'Teen Voice' Recommends Books, Sharpens Writing Skills

Are you a teenager and want to find a great book to read on the beach or by the pool this summer?

Get in-depth reviews and recommendations from people in your own age group from Teen Voice at mvlteenvoice.com, a new blog set up by Mission Viejo Library.

Youth Librarian Allison Tran brainstormed with several dozen Mission Viejo teens in February and came up with the idea for the site, which launched in April, she said.

"It gives them an opportunity to sharpen their writing skills and build an online brand to look good for colleges," Tran said. "It also gives them an audience for their writing. They've responded really enthusiastically."

If you visit the blog, you can read reviews of youth literature like Carpe Diem or Ender's Game, or read about author visits to the Mission Viejo Library and book discussions by the Newhart Middle School Book Club.

In addition to getting writing and publishing experience, the kids involved in Teen Voice also get community service hours they can log with their schools' various academic achievement programs.

"Along with writing for the Mission Viejo Library Teen Voice, teens are invited to participate in knowledge-boosting workshops on writing and social media, and they have opportunities to attend book signings and interview authors," Tran added in an email.

"Since its launch in April, the blog has gotten over 40 followers, 3,000 views and 100 comments," Tran said. "This project is just beginning to grow, and it’s so exciting to see the community get engaged in what the teens are doing."