Bonding Through Books Read Aloud Group

A mother reading "The Missing Piece" by Shel Silverstein at the Bonding Through Books read aloud group. One of her favorite books to read aloud, she said, "The Missing Piece" shares an important message without being in-your-face, and is fun to read too.

Read To Me hosted a reading group on Monday, January 25, 2010 from 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. at Barnes & Noble - Ala Moana for parents, teachers, caregivers, and community members to learn about the benefits of reading aloud, observe effective read-aloud techniques, and practice reading aloud in a friendly story-time setting.

With furlough days diminishing classroom time and 41 percent of Hawaii’s 4th grade public school students already scoring below basic reading levels (2007, NAEP), children are struggling with basic literacy skills. Reading aloud is a simple yet often overlooked activity that can enhance classroom instruction and provide a rich, enjoyable experience for both reader and child.

Community Outreach Director Monica Coldwell facilitated the event. An actor and improviser known for her work with the Honolulu Theater for Youth, Coldwell used her three-year experience as a company actor to demonstrate how to bring reading aloud to life.