Literacy and "Precious"

The importance of literacy attracted my attention once again after I read "Push," the book by Sapphire that was made into the movie, "Precious." It's hard to believe that people in America today are illiterate or functionally illiterate, but according to statistics at education-portal.com, 50 million Americans are unable to read above the fourth or fifth grade level, and 42 million can't read at all. What's worse, at least two million Americans are added to that number each year.


The importance of reading in today's society doesn't need any explanation. Rather than criticizing parents and teachers for this debacle, let's see how relatives and friends can help those they know who can't read.


I came across Literacy Center Education Network at literacycenter.net. It's a good place to start because it's comprehensive and gives visitors choices. Want to learn colors? What about uppercase and lowercase letters? Shapes? Those are all there. Besides, it gives a choice of languages--English, Spanish, German and French--thus, it serves a dual purpose for those who want to learn a new language.

Claireece Precious Jones, the character in the book, is a special case that will astound readers, but she's one of the millions who can't read. I'll do some more searching and see what other Web sites people can visit that might help someone they know learn to read.