Publishers Weekly July 28, 2025 by Patricia J. Murphy

Mark Twain once said, “A man who does not read has no advantage over those who cannot read.” His words ring especially true today with the growing number of young readers who prefer screens over books. We spoke with three teachers and librarians who are committed to helping these so-called reluctant readers turn the page to find books that will change their reading lives.

Sarah Armstrong learned early on from her grandparents that books were the key to everything good in life. Now, as a K–5 reading specialist at Overlook Elementary in Poughkeepsie, N.Y., and a former middle school teacher, she is helping kids unlock a lifelong love of learning. “No kid is born with an aversion to reading,” Armstrong said, “but I think as reading becomes harder for kids, some shy away from it. It could be embarrassing and/or frustrating for them.”

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