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Addressing Boys’ Needs in Literature: A Dialogue at the Bologna Book Fair

During the promotional tour for Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls, Francesca Cavallo found herself frequently confronted with the question, “What about the boys?” Initially, she reacted with irritation, reflecting on the historical prevalence of male-centric narratives. However, her perspective shifted as she recognized the desire among parents to nurture a more progressive conception of masculinity in their sons, differing from their own experiences.

At the Bologna Book Fair’s panel “Where the Boys Are: The Right Books Can Make Them Heroes,” Cavallo, alongside fellow panelists, delved into the challenges facing boys and young men, referencing alarming statistics related to mental health, educational performance, and social issues. They emphasized the crucial role that publishers and literature can play in reversing these trends.

The session was moderated by Porter Anderson, editor in chief of Publishing Perspectives, who was inspired to organize the discussion after noticing the lack of books featuring male protagonists on the longlist for the prestigious Carnegie Medal. He highlighted the long-standing stereotype in both education and publishing that boys are disinterested in reading, calling for a reassessment of this overly simplified view.

Maria Russo, editor and co-author of How to Raise a Reader, presented findings suggesting that boys may face unique biological differences in their approach to reading. Observing that boys often learn visually, she noted that the traditional U.S. educational model—which progresses from picture books to text—can disadvantage boys early on. This can lead to feelings of failure and subsequent behavioral issues. Russo advocates for the lasting inclusion of picture and graphic novels in boys’ reading lives as a means to foster engagement and success in literacy.

Beyond formats, cultural assumptions also impede boys’ reading habits. Michiel Kolman, senior VP at Elsevier, noted the gender disparity within the publishing industry, which is predominantly female. He asserted that engaging boys through literature is essential for fostering a balanced society that benefits everyone. Anderson echoed this sentiment, advocating for a more inclusive workforce in publishing.

In a discussion about gender representation in STEM fields, panelist Jonathan Simcosky shared insights from his work on She Can STEM: 50 Trailblazing Women in Science from Ancient History to Today. He pointed to the significant impact of STEM initiatives in encouraging female participation, but also welcomed discussions about how similar strategies could be employed to inspire boys, particularly in traditionally female-oriented professions. He highlighted the importance of representation in books like Yes, Boys Can!—He Can H.E.A.L.: Inspiring Stories of Men Who Changed the World, which offers diverse role models, encouraging boys to explore various societal contributions beyond traditional male archetypes.

Cavallo emphasized the need for stories that present boys in a broader, more nuanced light, challenging traditional narratives that often limit them to stereotypes of power and aggression. Through her own research into fairy tales, she found that male characters are often underdeveloped, serving primarily as secondary figures to female protagonists. This reinforces harmful behavioral patterns in young boys, who are often taught to define their worth through external achievements and dominance. Her creation of Stellar Stories for Boys of the Future aims to provide alternative narratives that escape these confines.

Addressing the essence of masculinity, Cavallo argued for narratives that promote compassion and community over the traditional constructs of masculinity that often lead to isolation. This shift, she believes, is not just for the benefit of boys but for the entire society. Reframing masculinity into a space filled with honor and care invites a collective journey toward liberation for all genders.

As the discussion concluded, Simcosky highlighted the urgency for publishers to acknowledge the struggles boys face and cater to their needs with relevant literature. Ignoring this demographic, he warned, could create gaps that alternative influences may improperly fill.

Kolman remained optimistic, emphasizing the transformative potential of literature in enriching boys’ lives and addressing the challenges they face. “As publishers, we are catalysts for change,” he declared, affirming the vital role they play in shaping narratives that resonate with young readers.

Source
www.publishersweekly.com