Welcome to the Virtual Library Learning Commons!
The Panthers Book Club is back for the 2026-2027 school year. We look forward to having our returning students and any new student(s) join our club.
We create a welcoming and inclusive community where students can discover the joy of reading, share their ideas and opinions, and connect with others through books. We aim to encourage a love of reading, meaningful discussion, critical thinking, and friendship building.
When: Thursday, Oct 15th, 2026
Time: 2:30 pm
Where: Library Learning Commons
The Forest of Reading is Canada's reading program for school-aged children. Its goal is to promote the love of reading for all young people. It is run by the Ontario Library Association and includes a variety of grade levelled books. "The Forest" helps celebrate Canadian authors and their books, in addition to publishers, authors, and artists.
High school students at our school are part of the Gr. 9-12 level of the Forest of Reading, which is called "White Pine". Students read these books, and if they can read 5 books by April, they are eligible to vote on the titles. Then, with their input and votes winners are announced. This not only gives students a voice but also encourages students to have a genuine and lifelong love of reading.
The White Pine reading program offers Gr. 9-12 students the opportunity to read young adult fiction titles about a variety of themes and topics. At the end of the year, students cast their votes on the book they think should be the winner of the White Pine award. The winner is announced at the Forest of Reading Festival at the end of May.
Besides reading, of course, we participate in meaningful and inspiring activities and discussions around the themes and characters of these novels, and make connections to our own lives. Last year, our Book Club had the privilege of virtually welcoming author Zoulfa Katouh to ask her questions about As Long as the Lemon Trees Grow and what it's like to be an author.