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I think it's difficult for young people to acknowledge…

“I think it's difficult for young people to acknowledge being smart, to knowledge being a reader. I see kids who are embarrassed to read books. They're embarrassed to have people see them doing it.” quote by Walter Dean Myers
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“I think it's difficult for young people to acknowledge being smart, to knowledge being a reader. I see kids who are embarrassed to read books. They're embarrassed to have people see them doing it.”

Walter Dean Myers

About This Quote

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

Young people may feel ashamed to be seen reading, fearing judgment, which hinders intellectual confidence.

In simple terms: Reading can be stigmatized.

Key Takeaway

Encourage open reading habits.

Themes

education self‑esteem stigma

Mood

empathetic optimistic

Type

practical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • schools
  • libraries
  • parental guidance
  • peer groups

Key Concepts

sociology psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we normalize reading among youths?
  • What role do peers play in reading confidence?
A Different Perspective

Changing cultural attitudes is slow and requires systemic effort.

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