Growing Up Too Fast: The Role of Puberty in Adolescent Literature

Puberty is a time of rapid physical and emotional change, as children transition into adolescence and experience a range of hormonal and physiological changes. These changes can have a profound impact on the lives of young people, and are often explored in adolescent literature. In this blog post, we will explore the role of puberty in adolescent literature, and how it can help young people navigate this challenging time in their lives.

The Physical and Emotional Challenges of Puberty

Puberty is a time of intense physical and emotional change, as young people experience growth spurts, develop secondary sexual characteristics, and navigate the challenges of hormonal changes. These changes can be overwhelming, and can lead to feelings of confusion, anxiety, and self-doubt.

Adolescent literature often explores the physical and emotional challenges of puberty, and can help young people understand and cope with these changes. For example, in Judy Blume's Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret, the protagonist Margaret struggles with the challenges of puberty, including her first period and her developing breasts. Through Margaret's experiences, readers can learn about the physical and emotional changes that occur during puberty, and how to navigate them with grace and resilience.

The Impact of Puberty on Identity and Self-Discovery

Puberty is also a time of intense self-discovery, as young people explore their identities and discover who they are as individuals. Adolescent literature often explores the impact of puberty on identity and self-discovery, and can help young people understand and accept themselves for who they are.

For example, in Stephenie Meyer's Twilight series, the protagonist Bella Swan experiences a range of emotional and physical changes as she navigates her relationship with the vampire Edward Cullen. Through her experiences, Bella learns about the importance of self-acceptance and the value of embracing her own unique identity.

Navigating Relationships During Puberty

Puberty can also have a profound impact on relationships, as young people navigate the challenges of romantic relationships, friendships, and family dynamics. Adolescent literature often explores the complexities of relationships during puberty, and can help young people understand and navigate these challenges.

For example, in Louise Rennison's Angus, Thongs and Full-Frontal Snogging, the protagonist Georgia navigates the challenges of her first romantic relationship, as well as the complexities of her relationships with her friends and family. Through Georgia's experiences, readers can learn about the importance of communication, empathy, and the value of human connection during puberty.

The Importance of Mental Health During Puberty

Puberty can also have a profound impact on mental health, as young people navigate the challenges of hormonal changes, peer pressure, and academic stress. Adolescent literature can help young people understand and cope with these challenges, and can promote positive mental health during this important time in their lives.

For example, in Laurie Halse Anderson's Speak, the protagonist Melinda struggles with depression and anxiety following a traumatic experience. Through Melinda's experiences, readers can learn about the importance of seeking help for mental health challenges, and the value of self-care during puberty.

The Intersection of Puberty and Social Justice

Puberty can also intersect with social justice issues, as young people navigate the challenges of discrimination, prejudice, and inequality. Adolescent literature can help young people understand and address these issues, and can empower them to become advocates for social justice.

For example, in Angie Thomas's The Hate U Give, the protagonist Starr navigates the complexities of race, prejudice, and police brutality. Through Starr's experiences, readers can learn about the importance of standing up for what is right, and the value of advocating for social justice during puberty.

Puberty is a challenging and transformative time in the lives of young people, and adolescent literature can help them navigate these changes with grace and resilience. By exploring the physical and emotional challenges in Broken Objects, we can explore the outliers and extremes from a safe distance learning how we can do better.