The following excerpts are taken from Memories & Dreams: An Anthology of Writings about the Family by Adult Learners and Their Children. Partners in Reading, the San Jose Public LIbrary's adult literacy program, published this book as the culmination of a Family Writing Project funded by the Junior League of San Jose.
-Ruth A. Kohan, Literacy Program Coordinator

I'm a Grandmother who is so proud

To be learning bigger and harder words each day.

Jamie has it better than my children.

They usually walked away.

 

My granddaughter likes it when I read.

She climbs up on my lap or knee.

We look at the words and many pictures.

It s a nice time for her with me.

 

Last year I read her a story.

My reading was just fair that day.

Last night she wanted that story.

It was an A, with a +, I'd say!

Little help did I get with reading.

'Til Sue heard about this library literacy program.

With help from three wonderful tutors

And a loving family, I've done just grand!

Mary has been a learner with PAR since 1994. She is originally from Oswego, NY. Her goal is to read more books and eventually get a good job. She enjoys writing poetry and stories. She can now read to her grandchildren. She also is able to read the front page of the newspaper on her own. Mary really enjoys working with her tutor. Mary's tutor is Nora Koehmstedt.

I can remember how

family used to be

when I was young

and growing up.

 

And it was hard for me

because I couldn't read

or write. I was frustrated

when things wouldn't go right.

 

Or wrong and they were there always

to help me along the way.

If I should stumble or fall

that s what I remember.

 

The most is that

they care enough to

be a family.

Robert, also known as the "Great Entertainer," has been with PAR for 5 years. In that time he has noticed improvements at work with his reading and writing skills. Robert both writes and designs his own cards, including Christmas and Valentine's Day Cards. He is married to Renay and has a brother in San Diego and parents living in Jamestown. Robert loves music and plays the guitar. He is looking forward to combining his poetry with his music, and the outcome is guaranteed to be beautiful. Robert's tutor is Pat Monteleone.