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Book Club with Richard

8/21/2016

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What is the most important thing about your club? What are you hoping to accomplish?

You'll want to prioritize. I'm assuming you want him to comprehend the book and discuss with you in a dynamic way. But, also, you want to create an atmosphere of trust and communication. This isn't an either/or proposition but, there are going to be times when you have to know which one you're prioritizing. 

The other reason to think about this question going forward, primarily, is to think about how you will curate future book choices. Do you want this book club to be a way you spend time with Richard? Are you willing to compromise on book choices so that Richard's enjoyment overrides yours? Or do you want to discuss and mutually agree on a new book going forward? Do you want to push him outside his comfort zone? Do you want to read books you've already read but with him?


​From a previous post: Structural Things to think About for Book Clubs


Possible Books
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1. My Side of the Moutain
Guided Reading: Level U

This book is right on level for a 5th grade reader. This is a Newbery Honor book from the 1960s. This is part of a trilogy (On the Far Side of the Mountain and Frightful's Mountain) so if he likes it, he can continue on without you.

Having known he likes the Survivor book series, it would make perfect sense that he'd also like realistic fiction books in the surviving nature category. This is certainly that!
2. Maniac MaGee
Guided Reading: Level W

This is a 6th grade level reading book and also a Newbery Medal winner.

This is another author like Louis Sachar (who Richard noted as his favorite) who also has written many, many books. 

This book works in some race relations, if you're looking to get into that discussion. But it also leaves it open enough that if you don't want to press the issue at the moment for discussion, you can just read the good story.
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3. Liar & Spy
Guided Reading: Level R

This one would be a bit below Richard's reading level BUT sometimes that's a good thing. When you're starting something new and you want it to be a positive experience, you may not want the reading to be the difficult part. 

The story is a good read (ask Mary!) and allows you to think about shifting friendships and social dynamics as kids get older. 
4. Because of Mr. Terupt
Guided Reading: Level R

Another book that is a bit lower than Richard's reading level. However, this book does center on a 5th grade classroom, making it timely. 

The teacher is an off-beat, first year teacher who really connects with his kids but also lands himself in trouble because of it. The story does not end sad (in case you were worried) and it is part of a series of 3 (Saving Mr. Terupt and Mr. Terupt Falls Again). 
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5. Call of the Wild
Guided Reading: Level Y

This book is leveled closer to a 7th grade book, and as you know, a classic.

It's a bit of a twist on The Hatchet (or the other way around, ha!) since the main character is the dog. 

One of the more interesting things about this book is that it was actually in the Saturday Evening Post magazine first as a series of writing, and then released as a full volume book afterward.

And, a great movie to watch too! You can go on to read White Fang.
6. The Cay
Guided Reading: Level V

This book is a classic and one he is unlikely to read in school anymore. 

This book will hit home some racial tension themes but in a survivalist manner so it blends the two worlds for Richard, if you want. 

It's appropriate for middle grade students and timely with what's going on in the news.
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7. Where the Red Fern Grows
Guided Reading: Level X

This book is leveled at middle of 6th grade - right on level for Richard.

This book also is on my ideal bookshelf (I still remember reading it over 20 years ago). Beware, it is a tearjerker. 

It is a coming of age and of letting go story told just perfectly. 
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Mother/Daughter Book Club

7/6/2016

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Congratulations!

This is my daughter's favorite word as a three year old. Whenever I ask her, "Why are you congratulating me?" She answers, "Because I love you!"

Now, while I would normally say, this is not exactly what we use the word for - another part of me thinks, you know...it's true. There's nothing that says she has to say she loves me - so I take it as genuine sentiment and she's choosing to say it out loud (she's little yet, as you know, so we'll see if this changes).

​Both of your kid's trust in you is really nice and it's partially manifesting in their willingness to read books that you give them. So, why not read a book or two together?

For adults, this can be a very intimate experience and reading together creates lasting bonds.


So it really is a cause for celebration. 

Here are some guiding questions to think about if you want to have a family book club. 

What is it? What does family book club entail?

Family book clubs are a way for families to connect in a different way. It gives you and your kids the language to talk through tough topics, to learn to listen well to each other and to have fun. And, it happens when at least 2 of you read the same book on your own but at the same time. 

Usually, you mutually decide on a book together, but sometimes one person can suggest a book and you both read it.

Almost all the Moms I've helped start book clubs with their kids use it as a way to have fun with a kid - not as a way to force reading or check comprehension. Those things happen naturally when it's set-up correctly.

Questions to think on for book club and if it's a right fit for you.


Structural Things to think About

Simple is best. Success is based on good structure and good norms, usually. Meetings are best when easily scheduled, consistent and timely. I find moms/kids find success in doing this quarterly - so 4 books per year. It feels like a breath of fresh air.

So, if this sounds like a possibility for you, think about the following: 
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  • When will you meet to discuss the book? Would you go on a "book club date"?

  • Where will you discuss? At home? Somewhere outside the house? Outside? 

  • Will you discuss at the end of the book? Check-in partway through? Something at the end of each chapter? 

  • Will you have good food as part of the discussion? (Kids are drawn to this, FYI)

  • Will your meeting time be consistent and easy? Or will it change?
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  • Do you want to have a hands-on activity to go with the book for your discussion time? Some book clubs have art activities, some watch clips, write letters to the author, etc.

​Mull it over. Think about how it could work with one or both older kids! 
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