Mrs. Maxstadt dressed as a chef talks with students as they sample their books.
Fourth-grade students at Donald P. Sutherland Elementary School were treated to a fun literary experience as they participated in a Book Tasting event in the library on September 20. Led by Literary Media Specialist Peg O’Connor and 4th Grade Teacher Tonya Maxstadt, the library was transformed into a cozy restaurant where students “sampled” a variety of books.
Mrs. O’Connor dressed as a chef talks with students as they sample their books.
The tables were set with checkered tablecloths and candles, and students were handed book “menus” to write down the books they would like to sample.
“One of the reasons I enjoy this project so much is the student response. They get so excited to examine, sign out, and talk about the books they’ve discovered with each other,” said Mrs. O’Connor.
Throughout the event, students explored different genres, with the goal of discovering new interests.
“Our annual Book Tasting helps kids explore books outside their preferred genres and gets them excited about titles they might not typically choose to read,” added Mrs. Maxstadt.
All three ELA classes from 4th grade visited the library for their reservation at the Book Tasting. At the end of each seating, students brought books to Mrs. O’Connor at the circulation desk to check them out. The event has become a tradition at DPS and one that the students in fourth graders look forward to every year.
Fourth grade students holding books they picked from the book tasting take a group photo with Mrs. O’Connor and Mrs. Maxstadt.