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Books

Thu Feb 26 2026

Clare Mulroy | Books Reporter

Happy Thursday, booklovers!

I won't lie, the numbers aren't encouraging. Leisure reading rates are down by more than 40% over the last 20 years, according to a study published last year. Roughly 54% of Americans read below a sixth-grade reading level, says the National Literacy Institute.

But I've got a spot of good news this week for you: A man who spent the first 32 years of his life illiterate is now not only an avid reader, but a published author.

Oliver James couldn't read just five years ago, a lifelong secret he confessed on TikTok because he was done hiding. BookTok rallied around him, and soon he was reading every day on TikTok with the help of thousands of "tutors." He read 100 books that year and is now sharing his story in "Unread," a memoir out this week.

Oliver James is a personal trainer, literacy advocate and motivational speaker. He's inspired others through his journey to read in his 30s.

Courtesy of Planet Word

I caught up with Oliver a few weeks ago after reading his book. We talked a lot about children's books. When he began his reading journey, he learned as much from "The Very Hungry Caterpillar" and "Holes" as he did "The Four Agreements." Not only did books for young readers provide a foundation, but they also taught him empathy, self-esteem, how to cry (and not feel shameful about it) and how to care for his mental health.

There's a good lesson we can all learn from James – a good book is a good book, no matter what age it's intended for. Other than our parents and teachers, children's books are often the first places we learn the lessons that we carry with us into adulthood. It reminds me of a feature I wrote in 2024 about why children's books stick with us as we age. Adults told me the best books inspire youngsters to keep reading, process emotions and are enjoyable for all ages. And one kiddo told me the best read "helps your brain grow."

What books raised you as a reader? Share your thoughts at cmulroy@usatoday.com or by reaching out on Instagram. Thanks for checking out USA TODAY Books this week!