It has been awhile! I have finished a few books and I need to get better at discussing them. We are in full swing of speech season with tournaments each weekend so some of my personal reading takes a backseat...sadly...
This weekend the Titan Talkers competed in Minden, which was a 2 1/2 hour drive, which isn't so bad but it meant we had to leave school at 4:45 am, and so I left at 4:15 from my house. Nice early morning, although my husband coming home an hour and a half before I had to get up to start the day made it hard to actually get any sleep. The Minden tournament was excellent as many performers made finals and we won the tournament. Very exciting for the team!!
Last weekend my brother came up for a visit and brought his 8 month (ish) old chocolate lab pointer mix, Remington. Remy and Dart ( also a chocolate lab mix- but smaller than Remy already) love playing and got a bit too rough inside the house. Somehow Dart got a small cut on his ear and it bled like crazy. We eventaully got the bleeding stopped and put Dart upstairs to calm down (he still wanted to keep playing). When retreiving him from his/our room I walked into a massacre. Blood spatter covered a wall and there were blood drippings on the carpet. And there sat Dart, an innocent look in his eyes, blood dripping from his ear. Apparently the bleeding only stopped until Dart decided to shake. It honsestly looked like there was a murder due to the blood spatter. We didn't realize how much dog ears bleed and should have kept applying pressure. After a second incident with the same results, we realized what we were trying just didn't work. Using the internet to look up remedies to fix the bleeding, we saw that superglue is often used to stop the wound. While carefully attempting to close the small wound, we accidentally dripped some on the side of his ear. Apparently we didn't get it in the right spot though and the bleeding continued. The next remedy we saw involved dipping the ear in corn starch or baby powder to stop up the bleeding. Tried that, didn't work either. Now Dart has superglue with baby powder stuck to it on his ear and still bleeding. This is all on Saturday. We finally resort to sticking a bandaid on his ear (looked like an eartag used on livestock) which makes it rhough the night, for the most part. Come Sunday, we finally take him in to the emergency vet. I felt like a terrible parent having to explain the superglue/poweder residue but they didn't seem too surprised (they must have seen it all!). Dart received an excellent head wrap (to apply pressure to the ear and allow it to scab without him shaking it off) and 24 hours later, no more bleeding. But he does have to live with a bald spot and a wounded ego from the photos taken with the head wrap.
Most recently, I read the book This Dark Endeavor by Kenneth Oppel.
This is considered a "prequel" to Frankenstein. Normally I am not a big fan of books that someone starts to build off of another's series but I thought I would give it a shot. I was pleasantly surprised. The book follows young Victor Frankenstein, his twin brother Kondrad, their cousin Elizabeth and friend Henry. They are all around the age of 16. This group of friends comes acorss a secret room in their chateu that is a "dark library." They are forbidden to ever visit this room as the dark alcecmy that is covered in these books is considered illegal. But when Konrad falls ill with a mysterious illness that confound even the doctors, Victor takes it upson himself to seek a cure. He comes across a recipe for the Elixer of Life. The recipe is written in a secret language so he, Elizabeth, and Henry naturally start an adventure to find someone who can decode the language and create the recipe. They find an old alchemist in town who is willing to help them. Each ingredient the recipe requires gets harder and harder to acquire and eventaully Konrad gets better, for the time being. However, Victor wishes to finish the recipe. I don't like telling too much of the story because it is never fun to read a spoiler. The writing itself was good, it is aimed at a YA audience but I didn't enjoy seeing some vocabulary words I have taught in the past. The adventure is exciting and keeps your attention and their is a bit or romance intermingled as well. Knowing the story of Frankenstein made me keep wondering if we would see Victor slip from thrill seeking youth to mad scientist. There is another book out, that I haven't got to yet but the end of This Dark Endeavor gives a reason for why he would want to reanimate the dead. If you like the original, you may like the prequel.
