Guys Read

In 2001, Jon Scieszka launched Guys Read, a web-based literacy program. The mission of Guys Read is to "motivate boys to read by connecting them with materials they will want to read, in ways they like to read."

Why is this necessary? Boys are behind girls in terms of literacy and reading scores. They are less likely to be caught reading for pleasure, which impacts their academic achievement. Boys have consistently had lower reading scores than girls for the past 30 years boys. Boys are 2/3 of the special education population in high school. Their enrollment in college now lower than girls, as well.

John Scieszka aims to change the way guys relate to reading. The lack of motivation to read could be coming from a number of factors: many books don’t appeal to boys, many fiction books explore emotions and feelings that boys may feel uncomfortable with because society teaches boys to suppress feelings, there aren’t many male role models for literacy. As a result, boys tend to think of reading as a feminine activity.

These issues are being tackled at Guys Read in a very kid and guy friendly manner. At the website, www.guysread.com, you’ll find a multitude of ways to connect boys with reading. There are lists of books suggested for elementary, middle school and high school guys.

Often kids will find a book they like and get really excited. However, then they won’t know what to read next. Guys read can help them out! There is also a neat book search option. A reader types in his or her favorite book, author, and book subject into a box. Then a list of other books with similarities appear. This is such a great feature.

There is a list of male authors, illustrators, and comic strips that have websites. This is a great way for boys find out more about the authors they like or expose boys to new authors. They aren’t all authors of literature. For example, Dave Barry is on the list. This is also part of what the mission is about. Expanding what ‘reading’ includes: websites count, comic strips count, humor count. It doesn’t matter what someone starts reading, just read and have fun doing it. And now there is an anthology called Guys Write for Guys Read. In this collection, male authors talk about what they like to read and how they became writers.

Anyone can start a Guys Read section on any bookshelf. There is Guys Read paraphernalia including: posters, bookmarks, and sticker that can be downloaded for free. Personally, I would love to see those stickers and posters outside of libraries, bookstores, and schools. Why not put the posters up in the laundry mat, on the subway and in the café?!
And boy am I glad that Guys Read isn’t a secret club for boys only! It’s been a great help in expanding my reading list.