Why encourage adolescents to read literature?

Scholarly benefit has for long been at the centre of enquiries into the reading of literary works during adolescence. At this age, however, this kind of reading is used above all to develop direction, to shape the individual's experience and history, and to create bonds. In this time of confusion, when there is a great deal of questioning about "resilience", the contribution of literature continues to be underestimated; yet it provides a remarkable support for regenerating activities of symbolisation, of building a sense of direction, and of self-renewal.
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