Reading Conversation and Life Opportunities!

This summer I challenged three of my favorite young peeps to read. I offered to read what ever books they chose. The deal was, we had to discuss the book in depth as we were reading through them. This way, I would know they had read the books. We met weekly and I spent time with each of them going over the chapters. If they came across words they didn’t know, they needed to google them, and make notes so we could talk about those words and any other areas of interest they noted. They could either text me as they went, or write a few paragraphs down about what they were reading. I would then ask questions, or comment on some aspect. Many times I asked how it made them feel. They could read at their own pace, but had to put in a half an hour a day. Pat’s grandchildren are 14, 12 and 10. In return for their hard work they were rewarded by Grandpa. Grandpa and I would talk about their effort and if it merited the reward. Grandpa agreed to pay out $20 a week.

So, here are some thoughts I want to share in what turned out to be an awesome summer of reading for all five of us. Pat’s grandchildren, Pat and myself.

First, the conversation that came with every book we read had life opportunities, that could be applied to todays world easily. The range in conversation from race, bullying, parent stress, death, cheating, sports, religion, economics, feelings, sex, crime, age, and the list just goes on and on, was phenomenal. Remember, they picked the books we read. The conversations were all based around their perspectives and take on the story. They talked about the parts that were interesting to them, scary, or caused them concern. Conversation, made easy with each one of them, because we were both reading the same materials. To have those conversations without the book as a common thread would probably never have happened, to the depth that it did. At least in the most honest and forthright since. Whether it was a 10 minute texting session or the one to one in person. It kept us in productive conversation from week to week all week long.

Second, the lessons on commitment were as powerful as the reading. If they didn’t do the time, they didn’t get the reward. Plain and simple, action consequence. There were a couple of tearful hold it together moments for each one as they let the reading slide and then couldn’t get it done by the time we met. So again, some open, honest dialog about what commitment means and fairness to all involved. We experienced a moment when one claimed to have read, but didn’t know the material. This led to a chat about cheating and fairness with grandpa and his cash and me and my time. Fortunately being honest was chosen and they were given the opportunity to make up the shortfall the next week. Not easy, watching your siblings pocket money, you were too lazy to earn and thought you could beat the system on, tagged with the embarrassment knowing you didn’t. A valuable lesson that will be carried for a life time.

Third, the books they chose ranged from pop novels, classics like the Box Car Children and non-fiction including a book on Babe Ruth and one on the Roaring 20’s!! As the summer progressed, it was a fun and fact filled adventure for Pat and I as the kids knocked off book after book. For instance did you know Babe Ruth was paid 80k annually to play baseball in the 20’s? I had no clue. I learned about Sally Ride as well. My point here is that my time spent, along with Pat’s commitment was well worth the time and effort. It has also left the door wide open for conversation on some of those tougher topics that aren’t so easy.

Whether you are a grandparent, aunt, uncle or just have a young person you mentor too, this challenge was enlightening for all. I don’t think the reward needs to be $20. It can be whatever you work out. We relied on their librarian at the public library to help with some book selection, when they were stumped on what to read. I will include the list of books below. This doesn’t have to be a summer thing, kids need extra reading all year long. The benefits far out weigh any monetary or time loss. If you are retired, or have some spare time…I encourage you to put together your own challenge. This is also a perfect way to engage your young peeps if they don’t live near you. It really offers a unique closeness. We are talking about continuing once they are in a routine with school. Also they could put the books they read toward their AR goals. All in all, definitely a win win.

Our Summer reading list…