The Margin Project has been an exciting addition to our school's literacy initiatives. Our principal introduced the program in the school's monthly newsletter to families. Student choice of reading material is paramount. While books are selected by students,  they often consult with teachers and peers in choosing book selections.  Students also delight in seeing what others are reading, and sharing written comments with others. Participation is optional, but many students are choosing to participate.

The Margin Project makes reading a social experience.

This project serves as a collection development tool. After reading written comments  and talking with students, it becomes clear which books resonate with them. They will frequently recommend Margin Project titles for purchase. It is also interesting to note the books which "disappear" from the project collection.  This may be a signal that copies need to be purchased for the library.  Students tend to write less in the books as they become involved in the story. Recently a book was returned without any comments. The student just couldn't waste time writing. He wanted to find out what happened next!  Students, teachers, administration and especially the library staff are realizing the benefits of  The Margin Project.

I recently read Gregory Funaro's Alistair Grim's Odditorium. What an amazing collection of fantastical delights: a gigantic building which can travel through time and is powered by playing a pipe organ, samurais, banshees, a castle dungeon in the clouds, armored skeletons with glowing red eyes,  creatures who are neither living nor dead, and fairies who are not always good. Then there is Prince Nightshade!

This seemed like a terrific vehicle for introducing students to Jen Malone's The Margin Project.  Aspects of this unique project include:

1. Kids actually write in specifically identified books.
2. The Margin Project creates a social experience for students. After they read a book and written notations in the margins, the book is passed on to another student, who may read and make notations on both the story and on the previous notations. 

I inaugurated the project with the fourth grade classes. During library time, I booktalked Alistair Grim's Odditorium and then demonstrated possible written entries. Students and teachers became very excited. Throughout the year I will do additional booktalks with galleys, demonstrating ideas for Margin Project notations.  Because all Fourth Grade classes are participating, books can be shared among the three classrooms.  I love the idea of making books social. This book served as a perfect vehicle for introducing The Margin Project to students.