In a report in 2012 it was found that 53% of nine-year-old children read just about every day for pleasure, and another 23% read once or twice a week . . . not because they have to, but because they want to. That adds up to 78% reading for pleasure! Admittedly, that was three years ago, but I meet so many parents who tell me their children are bookworms that I don’t think the figures can have changed much. 🙂
The amount of reading they choose to do decreases with age, though (the average American reads just 19 minutes a day, but watches three hours of television!). So, if you are a Christian and write books for children and teens, you are doing a necessary job. If children are not reading books that tell of the Jesus’ love for them, what will they be reading? Don’t think of your writing as an indulgence; if your books touch just one or two children with the good news (maybe even your own children, grandchildren, nephews, nieces or Sunday School class) will it be worth it? I think it will. Let’s reach them while they are still reading!
I heard on Saturday that a local 14-year-old girl took her life last week. This terrible tragedy makes me even more determined to do what I can, while I can. Will you join me?
Together in His service,
Janet
P.S. Children are discerning – your story will need to have engaging characters, an exciting plot, and keep their interest from the opening sentence to the closing paragraph. If you feel you could do with encouragement and the odd writing tip, please sign up for emails into your in-box. 🙂