Neurodivergent Young Adult Fiction- Writing Dialogue

Dialogue is the heartbeat of young adult (YA) literature. It’s where characters come alive, relationships spark, and emotions leap off the page. For autistic writers, crafting conversations can feel like navigating a maze of unwritten rules—subtext, slang, and shifting social dynamics. But here’s the secret: your unique perspective is a "superpower". Let’s explore how to harness it. The Challenges (and Why They’re Not Barriers) YA readers crave authenticity. They’ll spot forced dialogue instantly. As an autistic writer, you might worry about: - Subtext: What’s not said can feel elusive. - Slang: Trends change faster than a TikTok feed. - Group Dynamics: Overlapping banter, sarcasm, or unspoken hierarchies. But these challenges aren’t roadblocks—they’re puzzles to solve creatively. Your Strengths: Lean Into Them 1. Attention to Detail: You notice patterns others miss. Use this to craft distinct voices. Does your protagonist ramble when nervous? Do side characters have verbal tics? Nuance makes dialogue memorable. 2. Honesty Over Pretense: Autistic writers often prioritize clarity. YA readers adore genuine emotion. A blunt confession or awkward silence can resonate deeply. 3. Fresh Perspectives: You might approach conversations differently—embrace that! Quirky metaphors or hyperliteral honesty can make characters stand out (think Juno or Christopher Boone from *The Curious Incident). Practical Tips for Crafting YA Dialogue 1. Eavesdrop (Ethically): Listen to teens in cafes, parks, or online forums. Note rhythm, humor, and how they deflect emotions. Pro tip: Follow BookTok or YA-focused podcasts for slang in context. 2. Subtext Through Action: If subtext feels abstract, show emotions via body language. Instead of “I’m fine,” maybe: She twisted her hoodie strings. “Whatever. It’s not a big deal.” 3. Literalness as a Style: Not every conversation needs hidden meanings. A character who says exactly what they think can be refreshingly relatable. 4. Beta Readers & Sensitivity Feedback Share drafts with teen readers or autistic sensitivity readers. Ask: Does this sound real? Where does it jar? 5. Write the Vibe, Not the Rules: Focus on the emotional truth of the scene. Do the words convey jealousy, excitement, or loneliness? Trust that connection over “correctness.” Celebrate Your Voice YA literature thrives on diverse voices. Your neurodivergent lens can create dialogue that’s raw, unexpected, and deeply human. Remember: - Awkwardness is Okay: Teens are figuring themselves out. Imperfect conversations are realistic. - Your Quirks Are Assets: A character’s unique speech pattern could become their trademark. So, grab your notebook (or stim toy) and dive in. The world needs stories only you can tell—one authentic line of dialogue at a time. What’s your favorite YA dialogue moment?