Ten Reasons Why Not

There are a lot of writers - both published and unpublished - who want to write novels for teens, better known as "YA" novels. Having worked with several such writers, I've noticed that in many cases their motivations are often not exactly, shall we say, useful. Or realistic.

Herewith, the Ten Worst Reasons to Write a YA Novel:

1. For fame

2. For fortune

3. To tell teens how they should act

4. To tell teens what it was like when you were a kid

5. To gain the respect and admiration of your peers

6. To gain the respect and admiration of your children

7. Because you think it will be easier than writing an adult novel

8. Because you think it doesn't have to be as good as an adult novel

9. To relive your teenage years

10. To revise your teenage years

The best reasons? I'll leave that up to you.