The Fox News Rundown Extra: James Patterson Breaks Down America's "Last Line of Defense"
Apr 12, 2026
James Patterson, bestselling author and literacy philanthropist, advocates for teachers as our first line of hope. He discusses the reading crisis, a phonics-plus approach used at the University of Florida, and why story-driven books engage kids. He also talks about teachers’ sacrifices, dwindling libraries, limiting screens, and targeted philanthropy for literacy and HBCUs.
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Reading Crisis Is Solvable With Proven Programs
- Only ~43% of U.S. kids read at grade level, but University of Florida programs can raise that to the low 80s.
- James Patterson cites Florida's results, especially huge gains for Black and Latino students, as proof the method works.
Bring Phonics Back Within Teacher Training
- Teach phonics as part of a broader, well-trained teacher-led program rather than abandoning it.
- Patterson highlights University of Florida's online teacher training and The Reading Reboot documentary showing kindergarten classes transformed.
Kindergarten Classes Flip From Frustration To Joy
- Patterson watched kindergarten classes where students became excited about reading after the new system was applied.
- Teachers said some considered leaving but now look forward to coming to work every day.
