Readers need a hero

Readers need a hero

       I just read one of the best articles I’ve come across in a long time. It’s about how kids who can’t find a hero they can relate to in books are more inclined to become nonreaders, which sets them up to do poorly...
Tackling chronic underachievement

Tackling chronic underachievement

When kids perform beneath their capabilities, parents typically try encouragement, lectures, rewards, threats, teacher meetings, private tutors, and maybe even testing for issues like ADHD. Some go so far as to let their child fail, hoping that will teach him a...
Writers’ retreat

Writers’ retreat

This past weekend I coordinated and participated in a children’s/young-adult writer’s retreat led by award-winning author Kit Pearson on Mayne Island, British Columbia. It was inspirational and fun!Top row, L to R: Penny Draper, Kit Pearson, Sheri Radford, Cynthia...
The car trip that launched a book

The car trip that launched a book

Pam Withers with (to right) her older sister and co-author Cynthia GillThe inside story of writing Jump-Starting Boys: Help Your Reluctant Learner Find Success in School and Life (Viva Editions 2013)Everyone knows that boys are falling behind in education. Largely...