We’ve all been spending more time looking at screens these days, or at least I sure have. Whether it’s for work, school, or unwinding with the latest binge watch, I take in a lot of content. But what I seem to be having a hard time doing is reading. I recently saw a blog post written by a teacher who made the same comment. Usually, at this time of year, she is working with her students to help them set up their summer reading lists. They talk about favorite authors, things they want to learn, and make recommendations to one another.
Well, I don’t know about you, but I could use that sort of help and encouragement to get back into the reading-for-pleasure habit. So today, let’s create our plan for summer reading. Write it down on a sheet of paper, or, if your plan is elaborate, go ahead and make a poster. Parents, you set an example when the kids see you reading. So, make sure you create a plan, too.
Some things to think about when you are making that list:
Read to learn: something new or something you’re curious about
Read to laugh: humorous characters, situations, comics
Read your favorites: because you want to
Read diversely: learn about characters or people whose lives are different than yours; read to find kindred spirits
Read something new: genres that you haven’t tried like historical, mystery, realistic, non-fiction, science fiction, or a new format like a graphic novel, a novel-in-verse, audiobook, diary, short story, or play
Read aloud: time spent together reading is some of the best time you can spend, so read to your children, let them read to you, or do a family reader’s theater and take turns
Read and share: tell your friends what you are reading and ask what they are reading; have an online book club
Parents: go here for some tips to keep your kids reading throughout the summer.
Need help adding books to your list? Go here, fill out the “Your Next Read” online form, and we’ll give you some suggestions! We can’t wait to talk about books with you in person! Until then, connect with us via our remote Call Center (10 am to 2 pm, Monday thru Friday) at 331-251-8609 or via email at reference followed by @gepl.org.
Here are some of the books on my summer reading list:
Me and Sam-Sam Handle the Apocalypse by Susan Vaught
Max y La Pandilla Medieval / Max and the Midknights by Lincoln Pierce
How to Give Your Cat a Bath in Five Easy Steps by Nicola Winstanley