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TRENTON — A vampire saga is drawing high school students to reading like the immortal characters are drawn to blood.

Edgewood High School students are tearing through the pages of "Twilight," the first novel in a series of four that chronicle the relationship of a young girl and a vampire.

The book was the topic of discussion at this month's book club meeting Monday, Oct. 6, where students were buzzing about the series.

"They're really interesting books," said senior Tori Coat, who admitted she usually avoids reading, but devoured all four books by flashlight in just over two days during last month's blackout.

"I really hated to read and since I read those books I enjoy reading more than I used to," Coat said.

Senior Maggi Payne said the plot offers "one thing after the next."

The novel's wide appeal brought high school students of all ages to the book discussion, which featured coffee, cake, vampire fangs and giveaways.

Freshman Sheyanne Crank said the coffee house settings adds fun to the book club.

"Usually it would be sitting in the school in one room and talking, but this is pretty cool," she said.

The club started last year thanks to a grant from the Middletown Community Foundation, profits from a book fair and efforts from the school's English and special education teachers.

The school purchased about 20 copies of "Twilight."

"We can't keep the book in the library. Everybody wants them," said English teacher Katrina Fugate, who estimates more than 30 percent of students have read the book.

Next month, the students will be reading "Buddha Boy," but the excitement over "Twilight" isn't likely to fade. On Nov. 21, the movie will be released in theaters.

Contact this reporter at (513) 705-2551 or mengle@coxohio.com.