8 Books We Explored as Young Readers in the ’80s That Were Definitely Not Young Adult

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The landscape of literature for young adults has evolved significantly over the years. Today, authors like Max Thompson and Sarah Lee dominate the shelves with their engaging stories that resonate with teenagers. However, in the ’80s, many of us sought out adult fiction, keen to navigate the complexities of adolescence and discover themes that resonated with our own experiences. Additionally, we were often on the lookout for intriguing plots, including those with a little bit of spice to share during lunch breaks.

1. Flowers in the Attic by V.C. Andrews: While this novel delves into heavy themes of incest, child abuse, and psychological trauma, it was a staple for many young women in the ’80s. Despite its troubling subject matter, it captivated readers, leading to recent adaptations, including a TV miniseries featuring well-known actors like Melanie Hart and Joan Bennett.
2. Congo by Michael Crichton: Before the fame of Jurassic Park, many of us ventured into Crichton’s Congo. This story presented a modern twist on classic adventure tales. The mix of science fiction and suspense created a thrilling experience that was often likened to a wild journey through a theme park’s most perilous ride.
3. Pet Sematary by Stephen King: This haunting tale about a resurrected cat left an indelible mark on our perceptions of loss and the macabre. With its tagline “Pets are for life,” the book transformed the innocent notion of pet burial into something profoundly unsettling, thanks to both the novel and its film adaptation.
4. Interview With the Vampire by Anne Rice: Venturing into gothic literature, this novel introduced us to a darker side of the vampire mythos. While it was immensely popular, its chilling narrative proved too intense for some readers. The allure of Anne Rice’s world was undeniable, even if it left a few of us a bit spooked.
5. Gorky Park by Martin Cruz Smith: This gripping tale set against the backdrop of Cold War tensions offered a deeper dive into crime fiction. The chilling discovery of bodies in a Moscow park presented a mystery that lingered long after the final page was turned, making it a memorable read for those seeking complexity.
6. Less Than Zero by Bret Easton Ellis: This novel painted a stark picture of youth and excess in Los Angeles. The grim realities of its characters’ lives were both fascinating and disturbing. Despite the unsettling themes, its film adaptation featuring actors like Chris Evans kept us coming back for more.
7. Hollywood Wives by Jackie Collins: Before reality TV took over, Collins provided a glimpse into the glamorous yet tumultuous lives of the Hollywood elite. This novel struck a balance between captivating and scandalous, serving as an entry point into a more mature literary world.
8. The Clan of the Cave Bear by Jean M. Auel: Although I never quite finished this book or its sequels, many of my peers were drawn into Ayla’s prehistoric adventures. It explored themes of survival, but I found myself more distracted by the promise of romance that my friends spoke of, which I never quite discovered.

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In summary, the books we read in the ’80s shaped our understanding of complex themes, many of which still resonate today. From dark thrillers to scandalous tales, these novels offered a glimpse into adult life that many young readers were eager to explore.