Pleasure Read Book Club

The Algonquin Library hosts a series of book discussion groups called Pleasure Read led by Ms. Rebecca Ekstrom, School Library Media Specialist and Mrs. Cindy Dowd, 7th and 8th grade Literacy Teacher. Students who sign up to participate read any book from a genre of their choice, preferably one from the Algonquin Middle School Library. Each student comes prepared to share their book. They write down a synopsis, along with their thoughts on grade level, genre, book rating and any personal comments. They also will be deciding if the book is thought provoking, a page turner or has a great first page.

The last meeting of this school year’s Pleasure Read took place on Tuesday, April 24th. 18 students attended along with three faculty members. Everyone participated in group discussion of excellent books as snacks were enjoyed. For this book club, genres range from science fiction to realistic fiction to romance. When asked why they come to Pleasure Read, one enthusiastic Algonquin student said, “It sounded like fun to talk about our books and see friends. It was!” When asked what they liked about Pleasure Read, one student said, “Every time I go I can have a fresh choice of books.” Another AMS student commented, “I liked talking about our books the most, but I really enjoyed everything. I will come back again!” A third student said, “I like the part when everyone shared their books and now I know some great books to read.”

Some might say one of the best parts of Pleasure Read is the respectful debate and thought provoking questions that create discussion. A book may be compared or contrasted with another book or with another series. Deeper discussion might also include the theme of a book and its relation to current events today. Pleasure Read is a forum where students can share their favorite books, meet new people, learn about new books they can read and express themselves.