An analysis of young adult fiction using queer theory

Abstract

The aim of this dissertation is to analyse the way in which Queer Theory may be applied to young adult fiction novels which contain characters who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transsexual, (summarised henceforth as LGBT) in order to better understand reader/character relationships and how they are produced along with the affects these may have on the target audience. Chapter 1 of this dissertation involves the presents an overview of the history of Queer Theory and Young Adult Fiction so as to better contextualise the two. This chapter also contains the general background of the three novels being analysed. Namely, Donovan’s I’ll Get There. It Better be Worth The Trip, Garden’s Annie on My Mind, and Chbsoky’s The Perks of Being a Wallflower. The second chapter delves into the structuring of young adult fiction literature, focusing on the way reader/character relationships are created and reinforced and how coming of age novels may be used as coming out novels. The third chapter has a stronger theoretical influence since it deals with the work of Butler and Blackburn and Clark showing how their theories may be applied in order to understand characterisation and the effects this has on readers. Characterisation is one of the chief focus points of the dissertation since it is a key component of the appeal of young adult fiction. Chapter 4 explores the issue of heteronormativity in queer fiction whilst also providing insight on the niche audience of LGBT young adult fiction. The Conclusion highlights the affects that the theories applied have had in analysing the novels and how the theoretical evaluation of the novels provides insight into the significance of context, characterisation and reader/character relationships.