Last fall the publishing industry pumped its latest marketing move by highlighting a new genre of books: New Adult. The category extends young adult reads and takes high school students to college and beyond. New Adult fiction is designed for readers 18-25, and the content focuses on issues that particular age group faces: college, new jobs, relationships, breaking away from family life, and living on one’s own.
Although new, the genre has pushed books to the top of the bestseller lists, creating industry buzz. Critics call the genre a slap in the face to young adult and adult fiction, as well as a staged marketing move by the publishing industry. I disagree. Besides offering more to the bookworms of the world, breaking down genres can help organize and focus a reader. Offering a variety of books can only be a good think, in my opinion. Hopefully, new adult books will help catapult the publishing industry.
Who knows, maybe I’ll find a new niche for myself.