A book review of Reading Magic: Why Reading Aloud to Our Children Will Change Their Lives Forever by Mem Fox
Stars: ****
Harper Paperbacks (2008)
Education>Reading
208 pages
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.
Summary: In this revised and updated edition of Reading Magic, bestselling author and literacy expert Mem Fox reveals the incredible emotional and intellectual impact reading aloud to children has on their ability to learn to read.
With passion and humor, Fox speaks of when, where, and why to read aloud and demonstrates how to read aloud to best effect and get the most out of a read-aloud session. She discusses the three secrets of reading, offers guidance on defining and choosing good books, and — for this edition — includes two chapters on boy readers and phonics, a foreword, and a list of “Twenty Books That Children Love.”
Filled with practical advice, activities, and inspiring true read-aloud miracles, Reading Magic is a turn-to classic for educators and parents who would like to know more about how children learn to read — and how we can instill in them a lifelong love of books.
Reading Magic
I had wanted to read aloud to my children for a while but had never gotten started. Now that I’m homeschooling, reading aloud is part of our day, every day. I recently read The Read Aloud Handbook which was highly recommended as was this one.
Although they are both about reading aloud, they are quite different. So, I’m glad I read both. I recommend you read them both. But if you will only read one, then here is my suggestion. If you want advice and suggestions for reading aloud to kids of any age, even teens, I recommend The Read Aloud Handbook. If your child is still learning how to read, I recommend Reading Magic.
Why? This book doesn’t just go over why reading aloud is good, it offers suggestions on why and how to read aloud to benefit your child who is learning to read. It doesn’t say you can’t read to older kids but it’s focus is definitely reading aloud to teach literacy.
Both authors use studies to back up what they are saying. Mem Fox, who also happens to author some GREAT picture books, knows what the is talking about.
Buy Reading Magic at Amazon.com and help support the blog.
Find Reading Magic at Goodreads.
About Kathleen
