For tweenie readers who might be more inclined to combat boots than Uggs, Scholastic has introduced a new range of middle grade chicklit. We've seen the sparkly Candy Apple books. Now readers can sink their teeth into the Poison Apple books! I have to admit, my heart sang when I saw this in a recent publisher's catalog. I don't object to books like the Candy Apple books; they are popular for a reason. Their coloful covers, the ubiquitous subjects of boys and popularity and summer fun--and don't forget the glitter. What's not to love? They fly off our shelves. However......
Publishers feed girls a diet of princesses and pink from the moment they can reach for a book from their pushchairs. Maybe the Poison Apple series is just a cynical ploy to steer girls towards "alternative" books while still coralling them within the brand; Goosebumps meets the Beacon Street Girls. I don't know--I've yet to read one. Judging from the first title, this looks to be a series headed for horror. I suppose vampires are inevitable. But even if the Poison Apple books are just a waiting room for readers not yet ready for Lois Duncan or Caroline Cooney, I'm holding out the hope that it evolves into something slightly subversive and totally without glitter.
