Meaning: This quote by Paula Danziger, a renowned author of children's and young adult literature, touches on the sensitive subjects of sexuality and school shootings. Paula Danziger was known for her ability to address serious topics in a relatable and accessible manner for her young readers. In this quote, she reflects on her writing choices and the topics she chooses to address in her books.

In the first part of the quote, Danziger mentions that none of her characters seem to have had sex yet and that she hasn't written about that. This reflects her deliberate decision to approach the topic of sexuality in a cautious and responsible manner when writing for her target audience of young readers. Danziger was known for her realistic and relatable portrayal of the experiences of adolescents, and her decision to address or not address certain topics in her books reflects her understanding of the developmental stage and sensitivities of her readers.

Danziger's choice not to delve into the topic of sex in her books aligns with the principles of age-appropriate content and sensitivity to the concerns of parents and educators. By focusing on the everyday challenges and emotions that young people face, she was able to create characters and stories that resonated with her readers while maintaining a level of appropriateness for her target audience.

In the second part of the quote, Danziger mentions her reluctance to deal with what's happening in Oregon - the school shootings. This statement reveals her awareness of the real-world issues and tragedies that can deeply impact young people. School shootings, unfortunately, have become a distressing and recurring occurrence in many communities, and Danziger's apprehension about addressing this topic in her writing reflects her sensitivity to the emotional and psychological impact it could have on her readers.

It's important to recognize Danziger's thoughtful approach to the content of her books and her consideration of the potential effects on her young audience. By choosing not to directly address certain mature and distressing topics, she demonstrated her commitment to creating a safe and supportive literary environment for her readers.

Paula Danziger's quote provides insight into her thoughtful and deliberate approach to writing for young readers. Her consideration of the themes and experiences she presents in her books reflects her dedication to crafting stories that resonate with her audience while respecting their emotional and developmental needs. As a result, her work continues to be cherished by readers and valued by parents, educators, and literary professionals for its sensitivity and relatability.