A chat with Sam Cameron on the YA market and reaching teen readers

Sam is a high school teacher, YA writer, and editor of kids' books, and this combination gives her a unique perspective on writing books that appeal to teen readers. In this conversation, Sam and I discuss themes in YA, current YA trends, and how to engage teen readers. This conversation premiered during KidLit Summer Camp 2024.
Sam Cameron (she/her) is a high school history teacher, YA author, and Author Accelerator certified book coach, specializing in books for children. She is the creator of the Substack "Truant Pen," a newsletter offering practical advice to stuck writers. Sam currently serves as critique group coordinator for the MD/ DE/ WV chapter of the Society for Children’s Books Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI).
I'm Sara Gentry, a math Ph.D. turned Author Accelerator certified book coach. I help writers find the solutions they need to write books they love.