Author to Discuss Challenge of Writing Teen Fiction, April 30

“Realistic Teen Fiction: Meeting the Challenge” will be the subject of a presentation by author Marilyn Reynolds on Wednesday, April 30 at 4:30 p.m. on the Main Floor of Illinois State University’s Milner Library.  The event is free and open to the public. 

 Reynolds will discuss the challenges of tackling subjects such as sexual abuse and teen pregnancy in books geared toward young readers.  She is the author of a popular series of books about high school students who must face up to their fears or accept responsibility for their actions in the face of painful life situations.  She will also discuss the censorship that authors encounter when writing about such subjects. 

Her books include Telling, the story of a 12 year old molestation victim; Love Rules, about a young woman’s decision to come out of the closet while in high school; Beyond Dreams, a series of short stories about young people coping with peer pressure, racism, school failure and other challenges; and Detour for Emmy, the story of a successful high school student whose life changes dramatically when she becomes pregnant.

 Reynolds’ presentation is co-sponsored by Milner Library and Roanoke-Benson High School.