Bringing Books to Life: A Conversation with Prof. Michelle H. Martin, PhD, on "The Day with Trae"

Recently, "The Day with Trae" featured an illuminating discussion with Prof. Michelle H. Martin, PhD, as guest host Alicia Crank stepped in for TraeAnna. The interview provided valuable insights into Prof. Martin's dedication to literacy and the impactful work of her initiative, Read-a-Rama.

Prof. Martin, affectionately known as "Doc Martin," shared updates on Read-a-Rama's summer programs, including "Camp Read-a-Rama" at Compass Housing Alliance in North Seattle. These three weeks of activities incorporate diverse themes, from "Let's Boogie" dance week to a "Lights, Camera, Action" movie-making week, culminating in a "Read-a-Rama Makes Waves" week featuring a trip to a water park.

The history of Read-a-Rama, initiated by Prof. Martin in 2001 while she was a professor at Clemson University, was also discussed. The program trains students to conduct interactive read-alouds, encouraging critical thinking and bringing books to life through engaging activities. Since her move to Seattle in 2016 to join the University of Washington Information School as the Beverly Cleary Professor, Read-a-Rama has expanded its reach, with programs now active on Lopez Island and within Sno-Isle Libraries and Spokane County Libraries.

A significant expansion for Read-a-Rama has been its pivot to online accessibility. Prof. Martin recounted how the pandemic prompted them to offer 60 free, 30-minute online story times, reaching children in seven countries and 32 U.S. states. This online presence provided a vital sense of community during a challenging period. The development of two-hour online camps, where participants received material boxes, further enhanced the interactive experience.

Prof. Martin highlighted the ongoing development of an online training program, designed to empower individuals and organizations nationwide to implement Read-a-Rama in their own communities. This training can be integrated into existing programs like Girl Scouts or Boys and Girls Club, and even benefit parents seeking to cultivate a love for reading in their children. She underscored the importance of a "literacy-rich environment" at home and the necessity for children to observe adults reading.

The conversation also addressed the current challenges in literature, particularly the targeting of Black, Indigenous, and LGBTQ+ books. Prof. Martin emphasized the crucial role of parents in teaching children their history and culture at home, especially as schools and libraries face increasing pressures. She noted that Read-a-Rama champions books with diverse experiences, aiming to counteract the overrepresentation of white children and animals in children's literature.

Practical advice for fostering a love of reading included utilizing free library audiobooks for long car rides. Prof. Martin introduced Rudine Sims Bishop's "mirrors, windows, and sliding glass doors" concept, advocating for books that reflect a child's own experience, offer insights into other lives, and facilitate complete immersion in a story. She showcased diverse titles such as "Soul Food Sunday" and the Caldecott Medal-winning "Berry Song."

Read-a-Rama's commitment to language learning was also discussed, with the program incorporating basic sign language and employing multilingual staff. This inclusivity ensures that all children, including non-verbal participants, can engage fully, while also fostering patience and adaptability in other children.

Looking ahead, Prof. Martin expressed an ambitious vision for Read-a-Rama to be present in all 50 states within a few years, with eventual international expansion. She anticipates leveraging her networks within the teaching and library communities to achieve this goal.

The segment concluded with details on upcoming Read-a-Rama events, including a story time at Broadview Tap House and participation in the Nubian Jam on July 26th. At the Nubian Jam, Read-a-Rama will partner with Project Girl to provide a children's area and distribute free books. Alicia Crank expressed her eagerness to attend, especially as the event coincides with her birthday.

The interview with Prof. Michelle H. Martin, PhD, served as a compelling reminder of the transformative power of reading, the importance of inclusive literacy programs, and the unwavering dedication of those committed to making books accessible to every child.

Learn More: https://www.read-a-rama.org/ and @campreadarama