To Cuss or Not to Cuss

Current Trends in YA Fiction

By August Isley 2025

• The use of "fuck" does appear in some YA novels, especially those aiming for realism or dealing with mature themes. Notable examples include works by authors like John Green, Angie Thomas, and Adam Silvera.
• However, its inclusion can lead to a book being challenged, banned, or given a higher age recommendation. Some publishers may ask authors to limit or remove the word to ensure broader marketability, especially for school and library sales.
• Many YA books use milder expletives ("crap," "damn," "shit," etc.) more freely, while "fuck" is often used sparingly, if at all, and usually for significant emotional impact.

Summary Table:

| Word      | Common in YA? | Risk of Censorship | Notes                               

| ------    | :--------------:  | :----------------:  | ------------------------------ |

| "fuck"    |      Rare                    |        High                      | May limit audience or sales         

| "shit"     |   Occasional           |      Moderate              | More accepted, but still challenged 

| "damn" |     Common            |         Low                      | Widely accepted                     

| "crap"    |     Common            |         Low                      | Widely accepted                     

Key Points:

• "Fuck" is not universally accepted in YA fiction, but it is not unheard of.
• Its use should be intentional and meaningful, not gratuitous.
• Authors and publishers must weigh authenticity against potential backlash or censorship.

Top 10 Mild Cusswords That May Still Offend:

1. Crap
2. Damn
3. Hell
4. Ass
5. Bastard
6. Bitch
7. Piss
8. Shit (often considered stronger, but increasingly common in casual speech)
9. Dick
10. Screw (as in “screw you”)

Notes:

• Words like “crap,” “damn,” and “hell” are frequently used in PG-rated media and everyday speech, but some people (especially in formal, religious, or intergenerational settings) may still find them offensive.
• Words like “bitch,” “ass,” and “dick” are more likely to be considered vulgar or inappropriate, but are often heard in pop culture, music, and informal conversation.
• The offensiveness of these words varies greatly by region, age group, and context.

All such words listed above are considered verbal violence and are not tolerated in ANY books published by ShelteringTree. Earth, LLC. Special exceptions will require written and face-to-face discussions and explanations between the author and the publisher.