The 21st century is the golden age of young adult literature. Award winning writers who have traditionally written for the adult market are now trying their hand at young adult literature - fantastic writing is coming out of this genre. We will examine the literature, discuss its role in our society, and determine what it means for young adults and other readers of this genre. We will examine mainly northwest literature, discuss its role in our society, and determine what it means for young adults and other readers of this genre.