Did you know that less than 20 percent of teens read a book or newspaper for pleasure each day? This is down from 60 percent in 2010, and as technology improves and as new social media apps pop up, this number is expected to drop more in future years. In the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), they saw a decline of 18 percent in reading scores from 2012 to 2023. But here at Saugus High School, students have pulled together to form a book club, a group where they can connect and discuss their love of reading.
The Saugus Book Club meets on Mondays in room Q1715. The club advisor is Mrs. Hilstein. The club was formed to provide a welcoming environment to students who would like to bond over books. In a club meeting, everyone will start by signing in. Members then share their thoughts on the book that is currently being read, making sure that everyone gets a chance to articulate their thoughts. The meeting is closed by a discussion about plans for the club and prospective books.
To decide which book to read next, all the members first vote for a literary genre, and make book suggestions in each of these categories. From there, the selections are narrowed down to three different books from three different genres, which are then voted on, ensuring that each member has a voice in the decision. The club has over fifteen members at any given meeting, and provides cookies and hot cocoa for its members, promoting a feeling of community.
The Saugus Scroll interviewed senior Alyssa Rodrigues, who has been the club’s president since her sophomore year. She decided to become president out of her desire to give back to her community, by providing a welcoming space where people can form new friendships while engaging in their love of reading. Knowing that the club has read multiple books this year, we wanted to know which one was her favorite, to which she responded, “My favorite book I have read so far is probably The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo! I just loved the surprises and shocks that were revealed throughout the book.”
Alyssa has always had a great love of reading, starting in elementary school when she would finish books in only a few days, and then immediately race back to the library for more, often several times a week. When asked what makes the club so special, she immediately stated, “I think what makes this club so special is the people. Everyone is so amazing and kind to one another and participates in the meetings. It makes the overall experience so enjoyable.”
The Book Club meetings are often in a constant state of laughter and chatter, giving the feel of a large family. Alyssa quickly gave credit to Ms. Hilstein, saying, “We also have an amazing advisor, Mrs. Hilstein, who truly loves books and contributes to the club each meeting!”
So if you’re a book lover looking for a place to relax and make new friends, this may be the place for you! Stop by room Q1715 on Mondays at lunch to say hello. They may even have some cookies and cocoa for you!
