How To Get Your Teen To Read

With school back in session for most area teens, the challenge of getting
kids to read and write seems to flow back to teachers and school
administrators. But don’t be fooled. As good as your student’s teacher is,
he or she may not be able to entice your teen to read. That’s an effort that
needs to be approached from all fronts—particularly in the home.

And remember – getting a child to read is often as easy as finding the right
book. Harry Potter turned an entire generation of TV-watching, Nintendo-
playing kids into rabid readers because the book was as entertaining as any
other form of media…in fact, more so. Kids (and adults) just needed to
discover its magic, and they were off. According to author Brandon Mull,
“A good book can play on the screen in your mind,” eclipsing modern
technology.

Author Obert Skye relates a story when he was young where his school
librarian tried desperately to get him to read. She’d meet him in the halls:
“Here’s a good book to read.” She’d meet him in the cafeteria: “I’ve got a
great book for you.” She’d even send messages home to his parents: “I
know he’d love this book, if he’d just give it a try.” Finally, he admits, he
gave in. The book? Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl. He
was hooked, all by the power of a great book. He’s now an avid reader and
writer.

Here is a list you may want to try with your own child. They’re sure to
delight.

Fablehaven and The Beyonders by Brandon Mull

Leven Thumps by Obert Skye

Janitors by Tyler Whitesides

Michael Vey by Richard Paul Evans

Matched by Ally Condie