Nonfiction

Sullivan (2002) and Jones, Hartman and Taylor (2006) illustrate the importance of nonfiction for tweens. Unfortunately reviewing bodies such as School Library Journal, Voice of Youth Advocates, Booklist, and Publishers Weekly prioritize fiction, rarely reviewing nonfictional books. Reviewers of nonfiction mostly emphasize superficial aspects, turning a blind eye to the aesthetic qualities of the genre. Sullivan notes that many professionals are under the impression that tweens only refer to nonfiction for help with school assignments. Moreover, some reviewers, librarians, and teachers equate the reading of nonfiction as “not ‘real reading’” (p. 65). These findings couldn’t be further from the truth! Many reluctant readers prefer nonfiction books. Sullivan (2003, 2009) argues that simply including engaging nonfiction books in library collections and advertising them to boys may be enough to spark boys’ desire to read. To become inspired by books, boys need male role models and books that connect them to their fathers.

While we cannot instantly change the fictional emphasis at work in professional journals that review tween literature, we do have the power to alter how nonfiction is perceived in our libraries. When choosing tween nonfiction titles, library selectors should choose some books that supplement school curriculum and others that satisfy outside interests. Selectors need to be certain to choose high quality books, instead of books that feature "didactic and dull writing, unimaginative layout and design of text and illustrations, and repetitive use of stock photographs that do little to complement the text" (Sullivan, 2002, p.67). Booktalking nonfictional titles and advertising them in high-rent spaces within the library may attract the attention of young patrons who would otherwise choose fiction. Another idea is to include nonfiction in tween literature circles or discussion groups.

Sullivan, E. T. (2002). Reaching reluctant young adult readers: A handbook for

librarians and teachers. Lanham, Maryland: Scarecrow Press.

Sullivan, M. (2003) Connecting boys with books: What libraries can

do. Chicago: ALA.

Sullivan, M. (2009). Connecting boys with books 2: Closing the

 reading gap. Chicago: ALA.

Jones, P., Hartman M. L. & P. Taylor. (2006). Connecting with reluctant teen readers:

 Tips, titles, and tools. New York: Neal-Schuman.