A Good Read is Easy to Discuss

There’s no Oprah leading the discussion, but the Middle School Book Club is generating excitement and getting students to put down their devices and pick up a good read!

Initiated by English teacher Allison Ehrenreich, the club is a pilot program this year. To date, club members – which includes students and faculty members – have read two books: The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie and Turtles All the Way Down by John Green.

“It’s been a huge success,” said Miss Ehrenreich. “The whole goal is to get our students to read in a more formal way, outside of class. It’s just reading for reading’s sake over cookies!”

In discussing The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian, discussion centered around relevant issues such as identity and friendship. According to Middle School Director Brian Christman, students felt a connection to the characters and their experiences because the protagonist is a ninth grader.

The Book Club reads one book a month and then gathers to chat (over some goodies!) about the content. Those who participate on a regular basis will have the opportunity to earn academic credit for their English class.

Students have also been encouraged to get a library card in their communities to take out books each month.

“Part of the goal behind this project is to inspire and encourage reading outside the classroom. A library card is a wonderful place to start, maintained Mr. Christman.

Parents and family members are also encouraged to read along with their child to facilitate thoughtful literary discussion.

The final two books planned for May are Serefina and the Black Cloak by Robert Beatty and The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd.