“One School, Many Books” brings students and adults together through reading
One School, Many Books is an annual program at Prep in which students choose a book from a list, similar to summer reading. The books were all chosen by faculty and staff.
The books aren’t reviewed in English classes. Instead, students are grouped together based on their book choice and, after a quick quiz, discuss a book with the adult who suggested the book. A grade from this test or discussion is counted towards the students’ English grades, but One School, Many Books is less about grades and more about sharing an enthusiasm for reading, according to coordinator Mr. Richard Younce.
Tuesday, August 28, was the day devoted to the book discussions, with grades 8 and above participating.
Coach Jimmy Nix, who has passionately read Jeffrey Archer’s Kane and Abel seven times, was excited to lead a discussion with students who had just encountered it for the first time. Across campus, other adult members of the Prep community had similar experiences sharing books they loved.
“I enjoyed discussing topics that are important to me besides the subject I teach,” said Ms. Paige Polk, whose book was Love Does by Bobb Goff.
Works read and discussed included literary novels, romances, memoirs, self-help books, science fiction, fantasy, and other genres.
Math teacher Ms. Kimberly van Uden said,“I had a fun group! My book was super girly, so I sat on the floor with all my girls and had a great discussion on Big Little Lies.”
“I felt like it went really well it opened up the girls’ eyes and broaden their view to let them know it’s ok to be different than their friends people will remember her for her kindness,” said Ms. Vianne Welch, who led a small group in a discussion of Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli.
After discussions, coffee, cinnamon rolls, and brownies were served on Patriot Avenue.
The event seemed to be enjoyed by faculty and students alike. Mr. Younce said, “I was very pleased. I am grateful to all the faculty who gave all the time and effort.”
