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BOOKTALKS
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Booktalking: Transforming Dormant
to Passionate Readers
In a time when discussions about
N
Nothing gets kids to pick up a book faster than hearing about it from
a peer or trusted teacher. But before you can teach your students how
to read, write, practice, and deliver great booktalks, you have to be the
model. Booktalking can be a collaborative process for adults and chil-
dren so working with a colleague may be the fastest way to transform
your class, grade, or entire campus. Push the boundaries of your favorite
genres by discussing books others would want to read. If your students
listened to a booktalk a day they would be introduced to 180 books
a year by their peers and you. Imagine that for their elementary and
middle school years! With this workshop’s booktalk tips, lesson plans,
and engaging activities, you’ll learn how to create an incredible book-
talking culture in your school.
Current Research
“
During booktalks, students are engaged and want to know more about the books.
Most important, students are eager to read many of the books their teachers introduce.
Teachers believe the booktalks are an effective way to expose students to a wide range
of book titles and to share additional information about the literary world.
”
– Wozniak,
Voices from the Middle,
Volume 19 Number 2, December 2011,
National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE)