First Advisor

Dr. Kate Partridge

Thesis Committee Member(s)

Dr. Lara Narcisi and Dr. Amy Schreier

Reader

Dr. Scott Dimovitz

College

Regis College

Degree Name

BS

Document Type

Thesis - Open Access

Number of Pages

78 pages

Abstract

The world and wonder of young adult fiction is under-appreciated despite its enormous cultural effects and applications. This genre of literature allows readers the unique opportunity to step into the shoes of another person in another world and experience it as they do. This can improve overall empathy and cognition as readers visualize what fictional characters might be thinking and feeling. Fiction also allows the audience to see characters who are going through struggles that they can relate to and feel empowered when they are able to survive and thrive in situations they may find themselves in. This excerpt of the novel As We Rest depicts a character who recently died and is experiencing the first stages of grief that can be felt in the first 24 hours after a loss. With this excerpt, I aim to show that while stories can depict unrealistic worlds, the emotions that a character feels in response to that world are very real and can be based in reality. This can help readers feel less alone as they struggle with similar obstacles and emotional challenges as fantasy characters.

Date of Award

Spring 2025

Location (Creation)

Denver, Colo.

Rights Statement

All content in this Collection is owned by and subject to the exclusive control of Regis University and the authors of the materials. It is available only for research purposes and may not be used in violation of copyright laws or for unlawful purposes. The materials may not be downloaded in whole or in part without permission of the copyright holder or as otherwise authorized in the “fair use” standards of the U.S. copyright laws and regulations.

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