JACKSON HOLE, WYO – Every year, the International Literacy Association, with assistance from cosponsor Children’s Book Council, compiles a Choices Book list used by schools other institutions nationwide. Approximately 100 titles are included in the recommended reading list but it is where they are sourced that makes this story special.
The program is a collaboration between the Children’s Book Council and the International Literacy Association. It was started in 1975, and is the only event where children from around the country vote to create a list of top books.
Partner schools are sent a large selection of books every other week. Students use a ballot to identify the books they liked, sort of liked or did not like. Votes are tallied by the project coordinators, with the 100 top vote getters being included on the Choices Book list recommendations for other children.
Teton County School District students participate in the program between September and February. In doing so, district schools receive approximately $45,000 worth of books for free.
