This podcast episode explores the complexity of learning to read, emphasizing the importance of reading as a fundamental skill for accessing education. It delves into the two main components of reading - decoding and linguistic comprehension - and discusses the variability in the acquisition of reading skills among children. The challenges and trajectories of reading difficulties across languages are also examined, highlighting the impact of language transparency. The episode further discusses the progress made in decoding skills and the challenges in measuring language comprehension. The influence of technology on reading and the role of families and teachers in supporting literacy education are also explored. Finally, the potential of AI in education is discussed, emphasizing the need for human involvement in leveraging AI effectively.