Entering the teen years ushers in all sorts of changes. From the academic, to the physical, to the emotional, adolescents are in a state of ongoing metamorphosis. Likes, loves, and interests never appear to remain settled or consistent. It is as if a young person has entered a grand testing ground where the entire world is spread before them.
The same can be said for an individual’s taste in literature. It can run from adherence to books of comfort, similar to those most likely read throughout childhood, or broaden a person’s world view, incorporating a variety of genre formally untested, fostering a greater awareness of the world.
Progressing through adolescence, I discovered two incredible doors to the world that were clearly not in the same direction. My first discovery stemmed from completely character-driven books in which the reader is invited behind closed doors into the intimate emotional and sexual encounters of the protagonists.
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For a child whose parents were less than forthcoming regarding anything of a deeply personal subject matter, it was imagery that finally paired emotion to the mechanics I had learned about in junior high school health classes. The first book of this nature was the ever-popular, Forever, by Judy Blume (pictured left). However, it was not long before I “graduated” to Once is Not Enough, by Jacqueline Susann and The Other Side of Midnight, by Sidney Sheldon — talk about eye-opening reading selections!
As a complete polar opposite, I also became enamored with historical fiction. I could not get enough of lengthy works, such as Exodus and QB VII by Leon Uris and The Winds of War by Herman Wouk.
Looking back, I find my incredibly eclectic taste in literature has been ongoing. In addition to the above mentioned novels, I explored a variety of genres, including fantasy, contemporary, mystery, thriller, etc. I have never tired of trying new directions in reading, but I believe those first tastes certainly contributed to my interest in all aspects of the world and seeking my place in it.
What books touched you during your teen years? Do you think they helped shape your choices as you entered adulthood?
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A major author for me was Chaim Potok, I read everything he published. I felt parallels between the acceptance of different types of orthodoxy, and the acceptance of my emerging identity.
I can totally see that analogy. I read both The Chosen and The Promise — both very powerful pieces that could apply to all people seeking their place in the world. Thank you so much for sharing this!