I believe that reading is the single most important skill one can acquire. When I was a child, twice a week I walked to the bookmobile (library on wheels) that came to our Heights Plaza Shopping Center. The librarian became a friend, and she hand selected books that she knew would pique my interest. She never disappointed. Because of my love for reading, I did not experience that "summer slide" in education that plagues so many students.
I saw a piece on the TODAY SHOW this morning about the author of the GOOSEBUMPS series, R. L. Stine. His books are aimed at an audience of 7-11 year olds. In case you do not know, Stine has written over 300 books in the series, and sold more than 400 million books! The books have also inspired 2 movies and a television show. Mr. Stine says that although technology has changed, fear of the dark, lurking monsters, being somewhere new, and being lost have not changed, so kids still enjoy his books.
Watching this interview with R. L. Stine prompted me to write this blog. If you are the parent, aunt, uncle, or grandparent of a child 7-11 years old, and if they have not experienced any of the GOOSEBUMPS books, help them to discover a new love for reading! Not only will their reading skills improve, you will help to stop their brains from falling into the dreaded "summer slide." Time spent reading is never a waste of time, and time with a book makes for less time on electronic devices. You would be fostering a love for reading and lifelong learning, two pastimes that I strongly endorse. Reading is the most important skill for success.
If you would like to see the charming interview with R. L. Stine, here is the link:
Visit Dede's web page for complete details on her award-winning book, STUDENT TEACHING: THE INSIDE SCOOP FROM A MASTER TEACHER. Many colleges have made the book required reading. Signed copies are available www.dederittman.com Dede is also a national speaker on The Three C's for Classroom success: Confidence, communication, and Creativity; Avoiding Teacher burnout; and many other inspirational topics.
I LOVE writing. And I love writing children's books- my newest passion. Although it will be a ton of work, I am looking forward to selling my books. Since I was a secondary teacher, I know that I have much to learn about elementary students, and I will have to follow my own advice and be my genuine self. However, I also know that I am passionate about helping kids who have to wear glasses, and that GRADY GETS GLASSES sends a positive message. I am willing to work hard and do all the things that also made me a successful teacher for 37
Teacher friends- let me know if you want me to read GRADY GETS GLASSES at your school. I am willing to come in to discuss the creative writing process, why writing is important, and personal fulfillment through writing, along with reading my book. I would appreciate the exposure, and I would make signed copies available for purchase in your classrooms following the reading. Please email me at dederittman@gmail.com The website www.gradygetsglasses.com now has plush Grady bunnies for sale!
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Twitter @dederittman
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