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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.

Overcoming the odds

January 30, 2014

Everyone knows the story of how Helen Keller's tenacity (and the help of a special teacher) overcame her disabilities. Most know that President Franklin Delano Roosevelt, who led the nation during depression and war, had polio. Blindness hasn't stopped Stevie Wonder from topping pop music charts nor did it prevent Dr. Katherine Schnieder from obtaining a Ph.D. to become a noted psychologist. More >

Words worth remembering

January 15, 2014

Today is Martin Luther King's actual birthday. The celebrations that will take place on the national holiday are sure to include various renditions of the song that has become associated with the Civil Rights Movement, “We Shall Overcome." More >

A tradition worth keeping

January 13, 2014

How long does it take for tradition to take hold? I'm not sure there's an easy answer but a fairly recent program seems to have caught on and I hope becomes a tradition that lasts for generations. More >

What's on your list?

December 20, 2013

It's holiday gift giving time. I made my shopping easier this year as I decided just about everyone on my list will get lasting gifts — books, of course! What's baby or toddlerhood without Mother Goose rhymes? More >

A wide divide

December 5, 2013

Have you ever thought of how the digital world influences us — and by extension, our children? A number of recent articles made me rethink access, about the use and popularity of digital books by young readers (and their parents), and about what and how is presented in them in both mediums. More >

A boy, a birthday, and a fresh take on a bunny book

November 18, 2013

Books always make terrific gifts, but it's possible that kids don't always like the books adults think are charming. A recent book brings that point home with laugh out loud humor. Plus a book that makes even experienced readers check twice to make sure that it has been untouched by an aspiring child-artist. More >