Does your family enjoy movie nights?  Do your kids love talking about their favorite movies? Do you have a reluctant reader? An avid reader that loves to compare their books to movie versions? Let them grab some popcorn, find a comfortable spot, and watch a great book-to-movie adaptation at home every week. They will then gather with friends each week to talk about the movie in a fun "book club" atmosphere. 

The assigned movies in this series are generally film adaptations of classic children's literature, with an occasional modern, comedic book-to-movie choice for variety and fun. 

We'll talk about the plot, characters, and themes of the stories. We'll also share our favorite story moments and discuss the things we liked (or didn't like) about the movie. We'll talk about how the events of the story caused the characters to grow or change. 

I have created the following list of classic 'books-to-movies'.  I am also flexible and open to parent/student suggestions or requests. This is an ongoing class, so students are welcome to attend every week, or choose their favorites and drop in and out as they wish.

   May 31st: Charlotte's Web (2006)
   June 7th: The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe (2005)

   NO CLASS JUNE 14TH: MS ALISON PERSONAL DAY

   June 21st: Homeward Bound - The Incredible Journey (1993)
   June 28th: The Wizard of Oz (1939)

I will gently guide the discussion, allowing plenty of time for students to shape the discussion and share their thoughts. For many of the movies, I will provide a viewing guide and occasionally add an activity sheet, or other worksheets, to complement the movie and its themes.

Movies will generally be available on various major streaming sites. Some might even be available in DVD format from your local library. 

(One exception will be the "Anne of Green Gables" selection. For this class, I have decided that the 1985 version is BY FAR the best and the most faithful to the author's style and intent. This version is only available for rent or purchase from one site. I will provide details in the classroom that week regarding how to locate a copy of that movie.) 
 
All the movies will be family-friendly in content and language (rated G or PG). There may, however, be occasional tense moments or serious themes. Parents are encouraged to check out each movie through Common Sense Media or IMDB to be sure they agree that the movie is appropriate for their learner and aligns with their family's viewing standards.