Letter: Books for the boys

Sir: By choosing a list of recommended books which consists entirely of fiction ("What a growing lad needs is a naughty book, says Blair", 31 August), Tony Blair reinforces one of the assumptions that make life more difficult for boys in the education system, the assumption that reading, to be worthwhile, must mean reading traditional fiction.

There is anecdotal and research evidence that many boys prefer reading non-fiction, such as books and magazines relevant to their hobbies and interests. By overlooking or belittling boys' interests, many educationalists and media pundits have contributed to the alienation of boys from books. Perhaps Mr Blair should be encouraged to set an example by giving us a list of those non-fiction titles, on subjects ranging from history and art to music, sport and technology, which he would most like to share with his sons.

Dr GRAHAM GOULD

Department of Theology and Religious Studies

King's College

London WC2