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Jason Reynolds says teen lives are complex. His books honor these struggles

Author Jason Reynolds asserts that teen literature serves as a crucial reflection of complex lives, designed to "honor that truth" during difficult times. He views these stories as essential tools for youth navigating modern realities.
Reynolds, a former National Ambassador for Young People's Literature, champions diverse storytelling, including video games, to boost literacy. He argues that engaging youth through multiple art forms effectively helps them understand their own voices.
Speaking via Zoom from his Washington, D.C. home, Reynolds described books as "medicine" that helps readers "manage and to cope" with reality. He emphasizes that literature validates the often intense experiences of teenagers.
His project, *Soundtrack*, features young creators "wrangling with challenges," providing a space for expression beyond traditional formats. Reynolds believes these connections are vital for teens who "see themselves depicted" in the art they consume.
Addressing book bans, Reynolds avoids direct conflict, urging critics to "just don't wish me harm, or don't try to enact laws that will cause harm." He prioritizes protecting young readers' well-being over political debates.

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Jason Reynolds says teen lives are complex. His books honor these struggles

During troubled times, books and stories are sometimes seen as a distraction from more important matters, says Jason Reynolds. “I hear this. It’s like, ‘We don’t have time for books,’ says the award-winning author, rejecting the notion before offering his…

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