My first recollections and memories of reading take me back to one very special Christmas Eve as a young child. I recall the warmth of the fireplace and the glow of the Christmas lights twinkling through the windows, from the house next door. As I sat on my Uncle Jerry’s lap, listening to him recite “T’was the Night Before Christmas” with great exhilaration in his voice, my mind was baffled at his ability to skim the words on each page so quickly. I wished to be able to do the same. The story soon came to an end and I felt like I had envisioned the story right before my very own eyes. Meredith then bursts in with another classic Christmas story, “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” I had never been so mesmerized by the way they told these stories.
A few years later AR was introduced to us (accelerated reading.) This changed my view of reading. It was something I was forced to do. In AR you obtain points by reading and testing your knowledge/comprehension of what you have read. Your point goal is determined by your teacher. If your point goal was achieved at the end of the nine weeks you would receive certificates or prizes. You would also be recognized at the upcoming assembly. This encouraged me to strive to excel in AR. It was always a competition of who could get the most points in the class. It was as if whoever won was treated like royalty, much respect was given. This to my classmates and I back then was major. Although this program was time consuming, it formed me into a higher level reader.
With most all of my family being English teachers or college professors, reading played a huge role their lives and would most likely be forced upon me. However growing up in the midst of my wordy family I grew to enjoy books. I was fascinated with the world that books took you to. It was always an adventure, an escape from reality.
Now that we do not do AR, I read for fun. Being the typical girl that I am, my favorite genre of books would have to be romance. I love reading about love and relationships. However a good mystery book is good every now and then.
I am really thankful for what reading and writing has taught me. Without it where would we be? Reading opens up a whole new world full of excitement.
