But, says a publication for teenagers developed by Reading Is Fundamental, there are lots of good reasons why teens should read.

For instance, reading can help teens:

• Become an expert. Whether teens are interested in stats or spelunking, coins or carburetors, reading can help teens become an expert.

• See the world—and travel through time. Books can take teens from the frontiers of the Old West to the frontiers of space...and from the top of the Eiffel Tower to the bottom of the Grand Canyon.

• Find a cause. Teens are idealists. Reading can help them learn more about people and organizations that support the causes they believe in.

• Discover new interests. Through reading, your teen may discover an interest in something he knew nothing about.

• Get some free advice. Lots of novels feature teenage characters who have problems and pressures like the ones your teen is facing. Be sure your teen browses through the Young Adult section of the library or bookstore.

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