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DO YOU WANT to know a secret? People assume I read it only because I have to--but I truly enjoy literature for children and young adults.

True, it's a key part of doing my job well, but when I get to choose a book for pleasure reading, I am more likely to choose a young adult title than an adult one. And why not? Young adult literature is imaginative and well-written, and the characters face challenges that resonate with everyone, regardless of age.

Here are some of the titles I have recently read for pleasure.

Author Franny Billingsley's fantasy novels are a little unusual, and her latest, "Chime," is no exception. Briony has second sight and through her own anger and jealousy has unwittingly used her powers to wound her stepmother and sister. Her stepmother spells it out for her; she's a witch. Briony is lucky, though. Her stepmother loves her so much she promises to protect her from herself, her father and the village folk who would hang her.

Adults will probably notice a pattern, but the young heroine believes every word. When Eldric comes to town, Briony makes a friend whose intelligence matches her own. Slowly, their friendship grows into more, but her secret is a barrier.

The swamps of Great Britain provide a deliciously dark atmosphere. The magical creatures that reside there, helping and encumbering, add creepiness and a touch of horror. Billingsley has outdone herself with this latest book. I was spellbound and finished it with a satisfied sigh.