Yeshivah of Flatbush Book Clubs

Books in hand, students walked briskly, with their parents not far behind, to begin fun, yet intense, discussions at the 3rd and 4th Grade Parent/Child Book Clubs. These evenings, geared towards fostering and encouraging a child’s love of reading, were brought to fruition by PKRE (Parents and Kids Reading for Enjoyment).

“When you bring a book to life, you allow a child to think about things and discover things in fresh ways,” said Maggie Betesh, one of PKRE’s coordinators. “Once children are excited about reading, they are hooked for life.”

The book clubs began with students and parents breaking into small conversation groups to create an intimate and inviting setting for students to express their opinions. The books at issue were “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” by Roald Dahl (4th grade) and “Chocolate Fever” by Robert Kimmel Smith (3rd grade).

To start, volunteer group facilitators asked evaluative and reflective questions to give the kids an opportunity to express their opinions. Students used specific examples and proof from the texts to support their statements. Answers were introspective and thoughtful, and parents listened intently to what their children offered. Their responses showed they had been fully absorbed in the novel, with a complete understanding of the characters and the messages the author was trying to convey.

After the book talks, it was time for the Chocolate Creation Contests! Team tables were set up around the auditorium, each with boxes filled with mysterious ingredients. Each 4th grade team created a unique Willy Wonka Chocolate Factory using the ingredients, which included marshmallow fluff, frosting, cookies, candies, chocolates and much more. The teams had five minutes to plan before they began. Once the boxes were opened, the smell of candy and chocolate filled the air, creating a sensory experience to bring across the chocolate theme of the night. The discussion of the book prior to the contest helped students draw on inspirations from the novel, making reading three-dimensional! The creations were amazing—and original!

Third graders also enjoyed a sensory experience at their Chocolate Creation Contest. The students and parents decided on themes, ranging from amusement parks to the Winter Olympics, then using candy, cookies, chocolate, and fluff (a surprisingly good glue substitute), they created amazing chocolate projects and all creations were ultimately consumed.

The night was a great way for parents and students to share a love of reading. PKRE evenings engage children in an educational activity and establish an active reading community. The students are excited to continue reading for enjoyment; many have started the sequel to “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory!”

Faith Edeson is a staff writer for the YOF public relations office.