"Reading Together" is a weekly gathering hosted by the Chavchavadze Center that brings young readers ages 8 and up together to explore new books, develop literacy skills, and form meaningful friendships.

Each Saturday afternoon, participants convene to embark on reading adventures, taking turns selecting engrossing stories spanning genres, eras, and places. From Georgian classics to British children's tales, every book introduces new vocabulary, characters, and worlds to discover.

While reading, the group analyzes themes, discusses character motives, and makes connections across stories. To unlock new vocabulary, they maintain an ongoing “explaining dictionary” of new words and their meanings.

Participants also share insights into historical figures and events that arise in the books, expanding their knowledge. Whether following Roald Dahl’s witty heroine Matilda or unraveling a mystery in an Italian village, the young readers become invested in each unfolding story.

The group is led by renowned Georgian writer Zaal Samadashvili, who provides guidance and inspiration to the budding young bibliophiles.

Beyond building literacy skills, Reading Together fosters a tight-knit community among the participants. Laughter and inside jokes accompany their reading sessions. During discussions, friendships deepen as the readers exchange their perspectives with each other.

Project “Reading together” is generously supported by the University of Georgia