Articles & Publications

In her new Loving Literacy and Teaching Toolbox articles, Larissa draws on her dual role as a literacy specialist and children’s author, sharing heartfelt essays and practical tips that highlight what truly connects with young readers- really great picture books.

Some articles were originally published in StoryMonsters Ink, these articles sparkle with Larissa’s signature blend of warmth and expertise—offering real classroom stories, mentor text recommendations, creative writing projects, and thoughtful reflections on the magic of reading aloud.

Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or simply a lover of children’s books, you’ll discover meaningful ways to immerse kids in joyful literacy experiences—from building collaborative class books to nurturing safe, expressive spaces for story-time conversations. Each piece reflects Larissa’s deep commitment to helping every child feel seen, heard, and inspired through the power of literature.

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Stories That Stick

New Literacy Column by Reading Specialist Larissa Juliano (and previous Teaching Toolbox Columnist)

I’ve organized these groups and clubs throughout my teaching career, and wanted to show their description that I provided to staff and families. Try one at school or home!

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Loving Literacy: Learning to read AND Reading to Learn

New Literacy Column by Reading Specialist Larissa Juliano (and previous Teaching Toolbox Columnist)

My goal as a reading teacher at Nazareth Elementary is to not only give students the strategies to decode words and build phonics skills, but ALSO to spark background knowledge on old and new topics…

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Teaching Toolbox: Freshen up Fact Finding With Really FUN Books!

By Larissa Juliano Originally published in StoryMonsters Ink Magazine

My nine year old daughter has recently discovered the fascinating creature named, Axolotl. Oh, how she loves Axolotls! Did you know that they live in the riverways of Mexico?…

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Creating Class Books: Teaching Toolbox

By Larissa Juliano Originally published in StoryMonsters Ink Magazine

Children creating a classroom book for our book collection this year has been one of the most motivating and inspirational writing projects I’ve done in my 10 plus years of teaching. A class book is when each student contributes…

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Teaching Toolbox: Authentic, Cool Writing

By Larissa Juliano Originally published in StoryMonsters Ink magazine

This spring and summer…make a book! For teachers and students, the months of April through June are packed with so many end of the year activities, summer holiday happenings, graduation ceremonies and final assessments…