Sunday, February 10, 2013
Wednesday, January 16, 2013
The Things That Go Bump in the Night
January is flying! I can not believe that we are already in the middle of the month. Sometimes 3rd quarter can drag as it is cold, it gets dark early, and there is still a whole quarter and whatever is left in 3rd quarter before summer break. Methinks a snow day should fall upon us just one more time. Last school year- no snow days. It was wonderful to get out 5 days earlier for the summer; however, it is really nice to have that unplanned day to sleep in, catch up on grading, clean the house, read a book (uninterrupted). With that being said, yes we did have one snow day on the 2nd to last day of the semester in December, and it was magnificent. I could still use one more. During the last week of January would be fine. We could still get out 3 days early. Make it happen. Thanks.
This week my life has been composed of syncing iPads. Normally, it is a one day process for me to sync one cart with all the new apps we've downloaded. I am still not sure of the reasoning but this sync is on day 2 1/2. I blame the new iTunes. It wasn't as easy to see that some of my new apps weren't making it on the iPads even though "automatically sync new apps" is checked. Sorry to go on a "techie" rant, it was just much more user friendly previous to the new facade. oh well, I suppose I just need to get out of my comfort zone.
On to a new review!
I did just finish Life of Pi and it was wonderful. Reads like journal entries. I enjoyed the way he combined religious viewpoints and utilized rich descriptions. Definitely worth reading.
The review: A Monster Calls by Patrick Ness, Siobhan Dowd, illustrations by Jim Kay
I ordered this book back in Oct/Nov but hadn't picked it up until this week. The cover is black/grey image of a monster in the distance and with the title, didn't look like my kind of read. While doing some book review research to find new books to order, I read a review about A Monster Calls and found that my perception and the story itself were quite different.
A note before I start my review. The author, Siobhan Dowd, had the idea and some plot elements in notes before she passed away. Ness uses her ideas to convey this beautiful story.
The story follows a young boy (middle school age I am guessing) named Conor. Conor starts having a recurring nightmare after finding out his mother is diagnosed with cancer. One night, at 12: 07 AM Conor finds the yew tree from his backyard coming into his bedroom. Another nightmare, right? This is what Conor thinks until he finds leaves from the Yew tree all over his room. He tells the monster he is not scared of him "I have seen worse" which surprises the monster. The monster puts forth a deal, he will tell Conor 3 stories, but then Conor must tell him a story. The truth about the recurring nightmare Conor has.
During the day, Conor goes to school where he is greatly bullied by three boys and grows more distant from a good friend named Lily, who is the daughter of one of his mother's friends and he has been friends with forever. His grandma doesn't really understand him or any children for that matter. She hints at the idea of him going to live with her, which he definitely doesn't want to do. His dad lives in America and has a new family there, and doesn't think it would be good for Conor to live with them.
As the monster comes to tell his stories, Conor's relationships fall apart. His anger shows in his actions. His classmates begin to ignore him and he is afraid to let go.He doesn't seem to be able to really talk with his mom about what is going on. The monster's tales do have a point, but it all comes together in the end as well as what is Conor's nightmare.
I do not know how to accurately sum up this book. It was beautiful and symbolic. The illustrations are magnificent. Have a tissue handy and give it a try.
This week my life has been composed of syncing iPads. Normally, it is a one day process for me to sync one cart with all the new apps we've downloaded. I am still not sure of the reasoning but this sync is on day 2 1/2. I blame the new iTunes. It wasn't as easy to see that some of my new apps weren't making it on the iPads even though "automatically sync new apps" is checked. Sorry to go on a "techie" rant, it was just much more user friendly previous to the new facade. oh well, I suppose I just need to get out of my comfort zone.
On to a new review!
I did just finish Life of Pi and it was wonderful. Reads like journal entries. I enjoyed the way he combined religious viewpoints and utilized rich descriptions. Definitely worth reading.
