Tuesday Blurbs: DIY Literacy and Reading Projects

Most folks don’t come back to read comments, so I’m turning a comment from yesterday’s literacy and reading news roundup into this post.

Liza, from the Volunteer USA Foundation, told us about a project to collect books for readers in need. The Teen Trendsetters Reading Mentors in Ocala, FL, are collecting gently-used Magic Tree House books. Their goal? 25,000 new and used copies of the books in the series. When I visited the Foundation’s website, I particularly loved this idea “Your child might consider writing a personal message in the book to share with the next spellbound reader.” If you don’t have any Magic Treehouse books, you can donate $5 or more so we may purchase new books for children. Visit the website for details.

Today at Booklights, I have a post about keeping your reading tradition alive, even if you can’t cuddle up with your favorite audience. By creating an audio version of a your child’s favorite book, you can share a story with them, even if you aren’t there. I know YOU know I’m talking about creating an audio version strictly for personal use, but it never hurts to put it in writing.  I’d love to hear your ideas about great bedtime stories for long-distance read alouds.