Young Adult Literature Manifesto Assignment

ENG 748

Spring 2018

Dr. Risam

Due: Sunday, May 13, 2018 on Canvas

Description of Assignment

Throughout the semester, you have been exploring the value and utility of young adult literature as a genre. We began with our examination of the New York Times Room for Debate series and our readings have taken us through a range of issues, from identity to representation to teaching. During this process, you have been chronicling your thoughts about young adult literature, both in your discussion board posts and your weekly reflections. The purpose of the manifesto assignment is to synthesize the ideas you have developed over the course of the semester to provide an answer to the following question: what is the value of young adult literature as a genre?

The genre of the manifesto is a short, polemical one. Manifestos are typically composed of short, declarative statements of value or views on an issue. I recommend you familiarize yourself with the genre and with some examples at the following links:

https://www.theatlantic.com/entertainment/archive/2014/06/manifestos-a-manifesto-the-10-things-all-manifestos-need/372135/

https://www.lifehack.org/articles/lifestyle/10-awesome-inspirational-manifestos.html

http://www.humanitiesblast.com/manifesto/Manifesto_V2.pdf

http://www.manifestos.net/titles/

Components

Length: 750-1000 words total (not including works cited)

Introduction: an introductory statement (just a few sentences) that explains the purpose and underlying philosophy of your manifesto.

Statements: a minimum of 10 statements that articulate your beliefs about young adult literature.

Concluding declaration: a final declaration that synthesizes your statements to articulate a coherent vision for the value of young adult literature.

A list of works cited: because you are synthesizing your experiences, thoughts, and reading in the course, you should be referencing course reading (either through direct quotation or through paraphrasing).

Style: While your manifesto can simply be text, you are welcome to take a more creative approach, such as creating a video for your manifesto or adding images to your manifesto.