The review: A Monster Calls by Patrick Ness, Siobhan Dowd, illustrations by Jim Kay
I ordered this book back in Oct/Nov but hadn't picked it up until this week. The cover is black/grey image of a monster in the distance and with the title, didn't look like my kind of read. While doing some book review research to find new books to order, I read a review about A Monster Calls and found that my perception and the story itself were quite different.
A note before I start my review. The author, Siobhan Dowd, had the idea and some plot elements in notes before she passed away. Ness uses her ideas to convey this beautiful story.
The story follows a young boy (middle school age I am guessing) named Conor. Conor starts having a recurring nightmare after finding out his mother is diagnosed with cancer. One night, at 12: 07 AM Conor finds the yew tree from his backyard coming into his bedroom. Another nightmare, right? This is what Conor thinks until he finds leaves from the Yew tree all over his room. He tells the monster he is not scared of him "I have seen worse" which surprises the monster. The monster puts forth a deal, he will tell Conor 3 stories, but then Conor must tell him a story. The truth about the recurring nightmare Conor has.
During the day, Conor goes to school where he is greatly bullied by three boys and grows more distant from a good friend named Lily, who is the daughter of one of his mother's friends and he has been friends with forever. His grandma doesn't really understand him or any children for that matter. She hints at the idea of him going to live with her, which he definitely doesn't want to do. His dad lives in America and has a new family there, and doesn't think it would be good for Conor to live with them.
As the monster comes to tell his stories, Conor's relationships fall apart. His anger shows in his actions. His classmates begin to ignore him and he is afraid to let go.He doesn't seem to be able to really talk with his mom about what is going on. The monster's tales do have a point, but it all comes together in the end as well as what is Conor's nightmare.
I do not know how to accurately sum up this book. It was beautiful and symbolic. The illustrations are magnificent. Have a tissue handy and give it a try.
Friday, January 4, 2013
Wanted: Heroine, Not Whiny
Welcome to 2013. Excited to spend the next month remembering to write dates with a 13 instead of a 12? It takes me awhile to make the adjustment also.
Here is to 2013 being an outstanding year! New Year's Resolution (as it is every year) get into better shape. That doesn't mean huge diet and massive weight loss. It just means I need to be consistent with my gym appearances, maybe say no to the fries and ranch dressing when eating.
We have once again signed up to do the Lincoln Half Marathon, which means that I have extra motivation to get to the gym. I only shaved 2 minutes off my time last year from the previous year (2012- 2h 29 min), so I think I am actually going to try to train with a bit more vigor than the casual Sunday long distance runs, and occasional skipping of a weekday run. Walking into the gym after work this week, I have been greeted by a plethora of new faces, making it hard to find an available treadmill. Hitting the gym is a common resolution, but it never lasts long. I've seen this phenomena each year I have been a member of Prairie Life, and once February rolls along, quite a few eager treadmill and weights enthusiasts have gone back to their original sedentary lifestyles... I can stick it out.
Review Review Review Review Review Review Review Review Review Review
City of Bones by Cassandra Clare
I finished City of Bones over my break from school. Along with a few James Patterson's (my guilty pleasure). I previously reviewed Clockwork Angel which was a prequel book to the this text and the Mortal Instruments series. City of Bones and the other books in the Mortal Instrument series were written first, and then came Clockwork Angel, Clockwork Prince, and the highly anticipated Clockwork Princess (March 2013 I believe?) which are called the Infernal Devices.
I quite enjoyed the Clockwork books, and the time period they were set in. After reading City of Bones, I found I haven't been as excited to pick up the next book in the series as I was with the prequel. This one does take place in modern times in New York City. It follows Clary Fray a 15 year old girl. Clary lives with her single Mother, (father passed away before she was born), and has a best friend named Simon, whom we know is in love with her yet she is too dense to figure it out. In the beginning of the story Clary and Simon are partying at the Pandemonium Club when Clary notices some attractive teens engage in strange behavior. She follows them, they kill someone. But it's alright, it turns out they are demon hunters and the person they killed was a demon. A bit shocking, yes. What is a teen to do? Mull it over but just go home and not worry about it.
