Cris Tovani: I Read It, But I Don't Get It.

“I Read It, But I Don’t Get It” by Cris Tovani was such a powerful read. From the very start of the book, I connected with it. Growing up, I never minded reading, however often times when I would read, I wouldn’t understand what I just had read. I didn’t comprehend it. I never understood why, because I was really focusing. Granted, sometimes if a book was boring I would zone out, but most of the time I was trying. I would re-read a lot, just like one of Cris’ students said on the first day of class. But I never knew why I would read five pages and have no clue what I just read. Knowing that there are tons of readers out there like me was really comforting. I was shocked by how many students dreaded reading when they came to Cris’s class. I really liked how she handled the class and managed students attitudes, always keeping it light-hearted and trying to relate to the students. One of my favorite techniques she used was when she brought a bag of books in that all meant something to her because they helped shape who she became as a reader. Even if students aren’t the best readers or don’t necessarily like it, I think it is true that almost all of them can remember an important book even from when they were little that they have a fond memory with. I think it’s so sad that reading is portrayed in schools as negative or boring, but I think this book is a great stepping stone for helping kids become encouraged again and start to look at reading in a new, positive light. Reading is an academic essential that is crucial for members of society to be able to be successful in the world, and it’s important we teach it that way, but also let students have fun with it.