READ Aloud with INTENT
A Framework for Purposeful and Powerful Read-Alouds
Dr Jen O'Sullivan and Dr Clara Maria Fiorentini
Published by ABC Publications, 2026
Reading aloud is one of the most valued and enjoyable experiences in the primary classroom. But how can we make the most of these precious opportunities to support children's language, literacy and learning?
READ Aloud with INTENT brings together research, classroom practice and a shared love of children's literature to help teachers plan and deliver purposeful, engaging and effective read-alouds.
At the heart of the book is the INTENT Framework, a practical, research-informed approach that supports teachers in making thoughtful decisions before, during and after reading aloud. The book explores how high-quality children's literature can be used to develop vocabulary, oral language, background knowledge and comprehension, while also creating meaningful opportunities for play, writing and connections across texts. We believe that purposeful instruction and the joy of sharing a wonderful book can, and should, go hand in hand.
The INTENT Framework
-
I — Identify the Purpose
-
N — Name & Navigate the Text
-
T — Target Questions, Prompts, Vocabulary & Concepts of Print
-
E — Establish Background Knowledge & Spark Curiosity
-
N — Narrate the Text
-
T — Transfer & Extend the Learning
Who is the book for?
Written with primary teachers in mind, particularly those working with younger children, the book is also a useful resource for student teachers, teacher educators and anyone interested in making the most of children's literature in early literacy education. Across ten chapters, we combine research-informed insights with practical strategies, examples and ideas that teachers can adapt to their own classrooms. Our hope is that the book will help teachers feel more confident and purposeful in their read-aloud practice, while keeping children's enjoyment, curiosity and engagement with books at its heart.
Where to buy the book
READ Aloud with INTENT: A Framework for Purposeful and Powerful Read-Alouds is available from ABC Publications.
About the Authors
Dr Clara Maria Fiorentini and Dr Jen O'Sullivan are lecturers in Literacy Education at Marino Institute of Education, Dublin, and former primary school teachers. They share a passion for children's literature, early literacy development and connecting research with meaningful classroom practice.