Clary's mom and her get into a fight when she gets home, her mom is also acting strange. So she does what any good angsty teen will do, leave to a poetry reading with best friend Simon. While there she runs into one of the teens from the club, a Shadowhunter (what the group of demon killers are called) named Jace. She gets a call from her mom that sounds like an attack. She gets home, mom is missing, place is torn to pieces, and a demon tries to kill her. She kills it instead. She starts to realize that things going on around her aren't always as they seem. She can see through the "mists" and see things for what they are. Demons and other downworlders such as vampires, werewolves, fairies, etc exist, but they simply blend in to us unknowing "mundanes." Jace takes Clary back to the institute. She meets more Shadowhunters. They get into more trouble as her new found friends help her hunt for her missing mother. There is so much that goes on, but I really don't want to spoil it. Here is a quick list of events: (spoiler alert with last few bullets!)
Here is to 2013 being an outstanding year! New Year's Resolution (as it is every year) get into better shape. That doesn't mean huge diet and massive weight loss. It just means I need to be consistent with my gym appearances, maybe say no to the fries and ranch dressing when eating.
We have once again signed up to do the Lincoln Half Marathon, which means that I have extra motivation to get to the gym. I only shaved 2 minutes off my time last year from the previous year (2012- 2h 29 min), so I think I am actually going to try to train with a bit more vigor than the casual Sunday long distance runs, and occasional skipping of a weekday run. Walking into the gym after work this week, I have been greeted by a plethora of new faces, making it hard to find an available treadmill. Hitting the gym is a common resolution, but it never lasts long. I've seen this phenomena each year I have been a member of Prairie Life, and once February rolls along, quite a few eager treadmill and weights enthusiasts have gone back to their original sedentary lifestyles... I can stick it out.
Review Review Review Review Review Review Review Review Review Review
City of Bones by Cassandra Clare
I finished City of Bones over my break from school. Along with a few James Patterson's (my guilty pleasure). I previously reviewed Clockwork Angel which was a prequel book to the this text and the Mortal Instruments series. City of Bones and the other books in the Mortal Instrument series were written first, and then came Clockwork Angel, Clockwork Prince, and the highly anticipated Clockwork Princess (March 2013 I believe?) which are called the Infernal Devices.
I quite enjoyed the Clockwork books, and the time period they were set in. After reading City of Bones, I found I haven't been as excited to pick up the next book in the series as I was with the prequel. This one does take place in modern times in New York City. It follows Clary Fray a 15 year old girl. Clary lives with her single Mother, (father passed away before she was born), and has a best friend named Simon, whom we know is in love with her yet she is too dense to figure it out. In the beginning of the story Clary and Simon are partying at the Pandemonium Club when Clary notices some attractive teens engage in strange behavior. She follows them, they kill someone. But it's alright, it turns out they are demon hunters and the person they killed was a demon. A bit shocking, yes. What is a teen to do? Mull it over but just go home and not worry about it.
Clary's mom and her get into a fight when she gets home, her mom is also acting strange. So she does what any good angsty teen will do, leave to a poetry reading with best friend Simon. While there she runs into one of the teens from the club, a Shadowhunter (what the group of demon killers are called) named Jace. She gets a call from her mom that sounds like an attack. She gets home, mom is missing, place is torn to pieces, and a demon tries to kill her. She kills it instead. She starts to realize that things going on around her aren't always as they seem. She can see through the "mists" and see things for what they are. Demons and other downworlders such as vampires, werewolves, fairies, etc exist, but they simply blend in to us unknowing "mundanes." Jace takes Clary back to the institute. She meets more Shadowhunters. They get into more trouble as her new found friends help her hunt for her missing mother. There is so much that goes on, but I really don't want to spoil it. Here is a quick list of events: (spoiler alert with last few bullets!)
