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 …