The book draws from literary, psychological, and sociological perspectives to discuss and to illustrate how these perspectives contribute to instructional practices in Young Adult Literature. The focus is on young adult identity development as it is integrated into reading literature and contributing to the young adult readers personal growth. The suggestions for instruction range from complete lessons to mini-lessons as well as to student-developed lessons that encourage participation and responsibility of the student in his/her own learning. There is a section on integrating media, technology and literature in instruction. And finally, a look at implications and applications for assessment and curriculum.

Lorraine DagostinoPhD, professor emeritus, University of Massachusetts Lowell, has been an educator since 1970 in the public schools, community college, four year college, and the university.

Jennifer Bauer PhD,is the chair of the Communication Department at Middlesex Community College. Prior to that, she taught at Lowell High School for 12 years.

Kathleen Ryan PhD, is an associate professor and co-director of the literature and history department. She is also the director of the education program at Hellenic College.

Introduction

Chapter One: A Conceptual Understanding of Literature and Young Adult Literature

Chapter Two: Theoretical Perspectives on the Literary, Psychological and Sociological

Chapter Three: The Role That Questions and Inquiry Play in Nurturing an Understanding of Young Adult Literature

Chapter Four: Media, Technology and Literature

Chapter Five: The Conceptual Background and Practical Ideas for the Instructional Goals for the Development of Identity in Young Adult Literature

Chapter Six: Final Remarks and Implications for The Implementation of Curriculum Organization and Content

Background Reading and Bibliographic References

About the Authors