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

Failing to graduate a populace that values reading has long-term consequences for everyone.

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

Although I enjoy digging through the library to help students find books, my aim is to help them develop self-confidence in choosing books for themselves.

Exposing students to lots of books and positive reading experiences while building a network of other readers who support each other provides students with tools that last beyond the classroom setting.

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.

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