Many of us can remember the book that made us into readers. Probably, someone--a teacher, a parent, a librarian-- put that book into your hands, told you a little about it, and said "I think you'll like this one." Sadly, many students reach middle school without having that experience. They don't identify as readers. They think reading is not for them. They are wrong!
When I can speak enthusiastically and knowledgeably about a book, students are willing to give it one more try. As a veteran middle school Language Arts teacher and a school librarian, I know that enthusiasm can't be faked. I need books that I know are captivating. I need variety. I need "that book," and "that book" is different for every child. When the library's collection is vast, varied, and high-quality, my chances for success improve. And when I succeed, students do too. It's that simple.
About my class
Many of us can remember the book that made us into readers. Probably, someone--a teacher, a parent, a librarian-- put that book into your hands, told you a little about it, and said "I think you'll like this one." Sadly, many students reach middle school without having that experience. They don't identify as readers. They think reading is not for them. They are wrong!
When I can speak enthusiastically and knowledgeably about a book, students are willing to give it one more try. As a veteran middle school Language Arts teacher and a school librarian, I know that enthusiasm can't be faked. I need books that I know are captivating. I need variety. I need "that book," and "that book" is different for every child. When the library's collection is vast, varied, and high-quality, my chances for success improve. And when I succeed, students do too. It's that simple.
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