Garrison Keillor
I have been a teacher, book reviewer, business owner and public relations director at different times throughout my life, but the most difficult (and rewarding ) job I ever faced was motherhood. From the moment my son was put into my arms, right through last night when he called with a problem (he is now a successful Psychologist) I knew that I would give him my heart (figuratively and literally) if he needed it. Then two years later his amazing sister was born, and I realized my one heart was not enough. How could I give them everything they needed to become warm and successful human beings? I think Hillary was correct when she said it takes a village, and Brad Meltzer took her lead and wrote two great books several years ago. I reviewed one of them, Heroes for My Son, in today's postings. He followed that book with Heroes for My Daughter, another winner in my estimation.
Yes, books have always been gifts in my eyes, because they take me on journeys, teach me about things I don't know and guide me through the trials and tribulations of life. That is why I have spent my life trying to share the wonder of these gifts with family, friends and students. When a student says he/she doesn't like to read, I explain that he/she just hasn't found the right book, yet.
I came up with an idea to use this blog to motivate electronically inclined Y.A.'s to read. Some of my teacher friends have offered extra credit to students who read a book and review it on madderlyreview.com. They subscribe the first time they log on, and when they send in the review I let them know when it is published. They show it to the teacher for extra credit. We are also working on a summer program so students who have to do summer reading can discuss the books on this site. Please contact me if you are interested, and if you know any teachers who might be interested, please pass this on.
Don’t forget, if you subscribe before May 15th, your name will be entered into our drawing for a $25 Amazon gift card. There is no cost or responsibility to subscribe, and it helps me. I also want to thank those of you who are sending in reviews. You are helping to build this into an interactive site for everyone to enjoy.
Have a wonderful May filled with fun, flowers and oh so many GREAT READING MOMENTS.
- Beverly