‘Diversity in Youth Literature,’ released by ALA

Diversity in Youth Literature: Opening Doors Through Reading, edited by Jamie Campbell Naidoo and Sarah Park Dahlen, has been added to my wish list for professional investment.

Newly released by ALA Editions, Diversity in Youth Literature surveys representations of common and lesser-known culture groups in literature for teens.

Of particular relevance for me is the inclusion of cognitive disabilities among examined youth cultures in this book. Young adult fiction is prominent on my list of recommended books for people on the autism spectrum.

Because we experience high rates of bullying, this informs my interest as well. I regularly survey the treatment of bullying in books and audio resources.

Diversity in Youth Literature interests me as a resource for library collection development. I see value in materials that speak directly to the experience of under-represented groups and this book offers both context and guidelines to select “the best in diversity literature.”