The truth behind the endless “kids can’t read” discourse

Every month or so, for the past few years, a new dire story has warned of how American children, from elementary school to college age, can no longer read. And every time I read one of these stories, I find myself conflicted. On the one hand, I am aware that every generation complains that the kids who come next are doing everything wrong and have gotten stupider and less respectful. I fear falling into this trap myself, becoming an old man yelling at cloud.  On the other hand, with every new story, I find myself asking: … Can the kids read, though? I don’t think I’m alone in this