OUTSPOKEN TV presenter Jeremy Clarkson is disturbing the peace of school libraries across the country under a scheme to encourage more boys to read books.

The Chipping Norton resident's book on machines, I Know You Got Soul, has proved the most in-demand among librarians ordering books to appeal to boys. Every secondary school in England is setting up a dedicated "boys' bookshelf" as part of a Government-funded initiative to improve reading among 11- to 14-year-old boys.

And Clarkson, host of the television programme Top Gear, is their author of choice. The scheme followed concern over the large numbers of boys who struggle with basic literacy and never read for pleasure.

Kathy Lemaire, chief executive of the School Library Association, said the "rebellious", speed-loving Clarkson was a popular choice for boys. She said: "He is probably a bit of a role model for boys of that age. He's a rebel against the establishment, he is associated with speed and cars.

"As long as Clarkson isn't their only male role model, then why not? We all need a bit of escapism."

Mr Clarkson's book explores machines such as Concorde, submarines and the Zeppelin - all chosen for their "soul". In the book he explained what makes Concorde and the AK-47 special: "it's because they possess that most human of qualities, a flaw". School librarians have ordered 1,409 copies of the book.