This study explores connections among adolescent engagement with reading, peer relationships, and identity development. The author chose and interviewed 10 of his former students, their parents, and the students' current teachers, and analyzed themes, drawing on Gee's theory of primary and secondary Discourses. The case studies illustrate how "independent reading" is a social practice in crucial ways; students seem to choose to read, or not to read, based not only on ability, or solely on parental support, but also in relation to questions of identity and the cultivation of particular relationships. Teaching strategies are suggested. (Contains 1 table.)