There is nothing better than finishing a great book and then finding out that a friend loved it as well. You get to share all your favorite parts, and revisit all the best characters. It’s a bonding experience to discuss books – love them or hate them.
It’s just as exciting for kids to share their favorite and not-so-favorite books. Discussing books improves reading comprehension and pushes kids to read outside of their comfort zone. A child who normally reads fantasy can also be persuaded to read a mystery if “everyone is reading it.”
Hosting a youth book club can be a very rewarding experience. If you are already leading a book group or would like to start one, the library is here to help. Youth Services for Book clubs include
- gathering sets of books for your group
- discussion guides with questions and background information on the author
- virtual meeting rooms for hosted Zoom sessions for your group
Here are a few favorite book discussion titles to get you started:
Harbor Me by Jacqueline Woodson
When six students are chosen to participate in a weekly talk with no adults allowed, they discover that when they’re together, it’s safe to share the hopes and fears they have to hide from the rest of the world. For grades 6-8.
New Kid by Jerry Craft
Seventh grader Jordan Banks loves nothing more than drawing cartoons about his life. But instead of sending him to the art school of his dreams, his parents enroll him in a prestigious private school known for its academics, where Jordan is one of the few kids of color in his entire grade. For grades 6-8.
Hope in the Holler by Lisa Lewis Tyre
The poignant–and funny–story of a girl trying to be brave and find her place in the world after she’s sent to live with scheming relatives. For grades 4-6.
A Boy Called Bat by Elana K. Arnold
When his mom brings home a baby skunk that needs rehabilitation, Bat resolves to prove that he is up to the challenge of caring for the skunk permanently. For grades 2-4.
Dragons and Marshmallows by Asia Citro
Zoey, and her cat, Sassafras, use science experiments to help a sick dragon. For grades K-2.