Largely due to my son’s prodding, our family actually went to see the film, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, on the day it opened. Though it was exciting and fast-paced, my son felt let down because so much from the book was left out or adapted for the movie version.

My son, of course, had to reread …Phoenix (Scholastic) before seeing the film, so the book was very fresh to him. Still, his position is that of several movie critics .

But what about using film as book bait especially during the summer? Or making connections between movies, television shows, and reading?

Deciding which TV program or movie involves making choices and reading (e.g., newspapers, TV show guides, and reviews). Doing this with your kids can start a fine shared experience, leading them back to the world of books.

About the Author

Maria Salvadore is Reading Rockets’ consultant for children’s literature and literacy. Maria curates our themed booklists and writes the blog, Page by Page, which explores the best ways to use kids’ books both inside and outside of the classroom. She leads parent workshops for Ready To Learn (RTL) at WETA Public Broadcasting in Washington, D.C. She has also taught children’s literature at the University of Maryland, reviewed books for School Library Journal, and has served on various book award committees, including the Boston Globe/Horn Book Awards, Golden Kite, and the Caldecott Committee.

Publication Date
July 12, 2007
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