Blogs About Reading

Page by Page

Maria Salvadore

Reading Rockets' children's literature expert, Maria Salvadore, brings you into her world as she explores the best ways to use kids' books both inside — and outside — of the classroom.

What books do best

March 16, 2012

Books entertain, educate, inform, engage, and more more than we may realize. Readers meet others and see themselves in them. They may feel validated, see change, or may be changed by a book. More >

I was one. So was my sister. We did lots of things in Girl Scouts, but what I remember most is summer day camp and selling cookies — door to door — and having a good time with other kids. I don't remember being taught anything specifically, though I learned a lot. We were part of a Girl Scout troop where learning was engaging and part of all activities. More >

Reading across America

March 2, 2012

Today is Read Across America Day! It celebrates the Doctor's birthday (Dr. Seuss, that is) and the joy he created with his wonderful imagination. More >

How stories relate to their readers

February 24, 2012

There has been lots of interest in what's next for J.K. Rowling, famous author of the Harry Potter series, though it seems likely that Harry Potter will live on in audio, print, and DVD for the next generation to enjoy. That's the thing about good stories — they continue to be fresh regardless of when they were created. More >

Why getting out matters

February 17, 2012

I remember many years ago sharing a book with photographs by Bruce MacMillan with a group of inner-city preschool children. They were bright and vivacious and eager to share what they knew. More >

Libraries and the achievement gap

February 10, 2012

Is the growing gap in children's achievement primarily fueled by economics? What other factors may have a role in it — and how can the apparent trend be reversed? More >