In today’s world of endless social media feeds, streaming services, and constant notifications, it’s easy for teenagers to forget the simple joy of getting lost in a good book. Nurturing a love of reading doesn’t have to be a chore, it can be a delightful journey back to wonder, imagination, and even faith.
If you’re a parent or guardian looking to gently reignite that spark, here are four practical ways to help your child rediscover the magic of reading.
Along for this literary ride are our resident Sydney Catholic Schools experts, Curriculum and Innovation Specialists Jacqueline Simpson and Adam Moore, who offer practical, research-informed insights into how teens engage with stories today.
Start with what they already love
Books don’t have to be classics or New York Times bestsellers to spark interest. If your teen is into Marvel, Minecraft, or The Mandalorian, there’s likely a novel, comic, or companion book to match.
“Reading for pleasure often dips in the teenage years, but that doesn’t necessarily mean teens aren’t reading, perhaps just differently,” explains Adam.
By tapping into pop culture, parents can help turn “I don’t like reading” into “Wait, there’s a book about that?”
📚 Recommended reads:
- Star Wars: Ahsoka by E.K. Johnston – Fills in the story between the Clone Wars and Rebels with strong themes of courage, identity, and justice.
- Minecraft: The Island by Max Brooks – A survival adventure written in a fun, accessible style that mirrors the game’s challenges.
- Halo: The Fall of Reach by Eric Nylund – A deeper dive into the lore of the game, great for sci-fi fans who might not pick up traditional novels.
Let them choose their books
Young people are far more likely to pick up a book when it feels like their choice.
“Reluctant readers often become engaged readers when they’re given the freedom to choose books that reflect their interests or personal experiences,” says Jacqueline.
“What resonates with one student might fall flat for another, because reading is deeply personal. Some students want to escape into imagined worlds, while others are drawn to biographies or real-life stories.”
📚 Recommended reads:
- The Book Thief by Markus Zusak – A powerful story about words, resistance, and compassion, set in WWII Germany.
- Percy Jackson and the Olympians by Rick Riordan – Fast-paced and funny, this series blends mythology with modern life and is great for reluctant readers.
- The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart – A clever, puzzle-filled adventure with themes of teamwork, integrity, and moral choices.
Connect books with movies (and faith)
Watching a film adaptation can spark your teen’s interest in the book, and the fun challenge of deciding who did it better often leads to great conversations about story and values. It’s also a natural way to introduce faith-based themes through familiar stories.
“The key is recognising that there’s no single type of book that ‘works’ for all teenagers so we should encourage exploration and give young people access to a variety of texts and genres,” says Adam.
📚 Recommended reads (and watches):
- Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson – A moving story of friendship, loss, and the power of imagination.
- A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle – Weaves science, faith, and courage into an epic adventure.
- The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis – A classic series rich in allegory and Christian symbolism that resonates with Catholic teachings.
Explore Audiobooks and other formats
Reading doesn’t always have to mean turning pages. Audiobooks are a fantastic alternative for teens who find traditional reading difficult or who simply enjoy listening on the go.
“Audiobooks can enrich the reading experience by modelling rhythm, tone, and phrasing, elements that bring a story to life,” says Jacqueline.
“For some students, listening first can build comprehension and make it easier to approach the written text with greater fluency and enjoyment. Audiobooks provide an inclusive way for all students to participate in discussions about books and literature, especially those who might otherwise feel left behind.”
🎧 Listening suggestions:
- Artemis Fowl by Eoin Colfer – Action-packed and humorous, with a great narration.
- Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery – A charming classic, beautifully brought to life in audio form.
- Shadow and Light: A Journey into Advent by Tsh Oxenreider – A reflective seasonal listen for older teens and parents.
Final Word
There’s no such thing as the perfect book, just the right story at the right moment. Think less about finding the ultimate page-turner, and more about building a personal library, one discovery at a time.
Adam encourages parents to support this exploration: “Give teenagers access to a wide range of texts and encourage them to explore different genres, forms, and topics at their own pace.”
Reading isn’t just a school skill, it’s a doorway to empathy, creativity, and connection. And with a little support, your teen might just fall in love with stories all over again.
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