School Book Club Options for Students, Teachers, Parents & Librarians
Other book clubs for students exist besides just Scholastic. But there is definitely one massive gorilla in the classroom and school library. That gorilla is Scholastic. Depending on your point of view, that may not be a bad thing. As both a student and teacher, I loved when Scholastic book orders were distributed. It was like Christmas every month. And, of course, it was even more exciting when those boxes of books arrived. Let’s take a look at the upsides and downsides of Scholastic Book Clubs and then examine some other options for teachers, parents, students and librarians.
What are some reasons to Love Scholastic Book Clubs?
Scholastic Book Clubs have been a beacon of literary delight for decades, weaving a tapestry of positive experiences for middle school classrooms, libraries, students, parents, librarians, and teachers alike. In this blog post, we’ll explore the myriad ways in which Scholastic Book Clubs contribute to a vibrant reading culture and foster a lifelong love for books.
1. Curated Selections for Diverse Tastes:
Scholastic Book Clubs offer an extensive array of books that cater to diverse interests and reading levels. From captivating novels to educational resources, students can explore genres that resonate with them, encouraging a broad spectrum of reading preferences.
2. Affordable Access to Quality Literature:
One of the standout features of Scholastic Book Clubs is the affordability factor. Students, parents, and teachers can access high-quality literature at reasonable prices, making reading materials more accessible to a broader audience.
3. Encouraging Critical Thinking:
The discussion guides and supplementary materials provided by Scholastic Book Clubs facilitate meaningful conversations in classrooms. This not only enhances comprehension but also encourages critical thinking as students delve deeper into the themes and characters of the books.
4. Building Classroom Communities:
Scholastic Book Clubs contribute to the sense of community within classrooms. Shared reading experiences create a bond among students, fostering a collaborative and supportive environment that extends beyond the pages of the books.
5. Empowering Teachers with Resources:
Teachers benefit from the wealth of resources offered by Scholastic Book Clubs, including teaching guides, lesson plans, and author interviews. These resources empower educators to create engaging and enriching learning experiences centered around literature.
6. Parental Engagement in Education:
Scholastic Book Clubs bridge the gap between school and home by involving parents in their child’s reading journey. Parental engagement is heightened as families explore book selections together, fostering a love for reading that transcends the classroom.
7. Fostering a Lifelong Love for Books:
Perhaps the most significant impact of Scholastic Book Clubs is the cultivation of a lifelong love for books. By exposing students to a variety of genres and encouraging regular reading habits, Scholastic plays a vital role in shaping individuals who appreciate the power and joy of storytelling.
Scholastic Book Clubs have been a part of middle school classrooms and libraries for decades. Many students, parents, librarians, and teachers have grown to love the Scholastic catalogues and book fairs as a way to offer books for inside and outside the school setting. Through curated selections, affordability, and providing a bridge between school and home, Scholastic Book Clubs are a part of the reading curriculum in many schools. Yet, Scholastic Book Clubs aren’t perfect for everyone, so let’s take a look at some potential downsides to the corporate literary gorilla.
The Downsides of Scholastic Book Clubs in Educational Settings
While Scholastic Book Clubs have undeniably contributed to a positive reading culture, it’s essential to acknowledge that, like any program, they come with potential challenges. In this section, we’ll explore some downsides to Scholastic Book Clubs in classroom and school library settings, providing a balanced perspective.
1. Commercial Influence on Reading Choices:
Critics argue that the commercial nature of Scholastic Book Clubs may influence the choices available to students. The focus on bestselling titles and tie-ins with popular media might overshadow lesser-known but equally valuable literary works, potentially limiting the diversity of reading materials.
3. Pressure on Students and Parents:
The promotional nature of Scholastic Book Clubs can create a sense of pressure on students and parents to participate. Students may feel compelled to purchase books to participate in classroom discussions or activities, potentially alienating those who cannot afford to do so.
4. Limited Autonomy for Teachers:
Some educators express concerns about the limited autonomy they have in selecting books for their classrooms. The pre-curated book selections may not align perfectly with the curriculum or the unique needs of their students, limiting the teacher’s ability to tailor reading materials.
5. Accessibility and Inclusivity Challenges:
While Scholastic Book Clubs strive for inclusivity, there may be challenges in ensuring accessibility for all students. Some students may feel excluded if they don’t participate, potentially exacerbating disparities in access to reading materials.
While Scholastic Book Clubs offer numerous benefits, it’s crucial for educators and administrators to be aware of the potential downsides. By addressing these challenges proactively, schools can work towards maximizing the positive impact of Scholastic Book Clubs while mitigating any adverse effects on the learning environment. In some cases, teachers, parents, and librarians may want to look at other alternatives to Scholastic Book Clubs. We’ll provide some alternatives below.
Alternatives to Scholastic and Other Book Clubs for Students, Teachers & Parents
Let’s take a look at some alternatives to Scholastic, including other book clubs for students. Let’s explore some different book purchasing options for parents, teachers and librarians to consider
1. Local Bookstores and Libraries:
Encourage students to explore their local independent bookstores and public libraries. Partnering with these community resources not only supports local businesses but also exposes students to a wider range of titles beyond the mainstream, fostering a sense of community engagement.
2. Book Swaps and Reading Circles:
Organize book swaps within classrooms or school-wide events. This not only introduces students to new books but also promotes a sense of community sharing. Additionally, reading circles can be established where students discuss and exchange their favorite books with peers.
3. Literati Book Clubs/Fairs:
A new player in the school book club and book fair world is Literati. Literati Book Club is a subscription-based book club that offers curated book selections for readers of various age groups. Members receive a monthly box containing a carefully chosen book, along with additional materials such as author notes and exclusive content. Literati focuses on creating a personalized and immersive reading experience, making it an alternative for individuals seeking a curated and thoughtful approach to book discovery
4.Online Reading Platforms:
Explore online reading platforms that offer a vast selection of e-books and audiobooks. Platforms like Epic! and Amazon provide convenient access to a diverse range of titles, allowing students to explore various genres and formats.
5. Little Free Libraries
These fun kiosks serve as a community-driven alternative to Scholastic Book Clubs, fostering a love for reading through decentralized book-sharing. Little Free Libraries are small, accessible structures that encourage individuals to take or leave books freely, promoting community engagement, inclusivity, and a diverse range of reading materials beyond commercial selections.
6. Collaboration with Local Authors:
Collaborate with local authors for in-person or virtual visits. Connecting students with authors from their own community provides a unique and personal touch, fostering a sense of pride and connection to local literary talent.
While Scholastic Book Clubs have played a significant role in promoting reading, these alternative approaches offer educators, parents, and librarians diverse options to cater to the unique needs and preferences of their students. By exploring these alternatives, schools can create a rich and dynamic reading environment that inspires a lifelong love for books.
