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Haven (2007), reviewed many studies that focus on the skills improved via reading for pleasure and they all concluded that ‘storytelling enhanced literacy’ (p. 113). TL’s and teachers don’t need such studies to know this, however, we limit or reduce the time reading for pleasure time is allocated during school.
Gainman (2013), states that simply providing books students enjoy, allowing time to read and reading to students gives students the encouragement to read. Students can then discover the value of literature. We are a literate society and the ability to read and comprehend is an expectation and requirement. Reading for pleasure supports these reasons and offers social, emotional and cultural knowledge as well as pure enjoyment.
I have a student (6 yrs old) who is only allowed to borrow non-fiction. He says it’s because his mum says he needs to ‘learn stuff.’ This ignores the emotional, cultural and pleasurable side of reading as well the ability to comprehend and enjoy a story. As a consequence, he devours fiction at school and keeps the borrowed non-fiction for home.
readingagency. (2013, October 22). Neil Gaiman Reading Agency lecture 2013 [Video]. YouTube. https://youtu.be/yNIUWv9_ZH0
Haven, K. F. (2007). Story proof: The science behind the startling power of story. ABC-CLIO, LLC. https://ebookcentral.proquest.com/lib/csuau/reader.action?docID=329134
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