Hey-ho from merry England! It’s a dappled beauty of an evening and I’m working on the introduction to my “book on books”. That worthy activity led me to a rediscovery of some of the reserach I have done into reading and its effects on the minds of children. It’s just too good to be kept for later; I thought you might like to see it. The simple, amazing truth I’m finding is that reading literally will change the course of a child’s future simply by equipping him/her to be able to comprehend ideas and meaning. The other simple truth is that a good bit of technological media will inhibit that ability. There’s just no way around it. Here are a few of the best articles I found in my internet snooping. Reading really is essential to the forming of a mind you see, and this is essential reading on the subject of reading. Got it?
I wonder if you’ll find these as enlightening (and convicting and frightening) as I.
Reading at Risk. This was one of the largest studies every conducted into literacy in America. It was headed by Dana Gioia, director of the National Endowment of the Arts. I heard about this research when I attended a conference where Mr. Gioia spoke; his findings on literacy are literally astounding.
Endangered Minds. As I searched the web, a name that came up over and over again was that of Jane Healey, a professor and writer who has done extensive research into the impact of reading on the mind and life of a child. This is a sample chapter from her book.
Reading and the Matthew Effect. A fascinating explanation of research that indicates that children who are exposed to a high level of vocabulary (i.e., books, reading, reading aloud, etc.) in their beginning years of education will have the necessary brain skill to grasp knowledge in all areas of learning.
Shakespeare Smarts. Last, but not least, a slightly more enjoyable piece on the dramatic effect that the reading of Shakespeare has on the brain. I knew there must be a reason I felt more intelligent after seeing As You Like It performed last week!
So. Enjoy those tidbits. I’m working on posting some new reviews soon, so check back every now and then. And meanwhile…happy reading.
Sarah – I see the A Time to Keep by Tasha Tudor is your ‘book of the week.’ That is one of my very favorite children’s books. I remember paging through when I was a little girl and loving the detail of the pictures. I love T. Tudors illustrations.
Just wanted to say, “I love that book too!”
I also heard Dana Gioia speak here in Baltimore at a writer’s conference and his research was very interesting, so say the least.
I too wanted to say that I LOVE Tasha Tudor in general, but especially love “A Time to Keep.” Her illustrations are so beautiful and I’d copy them into my sketchbook.
Just wanted to drop a line to say that I love your blog page! It is inspiring and beautiful. Thanks for your diligence in adding beauty to our reading experience. I look forward to visiting the links you mention.
Hi Sarah ~ Mother of a sweet 2 year old who loves reading. I am enjoying your blog very much.
I have a question for you. The beautiful illustration that you posted to go along with this post, does it have name? Where can I find this print?
Thanks.
Jessica