Children's literacy crisis: why book-shaming won't help
The national advocate for children's books criticizes most of them as 'crud,' but argues that literary quality is not the reason for declining reading rates among children. The article examines the disconnect between adult judgments of book quality and children's actual reading habits, suggesting that shaming kids for their reading choices is counterproductive. Instead, it emphasizes the importance of fostering a love of reading by allowing children to choose books that interest them, regardless of perceived literary merit. The piece calls for a focus on access and engagement rather than on enforcing standards of taste.
Key facts
- The nation's official advocate for children's books says most are 'crud.'
- Matters of literary quality don't explain why kids aren't reading.
- Book-shaming is counterproductive to improving children's literacy.
- Children should be allowed to choose books that interest them.
- Access and engagement are more important than enforcing taste standards.
Entities
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