Last week, I had the pleasure of co-emcee's the American Literacy Corporation's annual awards breakfast.
It was a great morning, where 5 children's book authors were recognized for their outstanding work in the field of children's literature. 5 extremely creative, talented authors, whose work I've read to my own children.
And, as I was listening to them speak, I realized, just how tough a job they have. You read these simple children's books, and think, "anyone could write that." But when you REALLY read the books, you realize just how much thought goes into each page.
To find topics that are interesting to both toddler's and their parents is no easy task. You think a simple story about a dinosaur or a bunny is easy enough to write, but its really not.
The best children's books are those that both child and parent can read, and enjoy. I can't tell you how special those few books, that my children ask me to read over and over again, are. It's an experience that we both enjoy!
And, studies show that reading to your kids, is not enough to get them interested in picking up a book themselves. It takes parents, reading for their own enjoyment, to set a good example.
So the next time you have the chance to skim a children's book, really take a look at how it was written. Take a moment to appreciate the art of storytelling... for all ages. You just might enjoy it!
