“Books for the Beast” is a biennial conference devoted to showcasing and discussing the best in Young Adult Literature. This activity was established in 1991 by Dr. Mary K. Chelton and a statewide steering committee, as a way to pay tribute to Margaret Alexander Edwards and the impact she had on the development of young adult reader’s advisory. The "Books for the Beast" Conference gets its name from the highly regarded book about serving teens in libraries written by Margaret Alexander Edwards, The Fair Garden and the Swarm of Beasts.
In 1993, Deborah Taylor assumed the position as chair of the planning committee. Each conference features an outstanding young adult writer who brings his or her unique perspective on this growing field of literature. In the past, the attendees have heard from writers such as Ron Koertge, Gordon Korman, Rita Williams-Garcia, Ann Rinaldi, Caroline Cooney, Chris Crutcher, David Lubar, Patricia Wrede, and Gail Giles. Discussion groups that focus on primary young adult genres gives participants the opportunity to get involved with the literature. Afternoon panels have featured teens and librarians as well as creators of graphic novels.
In 1993, the conference began its popular practice of inviting up to fifty teen readers to participate, free of charge, as a way of including their important insights on what has been written about and for young people.
