I May Have Hooked A Reader Today

Thank you Two Writing Teachers for creating this space for me to share my corner of the world.

I may have hooked a reader today.

I walk down to our alternative classroom with a copy of Scar Island by Dan Gemeinhart in my hands.  I have been waiting for it to arrive so I could give it to one of the students in that classroom.  Without violating student privacy, let's just say this student has a little bit in common with the main character. 

I go up to "G" and say, "I have a book for you."

"I ain't readin' no book," he says with a scowl on his face.

Ignoring his announcement, I keep pressing on.  
"It is about a boy named Jonathan Grisby who is sent to a reformatory school for boys on this island."

"I ain't readin' no book."

I keep pressing on.  "All the adults get killed and the boys are left by themselves to run the island.  I think you will really be able to connect with one of the characters."

"I ain't readin' no book."

I keep pressing on.  "Well, why don't I just leave it here on Mrs. V's desk just in case you change your mind.  I think you will like it, if you just give it a chance."

"Ok, but I ain't reading' no book."

A little later in the day, I see "G" walking in our wing.  When he sees me, he gets this great big grin on his face.

"I started reading that book.  And I ain't nothin' like that kid."

Oh, yea...I think I may have hooked a reader today.