Old article but since news are slow:
http://www.examiner.com/article/why-...ian-literature
Quote:
What is it about dystopian Young Adult Literature that young folks need so much?
It provides a healthy outlet for exploring socially-unacceptable topics within our own spheres and communities.
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It helps us see new, different perspectives than we're capable of from our own limited experience.
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It helps us sort out and express feelings and emotions, providing cathartic release and relief.
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It inspires us with often-courageous, defiant (in a healthy way), quirky & unique protagonists (main characters) who overcome barriers and limitations. Where true life often fails to provide heroes, young adult literature steps up and shows us young men and young women who struggle and fail, but also learn and win.
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More at the source.
I always thought dystopias were useful because they are easy to build out of contemporary anxieties and easy to build conflict into.