Issue # 1

Readers in the Making

Hello, Book-Loving Families!
Welcome back to our weekly connection on raising readers! This week, we’re diving into how we can spark joy for even the most reluctant readers—and I have an exciting announcement to share that I know you’ll love.

Turning Pages Together

There’s nothing like the bond of shared understanding. I remember the first time I connected with another mom who understood the challenge of a reluctant reader.

She got it—the tears over timed reading tests, the arguments over boring book logs, and the hours spent fighting over homework and reading were heartbreaking.

But she also reminded me of this: every tiny step toward reading joy counts. Let’s rewrite the story together.

The Reading Spark

Let's light up their faces with reading rather than constantly pulling teeth to get them to read. Here are a few tips to help make it go better.

Play With Words:

Act out a favorite book scene with silly voices—it’s a game-changer! You can even dress up a little for extra drama and fun. Anything to get kids laughing and associating fun with reading.

Make It Theirs:

Let your child pick a book they’re excited about, even if it’s a comic or cookbook. This really is the key. Let. Them. Choose.

Even if the book is too hard, let them choose. This allows you the privilege of sitting down beside them and reading with them or even to them. You read a page. Your child reads a page. (If this is a longer book and this feels like agony, then do a paragraph for a bit, and then you take over when they get tired. You want them to walk away from this experience remembering the joy of it, not the drudgery.

If the book is too easy. No worries. Let them practice reading fluently- at the appropriate pace and intonation.

This Week's Reading Boost

Top 5 Books to Hook Reluctant Readers:

Piggie and Gerald by Mo Willems: Simple and hilarious—perfect for young readers.
Dogman by Dav Pilkey: Graphic novels meet wild adventures.
Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney: Relatable humor for older reluctant readers.
Lego Books: Build their love of books, brick by brick!
Books About Animals: Dogs, cats, horses—find what they adore.

Beyond Books

Add a little Makerspace into your reading sessions and bring stories to life!

This super fun packet includes 10 challenges related to the stories, and all you need are basic materials. Even trash works!

Piggie and Gerald STEM Story Stations

This Piggie and Elephant Read Aloud and STEM Challenge Resource is perfect for K-2nd grade teachers and parents looking to integrate literacy with hands-on learning.

Designed around the beloved Piggie and Elephant series, this resource combines fun, interactive read-aloud activities with engaging STEM challenges that keep kids thinking, creating, and problem-solving—all while enjoying their favorite characters!

Learn More

Sneak Peek: Chapter 1 of Your Child's Reading Journey!

Did you know? In my upcoming workshop, For the Love of Reading, you’ll learn how to turn reading struggles into joyful moments—in just minutes a day. Stay tuned for more details next week!

Exciting News: Readers in the Making Live Show!

I’m thrilled to announce my new YouTube live show: Readers in the Making, starting January 1st! 🎉

What You Can Expect:

31 Days of Live Content: I’ll go live daily to share tips, stories, and strategies to foster a love of reading.
Practice Episode: Join me for a sneak peek on December 30th, where I’ll discuss the Top 5 Books That Hook Kids on Reading and the value of finding those “gateway” books.
When and Where: Catch me live every morning at 9:00 am EST on YouTube and Instagram.

Let’s start the year off strong by spreading the joy of reading. I can’t wait to see you there!

Your Turn: Share the Joy!

I’d love to see your kid's favorite books or fun library visits! Share your moments with me on Instagram @trina_deboree and tag me—I’ll send you a free book list by age and skill level. Let’s spread the love of reading!