Young Adult (YA) Book Reviews

Column Editor: Dr. Kevin Kienholz

Manuscript Submission Deadline: January 15

Manuscript Requirements

Young adult (YA) book reviews should feature books published within the past five years and be 300-500 words in length. Reviews should include the following:

1. a relevant and catchy title

2. a brief abstract (up to 50 words) and 3-5 keywords (review KE archives for examples)

3. the book’s year of publication and author

4. textual information (e.g., character, conflict, plot, setting, theme) – but no spoilers!

5. how/why the book will appeal to middle/high school readers

6. (optional) how the book could be included in a course curriculum

7. possible challenges that might arise from teaching the book

Visit THIS LINK to view a list of YA books that have been reviewed in previous issues of Kansas English.

Submission Requirements

Submit your manuscript to Column Editor Kevin Kienholz at kkienhol@emporia.edu, following the instructions below:  

Include the following information in the body of your email:

1. Full names, affiliations, email addresses, and brief bios of all authors

2. Title of submission

3. Statement that the manuscript is original, has not been published previously in other journals and/or books, and is not a simultaneous submission.

4. Statement disclosing your use of generative AI (artificial intelligence) in composing your manuscript, for example:

   1. I did not use generative AI in the creation of this manuscript.

   2. I used generative AI to (include any/all of the following as appropriate):

1. 1. • Summarize literature

      • Formulate ideas

      • Organize ideas

      • Produce drafts of texts

      • Revise and/or refine the text

      • Any other use not specified in this list

4. 3. If you used generative AI, you must also include a statement of use in the manuscript itself, after the references.

   4. You should err on the side of more disclosure/transparency, rather than less.

   5. Please note that generative AI may not be listed as an author.

Attach the manuscript as a single attachment to your email, ensuring that all manuscript requirements are met. 

•      Abstracts and key words should be included in the manuscript itself, not as another attachment (i.e., there should only be ONE attachment in your email to the Column Editor). 

During the academic year, look for a confirmation email from the Column Editor within 2-3 business days. If you do not receive an email confirming receipt of your submission, please resubmit.