We all hope and expect our children will learn to read, but how many of us realize we can get our kids on the road to reading simply by reading aloud to them every day? With passion and humor, Mem Fox explains why reading aloud to young children has such an impact on their ability to read—and on their entire lives. Writing as an ordinary mother as well as a bestselling author and internationally respected literacy expert, Fox explores when and where to read aloud and demonstrates with clear, easy-to-follow examples how to read aloud to best effect and how to get the most value and joy out of a read-aloud session. Filled with practical advice, activities, and inspiring true read-aloud miracles, this audiobook is a must for every parent—and for anyone who would like to know more about how children learn to read.
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"A great, fast-paced, commonsense book. My favorite quotation: "Experiencing this heightened level of emotion through literature is seen by some squeamish parents and educators as a Bad Thing. But child psychologists disagree. The whole point of books is to allow us to experience trouble realities that are different from our own, to feel the appropriate emotions, to empathize, to make judgments, and to have our interest held. If we sanitize everything children read, how much more shocking and confusing will the reall world be when they finally have to face it?" (p.142)."
— Heidi (4 out of 5 stars)
Fox writes with a light touch, going straight to the heart of preschool concerns with affection and wit.
— The New York Times Book Review" good points "
— Julie, 2/9/2014" Noted children's author Mem Fox brings together personal anecdotes and research to show the importance of reading to children. As a person who grew up in a reading household and raised reader children, it all seems obvious to me, but I have bought a copy for an immigrant friend who has not yet started to read to her two-year-old, believing he is too young and will learn English better from Nickelodean. This is an important book that may not get into the hands of those who need it most. Otherwise, Fox is just preaching to the choir. "
— Anne, 2/3/2014" More accessible perhaps then The Read Aloud Handbook which I do enjoy. A bit self promoting but I went and checked out some of her kids books and they are cute. Makes many good points about HOW to read aloud so that its more enjoyable. Reading aloud so its enjoyable for all is a skill. And it is so important and this book is a big reminder of how we can do it well. My kids love it when I read aloud to them and I have learned to enjoy it more too and make it more FUN! "
— Malina, 1/31/2014" Books are everywhere for my children, so I didn't think I needed this book, but I did. I learned a lot about different ways to read, different kinds of reading, and different ways of teaching children to read. Funny and educational, without seeming pretentious. "
— Kristin, 1/28/2014" I have always read to my children, but it helps to have a reminder of how important it is and some new ideas for how to do it. "
— Lori, 1/24/2014" So good that I am buying a copy for myself! "
— Angela, 1/21/2014" I read this several years ago and loved it--but now it's a little more applicable, since I have kids of my own. So good and so important, I think--I recommend it to any parent. "
— Kelsie, 1/11/2014" Enjoyed reading this one. Quite a few good tips for reading with kids! :) "
— Grumpy72, 1/8/2014" Every parent, teacher, librarian, and anyone interested in helping children love to read should read this book. Great research in a digestible and fun format. "
— Leigh, 12/20/2013" not quite what I was looking for in terms of a literacy resource. "
— Polly, 12/17/2013" This is a great book about reading aloud to your kids. It helps you to see how beneficial it really is! "
— Michelle, 12/7/2013Mem Fox is the author of many acclaimed books, including Ten Little Fingers and Ten Little Toes, Possum Magic, Koala Lou, Time for Bed, and, for adults, Reading Magic: Why Reading Aloud to Our Children Will Change Their Lives Forever. She lives in Adelaide, Australia.