The 7th Grade Children's Book Project culminated in a heartwarming "Book Buddies Day" where students shared their original stories with first graders from our local elementary schools. Over the past several weeks, our 7th graders worked hard to plan, write, illustrate, and publish their own children’s books, each built around a meaningful message. Themes such as "everybody is different," "you can work things out through talking," and "it doesn't matter if you win or lose, just if you have fun" echoed the values of kindness, perseverance, and empathy that we hope to center at U-32. One student captured the spirit of the project beautifully, saying their story showed that “being nervous and having anxiety is okay, but also remember not everyone is going to be the worst person you've ever met.”
When it came time to share their books, the seventh graders were paired with younger students, reading their stories aloud and then giving the books as gifts. The experience was powerful for both age groups. “I loved reading to my buddies and they were amazed when they realized that I made the book,” one student reflected. Another shared, “My buddy was surprised that I used his name in the story.” These connections extended beyond the stories themselves. A seventh grader noted, “Meeting my book buddy was really fun and I learned that she really loves to paint and do gymnastics—it reminded me of when I was younger.”
While some students admitted to initial awkwardness—“It was a little awkward since I didn’t know what to say”—many were surprised by how quickly the experience became joyful and meaningful. One student described how “he was laughing and smiling through the book. When I told him he could keep it, he said ‘Really?’ and then hugged it tight.” Another student added, “It felt good to see my buddy get so excited from the book I made; at times, making the book felt hard and unenjoyable, but it was 100% worth it.”
The project not only strengthened literacy and creative expression but also fostered empathy and the concept of community. As one student put it: “I enjoyed giving it away, because now someone can enjoy the hard work I put into it.” Another reflected, “I honestly think we should do more things with buddies, not just the books. Maybe more things with them could be put together for next year’s 8th graders as well?” This final day of connection and celebration was a highlight of the school year—a chance for students to share a meaningful creation and, in doing so, see themselves as authors, role models, and contributing and caring members of our learning community.
