On Saturday, November 8, 2025, the Newtown AYLUS members organized and hosted
a community reading session for elementary school students. For this meeting, the
volunteers and the children read the book Wonder by R. J. Palacio: a widely loved
2012 novel that later adapted to a film. Instead of picking a short or simple picture book,
the group intentionally selected a substantial chapter book to help young readers stretch
their abilities, build stronger literacy skills, and think more critically about the themes
within the story.
Two volunteers guided a small group of six children, creating a relatively small sized,
friendly, and encouraging environment where everyone felt comfortable participating.
The children read aloud in turns, which helped them practice reading fluency while
staying connected to the plot. During this session, the group read pages 102-123, which
shifts the perspective from the previous main character, August, to his sister, Via.
Offering the children a look at how she views her brother and things happened around
them. Through Via’s perspective, the group explored how she quietly supports August,
even when she struggles with her own feelings. The volunteers guided the students as
they discussed how Via comforts August and encourages him to stay strong and they
eventually went to trick-or-treat together after August feeling devastated by the betrayal
of someone his best friend. With the volunteers’ support, the students were able to
follow the storyline clearly and talk about the emotions and difficulties the character
experiences.
The session was very successful. Compared to the previous meeting, the children
showed noticeable gains in confidence and reading skill, and many shared that they
were excited to continue the book next time. Their enjoyment of the story, along with the
academic progress they demonstrated, made the event especially meaningful for both
the students and volunteers.
Participating members included Rumi Tian (event leader) and Ryan He, each
contributing one volunteer hour.