Jacqueline Woodson discusses her early reading experiences and the importance of reading, particularly slow reading, in her life in her Ted presentation. Jacqueline Woodson discusses the necessity of reading properly in order to demonstrate appreciation for the work and the author’s narrative. As Woodson points out, it is critical to honor the author’s story because it is their tale to share. Recognizing the author’s work is vital since it helps the reader to value the work, but also better grasp the narrative overall. 

The author implies reading slowly with your finger trailing. As a child, I used to read in this manner in order to attentively read whatever book I was reading. It assisted me in better understanding what the author was writing and in “getting closer” to the author. In some ways, I was able to identify with and comprehend the author’s words and emotions throughout the book. This is significant because it demonstrates a parallel between what Woodson says in her Ted Talk and how I was already listening to her advice prior to seeing her Ted Talk.

While listening to Jacqueline, the following reading that sprang to mind was “Asian Americans are still caught in the trap of the ‘Model Minority’ Stereotype. And it Creates inequality for All” in our fourth blog assignment. I attempted skimming the reading at first to get through it, but I quickly understood it was the incorrect way to read it. I was able to grasp the reading and realize the message behind the article after taking my time with it. The message was centered on the term “model minority,” which refers to a minority group or individual who is perceived as being more successful than other minority groups or individuals. I was able to comprehend this message by reading carefully, as advised by Woodson.