Investigating Students Leisure-Time Reading Preferences in Upper Primary Classrooms in Fiji

This quantitative study investigated upper primary school students' leisure time reading preferences in Fiji. A structured questionnaire was administered to 92 students in Years 7 and 8 of a select school in western Fiji. The findings revealed that the majority of students engaged in leisure reading, with storybooks being the most preferred reading material, followed by newspapers, magazines, online materials and religious texts. Adventure stories emerged as the most popular subgenre, and horror, comedy, romance, and suspense were also preferred by students. The study identified specific titles and authors that captured the students' interest, with J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series being the most popular. These findings challenge the notion that students do not read during their leisure time and highlight the importance of promoting and supporting reading habits among young learners. The study has significant implications for teachers, parents, and policymakers in promoting literacy and cultivating a love for reading. Teachers can accommodate students’ diverse interests by incorporating a variety of reading materials and genres into educational settings. Parents can encourage reading at home by providing access to books and modelling positive reading habits. Policymakers can support literacy initiatives by investing in well-stocked libraries and promoting community-based reading programmes. By understanding and nurturing students' reading preferences, stakeholders can create an environment that encourages lifelong learning and enhances overall academic achievement.