A Miraculous Journey

The students at Apple Glen Elementary just completed a "One School, One Book" experience using The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane.  One School, One Book is a program designed to create a shared reading experience within an elementary school community. A single chapter book is chosen, every student in the school receives a copy, and every family reads the book out loud at home over the course of a month. Our goal in using One School, One Book was to promote reading as an enjoyable family activity. We engaged in learning opportunities at school that promoted and enriched the shared reading experience. Trivia questions were asked each morning that dealt with the previous night's reading. Students who answered the questions correctly had their name included in a drawing for prizes.

The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane, by Kate DiCamilla, is an amazing story and the book itself is beautifully illustrated.  Our students and their families truly enjoyed the reading experience and the story.  Several PTO members, under the direction of Kelly Berringer, put together entryway decorations that were scenes from the story.  They also did a wonderful "I Spy" display case.  The visuals she and her helpers made truly added to the students' excitement about the book. We received very positive feedback regarding the One School, One Book program.  Some comments from parents and students were:

• "We LOVE this book. As I read the book to her every night, she always has this intense look on her face. I can see all of the suspense and emotion cross her forehead as we read what happens next! She always asks questions if she doesn't understand something. We predict what is going to happen next and laughed and laughed over Edward being dressed up like a girl in last night's chapters. This is a great program!" Hannah's Mom
• "We were very excited about this program. Edward's story is very interesting and...involves parents and kids. We love to see this kind of project in the future too." Briya's Parents
• "We like your concept of One School One Book. Kids are enjoying reading with their parents. Even parents are enjoying the story because the selection is...wonderful for all. Thanks for encouraging the kids to read for fun." Vaishali
• "Each night we read a chapter or two from a book. Usually I hear a complaining voice asking, "How many more pages?" With Edward Tulane, I hear a pleading voice asking, "Just one more chapter...please it's so good. I want to see what happens." This has been a wonderful reading experience with my child. We've really enjoyed this program." Wesley's Mom
• "I think this is so cool. I like the story, it is awesome." Ryan - Grade 4
• "I turn the TV off when I am reading this book, it is that good." Rosa - Grade 4
• "It is a great experience. It has taught me if you don't love anyone you aren't going to get the respect you deserve. My dad likes it too. My mom and dad were excited when I brought it home." John Robert - Grade 2