Their goal is to share the joy of reading with at least a million adults and teens who don’t read, or only read lightly. A list of 30 books is provided from which the approved distributors can choose.

If this sounds like something you’re interested in, consider signing up to be a book giver. Be aware that the application must be completed and submitted by February 1st.

I’ve looked over the list of very diverse books; many I agree with, some I question. All are great books, but if you are attempting to create a reader or encourage someone to read more, there are a few books that could be too intimidating or inappropriate.

I have to say though, the process was thorough:

In the final selection . . . we’re looking for a good mix of fiction, non-fiction, and YA; literary and commercial. Gender and ethnic balances. Even a geographic distribution of where the authors live.

What I offer here is merely my opinion, as a reader and a book peddler.

I would like to thank the site, ReadingGroupGuides.com for having an amazing list of guides. I’ve linked to them whenever possible.

• The Absolutely True Diary of a Part Time Indian by Sherman Alexie
  This National Book Award winner is for a teen or older reader. Be aware it’s a book that’s been challenged quite a bit in schools, and in fact was recently banned in Arizona. The novel is told from the viewpoint of a Native American teen and deals with some tough topics, yet there is enough humor to keep it from being too heavy.
• Wintergirls by Laurie Halse Anderson
  A young adult novel that covers a serious topic: eating disorders. I would recommend this to someone who wants to read a book written by an excellent storyteller.
• I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou
  The first in a series of six autobiographical books, this introduction to Maya Angelou’s life has also been challenged due to its content, and has actually been banned in some schools. However, it is a powerful testimony to how a love of books and reading can help overcome hardships and trauma. (Reading group guide for I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings)
• Friday Night Lights by H.G. Bissinger
  Chosen, I suspect, to attract male readers, this book will suit both men and women. This nonfiction story follows the Permian High School Panthers football team. A film and popular TV series came out of the book, and Sports Illustrated named it the fourth greatest book ever written about sports. (Reading group guide for Friday Night Lights)
• Kindred by Octavia Butler
  A dark fantasy, Kindred tells the story of an African American woman who inexplicably travels back in time to the antebellum South. There are flaws that might irk serious Science Fiction/Fantasy readers, but as an introduction to the genre, this is a good read. (Reading group guide for Kindred)
• Ender’s Game by Orson Scott Card
  Another Science Fiction novel that can introduce readers to the genre. There is violence, but it is part of the story and the character. This is also a book that is most likely included to appeal to a teen male.
• Little Bee by Chris Cleave
  Originally titled “The Other Hand”, this novel is intended to bring to light, and humanize, the plight of asylum seekers.  My concern is that I’m not so sure this a book that is suitable for its intended recipient, a reader who may not have the developed skills to enjoy literature of this caliber. That and there are some scenes inside that may be disturbing. (Reading group guide for Little Bee)
• The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
  Probably included due to its popularity and the movie, this is a young adult novel many adults would like too. Set in a dystopian future, young people must compete for their districts . . . to the death. Bear in mind it really is geared toward those with a reading level of grade seven and up and think carefully if the youngster you are giving it to can handle the premise. (Reading group guide for Hunger Games)
• Blood Work by Michael Connelly
  Michael Connelly is well known for his Mickey Haller and Harry Bosch novels. (Think Lincoln Lawyer and Brass Verdict). Blood Work is the novel that introduced me to Michael Connelly, and what an introduction. From the very first page, the writing and suspense will keep you turning pages. This is a definite recommendation for anyone looking for a great page-turning thriller. 
• The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao by Junot Diaz
  Although a Pulitzer Prize winner, I question its inclusion. Unless of course we are speaking of demographics again as this is the only book that you can apply for in another language (Spanish). Some of its detractors cite the amount of slang and Spanish phrases that are not translated. Don’t get me wrong, this book is a book that should be read, however, for a light or non-reader? Not so much. At least not until they develop their skills in understanding and interpreting complex themes and literary allusions.
• Because of Winn Dixie by Kate DiCamillo
  A children’s book, it can be enjoyed by every age. Ten-year-old Opal and her dog Winn-Dixie will capture hearts and quickly become a family favorite. I can think of a few children’s books I’d recommend, and this one is near the top of the list. Great choice!
• Zeitoun by Dave Eggers
  There are several non-fiction books on the list, this being one of the most powerful.  I’m not sure how many “light” readers are fans of non-fiction, but this book may change their mind.
• Peace Like a River by Leif Enger
