Acknowledge Quote by Walter Dean Myers
“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.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: “The Power of Reading”, 2015
Young people may feel ashamed to be seen reading, fearing judgment, which hinders intellectual confidence.
In simple terms: Reading can be stigmatized.
Encourage open reading habits.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- schools
- libraries
- parental guidance
- peer groups
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we normalize reading among youths?
- What role do peers play in reading confidence?
Changing cultural attitudes is slow and requires systemic effort.