I am having trouble with a book series that I have had recommended to me. The age specification is YA (Young Adult).
The main character of this series is a 16 year old female. The language, at this point, has been appropriate. Sexual scenes have been limited to a grope. The grope was quickly stopped by the virgin female. The male character, age 18, actually apologized. There have been references to having gone "to bed" regarding different characters, but no details... So far, so good.
The subject that I question is Wicca. The main character is discovering this new side of herself. Now, I don't have a problem with anyone's choice of religion, but something about this series bothers me. So far I think that Wicca is presented in the series, I am on book two, in an acceptable light. My problem is that a book or series written about a 16 year old will be read by those probably 12 years old and up.
The "Twilight" series by Stephanie Myers is all the rage with readers of all ages. I enjoyed the series myself. However, "Twilight" is about Vampires. Vampires are mythical creatures. An author may treat Vampires as good, bad, caring, stupid, intelligent, carniverous or just plain crazy.... but, the characters are still make-believe, airy-fairy.
Wicca is a religion seriously practiced by people today as well as yesterday.
I am concerned that a 12 year old who reads these books may or may not percieve Wicca acurately, much less seriously.
I would rather see this series, that I won't name, labeled as Paranormal without the YA attachment. My opinion as a bookstore owner, is that the cover presents itself as something that would attract a young teen reader. There is nothing there that says, "Hey Mom, look what the kiddo is reading".
I put the series down after the finishing the first book. My intention in reading the book was to be able to offer an opinion if asked. I remained troubled throughout the day and picked up the second book to see how the story continued. That incident in itself told me that this book, although written well, may be for an older audience. It piqued my interest and believe me I am older than 12, or 16, or even 32.
