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Life Lessons From YA Authors

Because John Green isn't the only one to make us smile or cry

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Life Lessons From YA Authors
Barnes and Noble

Writers bring the words and their words bring us emotion. As someone who loves to write in a certain style or about certain topics, I also love to read books and novels from authors I aspire to be like. Nothing is better than immersing yourself into a good read and being able to pick out specific quotes or lines that have special meanings to you or your life- this is why reading is so important and can take us places we have never been before. The way that an author can phrase what they want to say can be beautiful and poetic if you think about the meaning of the texts. Authors who are able to connect with their audience and provide comfort with their words are some of the wisest. Here are some words from authors who have written novels, books, or poems that contain words that may pull at our heart strings.

The Perks of Being a Wallflower- “Things change. And friends leave. Life doesn’t stop for anybody.” (Stephen Chebosky) Chebosky’s quote reminds us that sometimes things don’t work out for a reason but we have to keep going on with our lives. We can’t sit around and pout because we don’t know what is coming next for us. Everything is always changing and life can be quite the ride.

A Work in Progress- “It’s okay. It may not seem like it right now, but you are going to be fine. I know it’s scary, but don’t be afraid.” (Connor Franta) In Franta’s memoir, he is giving a lesson to his young readers which is the real group his book is aimed at. Franta is assuring us that our teenage years may seem rough and we have a lot of decisions to make and growing up to do. But at the same time, we are all on our own paths to becoming who we are meant to be. We learn through our mistakes and overcome obstacles at a young age, but he promises that there is a light at the end of the tunnel and the darkness doesn’t continue forever.

It’s Kind of a Funny Story- “Sometimes I just think depression’s one way of coping with the world. Like, some people get drunk, some people do drugs, some people get depressed. Because there’s so much stuff out there that you have to do something to deal with it.” (Ned Vizzini) In Vizzini’s line, he is telling us how everyone deals with their sadness in different ways and that we all have our own journeys toward emotional recovery. There are so many options and choices to make when it comes to life that it can be really difficult.

Thirteen Reasons Why- “Sometimes we have thoughts that we don’t understand. Thoughts that aren’t even true- that aren’t really how we feel-but they’re running through our heads anyway because they’re interesting to think about.” (Jay Asher) Asher writes how it is perfectly normal to let our thoughts become wild and abstract. Emotional thoughts are part of who we are on the inside. They can be scary or bring joy but our thoughts are our own to keep sacred.

An Abundance of Katherines- “What is the point of being alive if you don’t at least try to do something remarkable?" (John Green) Green is emphasizing the fact that we are only given one life to live. It's our decision as to how our stories play out. Life is beautiful; there is so much life out there to be explored. Fall in love, travel the world, become successful. Have the motivation to get out of bed everyday to do something incredible and leave your mark on the world.

Dirty Pretty Things- “I write because you exist.” (Michael Faudet) This quote is particularly my favorite. In Faudet’s book of poems, he writes beautiful lines about love and relationships. Faudet, as well as many writers find their writing inspirations in the people around them. Whether individuals may bring us tears, smiles or laughter, there is always something to write about. The beauty of a person can be so strong and the words used to describe them may be impactful or powerful.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollows- “Do not pity the dead, Harry. Pity the living, and, above all those who live without love.” (J.K. Rowling) Rowling’s brilliant quote hints that we need to surround ourselves and those around us with love. Love and support for one another is important. Remember that.

Anne of Green Gables- “Isn’t it nice to think that tomorrow is a new day with no mistakes in it yet?” (Lucy Maud Montgomery) It’s important to remember that the sun comes up everyday. Every day, we have the chance to better ourselves and inspire others. We can correct our mistakes from yesterday but we also cannot change the past. Although you should look forward for new days and new opportunities, it is important to not dwell not regrets.

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This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
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