Perpich Arts High School Literary Arts Department Presents “Schrödinger’s Reading: The Great Search for the Plot” a Lit Reading

May 14, 2026

Students in the Literary Arts program at Perpich Arts High School closed out the school year with “Schrödinger’s Reading: The Great Search for the Plot”, a final public reading on May 13, 2026 that celebrated storytelling, growth, and the community built through creative writing.

Jalena Gumban (Literary Arts 2026) reads at “Schrödinger’s Reading: The Great Search for the Plot,” a final public reading on May 13, 2026

Held at Open Book on Washington Avenue in Minneapolis, the event featured original student work that reflected on friendship, vulnerability, change, and the shared experience of artistic growth. For many seniors, the reading marked an emotional final performance before graduation.

“It was the most meaningful sharing my writing has felt in a minute,” said Jalena Gumban (Literary Arts 2026). “I did write something that I was proud of, and people received it. I made some sort of impact there.”

Gumban described the reading as both nerve-racking and rewarding, especially because her piece focused on the relationships she built during her time in Literary Arts and at Perpich. “My bubble is you,” she said while reflecting on her classmates. “It wouldn’t be a bubble without you.”

Students also reflected on the power of hearing work performed aloud. Gumban noted that each writer’s voice transformed once they stepped in front of an audience. “Watching everyone’s stories come to life one last time was beautiful,” she said. “There’s this voice that becomes so much more present when there’s an audience.”

In addition to preparing for the final reading, Gumban recently helped publish The Goose, the Literary Arts program’s literary magazine which amplifies the voices of 7th-12th grade students from across Minnesota. She described the experience as an important lesson in collaboration and leadership. “It felt very partnered, very cohesive,” she said. “Being part of The Goose made me feel like a good leader for once.”

Principal Rebecca Bullen praised the evening for its emotional depth and honesty. “The evening was filled with depth, honesty, humor, questioning, and connection,” Bullen said. “Their writing brought the audience into reflection, tears, hope, and inspiration. It was moving and so human.”

The reading served as a fitting conclusion to the Literary Arts school year and a celebration of the voices, vulnerability, and creativity shared within the Perpich community.

Open Book is a gathering place, sanctuary, and destination for all who are interested in or inspired by the literary and book arts. Their mission is dedicated to diverse and dynamic creativity, conversation, and collaboration rooted in the literary and book arts.

Congratulations to all involved with the Literary Arts reading!