MG or YA or Whatever? · Marlowe and Christie Writers

MG or YA or Whatever?

I wrote this as a comment to another post but I thought it might deserve its own place here among we struggling scribblers.

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I'm writing a book about a modern boy who meets the ghosts of Indians (yeah, I know) who once lived where he does now. I never heard of MG until your post. I knew my book wasn't an adult book but I didn't know what to call it or who might read it. I was only vaguely aware of YA. I asked Chat GPT what MG and YA are, especially with reference to my book. I got back a lengthy and interesting response, too long to share here. If this topic interests you, I encourage you to do the same.

Here are the basics. The entire answer was much deeper and more involved.

Middle Grade (MG)

Ages roughly 8–12
Protagonist usually 10–13
Focus: discovery, belonging, courage
No romance focus
Adults exist but aren’t central
Emotional stakes matter more than physical danger

Young Adult (YA)

Ages roughly 13–18
Identity, autonomy, first love, rebellion
Strong inner conflict
Adults often obstacles

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The idea of MG and YA writing is new to me. I was reading books at those ages (I'm an old man now) so someone must have been writing for me, thankfully. I'd like to hear your thoughts about MG and YA writing and how you think it differs from mainstream writing for adults, beyond the obvious sex and blood.

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