Recently, Central Middle School students participated in a “One School, One Book” reading of Lisa Fipps’s novel in verse, And Then, Boom! Ms. Fipps’s touching novel tells the story of Joe Oak as he struggles through challenges with poverty and loss at a young age and learns to trust and rely on those who care for him most.
On Friday, September 12, 2025, our student body had the opportunity to participate in a Live Q & A with Ms. Fipps through Google Meet. Students submitted questions, and those whose questions were chosen were able to ask them live from our library. Thanks to the students' prompts, the author shared her inspiration for the book, her writing process, and even shared some of her own life as our students thoughtfully engaged with her.
Later, students provided feedback online after the experience, citing their appreciation for the author spending time with our school, as well as praise and reflection on the novel. Here’s what a few students said:
“Thank you so much for meeting with the school! I had an AMAZING time. This book has really got me to be more grateful for what I do have, and not as much jealous of others. I am so excited to read your next book!”
“Hi!! I really liked the way you explained some of the questions, and made some kids feel not alone. I loved the way you responded to my question too! Thank you so much for taking your time out of the day to do this!!”
"Your writing process helped me begin thinking of a book of my own to write!”
The impact of our school-wide read continues! Throughout the month of September, CMS students collected donations for our Cats Care Closet here on campus, a resource similar to the “Magic Closet” Joe describes from his own school in the book. The generous donations collected helped us lay a great foundation for our Cats Care Closet, but if you are interested in helping us continue to fill gaps throughout the school year, please reach out to your child's grade level counselor.