http://walpole.k12.ma.us/whs/site/files/2012summerreadingbooklist.pdf
As the end of the school year draws closer, lessons are coming to an end as students and the staff are preparing for their summer vacations. Recently the Summer Reading list was released, reminding many students that they have to select one of many various books to read over their multi-month long break. This year, which is the sixth continuous year for Walpole High School’s summer reading program, there are 62 books from all different genres that are available for student selection.
Student’s will be choosing their books in their English classes before the school year comes to and end. With this year’s long list, there are plenty of novels to choose from. The selection of books include plenty of fiction, non-fiction, biographies and autobiographies. There are also a number of different books that contain mystery, fantasy and adventure, humor, and drama. This way, students can choose books that interest them specifically, thus making them want to read recreationally.
The popular “Hunger Games Trilogy” by Suzanne Collins is expected to be a hit this summer, as it was last year. There is an option to read one of the three or even all of them because of their growing popularity. Additionally, many students choose to read Jodi Picoult books. These drama filled novels are favorites by many people at the high school, but they are not the only kind of books that get an abundance of attention. Sports books were of an interest last year and “always seem to get a lot attention” said Lauren Culliton, head of the English Department. When asked about what book she personally recommends she said, “Books are like my kids — they’re all my favorite.”
After only a quick glance at the list, she noticed a few that stood out: “Unbroken” by Laura Hildenbrand, “Zeitoun” by Dave Eggers, “The Help” by Kathryn Stockett, and “The Art of Racing in the Rain” by Garth Stein. Ms. Culliton has high expectations for these specifics. She expects a high turnout for these books in September.
“[Summer reading is a] great opportunity to read different books that you wouldn’t normally read” said sophomore Grace Uhlar. Teachers hope that the list of books for summer reading urge students to not only read their books for a pass or fail grade in September, but also to get kids to read independently. Our reading program gives every student the chance to get lost in a book on the beach, in the car, or wherever their summer vacation may take them.
