Pre-teen Forms “Books N Bros” to Highlight Representation
What should you do if you adore reading but find that the characters and authors don’t reflect your own identity? You could a) settle for books that don’t resonate with you or b) create your own reading list—after all, why not take control? Eleven-year-old Jordan Smith decided on the latter, founding a vibrant book club for kids because he understands that representation is crucial.
Hailing from St. Louis, Jordan established a reading group named Books N Bros, aimed at celebrating African American literature and enhancing literacy among his peers. “Every time I visit my school library, I notice a lack of African American literature,” Jordan shared during an interview with the local radio show “St. Louis on the Air.” His passion ignited after a visit to EyeSeeMe, a bookstore in University City, Missouri, that champions African American children’s literature. His mother, Karen Smith, filmed a Facebook Live video that showcased a fascinated Jordan, engrossed in a book while sitting on the floor.
“He had never encountered a bookstore like that before, and neither had I,” Karen recounted. “Seeing him so at ease and engaged was heartwarming. It was a shock for him to relate positively to someone on a book cover, as opposed to the negative urban narratives that often dominate.” The video quickly gained traction online, amassing over 63,000 views and 1,700 shares. Recognizing they had struck a chord, the duo brainstormed their next steps, and the idea of a book club emerged.
This initiative is not only innovative but also addresses a pressing issue noted across the United States. According to The New York Times, boys are lagging in reading proficiency, with a report from the Center on Education Policy indicating that 79% of girls in elementary school are deemed “proficient” in reading, compared to only 72% of boys.
So, what’s contributing to this disparity? While various theories exist, one resonates deeply with anyone who has ever picked up a book: readers enjoy identifying with characters similar to themselves. While readers may appreciate stories set in distant cultures or periods, relatable characters are often the key to engagement. Without representation, interest in reading can wane, leading to a decline in literacy—something that Books N Bros aims to combat.
“My motivation is simple: I love to read, and it would be amazing to share that love with others. I want to keep this going because reading is something that brings me joy,” Jordan expressed. The book club caters to boys aged eight to eleven, meeting weekly to discuss a book chosen by the members the previous month. Currently, Books N Bros has around seven to ten members, and both Jordan and his mother note that the group continues to grow.
Among their reading selections are titles like “Danny Dollar Millionaire Extraordinaire: The Lemonade Escapade” by Ty Allan Jackson, which tells the tale of a young boy with entrepreneurial aspirations—a fitting choice for a boy who initiated a book club. The author even joined a meeting via Skype after seeing the viral video. Other favorites include “Hidden Figures” and “Supah Dupah Kid.” For Black History Month, the group read “A Song for Harlem: Scraps of Time” by Patricia McKissack, a beloved author from St. Louis.
Membership costs $20, and each member receives a worksheet accompanying the book along with a snack. However, the true value they gain from this book club transcends monetary worth. They acquire literature, culture, and much-needed representation. In the spheres of pop culture, entertainment, and literature, representation is vital. Sometimes, you have to see it to appreciate it, relate to it, and believe in it for yourself.
What we observe is a bright future ahead for these young readers.
For more information, check out this insightful article on Cervical Insemination that discusses topics related to family building. And if you’re considering options for at-home insemination, reputable retailers like Make A Mom offer comprehensive kits. For an excellent resource on pregnancy and home insemination, visit WebMD.
In summary, Jordan Smith’s initiative to launch Books N Bros not only champions African American literature but also plays a crucial role in fostering literacy among boys. Through engaging discussions and relatable content, this book club is making waves in the community and inspiring a new generation of readers.