Navigating the Awkward Gap between Middle Grade and YA

An overview of the factors that contribute to market designation in books for older children

Traditionally grouped together as children’s books, middle grade (MG) and young adult (YA) literature are two distinct categories, each with its own nuances. Although adults might be active consumers of young adult (YA) books, they are not the intended audience—but nor are children. Libraries and bookstores generally designate a separate section for YA books but place MG books in the same section as books for children of all ages.

While the MG category has its own gray areas, the YA . . .

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