Planet Esme

http://www.planetesme.com/fun.html
“Teacher tested, Kid approved!”

This page is inspired by Esme Codell’s wonderfully insightful book:
How to Get Your Child to Love Reading.

Click on the book to learn more about what makes it so special.

Biography

“Esme Raji Codell runs the popular children’s literature Web site PlanetEsme.com. She is the author of the best-selling Educating Esme, which won ForeWord magazine’s Memoir of the Year and the distinguished Alex Award for Outstanding Book for Young Adult Readers, and Sahara Special, a novel for children. Her public-radio reading earned first place for national education reporting from the Education Writers Association. She has been a classroom teacher, school librarian, and children’s bookseller. She lives in Chicago with her husband and son.”

Author/Illustrator Study
http://www.planetesme.com/authorstudy/authorstudy.html

Storytelling
http://www.planetesme.com/storytelling.html

Poetry Power
http://www.planetesme.com/poems.html

Book Esme
http://www.planetesme.com/bookesme.html

Madame Esme’s Reading Recommendations
http://www.planetesme.com/recommend.html

Read Aloud Tips
http://www.planetesme.com/hints.html

Storytime Central ~ Booklists
http://www.planetesme.com/storytimecentral.html

Birth – Age 3 and Emergent Literacy
http://www.planetesme.com/bookbasket.html

Quotes

“Reading is one small thing we can do every day that could change our country.” ~Esme

“Keep in mind that this progression from possessing information to taking action, evern when it means that your child is defying the status quo, represents the link between literacy and informed citizenry.” ~Esme

“No lost luggage. No suspicious airline food. No jet lag. Your child’s library card is the only ticket he will need to book a trip around the world!” ~Esme

“The more you read, the better you get at it; the better you get at it, the more you like it; and the more you like it, the more you do it.” ~Jim Trelease

“Love, like literacy, is a great source of strength. And, like literacy, it is a gift we can give our children that never goes away.” ~Esme

“Let’s focus on offering our children the best of what we have.” ~Esme

“While the content of reading may be as whimsical as we choose, the skill of reading is one that will bolster any child’s ability in the more hard-boiled subjects of math, science, and technology.” ~Esme

“It is each our own job to keep ourselves interested in the world.” ~Esme

“A good poem, like a good rock, is a diamond and a miracle in both its creation and location.” ~Esme

“It is this combination of work and imagination that powers the creative process.” ~Esme

“Young or old, everyone can begin a legacy of literacy in their own families and communities. It all starts with reading aloud.” ~Esme

“It is clear now more than ever that our children are going to need the critical thinking skills, information, tolerance and empathy fostered by literacy. Daily read-aloud also fulfills an emotional need of your child, to be close and to feel safe, and to have the chance to discuss things that may be on your child's mind. In stories, children can see conflicts resolved and be reassured that even the biggest fear or foe can be overcome through love, contemplation and bravery. Through reading, children can also find comfort and escape. The best new children's literature is available at bookstores, libraries and here on-line. We are very fortunate in this country to have these resources so readily available for our children. Take advantage and take heart!” ~Esme

Check it out at the West Iron District Library

Buy the book

Visit the Planet Esme Bookroom