Book Clubs: Beyond the Book

This week, students participated in their third round of book club meetings (aka literature circles) related to our dystopian novel unit. Why a dystopian novel unit and what's all the hype?

Essentially, dystopian novels explore what life could be like if citizens don't pay attention to today's problems (environment, government, social issues, etc.). They offer a range of opportunities that promote the development of critical thinking skills and deep discussion. "Dystopian novels are known to be characterized by an imaginary future world or society, tightly controlled inhabitants, conformity as good and individuality as bad, and a main character who is frustrated by the controls and acts in spite of them." - James Patterson.

Hmmm… Perhaps this genre resonates with kids because, to some extent, they are beginning to experience some of the same challenges as the novels’ characters (relatively speaking, of course) - their struggles against unfair "authoritarian regimes” with little control over their own lives.

As a teacher, I love dystopian novels for their prevailing themes of HOPE and DETERMINATION. This genre inspires students to consider their own world beyond the book (the pinnacle of comprehension!). Maybe it's the idea that our world or society can change and that anyone, including young people (yes, even 5th graders), have the power to change it. What's more, is that these novels promote the development of empathy and analytical thinking skills - sure signs of maturing minds.

Top 3 Reasons Why Students 💜 book clubs:

1.They’re fun.

It’s a social learning experience. Students help each other understand a text and make sense of it. They use each other as resources and become independent learners. Students are expected to talk A LOT; to debate and argue their ideas. Students are encouraged to bring their experiences and feelings to the meetings and to share them.

2. They involve choice.  

Through the experience of a "book tasting", students are given the opportunity to evaluate a selection of books (in this case, a selection of six dystopian novels), rank the books according to their interests and from there, book club groups are formed. Choice leads to deeper engagement, increased intrinsic motivation, and an opportunity for guided decision-making.

3. Connections are made.  

When the classroom learning experience is positive, students feel more connected to school and are motivated to learn. This can lead to more positive academic interactions with classmates and teachers and overall increased academic success.

Aguilar, Elena. “The Power of Literature Circles in the Classroom.” Edutopia, 30 Nov. 2010
"Dystopian Genre: Why Kids Love Reading About The Bad Place." WeAreTeachers, 27 June 2017, www.weareteachers.com/the-bad-place-why-kids-love-dystopias-2/.