Ask them! : children's fiction book choices and the implications for libraries

Abstract

This research explores the factors influencing children's fiction preferences, and the implications for libraries. The theoretical basis for the research was Jean Piaget's theories of social and cognitive development in middle childhood. This study found that although there are many influences competing for children's time, children are still enjoying reading and enthusiastic when talking about books. Results revealed that children have clear ideas about what they themselves enjoy reading, and adventure, mysteries and funny books rated most highly. The most popular titles were from the Harry Potter series. Children's favourite authors in this study were J K Rowling, Jacqueline Wilson, David Hill and Joy Cowley. The study also showed that children responded best to peer recommendations for books. Children are able to articulate their preferences with an emotional and narrative response, rather than an evaluative response. Children's choice of fiction books can be understood in the light of Piaget's theories of middle childhood development. It is suggested that library services could be doing more to facilitate fiction selection decisions, by promoting books enjoyed by other children, and by arranging the collection so that children can easily find books they may enjoy. The incorporation of children's views and preferences into library selection decisions would promote children's reading and encourage library use.