Full Breakdown
Teenage Boys Stuck on Primary-Level Series: Gender Gap in UK Secondary Reading Habits
6/27/2026, 12:27:20 AM
Core Findings: Boys’ Preference for Diary of a Wimpy Kid
The 2024-25 *What Kids Are Reading* report by Renaissance shows that among secondary pupils aged 11-14, eight of the ten most-read titles were Jeff Kinney’s *Diary of a Wimpy Kid* series. The only other boys’ titles: *The Hunger Games* and *Harry Potter and Philosopher’s Stone*. Girls of that age read a mix including *Heartstopper*, *A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder*, *The Hunger Games*, *Lottie Brooks* and *Harry Potter*.
Data & Context
Analyzing over 23 million reading-quiz responses from nearly 1.1 million UK and Ireland pupils, the study found that in Years 3-6, *Diary of a Wimpy Kid* held nine of the ten top spots for boys. Boys scored 92 % on favourite-book quizzes, versus 76 % overall. Only 28 % of secondary schools allocate at least 15 minutes daily for reading, versus 62 % of primary schools. The National Literacy Trust reports less than 10 % of boys read daily by age 14, versus 18 % of girls.
Impact & Official Responses
Reliance on a single series may stall development and limit exposure to complex texts. The Department for Education’s National Year of Reading campaign, run with the National Literacy Trust, flags teenage boys as the group most in need after reading enjoyment fell to a record low. Renaissance’s head of research Bernadetta Brzyska urged schools to broaden offerings, and National Literacy Trust called the widening gap a clear call to action. Addressing this gap is essential for future literacy.
Criticism & Gaps
Educators argue that focusing on series ignores pressure, warning reading time alone may not sustain engagement. *Diary of a Wimpy Kid* dominates boys; the Guardian lists *The Hunger Games* and *Harry Potter*, while GB News adds *Harry Potter and Philosopher’s Stone*.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Too many young people are ‘stuck’ or disengaging from reading altogether, often because they have not yet found books that feel relevant, accessible or inspiring.” — Martin Galway, Head of Professional Learning and Partnerships, National Literacy Trust
- “Children read best when they read what they love, and that is the thread running through this year's report.” — Bernadetta Brzyska, Head of Research, Renaissance
- “Too many young people are ‘stuck’ or disengaging from reading altogether, often because they have not yet found books that feel relevant, accessible or inspiring.” — Martin Galway, Head of Professional Learning and Partnerships, National Literacy Trust
- “The Wimpy Kid books are written for readers aged eight and above.” — GB News
