Reading that YA essay I don't think he thinks if adults read YA books they are pedophile. He is just saying that the public could view them as this. While I think that is a little extreme, I do know a lot of adults who would sadly refuse to read anything that is targeted to teens and kids. I actually sort of agree with the author's sentiment that I am not sure what the point of the target demographic is. I think it is great to write books with young adult/teenage protagonist but I think calling them young adult books actually alienates both adults and teens. Adults are afraid to be reading something labeled "young adult" while teens the actual target audience would rather read "adult" books.

On a side note as a fan of Steam Punk that was an interesting read. :)