Groups of 4 - 5 are optimal

Having a conversation does not come naturally

Have signals for "too noisy", "time to begin", etc.

Practice getting into and out of the circle A LOT

Trust that they'll talk even if I'm not hovering

Have books worth talking about

Always reflect after a discussion

Rejoice in the small steps students take

 Remember this is hard -- even for adults

When they start to get it, they're empowered!  Literature starts to come alive for them in new ways.  It's worth the hard work and patience.

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