Connecting with Reluctant Teen Readers: Tips, Titles, and Tools

It may sometimes seem that only a miracle could get some kids to read, but YA experts Patrick Jones, Maureen Hartman, and Patricia Taylor believe in some proven tips, titles, and tools to make magic happen. This unique guide shares their thoughts on why teens need to read and why so many of them don't. They show you how to entice reluctant readers, what types of books are most likely to grab and keep their interest, and how to connect different kinds of readers with different genres (graphic novels, realistic fiction, mystery, fantasy, magazines, nonfictions, short stories, and more) attract different readers. The featured lists highlight over 600 sure-fire books, magazines, and series including: Best new adult fiction for teens, best 25 books for struggling students, best literature for middle school readers, best 40 magazines, best 100 books for boys, best 25 comic books for all ages. You will also find quick and easy guidance for using booktalks (including 50 ready-to-use scripts), reading surveys, and an exhaustive bibliography of resources to consult. This all-encompassing guide may prove even more than the miracle you thought you needed.

Well written and well researched, this practical hands-on guide to defining and wooing reluctant readers is a must-read for librarians and teachers who work with adolescents. It is divided into three parts: "Tips That Work," "Titles That Work," and "Tools That Work." Reluctant readers are identified and interviewed as to why they do not want to read, and techniques are suggested for guiding them through required reading. Books that will engage nonreaders are listed by category, such as science fiction and fantasy, graphic novels, audiobooks, biography, and changing bodies. Among the many helpful lists are "Best Forty Magazines for Reluctant Readers" and "Turnaround Titles-Fifty-Seven Varieties of Great Reading Experiences." And there is a wonderful chapter on booktalking. A 12-question reading survey will enable librarians to ask their students about their reading interests and to provide feedback when planning programs or purchasing new materials.—Kathleen A. Nester, Downingtown High Ninth Grade Center, PA
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It's no secret that many teens don't like to read, but what is less apparent are the reasons why. The authors of this practical guide relied on surveys and interviews with young adults, teachers, and librarians to determine why so many kids can't, won't, or don't read. They've analyzed their findings to create innovative solutions, presented here in three sections: helpful tips, recommended titles (annotated bibliographies sorted by genre and format), and effective tools (booktalk styles and scripts and a sample reader's survey). Several young adult authors have contributed essays or observations. These realistic, field-tested strategies will appeal to classroom teachers and media specialists, and all youth librarians will appreciate the collection-development guidance. Any collection that serves teens should make this a first-priority purchase. Kathleen McBroom
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved