What are some ways of encouraging kids who hate reading, but need to improve their English skills through literature and writing?

I believe that reading to a child as early as the child is able to listen and encouraging the child's participation will form a base of interest and imagination which will move the young reader to pursue books as early as possible. Stories used as rewards for accomplishments or good behavior can give a positive relation to books and the ability to read them.

It's important to use age-appropriate books in readiing to a child. As the child matures, good literature such as The Wind in the Willows or The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe can stimulate a child's imagination and desire to read for himself/herself.