Serving Boys through Readers' Advisory

July 1, 2010
This volume was created to give a general direction when helping most boys select books. The author does give an overview in the first two chapters of why boys read what they do, which can be found in his earlier volumes, "Connecting Boys with Books"(2003 & 2009, both ALA). But, if you think you didn't need advice on how to do a readers' advisory interview for a boy, think again. Sullivan challenges us to throw out our preconceived notions about how to conduct such an interview. Methods of performing indirect readers' advisory with parents and teachers are included. The excellent booktalks for elementary, middle school, and high school boys alone make this a worthwhile purchase. The author also includes titles to suggest in place of a book a boy did not like or would not read, and a list that will be helpful for those caught in a rut. For example, if you're asked for sports, and your first thought is Matt Christopher, try Mike Lupica. Divided by age group, there are equally great suggestions in each category.—"Renee McGrath, Nassau Library System, Uniondale, NY"

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