At the end of every academic year, returning students are given a list of books to read over the summer break.

Novels include “The Giver” by Lois Lowry, “A Tale of Two Cities” by Charles Dickens, “The Scarlet Letter” by Nathaniel Hawthorne and “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen.

Junior Megan Wells said, “I love to read for fun all the time, so I don’t mind doing the summer assignments. They expose me to a variety of books that I would have never considered reading.”

While reading each book, students must write journal entries reflecting a selected passage. Reflections provoke critical thinking and allow students to form opinions of the book.

Junior Kristen Barroga also enjoys reading. “I think it is important to keep your brain active over the summer and reflecting on well known works is a great way to do that.” 

When they return in the fall, students and teachers have the opportunity to talk about their thoughts and views of the books.

English Teacher Jill Semmens said, “Summer reading provides a foundation for review in the beginning of the next school year. It is a common source to begin the discussion on literature.”