Dear Parents/Guardians,

This year we are happy to announce a new approach to the summer reading program at Archbishop Ryan.  Because students read better when they read material that interests them, we have gathered a large selection of suggestions from our entire faculty.   The books represented on the following lists include works from a variety of authors about a variety of topics.  We are certain that each child will find something on the list that will interest him or her.

Summer reading plays an integral part in the academic development of your child.  Research indicates that reading not only helps students keep their skills sharp, but it also aids in the development of rich vocabulary and helps students to become better writers. Consider the findings of noted reading researcher Stephen Krashen in his 1993 book The Power of Reading:

·        People who read more, write better.

·        Outstanding high school writers reported extensive summer reading.

·        Reading as a leisure activity is the best predictor of comprehension, vocabulary and reading speed.

·        If children read one million words a year, at least one thousand words will be added to their vocabulary.

·        Studies also showed that spelling improved the more kids read.

Hopefully, you will encourage your child to read more than one book.  Reading other books (on the list or not), magazines, and newspapers will help your child retain and refine the kinds of skills they need to do well in school and to perform well in standardized tests like the SATs. Please be certain that your child is ready to write about the book on the FIRST FULL DAY of school.  

Thank you for entrusting your child's education to all of us at Archbishop Ryan.  Let us work together to make your child a better reader and a better writer.

Sincerely,

Kathleen Szymborski, English Chairperson

Archbishop Ryan High School