Author: Jennie Nash

 ISBN 0312315341 (non-fiction/child care - 9/10)

The following review was contributed by: Paul Lappen & CLICK TO VIEW Paul Lappen's Reviews

 Teaching a child to read, and getting that child to
like reading, can be one of the most frustrating, and
heartwarming, jobs for any parent. This book looks at
one family's journey through such a process.

One of a parent's biggest wishes for their child is
that they find something about which they are
passionate, something on which they can build a life.
For the parent, there is a fine line between passion
and obsession, a line that is easy to cross.

It's hard to instill a love of books if the children
don't have access to them. Regularly bring them to the
local library, and let them take out a lot of books.
If Child 2 doesn't progress in reading at the same
rate as did Child 1, don't panic. Everyone progresses
at their own speed.

Another way to instill a love of books is to set aside
a reading period during the day. While the child reads
a book, the parent should sit and read an adult book.
The child will probably enter a phase in which they
are interested in what the parent considers the
children's literature equivalent of trash. Again,
don't panic; they'll grow out of it.

Have faith in your child, especially if they are
progressing too "slowly." Encouragement that the
pieces will eventually fall into place is better than
pushing. Realize that your children are individuals
with different styles of reading.

Also included is a long list of reading suggestions
for children of all ages. This book is a gem. It's
very down to earth, and any parent can identify with
it. For those parents worried that their child isn't
reading "fast enough," take a deep breath, then read
this book. It's time very well spent.