From Readers to Reviewers: Masconomet Young Adult Book Club Shares Their Top Picks

One day in December, students in Reilly Finnegan’s English class shared that they loved to browse Young Adult novels in independent bookstores and then discuss their discoveries in a coffee shop. From that first discussion came an idea: Rather than talk among themselves, why not have students share their views with the world? “I thought this might be a fun way to lean into their love of reading and give them an authentic learning experience where they could share their passion for Young Adult books with the public,” said Finnegan, who teaches the new Young Adult Book Club elective at Masconomet Regional High School. Finnegan contacted Jabberwocky Bookstore in Newburyport, which agreed to display the students’ recommendations. Students participating were Erin Benson, Taylor Blanchette, Bryn Bucher, Lydia Deal, Jordyn Fallis, Bella Florentino, Charlotte Guido, Krystal Harlow-Powell, Gwyneth Kane, Lisha Patel, Carly Petersen, Finley Podgurski, Amelia Polanco, Emily Stearns, and Savannah Stevens. They brainstormed a question – “If someone was going to read only one Young Adult novel, what would you recommend?” – and wrote down their suggestions. The store set up a display at the entrance displaying the students’ picks and books. “The students selected interesting and thought-provoking novels,” English Department Chair Meagan Hildebrand said. “This is a wonderful project and aligns with Masconomet’s vision that a love of reading puts our students on the path to being lifelong learners.” Hildebrand and Finnegan wish to thank Jabberwocky Bookshop owner Sue Little and store manager Paul Abbruzzi for their support of this project, and for discounting students’ purchases to further encourage their love of reading.


Masconomet Application for Turf Field Permit with Boxford Conservation Commission
The Masconomet District will be presenting an application to the Boxford Conservation Commission for a permit to construct two artificial turf fields on the Masconomet Campus on February 6, at 7:00 PM. The meeting will be held via Zoom and can be accessed at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81623130778.
Congratulations to Sofia Pomerantz!
Masconomet Music Parents Association Fundraiser

February Parent Coffees with Administration
Our next High School Parent Coffee will be held on Friday, February 14 in the High School Library at 8:30 AM. Our next Middle School Parent Coffee will be on February 28 in the Middle School Library at 8:30 AM. Parents are asked to check in at the main office to sign into the building. They will then be escorted to the library for the Parent Coffee.
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School Principals’ Blogs
Both our Middle and High School Principal’s publish weekly blogs with information from their schools. For more school-specific info, please see the High School Principal’s Masco Memo and the Middle School Principal’s Weekly Update.
