Great post, Henry. I would be very interested in attending a follow up to the how to read a novel series, as well as how to read a poem. And reading lists....!
I was thinking of ChatGPT for Point 4. We’re hearing of this use case in schools: kids are chatting to, almost tutoring, ChatGPT about a particular subject or topic and using that to see where their gaps are.
I think a How to Read a Poem series would be excellent. Have you explored recording some pre-recorded classes via e.g. Idler Academy or Teachable so that those who can’t make your lives classes can still partake?
Fellow Common Readers: This new site <Shepherd.com> is in Beta yet functional. I really like the concept: Authors recommend five books around a theme. The site allows you to search by topic or favorite book, or author. The site seeks to use technology to facilitate a human touch.
I often find myself reading a serious of thematic books until I realize I have an understanding of the period, the people,and what each author is communicating about it. It could take a lifetime, so limiting it to five is a great idea. Then again, not every author is communicating the same message.
Henry, the exponential increase in current events of importance, and the need to keep up with the present as well as to be able to put it into historical context. It is not just the news but the backstories written by those in a position to know, as well as where similar events are found in the past.
I am delighted that my question received such a thoughtful, considered response! Loved this essay, thank you Henry.
Great question!
Great post, Henry. I would be very interested in attending a follow up to the how to read a novel series, as well as how to read a poem. And reading lists....!
Great stuff Henry. Thanks for writing it.
I was thinking of ChatGPT for Point 4. We’re hearing of this use case in schools: kids are chatting to, almost tutoring, ChatGPT about a particular subject or topic and using that to see where their gaps are.
I think a How to Read a Poem series would be excellent. Have you explored recording some pre-recorded classes via e.g. Idler Academy or Teachable so that those who can’t make your lives classes can still partake?
I'm very excited for chatgpt in education. Was just using it with my 7yo today. Nice idea about recorded sessions, will investigate...
Fellow Common Readers: This new site <Shepherd.com> is in Beta yet functional. I really like the concept: Authors recommend five books around a theme. The site allows you to search by topic or favorite book, or author. The site seeks to use technology to facilitate a human touch.
I was invited to participate and here's the link to my recs as an example of how it works: https://shepherd.com/best-books/the-hidden-history-of-america
NOTE: I was not paid to create a list nor do I receive any remuneration for sharing or talking about the Shepherd site.
I often find myself reading a serious of thematic books until I realize I have an understanding of the period, the people,and what each author is communicating about it. It could take a lifetime, so limiting it to five is a great idea. Then again, not every author is communicating the same message.
I would love it if you did another series on ‘How to Read a novel’ and a poetry series would be great too. Yes, to the reading list!
How To Read A Novel....yes please 👍
Please do another How to Read a Novel series!
👋🏼hi, new subscriber here! where do i find the first How to Read a Novel series you did?
Henry, the exponential increase in current events of importance, and the need to keep up with the present as well as to be able to put it into historical context. It is not just the news but the backstories written by those in a position to know, as well as where similar events are found in the past.
Yeh but you have to only read the news so much