About Our Library Books...

Dear Parents:

As part of an initiative to increase student reading, the leading indicator of academic and professional success, the Deer Park High School English department is implementing a reading workshop program. Throughout the year, students will have opportunities to select their own reading material from the school library, the classroom library, or a source of their own choosing.

Besides being the most accurate predictor of future academic success, independent reading allows students to experience pleasure, reduce stress, and add to their store of experience. Our biographies are not just our personal experiences, but our reading experiences. Indeed, a great read should be deeply personal, making our lives a little fuller than they would have been otherwise.

Having said all of this, I realize that literature often challenges us, sometimes confronting us with difficult truths, disquieting images, or beliefs different from our own. Additionally, because students will be selecting some of their own reading, I may not be intimately familiar with everything your student reads. Part of becoming a mature, responsible citizen and learner is taking ownership of your education, of making choices that further your academic and personal interests.

If, however, your student chooses something you find questionable, I recommend talking with him or her about the book. You may also wish to look up summaries and reviews on the internet, and if time and circumstances permit, to read the book with your student. Of course, if the book is not one you want your student to read, have him or her pick another one. There are literally thousands upon thousands to choose from.

In addition to self-selected reading, students will study some novels and videos as an entire class, enjoying the benefit of direct instruction, analysis, and discussion around a shared experience. Below is a list and brief description of all of the novels and videos our class may cover this school year.

A Raisin in the Sun by Lorraine Hansberry

A Raisin in the Sun movie (2008)

Westside Story

Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare

Romeo and Juliet movie (1968 and 1996)

Thank you for your support,

North Campus English Department