Going to the Movies

Dear Reader-

Yesterday I went to see the Shrek III with my son and child that I tutor. I think that I enjoyed the movie more than they did because I am a sucker for fairy tales. What can be better to once upon a time. . . and they lived happily ever after? Poor Shrek just did not see the importance of his life, and just wanted to do what he pleases without any responsibilities. How many of us have had those same thoughts?

Now that best part of yesterday was the frozen custard. It has been hot, and the sweet, cool, rich frozen dessert, just makes the heat a little more bearable. While we were enjoying our treats, we engaged in a lively discussion about the movie. Of course we all had different perspectives and thoughts as to what we felt about the characters, their motives, and the big idea of the movie. We were able to take more about of the movie experience by discussing it, and bringing those characters to life. Isn't this what we should be doing with books? If we are to get our students excited about reading, we should bring these experiences to life. Reading is not about just going through the process, but stirring our emotions, and maybe viewing the world in a different light.

If I could have this same discussion about a book with these reluctant and struggling readers, would they enjoy the experience more? Would they get hooked into a good book and taste its sweetness?

-Maria Creighton