This morning I was shocked to read that the rate of functional illiteracy in America is 21%. Of the six countries that participated in the study, only Italy has a worse rate. What's more, the study found that the rate is 36% in our country's capital -- what does that say about our country, our educational system and the children we are allowing to fall through the cracks?
Reading was fundamental at my house, it was never a chore nor a punishment. Instead, my mom delightfully recited her favorite poetry to us and allowed us to lay up and read as much as we wished. While I recently read that reading books has increased amongst teenagers, I know from my own experience that the publishing world is quickly losing ground with older boys and teens who are lacking the sort of books that are needed to keep them grounded in reading. Not all boys are into sci-fi or Eragon or Harry Potter.
In addition, with public libraries shutting down their doors due to budget cuts and buckling educational system, it's no wonder that so many Americans can't read this post. So what do we do?
Closing Bell: Dubai sends jitters throughout the market (S, BBY)
Heinz looking good after the second quarter?
Why isn't Bank of America updating its shareholders on CEO situation?
