WHEN THE READING LIGHT WENT ON

As far back as I can remember, there were always lots of books in my home. My parents read to me early on. Books were all around my toys; they were probably my favorite toys. I loved being read to and pretending to read when I was very young. I have two brothers and I enjoyed reading with them and watching them read.

When I was really young, my parents ordered magazines for me. I used to look forward to getting the mail. Reading is just an exciting way to learn new things. My parents used to point out signs on the roads to try to get me to read new things.

It was always a special treat when my parents read to me. I liked poetry books and the stories of “The Little Prince” and “Make Way for Ducklings.” I saved the books. I read them to my daughter, who’s now 14. I read to her from the time she was born. She has also developed a love for reading. My house now is filled with books. I probably collect more than I can get to.

You get a sense of comfort from knowing that you can pick up a book and take a journey anywhere. Reading has opened the doors to a lot of things, like the love I have for writing. I keep a journal and I love to write down my thoughts. It’s been comforting to me at times when I’ve been stressed out.

I still frequent Barnes & Noble and immediately head to the children’s section. As a principal, I go to classes to read to the students and try to spark excitement in them. The best way to get children to read is through modeling. I try to get the children to see adults read so they can model them. It goes a lot further than words.

Reading is like a never-ending story. It’s a lifelong gift you can give to a child.