Serving Boys Through Readers Advisory à la Readers Advisory

Readers' advisory services are an essential part of librarianship. They help librarians connect readers with books that they will enjoy, and they can be a powerful tool for promoting literacy and reading engagement. However, traditional readers' advisory approaches often do not resonate with boys. Boys are often reluctant readers, and they may not be interested in the same types of books that girls are. As a result, librarians need to tailor their readers' advisory services to meet the needs of boys.

Serving Boys Through Readers' Advisory (ALA Readers' Advisory)

by Michael Sullivan

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	722 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	163 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Understanding the Needs of Boy Readers

In order to provide effective readers' advisory to boys, it is important to understand their needs. Boys are often drawn to books that are action-packed, adventurous, and humorous. They also tend to prefer books with male protagonists. Additionally, boys may be more interested in graphic novels and nonfiction books than in traditional fiction books.

It is also important to consider the different reading levels of boys. Some boys may be struggling readers, while others may be advanced readers. Librarians need to be able to provide readers' advisory services that are appropriate for all levels of readers.

Providing Effective Readers' Advisory to Boys

There are a number of strategies that librarians can use to provide effective readers' advisory to boys. These strategies include:

• Using booktalks to introduce boys to new books. Booktalks are a great way to get boys excited about reading. When giving a booktalk, be sure to focus on the elements of the book that are likely to appeal to boys, such as the action, adventure, or humor.
• Creating book displays that are tailored to the interests of boys. Book displays can be a great way to attract boys to the library and to introduce them to new books. When creating book displays, be sure to include books that are popular with boys, as well as books that are new and exciting.
• Offering reading programs and activities that are designed for boys. Reading programs and activities can be a great way to get boys interested in reading and to help them develop their reading skills. Some examples of reading programs and activities that are popular with boys include book clubs, author visits, and gaming tournaments.
• Partnering with other organizations that serve boys. Partnering with other organizations that serve boys can be a great way to reach more boys and to provide them with access to books and reading resources. Some examples of organizations that librarians can partner with include schools, after-school programs, and community centers.

Readers' advisory services can be a powerful tool for promoting literacy and reading engagement among boys. By understanding the needs of boy readers and using effective readers' advisory strategies, librarians can help boys find books that they will enjoy and that will help them become lifelong readers.

Additional Resources

• ALA's Top Ten Books for Teen Readers
• Boys Read
• 10 Tips for Encouraging Boys to Read

Serving Boys Through Readers' Advisory (ALA Readers' Advisory)

by Michael Sullivan

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	722 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	163 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE