Activists of YA discussion

If we are writing about a race, ideology, identity etc. that's different from our own, we need to either be 100% accurate or we don't write about it at all. If we do go on to write about it without understanding, then we're spreading misinformation, creating sterotypes, and hurting/insulting the people we're trying to write about.

One example was Arthur Golden, who wrote the book Memoirs of a Geisha. While the book sold millions of copies, it also made several inaccuracies about the Japanese geisha Golden tried writing about. And because of its popularity, those inaccuracies were spread and several stereotypes were created. If you want to read more about it, check out this interview with the woman Golden based the book off of:
https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv...

I think it depends on the books contents. If the book deals with topics such as racism or being lgbtq+ then the author should either make sure everything is accurate by researching and talking to those who have been through those experiences. If it's a book that doesn't involve real life issues then it doesn't really matter who is writing it.

Raynah wrote: "I think it depends on the books contents. If the book deals with topics such as racism or being lgbtq+ then the author should either make sure everything is accurate by researching and talking to t..."
Exactly!

I don't think it matters as long as the author represents the characters accurately and does not give incorrect information or use stereotypes.

I think that it is okay for authors to write outside of their own experiences. However, they should be doing actual research. And, if they use bias, stereotypes, etc. in their writing, then it becomes not okay.

In my book, I am writing out of my own experiences, but I have done my research, I have asked questions, I have read books on some related topics. I want my readers to feel represented. And I am getting beta readers with similar backgrounds to help make sure it sounds real, that I’m not implying stereotypes, etc. Though, one thing I would love if there are any people of color out there who could potentially PM me, talking about their thoughts on racism, as it’s a topic lightly covered in my book. Thanks!

ຖ໐ຖi wrote: "If we are writing about a race, ideology, identity etc. that's different from our own, we need to either be 100% accurate or we don't write about it at all. If we do go on to write about it without..."
Yeah, his treatment of that woman is disgusting.

The original book "Stolen Identity" was written in a man's POV. I am a woman. I have a lot of guy friends and know how they act with and around women, so I was able to use that knowledge in the writing of the book. Since changing pen names, I decided to clean up that book and make it for anyone and things were changed beyond that. It was still written in the POV of the man, same with the second book in it's collection. The third will be in the woman's POV. Murder Through Time also has a man's POV as well as a woman's.

I like having the option of changing POVs from man and woman. My mind is open enough that I am able to do this because I watch people. And I've spoken to enough to know how some people think

Amber

I think you have to be doing it for the right reason with the right intent. Why do you want to write a story with a BIPOC mc? Through an LGBTQ+ lens? If you’re trying to capitalize on the push for better representation, then you’re part of the problem. But if you’re researching and writing it accurately and listening to the community and your goal is to spread awareness and help the community, and you’re promoting the voices of those who actually are the underrepresented group in question, then I think it’s okay.

To that end, if there are any people reading this who identify as Roma, Romani, Sinti, or a Traveler, I’d love to have a chat!