Black boys are rarely given the opportunity to fall in love with reading. They are rarely exposed to books they don’t want to put down in the classroom. The required reading does not speak to their interests, history, community or culture. Therefore, many only read books to pass a test. Black boys need and deserve to love reading.
Razor Sharp Readers utilizes the barber shop to promote a love for reading while providing mentorship in a fun and effective way. The Razor Sharp Readers corner consists of a children’s themed bookcase stocked with literature that positively affirms the cultural experiences and preferences of African-American boys. CCA trains the barbers on the challenges and barriers Black boys face around literacy.
Barbers encourage their young Readers to explore the bookcase for books to read while they wait for their turn to get their hair cut. While in the chair, Readers read to their barber as they get their hair cut. The barbers collectively encourage and praise each Reader. The program is currently in Kinetic Kutz and Stylez and Better Barbers, both located in Norfolk, VA with over 5,000 hours of reading and mentorship.
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