Imagine a world where every child starts their journey with the power of books, guided by caring doctors who understand the magic of storytelling. That's exactly what Reach Out and Read is doing, and we sat down with Dr. Michelle Shiffman to uncover this incredible program's impact.
Reach Out and Read isn't just about handing out books – it's a revolutionary approach to child development. From birth to age five, pediatricians give families age-appropriate books during wellness visits, creating magical moments of connection and learning. Dr. Shiffman explains that more than 90% of a child's brain develops in those crucial first five years, and reading together is like brain-building rocket fuel.
The program isn't just about literacy – it's about representation, emotional growth, and building unbreakable bonds between children and caregivers. By providing books that reflect diverse experiences, Reach Out and Read helps kids see themselves as important, valued, and capable of amazing things.
Some mind-blowing stats? In 2024, the program reached over 4.5 million children, distributing nearly 8 million books nationwide. In Colorado alone, they gave out 240,000 books! But it's not just about quantity – it's about quality interactions that transform lives.
Physical books matter too. Dr. Shiffman passionately explains how turning pages, feeling textures, and engaging all senses helps children develop language, motor skills, and imagination in ways digital reading simply can't match.
For parents worried about reading to their kids, here's the best news: you don't need to be a perfect reader. Just spending time together, looking at pictures, and asking questions can set your child up for incredible success.
Want to get involved? Visit reachoutandread.org and discover how you can help build a generation of confident, curious readers.
Reading isn't just fundamental – it's transformational. And doctors like Dr. Michelle Shiffman are leading the charge, one book at a time.

Dive into the Untold Story of Isabella Whitney: A Rebellious Poet Who Defied 16th Century Expectations In this captivating episode of the Connecticut Book Festivals Podcast, author Constance Briones brings to life the remarkable story of Isabella Whitney, a groundbreaking poet who challenged the literary norms of Tudor England. If you're a history buff, literature lover, or simply enjoy stories of incredible women who refused to be silenced, this episode is your perfect literary escape. Briones reveals how Isabella, a young woman from an upper-class family, navigated the strict social constraints of the 16th century with remarkable courage and passion. Despite limited educational opportunities for women, Isabella developed a deep love for reading and writing poetry - a pursuit that was almost exclusively reserved for men at the time. The podcast explores Isabella's journey from a maid servant in London to a pioneering poet who wrote boldly about love, relationships, and the complexities of human emotions. Her story isn't just a historical account; it's a testament to the power of curiosity, resilience, and intellectual hunger. Listeners will be fascinated by the intricate details of Isabella's life, including her illicit love affair with Robert Barrington and her determination to continue writing poetry despite societal restrictions. Briones masterfully weaves historical context with personal narrative, bringing this forgotten poet to vibrant life. Key highlights include:

• The impact of the Protestant Reformation on women's education

• Challenges faced by women writers in Tudor England

• Isabella's revolutionary approach to poetry

• The importance of passion in overcoming social barriers

Whether you're a history enthusiast, aspiring writer, or someone who loves discovering hidden stories of remarkable women, this episode offers a fascinating glimpse into a world where knowledge was a radical act of rebellion. Don't miss this extraordinary exploration of a poet who dared to write her own story in a time when women were expected to remain silent.