Summer Book and Movie Clubs

Every summer I change things up, and we have a fun time comparing beloved children’s books to their movie versions.

I love these clubs because our discussions bring out such strong opinions from the learners. Kids and teens have a lot to say about the movie versions of a book!

Each book and movie club meets twice, so we can discuss the book during our first meeting and then critique the movie.

In the summer, your child can pick and choose the titles and times that work best for your summer plans!

Come join me and let’s decide if the book was truly better!

Summer Book and Movie Club Details

BOOK & MOVIE CLUBS
Join me this summer as we discuss a beloved children’s book and then compare it to the movie version.

THE PLAN
We will meet twice in one week (two 45-minute meetings):

FIRST MEETING: BOOK DISCUSSION
At our first meeting, we’ll discuss the plot, characters, and other literary elements in the book. Your learner will receive a printable when they register, including questions to consider as they read.

Everyone will be given time to share “their favorite” in the book. This can be a favorite quote, a memorable scene, or a character that stood out to them.

Finally, we’ll have some fun playing “Book Scattergories” at the end of our book meeting.

Reading Options: Enjoy the book through traditional reading, audiobooks, or parent read-alouds.

SECOND MEETING: MOVIE ANALYSIS
During our second meeting, we’ll compare the movie version to the book. Your child will receive a packet with questions to help them think about different aspects of the book compared to the movie. The questions will help them think about six areas to compare:

Opening
Setting
Point of View
Characters
Plot
Theme
Ending

I like to use an online spinner for this meeting so we can try something new. The spinner has some of these categories, and we discuss them in the order the spinner chooses them for us.

Finally, our movie discussion ends with the game, “Would You Rather?” based on the book and/or movie.

HOW TO VIEW THE FILM: Most films are available to rent or watch with a membership on a variety of platforms. Details are in each class description.

OUR MEETINGS
We’ll engage in discussions where everyone’s insights are appreciated. My goal is to create a welcoming environment for sharing perspectives. We’ll also build critical thinking skills through conversations and activities related to the story.

While no one is required to participate, students are encouraged to do so by raising their hands or typing their thoughts in the chat. No one will be called on or required to share an answer unless they would like to.

Get ready to dive into this literary adventure!