Exploring the Role of White Male Protagonists in YA Literature

Is there even room for white male protagonists in young adult (YA) literature? This is a question that has been raised by aspiring authors, particularly those interested in writing a YA novel with a straight white male protagonist. In this article, we will delve into the current landscape of diversity in YA literature, address the concerns of the publishing industry, and provide valuable insights for aspiring authors.

Current Landscape of Diversity in YA Literature

For a recent diversity audit of a major UK children’s publisher’s fiction frontlist, we looked at the break-down of male and female protagonists. It was found that male and female protagonists run at roughly 50/50, as one would expect. LGBTQ and protagonists from ethnic minorities were found to be slightly above the levels one would expect from straight demographic representation, reflecting a decade-long effort by publishers to diversify their lists.

Despite this progress, there are still common misconceptions. Some believe that publishers will not consider anything unless it is ‘diverse’ somehow, which is an unfair and exaggerated generalization. Publishers are undoubtedly more attuned to opportunities to publish underrepresented voices, but this does not mean they are excluding other genres or types of stories.

Perceptions of Diversity in Publishing

The perception of diversity in publishing varies greatly depending on who you ask. Publishers, acquisitions librarians, cultural critics, and woke policy spokespeople may not necessarily be supportive of white male protagonists, but this does not reflect the opinions of young readers, whether male or female.

The key advice to aspiring authors is to write the book you want to write. Focus on crafting a compelling story, and let the audience find it. A good story will always find an audience, regardless of the protagonist's background.

Addressing Concerns About Representation

It is important for authors to consider the overall representation in their stories, not just the protagonist. While it is not necessary for every character in the story to be diverse, it is crucial to be mindful of the characters you are creating. If your protagonist is a straight white man, consider diversifying your side characters to provide a more balanced and authentic portrayal of the world in which your story is set.

No one is going to tell you that you can't write a story with a straight white male protagonist. However, it is important to recognize that white men are overrepresented in literature as a whole, and underrepresented voices are valuable and essential. Write what appeals to you, but remember to be inclusive and considerate of the broader narrative.

Conclusion

Writing a young adult novel with a white male protagonist is not only possible but also a valid choice for any aspiring author. The key is to strike a balance between personal storytelling and diverse representation. By focusing on creating a well-rounded and engaging story, you can attract a wide audience and contribute positively to the literary landscape.