By: Joy Millam Heather Gruenthal Teacher Librarians & YALSA’s Quick Picks for Reluctant Readers Committee

 They are the goths, geeks, preps, jocks, nerds, skaters, and gamers. Kids from every demographic can be RR’s.  How do we define a reluctant reader: RR’s are kids who for whatever reason do not like to read.

 Sometimes they are too busy to read Athletics and extra-curricular activities Demanding course of study (IB/AP coursework) Employment

 Booktalks  Digital book trailers  Purchase appealing books for them  “Read the movie”

 RR’s like books that have these characteristics Appealing covers Attention getting opening Edgy topics

 Ask for donations (registration packet or back to school night, alumni letter)  Recycling collection  Book fairs (physical & virtual)  Amazon wishlist  Selling bookmarks

 RR’s also like Gateway books like PostSecret Very visual Few words These books don’t look like much but they lead to quality books.

 Read all books you share with students  Cover is impactful  Choose popular books ie: Child Called “It”  Take notes as you read Cite passages Note important events

 Buy extra copies  Note popular titles & find similar titles (ie: “It”- Bruises, Basement)  Practice, practice, practice Your comfort is critical Practice passages and summaries  Take your show on the road Make regular appointments

 Take books to the classroom  Prepare several different presentations  Ensures availability  Wear comfy clothes  Leave brochures  Display booktalk books  Add encouraging note

Don’t booktalk a book you disliked Don’t reveal too much Don’t go too long per title 2-5 min per title max. Don’t memorize Don’t talk too fast

 This presentation and these booktrailers are available on our websites: Booktalksandmore.pbwiki.com RIYL.wikispaces.com