Module Two: Related Blog

The following entry is taken from Caroline Starr Rose's blog Caroline by Line on Writing, Reading, and Waiting, which I located using GoogleBlog. This site does not offer an RSS feed, but can be located by clicking on the following link:

Caroline by Line

Citation

Rose, Caroline Starr. (2009). Connecting with other readers: Fourth and fifth-grade book club. Retrieved January 28, 2009 from http://carolinebyline.blogspot.com/2009/10/connecting-with-other-readers-fourth.html

Connecting With Other Readers: Fourth and Fifth-Grade Book Club

One of the reasons I love reading (and writing, for that matter,) is the opportunity to connect with others beyond myself. Stories are meant for sharing. I love recommending books. It's like introducing two people you know are meant to be friends.

That's why it's so important for all of us, but especially children just starting to "own" their reading, to discuss, share, and explore literature with others. I could feel the energy in the air yesterday (silliness, too) as my fourth and fifth-graders came to discuss Pedro's Journal, a mid-grade historical novel about a (ficitonal) boy who sailed on the Santa Maria during Columbus's first voyage. Not all of them liked it, but all of them came with something to say.

Stories create worlds, characters, and circumstances bigger than ourselves. They point out what it means to be human. It is so key to share these things, making meaning beyond ourselves. I love that kids love this. I love that I get to be a part of the process. Thank you to everyone who fosters reading in the young -- parents, teachers, librarians, volunteers, writers, readers, dreamers. Your efforts make a difference.

Review

Caroline Starr Rose's blog covers a wide array of topics focused on young adult literature, both reading and writing. This blog piqued my interest for several reasons. First, as a current fourth grade teacher, I am priveleged to observe the amazing connections and friendships children can develop based on literature. Reading brings out such emotion and curiosity in young people; it is inspiring to witness. Secondly, as a future elementary school librarian, I have a goal of developing voluntary book clubs for students. I believe that when children dialogue about literature with peers, they have the opportunity to develop relationships and engage in communication that departs from the usual surface level discussions young people become so accustomed to. Literature allows children to escape reality and use their imaginations and higher level thinking skills to create meaningful connections.