On Saturday, December 6, 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 five 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 123-141, which included Summer’s perspective and her view on August’s odd behavior after Halloween. After talking it out with August, they agreed to work together for their upcoming project at Summer’s house. During the day of presentation Jack Will asks Summer why August seems to be in a bad mood around him. Summer, so as to not break her promise with August, only gave him a hint. The story then shifts to Jack Will’s perspective. This included when he first got a call about being a welcome buddy for August, and how at first he didn’t want to be one. But then he changed his made after thinking about it and remembering the first time he met him.
The session was very successful. With the volunteers’ support, the students were able to follow the storyline clearly and talk about the emotions and difficulties the character experiences. 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 Kylee Guo (event leader) and Rumi Tian, each contributing one volunteer hour.