Experiments in YA: Visual, Social, and Print Media

AFTER

First introduced on Wattpad, AFTER is set to release in print on October 21, 2014, but the print version is only a small piece of the story of AFTER. Some background first: Wattpad is a free online community of readers and writers. Stories can be shared and written from any internet connected device: phone, tablet, or computer. Writers can upload new material whenever they choose. Readers receive instant updates from favorite authors when new chapters are added. Readers can also instantly message authors, creating an open dialog between fans and authors.

And the fans of AFTER have created a constantly evolving and expanding world that has taken over the internet with over 1 billion readers. Yes, that is billion. AFTER moved into Twitter and Instagram, and author Anna Todd created a massive following by sharing the photos, videos, art, and music created by her readers. I’m curious to see how the print version stays true to the origins of AFTER.

TWEEN HOBO: OFF THE RAILS

Based on the popular Twitter feed @tweenhobo, TWEEN HOBO OFF THE RAILS is an illustrated, diary-form story that contains doodles, maps, games, jokes, and stories. Again the origins of TWEEN HOBO lies in social media and the power ardent fans and a delightful character.

With only a 140 characters per tweet, author Alena Smith created a wonderfully complex, funny, and compelling character who obvs. needed her own book! Fresh Fiction Reviewer Monique Daoust had this to say, “I lol'd lots cuz it's obvs like, you know, funny.”

HOLLOW CITY

HOLLOW CITY is the second book in MISS PEREGRINE'S HOME FOR PECULIAR CHILDREN and combines a creepy, haunting tale with vintage photography. I love this blend of past technology with modern storytelling. The haunting images not only capture a time long gone but it shows the absolute height of technology for that time. Technology will grow and change, but finding the value and art in what is often considered useless or obsolete is a skill. What will people find value in when our technology has grown old? Where will people find the stories and how will they be told? It’s an intriguing thought and part of the reason MISS PEREGRINE'S HOME FOR PECULIAR CHILDREN is so interesting.