Join bestselling author and nationally syndicated advice columnist Amy Dickinson as she shares her powerful "Put a Book on Every Bed" Christmas tradition that's transforming family literacy across America. In this inspiring conversation, Amy reveals how a simple wrapped book can revolutionize student engagement, student motivation, and create lasting home-school connections.

Discover evidence-based education strategies that teachers, parents, and homeschoolers can implement immediately to boost student participation and foster a love of reading. Amy's journey from a struggling late reader to NYT bestselling author offers hope and practical teaching tips for supporting difficult students and inspiring students of all backgrounds.

This episode is perfect for empowered educators seeking innovative teaching approaches, parents wanting to strengthen family partnerships, and anyone committed to education transformation. Learn how Amy's advocacy for fine-free libraries removes barriers to student success and creates more inclusive classrooms.

Whether you're dealing with low engagement, seeking professional development ideas, or looking for ways to support the whole child, this conversation provides actionable strategies for thriving students and inspired teaching.

Chapters:
0:00 Introduction to Amy Dickinson
1:54 Inspiring Educators: Mrs. Jones Story
4:15 The Power of Reading Aloud to Older Children
5:54 Put a Book on Every Bed Christmas Tradition
9:01 Growing Up with a Reader: Basketball Game Story
11:22 Library Advocacy and Book Bundles During COVID
12:07 Giving Books to Families in Need
14:19 Selecting Age-Appropriate Books
17:43 Visiting Elder Communities and Assisted Living
18:30 Working with Schools and Organizations
22:44 Connecting with Young Readers and Authors
26:36 Fine-Free Libraries: Removing Barriers to Literacy
29:55 Call to Action: Supporting the Book on Every Bed Movement

Episode Mentions:

• Amy's Books
• Wait Wait…Don't Tell Me!
• Brigid Hubberman - Children's Reading Connection
• Charlotte's Web by E.B. White
• Apple Fest - Ithaca, NY
• David McCullough 
• Scholastic Biographies
• Buffalo Street Books - Lisa Swayze
• Tompkins County Public Library 
• A Passage to India by E.M. Forster
• Freeville Elementary School
• John Simon & Cal Walker  
• Libraries are getting rid of late fees. Here’s why that’s a good thing 
• Seinfeld - The Library Cop
• Horatio Alger Association

When coaches, teachers, administrators, and families work hand in hand, it fosters a school atmosphere where everyone is inspired and every student is fully engaged in their learning journey.