Guest Writer
Teen columnist
I am beginning to think that all one has to do to write a best-seller is to throw in a few characters whose minds are two dimensional at best, a fantasy element such as vampires, werewolves or ghosts, and a plot that discusses the trials and tribulations of a blossoming romance between a human and said fantasy element.
This is how Stephenie Meyers raked in millions with her four novels: “Twilight,” “New Moon,” “Eclipse” and “Breaking Dawn.”
The number of followers this author has acquired is proof that the appreciation for thought-provoking, down-to-earth literature has been lost.
The books were not only easy reads but lacked the ability to present themselves as enjoyable; and, yes, I did read them all.
I remember getting a slip of paper from the library that said something along the lines of “if you liked Twilight, you’ll love these books!” and I was appalled by the fact that my favorite fantasy book “Blood and Chocolate” was the first mentioned.
I do not consider said book a brilliant piece of literature, but it is, in my opinion, far more deserving of the title “best book of the year” than anything Stephenie Meyers is able to cough up.
Annette Curtis Klause, the author of “Blood and Chocolate,” not only develops her characters in a way that leaves you feeling as if they are, indeed, real people, but also provides a plot that is thickly laced with the perfect dosages of angst, romance and drama.
This is unlike Meyers, who builds her characters and plot upon clichés: the klutzy but insightful “plain Jane” who is destined to win over the mysterious, “sexy,” apathetic vampire who genuinely changes once he finds love.
I believe the only reason a movie of the first book, “Twilight,” was produced is because of Meyer’s collection of avid readers and followers. The producers realized they would be rolling in dough.
And I will admit, the movie became far more appealing than the book within the first few minutes.
So for those of you who claim to like the book only because a majority of your friends dub it “amazing,” read it for yourself. Actually take the time and read between the lines – search for any traces of genuine profoundness, and I doubt you will find many.
Don’t rely on others’ opinions, but do take them into account. Judge for yourself whether the books are worth such praise.
Worst case scenario: You just wasted a few hours of your life.
Ashlee Maez is a junior at Tucson High Magnet School.
E-mail: kailachi@yahoo.com
ASHLEE MAEZ
letters@tucsoncitizen.com
Teen columnist