The Great Stories CLUB (Connecting Libraries, Underserved teens and Books) is a reading and discussion program that targets underserved, troubled teen populations.
The program reaches teens through books that are relevant to their lives, inviting them to read and keep the books, and encourages them to consider and discuss each title with a group of their peers.
It seeks to show that reading can be a source of pleasure, a tool of self-exploration, and a meaningful way to connect to the wider world. Its ultimate goal is to inspire young adults who face difficult situations to take control of their lives by embracing the power of reading.
I have received the books in early January and began reading and discussing Gary Soto's Afterlife with our first group of students the first week of February. The group meets twice weekly for one hour and will earn either 1 English credit or 1 Elective credit. I moderate the group, occasionally the community liaison will join us, as will other staff members who pop in briefly to join in the discussion for a few minutes.
We have 7 boys involved in the group. The boys enjoy reading aloud with each other and engage in deep philosophical discussions about the various themes brought up in the book.
