As I quickly settle into summer break I am excited that a few of the book studies I want to participate in have started. Today we are starting to discuss The Book Whisperer by Donalyn Miller. If you have a copy read through Chapter 1 and join in on the fun!
As I read Chapter 1 I instantly connected with Donalyn Miller. As she described her love of reading I could totally relate. I LOVE to read. Growing up I always had my nose in a book. I grew up reading Goosebumps, Babysitter’s Club, and Boxcar Children. As I reflect on my childhood I can vividly remember going to the mall each month with my Mom to “collect” the newest Goosebumps book by R.L. Stine. I would read it ever so carefully not to bend the spine and then display it on my bookshelf in my room. My bookshelf was my prized possession. All my books were perfectly placed and arranged by author, I was so proud.
I also thought when I started teaching I would show my enthusiasm for reading and it would rub off on the children magically. I was wrong, so very wrong…
Throughout Chapter 1 Donalyn Miller takes us through her journey of a new teacher wanting to instill her love of reading into each and every one of her students. She quickly realizes that her well thought out reading plans are not the way to truly motivate her students.
Through the guidance of colleagues as well as professional books she starts to realize that students need the power of choice when practicing their reading and writing skills. In order for students to truly have those take away moments and be self motivated to read, they need time to work through books. Donalyn starts to run her reading time as a workshop. She wants to teach her students the strategies and then allow her students time to work through their books and practice their skills. She feels as though she is on the right track, however there is more work to be done…
If you are interested in linking up check out Literacy and Lattes for the graphic. We will be exploring Chapter 2 on June 18. Also, click on the blogs below to learn more about Chapter 1. Thanks for stopping by, Happy Reading!
