In this final reflection on the year, Teen Reading Ambassadors hardly know who we are.

We changed up the teen program to emphasize social and artistic opportunities to share what we are reading. Teens chose our themes and used a broader selection of books, directed our own conversations and created and distributed response art in the form of ‘zines.

In this episode, we talk about our bad reading habits — ignoring homework — and good ones — using reading as a reward for studying. We weigh in on skipping ahead in books and time invested in reading graphic novels versus long-form novels.

We also conclude that slowing down with content, whether books or Artemis II compilations or french fries, allows for a better appreciation for human connection.

Books mentioned in this episode:
Wings of Fire, Book 16 by Tui T. Sutherland
Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir

Also, ‘zines are too expensive. Incidentally, ours will cost readers the price of a self addressed stamped envelope.

Huge thanks to our parents and caregivers, donors, Kathy Short and everyone who inspired us to read this year.

This podcast was recorded in the Digital Innovation and Learning Lab (DIALL) in the U of A College of Education.

Producer/Host: Rebecca Ballenger, Worlds of Words Center Associate Director
Audio Engineer: Alexis Mendoza, Worlds of Words Student Employee and U of A Art Major
Coordinator: Vianey Torres, Student Employee and Nursing Major
Digital Collaborator: Melanie Reyes, Worlds of Words Student Employee and U of A First-year Student

Music is “O Trio” by Não Posso Esquecer

For more information on the Worlds of Words Reading Ambassadors, visit wowlit.org.

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We Can Promote Global Literature Together!

The Worlds of Words Reading Ambassador program is completely free for participants who receive a book for themselves and a book to share with their school librarian, ELA/English teacher, or other school entity. If you would like to support this program, please make a gift on-line through the University of Arizona Foundation.

Thank you for listening and keep reading!