Guest host Alicia Crank chatted with Prof. Michelle H. Martin, PhD, about literacy and her amazing initiative, Read-a-Rama!

Alicia, stepping in for TraeAnna (who was at the NAACP conference), shared her excitement for the opportunity.

"Doc Martin" updated everyone on Read-a-Rama's vibrant summer programs, including "Camp Read-a-Rama" in North Seattle, with themes from dance to movie-making and even a water park trip.

The program started in 2001 at Clemson University, training students to bring books to life through interactive read-alouds. Since Prof. Martin moved to Seattle in 2016 to the University of Washington, Read-a-Rama has grown across Washington State, reaching Lopez Island, Sno-Isle, and Spokane County Libraries.

During the pandemic, Read-a-Rama went online, offering 60 free story times that reached kids in seven countries and 32 U.S. states, creating a vital sense of community. Their two-hour online camps, complete with material boxes, boosted engagement.

Prof. Martin highlighted their new online training program, designed to help individuals and organizations nationwide implement Read-a-Rama. This training can integrate into existing programs like Girl Scouts or Boys and Girls Club, and even help parents nurture a love for reading. She stressed the importance of a "literacy-rich environment" at home and kids seeing adults read.

The discussion also touched on challenges in literature, particularly the targeting of diverse books. Prof. Martin emphasized parents' crucial role in teaching kids their history and culture at home, especially as schools and libraries face pressure. Read-a-Rama champions diverse books to counter the overrepresentation of white children and animals in kids' literature.

For fostering reading, she suggested using free library audiobooks for car rides. Prof. Martin shared Rudine Sims Bishop's "mirrors, windows, and sliding glass doors" concept: books that reflect a child's experience, offer insights into other lives, and allow full immersion. She showcased titles like "Soul Food Sunday" and "Berry Song."

Read-a-Rama also focuses on language learning, incorporating basic sign language and employing multilingual staff for inclusivity, including non-verbal participants.

Looking ahead, Prof. Martin envisions Read-a-Rama in all 50 states within a few years, with eventual international expansion, leveraging her extensive networks.

The segment wrapped up with upcoming Read-a-Rama events: a story time at Broadview Tap House and participation in the Nubian Jam on July 26th. At Nubian Jam, they'll partner with Project Girl to provide a children's area and distribute free books. Alicia expressed her excitement, especially since it's her birthday that day!

The interview was a powerful reminder of reading's transformative power, inclusive literacy programs, and the dedication of those making books accessible to every child.

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