Holding a Treasure

A brief conversation this afternoon following reading class went something like this:

Student: Ms. Foyle, Maniac Magee is my favorite book ever.
Me: Are you sure? You're only on Chapter 11.
Student: How did you know that?
Me: I saw you reading it when you were supposed to be putting it away.
Student: Oh. (sheepish grin)
Me: I thought you all might enjoy it. It's been a hit before with some of my other students.



It's so exciting to guide young students to books that they enjoy and that make them think. And it's super to watch students gobble up the same novels year after year. When that happens, you know you are holding a treasure.

What makes a book touch the heart (and/or mind) in such a way?

Sometimes it's the characters - ones that, in some way, remind us of characteristics and desires we see in ourselves...
Maybe it's the plot - one in which we are pulling for the character, as he/she battles inward and outward foes toward the final goal...
Perhaps it's just the right timing - it is a book with a message that we needed to hear at that specific time.


Whatever it is, when you find yourself lost in such a book, don't forget it. Remember, you're holding a treasure - and, remember, now it's your turn to pass it on.