Young adult short stories can influence young readers in many ways. For example, they can expose them to different cultures, values and ideas. Stories like 'The Joy Luck Club' short stories by Amy Tan introduce elements of Chinese - American culture. They also help in developing empathy as readers get to understand the feelings and experiences of the characters. For instance, in 'The Fault in Our Stars', readers can feel the pain and love of the young protagonists.
Typically, they often revolve around the themes of self - discovery. Young adults in these stories are usually on a journey to figure out who they are, like in many stories where the main character leaves their hometown to explore new opportunities.
There are quite a few young adult short stories worth mentioning. For instance, 'Flowers for Algernon' by Daniel Keyes. It follows the journey of a man with an intellectual disability who undergoes an experimental treatment. It's a deeply emotional and thought - provoking story. 'The Lady, or the Tiger?' by Frank R. Stockton is also popular. It leaves the ending up to the reader, making it very engaging for young adults who like to think and debate.
One popular young adult short story is 'The Lottery' by Shirley Jackson. It's a thought - provoking story that reveals the dark side of human nature within a small community. Another is 'All Summer in a Day' by Ray Bradbury, which tells a poignant story about a girl on Venus where the sun rarely shines. 'Eleven' by Sandra Cisneros is also well - known, exploring the complex feelings of a young girl on her eleventh birthday.
There isn't one definitive 'godfather of young adult short stories' that everyone agrees on. However, some might consider Roald Dahl in this regard. His short stories for young people are full of imagination, unique characters, and moral lessons. His writing style is engaging and has influenced generations of young adult literature. His stories like 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory' started as short concepts that later became full - length but still carry that short - story charm in their core.
The short story 'All Summer in a Day' by Ray Bradbury can also be considered in this category. It depicts a world where the sun only comes out once every seven years on Venus, and the children's reaction to this rare event. It shows a rather dark and dystopian view of a future world.
Well, one characteristic is that they often have relatable young protagonists. For example, in 'Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark', the characters are normal kids who encounter the abnormal, which makes it easier for young adult readers to put themselves in their shoes. Another characteristic is the use of suspense. These books build up tension to keep the reader hooked. In 'The Graveyard Book', Neil Gaiman slowly reveals the secrets of the graveyard and the boy's past, creating a lot of suspense.
Common themes include acceptance. This could be acceptance of one's own feelings, like in 'Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda' where Simon has to accept his homosexuality. Another is the theme of change. As the relationship progresses, the characters change and grow. Also, the idea of the power of love. In stories like 'The Fault in Our Stars', the love between Hazel and Augustus gives them strength in the face of their difficult situations.
If we assume an author like S.E. Hinton as a possible 'godfather', her works are known for their realistic portrayal of youth. They often deal with tough topics like friendship, growing up, and social class differences. Her characters are relatable, which makes the short stories engaging for young adult readers.
Cricket Magazine is a wonderful option for young adult fantasy short stories. It caters specifically to a younger audience and is always on the lookout for engaging and imaginative fantasy tales. Their readership is made up of young people and those interested in youth - focused literature.