Prime Highlights:
- Bestselling author Lee Child says the current focus on literary “masterpieces” in UK schools is putting children off reading, and thrillers should be introduced to engage young readers.
- Child’s literacy sessions in prisons show reading and writing can improve inmates’ skills, reduce reoffending, and create a calmer, more positive environment.
Key Facts:
- Jack Reacher author Lee Child has sold over 100 million books worldwide and has been running literacy sessions at HMP Doncaster alongside Labour MP Paul Davies.
- The programme has visited five prisons so far, with plans to expand to twenty, aiming to inspire inmates and provide practical writing and reading skills.
Background:
Bestselling author Lee Child has called for a rethink of the literature taught in UK schools, arguing that an overemphasis on classic “masterpieces” is discouraging young people from reading. The writer, best known for his Jack Reacher thrillers that have sold more than 100 million copies worldwide, believes gripping, accessible books should be introduced first to spark a lifelong reading habit.
Speaking during a visit to HMP Doncaster, Child said many pupils struggle to engage with demanding texts at an early age. While he acknowledged the value of classic literature, he suggested it should come later. “Children need stories that pull them in,” he said, adding that compelling genres such as thrillers could help students discover the pleasure of reading before tackling more complex works.
The child also pointed to the pressures of modern life, particularly social media, which he said has shortened attention spans and made sustained reading more difficult. In that environment, he argued, schools should focus on books that are immersive and exciting, rather than intimidating.
The author was in Doncaster as part of a prison literacy initiative he hopes to expand nationally. During writing and reading sessions with inmates, Child said he had seen firsthand how engaging stories can transform attitudes towards literacy. Many of the prisoners, he noted, had been alienated from reading during their school years after being confronted with texts they found inaccessible.
According to Child, increased engagement with reading and writing has had a noticeable impact within prisons. Inmates who take part in literacy activities are more focused and calmer, contributing to a more positive atmosphere. He believes stronger literacy skills could also play a role in reducing reoffending rates by giving people greater confidence and opportunities once they leave custody.
The scheme was developed alongside Paul Davies, Labour MP for Colne Valley, and has already visited five prisons. The aim is to expand to 20 institutions before establishing a regional model involving other authors. Justice minister Jake Richards, who attended the Doncaster session, said initiatives like this highlight the importance of equipping prisoners with skills and confidence to reintegrate into society.
