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Dystopian literature: more than just the end of the world to teens


By Education Services Australia | 13 Oct, 2022

School Libraries & Resources
In an article for the Schools Catalogue Information Service (SCIS) Connections, Jessica Finden explores how dystopian literature could help encourage teens to explore and come to terms with their fears about the future.

A figure dressed in a big jacket and backpack stands in a dystopian room that has been destroyed over time, their back is to the camera.

Dystopian fiction has broad appeal among teenagers. According to Jessica Finden, teacher librarian at Carmel College, dystopian stories help teenagers confront their fears and uncertainties about the future while offering a hopeful message.

Dystopian fiction introduces us to characters who face challenges that reflect real world events, helping teenagers to forge opinions on important issues. It creates a safe space for students to imagine a ‘what if’ situation and consider what they might do in an apocalyptic world.

This article explores how, as a genre, dystopian literature is a useful resource for school libraries. Engaging dystopian stories can be a useful vehicle to learn about global challenges and action-packed stories can attract even the most reluctant readers. The diverse array of titles on offer ensures that students can read about any topic they are interested in, and minority communities can see themselves reflected in the characters.



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Education Services Australia (ESA) is a not-for-profit education technology company committed to making a positive difference in the lives and learning of Australian students. ESA works with all education systems and sectors to improve student outcomes, enhance teacher impact and strengthen school communities.