It can be difficult to create ongoing interest in reading, especially when competing with the powerful draw of media games and television. A great deal of attention has been focused on encouraging all students to read using incentive programs such as those that earn free pizzas, entrance to amusement parks, or other tangible awards.

As an elementary school principal, I wanted to develop a program with a school-wide incentive for reading. Our school's best readers were already reading, so we needed to find something more to challenge them. We also wanted a program that would help them to become proficient writers. To fulfill both goals, we started a student book review group.

Creating a Student Book Review Group

There is always a new supply of books coming into the school library, and students make great reviewers for these new titles. Using teacher recommendations, begin by gathering a list of students who might be interested in book reviewing. Arrange to meet with this group and explain what needs to be done in order to participate. Let student reviewers know that not only will they need to read the books, but they also need to write reviews of the books. Invite them to add their own artwork to illustrate the review or collaborate with an artistic friend for this part of the process. Let them know that, as reviewers, they will be asked to present their reviews at a monthly meeting and later visit classrooms to talk about their books.

Not all those recommended will be interested, and as the project evolves, other students who were not in the initial group may ask to participate. I let the group be flexible in this way, giving many students the opportunity to participate. Usually, the core of the group stays stable throughout the year.

The Book Review Process

Establish a simple template with the following review criteria:

• What grade levels might be most interested in this book?
• Does this book cover any special interests (such as sports or horses)?
• How would you rate this book (one to five thumbs up, with five being the highest)?
• Provide a three-sentence summary about this book

Some students opt to review books for younger grade levels, which is great for lower-level readers. Some proficient readers also choose to review books for younger grades since they enjoy visiting a first or second grade to talk about the books.

Posting Reviews

Post reviews on a bulletin board in the library, as well as on the library Web site. In our school, interest in the student-reviewed books was high. There was always a waiting list for every new book. This encouraged more reading by all students and furthered our reading incentive goal.

A Great Opportunity for Media Specialists

This program can be easily replicated in any school library. Consider sharing these student reviews with your public library. Letting students share their opinions is a great way to develop young readers at all levels and encourage their love of books.