Reconnecting with Young Characters:
An Ageless Writer's Journey
Well, fellow writers. It's been quite a few years since I posted about staying connected with young people as a MUST-do as a writer for KidLit. But how do we do this without being creepy or weird out there in the real world? Here is an update to that original blog: Keep Connected: Aging Writers, Young Protagonists.
In a world that constantly evolves with each passing year, staying relevant as a writer, especially when crafting stories for young audiences, can be quite challenging. As aging writers, we may have the advantage of wisdom and life experience, but we must also strive to keep our writing fresh, authentic, and relatable to today's youth.
In this follow-up blog, we will explore new and innovative ways for aging writers to connect with young people and their characters, enabling us to create vibrant, realistic portrayals of the younger generation.
Embrace Technology and Social Media:
One of the most significant changes since our teenage years is the advent of technology and social media. As writers, we need to familiarize ourselves with the digital landscape in which today's youth live. This means understanding popular social media platforms, online trends, and communication styles. Engaging with young readers on these platforms can provide invaluable insights into their thoughts, interests, and concerns. It can help us portray their interactions and emotions more authentically in our writing. I know - you might be rolling your eyes or sticking out your tongues, but you have to stay up to date on the latest technology and social media trends.
Participate in Online Communities:
Young people often congregate in online communities centered around their favorite books, shows, movies, or hobbies. Joining these communities not only allows us to observe and understand their passions but also creates opportunities for meaningful interactions. Engaging in discussions with young readers can provide valuable feedback and ideas for our writing, as well as build a sense of camaraderie between us and our target audience.
Attend Young Adult Events and Conferences:
Literary events, conventions, and workshops focused on young adult fiction can be invaluable for an aging writer seeking to connect with young readers. Not only do these events offer the chance to meet and interact with our audience, but they also provide insights into the current trends, themes, and issues that resonate with today's youth. And networking with fellow writers and industry professionals can keep us abreast of the latest developments in the young adult genre.
Engage in Sensitivity Reading:
As we write about young characters with diverse backgrounds and experiences, it's essential to ensure authenticity and avoid harmful stereotypes. Consider working with sensitivity readers from various backgrounds to gain insights into cultural nuances, experiences, and perspectives. By doing so, we can create more respectful and representative portrayals that resonate with a broader range of young readers.
Stay Curious and Open-Minded:
Aging should never become a barrier to understanding and connecting with younger generations. Stay curious about the world they inhabit, their values, and their aspirations. Be open-minded and willing to learn from them, as this willingness to grow will enrich both our writing and our lives.
Update Yourself and Your Wardrobe:
If you're a writer aiming to captivate young minds and be seen as a role model in their eyes, there's an often overlooked but significant aspect to consider – your style. Kids can be quite discerning and eager to connect with someone they perceive as hip and cool, especially during book signings or school presentations. While this may seem like a daunting task, it doesn't have to be about spending a fortune on a wardrobe overhaul or a drastic hairstyle change. It's about being authentic, relatable, and showcasing your unique personality.
As aging writers, we possess a treasure trove of experiences and insights that can enrich our young adult fiction. However, to remain relevant and create compelling characters, we must actively seek to connect with today's youth. Embracing technology, participating in online communities, attending young adult events, engaging in sensitivity reading, and staying curious are all essential steps in this journey.
By bridging the generation gap, we can create stories that resonate deeply with young readers, shaping their lives, thoughts, and dreams, just as the books we read in our youth influenced us. Let's embrace the challenge and delight of understanding and representing the youth of today as we continue to evolve as writers.
Until next time,
Be Cool & Write~on
Angie
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