  Winnter of the ALA Alex Award (Best adult novel for teens), the Independent Publisher Book Award, and the Book Sense book of the Year (selected by the Independent Booksellers of America). My one caveat about this particular story is it is one that carries obvious religious themes throughout. There should be no issue with recommending this to any reader, regardless of religious beliefs. (Reading group guide for Peace Like A River)
• A Reliable Wife by Robert Goolrick
  This is a novel that will appeal to many readers. The setting and characters work together to create a suspenseful story that delves deep into the darkness of the human soul. Sounds heavy, but it’s not. (Reading group guide for A Reliable Wife)
• Q is for Quarry by Sue Grafton
  The seventeenth book in the Kinsey Millhone series, may be one of the most interesting as it’s based on a real life case. In fact the author helped fund the facial reconstruction process in order to help the police. This is a popular series and will be a wonderful introduction to contemporary detective mysteries.
• The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
  I read this book in college as part of a diversity class. It definitely opened my eyes to a culture I knew little about. It was a powerful story and I highly recommend it. However, due to some graphic content, I recommend caution if the intended reader is sensitive – especially when it comes to violence against children. (Reading group guide for The Kite Runner)
• A Prayer for Owen Meany  by John Irving
  This is a fine literary work whose themes and narrative may be a bit much for the light reader. This is a book I question if intended to help someone read more, or read at all. (Reading group guide for A Prayer for Owen Meany)
• The Stand by Stephen King
  The uncut edition is over 800 pages. As good as it is, I feel this is just too much of a book to entice someone to read unless they are a huge Stephen King fan. And if so, have probably already read this book.
• The Poisonwood Bible by Barbara Kingsolver
  I’d recommend this book as a pick for those who like historical fiction, but also a character driven novel. Kingsolver is an excellent storyteller and this book is one of her best.
  (Reading group guide for The Poisonwood Bible) 
• The History of Love by Nicole Krauss
  I’m on the fence in regards to recommending this book. It’s a good book, but I wonder if it’s the right book for what this night is all about. Here is a review of it in the N.Y. Times. Perhaps it will help you make your decision. (Reading group guide for The History of Love)
• The Namesake by Jhumpa Lahiri
  I discovered this author through the Pulitzer Project. I love her writing, and recommend any of her books. This was another writer who introduced me to a culture I didn’t know much about. I learned that when it comes to the human condition, there is more that is similar between us than different. (Reading group guide for The Namesake)
• The Things They Carried by Tim O’Brien
  A collection of related stores, it is about a platoon of soldiers in Vietnam. The author himself was in the war, and it’s apparent that he used his experiences when writing the stories. Some of them are pretty raw and powerful, bear this in mind before choosing this for a younger or sensitive reader. (Reading group guide for The Things They Carried)
• Bel Canto by Ann Patchett
  Awarded both the Orange Prize for Fiction and PEN/Faulkner Award for Fiction. This book has been a hit and miss with readers. Those who know anything about South American culture are put off a bit by what appears to be a lack of research and cultural understanding. Others love the prose like narrative and find their emotions worked pretty hard by the end of the book. (Reading group guide for Bel Canto)
• My Sister’s Keeper by Jodi Picoult
  There is no doubt that Picoult is a premier storyteller, taking themes straight from the headlines and making them personal to the reader. She gives them a face, a name, and makes you think hard about what you are reading and if you would make the same choices. (Reading group guide for My Sister’s Keeper)
• Housekeeping by Marilynne Robinson
  Another book I feel may be too challenging for those who don’t consider themselves true readers. The best way I can put it, is that this is a great read for an English major. The use of language is beautiful, but it may be too challenging for some readers. Especially those who are easily intimidated by an author’s use of vocabulary.
• The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold
  Even though the premise sounds dark and disturbing, the book hold more promise than it appears. It would be a good pick for adults or older teens. (Reading group guide for The Lovely Bones)
• The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot
  An interesting inclusion. The author handles the science in a easy to follow manner, while tackling the issue of ethics in medical research. The book has won the Wellcome Trust Book Prize, the Heartland Prize, a Salon Book Award, was named a New York Times Notable Books of the Year, and chosen as a Publishers Weekly Top 10 Book of 2010.
• Just Kids by Patti Smith
  I can’t say enough about this memoir by Patti Smith. She is a talented poet, writer, and musician. This is a short book, and would be an excellent choice in introducing a reader to the art of memoir writing.
• The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls
  Another well written memoir that is an top-notch example of non-fiction narrative that reads like a novel. Another I would highly recommend.  (Reading group guide for The Glass Castle)
• The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
  I have yet to hear anything negative from a co-worker or a customer about this book and author. The reader will immediately know they are about to read a unique book when they realize it is narrated by Death. Yes, that Death. (Reading group guide for The Book Thief)