- suspect she is a shadowhunter herself
- talk to psychic that lives next door to get more info and missing mom
- see mom's best friend Luke (like an uncle to her) is being questioned by people associated with those her took her mom (the bad guy is Valentine, he is looking for the mortal cup- which Clary's mom took)
- Go to the High Warlock's party, find out that he had been helping erase her memories (she is the daughter of Shadowhunters, and her mom didn't want her in that world)
- They find out where the mortal cup is
- Valentine comes and steals Jace
- Jace is her brother (making her pining really disgusting)
- Valentine is her dad, wants her to join them in evil
Ok, so there is much more but those are probably the main points. Throw in some interesting adventures with Simon, the head of the Institute doing some backstabbing. And Clary herself being quite whiny. I still liked it, just not as much as Clockwork Angel. I feel like in much of the modern YA lit I have been reading that follow the fantasy angels/vampires all the heroines really like to complain. Why not take some of that out? Just fall in love, have a little angst, and kick butt? But, as I sit in my library listening to the Teens during their down time, maybe complaining is just what they do. :)
Thursday, December 13, 2012
Knocking out a few reviews
I have been away for far too long. What started out as an idea to blog about books, restaurants, writing as therapy so I can shut my mind off at night, ended up having a bit of a hiatus. No reason really, I suppose our December has been very busy and I have found myself thinking of bed as the hours would get closer to 10:00. The semester is almost done, one next week left! I am ready for this break as much as the students. This week has had a "holiday theme" for each day. Monday was ugly sweater day. Tuesday Christmas on the Beach, Wednesday- Night Before Christmas (pjs). Thursday- Santa's Workshop and helpers, and Friday is Red and Green day. Those of you that know me know I love to dress up and always take part in anything that calls for costuming. So, I have partaken in each day's dress and I am not ashamed to admit I may have had the ugliest sweater on Monday. I don't think I've ever had so many compliments "Wow, that is really UGLY!" It makes the days merry.
I meant to write a restaurant review earlier, but I suppose I can do it now.
Thad and I recently (with 2 friends) went to try out the new restaurant Honest Abes, a burger place. It is located in Meadow lane Plaza at 70th and Vine in Lincoln. The restaurant itself is a small hole in the wall, seating for about 25, as long as you don't mind sharing a table with others. You are able to see what to order to the large chalkboard covered in choices. It seems there are a few standard burgers they always have, as well as several interesting choices that rotate. I ordered the "Aphrodite" which was an excellent burger with feta, spinach, tomato chutney, pickled red onions and cucumber yogurt sauce. While this sounds like an "interesting" concoction, it was very flavorful and worth trying. The ingredients were all very fresh, and the burger patty itself was perfectly seasoned. Thad had a burger that rotates into the menu and I admit I've already forgotten what it was called. It was topped with a Cajun coleslaw, a firey dressing, jalapenos, and spinach, and based on the lack of food left over I can assume it was quite delicious also. For the vegetarians out there, you can substitute a portabella mushroom cap for any burger. One member of our group did that and seemed pleased. There are side options such as fries, onion rings, soup, and even a few salads. All in all, it was a very good meal. Great portions and prices. We will definitely make a trip back.
And the BOOK REVIEW
I just finished The Berlin Boxing Club by Robert Sharenow. This is a historical fiction that takes place in Germany as the Nazis begin to take over and threaten the livelihoods of the Jews. The main character, Karl, is of Jewish descent, but his family doesn't practice the religion nor have much familiarity with the traditions. As the Nazis begin to gain control over school and students begin joining Hitler Youth groups, he is targeted by boys at school as they know he has Jewish heritage. After being beaten up by a group of boys at school, Karl has to work as a server for his fathers art show at the family's gallery. He tries to pass off his injuries as "falling down the stairs" but one of his parents client's, famed boxer Max Schmeling, notices an injury from a fight when he sees it. His father trades him a painting for boxing lessons from Max for Karl. Karl slowly learns to fight and is able to gain muscle and strength as well. Max is in and out from teaching him as he travels to America often to set up fights, and he is trying to get one with Joe Louis, a famed American boxer. We see the lives of Karl's family get worse as restrictions cause them to close their gallery and the treatment of Jews gets worse and worse.
