Sasha Quinton, president of Scholastic Children’s Book Group, highlights the pressing issue of reading engagement and its significance for the future of publishing. She emphasizes that reading is not solely about proficiency but also about fostering a desire to read.
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Quinton points out that while reading proficiency has significantly declined, a troubling trend regarding reading engagement has also emerged. The Nation’s Report Card reveals that only 14% of 13-year-olds reported reading for pleasure almost daily in 2025, down from 27% in 2012. Additionally, Scholastic’s Kids & Family Reading Report™ shows a decrease in frequent readers among children ages 6-17, from 46% among 6-8-year-olds to just 15% for those aged 15-17.
The phenomenon termed the “decline by nine” reflects when children's enjoyment and frequency of reading begins to diminish. Quinton stresses the need for the publishing industry to prioritize fostering a love for reading, alongside existing efforts to improve literacy skills.
She believes that the publishing sector holds a unique opportunity and responsibility to reverse these trends by ensuring that every child in America has access to books and by nurturing early connections between parents and children through storytelling. Quinton argues that engagement should evolve continuously as children's interests change, requiring the industry to become more responsive and agile.
As culture shifts rapidly, Quinton urges publishers to connect with children's evolving interests and to sustain excitement around reading. She compares today’s serialized media consumption patterns with publishing practices, noting that children accustomed to immediate entertainment may grow frustrated by long waits for sequels.
Quinton advocates for breaking traditional publishing cycles to capitalize on fleeting moments of interest while still honoring the time and creativity involved in book production. She acknowledges the tension between maintaining quality and the need for timely releases but asserts that finding a balance is essential for engagement.
Quinton recalls a conversation with Scholastic's Chief Merchant Jackie De Leo, where they discussed the role of data in predicting market trends. While data can drive sales, Quinton highlights the importance of preserving creative space for unexpected successes that cannot be predicted.
She envisions a collaborative approach where agents become creative partners, helping to ignite fresh ideas rather than merely pitching projects. To succeed, the publishing industry must embrace risk-taking and cultivate a mindset that encourages experimentation.
Quinton shares a phrase from her leadership team: “It’s impossible unless…” This encourages problem-solving and reframing challenges in a way that fosters innovation.
Reflecting on the industry's challenges, Quinton emphasizes the importance of engaging children earlier, keeping them captivated longer, and adapting to their shifting preferences. By asking what changes could make these goals attainable, Quinton believes the industry can harness its creative strength to inspire future generations of readers.
On September 30, 2026, Quinton spoke on a panel at the Association of American Literary Agents’ annual People of Publishing conference in New York City, alongside industry leaders Mary McAveny and Dominique Raccah, moderated by Regina Brooks.