the BIGGEST book in the world... for PEACE

The Groton-Dunstable Middle School
BOOKMAKERS AND DREAMERS FOR PEACE



WHAT IF WE SET OUT TO MAKE THE BIGGEST BOOK IN THE WORLD??

It seemed like a passing idea at first, but enthusiasm grew. Mrs. Sawyer urged that if the students were truly committed to making the world's biggest book, "the topic should be about something REALLY important, right?" The students concurred and began discussing issues such as poverty, violence, the environment, etc. After several iterations (and some timely influence by activist-singer Jimmy Cliff) they finally agreed the most important topic of all was World Peace. And on that day, a world-changing idea was born.

This small band of Groton-Dunstable students adopted the name "Bookmakers and Dreamers Club for Peace, and embarked upon a grand learning experience. They were transported backwards through history and forwards into the future, down the street to the local voting centers and all around the world.

The students launched a massive letter writing campaign seeking answers to their questions about World Peace. To their amazement, they began receiving letters and notes of encouragement from people of all walks of life, including noteworthy leaders such as: The Dalai Lama; Nelson Mandela; Maya Angelou; Former Presidents Jimmy Carter and Bill Clinton: Senators Kennedy and Kerry; Princes William and Harry and more. Three years later, the kids have responses from nearly 500 local and global icons. In addition, this six-week long "temporary class" has now become a permanent and popular fixture in this celebrated Middle School, And, the University of Massachusetts School of Engineering, the Boston Museum of Science, the Carter Center and others have each expressed strong interest in supporting the project in their unique and respective ways.