In this edition of the Power of Books Author Series we talk with Jamie Jo Hoang, author of My Mother the Mermaid Chaser. We touch on generational trauma. And, how books engender empathy and understanding, which can help break the cycle of generational trauma.... Read More

Several idioms encourage us to be “nice,” including the adage “it’s nice to be important, but more important to be nice.” But “being nice” wasn’t always seen as a virtue. So what did it originally mean? And when did its meaning change? ... Read More

No, gobsmacked isn't a never-ending candy made by Willy Wonka. It's British slang. But, what is vernacular for? ... Read More

It’s impossible to literally “lift ourselves up by our bootstraps.” And yet, the phrase is commonly used to encourage us to power through challenges with hard work. So how did an impossible task become a call for individual grit? ... Read More

You could just say counter-clockwise. In a direction opposite to the usual. Or in a direction contrary to the apparent course of the sun. But that wouldn’t be nearly as much fun… now, would it? And not nearly as steeped in superstition. ... Read More

Banned due to the social issues it addresses, Cisneros' work tells the culturally significant story of Esperanza as she comes of age in the Hispanic quarter of Chicago.... Read More

Hispanic Heritage Month takes place every year from September 15th to October 15th. For those looking to celebrate with a book, we’re highlighting some challenged and banned titles written by Hispanic authors.... Read More

Abecedarian! Its modern definition is as simple as ABC, but it has a surprisingly contradictory history. Can you guess what it means? See if you’re right ... Read More

When we read books for more than just their surface narratives, literature and history work together. Here's a handful of resources for teachers to help students connect with the history inside literature. ... Read More

Being able to read between the lines is a valuable skill. And this idiom has roots in the centuries-old world of secret communication. How can reading between the lines benefit you?... Read More

A verbivore might read the dictionary for fun. And they’re likely a fan of our Fun & Fancy Words section. Are you a verbivore? Find out here.... Read More

Censoring libraries is harmful to society. These letters serve to remind us what's at stake when state-sponsored censorship comes into play.... Read More