Contact Readers & Writers Rock!
Readers & Writer’s Rock! is part of the Children’s Book Recycling Center, a nonprofit 501 (c)(3) organization.
Support Our Mission
What We Do: Readers & Writers Rock! is committed to challenging inequity and providing books and multicultural author experiences to underserved children and their educators. We believe all children deserve access to books and diverse authors.
“Windows and Mirrors,” coined by literacy expert Rudine Sims Bishop, is how we think about inclusive and diverse texts that are critical to building empathy and self-knowledge. “When books are mirrors, they reflect the self. Children find resonance with characters who look, live, and think like they do… As windows, books transport children as they discover characters and cultures different from their own.” – Tonya Leslie, PhD. Read for a Better World Educator Guide Grades 2-3, LernerClassroom
Our Story
Thanks to an independent bookstore grant by author James Patterson to bookstores engaged in innovative ways to get people reading, Children’s Book World, Los Angeles, launched the nonprofit Readers & Writers Rock! Generous donations allow us to continue and grow the program.
Praise From The Schools
Book: La Guitarissta
La Guitarrista (Lucky Diaz) is the perfect book for our Dual Language community, they loved seeing how both languages can be written into the same book. I heard many students say “it was the best day.” The visit has inspired at least 100 students to become writers!
– Eastman School
Book: The Perfect Place
I’m grateful that you inspired me and my friends that you don’t have to be the greatest in the classroom to become an author. You also told us that your dad was hard working and it inspired me because my dad is also hard working. I want you to go to other schools so you can go inspire them like you inspired me and my friends.
– Malabar School student thank you note to author Matt de la Peña
He (Christian Robinson) was a delight to meet and his presentation was just magical. The children are still talking about the fact that they too may one day grow up to be a writer or illustrator. These are the kinds of real-life inspirational moments that we are trying to give our students to encourage them to keep striving and working hard to reach their goals.
– Wilder Preparatory Academy
Book: Bad Kitty Makes a Movie
Speaking on behalf of all the students who experienced the JOY of Nick Bruel’s visit, I can’t thank you enough. The appreciation and excitement of each child leaving with a book they probably could never afford was the highlight. With many families living below the poverty line, experiencing homelessness, just joining us as refugees from other parts of the world, I know how truly special this gift was. From the bottom of my heart, I thank you and all the donors. To spread the joy of literacy is a gift that can’t be measured.
– Castelar School
Book: Etta Extraordinaire Goes to the White House
Thank you so much for bringing Roda (Ahmed) to our school. She is so lovely and the kids really enjoyed meeting her. What a blessing it has been to work closely with Children’s Book World and Readers & Writers Rock! The students at my school don’t have the most access to books; this organization ensures that not only do they receive brand new, signed books but they also get to meet the authors who wrote them in person. It is so special to have these guests come to our school, especially, when their experiences reflect the lives of our scholars.
– ICEF View Park Elementary
Book: Perla the Mighty Dog
During her visit, Isabel Allende read from and discussed her delightful book “Perla, the Mighty Dog.” She answered students’ thoughtful questions with warmth and insight, making it an unforgettable experience for everyone present. This offered an unmissable teachable moment for our students. It was incredibly rewarding and inspiring to witness their awe as they listened to her share her writing process and the stories behind her works. Moments like these ignite curiosity, spark creativity, and remind us all of the profound impact of literature.
– Marvin Ave. School
Book: Mama’s Magnificent Dancing Plantitas
On behalf of Charles White Elementary, I would like to thank you and Jesus Trejo for the amazing author visit. The students were amazed to be able to meet a real author and receive a copy of his amazing story. His enthusiasm during the presentation kept all the kids active and engaged. This means a lot to the community to have this opportunity that could not be possible without Readers & Writers Rock! and Jesus Trejo. I still have students talking about his visit and how funny his book was. We thank you!
– Charles White Elementary
