Nevada County Picayune and Gurdon Times Newspaper Archive

Summer reading camp creates list of recommended books

Four Prescott youth had the responsibility of creating a summer reading project. The results of their efforts are now on display at the Prescott/Nevada County Library in the form of a third-grade reading list.

Chase Cox, Landon Franklin, Ricardo Roberts and Darian Marlow were selected to participate in a summer reading camp sponsored by the school district. Directed by third grade teacher Donna Marlar, the group approached librarian Joyce Gibson regarding project ideas. When Gibson said that there wasnt a reading list on file, Marlars group decided to make that their project.

The boys hoped to read 25 books, write brief recommendations as to why someone should choose to read that book, then draw a picture to illustrate some point the book makes.

Marlar said they completed 26 recommendations.

Each boy selected a single book, read that book, then went to work creating the required information. When they were finished with the project, Marlar compiled the pages along with a cover featuring the boys photos and presented it to the library. Gibson said the booklet will be left at the library to help readers who are having trouble selecting a book. She said it might also prompt some who are reluctant to read.

For example, The Day it Rained Watermelons by Mabel Watts is among the books recommended by the group. Their recommendation reads, Have you ever seen it rain watermelons? Read this fun book and find out how it rains watermelons.

As a rule, the boys couldnt come up with one favorite book, saying they liked several. Testing with Mrs. Marlarky by Judy Fincher was on the top of several of the favorites list.

Marlar said she hoped the summer reading camp prompts the boys to continue reading.

Its important to keep up over the summer, she said.

She said every book a child reads helps him learn new vocabulary words and hone skills necessary to succeed.

Its just good practice, Marlar said. It opens up all kinds of worlds for them.

Parents said they also approved of the camp.

Im glad they did this, said Orlando Franklin, Landons father.

Parents said the four boys not only gained some quality reading time over the first few weeks of summer, they seemed to enjoy the process.

Anyone who wants to see the recommendations may do so at the library during normal business hours, Tuesday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m.