List Detail
2016: The Invention of Wings by Sue Monk Kidd
The One School, One Book selection for 2016 is The Invention of Wings, by Sue Monk Kidd. All students are expected to read the novel before the first day of school so that they are ready to engage with the book in all their classes through discussions, projects, assessments, performances, and other assignments.
All parents, alumni, and coaches are invited to read the book as well. The opportunity to awaken our imaginations and enlarge our humanity is fulfilled when ALL of us together encourage students to read for pleasure and to engage in thoughtful discussion. In the beginning of the school year there will be opportunities for parents and other adults in the community to engage in conversation.
New York Times Book Reccomendation
The New York Times has recommended two new and related books for summer reading in 2016: Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi and Underground Airlines by Ben H. Winters. Release dates and summaries may be found in this article.
Back
As a Catholic school, we promote critical and reflective engagement with complex characters, stories, and situations. This book contains scenes that depict the dehumanizing violence and abuse inflicted on slaves. Many characters in the book find themselves with limited or no freedom of choice and sometimes act in ways that some readers may find questionable. We encourage parents to read the novel with their children and to discuss the physical, social, emotional, moral, and spiritual dilemmas the characters confront, especially in light of Catholic social teaching, American history, and current events.
New York Times Book Reccomendation
The New York Times has recommended two new and related books for summer reading in 2016: Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi and Underground Airlines by Ben H. Winters. Release dates and summaries may be found in this article.
Recommended Films
Twelve Years a Slave (2013, Rated R)
Soundtrack for a Revolution (2009, Not Rated)
Soundtrack for a Revolution (2009, Not Rated)
*These films contain themes and issues related to those in Invention of Wings. Families are encouraged to use discretion in viewing them.
Justin-Siena High School
Justin-Siena is a Lasallian Catholic college preparatory community that serves young people in grades 9–12.