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I am always on the look out for good young adult books for my teenage son. I've been surprised by some of what I've found in books that are written for the teens. I don't allow profanity, gratuitous violence or sex in my home, so books containing scenes of this nature are not what I consider great reads-I believe books should be realistically drawn but they should also teach or embrace core character values.

Christian fiction books are perfect for teens because they don't need to only read about what the world has to say about sex and violence, but also read what the Bible has to say about these things. As a Christian writer, I believe books written in this genre show teen readers that God is the answer to every problem, no matter how big or small. This is a lesson, readers of all ages can learn.

Author Stephanie Perry Moore has a wonderful set of Christian middle grade and teen series written for boys and girls. I love that the books aren't preachy but deal with issues that teens face every single day. I had a large teen readership for my adult books, which prompted me to write a Christian series for young adults as well. It is my goal to write books that will cause my young readership to turn to God during those difficult periods in life.

Great Christian fiction books for teens should not just entertain readers but also educate, inspire and empower them. Teens today are facing so much and they don't need to pick up a book glorifying drugs, gangs and sexual freedom. Writers are skilled enough to paint a picture without making it so vivid that our readers find their resolve weakening. Worldly influences surround teens and they are faced with such pressure, so they need a constant reminder that God is with them and He will move on their behalf in the time of trouble-they only have to call out.

There are some wonderful Christian fiction reads available for teens, but some of the challenges is that teens don't always want to read the 'good' books. They want to read books that are considered erotic, racy and filled with profanity. When asked why, the response is that the books speaks to their lives-they're real. So what does that say about our society?

I preview every book my son brings into our home and we discuss his reason for his choice. I'm usually pleased with his selections and I use every story as a teachable moment. I can't shield him from worldly influences but I can equip him with the tools to help him make wise choices.

Learn more about this author, J. Thornton-Thomas.
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