About the Course
Calling all enthusiastic readers! Do you like talking about books almost as much as you like reading them? Join our 12-week reading challenge to meet other curious and motivated readers and talk about books. This course meets six times over 12 weeks and is guided by an instructor. Every two weeks, we’ll take up a new challenge: to select and read a book that satisfies the challenge category. In between meetings, we’ll engage in virtual discussions and prepare reviews on the book(s) we’ve read.
Each of our five reading challenges connects to a narrative element, such as genre, narrative structure, point of view, setting, and characterization, so while students may select and read different books, we will have a common touchstone for conversation. How you meet and satisfy the challenge of the given categories is up to you! Delve into new genres, discover authors and titles, connect with fellow readers, and build your “to-read” list. Join this community of devoted readers who are passionate about books; you’ll read lots, have fun, and receive a limited-edition CTY Reading Challenge souvenir for participating in the class!
Learning Objectives
- Evaluate books and recommend them based on audience appeal
- Advance group discussions with insightful questions and observations
- Deliver an exciting and persuasive book talk
- Create categories that could be used to host your own reading challenge or book club
- Build a list of books you want to read based on peer recommendations
About Skillshop Challenge courses
Skillshop Challenge courses build community among learners with shared interests by providing a space for exploration and skill development. These courses culminate in an accomplishment such as a capstone project or in the completion of a competitive goal.
Requirements
CTY courses have grade-level requirements and most require minimum test scores. Some courses may also have prerequisites.
Identification DetailsDates and Tuition
Online
You will be asked to join or sign in first.
Days: Every Sun for 13 weeks
Times: 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm
Register by: December 15, 2025
Time Commitment:
Please acquire all course materials by the course start date, unless noted as perishable. Items marked as “perishable” should not be acquired until the student needs them in the course. If you have questions about these materials or difficulty locating them, please contact [email protected].
Students will select their own books to satisfy five reading challenges with set criteria and will either purchase their books or borrow them from the library. Students will not need to borrow or buy books for this course until after the course begins. Access to a local or digital library is recommended.
Time Commitment: 4-5 hours per week (90 minutes of synchronous class time, 3-4 hours of independent work). Course will include 6 sessions over 12 weeks.
You will be asked to join or sign in first.
Days: Every Sun for 13 weeks
Times: 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm
Register by: February 17, 2026
Time Commitment:
Please acquire all course materials by the course start date, unless noted as perishable. Items marked as “perishable” should not be acquired until the student needs them in the course. If you have questions about these materials or difficulty locating them, please contact [email protected].
Students will select their own books to satisfy five reading challenges with set criteria and will either purchase their books or borrow them from the library. Students will not need to borrow or buy books for this course until after the course begins. Access to a local or digital library is recommended.
Time Commitment: 4-5 hours per week (90 minutes of synchronous class time, 3-4 hours of independent work). Course will include 6 sessions over 12 weeks.
Registration Fee and Financial Aid
Tuition and fees will be waived or reduced for students who qualify for financial aid.
Learn more about Financial Aid