My Reading Identity by Judith Rayson

Early Reading Life

jrayson — 2022-08-25 00:17:18 UTC

I was fortunate to grow up with many books in my home. My mom loved to read aloud to my sister and I. I remember her reading Strega Nona and Tikki Tikki Tembo very expressively! Though I loved hearing these books and exploring the intricate images, I realize now that they were culturally sensitive and were filled with stereotypes.

Elementary School

jrayson — 2022-08-25 00:20:11 UTC

During elementary school, my third grade teacher introduced me to many books that inspired me to enjoy realistic fiction where I sought out characters that I could relate to. Lois Lowry's Anastasia Krupnik was one of my favorites.

My Adult Reading Life

jrayson — 2022-08-28 18:03:45 UTC

Reading is a big part of my life as an adult. I enjoy sharing what I've read and setting goals for my reading on the app Good Reads. This app also makes recommendations and helps me keep track of the books I'd like to enjoy next.

High School Reading Life

jrayson — 2022-08-28 18:08:23 UTC

Though I did not read for leisure as often in high school, I do remember certain texts I read in school having a huge impact on me. It was during this part of my life that I sought out texts to learn more about the world around me rather than finding characters who were similar to me. Reading Crime and Punishment as a senior opened my eyes to another part of the world, impressed upon me how good writing can reveal the psychology of a character, and allowed to earnestly participate in debates about a text with my classmates.

Picture Book Memories

jrayson — 2024-08-27 10:18:21 UTC

This was a book that my mom read to my sister and I very often. She went to college in Boston and loved to tell us about all the landmarks and locations featured in the book. Even though the illustrations are sparse, it truly sparked my imagination to think about the city parks and Charles River. The simplicity of the story makes it very memorable as well.

Middle School

jrayson — 2024-08-27 10:21:44 UTC

When I was in middle school, we read this classic. It was the first time I read a book about loss that really resonated with me. It showed me how much compassion you can have for characters in a book. I was also fascinated by the rural setting. Growing up in a suburban area made the farm life described in this book very unique.