Read Across America Lesson Plan

Students watch the following two films about heroes who bring books to those who may not otherwise have access to books to read. Then read one of the stories about Luis Soriano Bohorquez and his Biblioburro. (One story has text and audio, one story is in Spanish and the other story is in French) before considering the discussion questions. 

Learn more about Luis Soriano Bohorquez and his traveling Biblioburro Library.

One story is available in text with audio allowing students to listen as they read along. One story is in Spanish and another in French, allowing students to practice reading a foreign language or for those students whose native language is Spanish or French. 

Discussion Questions and Activity

1. Both Luis Soriano Bohorquez and Alicia Tapia created a mobile library to bring books to those who may not otherwise have access. Why is this important?

2. Who else works to bring books to those who do not have access to books? Do some research and share their story with MY HERO.

3. Are there people in your community or area of the world who do not have access to books? What can you do? Create an action plan and get others involved. 

Enjoy this short animated film that celebrates the magic and joy of a reading adventure.

Appropriate for all ages. 

BUTTERFLY IN THE SKY tells the story of the beloved PBS children’s series "Reading Rainbow," its iconic host LeVar Burton, and the challenges its creators faced in cultivating a love of reading through television. Two seconds into the bubbling synth sounds of its theme song will have a child of the 1980s or ‘90s exclaiming “Reading Rainbow!” Such is the beloved nature of the classic children’s literary television show that introduced millions of kids to the wonder of books.

Students read the following stories about inspiring authors who are heroes to those who have read their books. 

Ask students the question: Who is your favorite author?

Have students write a story about their favorite author including  why the books written by this author are important to them and how this person is inspiring.

Students share their story with MY HERO using the Create program. 

Erin Gruwell's students did not all have access to books. Learn about the effect reading The Diary of Anne Frank had on her students and how that book inspired her students to write about their own lives. These stories were published in a book titled "Freedom Diaries".

Discussion Questions and Activity

1. Erin Gruwell's students were inspired by The Diary of Anne Frank. What book has made a positive impact on your life or inspired you? 

2. Who is your favorite author? Consider writing a story about their life and why their books have been important to you to submit to MY HERO.

3. Why is it important for all people, regardless of race, gender or religion to see themselves in stories they read?

4. Recommend a book or author to a peer. Ask others for a recommendation and keep reading different genres and authors. 

Students analyze the portraits below of author heroes.

Who is your favorite artist? Consider creating a portrait of them to submit to the MY HERO Art Gallery. Please include a paragraph about why this author is important to you.