We welcome Robert Topp, owner of The Hermitage Bookshop in Denver, Colorado, and reader-aloud extraordinaire, volunteering in the public schools for more than 28 years. As the founder of Read Me a Story, Ink, he has provided a fabulous resource for parents and teachers who would love to read out loud but need a little help in finding the next story or book to share. Searchable, with many printable and downloadable selections, more than 60 audio recordings of stories read by Robert Topp, and lists galore, this is a treasure trove of great ideas you’ll turn to again and again. When Bob isn’t at the bookstore or reading in the schools, you can find him at the family farm, Topp Fruits, a certified organic orchard providing nutrient-dense food to Colorado. We asked Bob to share his answers to our Skinny Dip questions.
One green thing I wish everyone would do:
Boycott plastics, especially bags, straws, and to-go containers.
The book I wish everyone would read:
Daniel Pinkwater’s The Big Orange Splot
The best way to stay fit:
Workouts at the gym four days per week.
My philosophy:
After reading aloud I always have my students hold up three fingers for the three things you should do every day of your life: something good for your body; something good for your mind; something good for the world.
Proudest moment in my career:
Receiving the Everyday Hero award from Channel 7 for reading aloud in the public schools.
I never thought I would:
Own a bookstore for 48 years.
I don’t believe in:
Hatred
The movie I watch when I want to laugh:
Zoolander
I’m currently reading:
Gouverneur Morris: An Independent Life by William Adams and Young Explorer’s Adventure Guide, Volume 6.
What’s on my nightstand:
Books, books, books
My hero is:
Bullwinkle
My favorite holiday tradition:
Cooking as a family on Thanksgiving
The piece of clothing in my closet I can’t let go:
A t-shirt purchased at the time of my older son's birth (34 years ago) that reads, "If you love me, read me a story."
What a good philosophy!