Season 2, Episode 48 - Celebrating 100 Episodes of Storytelling

Celebrating 100 Episodes of Storytelling

 

This week the podcast celebrated a significant milestone, reaching its 100th episode! Fittingly, the conversation focused on the importance of storytelling and featured Dr. Jervaise Pileggi and Melody Alvarez. Hosted by Scott Anderson, this episode emphasized how stories—whether through books, oral traditions, or digital mediums—can foster connections, preserve history, and nurture development.

Childhood Reading -Building a Foundation:  Jervaise Pileggi took listeners on a journey back to her childhood, where she was introduced to an array of books at a very young age. These experiences ignited her passion for reading—a passion profoundly supported by her mother. This anecdote underlined the significance of childhood reading in Jervaise's life. Both guests emphasized the need for bonding and conversations with children while reading, particularly at the dinner table, a practice that can transform reading into a shared family activity and help develop strong reader identities in children.

The Transformative Power of Repeat Reading:  A call to revisit favorite books was another significant theme. Scott reflected on his experiences re-reading "Jurassic Park", noting how each reading provides fresh insights and evolving perspectives. Jervaise Pileggi echoed this sentiment, sharing her personal relationship with classic works like "Harry Potter" and "Wuthering Heights". The consensus was clear: returning to familiar stories as we age can reveal new layers of understanding and meaning, influenced by our growing knowledge and life experiences.

Libraries - Pillars of the Community:  Highlighting the critical role of libraries, Melody Alvarez, who works at the Pikes Peak Library District, discussed the variety of free programming the library offers for all ages. Libraries serve as community hubs, connecting patrons to local resources and organizations and preserving the community's history and values. Particularly noted was the importance of access to diverse books and the growing challenge of book banning. Alvarez articulated the pressing need for libraries to provide a safe space for all readers, advocating for the inclusion of a wide range of narratives to reflect and respect the diversity within communities.

The Value of Oral Storytelling:  Melody Alvarez showcased the significance of oral storytelling, a practice that transcends generations. Oral traditions not only foster family bonds but also spur cognitive development in children. These shared narratives help instill family values and preserve cultural heritage. Alvarez also highlighted the various resources available at public libraries, such as local history departments, which document and celebrate the community's evolution.

Fostering a Love for Reading:  Encouraging young readers was another focal point of the discussion. Jervaise Pileggi emphasized the lasting impact of promoting a love for reading, citing a personal story where a former student’s enthusiasm for books was rekindled. Whether choosing graphic novels or audiobooks, it's essential to let kids explore their preferences and engage with stories that resonate with them. Conversing with children about their reading choices further enriches their experience, making reading a dynamic and interactive process.

Adult Reading Habits and Options:  Jervaise delved into her research on adult reading habits, revealing that many avid readers tend to abandon reading during their college years and early adulthood, only to rediscover their passion later in life. Discussing the increased availability of reading formats, such as audiobooks and modern retellings, Jervaise encouraged adults to explore these options, especially since audiobooks cater to a multitasking lifestyle. The notion that adults shouldn't feel pressured to finish every book was also underscored, emphasizing literature's role in meeting social-emotional needs without any rigid constraints.

This episode wove together personal anecdotes, research insights, and community values, celebrating the enduring power of stories. Whether through childhood reading, revisiting favorites, or leveraging library resources, storytelling remains a pivotal element in shaping lives and fostering community bonds. By nurturing a love for stories, we not only enrich our individual experiences but also contribute to preserving and evolving our collective cultural heritage.