Although Almond's book, Skellig, has death hovering in the wings, it is the angels rather than the devil who win the day. Perhaps it simply helps to focus the mind, especially the minds of journalists, when children's books are talking openly about sex, violence and drugs, but it is also true that books dealing with these subjects tend to have more meat on their bones. Chamber's book, for example, explores themes of homosexuality, euthanasia, war, adultery and lust, but alongside love, art, friendship, and self discovery. No one writes an article about those latter themes, but they are just as much a part of the book, and precisely what make it such a rounded, and meaty read. Naturally awards, particularly the more literary ones, are going to look with interest at books that take on so much, and carry it off so successfully.
Teenage fiction is an area that has developed out of recognition in recent years.
I can't recall any books written specifically for me when I was that age. Now the range of books increases every year - another reason why so many good writers are attracted to the age group. It is one area where you can still set the pace. For a writer, it's like opening a door in a house and finding it full of unwrapped presents. Books occupy a very curious position as far as teenagers are concerned.