Declared by Christian Retailing to be one of the “most successful publishers in the young adult genre” through its TH1NK imprint, NavPress begins 2011 with new books for the growing young adult market. And these books deal with the hard-hitting subject matter this audience wants.

“TH1NK has laid a solid foundation over the last several years, and consumers have come to recognize and expect thought-provoking resources from us for this audience. Offering honest, relevant resources is essential for our growth and success,” says NavPress Editorial Director Rebekah Guzman.

Addressing difficult topics in the context of a well-told story isn’t new for NavPress. TH1NK launched in 2003 with best-selling author Melody Carlson’s "TrueColors" series for teen girls, which tackled issues such as eating disorders, self-injury, suicide, and sexuality.

TH1NK continues to talk about the real problems teens face. In 2010 NavPress released Forgotten, the first book in Carlson’s "Secrets" novels. This series, too, honestly confronts harsh realities, in this case homelessness. Shattered (April 2011), the second book in the series, deals with deep feelings of hurt and regret.

“Teens don’t want to be told what to do. They want to figure it out on their own. The Christian YA audience is highly influenced by peers, media, and culture. We win their hearts by taking them—their faith, their friends, their lives—seriously,” says Guzman.

TH1NK isn’t just about great fiction. The Grad’s Guide to Surviving Stressful Times (March 2011) is a graduation gift book for students heading off to college that offers inspiration and advice for dealing with stress in a positive way.

Releasing May 2011, An Expose on Teen Sex and Dating by Andy Braner is a resource aimed at parents and youth leaders on what’s really going on with teens and sex and how to talk about it with them. Interviews, statistics, and action steps will help equip readers to start this important conversation with the young adults in their lives.

Guzman believes TH1NK will continue to grow and have an impact on the YA audience. “The rewards of reaching teens and young adults are endless. Knowing they got the message of the book and seeing that life transformation is priceless.”