- Mississippi Free Press

An illustration of children riding books, pencils and animals in the sky

Opinion | Reading for Pleasure Builds Empathy in Children, But Fewer Kids Read for Fun

by William Dee Nichols and Michelle Kearney September 17, 2026September 17, 2026

William Dee Nichols and Michelle Kearney write about the benefits of children reading for leisure and how it builds empathy.

Two children's books, titled 'Grandma's hands' and 'Song in the City,' show Black children on the cover in illustrations

Opinion | Children’s Books About Black People’s Lives Help All Kids Explore What It Means to be Human

by Wintre Foxworth Johnson, Brooke Harris Garad, Jennifer D. Turner and Tiffany D. Meadows September 8, 2026September 8, 2026

A room with people sitting at conference tables that form a square, and others listening from the edges of the room

News

Most Mississippi Third Graders Passed the ‘Reading Gate’ on the First Attempt

by Torsheta Jackson May 26, 2026June 25, 2026

Three teachers seated at a table, discussing materials during a training session.

News

Mississippi Pilots New Program to Support Adolescent Literacy

by Samuel Hughes, Nischit Sharma and RHCJC News November 21, 2025

Three students sit at a desk while they read books

Opinion | Mississippi’s Education Miracle: A Model for Global Literacy Reform

by Harry Anthony Patrinos May 19, 2025May 16, 2025

A child works on a puzzle made from colorful geometric shapes

News

Mississippi Tests Kindergarten Readiness with New Exam Amid Ongoing Literacy Push

by Torsheta Jackson September 19, 2024September 19, 2024

Person of the Day | Emily Liner: Columbus Bookstore Owner Promotes Literacy Through New Festival

by Dustin Cardon August 21, 2024August 21, 2024