(blog article)

For me, reading has always been less about the stories and more about the characters. The most enjoyable thing was to see myself in them. The Young Adult and New Adult genres helped me with this, both as a child and now. And as I changed, so did the characters get new personalities and problems. Today I want to show you the evolution of the characters in these genres in relation to new realities.

Young Adult characters are usually teenagers. They can save the world, fight villains, and, at the same time, face the problems of first love, fragile friendships, and unfulfilled homework. Whereas New Adult heroes are those who have just become adults. Financial difficulties, a new environment and the search for the meaning of their own existence are already waiting for them. In such circumstances, saving the world doesn’t sound so exciting anymore, does it? However, don’t think that the greater complexity and seriousness of New Adult will make readers feel bored. Reading New Adult, depending on your age, can bring even more emotions and impressions than Young Adult.  European publishers describe these books as exciting, romantic, and passionate.

The move in popularity from Young Adult to New Adult is not only related to the physical maturation of the characters and their readers. It is also a reflection of societal changes and needs. New Adult characters are more likely to explore gender identity and sexuality, and overcome mental health issues. These topics have become especially relevant in recent years. This has led to the need for their qualitative and in-depth disclosure in young adult literature. New Adult characters can experience mental health problems more acutely and desperately than their younger counterparts. They are also characterized by a lack of support from adults. After all, they have already become them. Doesn’t this remind us of ourselves?

Characters in literature reflect personal and social changes. In the Young Adult and New Adult genres, I see the physical and psychological development of the characters and the need for them in society. How about you? You can give your insights and share your ideas…