Childhood Reading Adventures and my Grandma


      As a child, I was always an avid reader. I accredit my love of reading to my grandma who would dedicate time every day to read books with me and my sisters. Even before I could read I loved spending that intentional time with her and loved the enthusiasm she had for reading. 

    After I learned to read I was in love with the Nancy Drew books. At my grandma's house, she had a full bookshelf dedicated to the series. I would sometimes read out loud and try to talk like my grandma would when she read books to us, changing voices for every character, and always enthusiastic. The Nancy Drew series always make me feel like I was in a different world when I was reading. I believe reading about a strong, smart woman made me motivated to become like her. It's important for young girls to be able to see, read, and hear about accomplished women. 

    There are so many great children's books now that are filled with diverse characters, accomplished female leads, and have great learning opportunities. Especially if I teach elementary school, I want to have a bookshelf in my classroom filled with books that would inspire my students. I want all of my students to be able to read books filled with characters who resemble themselves. Just like I was inspired to be like Nancy Drew I want my students to be inspired by other great characters. 

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