Joining the Book Blogger Hop!

This is my first time joining in on the Book Blogger Hop hosted by Crazy for Books.  The question this week (1/14 - 1/17) is:

"Why do you read the genre that you do? 

What draws you to it?

My favorite genre to read is contemporary YA fiction.  I especially love writers who use prose (i.e. Ellen Hopkins, love her!!!).  I think the reason I am most drawn to this type of book is because I grew up in a small town, with limited knowledge of what kind of "bad stuff" is out there.  It always amazes me when I read about how bad some teens have it, and their ability to overcome the hardships their are exposed to. 

I have also started to love some science/dystopian fiction like Michael Grant's Gone Series and Emma Clayton's book The Roar (super excited about its sequel, The Whisper).  I like comparing that world to the world we live in.  I especially like using books like this for book discussion groups. 

Whats your favorite?