Word Count:
* Lower end: 40,000 - 50,000 words
* Typical: 50,000 - 65,000 words
* Upper end: 65,000 - 80,000 words
Page count:
* Lower end: 200 - 250 pages
* Typical: 250 - 300 pages
* Upper end: 300 - 400 pages
Factors that can influence length:
* Genre: Fantasy and science fiction often tend to be longer than contemporary YA novels.
* Complexity of plot and characters: Books with intricate plots and multiple characters may be longer.
* Target audience: Books for younger teens might be shorter than those aimed at older teens.
* Publisher preference: Some publishers have specific length guidelines.
Keep in mind:
* These are just general guidelines, and there are many successful YA books that fall outside these ranges.
* Ultimately, the ideal length depends on the story and how effectively it's told.
For reference:
* The Harry Potter series, while considered young adult, is known for its longer books, with some reaching over 100,000 words.
* Many contemporary YA novels, like John Green's "The Fault in Our Stars," fall within the 50,000 - 65,000 word range.
If you're writing a YA novel, it's helpful to consider these guidelines but ultimately focus on creating the best story possible, regardless of length.