Oftentimes teens need an escape from the world that they live in. Whether it is the pressure of school, or the social drama, an escape gives solace to teens. Teenagers are often drawn to fantasy literature because it offers escapism and empowerment. The time period of being a teen, also known as adolescence, is marked by a search for identity affiliated with a desire for independence, and all this together makes for an overwhelming life. Fantasy allows teens to find peace and reconnect with their childhood in many different ways. 

Additionally, fantasy literature offers teens an opportunity to explore their own sense of power. They get the ability to feel in control of a universe which is a rootedness needed in a world of uncertainty. Teens gain the ability to strengthen their power and self courage through characters and they get to determine their own ending. 

At the same time this literary world allows for teens to go through worlds that might not exist in real life. They get the opportunity to explore themes such as injustice and loss alongside happiness and peace. This gives them a headstart among their peers as they are able to understand complex emotions and situations which might not be possible in other ways. These benefits make it clear that teens have a certain direction towards these sorts of novels and fiction. This literature acts as both a way to leave their own lives alongside a way to gain new skills and tendencies which would otherwise go unnoticed. This getaway is of utmost importance in the development of adolescence into adults. 

Overall, the strongest reason why teens are drawn into fantasy is its ability to soothe and allocate power amongst young teenagers who are growing up in a world full of uncertainty and the promise of change. 

This blog post was written by Isha Popat.

 Hey, writers, let’s face it: we all know that familiar tug of procrastination. It lurks in the corners of our creative spaces, whispering sweet nothings of distraction while we wrestle with that formidable blank page. Yet, as maddening as it can be, there’s an undeniable rhythm to this dance between intention and avoidance. For many of us, it becomes a curious partner in our creative process, providing both frustration and inspiration in equal measure.
 
Procrastination is often viewed as the villain in the narrative of productivity. We’ve all heard the advice: “Just sit down and write!” Yet, in the chaos of our minds, taking that step can often feel monumental. So, we scroll through endless social media feeds, reorganize our bookshelves by color, or find ourselves down the rabbit hole of documentary binges (we’re all guilty of something). However, each detour, while seemingly unproductive, holds potential. Sometimes, we stumble upon a thought or idea that we wouldn’t have formed in a more regimented state.
 
There’s something almost poetic about these moments of diversion. In sinking our teeth into a new hobby or indulging in a random burst of experimentation, we often unearth fragments of inspiration that can blend seamlessly into our narratives. Procrastination, when embraced, can foster unexpected connections and expand our horizons as creators. A fleeting thought while washing dishes might evolve into an entirely new character; an afternoon spent gardening could lead to the perfect metaphor for growth.
 
Moreover, this tendency to delay can be a calling card of the over-thinker. The incessant mental chatter, the agonizing contemplation of every word and sentence, can lead to paralysis. Ironically, through our avoidance, we might discover what’s truly holding us back: fear of imperfection, pressure to conform, or simply the weight of expectation. Recognizing procrastination as a revealing insight can shift its power from an adversary to a friend.
 
The key lies in finding balance. Allow yourself those moments of retreat, but don’t let them consume you. Set aside blocks of time where you commit to just five minutes of writing. You may be surprised at how the initial resistance melts away, revealing a surge of words that had been waiting, buried beneath layers of distraction.
 
In the end, procrastination might not be the nasty inconvenience we often perceive, but rather a necessary part of our artistic journey. It invites us to slow down and reflect, allowing for spontaneity and creativity to flourish in unexpected ways. So, the next time you find yourself dodging the page, welcome the distraction, but remember to return to your craft. After all, the beauty of writing lies not only in the act itself, but in the myriad experiences that color our words. Embrace the messiness of it all, for within lies the essence of your unique voice. Happy reading and writing!

This blog post was written by Ralia Farah.

In an age where the written word is more accessible than ever, the act of reading remains a timeless rite of passage for aspiring writers. There’s an undeniable magic in a well-crafted sentence, a rhythm that dances across the mind and touches the heart. Yet, for many burgeoning authors, the question looms: why should we invest time in reading the work of others? The answer is simple yet profound: reading is not merely a pastime, but a powerful catalyst for growth in our own writing.
​
The Foundation of Craft
By immersing ourselves in the works of esteemed authors—be they the classics or contemporary voices—we absorb the nuances of language, structure, and style. Each book is a masterclass in its own right, offering lessons in character development, plot pacing, and emotional resonance. We learn what works and what doesn’t, what evokes a gasp or a tear, what sends chills down spines or makes hearts swell.

By analyzing other’s techniques, we can glean insights into our own writing. Reading becomes an apprenticeship; every word we devour hones our instincts, informs our choices, and refines our voice.

A Window into Diverse Perspectives
Reading widely opens the door to perspectives we may not encounter in our day-to-day lives. It stirs empathy within us, allowing us to inhabit the consciousness of characters from backgrounds vastly different from our own. Whether it’s the suffocating desolation in a dystopian novel or the tender joys found in a coming-of-age story, these narratives expand our understanding of the human experience.

As writers, we are tasked with the responsibility to convey complex truths about our world. To do that effectively, we must first listen to the voices that enrich our literary landscape. Engaging with diverse authors fosters a deeper appreciation for the tapestry of experiences that shape our society, prompting us to ask: how can my writing contribute to this collective dialogue?

Inspiration and Creativity
Sometimes, there is no better muse than the work of other authors. A beautifully written passage can ignite a spark of creativity, leading to unexpected avenues of thought and expression. When we encounter a narrative that resonates with us, it beckons us to explore our own stories, pushing us to delve deeper into our emotions and experiences.

Instead of viewing other writers as competitors, we should embrace them as collaborators in a larger conversation about storytelling. Each book we read can inspire us to rearrange the building blocks of our creativity, leading to fresh ideas and unique narratives that reflect our distinct voices.

The Art of Revision
Reading also teaches us the value of revision—a cornerstone of both literature and writing. Observing the seamless flow of a novel reminds us that behind every polished piece is an arduous process of rewriting and editing.

When we read, we witness firsthand the beauty of revision in action. We can appreciate the meticulous choices that shape a sentence, the deliberate pacing that builds tension, and the careful selection of words that evoke emotion. This understanding empowers us to embrace our own writing process with a mindset of patience and perseverance.

Conclusion: Weaving Our Narratives
As writers, we are part of an intricate tapestry of voices that weave together our cultural narrative. Each book we read adds another thread to our understanding of storytelling, enriching our craft with new insights and inspirations. So, as you pursue your writing journey, let the works of others guide you, challenge you, and ignite your passion.

In the end, reading is not just about escaping into new worlds; it is about finding our own place within them. By embracing the wisdom of those who came before us, we open the doors to our own potential, crafting stories that resonate long after the last page is turned. So, pick up a book, dive in, and let the alchemy of words transform you. Your voice is waiting to be discovered, and the world is eager to hear your story.

This blog post was written by Ralia Farah.