On Saturday, May 9th, 2026, 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 The Little Town on the Prairie. 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 1-26. During supper, Laura receives an unexpected surprise from her dad asking if she wanted a job in town. However, Laura rejects this offer in her mind not wanting to go work, but instead stay in the prairie where they lived. After the harsh winter passed, spring came around where it was time for planting crops. However, gophers ravaged the plants and seeds that were planted by Charles (Laura’s father). Later, unexpectedly, a mouse cut through Charles’ hair in the middle of the night, creating a bald spot on the back of Charles’ head. This would have been okay if Charles was not planning to go to a meeting of county commissioners. When Charles returned from the meeting, he brought a very small baby kitten to his family to raise.
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 Edward Soong (event leader), Rumi Tian, and Ryan He each contributing one volunteer hour.