Special Themes in Literature: Young Adult Literature—Diversity Intensive (online)

English 3110
Section 01
Semester
Spring
Year
2026
Kim McCaffrey
Asynchronous Online
Course Description

Why are so many Young Adult books banned? Join me in exploring the joys and controversies of Young Adult Literature, a hugely popular part of the current book scene for adults as well as teens. Together we’ll engage in Diversity Intensive topics including immigration, queer identity, living with disability and a princess finding her power on a pirate adventure. This course is asynchronous online.

Required texts:  Clap When You Land by Elizabeth Acevedo; Messy Roots by Laura Gao; Twenty-Four Seconds from Now by Jason Reynolds; Something’s Wrong with Micah by Jamison Hill; and All the Stars and Teeth by Adalyn Grace.  Additional critical articles and essays about YA literature will be provided on Canvas.

Coursework: Reading journals; weekly discussion boards; two papers; one creative project.  No exams or quizzes.