Reading Aloud

I want to do some catchy tagline that will instantly make all of you want to read this book, but I'm afraid it will just sound stupid.

I took a children's literature class in college, and an earlier edition of this book, in addition to lots of children's books, was our main textbook. (Oh, man. That class was so awesome.) Jamie hasn't been interested in books, which has been frustrating for me (an avid bookworm), so I started reading my copy that I saved, hoping for a little guidance.

This book, surprisingly, is very readable. The author has done and collaborated all sorts of research on the connection between kids reading and succeeding in school--and therefore, in life. Here are a few key points that Mr. Trelease touches on, expands on, and gives interesting and inspiring anecdotes about (with many simple ideas and tips thrown in along the way):

• Kids who aren't read to by their parents or primary caregivers usually don't like reading.
  
  
• Kids who don't like reading aren't good at reading--and the only way to get good at reading is to do it. Which they don't, because they don't like it.
  
  
• Kids who aren't good at reading have a MUCH, MUCH more difficult time succeeding in school, are more likely to drop out, and therefore are more likely to be incarcerated. (Most prison inmates are dropouts and have a low level of literacy, or are illiterate.)
  
  
• You can't start reading to your child too early.
  
  
• You pretty much can't read to your child too much.
  
  
• You don't need flashcards and expensive phonics programs to teach a child to read. You lay the groundwork for reading by reading to your child.

I tore myself away from the book in order to get on the library website and try to find more good audio books to download.

I really recommend reading this book, not just for parents, but for anyone. It's inspiring, enlightening, and motivating. I wish I was better at book reviews, but I'm doing my best. :) Maybe I should be more formal...

BUY THE BOOK!! IT'S AWESOME AND IT'LL TELL YOU HOW TO MAKE YOUR KIDS WAY SMART AND STUFF!!! :D

You can get it new for under $20 and used for around $10 (shipping included) on Amazon.
Take a look, read the book, and I promise you won't regret it!

And if you really just don't want to read the dang book, read aloud to your kids, have lots of printed materials available for them, and let them see you reading!