📚 Transform Reluctant Readers Today with 12 Must-Reads!


Issue # 1

Readers in the Making

Hi there, Readers in the Making Family!


Does your child light up when they discover a book they love? Or are they still waiting for that one story that opens the door to joyful reading?

This week, I’m sharing some game-changing book recommendations for reluctant readers and talking about the science behind joy-driven reading. Let’s dive in!

Turning Pages Together

A few years ago, I met a parent whose son absolutely hated reading—until he stumbled across Piggie and Gerald by Mo Willems. The humor in those books had him laughing out loud, and suddenly, reading wasn’t “boring” anymore. That one series led to another, and soon he was devouring books on dinosaurs and outer space.

Sometimes, it only takes one book or one moment to shift a child’s perspective.

What was the book that first sparked joy in your child’s reading journey? I’d love to hear about it—reply and let me know!

The Reading Spark

How to Help a Reluctant Reader Find Their Groove

Here are two simple ways to inspire a reluctant reader:

Find Their "Hook Book"

Every child has a "hook book"—the one story that makes them see reading in a new way. Start with something funny, like The Book With No Pictures, or a series with lots of humor and heart, like Mo Willems’ Piggie and Gerald.

Skip the Pressure

Let reading be a choice, not a chore. Create a cozy space, invite them to explore a pile of books, and let them pick what catches their eye. Sometimes, stepping back opens the door to curiosity.

Need ideas? Check out my reel this week for 12 books kids LOVE to read!

This Week's Reading Boost

Book Recommendation: Brave Irene by William Steig

This beautifully written story of perseverance and courage is perfect for sparking meaningful conversations about determination. Pair it with my Makerspace Comprehension Activity for a hands-on learning experience that kids will adore! Grab it here.

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

🎉 Exciting News! 🎉


The Readers in the Making YouTube Live Show began January 1st with a 31-day challenge to celebrate the love of reading and share why it’s so important for kids.

Today is Day 20, and we’re exploring Reading for Fun: Why It’s the Key to Success. Did you know the joy of reading has a direct impact on lifelong learning and academic achievement?

Join me live at 9:00 AM EST on YouTube or Instagram to discover the science behind joy-driven reading and how to spark it in your child.

I hope to see you live each day of January—and weekly on Mondays after that—for more tips, inspiration, and support.

Your Turn: Share the Joy!

What’s your family’s go-to winter book? Reply to this email or tag me on Instagram @trina_deboree with your cozy reading moments. Whether it’s snuggling with a snowy tale or exploring a magical world, I’d love to see what’s bringing joy to your family this season.

When you tag me, I’ll send you a free book list by standards and skills as a thank-you for sharing your story!

Until We Read Again...

Thank you for being part of this wonderful community. Let’s remind ourselves this week that reading isn’t just about learning—it’s about finding joy, sparking curiosity, and making memories together.

All my best,

Trina

11567 84th Street Circle East, Parrish, FL 34219
Unsubscribe · Preferences

Trina Deboree M.Ed. Readers in the Making

Hi, I’m Trina, a former struggling reader turned educator with over 30 years of experience. Through Readers in the Making, I share weekly tips and resources to help parents and “rebel” teachers inspire a lifelong love for books in kids. My goal? To make reading joyful, accessible, and empowering for all young readers. Join our community to get practical tips, engaging resources, and a little extra inspiration each week! 📚

Read more from Trina Deboree M.Ed. Readers in the Making

Have you ever met a kid who groans at writing time? I have—many times. That’s exactly why I created something new that makes writing feel like play (and might even make your child or students laugh out loud). 🎉 Introducing: Would You Rather…Write?! My brand-new interactive workbook is now available on Amazon ➡️ https://amzn.to/42TCOZO This 123-page workbook is filled with: ✅ 50 hilarious Would You Rather prompts ✅ Guided writing pages to build confidence and sentence structure ✅ 5 hands-on...

Issue # 46 Readers in the Making 👋 Hey there, reader-loving grown-up! If your child (or student) has ever slammed a book shut and shouted “I hate reading!”—you’re not alone. This week, we’re digging into some of the most frustrating reading moments…and how to flip them into wins. Because when kids believe they can read, they start to want to read. 💛 Let’s turn the page together... Turning Pages Together A mom I recently spoke with told me, “Every time I ask him to read, it turns into a fight....

Issue # 45 Readers in the Making Hi there, Readers in the Making Family! Ever tried to read a book with a child who just can’t sit still? One minute, they’re flipping pages, the next, they’re upside down on the couch. (And somehow, the book is now across the room. 🤦♀️ This is so my son, Jackson! Still! And he is 20!) Here’s the thing—movement and reading don’t have to be enemies! Letting kids move while they read can actually improve focus, comprehension, and engagement. This week, I’m...