​ The Power of Reading: Insights from the Research by Dr. Stephen D. Krashen 

​“There is massive evidence that self-selected reading, or reading what you want to read, is responsible for most of our literacy development. Readers have better reading ability, know more vocabulary, write better, spell better, and have better control of complex grammatical constructions. In fact, it is impossible to develop high levels of literacy without being a dedicated reader, and dedicated readers rarely have serious problems in reading and writing.”

Mirrors, Windows and Sliding Glass Doors by Dr. Ruth Badine Sims

“Books are sometimes windows, offering views of worlds that may be real or imagined, familiar or strange. These windows are also sliding glass doors, and readers only have to walk through in imagination to become part of whatever world was created or recreated by the author.”

The Joy and Power of Reading: A Summary of Research and Expert Opinion by Lois Bridges

"Reading provides a cognitive workout that is without equal. "Reading volume" (time logged inside text plus number of words read) exercises and expands the mind. Reading fiction expands the heart as well. Not only does reading make us smarter. it also makes us more empathetic." 

The Book Whisperer by Donalyn Miller

“Reading changes your life. Reading unlocks worlds unknown or forgotten, taking travelers around the world and through time. Reading helps you escape the confines of school and pursue your own education. Through characters – the saints and the sinners, real or imagined – reading shows you how to be a better human being.”