The power of storytelling in language acquisition cannot be overstated. Recently, I had the privilege of interviewing two accomplished CI (Comprehensible Input) authors, Jennifer Degenhardt and Theresa Marrama, in a fascinating conversation about their journey as educators and writers. The Secret of Comprehensible Readers not only provided insight into their writing process but also illuminated the personal experiences that have shaped their compelling stories for language learners.
From Teachers to Storytellers: The Journey of Jen and Terry
Both Jen and Terry began as passionate language teachers, committed to making Spanish and French more accessible to their students. However, like many educators, they encountered challenges in engaging learners—especially those with learning differences. Rather than accept the limitations of traditional materials, they took matters into their own hands and began writing books tailored to their students’ needs.
Their evolution from teachers to authors was not without its struggles. They initially faced fears and self-doubt about writing in a second language, but their strong connections to Hispanic and Francophone cultures motivated them to push forward. Their personal experiences—such as studying abroad and forming friendships with native speakers—became the foundation of their stories, making their narratives not only linguistically accessible but also culturally authentic.
Watch the interview here:
Literature as a Bridge to Understanding
Throughout our discussion, a central theme emerged: literature has the power to connect students to diverse human experiences. Both authors emphasized that well-crafted stories serve as bridges between cultures, helping students see the world from different perspectives. Their books reflect this mission by incorporating universal themes of empathy, perseverance, and identity.
Jen and Terry also reflected on the impact of their favorite childhood books, demonstrating how literature shaped their own identities and pedagogical approaches. This personal reflection reinforces the idea that reading is more than just an academic exercise—it is a transformative tool that fosters connection and understanding.
Creating Worlds That Resonate with Learners
One of the most compelling aspects of Jen and Terry’s work is how they craft stories that truly resonate with students. Their books are not only comprehensible but also deeply engaging because they reflect real-world experiences. From depicting the challenges of navigating new cultures to addressing learning differences in the classroom, their writing is designed to be relatable and impactful.
Their teaching environments—whether in rural schools or diverse urban settings—have given them a deep understanding of what students need in order to feel connected to a story. As a result, they create books that serve as both mirrors (allowing students to see themselves) and windows (introducing them to new perspectives).
More Conversations to Come
This interview with Jen and Terry was just the beginning. I will continue to explore the world of CI literature by speaking with more talented authors who are transforming the way we teach languages. These conversations will highlight how personal and cultural experiences shape storytelling, making language learning more meaningful for students.
Stay tuned for more insightful discussions with CI authors as we uncover the magic behind comprehensible readers. If you’re passionate about helping your students fall in love with language through engaging literature, these upcoming interviews are not to be missed!
Please suggets a CI writer for me to interview at diego@srojeda.com
DIEGO OJEDA 