We all know adults who read YA have nothing to be ashamed of. But I’m not content to read YA just for my happy little self. You see, I’m a pusher.

Back when I was a manager at my workplace, I asked two of my employees if they’d read Harry Potter. They laughed in my face. So I left the first 3 books on their desks and made it clear we’d discuss the books during their next performance review. Guess what? They loved them!

So obviously, I am an expert on how best to handle friends, family members, and co-workers who won’t read the YA you’re dying to share. But if you don’t happen to supervise the people you’re trying to convince, I put together a list of techniques that have worked for me.

  1. Give the gift of YA—When you buy a present for someone, they feel loved. And also guilty, which they will want to alleviate by reading what you gave them. This works even better if you tell them the book made you think of them. (By the way: No need to mention you got the book as a free blog giveaway.)
  2. Because I said so—There’s a reason parents say this. When you add the word “because” to your request, even if what comes after it means nada, people are more likely to do what you ask. Some options: Because I asked you to. Because I loved it and think you will to. Because I’m breaking up with you if you don’t.
  3. Make a deal—Figure out what the other person loves, and use it. Maybe they keep raving about a TV show or a band or a wine bar. Say you’ll try their fave wine bar if they’ll try your fave YA. I know, I know, the sacrifices we make to spread our love of YA!
  4. Everyone’s doing it—Call out any other YA lovers they might know. Talk about how you’re all going to the latest hot YA release party or book-to-movie opening. Your goal is to make them feel left out, and that’s your moment to swoop in for the kill.
  5. Whine—If all else fails, channel your inner YA main character. Whine like you’re 16 and your crush since 6th grade is at the Party of the Year, but your mom won’t let you have the keys to the car.

Finally, a bonus not-a-tip: I once tried to convince a co-worker to read YA by telling him that if he didn’t, it would prove his inner child was dead. And here’s what I learned from that experience: People don’t generally like to be told that their inner child is dead. Go figure.

Your turn: How have you convinced your friends to give YA a whirl? Leave a comment with your tips!

Photo by wellohorld.

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