The New York Times is introducing a new website designed for teenagers to air, share, and pair their literary works.  Figment.com will allow teens to write all forms of literary composition.  They will be able to read each other's work and partner up to create new works with peers they have never met.  Publishers will be able to use this site to gauge teen interests and talent for future writers.  

The underlying hope is that teens will use this new, modern forum to practice, hone, and improve their writing skills.  I think it is also an attempt to bring literature into the technology based world in which teenagers live.  Just because texting, emailing, and blogging are the latest rage, doesn't mean that well-written, well-thought out compositions need be lost on this generation.

I think the concept behind this new website is great: encourage teens to be writers, readers, and contributors in a teen-like way.  Hopefully the trend will catch on, not be abused, and give kids a forum for their craft.  English teachers can see the possibilities for incorporating the concept into their classes just as publishers can see the benefit to their industry.  It looks like a win/win situation.