Reading is a powerful way to stay connected with your loved one in prison, and creating a family reading challenge can make the experience even more meaningful. By choosing books that everyone can read and discuss together, you can foster a sense of togetherness and shared purpose. Here’s how to create a successful family reading challenge:

1. Choose Books Together

Start by selecting a list of books that everyone in the family, including your incarcerated loved one, would enjoy reading. Consider genres that appeal to everyone and discuss potential titles through letters, phone calls, or during visits. Make sure the books are accessible to your loved one, whether through the prison library, a care package, or an approved vendor.

Tip: Choose a mix of genres and lengths to keep the challenge interesting and ensure there’s something for everyone.

2. Set a Realistic Timeline

Decide on a timeline that allows everyone to participate without feeling rushed. Depending on the length of the books and everyone’s reading speed, you might set a goal to finish one book a month or every few weeks. Be flexible and adjust the timeline as needed, especially considering the constraints your loved one may face in accessing books.

Tip: Create a reading schedule that includes checkpoints where everyone can discuss the book, either in person or through letters.

3. Create a Discussion Plan

Plan regular discussions to talk about the book’s themes, characters, and plot. These discussions can take place through letters, phone calls, or during visits. Encourage everyone to share their thoughts, favorite parts, and questions. This helps maintain a connection and ensures that everyone feels involved, despite the physical distance.

Tip: Use open-ended questions to spark deeper conversations, such as “What did you think of the main character’s choices?” or “How did the ending make you feel?”

4. Incorporate Creative Activities

Make the reading challenge more interactive by incorporating creative activities. For example, you can write letters to each other as if you were characters in the book, draw scenes from the story, or even write an alternative ending together. These activities add an element of fun and creativity to the challenge, making it more engaging for everyone.

Tip: Consider keeping a shared journal or scrapbook where everyone can contribute their thoughts, drawings, or reflections on the book.

5. Celebrate Milestones

Celebrate each time a book is completed with a small reward or special recognition. This could be as simple as sending a congratulatory letter, sharing a favorite memory related to the book, or planning a future activity based on the story. Celebrating milestones helps maintain motivation and gives everyone something to look forward to.

Tip: If possible, plan a special celebration when the challenge is complete, such as reading the final chapter together during a visit or exchanging letters reflecting on the overall experience.

Conclusion

Creating a family reading challenge that includes your loved one in prison is a wonderful way to stay connected and share meaningful experiences. By choosing books together, setting a realistic timeline, planning discussions, incorporating creative activities, and celebrating milestones, you can create a shared journey that strengthens your bond. This challenge not only brings your family closer but also offers an opportunity for growth, learning, and mutual support, making the time apart more bearable and filled with purpose.