Gwendolyn Brooks (1917-2000) was a poet, author, and teacher from Chicago. She grew up in Bronzeville, where her parents encouraged her love of poetry from a young age. She began … Read More
WITSummer Books Highlights
Each year, as our programs wrap up, WITS gives each student in our one-on-one volunteer programs a bag of four-five brand-new books. We hope that these books remind students of … Read More
Importance of Summer Reading
Soon, the days will be sunny, the breezes will be warm, and the afternoons will be lazy. Summer is coming for Chicago and there’s no better summer activity than reading … Read More
Book Series to TV: What Would You Choose?
Netflix recently shared a great idea: the streaming platform is reviving The Baby-Sitters Club series and turning it into a 10-episode live-action TV show. With Claudia, Dawn, Kristy, Mary Anne, … Read More
The Importance of Reading Aloud
March is National Read Aloud Month, a time to reflect on the importance of reading aloud. When was the last time you listened to someone read aloud? Do you remember … Read More
Biographies For Children To Read In Honor Of International Women’s Month
This year more than ever, our WITS students have been devouring biographies! From picture book biographies and early readers to longer chapter books, our Mid-Day … Read More
Read Across America Day
Today, many schools and libraries celebrate a wonderful national holiday know as Read Across America Day. Read Across America Day was started by the National Education Association (NEA) in 1998 to recognize … Read More
The Many Benefits of Libraries
Since I was a child, libraries have represented opportunity – the possibility of a hearty laugh, a transformative idea, or an imaginative journey. I could sense the wealth of knowledge … Read More
Ten Nonfiction Books Written By and About African Americans
In honor of Black History Month, here are ten nonfiction books by and about African Americans, recommended by the WITS staff. Practice What We Preach The WITS team encourages RLTA … Read More