The Return of the Book Buddies

BY THERA CASTELLON FERNANDEZ

Do you remember when you were little, and older kids would read to you? Well, one day I was in Ms. Goldsmith’s class. She announced that our class had book buddies, and our class was full of excitement. Unfortunately, we would not get a chance to meet our little buddies until six weeks. But it was worth it.

Finally, we met them in Mrs. Woods’s class. Most people like having book buddies. Book Buddies is a way for older kids to interact with younger kids and younger kids to interact with older kids.

Older kids think that little kids are adorable, and it is pleasant to know that little kids are improving their reading skills. Sadly, events cause it to be canceled here and there, and kids get very disappointed.

The older buddies are equally upset as the younger book buddies when their reading time is disrupted. “I prefer doing book buddies than having recess,” said my friend, Anna Tsekos in Ms. Goldsmith’s class, fourth grade. (She is also in Good News REview. So, check out her article.)

Surprisingly, more people agree with her, but I mean it is recess we are talking about. Right?

In Houston Independent School District, there are 276 schools, and luckily Roberts Elementary is one of the schools that have Book Buddies.

Third through fifth graders, you might be wondering, “How can I be a good book buddy?”.

First, pick out a book that is a good fit for you and your book buddy. Set goals for you two to accomplish. Do not read ahead. You do not want to confuse them or set a bad example. Finally, be patient. Your young buddy needs time to learn and have fun. If you are not having fun, you all will be bored!

The younger and older book buddies benefit from Book Buddies. The younger kids get the chance to hear someone who can read fluently to them, and that helps the younger kids. Older buddies can build confidence, and the important part is that most kids enjoy it.

The Book Buddies program is both fun and educational. I love my book buddy, and I know you love yours, too. We would not have had this opportunity if it were not for Ms. Epps and the teachers. So, when you see them, thank them for giving you the Book Buddies experience and opportunity. The book buddies have returned!

A TALK WITH MS. ZATZKIN

BY NORA ESSINGER

What was your favorite subject when you were in school? Math!

And now, as I always do in my articles, we have (summer themed) Popcorn questions!!!

What is your favorite summer activity? Going to the beach!

What is your favorite cool drink for the summer?