GIVE THE GIFT! shows parents and caretakers simple but powerful “literacy customs” to help children cultivate a love of reading. Humorous, four-color illustrations depict parents of many backgrounds, with children ranging from infants to teens. Hints scattered throughout the text expand on central ideas. While the book is designed to be read quickly by busy parents, a few detailed spreads spell out the many benefits of reading and practical suggestions to curb excessive time spent on TV and video games.

Use cartoons from GIVE THE GIFT! to dress up your literacy magazine or newsletter! FREE high resolution files in black & white may be downloaded by clicking the BACK button on top of this page, then clicking HOME. From there, click on the red button that reads "Free Literacy Downloads." For color images and other details, please email us at info@tortugapress.com.

*NAPPA Gold Award Winner

(National Parenting Publications Awards)

*Finalist in Parenting/Family Category of National Best Books 2007 Awards (USA Book News)

What others say about Give the Gift!

"If government really wanted to ensure no child was 'left behind,' they first would give this book to as many parents as they find. It's a great, yet simple, literacy tool."

                 --Jim Trelease, author of The Read-Aloud Handbook (2 million copies sold)

 

"What a splendid concept! It is correct to focus on adult behavior as crucial for establishing reading as a pleasure. I loved the simple yet ever varied family portrayals. There is real merit in the theme and execution."

                                                        --Gary Barth, M.D.

"All parents at some level are engaged in home schooling. We love this book. Follow the '10 Fulfilling Ways ' and lay the groundwork for your child's success in life!

            --Rebecca Kochenderfer, Senior Editor of  www.homeschool.com

"This book should be read by children and parents together. The combination of text and cartoons makes it ideal for even the youngest reader. The book covers almost every aspect of reading and related activities. Parents will be amazed at the statistics included."

     --Jan Lieberman, retired librarian, Santa Clara Public Library, CA

"Hooray! An accessible book on how, why, and when to read with your child. Let's get it into the hands of parents across the country!"

            -- Valerie Lewis , owner of Hicklebee's, Children's Literature TV commentator

"I have just read your book, Give the Gift! Thank you so much for all of your books, but especially for Give the Gift , which will definitely change lives."

          -- Suzanne Hunter , Librarian, Lawrence Elementary and Middle Schools, CA

"Thank you for sending the copy of your new book-it's great. Everyone who looked at it loved the 'comic strip' format. This will be so wonderful to share with our parents.  Thanks again."

            --Kathy Johnston, Parent Outreach, Palmdale Unified School District , CA

"This lively guide to literacy, with its family-friendly illustrations and sensible, straightforward language, is chock full of ideas for getting your child's attention, encouraging reading, and modeling behavior which benefits kids at all stages of their development."

        --Kaye Exo, Grandma's Book Letter (a blog at www.grandmasbookletter.com)