I wanted to learn about this field, but this book didn't really teach me anything I didn't already know. The first 10 chapters are just basic story-craft. If you have never studied ANY literature -- or just don't remember your ninth grade English class -- this will be helpful; it is accurate and solid (and well-edited!). If, on the other hand, you have read most of the YA novels the author references, you already know everything she has to teach you (you just might not know the technical terms). As "Fiction 101," this book rates 5 stars; unfortunately, it is not being sold as "Fiction 101." It is being sold as "Everything You Need to Know," which it is definitely not.

Like other reviewers, I found it strangely bothersome that the author kept referring to the immaturity of YA readers. Okay, so young adults are by definition "immature," as in they have not reached the biological maturity of adulthood. Young adults still have growing to do. However, I would argue that complicated and serious fiction helps the growth process along. Talking down to your YA audience won't get you anywhere