What are the common themes in Jennifer Smith's young adult novels?

Jennifer Smith has created some really engaging young adult novels. For example, 'This Is What Happy Looks Like'. It's about a teen who starts an online relationship with a famous actor and then they meet in real life, filled with all the typical teen emotions and challenges.

Common themes include identity formation. Young adults in novels often struggle to figure out who they are, where they belong. Also, family relationships play a big role, like in 'To All the Boys I've Loved Before' where family love and the relationship with sisters are important aspects along with the romantic themes. Another one is dealing with social issues such as bullying, which can be seen in many YA novels as it is a relevant problem for the young adult age group.

One common theme is self - discovery. In these novels, the gay characters are often on a journey to understand their sexual orientation and what it means for their identity. For example, in 'Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda', Simon has to figure out how to come out in a way that is true to himself.

Love in young adult novels frequently has themes like self - sacrifice and redemption. Characters might be redeemed through the power of love. And then there's the theme of love as a motivation. It can drive characters to achieve great things or to fight against injustice. For example, in some dystopian young adult novels, the love for a family member or a romantic partner gives the protagonist the strength to stand up against an oppressive regime.

Friendship is also a common theme. Lesbian young adult novels often show the importance of having supportive friends who accept the character's sexual orientation. And there can be themes related to coming out, like the fear and the relief that comes with it. The characters might be worried about how their peers will react, but also feel liberated once they are open about their identity.

In young adult spy novels, a prevalent theme is identity. The young spies often have to hide their true identities or figure out who they really are in the context of their spy lives. Another theme is the struggle for power. They might be up against powerful organizations or individuals. Additionally, the theme of sacrifice is often present. The young spies sometimes have to give up normal teenage things to fulfill their spy duties, like missing out on school events or time with family and friends in order to save the day.

One common theme is self - discovery. The characters often struggle to figure out their sexual orientation and come to terms with it. For example, in many novels, the protagonist may initially deny or be confused about her feelings for another girl.

Rebellion is also prevalent. Similar to the power and danger associated with a pistol, young characters in these novels might rise up against unjust authorities. For example, in many dystopian young adult novels, the protagonists fight against oppressive governments. They use their wits and courage, much like one would use a pistol, but in a non - literal way, to take on the powerful forces that are oppressing them.

Struggle and resilience is also a major theme. Young adults in these novels face many challenges related to their health, society's perception, and their own future. But they also show great resilience in the face of adversity. They fight against the stigma, try to lead a normal life as much as possible, and find ways to make a difference in the world, whether it's through activism or just by living their lives to the fullest despite their condition.

One common theme is oppression. In these novels, the young protagonists often face a system that restricts their freedom, like in 'The Hunger Games' where the Capitol oppresses the districts. Another theme is resistance. The characters usually fight against the unjust system, for example, Tris in 'Divergent' rebels against the faction system. And there's often a sense of a broken or false utopia, where the society seems perfect on the surface but is actually deeply flawed underneath, as in 'The Giver'.