In his New York Times editorial, "Some Thoughts on the Lost Art of Reading Aloud", Verlyn Klinkenborg astutely points out that reading aloud promotes deeper thinking about literature.  "What I would suggest", he writes, "is that our idea of reading is incomplete, impoverished, unless we are also taking the time to read aloud."

This is most definitely true, although far more is gained through reading aloud than comprehension alone.

Firstly, a reader's curiosity, surprise, emphasis and intrigue are provided, without necessary explanation, to listeners. Imagine the power that such a shared imagination can have in educating young children in the meaning or importance of literature.

Secondly, the interaction is incredibly valuable in building a strong, personal reader-to-listener rapport. Even the most challenged of classes can be mesmerized by good reading-aloud; the quiet students who are suddenly vocal experts, the loud students humbled by their desire to learn to be more emphatic.

Indeed, there is much more to be learned through reading aloud than simply the meaning and choice of the words and work alone.

Make it a read-aloud-day,
--Dave