I learned to dream through reading, learned to create dreams through writing, and learned to develop dreamers through teaching. I shall always be a dreamer. Come dream with me.

In this quote, Sharon Draper reflects on the transformative power of dreams and the role they have played in shaping her life and work. She begins by stating that she "learned to dream through reading," suggesting that books and stories opened her mind to new possibilities and imaginative worlds. Reading, for Draper, was the gateway to understanding the vast expanse of human experience and potential, which sparked her own ability to create dreams through writing. Writing, in turn, became a tool for self-expression and for building worlds that others could engage with, inspiring them to dream as well.

Draper continues by saying she learned to "develop dreamers through teaching," emphasizing her role as an educator and mentor. In her teaching, she encourages her students to not only imagine but also to actively pursue their dreams, fostering a sense of possibility and empowerment in those she teaches. By guiding others to see their potential, Draper becomes an active participant in shaping the future of her students, helping them turn their dreams into action.

The origin of this quote comes from Sharon Draper, an award-winning author and educator known for her work with young readers, particularly in the realms of fiction and young adult literature. Draper is passionate about the power of education and literature to inspire and uplift individuals, especially young people who are navigating their own aspirations. Her words reflect her deep commitment to cultivating dreamers who can envision and create a better future for themselves and the world.

In essence, Draper’s quote highlights the interconnectedness of dreaming, creating, and teaching. She suggests that dreams are not only something we imagine but something we can actively nurture in ourselves and others. By combining reading, writing, and teaching, Draper shows how dreams can become a cycle of inspiration that empowers individuals to pursue their passions and transform their lives.