Struggling with Including (Or Not Including) Pop Culture References in your Teen Novel?

This Twitter thread from author Emery Lee was really eloquent, explaining

“I feel like writing YA for teens isn't just about giving teens what they want (though that is part of it) but also giving them what they might need.
It's taking life lessons you may not have realized at 15 and filtering them through issues and culture relevant to teens now.” —Emery Lee

The whole thread is well-worth reading, as it digs into the use of pop culture references - the dangers and opportunities, and how, ultimately,

“Good YA isn't dependent on the author's age, music taste, or app usage. The emotional resonance means more. *that's* my point.”—Emery Lee

Illustrate and Write On,
Lee