Books were once the exclusive domain of men. As recently as the 19th and early 20th century, women in this country were discouraged from reading, and some were not even taught or allowed to go to school.
Fortunately, huge progress has been made in this area. So much so that reading is sometimes considered too "girly" by young boys and men. Elementary education is staffed by many committed and intelligent female teachers and administrators. And United Way has two reading mentor programs—Power Read and Book Buddy—with a majority of dedicated female volunteers.
