Read our review of the existing literature that explores reading for pleasure, its importance and its impact on literacy attainment and other outcomes. Although the Rose Review placed phonics firmly within a language-rich framework that fosters positive attitudes towards reading and a love of books, this context was lost in the subsequent press coverage.
It therefore seemed important to collect evidence that furthers our understanding of the value of reading for pleasure and to provide information that will enable parents, teachers and policymakers to promote reading motivation and wider reading. As part of the discussion, this paper also delves into different types of motivation and the impact they have on literacy behaviour and learning.