A few weeks ago, I was asking you for suggestions to order Spanish books for my school library. Over my teaching career, I have found that reading is a key skill, if not the main skill to learn a language. By reading texts and books, language “acquisition” happens. According to Stephen Krashen “there are two distinct ways of learning language: language “learning” and language “acquisition”. Language “learning” is learning that takes conscious effort on the part of the learner. It is characterized by learning grammar rules, memorizing vocabulary lists, and performing speaking drills. Language “acquisition” is learning that is subconscious and takes little or no effort on the part of the learner. It is characterized by listening and understanding to messages, reading interesting books and articles, and other enjoyable activities that take place in the language being learned. The only thing that can lead to fluency in the language is language “acquisition”. Language “learning” can only be used as a way to consciously edit speech or writing, and it is never the cause of spontaneous, unrehearsed speech or writing.”

Of course, it not easy to find books which will interest students neither it is easy to find books which are at the “right level”: not too simple and not too challenging. After careful consideration and much thought, I have chosen children books which I will read in class. These books are too reinforce key structures. I have also ordered more challenging books which are to be chosen and read by students themselves, in class and at home. I will allocate some time during lessons when students can read in silence for 10 to 15 minutes.

Here is my list:

• Sofia en une aventura por la selva
• Eric & Julieta Series : Como Mama / Es mio / Ahora que? / En el museo / Donde esta Eric? / Desastre en la cocina / todos enamorados
• La ciudad de las bestias / El Reino del Dragón de Oro / El Bosque de los Pigmeos
• Leyendas, mitos, cuentos y otros relatos aztecas
• Viajes fantasticos
• Pobre Ana / Patricia va a California / Casi se muere
• Quienquiera que seas
• Abuelita fue al mercado
• Mis amigos

What do you think? Any suggestions are welcome!