Developing literacy through the acquisition of skills may not always engage students in the reading and writing process. Yet immersion in meaningful text with reflective written responses, although interesting to students, may not bring the expected learning results due to lack of those very same skills. I suggest combining the two with teacher modeling, guidance, and feedback as students are given opportunities to work individually or in small group settings.

Pathfinder: Reading for Meaning, Purpose, and Inspiration draws students’ attention through four stories of remarkable individuals who experienced obstacles in life that might have prevented them from being successful. Skills necessary to read and comprehend the stories are woven into each section as students are asked to monitor their thinking and deliver reflective responses.

We have all been inspired in our lives by the actions and beliefs of others. That inspiration calls us to do things we might not previously have thought possible.

This book, adapted from the Pathfinder Project: Exploring the Power of One (Marzano, Paynter, and Doty, 2003) brings authentic experiences to readers as they are asked to respond to questions and prompts that allow them to see themselves in similar situations.

Each story frames the obstacle in such a way that the reader becomes immersed in the issues and solutions that Todd, Jeanette, Coach Shawn, and Dian must resolve. As they learn about the accomplishments of these individuals, they begin to think about their own possibilities.

I believe educators are up to the challenge of implementing what we know about effective teaching. This book is one that should be in their professional library, as it supports that teaching with meaningful reading, writing, and skill development.

I also believe that one of my most rewarding roles has been that of a father. It is with humble pride that I acknowledge the first story, Todd’s Story, as a deeply personal one for me. Todd is my son and his story inspires me.

As you work with students in the Reading for Meaning, Purpose and Inspiration Student Manual, take each story in turn and use the experiences to live and learn vicariously through others who have achieved greatness.