I have written a 150 page story about a 14yr old girl in 1969 it is in diary form and is actually titled Fourteen in Sixty Nine. My problem is what age group would I aim it at? Kids today wouldn't understand half of the terminology or identify with music, fashion etc but the older end would. But because it's about a 14yr old would it be right to aim it at maybe 50 plus age group who would have more understanding? Not sure what to do.
I agree with the comments and also recommend Daphne's suggestion. I have a small group of 12-16 year olds who are assisting with views on a novel for young adults. It does help to have the views of the target audience but your work seems to be a natural classic cross-over and the readership would be wider as a result.
Jean
Thank you for your replies I will post some of the story and be very grateful for any feedback because this has been my biggest problem since beginning it. I will definitely take on board all your advice about the wonderful classics you have used as examples.
I'd be happy to read and comment on this story if you post it. I've tried writing about teenagers in the 60s, because I was there, but I haven't tried getting any of it published.
As usual, I would guess that the success of the story will depend on the strength of your characterisation and plotting.