Age related categories are not an uncommon site in our libraries and bookstores. Every age group experiences different generational transitions and turmoil. Readers are looking for stories and characters that they can empathize with and authors are more than happy to fill that need. In fact Young Adult Literature is one of the highest selling categories. But YA literature is not the only age specific category that authors should be taking note of. There’s a new kid on the block called ‘Boomer Literature’.
What is Boomer Literature?
‘Boomer Literature’, named after the Baby Boomer generation, focuses on the issues of an aging generation, challenging the common stereotypes and expectations of what is age-appropriate. Not unlike Young Adult Literature, ‘Boomer Lit’ explores soul searching themes, the refusal to be marginalized, and changing aspirations in what is referred to as a ‘Second Adulthood’. Hollywood provides some good examples with movies like RED and The King’s Speech.
So how does this compare to other age related categories? Young Adult Literature focuses on pre-teens and teens ensconced in the chaos of puberty, social relationships, first loves, and the continual pressure to be popular. ‘New Adult’ Literature, another burgeoning category, is directed at 19 to 25 year olds, the pressures of college and the terror of starting your ‘Adult’ life. Adult Literature concentrates on success, careers, and the ever desperate attempts to keep your children from drawing Crayola masterpieces all over the walls while still trying to retain a sense of ‘self’. But the Boomers, having lived through all these, are now seeking fulfillment on their own terms, with characters at an age they can relate to.
So Why is it Being Overlooked?
Are authors listening to this call for a ‘Coming of Old Age’ genre? Currently, it seems to be a category that is overlooked, which is unfortunate. It certainly has a built-in target audience, so why are we not seeing more literature in this category? Arguably, it could be related to our strong stigma around older generations, stemming from fears of our own mortality. While we embrace the young and the new we expect people past a certain age to hide quietly away, not drawing too much attention to themselves. But the Boomer generation is certainly not going to let their voice go unheard.
Why Should Authors Care?
The Boomer generation still has a large influence and they love to read. They are looking for characters that reflect their own interests and hoping someone will fill that need. In fact Goodreads has a group dedicated to finding and sharing novels about this ‘Second Adulthood’. Feel free to check it out here.
Additionally, just as older generations can appreciate and learn from literature that caters towards a younger audience, so can younger readers enjoy and learn from stories catering to an older audience. Boomer literature celebrates the rebellious spirit and the idea that you can be fun and sexy no matter what your age. Baby Boomers are clamoring for new books they can relate to and if authors don’t respond they are definitely missing out on a lucrative and captive audience.
