June 23, 2022-- At the beginning of the school year, Intermediate East students were challenged by teacher Angela Germano to read 40 books throughout the year, and document their literary journey, collecting all their data and sharing their love of reading (as well as their love of a healthy reading competition!).

Tall order, right? Not for these kids. Those who completed the challenge had a class celebration yesterday in their honor, receiving a gift bag including a PopIt bracelet; stickers from the BackStop on Route 37; deluxe attractions pass for Urban Air Adventure Park in Toms River; a free entree from Bubbakoo’s Burritos in Toms River and Wall; and a very special first edition signed copy of A Wing and a Prayer from eco-adventure series author John Morano.

"Their hearts and smarts will take them far," said Germano, and we agree. Congratulations to the 40-Book Challenge winners!