Quick Picks for Reluctant Readers

Reluctant reader. Two words that concerned parents will occasionally present me with. For whatever reason, little Johnny or little Susan just does not like to read. Is something wrong with them? Several years back, a friend of mine (fellow librarian, at that) found herself in this exact plight. Her daughter, early elementary age at the time, gravitated in the opposite direction of books. “How can this be? I work in a library, after all!” uttered my exasperated and confused associate. It wasn’t until another year had passed before a ‘switch was flipped’, as it were. Instead of shunning the notion of reading, the child became voracious for the written word. So what had changed?


Sometimes it comes down to locating a genre, author, setting, character, specific story, that completely resonates for an individual. This one discovery can be a domino that sets off a wave of interest, a “where’ve you been my whole life” feeling. Part of my passion is to provide a helpful nudge to those searching for their elusive literary white whale. The misfortunes of Captain Ahab aside, I truly believe that our collection at BPL offers something for everyone. Let’s take that journey together!

My capabilities aside, our good friends at YALSA (Young Adult Library Services Association) generously provide their sage expertise to assist the reluctant reader. For over two decades, committees have convened to weigh in on recommendations for young bookworms in training. Labeled as ‘Quick Picks’, their choices for referral are derived from a host of criteria. Included, but not limited, in this evaluation: sufficient plot to sustain attentiveness, emotional appeal for teenagers, high interest "hook" in first 10 pages, clear writing that easily communicates, enticing artwork, and demonstrated diversity.

Here are several Quick Picks for 2017:

Tell Me Three Things by Julie Buxbaum

Sixteen-year old Jessie, still grieving over her mother's death, must move from Chicago to "The Valley," with a new stepfamily but no new friends. That is, until an anonymous fellow student emails and offers to help her navigate the school's treacherous social waters.

Exit, Pursued by a Bear by E.K. Johnston

At cheerleading camp, Hermione is drugged and raped, but she is not sure whether it was one of her teammates or a boy on another team.

Plutona by Jeff Lemire

Five kids discover the body of the world's greatest super hero, Plutona, in the woods after school one day. This discovery sends them on a dark journey that will threaten to tear apart their friendship and their lives.

This Is Where It Ends by Marieke Nijkamp

Minutes after the principal of Opportunity High School in Alabama finishes her speech welcoming the student body to a new semester, they discover that the auditorium doors will not open and someone starts shooting. Four teens, each with a personal reason to fear the shooter, tell the tale from separate perspectives.

All American Boys by Jason Reynolds

Accused of shoplifting and resisting arrest, Rashad is beaten by a police officer. Racial tension runs high as friends take sides and a community is divided.

If I Was Your Girl by Meredith Russo

Amanda is facing a lot of challenges, but nothing is as big as starting over after being relentlessly bullied for her transgender identity.

The Geeks Guide to Unrequited Love by Sarvenaz Tash

Graham has realized he is in love with his best friend and partner in comic book creation, Roxy. What better place to declare his feelings than New York Comic Con?

This readers advisory brought to you by YA Librarian, Chris.