Masconomet students who recommended Young Adult novels at Jabberwocky Bookstore in Newburyport pose with store owner Sue Little and staff member Chaucer. (Photo Courtesy Masconomet Regional School District) 
Masconomet students’ recommendations were displayed at the front of the store. (Photo Courtesy Masconomet Regional School District)
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. Students visited the store on Jan. 17 and browsed the store.
“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.