A Wonderland of Reading 

Each year Shorecrest hosts a Book Fair for students and families. The purpose of a book fair is to provide the opportunity for students to experience the excitement and joy of books and reading. The goal is for children to leave “with a book and a smile.” For many of us as adults, the memories of a childhood book fair are filled with magic and nostalgia. 

It is important to note that the Shorecrest Book Fair includes works which are selected by Shorecrest teachers. Teachers have created wish lists for their own classrooms, in addition to helping curate a fully customized book fair inventory. These book suggestions are inspired by their annual lesson plans and curriculum, as well as student interests and passions. As an independent school, we value the autonomy of our teachers and administrators to create their own curriculum and choose their own books. The Book Fair is an excellent example of our mission in action. 

Over the past 10 years we have worked primarily with Scholastic for our Book Fair, but this year we have decided to partner with Tombolo Bookstore -- a well-regarded, local, independent bookstore in St. Petersburg (and Dr. Bianco’s favorite bookstore!) The year’s overall theme for the Book Fair is Wooded Wonderland. Guided by Book Fair Chair Abbi Reynolds, the parent-volunteer team plans to transform the Raymund Center into a forest of learning. The forest and trees are a metaphor for learning and the organic spirit of growth and regrowth. Each grade in the Experiential and Lower Schools will have its own carefully curated content and decor that mirrors the inquiry units studied in that grade’s curriculum. There will be special guest readers and fun activities throughout the week. 

In addition to books, local artists and vendors have been invited to sell custom items such as bookmarks, stickers and other age appropriate items. This year’s Book Fair is a truly collaborative and imaginative event, with roots deep within our city, our school’s parent community, and our students’ classrooms. Every Experiential and Lower School class has a designated time to attend during the week and parents may choose to join them if you wish. 

The Shorecrest Book Fair will be open to all in the Raymund Center April 18-21 during the following hours:

Tuesday, April 18, 8am-4:30pm
Wednesday, April 19, 8am-4:30pm
Thursday, April 20, 8am-5pm
Friday, April 21, 8am-Noon

We hope that you will join in and stop by during this fun, exciting, and meaningful event. Children and parents are encouraged to visit throughout the week as their schedules permit. I look forward to seeing many of you at our Wooded Wonderland Book Fair!