Resource Spotlight: Teenreads.com
Teenreads.com, part of The Book Report Network, has been posting reviews, author interviews, and other resources since 1997. Though designed with teen readers in mind, the information available can be valuable for librarians as well.
The book reviews make up a large portion of the site. They’re written by a panel of reviewers that includes librarians, writers, booksellers, and teens. The reviews are typically a few paragraphs long and tend to focus on plot synopsis, with a bit of critique at the end. This style of review allows the reader to make a decision about whether or not to read the book without being influenced too much by the reviewer’s opinion. They can also be useful for reader’s advisory, as a librarian can get a sense of the book’s story and tone without having to read it. Each of the reviews also includes links to reviews of the author’s other books (if any) and some include links to book excerpts, author interviews, and other extras that can enhance the reading experience.
The site’s Ultimate Reading List is a compilation of over 300 titles that are ideal for reading and discussion. Books were selected by teens and the site’s contributors. Annotated with short synopses and links to reviews and reading guides, the list includes both YA and adult books.
For those running book discussion groups, the site has tips for starting and maintaining a book club and discussion questions and activities for dozens of current and classic teen titles.
The site also features author interview and profiles, previews and synopses of new books, a books into movies feature, and lots of polls, contests, and giveaways. The blog offers additional author features that don’t seem to be included in the regular author section of the site.
Overall, the site is a comprehensive resource for YA lit readers and those who serve YA readers. For a periodic overview of new content, subscribe to the newsletter for a monthly e-mail update.
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