Encourage people to give books to my students

The books keep coming in! Last week, while I was home for spring break, I received about 50 books, most in packages of about 3-5 books. I’m sure the UPS man was wondering what was going on.:) And they’re still arriving!

I unveiled the books for the students yesterday. Everyone got to choose at least one. They couldn’t believe it when I told them they should write their names inside! I’ve been giving little “book talks” on some of the books over the past week, so kids were familiar with most of the titles. I was glad to see that a bunch of them picked the Sharon Draper books. I know they’re going to love her!

With the books that are still arriving and anymore that folks contribute (look here for the list), I’ll let kids choose more books and start a book swap box. Thanks again to all you wonderful, kind-hearted people!

After not looking at the wish list for a couple of days, I checked in this afternoon and found that almost 40 books have been purchased. Then, while trying to catch up on cheering people’s generosity, I discovered a group that’s formed their own goal to give my students books. I started crying as I read their entries. I have rarely in my life been at a loss for words, but I am now. I don’t know how to thank everyone enough. I wish I could hug you all! (((((HUGS)))))

I just checked the wish list I put together and almost 20 books have been donated so far. I’m amazed at everyone’s generosity and kind hearts. Thank you to whomever bought those books—my students will be thrilled! I have about 55 students, so I almost have enough for half of them.

I wrote elsewhere about working with my students and some of the challenges I face with them. One challenge that I would like to do something about is the fact that many of them don’t own any books. So I’ve started this goal to try to get enough books to give away to them to keep for their own. Thanks to those of you who encouraged me to start a list, you can view it here or you can search for a wish list under the name Shazamela.

I’ve put together a list of books that I know to be sure-fire winners with middle school students. Many of the titles are part of a series, so I hope students will get hooked and want to read more. I’d also love to get some suggestions, if anyone out there is a YA lit fan.