Day 11: Choose One New Book to Book Talk
As school librarians, we love sharing books.
We get excited about a new picture book that makes us laugh out loud.
A middle grade novel we couldn’t put down.
A fascinating nonfiction title that leaves us saying, “Did you know…?”
That excitement is contagious.
When students hear us talk about a book we genuinely enjoyed, they’re much more likely to want to read it themselves.
But as the school year begins, it’s easy to put pressure on ourselves.
“I should have a different book talk ready for every grade.”
“I need a whole stack of recommendations.”
“I should have dozens of new titles prepared.”
Today’s Quick Win offers a different approach.
You don’t need twenty great book talks.
You just need one.
One book you genuinely can’t wait to share.
Why It Matters
Students remember enthusiasm more than information.
They may not remember every detail you tell them about a book.
But they’ll remember how excited you were to recommend it.
A sincere book talk can:
- Spark curiosity.
- Increase circulation.
- Introduce students to new genres.
- Encourage reluctant readers.
- Build anticipation for future library visits.
Sometimes a single recommendation creates a waiting list that lasts for weeks.
That’s the power of sharing books you truly love.
Your 20-Minute Challenge
Choose one book that you’re excited to recommend this year.
It doesn’t have to be brand new.
It simply needs to be a book you believe students will enjoy.
Ask yourself:
- Which book made me smile recently?
- Which story kept me turning pages?
- Which nonfiction title fascinated me?
- Which picture book would make a wonderful read-aloud?
- Which overlooked book deserves more attention?
Once you’ve chosen your book, spend a few minutes thinking about how you’ll introduce it.
Remember, you’re not giving a book report.
You’re creating curiosity.
Leave students wanting to know what happens next.
Try This Today
Write down three things about your chosen book.
1. A Great Hook
Begin with a question, surprising fact, or intriguing situation.
For example:
“What would you do if you discovered a mysterious key that unlocked a secret world?”
Or:
“Have you ever wished your pet could talk back?”
A good hook invites students into the story without giving too much away.
2. A Few Teasing Details
Share just enough to build interest.
Avoid revealing major surprises or the ending.
Your goal is to make students curious enough to check out the book.
3. Why You Loved It
This is the most important part.
Tell students what made the book memorable for you.
Maybe it made you laugh.
Maybe you couldn’t stop reading.
Maybe you learned something surprising.
Your genuine enthusiasm is often more persuasive than any summary.
Bonus Tip
Keep your first book talk short.
Aim for two or three minutes.
Leave students wanting more—not wishing it were over.
If possible, hold the book where everyone can clearly see the cover.
Sometimes a striking illustration is all it takes to catch a student’s attention.
You don’t have to be a dramatic storyteller or a polished presenter to give a wonderful book talk.
Students aren’t looking for perfection.
They’re looking for authenticity.
When they see a librarian who truly loves books, they notice.
Your excitement gives them permission to become excited too.
Never underestimate the influence of one heartfelt recommendation.
Years from now, a former student may not remember every lesson you taught.
But they might remember the day you held up a book and said,
“I think you’re going to love this one.”
And that recommendation could become the beginning of a lifetime of reading.
Reflection Question
If you could place just one book into the hands of every student who visits your library this month, which title would you choose?
What makes that book worth sharing?
For more in the August in the Library series, click here.
For more Library Administration posts, click here.
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