I revisited the memories of some of the book clubs I had organized in elementary schools. Over the years, the kids and I had explored some amazing( and often difficult) books. But how could that experience be adapted or translated to today’ s chaotic and digitally driven universe? How could it be made fun?
I approached a few of my friends and invited them to take part in a multi-generational book club of sorts. They would read a specific book with their grandchild and take part in associated activities that I had planned. They could read over video chat or in person: flexibility was key for buy-in.
The initial response was enthusiastic, but then the excuses started. With sports, dance classes, lessons, and tutors, the parents weren’ t enthusiastic for one more thing on their schedule. But when some of the kids were tagged by their teachers as lagging in reading, the parents bought into the idea. In the end, four children and three sets of grandparents followed through with the project.
Each“ team” was provided with a copy of the e-book to be shared freely, although some chose to use the actual hard copy. One participant changed books but continued to read with her grandmother every Thursday afternoon. Her grandmother shared,“ She didn’ t want to read at first, but I would plead that my eyes were tired, and she would pick up where I left off. We would read approximately forty-five minutes every week. NOT ONCE did she gravitate to the family computer or her Chrome book.” They’ ve since continued with a new book!
The whole project took about six to eight weeks to complete. There were no date requirements or deadlines— it was just an honour system. Based on the feedback, I suspect that this“ book club” will long be remembered by the kids when they are older and wiser. Beyond the practice of reading, there’ s a special and unique kind of bonding that happens between the juniors and seniors in these matchups.
Which Books Work Best?
Enjoyable for both children and grandparents
Relatively short and humorous
Features child protagonists who have agency to solve problems without adults
Anne used Harris and Me by Gary Paulsen
If any part of this story represents reality in your family, put on your thinking cap during the cold and cozy days of winter and see if there is some way to welcome a child into the incredible world of reading for pleasure. But don’ t do as I did and just hand them a book; follow through with cunning and love and enthusiasm. Find some fun together.
And don’ t overlook bribery!
Anne Letain is a retired teacher – librarian who taught in a number of public and Catholic schools in Alberta as well as at an international school in Zürich, Switzerland. Anne remains deeply concerned about the current state of childhood literacy as reading scores continue to drop.
WINTER 2025 | 29