From Reader to Writer: Teaching Writing Through Classic Children's Books - Softcover

Ellis, Sarah

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0888994400 ISBN 13: 9780888994400

Publisher: Groundwood Books, 2001

Synopsis

As a child, Sarah Ellis made up plenty of stories but could never think of any when called upon in school. As an adult, she discovered a way to encourage children to express their creativity. The result is From Reader to Writer, a trove of suggestions and activities that use classic children’s literature to inspire and liberate kids’ imaginations. Each of the 17 chapters consists of an intriguing anecdote about an author, from Louisa May Alcott to Susan Cooper, that describes their childhood, what they read, and the sources for their books. Each anecdote leads into a writing activity, which can range from simple to sophisticated and can be adapted to different classroom situations. Letter and journal writing, wordplay, fantasy and riddles, and “story-starter” ideas are among the entertaining and original techniques for encouraging a young person to take up a pen and start writing.

About this title

Reviews

The title does not adequately describe the wealth of information and inspiration included here. Yes, the book will certainly be useful for creative-writing activities; however, librarians will be thrilled with the connections that can be made from the books cited and unique ways to introduce their authors, ranging from C. S. Lewis and Lewis Carroll to Katherine Paterson and Monica Hughes. Beginning with endpapers that illustrate "The Book Wide Web," Ellis invites her audience to "inspire reading, writing, and/or talking" about books. Each chapter focuses on a specific writer. Through anecdotes, the personalities and events that helped shape these authors' professional lives are revealed. Librarians will be able to use the information for booktalking. All of the activities can build toward writing projects, but they also create interest in the books. Be certain teachers know about this title; they will make good use of the variety of ideas.
Mary Lankford, Texas Education Agency, Austin
Copyright 2001 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Edition details

• Publisher: Groundwood Books
• Publication date: 2001
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0888994400
• ISBN 13: 9780888994400
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 176