The Magic of Talking About Books Together

Librarians Lisa Coleman and Liz Glazer with two Bluestem Award Books

While most people enjoy reading on their own, there are many benefits to being part of a book discussion group. At the library, we see the value in providing opportunities for people of all ages to explore a story on a deeper level and to share their thoughts and opinions with others. Youth librarians Lisa Coleman and Liz Glazer lead the Bluestem Award Book Discussion for students in grades 3–5. This is a program for children and adults to participate in together as they read through the Bluestem Award books. Lisa and Liz sat down to share more about their program and why kids and adults should consider attending a book discussion.

What does a typical Bluestem Award Book Discussion look like?
We prepare a presentation with short videos, information about the book, the author, related information, and discussion questions. We often have an activity or craft after the discussion as well. Usually, books related to the discussion are available for check out after the program. 

We encourage kids to be kind to each other in the discussion and allow everyone the chance to share. The discussion gives kids the opportunity to interact with each other outside of school, out in the real world, without worrying about getting graded. We hope they feel comfortable saying what they want to, in a safe, judgment-free space.

Why is it important for kids to talk about books, rather than just read them?
By discussing a book in a group setting, kids have the opportunity to share their thoughts with others and hear other kids' valuable perspectives. We all come from different backgrounds, and while we have many common experiences, each child brings their unique experience to share with others. We live in a community, not alone. It is good to practice using those social muscles, so to speak.

How do book discussions help children grow as readers and thinkers?
The books on the Bluestem list are diverse. There are nonfiction books, graphic novels, and fiction of all genres. We hope that through our book discussion, kids are introduced to books they might not ordinarily pick up as a first choice. Books can be windows into other people’s lived experiences, mirrors to reflect your own life, and doors to allow you to enter into another world. 

The Bluestem Award Book Discussion is a parent/child book group. Why is it valuable for parents to be part of these conversations alongside their children?
It gives parents and children a chance to interact and learn more about each other based on the book and how they choose to contribute. The parent can see how the child answers questions and participates in the discussion. Often, we can tell that parents and their children appreciate each other after they’ve shared their experiences. Children seem to appreciate their parents being part of the discussion and sharing their perspectives about the books. 

What do you hope families take away from participating?
The act of reading books and discussing them together is a worthwhile activity for families. It allows them to share ideas and perspectives in an engaging and thoughtful manner. 

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At Vernon Area Public Library, there are book discussion groups for all ages–from elementary students to adults. For the more introverted, there’s even the Choose Your Own Adventure book club, where you read silently for an hour, then decide if you want to continue reading or chat with others. If you’ve never been part of a book discussion before, consider trying one out. It might enhance your reading experience in ways you never thought possible. 

Try one of these book clubs or discussion groups:
Bluestem Award Book Discussion ● grades 3–5 with adult
Rebecca Caudill Award Book Discussion ● grades 6–8
Off the Page: A Teen Book Club ● grades 8–12
Book Discussion with Judy Levin ● adults
Novel Night Book Discussion ● adults
Great Decisions Discussion Group ● adults
Choose Your Own Adventure: A Book Club ● adults