Edginess Factor: How I Rate Books

Once upon a time, when I was a YA, I liked to read edgy books about teens engaged in risky behavior and the consequences they faced. Things have not changed. These types of books are still popular and some of the books that I read and liked are still on reading lists today.However, it is important to remember that not every book is right for every reader. Some families don't feel that teens should read about adult issues and themes until they are older. Some families are not comfortable with certain types of books. As a librarian, I respect the wishes of families to make decisions about what their members read. Families generally want their members to read books that reflect their own family's values.In order to make sure that I am not making blanket recommendations for the books listed on this site, I have rated books by what I call their "edginess factor". This is a purely subjective determination on my part. In other words, it is just my opinion.I am using a rating from 1 to 4, with 1 being the least edgy and 4 being the most.Edginess Factor of 1 - Contains 1 or more of the following: conflict, making or almost making poor choices, some risky behavior, tragedy, exposure to bullying, etc.Examples - Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson and Al Capone Does My Shirts by Gennifer CholdenkoEdginess Factor of 2 - Contains 1 or more of the following: conflict, characters making or almost making poor choices, some risky behavior, tragedy, graphic violence, sexual overtones, etc.Examples - Pirates by Celia Rees and Eragon by Christopher Paolini Edginess Factor of 3 - Contains 1 or more of the following: high level of conflict, teens making poor choices and/or engaging in risky behavior, tragedy, violence, minor use of drugs or alcohol, some sexual themes, etc. Ending is redemptive and positive and shows negative behavior consequences.Examples - Rats Saw God by Rob Thomas and Prom by Laurie Halse AndersonEdginess Factor of 4 - Contains 1 or more of the following: high level of conflict, deliberately making poor choices, highly risky behavior, tragedy, violence, high level of use of alcohol and drugs, strong sexual themes, disturbing images, etc. Ending may or may not be redemptive.Example - Gossip Girl SeriesA book with an Edginess Factor of 4 is basically an adult book.