Tuesday, February 14, 2012

Reading for non-readers

Some people are born with a love of books.  I am one of those people.

Some people learn to love reading, usually after they've finished school and are no longer being tested on reading comprehension.  But when in a person's life that happens varies widely by individual.

So, how do you get a reluctant reader interested in reading?

What do they like?  Do they love a particular kind of movie or television series?  Do they have a specific hobby?  There are so many different kinds of fiction out there, with protagonists ranging from quilters to sea-captains, chefs to lawyers.  A Law & Order fan might enjoy novels by John Grisham or Tim Green.  A foodie might enjoy mysteries by Joanne Fluke or a novel like Eat Cake by Jeanne Ray; a wine enthusiast might like The Villa by Nora Roberts or A Good Year by Peter Mayle.  A fan of stand-up comedy might enjoy the Stephanie Plum series (One for the Money, etc.) by Janet Evanovich or a novel by Christopher Moore.

And who says fiction is the only kind of book to read for entertainment?  Rock stars, television and movie actors, and politicians all have memoirs or biographies available on the shelves.  Someone more interested in interior design may prefer to peruse magazines, and superhero movie enthusiasts may prefer graphic novels.  And don't forget about audiobooks--if you're enjoying the story, I still count it as reading!

Lastly, if at first you don't succeed, try and try again.  It may take several different authors or subjects or series to find one that someone likes.  Don't give up!  There is a book out there for everyone--I promise.

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