How to Read a Story

Kate Messner's "How to Read a Story" is a meta-narrative picture book that celebrates the joy and process of reading. It gently walks children through the steps of choosing a book, finding a cozy spot, and immersing themselves in the narrative, from beginning to end. The book itself acts as a guide, modeling the very act it describes. It handles the topic of reading with warmth and enthusiasm, making it feel like a shared adventure rather than a task. The emotional arc is consistently gentle and uplifting, designed to foster a positive association with books. This book is ideal for preschoolers and early elementary children who are just beginning their reading journey or for those who already love books and will appreciate this ode to storytelling. Parents might reach for this when they want to encourage a love for reading, or simply to share a cozy, affirming story about the magic of books. It stands out by making the act of reading itself the central character, inviting children to participate actively in the experience.