Book Talk: What Exactly is a Book Talk Anyway?
I named this column “Book Talks” after a method created by Nancy Keane. It is a method that I, along with hundreds of other teachers, use in my classroom as a way of creating a “buzz” about different books. So, rather than review more books today, I would like to spend some time talking about how parents can use “Book Talks” in their home as a method of encouraging reading.
I. What is a “Book Talk”?
Simply put, a “Book Talk” is a preview. Think movies. When studios want to attract people to a movie, they show trailers or previews highlighting the most interesting part of a movie. That is exactly what a “Book Talk” does. A reader introduces someone to a book by giving her/him a little taste.
II. So how do I do this at home?
Easily. Your children may already be familiar with “Book Talks” but if not, you can go to this site for tips. Then, pick a night. Instead of “Game Night”, call it “Book Night”. Invite some of your child’s friends and their parents over to make it a little less boring. Each person should bring a book that she/he has read and liked. Have some snacks available and chose a cozy place in your house.
1. Go first to break the ice.
2. Introduce the book. Say the title off the book and then give a short overview of what happens WITHOUT giving away the ending of anything important.
Example: “I just finished reading The Golden Compass by Phillip Pullman. This story takes place not in another world where good and evil are difficult to understand. Children have powers. Dust is good. And parents aren’t always right. It is about one girl who has the power to control the future and will learn that sometimes, she has to do what’s wrong to achieve what is right.”
3. Choose a short passage to read. Choose one that is fun, filled with action, and does not give too much away.
Example: ” “Behind the chair — quick!” whispered Pantalaimon, and in a flash Lyra was out of the armchair and crouching behind it. It wasn’t the best one for hiding behind: she’d chosen one in the very center of the room, and unless she kept very quiet…” (The Golden Compass, Chapter 1 ©Phillip Pullman)
4. Show the book. Make sure to pass the book around so that everyone can see it.
5. Recommend it. Tell your guest who would like the book and why.
Example: “I recommend this book to anyone who likes fantasy books. Head Mommy, you would like this book because it has strong female characters.”
III. So, what’s the point?
The point is to introduce your child to books that she/he may never read. And, it creates an environment where talking about books and reading is fun and acceptable. You are encouraging your child to turn the TV off and to take an interest in what people read.
So, that’s it. Please feel free to email me if you have any questions. I can give you a suggested book list that I use with my 9th graders.
Kristina Brooke is a Mom on the Rise to a rambunctious pre-two-year-old, a wife, a High School English Teacher, and a very crafty lady. She likes reading, playing stinky-feet, telling people about cool/bad buys, and trying to figure out how to raise a well-rounded child. She is also on a mission to lose weight and really needs support.
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