A successful text is one that unsettles the reader. to what extent is this true? Refer to 'After the First Death' by Robert Cormier

Generally, it is believed that in order for an author to write a successful text, they need to effectively engage their audience and maintain their interest throughout by incorporating aspects they know will prove appealing and entertaining. However, the more experienced reader should have developed a different understanding of reasons for why a text may be successful. Texts can be written in order to be received on a deeper level, by placing the reader in …

…it is still effectively engaging as Kate emerges as someone that can be related to, possessing limitations like everyone else. Enjoyment of reading can come from being challenged by the themes or arguments in a text. Robert Cormier deliberately challenges the reader to create interest and entertainment in his novel After the First Death. By being taken out of their comfort zone, the readers are forced to re-evaluate their attitudes and views of western society.