1
Curate discovery more than introduce titles. When positioning a book to buyers, ask yourself,“ What experience does this book offer?” Children will respond better to narrative than lessons. So instead of saying,“ In this book, you will learn about courage,” try,“ There once was a girl who was terrified to speak …” Now, I am leaning in, wondering who she is and what she has to say. I’ ll buy
that book.
2
Give kid recommendation to kids. Through signage, videos, book reviews or back cover and jacket copy, highlight how another child resonated with this content. They carry credibility with each other. While adults might respond to“ bestselling lists,” kids will wonder why,“ Tommy, age 10, gives this book a thumbs up.” If he liked
it, maybe I will too.
3
Consider finding ways to expose children to real-life stories
Create space for conversation with kids about what they are reading. Whether that’ s hosting online forums, producing conversation cards for adults to use with kids or inviting someone to join a faith-based discussion group, we remember for a long time what we have exchanged with another. When reading becomes communal rather than isolated, children are more likely to internalize what they read. They identify themselves as readers and that’ s good for us all.
4
Good books cause us to ask good questions, more than receive good answers. When marketing a book, identify what the child will be curious about after reading it. Will they be thinking about the value of friendship, or the practice of confession, or the cost of speaking up? Children thrive when they’ re given language for their feelings, permission to question and assurance they won’ t be shamed for their inquisitiveness. Readers are leaders and good leaders stay curious.
5
Children thrive when they’ re given language for their feelings
Research in child development consistently shows children learn best when emotion is engaged and the story activates imagination. What would it be like to live in that country? Have that pet? Be in that family? Consider finding ways to expose children to real-life stories. Whether fiction or non-fiction, a good book builds a world that moves the reader to feel something. That is ageless, and as an adult, the themes introduced in a book should move us, too, even if
our context is more complex.
6
Stay relevant. What are kids talking about today?
Where does their faith and culture connect and how can we equip them with the tools and principles to know who they are in Christ? How can we advertise with key words that offer titles as suggestions to address current concerns kids are carrying( e. g., bullying, self-image, anxiety).
18 CRA today / www. christianretailassociation. org