READ WITH ME The Power of Reading and How it Transforms Our Lives

Probing the painful and recurring themes in the lives of functional illiterates, this investigation into the miracle of reading provides a blueprint for fighting the national tragedy of illiteracy

The national problem of illiteracy assumes a human face in this testament to the value of words from the editor of Parade magazine, who is also a member of the National Advisory Board of Literacy Volunteers of America. Acknowledging personal acquaintance with the empowerment of literacy--"Books helped me to imagine myself out of a slum when I was a boy, away from fear and pain"--he presents often touching anecdotes of adults who finally learned to read, of tutors and of such prominent figures as dancer Jacques D'Amboise and Wally "Famous" Amos of cookie renown who have joined the crusade for literacy. Anderson notes that the problem is larger than the resources for its resolution and is realistic about the role of literacy as a means, not an end. This collection of inspirational narratives is a call to action. First serial to Ladies Home Journal.
Copyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.

This book is a sensitive and moving account of the many aspects of language and literacy. Anderson discusses the beginnings of the spoken word and the structure of the alphabet, as well as the current literacy initiatives including Laubach Literacy Action and Literacy Volunteers of America. A major portion of the book is devoted to telling the inspirational stories of several adult new readers and their tutors, relating not only the joys and rewards of learning to read, but the frustrations, setbacks, and failures that often occur. Anderson concludes with chapters on the power of words and written language to inspire, condemn, and foster hate as well as tolerance. Read with Me will be of interest to tutors, adult new readers, and those who wish to know more about the impact of the literacy movement on our society.
- Bonnie John son, Montana State Univ. Lib., Bozeman
Copyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.