SOLSC: Please, Can I Have a Book?

“Hi Mrs. Gensch. Can I borrow that book now?” Cam asked as we met in the hallway. I was getting ready for my next Title I group, but I couldn’t resist.

My mind began to trace through my memory. Book. Book, what book? My face must have had that look of searching, because Cam pointed to the book display.

“Remember? I want to borrow that book, The Buffalo Soldier.”

Cam had asked me a couple of times before when I was in a different area in the school. It was very much at the forefront of his mind, and I always seemed to be heading for a meeting or another group or something.  But not today. Today, I had a few moments (thank goodness for the five-minute transition time between groups). Unlocking the display, I retrieved the book for the awaiting hands.

“Oh thank you, Mrs. Gensch,” Cam said with a smile. It warmed my heart. I gave a little background behind the book as we walked to his class. “I am trusting you with my book. It’s special and I don’t normally loan this one out. I know you will take care of it though, because you have been wanting and waiting to read this book. Let me know what you think.”

A huge smile spread across my face as I hugged him a good-bye. He reflected one back.  A kid connected with a book, a book I could share.

I love connecting kids with great books. I love, love, love it! As a kid I struggled with reading (a post for another day), and a teacher hooked me. I’m now paying it forward and love every connection!