Boys will be boys and for reading, the key is to let them choose their materials.

They definitely have different tastes than girls, and recent national studies boys tend to lag about a year and a half behind the girls in reading development. So what can we do to help them catch up?

Give them choices. As librarians, we sometimes have gender bias when we choose books that must meet standards and reviews. Boys, however, want gross, exciting, silly, outrageous, and action-packed, facts books. Talk to them about the fun you have when you read.

Men, don’t be afraid to share what you like about reading with your sons, nephews, and friends. Just remember to keep it short and sweet. If they don’t like your particular book, maybe they will share what they do like to read with you. Get them reading anything- cereal boxes, trading cards, comics (graphic novels), sports pages from the newspaper — without criticism then work in the repair manuals,

Classics, how- to-do it books. The library has some book lists to help you find the right book for your son or guy.

In Michael Sullivan’s, “Connecting Boys with Books,” which is a book primarily for educators and librarians he attempts to catch boys in the “tween” years when there are absence of mentors, some developmental challenges, and few appealing programs that will attract them to the library. It is in his chapters of reading promotions and book talking that he discusses some of his recommendations for books with boy appeal.

“Gotcha for Guys; nonfiction books to get boys excited about reading,” by Kathleen A. Baxter and Marcia Agness Kochel has three kinds of lists. The first list includes those books that make great book talks, the second list has annotations of books that are popular with boys, and lastly books that appeal which may or may not have great book reviews. Some of the chapters are American History, Prehistoric Creatures, Disasters and Unsolved Mysteries with spotlights book talks to spark the interest of reluctant readers.

“Valerie and Walters Best Books for Children: a lively and opinionated guide” can give you a brief synopsis of books for age’s birth to 12.

While this book may not point out books specifically for boys you can locate some interesting titles with listening and interest levels, as well as an appendix with out-of- print books, other lists by series, and personal favorites.

For teens there are “Radical Reads; 101 YA Novels on the Edge,” which deals with books that are raw and relevant for teens struggling with the pressures of growing up and finding their way in today's world. Included in this book are tips for writing effective book reports and book talks.

Each book discussion gives subjects covered, characters, the major themes and ideas, suggested book report and book talk ideas, as well as risks and strengths, awards, and reviews.

Online lists of books for boys can be found on the American Library Association at www.ala.org where you can get recommendations from Young Adult Library Services Association.

The National Council Teachers of English also has recommended books for those educating elementary and secondary students at www.ncte.org. Ask your librarian about other Web sites, reference books and parenting books to help your child get in the reading habit at your library.