Why should teens read nonfiction? We hear a lot about how reading fiction promotes empathy (which is, of course, important). But equally valuable are the critical thinking and comprehension skills that nonfiction cultivates—skills that everyone needs to possess in order to participate in community life in an informed and responsible way.
Between homework and extracurriculars—not to mention socializing, gaming, and smartphones—teens have less uninterrupted time than ever before. How do you get an overscheduled teen to read nonfiction that isn’t assigned by a teacher? Two things help: Offer them a book on an intriguing, attention-grabbing topic and make sure it’s one that they can dip into and read in small chunks.
The following books cover a wide range of subjects, but they share a combination of accessible language, visually appealing design, and formatting that works equally well for reading cover to cover or browsing as time permits.
Climate change is an overwhelming and terrifying topic, but Rune Kier Nielsen—a Danish speechwriter, anthropologist, and global climate expert—helps readers learn how to effectively channel their concerns in Speaking on Climate: A Guide to Speechwriting for a Better Future (Zest Books, April 15). This handbook for persuading others to join you in taking action is concise, practical, and thorough, while teaching broadly applicable skills.
In Ban This!: How One School Fought Two Book Bans and Won (and How You Can Too) by Christina Ellis, Renee Ellis, Edha Gupta, Ben Hodge, Patricia A. Jackson, and Olivia Pituch (Zest Books, September 16), readers learn the inspirational story of one successful community effort to stop censorship. The authors—teachers and former students from the Pennsylvania school district in question—share their template for organizing young activists in a slim, well-structured, and compelling package.
Creating an inviting, globally focused, centuries-spanning work is a remarkable feat, and Black History for Every Day of the Year, written by David Olusoga, Yinka Olusoga, and Kemi Olusoga, with illustrations by Kemi Olusoga (The Experiment, September 30), introduces readers to a rich array of individuals, events, movements, and cultural phenomena. Anyone who picks it up will learn something new, and the interplay among subjects supports readers in making deep, nuanced connections.
Fascinating Fungi: Nourishers, Killers, Connectors, and Healers by Karen Latchana Kenney (Twenty-First Century/Lerner, October 7) is an original, multidisciplinary work featuring dramatic color photos that will pique the curiosity of a broad readership. From therapeutic uses of psilocybin for mental health to training your dog to hunt truffles, experiments with plastic-eating mushrooms, and the poisoning of the Roman emperor Claudius, this work contains a plethora of fascinating tidbits.
An anthology honoring the 10th anniversary of Shout Mouse Press compiles works by teen workshop participants, helpful writing prompts, excerpts of works by YA authors, and reflective conversations on craft. Bright Before Us, Like a Flame: Igniting a New Generation of Writers, edited by Sasa Aakil and Kathy Crutcher (October 8), offers teens—whether they aspire to write professionally or just want to better express themselves for their own satisfaction—a supportive, celebratory guide.
Laura Simeon is a young readers’ editor.
