Book Nook

Dr. Seuss once said: “The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.” It might sound simple – and that’s the beauty of it. It really is.

Books can open up a whole new world for you to explore; the topics are endless! Knowledge is power and is at your fingertips through limitless reading choices. Don’t think of reading as a chore or homework. If you choose a book you’re interested in, you will WANT to read it!

Some of the most successful people on the planet read a lot – and we mean a lot! Bill Gates and Warren Buffett, two of the richest men alive, both have said they spend hours reading every week. Bill Gates has actually said he reads one entire book a week. Mark Zuckerberg, the founder of Facebook, said he aims to read one book every other week. In a Facebook post, he said, "Books allow you to fully explore a topic and immerse yourself in a deeper way than most media today. I'm looking forward to shifting more of my media diet towards reading books." Oprah has said "Books allowed me to see a world beyond the front porch of my grandmother's shotgun house.” It’s no coincidence these successful people all happen to read a lot. Reading impacts you so much! From learning about new places, to learning new words, to even just sparking creativity in your mind – a book can change your life.

You don’t have to read a book a week – start with just finding a good book you’re interested in and try and read a few pages or a chapter at night before bed. Watch how much you change and grow!! Here’s our Rae Of Hope Connection ‘Book Nook’, where we will keep adding some great book ideas! Developing a reading habit will enlighten and educate you, serving you throughout your lifetime. Happy Reading, and keep checking back for new suggestions!

1. Wringer (Fiction Novel) by Jerry Spinelli

Young boy Palmer learns to deal with peer pressure and forms an unlikely bond with a pigeon.

2. The Benefits of Being an Octopus (Fiction) by Ann Braden

Seventh-grader Zoey balances middle school and taking care of her younger siblings in this novel that delves into topics on poverty, gun ownership, bullying and more.

3. Monster (Drama Novel/Black Stories) by Walter Dean Myers

This 1999 novel written in the form of a diary owned by 16-year old, imprisoned Steve Harmon, has themes of identity, race,crime, teenage masculinity and more

4. Piecing Me Together (Fiction/ Black Stories) by Renee Watson

Jade is striving for success outside of her neighborhood. This book explores race, privilege, and identity through the lense of a young woman.

5. Out of My Mind (Realistic Fiction/Disability) by Sharon M. Draper

Follow Melody go through life frustrated and stuck in her own head. Unable to speak due to Cerebral Palsy, she isn’t able to communicate with those around her.