Parent Resource: The Read Aloud Handbook by Jim Trelease

Many of you may be familiar with The Read-Aloud Handbook by Jim Trelease. It has been in publication for over 30 years. It was, in fact, one of the first books recommended to me when I began teaching almost thirteen years ago. The information in it is timeless and I still refer to this book when I am in need of solid research related to reading aloud, or to help me as I parent my two children. I have begun to give it as a gift to friends who have new babies. If it were up to me, every new parent would leave the hospital with a copy in their hands.

In his sixth edition (2006), Trelease:

• Explains how reading aloud awakens children’s imaginations and improves their language skills
• Shows how to begin reading aloud and which books to choose
• Suggests ways to create reader-friendly homes, classrooms, and library environments
• Gives tips on luring children away from the television
• Shows how to integrate silent reading with read-aloud sessions
• Shares valuable lessons from Oprah’s Book Club, the Harry Potter books, and the Internet
• Includes a brand-new chapter of stories and testimonials from parents and teachers
• Offers an up-to-date treasury of 1,000 books that are great for reading aloud – from picture books to novels – and highlights some of Trelease’s favorites by theme: friendship, sports, dogs, fairy-tale parodies, and more.

This book is a treasure and must read for all parents who want to engage their children in reading. And if this isn’t enough, Jim Trelease also has his own website where he continues to share information on reading aloud for parents, educators, librarians – really anyone who wants a child to make books into friends, not enemies.
Dawn Little (aka Links to Literacy) also blogs at www.teachingwithpicturebooks.wordpress.com where she provides educators with picture book lessons based on comprehension strategies and the Six Traits of Writing.  In addition, she blogs at www.literacytoolbox.wordpress.com where she provides educators and parents with tips and tools to enhance the literacy lives of children.  She is the founder and owner of Links to Literacy, a company dedicated to providing interactive literacy experiences for children and families.  Find out more at www.linkstoliteracy.com