Briarcliff Manor Students Give Booktalks

From Syntax: A record 61 fourth- and fifth-grade students showcased 32 booktalks during the annual Video Booktalk Club’s premiere party at Briarcliff Manor’s Todd Elementary School.

“Everyone enjoyed the screening and the treats afterward,” said teacher librarian Tara Phethean.

Working with Phethean and Briarcliff Manor Public Library teen librarian Amy Kaplan, club members are challenged each year to brainstorm, write scripts, rehearse and then record book trailers about books they love.

During the premiere party, students enjoy a red-carpet treatment leading up to the screening and tasty book-themed treats afterward.

Each club member received a personalized certificate of appreciation, a photo and a DVD.

“The video booktalks were incredible,” said parent Adrienne Shulman. “[It is] such a great project and experience for the kids.”

Photo Captions: Fourth- and fifth-grade students at Briarcliff Manor’s Todd Elementary School created trailers about their favorite books called “booktalks” that were debuted at a special premiere party.

Photo courtesy of the Briarcliff Manor Union Free School District