Contact Rebecca Ballenger, Worlds of Words Associate Director
Reading Ambassadors participate in literature discussions with books that offer multiple perspectives and equip them to be critical thinkers, empathetic citizens and reading promoters. Those experiences include hosting events with the book authors. Please join these remarkable readers in action at two events this October and consider making a gift at crowdfund.arizona.edu/WOW.
These events are special because they are planned, promoted and moderated by Reading Ambassadors. From selecting refreshments to crafting thoughtful questions, these readers take ownership of the process. They are eager to show their peers—and you—the power of literature.
Time: 10 – 11:30 a.m.
Location: Worlds of Words Center, College of Education, Room 453
Karen S. Chow’s middle grade debut, Miracle, is the heartfelt story of Amie, a girl navigating the complexities of grief and loss. As we reflected on Amie’s experiences, we listened to the Firebird Suite from Fantasia 2000 as a musical piece that is prominently referenced in the book. We also tried a mind reading exercise to determine how possible it is to fully understand our friends and family.
Time: Noon – 1:30 p.m.
Location: Worlds of Words Center, College of Education, Room 453
The Teen Reading Ambassadors are beyond excited to welcome back bestselling author Kathleen Glasgow, whose latest young adult novel, The Glass Girl, captivated us with its raw, emotional exploration of teen alcohol addiction. Our discussion took into account the anxiety-inducing forces surrounding contemporary teens and the stories we tell ourselves.
At these events, Reading Ambassadors interview the authors about their writing journeys generally and specifically around the featured books. The events conclude with an audience Q&A followed by a book signing. Campus Stores will be on site to sell copies of the books.
Why Your Support Matters
These events are more than just opportunities to meet authors — they are moments of community engagement, where Reading Ambassadors hone their abilities as organizers, moderators and champions of literature for people their ages. Your support will make a huge impact, allowing the Reading Ambassadors to access a variety of books, participate in thoughtful discussions and develop the skills they need to be leaders—both in their school and other social contexts.
By attending these events, you’ll witness first-hand how your contributions can support these middle school and teen readers. You’ll see them ask probing questions, foster discussions on critical issues and create spaces for their peers to engage with literature in new and exciting ways.
How You Can Get Involved
- Attend the Events: We would be thrilled to have you join us at one or both of these events. Not only will you have the chance to meet talented authors, but you’ll also see the impressive work the Reading Ambassadors have done.
- Spread the Word: Help us get the word out to others who might be interested in attending or supporting our efforts. Share the event details with your friends, colleagues and anyone who believes in the power of books.
- Make a Donation: Your financial support will allow us to sustain our growing program and bring in more in-person authors. Large or small, every contribution makes a difference. Visit crowdfund.arizona.edu/WOW to make your gift.
The 2022/23 cadre of Reading Ambassadors meet author Kathleen Glasgow, who lead them in a writing exercise.
Together, we can ensure that the Reading Ambassadors continue to discover the world through literature and help shape it using their voices. We look forward to seeing you at these exciting events!
* For a deep dive into the history of the Worlds of Words Reading Ambassador program, visit the Fall 2023 issue of WOW Stories.
WOW Currents is a space to talk about forward-thinking trends in global children’s and adolescent literature and how we use that literature with students. “Currents” is a play on words for trends and timeliness and the way we talk about social media. We encourage you to participate by leaving comments and sharing this post with your peers. To view our complete offerings of WOW Currents, please visit its archival stream.