We have books in almost every room in our home. It wasn’t a conscious decision…just a reflection on the importance we place on learning and imagination.
And, in all fairness, when it comes to my husband’s ugly computer books…I like to decorate by hiding them in plain sight too.
My grandma was a first grade teacher and she retired before I would have been in her class, but she didn’t stop teaching in retirement. No. She taught me how to read before I started school. To say she gave me the greatest gift is an understatement. Reading unlocks all the world’s possibilities for a child.
That’s why this TED Talk given by children’s author Mac Barnett had me drinking the kool-aid. The talk was titled “Why a Good Book is a Secret Door.”
You need to stop reading this post right now and watch it. He’s hilarious and thought-provoking. Two of my favorite combinations.
I was so intrigued by what he said that I bought his children’s book
Guys, I am one tough cynic. I don’t purchase things on a lark. I scoff at blatant commercialism.
Yet, I was so intrigued by his insights and the secret door he wrote into Billy Twitters and His Blue Whale Problem
He discusses this hidden gem in his TED Talk, so I won’t give it away. Besides, he’s a much better storyteller. I’ll give you a hint though. If your kids take off the jacket cover, there’s something they can do to get their very own blue whale.
If that freaks you out, listen to the TED Talk. You’ll see why this idea is brilliant, engaging and just a little off-the-wall for corporate America. And I love that.
It makes me so happy to see my children willingly pick up a book. My oldest is definitely a bookworm and I hope my youngest will become one too. Now, if they would just hurry up and take the jacket cover off the book already…
Hey Kids! Look what Mommy found!
Here are some other book posts!
Books My Kids Are Reading Part 7
Two Children’s Books That Made My Eyes Leak