Reading is key to success in and out of school.

Understanding this and knowing what it takes to become a reader is every person’s right. 

Through the eyes of an educator, a father and an aboriginal person, David Bouchard has come to understand why reading is essential to success. He knows what it takes to become a reader. His mission is to share this knowledge with those who should know. He works passionately at educating and inspiring parents, educators and students. He speaks at conferences, in schools, community halls and jails. He presents to any group with whom he can share the gift of reading.

"I am a first year teacher and this is the first time I have attended the annual MRA Conference. It is hard to express in words the excitement I felt listening to my new hero, David Bouchard. The best way I can explain how I felt is by comparing it to the day I graduated from college. You know that feeling just before they call your name to receive your diploma, the feeling that sends small shivers up your spine and goose bumps down your arms, because you know in your heart that you can change the world?

David Bouchard made me believe once again that I, a teacher in Lapeer, Michigan, can and will change the life of my students by teaching them to love reading and become lifelong readers. The MRA conference made it possible for me not only to hear David Bouchard, but I was also given the opportunity to meet and discuss reading with him personally as he signed his book TheDragon New Year. I feel the need to share what he wrote. I don't think my enthusiasm has worn off yet! He signed, "For you Cindy, to share with all those you love - Your new friend - David Bouchard." I am forever indebted to the planning committee of this conference for making a place as big as the Cobo Center seem small and intimate, and giving a first year teacher opportunities to meet the legends of teaching."  

Michigan Reading Journal - Becoming a Part of the Reading Community
(by Cynthia Morris, Lapeer, MI)...