A Dominican-born academic tells the story of how the Great Books transformed his life--and why they have the power to speak to people of all backgrounds. What is the value of a liberal education? Traditionally characterized by a rigorous engagement with the classics of Western thought and literature, this approach to education is all but extinct in American universities, replaced by flexible distribution requirements and ever-narrower academic specialization....

If you love to read, and presumably you do since you've picked up this book, you know that some books affect you so profoundly they forever change the way you think about the world. Some books, on the other hand, disappoint you so much you want to throw them against the wall. Either way, it's clear that a book can be your new soul mate or the bad relationship you need to end. In Dear Fahrenheit 451, librarian Annie Spence has crafted love letters...

Presents one hundred and seventy themed reading lists designed for any type of reading, from "chick lit" to books on bicycling, covering a wide variety of tastes and topics.

Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist and bestselling author Anna Quindlen uses the mastery of the medium in which she works to send an utterly compelling message as she explores the importance of books in her life and their vital role in society. THE LIBRARY OF CONTEMPORARY THOUGHT is a groundbreaking series where America's finest writers and most brilliant minds tackle today's most provocative, fascinating, and relevant issues. Striking and daring, creative...

This book "prepares and inspires librarians to get the most out of booktalking by probing teen reading experiences, illustrating step-by-step, booktalk writing instructions, building booktalk programs, and coaching booktalk performances"--P. [4] of cover.

There are challenges to creating programs for mixed-age groups over a wide range of developmental stages, while keeping these programs "age appropriate" and engaging the children. This book offers the background knowledge and framework to use as a springboard for understanding the complexity of interactions with children, and for increasing your own creativity as you plan and present storytimes.

"With the help of this book's adaptable storytime activities, tools for self-reflection, and discussion starters, children's librarians will learn how to put anti-racism work into their professional practice while fostering an environment that celebrates all identities"-- In the summer of 2016, Bratt began a personal introspection of how she interacted with the families in her storytimes, and how race placed a direct part in her creation of storytime...

Just as Larry Newton, one of the most notorious inmates at Indiana Federal Prison, was trying to break out of jail, Dr. Laura Bates was trying to break in. Now, a decade later, her Shakespeare in Shackles program has been lauded by academics and prison communities alike. In this profound illustration of the enduring lessons of Shakespeare through the ten-year relationship of Bates and Newton, an amazing testament to the power of literature emerges....

Thousands of books for teens are published every year, but until now no general reference has existed. Anita Silvey"s book is the one everyone has been waiting for. Parents will see what their teenagers are actually reading and be able to lead them to the best of an overwhelming bunch. Teachers will spot excellent additions to summer reading lists. Booksellers will have a host of suggestions in every genre to offer their customers. Librarians can...