139

Before the end of the school year last June, we were bombarded with information about the school district's summer reading program.  The district asked every student to read for at least 20 minutes each and every day during the summer, to track the amount of minutes read each day, and to track the books read.  Although I am all for reading, I have to admit that I was a big put off about the big push for summer reading before the school year even ended!  Lee suggested that rather than conform to the district's suggested metrics of minutes per day, we simply provide Elizabeth with a never ending supply of library books and let her read on her own - whenever she wants, for as long as she wants.  I made my first library trip on the last day of school and brought home seven books, which she read in three days; during my second trip, I picked up 14 books and she quickly blew through those as well.  After that, we just stopped keeping track of library visits!  We kept a running list on the refrigerator of each book that Elizabeht read, because we noticed (during Lent) that she really loved listing all of her books.  As an additional incentive, we went out for ice cream each time Elizabeth finished 25 books.  As a result, Elizabeth was never without a book, all summer long.  I will admit to pushing the limits a bit, encouraging more "difficult" books because she could read 2nd grade books with such ease.  Now, one the eve of Elizabeth's first day of school, we are so pleased to say that Elizabeth read a total of 139 books!  We can't believe what a little book worm Elizabeth turned into and we are so proud of her!!  I wish that we could determine her reading level, as she is currently finishing books on the district's fourth grade reading list!

The usual reading position. 

But she can read anywhere - including the floor of a gym during a powerlifting competition.... 

....as well as on a boat.

On vacation.

In the morning, before Emily wakes up.

On the train to New York City.

On this particular rainy day, she read four books - two Magic Tree House, two A-Z mysteries.