Reading for Research 2020 Challenge Reflections

By Keila V. Dawson

Art is the only way to run away without leaving home.  – Twyla Tharp

                                                              Photo courtesy of Author Cynthia Harmony

There is no underestimating the many challenges everyone has faced this month. Nor can we, as picture book lovers, underestimate the power of our community or books.  

In today’s post, ReFoReMo challenge participants share how this year’s challenge helped them cope during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Thanks once again to you and your guests for the daily gifts of wisdom and inspiration! With so much off track, the daily focus for reading helped brighten these weeks. I aim to keep this habit going, with some new favorites to re-read until libraries open again.  – Lisa Billa

Honestly, Reforemo saved me in so many ways this month. 1) I had a HUGE stack of books to read with my kids during our new homeschool setup. 2) The stories filled my emotional well with their depth and beauty. 3) It was something to look forward to each day. SO, not only did I learn a lot, but it helped me in other ways as well. Thank you. –Laurie Carmody

I began this month full of enthusiasm but leave it struggling to research or even read some days. Your guest bloggers have made this a much happier month and even though I didn't read consistently, this community always gives hope, friendship, and new ways to think about our work. – Kathy Halsey

Thank you so much to all the writers who shared their favorite mentor texts. I didn't get to read all of them due to the situation we are living in right now, but they are on my TBR list. ReFoReMo gave me something to look forward to each day! ReFoReMo gave me something to look forward to each day! – Linda Kulp Trout 

And we thank you, all the participants and guest posters, for being here for each other now and always.

Stay healthy everyone!