Browsing by Subject "mielikirjallisuus"

The aim of this study is to find out what boys like to read and their reasons for reading. There has been a lot of concerns of the fact that the amount of reading among the boys is decreasing and it can affect their ability to read. In this study it was researched what kind of books boys prefer to read and what kinds of reasons they might have for reading fiction. This study is based on Appleyard's (1990) theory of the reader who identifies with the books hero and Felski's (2008) four reasons for reading fiction: recognition, enchantment, knowledge and shock. The starting point for this research is that the literacy of boys in particular has diminished, although the literacy rate of Finnish young people is still internationally the highest in the world. Differences in literacy between girls and boys in Finland are bigger than anywhere else in the world. Freetime reading and especially reading fiction has a great impact on literacy. Literacy is, however, not the only reason why boys should read, reading literature has many other benefits. The research material of this qualitative study consists of the children's literature magazine Vinski's book reviews (N=106). The research material was selected in reviews with a boy's name and age between 8 and 12 years. The data was analyzed using theory-based content analysis. In the light of this study, it can be stated that boys' reading preferences and reasons to read are similar in general terms, but reading is also a very individual activity. Based on my research material, the boys think that in a good book there is excitement, adventure, humor and knowledge. Good plot and interesting subject are also important. The most important reason for reading was enchantment and recognition. Reading is, however, very dependent on the reader and what he wants to read. As a management decision it can be said that there is not just one way to ignite the reading sphere. Every child is different and is excited about reading differently