Whew! That is quite a list isn’t it?

As for me, I did apply to be a giver and chose: The Book Thief, A Reliable Wife, and Because of Winn-Dixie. Not necessarily in that order. I have selected these books because of the intended audience. This is about helping others become readers, or more avid readers, not a popularity contest or for me to push my own personal preferences.

Regardless though of why we pick, the point is that we participate any way we can. Even if you don’t apply, or fail to get chosen, consider giving away books that night, even if it’s only a few. Just one book in the right hands can make all the difference. Check out the two charities in my sidebar for examples of how books can change a life, especially a young one.

And if you live in the Reno area, check out Grassroots Books. The majority of used hardcovers go for $2.99, paperbacks for $1.99, and children’s books for only 99 cents. It won’t break your pocketbook to be part of something so important, and infinitely rewarding.

Disclosure: I work for Grassroots Books, but this post is mine, and the opinions shared here are my own, and do not necessarily reflect those of my employer. My blog is my own and I am solely responsible for its content and I am not paid in any way: not from my employer or any other entity to gush about books. It comes naturally.

The graphic to the right is taken from stupidest.com. The caption is, “See how dangerous it can be when you replace an adjective with a verb?”

It’s supposed to be funny, but I see people posting signs like this all the time. I’ve seen it in stores and restaurants. I don’t read newspapers as much as I used to. It’s too maddening.

Why? The increasing amount of people who suffer from functional illiteracy.

What is even more scary are the young adults (and even some older ones) who can hardly put together an effective resume, let alone make it through the interview process coherently and with professionalism.

I never realized how bad it was until I worked at the book store. We’ve hired several times over the last year and the process was an eye opener. And not a positive one.

It is not enough to know how to read and write. To function in our society, we require the ability to be proficient with language.

Comprehension and critical thinking skills are decreasing to the point many job seekers need help to make a resume and then counseling to help them through the interview process because it isn’t enough to look good on paper – you have to back it up in person.

Whether we like it or not, we are judged on how effectively we can communicate. Through proper use of language, we instill confidence in others that we can understand and complete complex tasks, as well as capture and express ideas necessary for success.

Learning the mechanics is not enough. Learning to understand the context of what is read and how it applies to life, both personally and professionally, is as important. And we must start with our children.

Check out this study by RIF (Reading Is Fundamental).

The meta-analysis found that access to print materials:

• Improves children’s reading performance.
  Among the studies reviewed, kindergarten students showed the biggest increase in reading performance.
• Proves instrumental in helping children learn the basics of reading.
  Providing children with reading materials allows them to develop basic reading skills such as letter and word identification, phonemic awareness, and completion of sentences.
• Causes children to read more and for longer lengths of time.
  Giving children print materials leads to more shared reading between parents and children. Children receiving books also read more frequently and for longer periods of time.
• Produces improved attitudes toward reading and learning among children.
  Children with greater access to books and other print materials—through either borrowing books or receiving books to own—express more enjoyment of books, reading, and academics.

Children need as much access to printed material as they can get. Thus, families need to build and maintain a diverse home library. And remember is it not just for show. It should be one of the most visited and active parts of your home.

If there are children in your community who don’t have the means to build such a library, then check out organizations such as RIF and First Book. We all need to help each other, and our children, on the proper path to success.

