Boys are falling further behind girls in their reading abilities and comprehension, mainly because of differences in brain development between boys and girls. This reading gender gap is affecting boys' performance in high school and beyond. Our male mentors provide support the boys need to understand or interpret what they are reading and serve as role models to show that reading is not just something girls do. Books are selected that appeal to the interests of boys, like sports or adventure. The children then engage in exciting reading opportunities and other fun literacy-rich activities. They also receive free books and a subscription to a magazine that they choose from a list.

Participants are picked up at school by mentors from 100 Black Men Of Prince George's County, an organization focused on providing leadership and mentoring guidance to encourage and engage African American youth and young adults. The program is not school; there are no grades or homework. Program sessions begin with icebreakers or opening activities, aiming for five or ten minutes. Each participant is then presented with reading options, which can include a book, photocopy of a story, or other materials. Either the mentor, participants, or both read out loud with the goal of helping you read yourself until you "know" your group. All participants are encouraged to follow along with the reading and take part in a discussion about the material.

The most important outcome of Boys Read with 100 Black Men of Prince George’s County is that reluctant readers will find that they can and do enjoy reading. Since 2008, surveys of participants consistently show that, on average, 85% of the boys say they enjoy reading after participating. Our new partner, 100 Black Men, has worked with 20 boys (and 3 of their sisters!) in the first year with our new partner in Boys Read. The model will be replicated at other branches next year. One lesson learned is that, in a semi-urban area, transportation is a key factor in attendance.