Readers enjoy talking about books almost as much as they like reading.

When we meet and I discover that we have read and loved the same books, we are instant friends.

I realized that every lesson, conference, response, and assignment I taught must lead students away from me and toward their autonomy as literate people.

Our children shouldn't have to wait for adulthood to become wild readers. For many, it will be too late.

I never tell students they cannot read a book they pick up, but I do guide them toward books that I think would be a good fit for them. I think of myself as a reading mentor-a reader who can help them find books they might like.

Books are love letters (or apologies) passed between us, adding a layer of conversation beyond our spoken words.

The purpose of schools should not be to prepare students for more school. We should be seeking to have fully engaged students now