One of my favorite quotes is from Miss Freida J. Riley, teacher of Homer Hickham. "All I've done is give you a book. You have to have the courage to learn what's inside it." Mr. Hickham quotes Miss Riley in his book, Rocket Boys. He recalls the influence she had on his life when he was a young boy. When she made this statement, she had just given him a book on rockets. The rest is history.
The truth in Miss Riley's quote speaks to me on many levels. It's not just about the books we give them. It is the opportunities we provide. These opportunities are critical. They can make all the difference in the life of a child.
I accept the challenge to give my students "a book." More than that, I accept the challenge and responsibility for helping them develop the courage to "learn what's inside..."
A beautiful title and wonderful philosophy. Media Specialists must continue to encourage our students to enjoy the "printed" book. Audiobooks and ebooks are the new fade in literary entertainment. However, there is nothing like being able to turn the page of a "real" good book.
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