Book Buddies is a dynamic book club that fosters literacy among MNPS students at the Juvenile Detention Center by providing access to high-quality, relevant reading materials and creating meaningful connections with members of the Nashville community to inspire a lifelong love of reading.
Book: Long Way Down (graphic novel version) by Jason Reynolds
Book Buddies will need to pick up a copy of the book the week of January 5, 2026, begin reading and complete the introductory infographic. Students will receive their copy of the book and their buddy's infographic on January 15, 2026. Book Buddies will last 4-5 weeks. The schedule is subject to change.
A free copy of the book is available for every buddy, courtesy of the Parnassus Foundation. Information will be sent to book buddies about how to pick up their free copy. Book buddies are welcome to purchase their own copy, if they prefer.
Buddies needed: 50 (We aim to pair each student with their own buddy.)
Buddy responsibilities:
· Complete the introductory infographic to introduce yourself to your student reading buddy. This will be sent directly to you.
· Read the book according to the weekly schedule.
· Read your student buddy’s response to the prompts and send a short video recording in which you respond to your student buddy’s thoughts about the reading and include your own thoughts as well.
· Follow the established timeline and procedure for providing a video response. Information on sharing your video will be sent to you. Buddies will not meet with students in person.
Adult book buddies will only correspond with their student through recorded video and written responses sent to the MNPS School Health team. Book buddies will not be meeting with students in person.
For more information, please contact Lindsey Kimery, Coordinator or Library Services via email at lindsey.kimery@mnps.org.
