How to buy a book for a child who is a non-reader? The trick is to meet them where they are

A child reads a book on a bed. When giving books as a gift to a young person, it is recommended to choose something written for them and their interests. Photograph: Catherine Falls Commercial/Getty Images

The Black Friday sales have disappeared in the rearview mirror, but gift-buying season is still in full swing. And while it’s easy to pay lip service to the “four gift” rule – something they want, something they need, something to wear and something to read – I’m suggesting that, with the cost of living cutting deep and the festive spirit in short supply, we bring it into laser-like focus.

In fact, I’m suggesting we target item number four: give a book to every Australian child and teenager.