Encouraging even the most reluctant readers

Julia Rowlandson, the education editor of Barrington Stoke Publishers, is being brought over to Malta by Merlin Library to address teachers on motivating reluctant readers.

Barrington Stoke is an award-winning publisher that specialises exclusively in fiction and resources for reluctant, dyslexic, disenchanted and under-confident readers and their teachers.

Ms Rowlandson, who lectures widely, will be talking about aspects of the nature of reading, namely: Why won't a child read; dyslexic readers' viewpoint on reading and implications on self-esteem, gender implications; difficulties some poor readers may encounter; readability, presentation and content of material; suggested strategies for listening to reading and the importance of reading at home and role models.

"After working with reluctant readers for over 15 years, I am concerned with providing for the needs of children who learn differently. To do this, I am working closely with specialist teachers and a range of multi-disciplinary professionals and organisations," said Ms Rowlandson.

"It makes sense to use tried and tested teaching methods from the world of specific learning difficulties to smooth the path to inclusion.

"Lower and average attaining pupils in mainstream can only benefit from our resources. It is vital that we acknowledge different learning styles and understand the emotional perspective to learning."

All books published by Barrington Stoke are written by award-winning writers such as Michael Morpurgo, Terry Deary, Malorie Blackman, Jeremy Strong and many others, in an excellent simple prose style which has rhythm and depth.

They are a bridge to more complex texts and introduce children to the language of literature, introducing word play and the occasional figure of speech.

The range of books available covers titles for children between eight and 16 years old. A talk will be held in Malta at St James Cavalier Centre for Creativity, in Valletta on February 28 and in Gozo on March 1.

Those interested in attending may contact Merlin Library on 2122 1205 or mail@merlinlibrary.com.

Attendance is free, however reservations are essential as places are limited.

The visit has been made possible thanks to Barrington Stoke, Merlin Library and St James Cavalier Centre of Creativity.

For more information on Barrington Stoke look up www.barringtonstoke. co.uk.