Connecting people and planet through reading for pleasure

Jones, Verity; Webber, Amanda

Abstract

This chapter reflects on research using MG Leonard’s Beetle Boy to consider how reading for pleasure has the potential to impact upon social and environmental action. Research with children and teachers revealed how reading the book supported them to increase their interest in, and explore their feelings about, the environment. Some participants also discussed an increase in confidence and a change in behaviour around insects following engagement with the story. Learner led reading for pleasure and the potential resultant connection with Nature is vital given the current climate and ecological emergency that we face.

• Publication Date: Mar 26, 2025
• Deposit Date: Sep 26, 2024
• Publicly Available Date: Sep 27, 2026
• Publisher: Routledge
• Book Title: Putting Social Justice and Equity at the Heart of Reading for Pleasure: Tools, Tips and Research to Support Professionals in Primary Classrooms
• Chapter Number: 4
• ISBN: 9781032530543
• Public URL: https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/13012798
• Publisher URL: https://www.routledge.com/Putting-Social-Justice-and-Equity-at-the-Heart-of-Reading-for-Pleasure-Tools-Tips-and-Research-to-Support-Professionals-in-Primary-Classrooms/Carter/p/book/9781032530529
• Contract Date: Jan 5, 2024