Sparks in the Dark: Lessons, Ideas and Strategies to Illuminate the Reading and Writing Lives in All of Us

by Travis Crowder, Todd Nesloney

What sparks a lifelong love of learning? Books have the power to shape the way we think. Stories—reading them, writing them, and sharing them—give us new lenses through which to view the world and the people we encounter. In short, words matter. In Sparks in the Dark, Travis Crowder and Todd Nesloney share their experiences as educators who purposefully seek to spark a love for reading and writing in the learners they serve. The reason is Writing and reading have the power to change the trajectory of a life. Through the stories and real-life examples they share, the authors light the way to . . . Incorporating literacy skills in every subject in engaging ways. Empowering students and staff to ask and explore tough questions about the world. Encouraging learners at all levels to choose to read books that challenge them. Taking responsibility to seek and share learning for everyone’s benefit. More standards, tests, and mandates are not the answer to improving literacy. Sparking a fire—a passion—for words, stories, and self-expression in learners is the surest path to instilling a lifelong love of learning. Let’s light up the darkness!

Genres: Education, Professional Development, Nonfiction, Teaching

240 pages, Paperback

Published June 2, 2018

Reviews

[TheNextGenLibrarian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perfect for reading/writing teachers and those who support ELA on your campus. Great lesson ideas, theories and strategies to get kids reading and writing! Amazing book, as usual from Todd Nesloney and now Travis Crowder!

[Heather Stringham · Rating 4 out of 5]

How do you influence your students? What is the most important thing for you to do? This book explains the importance of choice reading and writing. Be a learner and advocate for students.

[Lynzi · Rating 5 out of 5]

If I could give more stars, I would. Just a wonderfully inspiring book about the importance of being a model for reading and writing for students! One of my top favorite PD books.

[Garrett Street · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great and very insperational. This book has a lot of great resources for helping kids find a joy for reading.

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent! Blog post coming soon: twonerdysisters.wordpress.com

[Lipi Pratt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great for reminding a teacher of their purpose in ELA