Book Studies for young readers · Grades 2–8

A book club where kids read one page beyond the bookmark.

Small-group Book Studies led by certified teachers. Students read a great book together, then meet each week to discuss, debate, and dig deeper — building comprehension, vocabulary, and confidence.

Join the next Book Study How it works

Small Groups. Real Discussion. Books that Kids Actually Enjoy.

The Book Study

Read together. Think together. Grow together.

Our signature program. Students are grouped by age and reading level, read an engaging book over several weeks, and meet weekly with a certified teacher to discuss it — like a book club, with the depth of a great classroom conversation. Sessions meet in person at Saint Bonaventure Catholic School in Davie, Florida.

Books worth talking about

Award winners, modern favorites, and hidden gems — chosen for each group's age, level, and interests.

Small groups, big ideas

Discussion works best in small groups, so every reader gets heard — and learns to listen, question, and back up their opinions.

Led by real teachers

Every group is guided by a Florida-certified teacher who knows how to turn "it was good" into real conversation.

Skills that transfer

Comprehension, vocabulary, and critical thinking that show up in school — from FAST reading scores to class discussions.

Also available

One-On-One Tutoring

Need something more individual? We also offer private tutoring in mathematics, phonics, comprehension, writing, and FAST test readiness for grades 2–8 — online or in-home.

How it works

How a Book Study works

Simple for parents. Genuinely fun for kids.

Join a group

Tell us your child's age and reading level, and we'll match them with a small group and a book they'll love. New studies start regularly.

Read each week

Students read assigned chapters at home — with a fun reading guide that gets them thinking before the group meets.

Meet & discuss

The group comes together weekly with their teacher to talk about the book: big questions, favorite moments, predictions, and debates.

Who we are

Two teachers. One mission.

Beyond the Bookmark was founded by two South Florida educators who believe every child can love reading and succeed in math. They just need the right book, the right challenge, and the right guide.

Lisa Balzer

Co-founder · M.Ed. · Certified Teacher

Lisa holds a Master's Degree in Education and has been a certified teacher for more than 25 years. She has dedicated her career to shaping young minds and making sure every child's brilliance gets the chance to shine.

Alex Cantamessa

Co-founder · Certified Teacher

Alex is a math and leadership teacher with a focus on mathematics and critical thinking skills. He specializes in helping older elementary and middle school students close gaps and build confidence.

Pricing

Built around your family

Every learner is different, so we don't do one-size-fits-all pricing. Group Book Studies keep costs friendly by design, and reading and math tutoring plans are shaped around your child's needs, goals, and schedule. Tell us about your child's needs and we'll put together options that fit — no pressure, no commitments, and the conversation is always free.

Get your options

Get started

Sign up for the next Book Study or Tutoring Session

Tell us about your child and we'll reach out within one business day with upcoming Book Study groups and reading and math tutoring options.

Email: lisa@beyondthebookmark.net
Email: alex@beyondthebookmark.net

Book Study: St. Bonaventure Catholic School, Davie, FL

Tutoring: Broward in-person — and online