current writings

Two recent stories regarding my beat:

"Reader's Digest Stays Upbeat Despite Trouble Signs" by the Associated Press, pub. 9-06-09
http://www.nytimes.com/aponline/2009/09/09/us/AP-US-Readers-Digest.html

After 87 years, one of the largest, most read magazines, Reader's Digest, is adapting to life after their parent company filed for Chapter 11 this summer. In an interview, the editor-in-chief makes a good point that all articles regarding the death of print are in print! The article goes on to compare Reader's Digest to the US magazine industry overall and highlights cost-cutting practices the company is taking to stay afloat.


"A New Assignment: Pick Books You Like" by Motoko Rich, pub. 8-29-09
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/08/30/books/30reading.html?_r=18&scp=1&sq=students%20get%20new%20reading%20assignment&st=cse

This article spotlights a 7th and 8th grade English teacher who has turned over the decision regarding class readings to her students. Rich writes that this practice is aiming to "revolutionize the way literature is taught in America's schools." Hitting closer to home, the article also notes that many of Seattle's public middle schools are adopting this pedagogy. Contrary to methods that DO build a shared literary culture but limit choice, this technique aims to promote a "lifelong love of reading." This article also cause me to more closely consider the common reading program for freshman here at WSU.