Raptors 905 Virtual Summer Reading Challenge
Maxwell and Brandon are back at it and participating in the Raptors 905 Summer Reading Challenge. It runs from July 8th – August 12th and similar to last year, in addition to reading the book, they will be submitting a book report and attending the weekly virtual events (when they’re not at summer camp!).
Last year when my boys participated, they were heading into grade 2 and the books that were scheduled for the reading challenge were for students currently in grade 4, 5 or 6 in Canadian elementary schools. I had to read the books out loud to them and I found that some of the material were a bit too mature for 7 year old boys and I had to improvise. In addition, I had to type up the book reports and submit them online. Definitely a time commitment, but well worth it because this summer the boys will be reading the books on their own.
This is a meaningful program and I know many parents, caregivers, family members and friends are looking to diversify children’s summer reading list, so I recommend you sign up. All five books focus on BIPOC representation to encourage students to read books that reflect and are inclusive of all voices, stories and experiences. Click here for more info and to register.
We’ll be updating this page on a weekly basis with the boys’ book reports, so make sure to come back and visit!
NOTE: we bought our books from Indigo, but most books can be borrowed from your local library.
The Witch’s Apprentice – Brandon’s Book Report
What was your favourite part of the book and why? – my favourite part is when Vik said that his sister turned into a lizard. It was my favourite because it was kind of weird and I like weird.
What was your least favourite part of the book and why? – my least favourite is when Jaxon started jumping around because he was going to Chicago. It was my least favourite because he should have just said “yay”.
Do you recommend this book to a friend? yes, if people like dragons they would like this book
What surprised you? I thought that Jaxon would protect dragons and not go on vacation.
What was one of your favourite words from this book, and what does it mean? “Possible” – it means that it may happen or may not.
Planet Omar – Accidental Trouble Magnet – Brandon’s Book Report
My favourite parts of the book are 1) when Omar spat on his little brother and I thought it was funny 2) when Omar’s little brother Esa peed on him, he had to go badly and couldn’t hold it any longer 3) one of Omar’s teachers had a slithering slug mustache. It was weird and funny at the same time.
What Lane? – Maxwell’s Book Report
This book was about Stephen and his privileges. HIs friends in the book call him Steph Curry or Miles Morales because he is half African American and half Puerto Rican. Stephen is half white and half black. The book is medium easy for kids. I recommend that my mom reads this book. The book is a bit serious.
Maxwell’s mom – my son asked me to read this book. Ages recommended for this book is 9-12 years old. Maxwell is 8 and the book explores allyship, bullying, victims of police violence (eg. Tamir Rice) and racism. Difficult topics to discuss (e.g. police violence) where my sons have not had any exposure. Definitely thought provoking and great conversation starters. I recommend that parents read this book along with their children.
The Secret Diary of Mona Hasan – Brandon’s Book Report
I didn’t really relate to this book. It’s about a diary of a Muslim girl who is 12. My mom and I read it together and she said I should stop reading it because because the topics are too mature for me right now.
A Wish in the Dark – Brandon’s Report
I like this book. It is a book written about character Pong in Thailand. It taught me about privilege, equality and activism. It is a fantasy book. My mom read it too and said it made her feel hopeful.
