THE GIFT OF STORY: EXPLORING THE AFFECTIVE SIDE OF THE READING LIFE by John Schu

I've recently had an opportunity to read a unique and important book that I want to share with Smack Dab readers.Many writers in the KidLit community know of John Schu AKA "Mr. Schu". He's been a teacher, school librarian, and Ambassador of Children's Literature for Scholastic Book Fairs.

His love of literature for kids, passion for sharing his favorite books, and getting the right books into kids hands and hearts is one of his life missions.

John's own book, THE GIFT OF STORY: Exploring the Affective Side of the Reading Life (Stenhouse Publishers 2022) is a testimony and celebration of all the ways STORY impacts our lives.

This volume explores the AFFECTIVE side of reading. How story impacts lives beyond the pages.

It's divided into five sections: Story As: CLARIFIER

                                                                HEALER

                                                                INSPIRATION

                                                                COMPASSION

                                                                CONNECTOR

Each section contains quotes from authors as to what #StoryIs: 

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John also recommends many book titles in each section so teachers and librarians can put the right book into the right kids' hands.

As John says, "Teachers and librarians are in the business of taking care of hearts. We are in the business of listening. We are in the business of helping hearts grow and connect. When hearts connect, brains expand, and communities are healed."

What better way than through books that speak to a kid's heart. 

Although the volume is recommended for grades K-8, there is something for everyone in this book. As an author, it is eye-opening to hear accounts from teachers and librarians about how much an author's book has meant to students. How a story has changed a life. How words we use matter in ways big and small.

EVERY SCHOOL needs this book. EVERY AUTHOR should read this book. ANYONE who believes in the power of story to connect us, inspire us, heal us, needs this book.

Words matter. And OUR UNIQUE STORIES matter.

Each and everyone of us deserves to be heard.

Thank you John Schu for THE GIFT OF STORY!💖

www.mrschureads.blogspot.com

 

 

Darlene Beck Jacobson is inspired by so many books and can't imagine a life without them.