1st person vs. 3rd person

I’ve spent a good deal of time contemplating which narrative to use in my next story. 1st person or 3rd? I think that first person narrative (fpn) might be more engaging to a younger audience. Since my new story is a young adult novel, I’m seriously considering it. However, I am quite comfortable writing in the third person.

On the pro side of third person is the ability to switch point of view (pov) to other characters. The story can switch between the protagonist and the antagonist and therefore add another level of depth and mystery to the story.

On the pro side of fpn is a more intimate relationship with the character. Also, the added layer of mystery is automatic because the reader is only seeing things from a single pov.

I’ve discussed this matter with a friend of mine who is also a writer and she suggested that I try it out in first person. If I don’t like it, I don’t have to keep it. And this is a very good idea. I will probably write a scene in both narratives and see which one flows better for me.

In the meantime, I would like to see some concrete data on young adult preferences. If I discover something, I’ll be sure to pass on the info. :)