Fictional Worlds of Peril (3:28)

Of all the worlds awaiting our youth, dangerous worlds can pack the biggest wallop. Dangerous settings in fiction abound, because they make compelling stories. But just how dangerous should they be? BYU English professor, Jon Ostenson, talks to Rachel today on Worlds Awaiting about the popularity of fictional worlds of peril, dystopia, and apocalypse. Jon specializes in literature for teens and young adults. He’s taught Junior High and High School English, and presently teaches courses in adolescent literature and publishes on the topic.

Book Characters with Disabilities (13:45)

Next, Rachel visits with Tina Dyches, professor in the BYU School of Education, and founder and current chair of the Dolly Gray Children’s Literature Award. She talks to Rachel about creating this award that began with her desire to encourage better fictional depictions of young characters with disabilities. Dr. Tina Taylor Dyches has worked in the field of education for 30 years, as a special educator, professor, and administrator. Her scholarship has resulted in three books about using children’s literature that include characters with special needs.

A few previous winners and recommendations from Dr. Dyches: 

Rain, Reign by Ann M. Martin 

My Brother Sammy by Becky Edwards 

My Brother Charlie by Holly Robinson Peet and Ryan Elizabeth Peet 

BYU HAROLD B. LEE LIBRARY – SPECIAL COLLECTIONS

Author Tips (24:24)

We finish up the show today with three authors – Wendelin Van Draanen, Breeana Shields, and Ann M. Martin – who offer some guidance for youth and adults who want to enter the world of writing. We hope some of what they say will spark some new ideas for your own use as a teacher, writer, parent, or mentor