| I recently read an article in The Atlantic Magazine titled “The Elite College Students Who Can’t Read Books” by Rose Horowitch (Nov. 2024). Based on multiple interviews with college professors, classroom teachers, and students, Ms. Horowitch pointed out that students at every grade level are reading fewer books than previously. Several professors lamented that since so many high school and middle school teachers now assign excerpts, poetry, and articles instead of whole books, students are overwhelmed with reading whole books in college.
The reasons for this phenomenon are many. People overall are reading more social media and fewer books. Students are required to take many standardized tests, which measure reading comprehension and other skills through short passages. Media offers more movies, television series, and YouTube videos than ever before. Over the years, people have altered how they spend their leisure time.
I believe it is still advantageous to read whole books, especially fiction. Reading fiction and routing for a character teaches empathy and appreciation of different cultures and walks of life. If you choose the right book, reading it can transport you to another world, providing ultimate relaxation. Reading for pleasure automatically improves fluency, writing skills, critical thinking, and self-reflection, in addition to preparing students for college.
For students, December provides an extra 2 weeks of free time. Every family member can benefit from reading a book of choice. If you choose the right book, it won’t be a chore!
Four Young Adult Books that are National Book Award Winners
Kareem Between by Shifa Saltagi Safadi
Seventh grade starts rough for Kareem. His best friend moved, he botched his football tryout, and now he’s stuck showing the new kid around. But when a second chance at the team comes with a catch, Kareem must find his own strength and tackle the challenges between friendship, family, and doing what’s right. Kirkus Reviews calls it “a masterfully written, deeply resonant tale.”
Buffalo Dreamer by Violet Duncan
Summer’s usual carefree summer on her family’s Alberta reservation takes a haunting turn when she dreams of fleeing a residential school, echoing her grandfather’s painful past. As unmarked graves are uncovered and survivors speak out, she joins a rally to honor her heritage and find healing and hope for the future. In a starred review, Kirkus Reviews calls it “compelling yet heartbreaking — and essential reading for all young people.”
The Great Cool Ranch Dorito in the Sky by Josh Galarza
Brett copes with his adoptive mother’s cancer and his own insecurities through his comic book world, but his escape is shattered when his private journal is posted online. Forced to confront his body image struggles and eating disorder, Brett leans on new friendships and begins an honest journey toward self-acceptance.
The First State Being by Erin Entrada Kelly
In August 1999, 12-year-old Michael’s ordinary life in Delaware shifts when he meets Ridge, a bold teenage time traveler. When he discovers that Ridge has a book detailing the next two decades, Michael becomes obsessed with learning his future. But as curiosity turns to desperation, Michael must decide how far he’s willing to go… Kirkus Reviews calls it“a warmhearted blend of nostalgia and futurism.”
[Book Source: Bookbub]
See the 2024 National Book Award winners for adult books as well.
Happy Reading!
By Cheryl Gedzelman, President |
