A MISSION TO
IGNITE IMAGINATIONS
We transform reading from
struggle to celebration
THE SOLUTION.
Children ages 8-15 aren’t reading for pleasure on their own time, which means comprehension, critical thinking, and overall wellbeing suffers. One Word at a Time addresses the root cause by making reading fun, engaging, and relevant.
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We connect authors and students directly to build reading communities through sustained engagement. In short, we make reading cool and fun!
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When reading becomes social, celebratory, and author-connected, kids are motivated to read more during their free time, which puts them on the path to becoming lifelong readers. Moreover, kids discover the power of words to express themselves, connect with others, and understand the world.
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One Word at a Time gives educators tools and support to do the important work of celebrating reading throughout the day, week, and year. And we support children’s authors who want to work with students to keep the reading-love alive.
Join this community of joyful readers and discover for yourself how we’re changing the world, together, one word at a time.
THE PROBLEM.
We work for a world in which…
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All young people read and write skillfully, with curiosity and independence.
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All educators are equipped with the knowledge and tools to support young peoples’ reading and writing with authenticity and enthusiasm.
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All emerging and established children’s book authors possess the skills to engage, entertain, and inspire young learners in educational settings.
We achieve our mission through…
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Literacy-driven interactive author experiences for students.
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Professional development opportunities for educators and caregivers.
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Workshops, writing retreats, and literacy-centered events for children’s book authors.
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Advocacy for independent reading and equitable access to books in schools and public libraries
Kwame is an Emmy® Award-winning producer, and #1 New York Times bestselling author of more than 40 books, including The Crossover, The Door of No Return series, the motivational primer Say Yes, and J vs. K, the illustrated novel he penned with Jerry Craft. He is also the executive producer of the PBS Animated special Acoustic Rooster and His Barnyard Band. Kwame founded AuthorStudy.com in 2023 and serves as the Artistic Director of Literary Arts for the Chautauqua Institution. Kwame has visited more than 2,000 classrooms over his career and knows how to light the spark of reading in young people. Visit KwameAlexander.com to learn more about his many projects, appearances, and accolades.
KWAME ALEXANDER
FOUNDER & CEO
Tori has a clear personal motto: Read books, fight evil. Across her career, she has been a passionate advocate for the life-changing power of reading and writing. Tori’s 25+ years in nonprofit work and education publishing has given her insight into the needs of educators and students – and instilled the creativity and flexible thinking needed to adapt to the ever-changing landscape. On weekends you’ll find her hiking, knitting, or reading a book on a rock along her beloved Maine coastline – sometimes all in the same afternoon.
TORI MELLO BACHMAN
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR &
CHIEF PROGRAM OFFICER
Michelle brings over 20 years' experience in multiple professional roles such as executive support, talent management, logistics, non-profit development and data management to One Word At A Time. In her spare time, she dances with an African/Afro-Contemporary dance company, runs a home-based bakery and enjoys spending time with her husband, kids, grand and six cats! As part of the One Word At A Time team, she is excited about helping children find new worlds to explore through reading and understand their personal agency through the use of words and writing.
IMPACT & ENGAGEMENT OFFICER
MICHELLE JEWELL
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Jarred Amato | Jordan Bookey | Tim Ditlow | Tiffany Jewell
Donalyn Miller | Jennifer Sniadecki | Rachael Walker
ADVISORY TEAM
““The mind of an adult begins in the imagination of a child.We’re not just trying to improve test scores—we’re trying to ignite imaginations. We want a love of reading to be woven into the fabric of a child’s identity.”
— Kwame Alexander, poet, author, and
founder of One Word at a Time