With today’s teenagers hooked on electronic devices and gaming consoles, convincing them to opt for a book instead is not without its challenges. Of course, there are those that are avid book worms as well, which is heartening, but how to convert the reluctant reader? Perhaps a good place to begin is to pay attention to their interests.
I leaned this the hard way. For years I would buy my eldest whatever the current popular books were for Christmas, only to have them gather dust on the bookshelf. He’s always made it abundantly clear that he is a passionate fisherman; so, one year I bought him a fishing manual. Well… riveted, enthralled, captivated, do not aptly describe his reaction and immersion. We could have had an alien spacecraft land in the backyard – nothing was going to get his nose out of that book! Lesson learnt.
Keep in mind that reading doesn’t have to be limited to physical books or traditional novels. There are a variety of platforms and material available that will appeal to almost every taste and predilection. It’s a matter of listening to what draws and entices their curiosity, then doing your research.
My point in question then, how to encourage your own teen to read? One suggestion I’ve heard is to look at themes they can relate to – whether this be drama, action, love, relationships, diversity and inclusion, adventure or achievements. If they have a particular interest or penchant, then there’s your guiding light.
Here’s a few other ideas that may help –
Books that Inspired their Favourite Movies
The choices here are endless, but to name a few examples – the Divergent series, The Hunger Games, The Fault in Our Stars, My Sister’s Keeper, The Maze Runner collection, the Percy Jackson books and of course Harry Potter. If you’re looking for books that were made into movies this year, have a look at Bookbub.com. They also have a section of 30 of the Best Young Adult Books of 2018. Though lists like this can be subjective, they’re a good place to start.
E-Books and On-Line Reading
I’m the first to admit that I have had trouble adjusting to the electronic age; but digital form books are a huge market. Just because I love the feel and smell of a paper-form book and being able to turn the page, for teens who were raised with electronic devices, the digital alternative could be a viable option. I’ve come to terms with this with my own YAs. Though they will pick up a traditional book, one is hopelessly addicted to on-line Manga, and the other loves to read stories on Wattpad, which until 12 months ago I didn’t even know existed. But… they read.
Audio Books
Audio books are a fabulous way of introducing teens who have displayed minimal interest in reading, to the world of books. Some argue that audio doesn’t bring the same imaginative and emotional gratification that reading does, but others disagree.
I know a number of people who enjoy listening to audio books, and do so while exercising or travelling. If you think your teen might feel self-conscious or embarrassed, tell them that with a set of earphones in, people would assume they were listening to music. Otherwise, they can listen in the privacy of their own room, or in the family car where you could enjoy it with them.
For teens who struggle at school with English and comprehension, this may impede on their desire to read, which breaks my heart. Audio books could be their saviour, helping them to expand their vocabulary and improve their comprehension skills. As with most things, people will have positive and negative views about this, but it comes down to personal preference and what resonates with the individual.
Give them the Freedom to Choose
Take them to the teen/YA section of the local library or bookstore and release the reins. Let them scour the shelves and select what they want, and avoid the urge to influence or criticize. Whatever they gravitate towards, be it teenage romances, thrillers, horror, fantasy, or even nonfiction books; support their choices.
The best way to encourage them is to lead by example. Of the many fond memories I have of my own father, one was his love of reading. Let them see you enjoying a good book; ask about what they’re reading and encourage discussions.
I’m certainly not advocating against electronic devices or entertainment, I use them too! But there is a powerful enchantment in being drawn into the realm of your own imagination that only reading can incite.
