Boys and Books: How to Help Boys Love Reading (and What They’ll Actually Read)

Podcast: Making Biblical Family Life Practical
Hosts: Hal & Melanie Young
Network: Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network

Struggling to get your son to read? You’re not alone—and you’re not without options.

In this episode, Hal and Melanie Young tackle a question many homeschool parents are asking:
👉 How do you help boys enjoy reading—and choose books that actually build character?

From practical strategies to specific book recommendations, this conversation explores how to move boys from reluctant readers to engaged learners—without lowering standards or sacrificing values.

Some educators and librarians so are desperate to get boys to read something, anything, that they’ll turn a blind eye to any but the most objectionable material. “Well, at least they’re reading,” they’ll say. Yet deep down, we all know that the junky material we use to get them to read is likely to give them a taste for … more junk. This week, we’ll talk about a few reasons your son may not like to read much now, and give you some real suggestions for solid, wholesome, challenging, and educational books that your son will love.

New Here? Start with These Episodes

• • Rules and Relationship – MBFLP 289
  • Kids and Chores – MBFLP 286
  • Motivating Boys to Write – MBFLP 250
  • Dealing with Conflict with Tweens and Teens
  • Homeschooling with Unsupportive Family – MBFLP 276
  • Discipline Without Breaking Their Spirit – MBFLP 202
  • Teen Boys Who Hate School? Causes & Fixes
  • Raising Siblings Without Rivalry

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• Why what boys read matters just as much as that they read
• The difference between:
  • 🚧 Difficulty with reading
  • 😴 Lack of interest in reading
• How to identify and support struggling readers (including dyslexia and learning gaps)
• Why audiobooks can be a powerful bridge to strong reading skills
• How media (games, TV, streaming) impacts a boy’s desire to read
• The types of books boys are naturally drawn to—and why

 Key Takeaways for Parents

1. Model What You Want to See

Boys are far more likely to value reading when they see it modeled at home—especially by dads.

2. Don’t Settle for “Anything Is Fine”

Reading junk just to get them reading isn’t the goal.

Just like nutrition matters for the body, quality literature matters for the mind and character.

3. Use Audiobooks Strategically

Audiobooks:

• Build comprehension before fluency
• Expose kids to rich vocabulary and storytelling
• Help reluctant readers stay engaged

4. Feed Their Interests

Boys often gravitate toward:

• Action and adventure
• Hero-driven stories
• Mysteries (justice-driven plots)
• Nonfiction (especially hands-on or mechanical topics)

👉 Tip: If your son has a hobby, get books about it.

5. Limit Screens to Increase Reading

High-stimulation activities (video games, streaming) can:

• Reduce attention span
• Lower interest in reading
• Create dependency on constant stimulation

6. Fill Their World with Story

Even if they aren’t reading independently yet:

• Read aloud together
• Listen to audiobooks
• Discuss stories as a family

Recommended Books & Resources

Character-Building Favorites

• Hero Tales from American History (Theodore Roosevelt)
• Pollyanna
• A Cry from Egypt by Hope Auer

Series Boys Love

• Sugar Creek Gang (Paul Hutchins – original versions recommended)
• Landmark History Series

Humor & Classics (Older Readers)

• P.G. Wodehouse (with discretion/editing)
• James Herriot (All Creatures Great and Small)

Nonfiction Ideas

• Military history
• Mechanics and how-to manuals
• Exploration and adventure
• Hands-on skill guides

Supporting Struggling Readers

If your child struggles with reading:

• Address skill gaps early
• Consider targeted programs (like brain integration or phonics-based support)
• Remember: reading ability ≠ intelligence

Sponsor Highlight

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get my son interested in reading?

Start by connecting reading to his interests—action, adventure, or hands-on topics—and reduce screen distractions.

What if my child hates reading?

Determine whether it’s a skill issue or an interest issue. Use audiobooks and engaging topics to bridge the gap.

Are audiobooks as good as reading?

Yes—especially for building comprehension, vocabulary, and a love of story while skills catch up.

What kinds of books do boys typically enjoy?

Boys often prefer:

• Adventure stories
• Mysteries
• Nonfiction (especially mechanical or historical topics)

Final Encouragement

Helping boys love reading isn’t about forcing it—it’s about:

• Guiding wisely
• Choosing well
• And building a home where stories matter

When you do that, reading becomes less of a battle… and more of a doorway.

Some Resources You Might Find Helpful

• “Character-Building Books for Boys” – from our Raising Real Men blog
• Beloved Books – a great source of audiobooks, including The Sugar Creek Gang
  
• Raising Real Men Store – some neat books, both print and audio, your whole family will enjoy!