MG and YA (and some adult) non-readers:
Twilight by Stephenie Meyer:
I'm just going to say it. I have heard a LOT of stories about non-readers picking this up and becoming a reader. It may not be good literature, but it is a gateway series for many, many people.
Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins:
Ditto this one as the series that made many non-readers into hard-core readers. Hand this to your action-movie addicted friends. They will get sucked right in. And then they can enjoy all the dystopian/apocalyptic/post-apoc stuff coming out now.
Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling:
The movies did a lot for this series, though it didn't need much help. But many who watched the movies then turned to the books and found a new love. The first books are short, accessible, and funny. That should get them addicted, er started.
Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney:
Seriously, these are funny and have lots of great kid-friendly illustrations to ease anyone into reading. Hand this off to your reluctant tween readers.
39 Clues series by various authors:
For the kids who are addicted to computers and electronics - this will help them interact with the printed word too. Plus it has lots of action and puzzle-solving fun.
A Tale Dark and Grimm by Adam Gidwitz:
If someone's seen a few too many fairy tales or analyzed a few too many folk stories, hand them this for a not-your-usual fare. They will laugh and gasp in horror and certainly enjoy every minute.
The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick:
Easy on the eyes and with overwhelmingly few words, this is sure to spark an interest in what else might be between book covers.
For the adult non-readers:
My Sister's Keeper: A Novel by Jodi Picoult:
Readers will be drawn into this emotional and accessible story. And if they love it, there are tons more Picoult they can enjoy on the way to becoming a reader.
The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold:
This one also packs an emotional punch that will engross them quickly and completely. It also holds non-stop story to keep them reading to the end.
The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern:
A surreal trip through a fascinating landscape and with a love story to lure in those itching for a little romance.
What are your go-to non-reader recommendations?
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