PHOTOS: First Annual 'Big Read' Brings Students, Parents Together

Seth Boyden School's first annual Big Read brought a small, but enthusiastic group of parents and children out on a school night to discuss two great books read together.

Kindergarten through 2nd grade students and parents were given the book The Empty Pot by Demi to read and discuss. Students and parents in 3rd through 5th grades had tackled Out of My Mind by Sharon Draper.

Parents Julie Snyder, Rachel Fisher, Elizabeth Takacs, Mitch Center, Heather Puglisi, Jeff Melman, Susan Leone, Judith Wolochow, Shana Ginsburg, Thandi Center, Amy Cox-Martins, Nadine Kerstan, Alix Clyburn and Patricia Sanchez all stepped forward and volunteered to moderate. The event was organized by Tia Swanson.

Kendra Thyne, Alix Clyburn, Sonya Sio Weng Artis, Patricia Sanchez, Nadine Kerstan brought some "brain food" to keep everyone sharp for discussion.

Principal Mark Quiles was suffering from the aftermath of dental surgery but still managed to attend.

"Our irreplaceable librarian Mary Sciaino was there to photograph and listen in on discussions," adds Swanson. 

"I think many of us who were there thought that the project of reading the same book as our child was a powerful, wonderful experience."