I can't promise that every child with learning differences will become a novelist, but I do think all children can become lifelong readers.

In this quote, Rick Riordan emphasizes the importance of reading as a lifelong skill, especially for children with learning differences. While he acknowledges that not every child will become a novelist, he believes that every child has the potential to become a lifelong reader, regardless of their learning challenges. Riordan suggests that the act of reading can be transformative, helping children not only develop literacy skills but also expand their imagination and understanding of the world around them.

Riordan’s statement is rooted in his commitment to educational inclusion and his belief in the power of literature to engage all children. By focusing on lifelong reading, he stresses the idea that reading is not just a goal or a skill to be mastered but an ongoing journey that can benefit children throughout their lives. This perspective encourages a love of books and an appreciation for stories, even for those who may struggle academically in other areas.

The origin of this quote comes from Riordan’s own experience writing books that engage young readers, particularly those with learning differences. His famous series, including Percy Jackson and the Olympians, often features characters with neurodiverse traits, such as ADHD and dyslexia. Riordan has been a vocal advocate for the inclusion of children with learning differences in literature, showing them that they, too, can be heroes in the stories they read and write.

Ultimately, Riordan’s words reinforce the idea that reading is a crucial life skill that can offer countless benefits, not just in childhood but throughout one's entire life. By focusing on the joy and value of reading, he encourages children—especially those with learning differences—to see themselves as capable of engaging with the world of books in meaningful and lasting ways.