Early Reader Program

The Early Reader Program allows a limited number of school libraries or language arts classes to receive copies of "The Saeshell Book of Time" serial novel for free before it is published. Schools selected for the program receive a copy of the first novel of the serial printed on heavy (28lb) acid free paper bound in a three ring binder. Schools are under no obligation to return the copy they receive. They can shelve it or trash it, whenever they are done with it.

If the teacher or librarian determines it is appropriate for the students to read, then I request that they solicit feedback from their readers on the novel. What I am looking for is answers to the following questions:

1. Did they like it?
2. If they didn't like it, where did they stop reading and why?
3. If they did like it, who was their favorite character.
4. Any other comments they wish to provide.

I realize that it will not be possible to get every reader to comment. It is especially hard to get comments from kids who don't like it because they have a natural inhibition against giving negative feedback to adults. It is a good learning opportunity for teachers and librarians to instruct their student in how critiquing a literary work is not the same as criticizing the person. Participants in the program that forward me feedback are eligible to receive the other three novels in the serial.

Librarians in the program have found that students are anxious to read the novel simply because students like to be able to read the book before publishers and everyone else. They like being able to give feedback that will be listened to. All feedback I receive is posted anonymously on the blog, unless the teacher/librarian gives me permission to use a school name and/or student first name. Typically, librarians just strip the student name off the review and forward it to me. I request that the grade and gender of the reader be forwarded as well so that I can see how different ages and genders view the book.

Sorry, but this program is confined to schools in the US, currently. If you would like to participate in the program, simply send an email to Rusty at childrenofsophista dot com. Send me who you are and a link to your school's website. Books can only be shipped to a school address. Please tell me how many copies you would like and how many students you think might participate.

And of course, if you participate, a big Thank You!