Countering the Effects of Poverty

Children of low-income families have a greatly reduced chance of thriving in academics and succeeding in life because of lack of access to a crucial educational tool: books. Without a strong education, the cycle of poverty continues throughout each child’s life. This both has social consequences and affects future generations.

• The most significant indicator of poverty is low academic achievement.
• The most significant indicator of low academic achievement, in all areas, is poor literacy skills. 
• The most significant predictor of poor literacy skills is having few or no books in the home.

Reading for pleasure is the quickest way to improve in reading, acquire a second language, and develop the motivation, confidence, skills and knowledge that lead to academic success in all areas. 

Book Trust is a long-term and effective way to break this barrier of need. The program enriches entire families, slowly building momentum behind one of the greatest forces capable of breaking the cycle of poverty—literacy.

Please click here to see our research page for citations and further information.