Here's why:
* Young Adult Focus: Her books, like "The Outsiders" and "Rumble Fish," primarily focus on teenage characters and their experiences, struggles, and coming-of-age themes. This aligns with the defining characteristics of YA literature.
* Realism: Hinton's writing style is known for its gritty realism. She portrays the challenges and complexities of youth in a relatable and authentic way, often tackling tough issues like social class, gang violence, and family dynamics.
* Social Commentary: While not explicitly categorized as "Social Realism," Hinton's works often function as a critique of social issues, particularly those impacting young people. This further connects her to the tradition of realism in literature.
While Hinton doesn't neatly fit into a specific literary time period, her work draws heavily from the late 20th-century YA and Realistic fiction movements. She contributed significantly to the development of YA literature as a distinct genre and paved the way for subsequent authors exploring similar themes and issues.