Great minds through the ages have centered on the importance for young minds of reading good books. Here’s a brief sampling: “A foundation of knowledge must be laid by reading.” Samuel Johnson “The habit of reading established early in life cannot fail to develop young people into intelligent, useful citizens.” William Thayer “There is more treasure in books than in all the pirates’ loot on Treasure Island.” Walt Disney Books young people read will affect their mental acuity and their…..
How does one encourage young minds to enjoy literature? Students will study something they think is important like math and science. But with the possible exception of Shakespeare, many young people don’t see the point of, and do not enjoy, reading classic literature. In the immortal words of Flannery O’Connor, “If the student finds that this [good literature] is not to his taste? Well, that is regrettable. Most regrettable. His taste is not being consulted; it is being formed” (Flannery…..
We live in a post-literate world. Many people don’t read for pleasure due largely to electronic distractions. Many young people adopt the habits of their parents and only read books assigned for school or college courses. Although some teenagers enjoy reading good books, the vast majority of them do not. Bookstore employees and librarians tell me the same story. They look at me strangely. “Well, no. They don’t read that any more.” Most teens look for two…..