Authors always have written books that appealed to young adult readers, but it was not until the mid-twentieth century that a group of authors began to target young adults as the audience for their books. Since that time, a group of authors has emerged who write for the young adult reader. While all of this has been taking place, there remain classic novels written for adults that have found a permanent home in the school curriculum and continue to appeal to the interests of young adults. What has evolved is a body of literature written for young adults or appealing to young adults that has true literary merit. Cyclopedia of Young Adult Authors offers young adult readers a way to appreciate the lives and works of this special group of fiction writers. From the basic appreciation of 250 authors' lives and works, the editors have constructed a multifaceted reference book for young adults to use in the library. The addition of informative sidebars provides explanations of concepts, terms, awards, professions, places, and other topics readers encounter in the author essays. Adding 4-color photos, graphics, and other illustration in a colorful page design creates an interactive book that lends itself to class assignments, reference, or browsing.