Building a Community of Readers at The Williston Northampton Middle School 

To all bookworms, near and far! 

Get ready to soak up the sun and dive into some incredible stories this summer!  It’s time to swap textbooks for tales, quizzes for quests, and classrooms for cozy nooks.  The Williston Northampton Middle School has got an exciting lineup of reads and activities that will make this summer one for the books! 

Selecting your own novel for summer reading isn’t just about finding something to pass the time.  It’s about discovering worlds unknown, unraveling mysteries, and delving into the depths of imagination! 

For some, picking the right book might feel like searching for buried treasure.  But, fear not!  If you are having trouble deciding, JROH’s Book Club Bonanza may be just what you are looking for! 

You will be required to read two books this summer:  1.) an All-School Read and 2.) one of your choice!  

1. All-School Read: The List of Things That Will Not Change by Rebecca Stead 

A heartfelt story about navigating change while holding onto what matters most. Through Bea’s perspective, the novel explores how big life shifts, like divorce, remarriage, and blending families, can feel overwhelming, even when they come from love. Bea’s “list of things that will not change” becomes a way to ground herself, reminding us that stability can still exist within uncertainty. The story is honest about anxiety, family dynamics, and identity, showing that it’s okay not to feel okay all the time. Ultimately, it’s a powerful reminder that while life may change in unexpected ways, love, connection, and the search for belonging remain constant.  

2. 7th & 8th Grade: Choose Your Own Adventure! 

The Williston Northampton Middle School is giving you freedom to pick your own novel for the summer!  Whether it’s a gripping mystery, a heartwarming romance, or a thrilling fantasy, the choice is yours!  This summer is all about exploring new worlds and discovering stories that speak to you.  Seventh graders will be exploring characters and their impacts on literature by creating and presenting a Character Suitcase assignment to work on in the first couple of weeks of school.  Eighth graders will also get an opportunity to share your choice read with your classmates as our first classroom project will be Book Talks! So, go ahead, grab that book you have been eyeing all year, and dive in!  

3. OPTIONAL – JROH’s Book Club Bonanza! 

Join JROH and other faculty members from The Williston Northampton Middle School for the ultimate bookish bash!  Get reading to discuss literature, make new friends, and share your thoughts on the stories that capture your imagination.  Our book club meetings will be the highlight of your summer, filled with lively discussions, delicious snacks, and exciting activities! 

Here is a sneak peek at our Book Club Bonanza lineup: 

• June 24, 2026 – 10:00 – 11:00 am: The Door of No Return by Kwame Alexander 

• July 26, 2026 – 10:00 – 11:00 am:  Safiyyah’s War by Hiba Noor Khan 

• August 20, 2026 – 10:00 – 11:00 am: Hello, Universe by Erin Entrada Kelly 

***RSVP***  

• by June 22, July 24, and August 18 to JROH at jrohan@williston.com  

• Meetings will be held in Whitaker Bement Middle School 

Happy reading, 

JROH 

Jes Rohan
Middle School English Teacher
The Williston Northampton School
jrohan@williston.com