Community of Readers

Each year, our AGCS Community comes together to read the same book at the same time. We have three selections this year! Every child in kindergarten through eighth grade will receive a copy of their book. We have selected a title that can be followed, understood, and enjoyed by the students in their division.

One School, One Book is a program that allows us to create and grow our community of readers. Reading aloud at home prepares your child to be an effective reader and is a fun, worthwhile family activity! Reading professionals recommend reading out loud any material that is beyond a child’s own reading level. We also believe that you can and should continue reading chapter books with your older children, even when they are able to read by themselves. Parents are asked to participate by reading with and to their children, following a daily reading schedule so that everyone is reading the same thing at the same time. Generally, you will be asked to read together for 15 minutes each night.

In school, your child will be invited to answer daily trivia questions to encourage and reward attentive listening. You will soon find that your child will take pride in knowing and anticipating the details of the story. In class, there may be various activities which discuss or explore the book. You will want to make sure your family keeps up, so your child can be included. When the whole school reads a book, there's a lot to talk about!

K-3rd Grade: The Cricket in Times Square by George Selden

This children's classic introduces us to Chester, a country cricket accidentally transported to a New York City subway station. Befriended by a boy named Mario and two savvy city animals, Tucker Mouse and Harry Cat, Chester uses his musical talent to save the Bellini family's failing newsstand and finds fame before returning home. The story explores themes of friendship, the meaning of home, and the power of art in a bustling city environment. 

Parent Welcome Letter - The Cricket in TImes Square

Reading Schedule - The Cricket in Times Square

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4th-6th Grade: The Fourteenth Goldfish by Jennifer L. Holm

Eleven-year-old Ellie’s life changes when her mother brings home a teenage boy who is actually her grandfather, Melvin, a scientist who has invented a formula for eternal youth. While navigating middle school, Ellie and her teen-aged grandfather bond over science, exploring the ethics of discovery and the value of growing up. This novel encourages readers to consider what it means to grow and change.

Teachers will be reading this book with their classes. No reading at home is required.

 

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7th-8th Grade

This year, our middle school students will be participating in One Book One School with their summer reading. We will post the book selection and information in the spring.

2024-2025
     K-3rd Grade: The Islanders by Mary Alice Monroe
     4th-6th Grade: Because of Mr. Terupt by Rob Buyea
     7th-8th Grade: The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind by William Kamkwamba

2023-2024
     Elementary: Love that Dog by Sharon Creech
     Middle: The Crossover by Kwame Alexander

2022-2023
     Elementary: Almost Super by Marion C. Jensen
     Middle: Flying Lessons & Other Stories - anthology of a number of authors

2021-2022
     Elementary: The Wild Robot by Peter Brown
     Middle: Counting 7's by Holly Goldberg Sloan

2020-2021
     Elementary: The Lemonade War by Jacqueline Davies
     Middle: Look Both Ways by Jason Reynolds

2019-2020
     Elementary: A Boy Called Bat by Elana K. Arnold

2018-2019
     Elementary: The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate