Not knowing how to read can really get a kid into trouble. Martin is a good reader, but his twin brother Morton thinks "Reading is for idjits!" In W.W. Rowe's book Reading is for Idjits, we see the trouble that Morton gets into as a result of his not being able to read. After several increasingly dangerous episodes, Morton's parents finally said he could have no TV, video games, or caramel-swirl ice cream until he learns to read. When he does, he finds out that he not only enjoys it, but it can be a helpful skill!

Rowe's story is silly and simple, with a message greater than the telling. Charles Filius's colorful, cartoonish illustrations add to the story. Reading is for Idjits isn't destined to be a classic of children's literature, but it's a fun little story with a good message.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the complimentary electronic review copy!

This is a cute book emphasizing the importance of learning to read.

This book has a very positive and inspiring message for kids, especially to reluctant readers and particularly boys. Many kids find reading boring and do not want to even give it a try because let's face it technology and movies etc. are so much more action-packed and entertaining right? But the very people who produce and create these technological marvels have to know how to read to get those experiences out to the public.

Martin and Morton are identical twins but when it comes to their perspective on reading it is like night and day. Martin (nicknamed Smarty Marty) is an avid reader and overachiever while Morton (nicknamed Morton the Moron) thinks reading is dumb and why should he even bother. Morton's mantra is, "Reading is for idjits!"

Morton finds out the hard way that perhaps he underestimated the power (and safety) of being able to read the words that surround him daily. He discovers that reading is not only beneficial to himself but can be used to help others around him too. Luckily Morton lives in a loving family who encourages him to read and cares enough for him to make that happen.

It is a reading success story that will show kids just how important reading is. It is written with humour and love and will be well received by kids as opposed to a well-meaning nagging parent or teacher. It would be a perfect fit for a classroom and read aloud for beginning readers. I highly recommend this book.