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The best way to get kids to read a book is to say: 'This…

“The best way to get kids to read a book is to say: 'This book is not appropriate for your age, and it has all sorts of horrible things in it like sex and death and some really big and complicated ideas, and you're better off not touching it until you're all grown up. I'm going to put it on this…” quote by Philip Pullman
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“The best way to get kids to read a book is to say: 'This book is not appropriate for your age, and it has all sorts of horrible things in it like sex and death and some really big and complicated ideas, and you're better off not touching it until you're all grown up. I'm going to put it on this shelf and leave the room for a while. Don't open it.”

Philip Pullman

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Encouraging reading by making a book seem forbidden can spark curiosity, but may also backfire.

In simple terms: Forbidden books can intrigue.

Key Takeaway

Use intrigue wisely to motivate reading.

Themes

curiosity reading authority

Mood

playful cautious

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • childhood literacy
  • parental guidance
  • book clubs
  • library programs

Key Concepts

education psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • Will this tactic increase or decrease interest?
  • How to balance intrigue and honesty?
A Different Perspective

Kids may resist if they feel manipulated.

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