The Untold Story: A Study on the Leisure-Reading Motivation, Habits, and Text Choices of Middle-School-Aged African American Males

• In Event: Roundtable Session 75
  In Roundtable Session: Research in Reading and Literacy SIG Roundtable 1: Reading and Writing

Abstract

This qualitative study investigated the leisure-reading motivations, habits, and textual choices of nine middle-school-aged African American males at one suburban middle school. The factors explored in this study that contributed to their leisure-reading decisions may inform the pedagogical practices of educators as they seek to advance literacy among diverse populations. The study found a strong connection between leisure reading choices and a desire to address personal goals, issues, and the identities of the participants. Based on the findings, the researcher made several suggestions for educators, parents, media specialists, and other stakeholders to enhance the leisure reading motivation of this population . This study has implications for teacher education programs, curricula design, school practices, and school policies.

Author

• Suzanne Bowers Smith, University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill