Reluctant Readers: Book Stacks

As reading teachers, we are often faced with the reluctant reader.  We often struggle with how to turn our reluctant readers into “TRUE” readers who enjoy literature and get joy out of reading. Recently, I have found a tactic that seems to be successful for me time and time again.  I like to call it “Book Stacks”.  With this tactic, which I stumbled upon while reading The Book Whisperer, I gather up a collection of books (3-5) for my reluctant readers based upon their interests.  I use the reading interest inventories they created at the start of school year, along with the information I have gathered on them as a reader, in order to pull together a stack of books to promote literacy.  Then, I place the books on their desk and share with them that I gathered up some books that  I thought they might be interested in reading.  Depending upon the student, I sometimes take a moment and share a little about each book with them and then I walk away to give them time to review the books.  Other times, I simply tell them I was thinking about them I thought they might be interested in these books.  I tend to mix it up based upon their personalities and their needs.  Either way, I have found the “Book Stacks” to be highly beneficial.  Often, the students select a book the very first time I provide them with a “Book Stack”.  They then come back and ask for more.  Other times, I provide the “Book Stack” two or three times, but within a few tries it takes and they are HOOKED.  In addition, “Book Stacks” help to build a stronger rapport with my students.  It’s a WIN WIN!

Using Reading Interest Inventories to Foster Reading

Many books, and authors, mention using an interest inventory to assist us with this process.  In the past, I have used inventories to collect data and information on my students, but it was not until recently that I figured out exactly how to utilize these inventories to truly promote reading throughout the school year in my classroom.

At the start of the school, my students all created a personalized book cover (see image below).  The students decorated the cover of the book with various authors, books and illustrations that represent their “HISTORY” as a reader and their passions towards reading.  Inside the book cover the students completed a reading interest inventory.

Once the personalized book covers were complete I then used the covers as a catalyst for discussion at our first individualized reading conference.  I took notes, asked questions and listened.  I was also able to immediately visit our classroom library with them to recommend a variety of books they may be interested in reading throughout the school year based off of what I learned.  It was really a powerful and IMPORTANT conference.  Following the conference, I placed their book cover into a plastic sleeve to keep in my data binder for the year in order to refer to when applicable.

Using the inventories in a more purposeful, and long term, manner has truly helped me get to know my students so that I am able more able to promote reading.

Freedom to READ

The one aspect of reading that has remained consistent throughout my years as an educator is my passion for reading.  Each day I teach, I look forward to reading aloud great books to my students and providing them with the opportunity to read, read, and read.  I have found that one of the most important gifts I can give to my students is the FREEDOM to read the books that spark their interest.  Of course, I also have the ability to teach them how to select “Good Fit” books and expose them to powerful literature.  There is nothing more rewarding then opening up a child’s eyes to a book that perfectly fits their needs and interests as a reader.  That spark that ignites in them is priceless and it is truly the reason I teach.
When I think about what book has impacted me most as an educator, the book that instantly comes to mind is The Book Whisperer by Donalyn Miller.  The Book Whisperer was by far the most powerful, and confirming, book I have ever read. Below is a quote from her book that truly resonated with me:

“You see, my students are not just strong, capable readers; they LOVE books and reading.  Building lifelong learners has to start here.  Anyone who calls herself or himself a reader can tell you that it starts with encountering great books, heartfelt recommendations and a community of readers who share this passion.  A TRAIL OF WORKSHEETS FROM A TEACHER TO THEIR STUDENTS DOES NOT BUILD A CONNECTION WITH READERS, ONLY BOOKS DO.”  –Donalyn Miller, The Book Whisperer

Towards the end of her book she states that something in education needs to change.  She says, “There needs to be more of us, and we need to get a lot louder.”  This section of the book continually runs through my mind, and it is this section that inspired me to utilize this blog.  I truly believe that we must foster reading and work together to promote a passion for literature within our students so they may have richer lives.  Therefore, the goal of this blog is to communicate with other educators who share this belief as well so we can collectively get LOUDER for the sake of our students.