One of the biggest complaints about reading in school is having to read things outside of one's areas of interests. Many reading curriculums often have set topics or texts for students to read, but that doesn't mean that teachers can't supplement the curriculum with materials from student's interest areas. As readers, we need to take advantage of every opportunity to read things that interest us. Likewise, if we wish to grow as readers we must be willing, at times, to step outside of our comfort zone and challenge ourselves to read something new. If we open ourselves up to new texts and new genres we may just find that our interests will expand. Each time we experience something new--do something we've never done before--we get an opportunity to expand our reading interest by finding things to read about that subject.
Recently, I had the opportunity to build a pinewood derby race car with my son. This was something I had never done before. In order to make sure that I was doing it right, I enlisted the help of a friend with vast woodworking experience. He told me which tools to buy and walked me through the process of designing and building a great race car. I was so interested, in fact, that my son and I took a trip to the library to find books on pinewood and soapbox derbies. Not only did I expand my reading interest, but I also had a great bonding experience with my child.
So, be willing to step out of your box. Try something new. Read something from a genre you might not be interested in. You might be amazed at the results. This week's featured books are a great place to start.
This Week's Featured Books:
Everything you've ever wanted to know about one of jazz music's greatest names can be found in this book. The award winning writing of Andrew Davis Pinkny coupled with the award winning illustrations from Brian Pinkny make this a must read for all aspiring jazz fans and book lovers.
Author: Andrew Davis Pinkny
Audience: Ages 5-10
Length: 32 pages
Language: English
Publisher: Hyperion Book CH (2006)
ISBN-10: 0786814209
ISBN-13: 978-0786814206
While trying to find his way to town a jazzy fly meets some interesting animals. All of these animals make different sounds. The Jazz fly collects each of these sounds and uses them to play jazz in a way it's never been played before. This amazing book comes with a cd full of jazz music performed by the author. Add the creative illustrations and you've got a great book!
Author: Mathew Gollub
Audience: Ages 4 and up
Length:32 pages
Language: English
Publisher: Tortuga Pr (2000)
ISBN-10: 1889910171
ISBN-13: 978-1889910178
In the winter of 1926 everyone has a positive attitude. They see nothing but good things ahead. That is, until Joe Trace, a beauty product salesman, commits an unspeakable crime. His wife reacts in an equally ugly manner. This passionate story shifts through time to show us the emotions, hopes, fears, and deep realities of black urban life.
Author: Toni Morrison
Audience: Adult
Length: 256 pages
Language: English
Publisher: Vintage (2004)
ISBN-10: 1400076218
ISBN-13: 978-1400076215
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