La pasión en la lectura la ponen los jóvenes | Sebastián García Mouret | TEDxYouth@Gijón

Summary

In a passionate defense of youth and literature, translator Paula Saavedra challenges the stereotype that young people don't read. She emphasizes their deep engagement with diverse literary genres, contrasting this with the traditional education system that often forces classic texts upon them. Saavedra argues for the importance of fostering a genuine love for reading, rather than imposing outdated curricula. Highlighting the success of her own literary channel, she illustrates the widespread enthusiasm for literature among young audiences, ultimately affirming that today's youth are indeed avid readers who share their experiences and emotions through books.

Takeaways

• 📚 Young people are passionate readers of literature, debunking the stereotype that they do not read.
• ✨ They enjoy various genres, from classic literature to contemporary works, and are open to reading anything.
• 🗣️ The phrase 'Today's young people' has been used for generations, indicating a long history of criticism towards youth.
• 💔 Teenagers are deeply moved by literature, connecting emotionally with characters and stories.
• 👩‍🏫 Education often forces young readers to engage with classics in ways that diminish their passion for reading.
• 📖 Schools should cultivate a love for literature rather than impose reading lists that may not resonate with students.
• 😅 There is a disconnect between traditional literature taught in schools and the relatable themes in modern young adult novels.
• 📝 Young readers are encouraged to express their literary preferences to teachers and advocate for the books they want to read.
• 🌍 The speaker successfully built a global community of young readers through an online literature channel.
• 🚀 The idea that young people no longer read is a misconception; they engage with literature in their own unique ways.

Q & A

What common misconception about young people and reading is addressed in the transcript?

The transcript challenges the belief that young people do not read literature, asserting that they are passionate readers who enjoy various genres.

How does the speaker differentiate between types of reading?

The speaker emphasizes that young people read literature, not just social media posts like those on Twitter or WhatsApp, indicating a depth of engagement with text.

What does the speaker suggest about the emotional connection young people have with literature?

The speaker claims that young people experience literature with strong emotions, feeling deeply moved by characters and events, which reflects their passionate reading habits.

How does the speaker describe the role of educators in promoting reading?

The speaker criticizes the educational system for imposing classic literature on students, suggesting that this approach can lead to a hatred of reading rather than fostering a passion for it.

What examples does the speaker give to highlight the disconnect between classic literature and contemporary youth?

The speaker compares the themes of classic literature, like 'Romeo and Juliet,' to modern romantic novels, showing that the feelings and plots are still relevant to today's youth.

What is the significance of Geek Pride Day mentioned in the transcript?

Geek Pride Day symbolizes the acceptance and celebration of being passionate about literature and other interests, countering the stigma associated with being labeled a 'geek.'

What does the speaker suggest students do regarding their reading preferences?

The speaker encourages students to communicate their reading interests to their teachers and advocate for literature that excites them instead of being forced to read classics they do not enjoy.

How does the speaker relate their personal experience to the wider youth reading culture?

The speaker shares their experience of creating a literature channel at a young age, demonstrating that there is a thriving community of young readers who engage passionately with literature despite common beliefs.

What statistics about young adult literature does the speaker mention?

The speaker notes that young adult literature represents 20% of the sales in the publishing industry, indicating a significant interest among young readers.

How does the speaker conclude their message regarding young people and reading?

The speaker concludes by affirming that, despite skepticism from others, young people do read and enjoy literature, urging them to maintain their passion for reading.