It saddens me to think of what our society will be like if literacy skills are not improved. All it takes are books, and allowing children to explore their world through print as much as they do through toys.

This weeks Top Ten Tuesday is asking about the top ten books you would give as gifts.

As for me, I am thinking of a greater gift you can offer.

You see, the best part of my job is watching children and young adults find that special book; a treasure they clutch to their chest and/or start reading as soon as they pull it off the shelf.

This is why I encourage the support of any program that helps create and build upon this passion, knowing it will be a part of them all of their lives. Literacy cannot be undervalued – ever.

So instead of listing books to give, I’ll list suggestions of organizations you can support. In that way, much more than ten people will benefit from your gift.

What better way to improve society, than to help kids get their hands on books, and build a love of something that will give immeasurable value to their life.

1. RIF (Reading Is Fundamental) is the largest children’s literacy nonprofit in the United States. They prepare and motivate children to read by delivering free books and literacy resources to those children and families who need them most. RIF provides new, free books for children to choose from and make their own. The seeds of inspiration in these books have motivated children to follow their dreams and achieve their potential.
2. First Book is determined to see that all children, regardless of their economic conditions achieve more in school and in life through access to an ongoing supply of new books. With the help of partners, donors and dedicated volunteers they’ve provided more than 85 million new books to schools and programs serving children in need.
3. Bookwallah is a non-profit organization whose vision is to transform the lives of children who have undergone hardship by sharing the gift of imagination. Their mission is to collect and distribute children’s storybooks, set up libraries, and spread the joy of reading to children of orphanages and children’s homes throughout the world.
4. Scholatic’s Read Everyday. Lead a Better Life  program is a global literacy campaign that underscores the importance of reading to better prepare children who will need strong literacy skills to survive and succeed in the 21st century.
5. Literacy Bridge’s mission is to empower children and adults with tools for knowledge sharing and literacy learning, as an effective means towards advancing education, health, economic development, democracy, and human rights.
6. Festival of Children Foundation was founded in 2002 by Sandy Segerstrom Daniels, a leading business professional and children’s advocate who saw an opportunity to bring charities together to collaborate. They currently serve over 400 member organizations nationwide that support an endless number of causes, from cancer research to arts programs for children.
7. Adolescent Literacy (Adlit.org) is a national multimedia project offering information and resources to the parents and educators of struggling adolescent readers and writers. Their mission is to distill literacy research and share best-practice information to as many people as possible through the power and reach of the Internet.
8. Highlights For Children is committed to the belief that children experience fun and joy when they use their innate creativity, curiosity, thinking ability, and imagination. Their commitment to the motto “Fun with a Purpose” can still be found on every page of Highlights magazine and in an expanding family of products. (I grew up on this magazine and I credit it for fostering my creativity, curiosity, imagination, and critical thinking skills. It is one of the few magazine subscriptions I highly recommend for a home dedicated to helping a child develop creatively.)
9. Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. In 1996, Dolly Parton launched Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, to foster a love of reading among her county’s preschool children and their families by providing them with the gift of a specially selected book each month. By mailing high quality, age-appropriate books directly to their homes, she wanted children to be excited about books and to feel the magic that books can create. Dolly’s Imagination Library became so popular that in the year 2000 she announced that she would make the program available for replication to any community that was willing to partner with her to support it locally. Currently over 1600 local communities provide the Imagination Library to almost 700,000 children each and every month.
10. Children’s Literacy Initiative (CLI) is a non-profit that works with teachers to transform instruction so that children can become powerful readers, writers, and thinkers. Their goal is to close the gap in literacy achievement between disadvantaged children and their more affluent peers. Early reading = lifelong success, so they know there is no stronger lever for improving student outcomes than giving teachers high-impact instructional strategies. They invest in schools by providing training and coaching  to teachers and administrators and quality children’s books to classrooms. They work school by school—pre-kindergarten through third grade—to strengthen instruction and create a culture of literacy. Over the past 10 years, teachers coached by CLI have taught more than one million children. 

I hope one or more of these choices has inspired you. I can’t think of any greater gift than helping those who don’t have the same advantages everyone else has. When it comes to literacy, this is one right ALL humans should possess.