but also speak to today’s serious issues. Knowing how great Secrets in the Fire is, I am happy to say that they are achieving their mission.
I must add that I do not agree with their premise that graphic novels are not literature and that we need to start fussing about WHAT kids are reading. I think that time and time again we have seen that the act of reading is what is important, especially for boys who will only read comics. Just let them read, but let us as children’s professionals make sure that when they are ready to try something deeper, it is right there waiting for them.