On Thursday, April 16, Saint Ann’s held its fifth annual One Book Day! On that day, sixth, seventh, and eighth graders immersed themselves in the world of The Teacher of Nomad Land, an adventure-packed novel about orphaned siblings in World War II-era Iran. The book, winner of both the 2025 National Award for Young People’s Literature and a Newbery Honor, was the perfect vehicle for One Book Day, during which students and faculty read a common text and delve deeply into themes and ideas inspired by it. The morning opened with an in-person keynote talk by Nomad Land author Daniel Nayeri, followed by more than 30 workshops—all designed and run by faculty—with topics including the history of oil, backgammon, Persian fairy tales, World War II geopolitics, and many more. Each student had the chance to attend two workshops. Lunch that day was book-themed as well, featuring a menu of Iranian dishes prepared by chef Amra Tomlinson and the kitchen team. The library and the upper middle school office—organizers of the event—send love and gratitude to all who participated!
