GRC 2021
The GRC is a citywide program that is a collaborative effort between The Seattle Public Library and Seattle Public Schools.
Every year, 4th and 5th graders from Seattle Public Schools participate in this reading challenge presented by The Seattle Public Library. In a typical year, students get put on mixed grade level and gender teams, read the books, and then participate in a trivia-style competition against other Cascadia teams and the winning team would then advance to a semi-finals round where they participate against other teams. This year’s program will look a lot different. It may not involve a semi-finals round, but at the core, it will involve the following:
- Promotes a love of reading
- Introduces kids to diverse viewpoints
- Helps kids retain more of what they read
- Fosters group activities and teamwork
How will it work?
The books will be available digitally on SPL via Library Link (All SPS students have an account).
17 paper copies of each book will be available through Destiny Holds and Curbside Pick-Up. Students should read at least 3 books, but can read all 7 if they choose.
As of right now we won’t have any set Teams meetings, but I do plan on holding some optional GRC lunch sessions to talk with kids about the books and look at quiz materials.
At the end of January or early February, SPL will help us host a virtual trivia-style competition. Students will be placed on teams in January to compete virtually. Please note that this is a shift from last year where students are placed on teams at the start.
The Books:
Sadiq and the Desert Star by Siman Nuurali (M, lexile 610, 65 pages)
Finding Langston by Lesa Cline-Ransome (X, lexile 760, 112 pages)
Sasquatch and the Muckleshoot by Joseph Bruchac and Adam Gidwitz (?, lexile 660, 176 pages)
Lety Out Loud by Angela Cervantes (T, lexile 710, 208 pages)
One Crazy Summer by Rita Williams-Garcia (W, lexile 750, 240 pages)
New Kid by Jerry Craft (graphic novel, 256 pages)
When Stars Are Scattered by Omar Mohamed and Victoria Jamieson (graphic novel, 264 pages)