All of my book club choices have 2 things in common: they are within the genre we’re studying and they are the first book of a series. Both of these things, in my opinion, are essential to purposefully and effectively using book clubs to support teaching and learning. Currently, we are finishing up realistic fiction, so here are some of the clubs I’ve been running!
*Note — these are not all going at the same time! I do about 4-6 depending on the size of the group. You will need make group sizes that work for you!
I’d like to add that I wouldn’t know about a handful of these books without having worked with such an amazing group of educators on ELA curriculum. Sharing so you may find a new book to add to your class shelves!
Because of Mr. Terupt by Rob Buyea — my current read aloud (has fantastic lessons to teach while reading!) and my kids are loving it. We will offer the sequel, Mr. Terupt Falls Again, as a club once we finish.
The Doughnut Fix by Jessie Janowitz — a personal favorite and has a sequel, The Doughnut King (my whole TDF club is moving on to TDK together!)
Wonder by R.J. Palacio — kids love it, they can watch a movie after, and it has a companion book, Auggie & Me (my whole W group is moving on to A&M!)
A Whole New Ballgame by Phil Bildner — not too deep, discusses autism traits, and is part of a trilogy. I can usually get reluctant boy readers into this series!
Amina’s Voice by Hena Khan — great themes, very diverse, and has a sequel, Amina’s Song.
Hatchet by Gary Paulsen — I like to do this one as a read aloud, but I am offering it as a book club this year! We will see how it goes, but the other class has read it and kids are begging for the sequel, The River.
Out of my Mind by Sharon M. Draper — another one where they can watch the movie, offers a different perspective than many are used to, and kids are looking forward to the sequel, Out of my Heart (while OOMM group is continuing on to OOMH!)
My main goal for book clubs, besides using them to teach and reinforce reading skills, is to keep students engaged in the process. I would hate if they finished the club and lost that momentum! Offering books that are part of a series is a great way to keep the ball rolling. Even if a whole club doesn’t want to move on, students who do can still enjoy independently!
Happy reading!
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