Common Sense Media rates young adult novels based on various factors like the quality of the writing, the suitability of the content for the target age group, and the presence of positive or negative themes. For example, if a novel has excessive violence or inappropriate language for young adults, it may get a lower rating.
They also consider the educational value. A novel that can teach young adults about different cultures, historical events, or important life lessons may get a higher rating. For instance, a historical fiction young adult novel that accurately portrays a significant period in history and makes it interesting for the readers would be rated well.