I that the writing was very well done, the story kept me interested. It is still so tough to hear how people were treated and how so many others didn't agree with what was going on and yet just let it happen. If you are a fan of historical fiction or even like hearing some history on boxing, this is a great choice to read.
I meant to write a restaurant review earlier, but I suppose I can do it now.
Thad and I recently (with 2 friends) went to try out the new restaurant Honest Abes, a burger place. It is located in Meadow lane Plaza at 70th and Vine in Lincoln. The restaurant itself is a small hole in the wall, seating for about 25, as long as you don't mind sharing a table with others. You are able to see what to order to the large chalkboard covered in choices. It seems there are a few standard burgers they always have, as well as several interesting choices that rotate. I ordered the "Aphrodite" which was an excellent burger with feta, spinach, tomato chutney, pickled red onions and cucumber yogurt sauce. While this sounds like an "interesting" concoction, it was very flavorful and worth trying. The ingredients were all very fresh, and the burger patty itself was perfectly seasoned. Thad had a burger that rotates into the menu and I admit I've already forgotten what it was called. It was topped with a Cajun coleslaw, a firey dressing, jalapenos, and spinach, and based on the lack of food left over I can assume it was quite delicious also. For the vegetarians out there, you can substitute a portabella mushroom cap for any burger. One member of our group did that and seemed pleased. There are side options such as fries, onion rings, soup, and even a few salads. All in all, it was a very good meal. Great portions and prices. We will definitely make a trip back.
And the BOOK REVIEW
I just finished The Berlin Boxing Club by Robert Sharenow. This is a historical fiction that takes place in Germany as the Nazis begin to take over and threaten the livelihoods of the Jews. The main character, Karl, is of Jewish descent, but his family doesn't practice the religion nor have much familiarity with the traditions. As the Nazis begin to gain control over school and students begin joining Hitler Youth groups, he is targeted by boys at school as they know he has Jewish heritage. After being beaten up by a group of boys at school, Karl has to work as a server for his fathers art show at the family's gallery. He tries to pass off his injuries as "falling down the stairs" but one of his parents client's, famed boxer Max Schmeling, notices an injury from a fight when he sees it. His father trades him a painting for boxing lessons from Max for Karl. Karl slowly learns to fight and is able to gain muscle and strength as well. Max is in and out from teaching him as he travels to America often to set up fights, and he is trying to get one with Joe Louis, a famed American boxer. We see the lives of Karl's family get worse as restrictions cause them to close their gallery and the treatment of Jews gets worse and worse.
I that the writing was very well done, the story kept me interested. It is still so tough to hear how people were treated and how so many others didn't agree with what was going on and yet just let it happen. If you are a fan of historical fiction or even like hearing some history on boxing, this is a great choice to read.
Monday, November 19, 2012
I'm not a "Twihard" more like a "Twisoft"
Tonight several friends and I went and saw the movie conclusion to the Twilight series by seeing Breaking Dawn pt 2. I won't say I am a "Twihard" as I didn't wait in line for hours on end to see the midnight premeir, nor dress up, hiss at Bella, wear a Team Edward or Jacob shirt (Team Edward by the way), but I have been to a few opening nights and do enjoy the series. This series is no where near cinematic greatness, but I admit, I find it enjoyable. There were a few times where it deviated from the text (which is inevitable in adaptations) but I was satisfied with the finale. It even seemed over "cheesed" from the previous films, as if some of the tensions and comments were intended to have that affect, and it worked. I giggled, I cringed, I enjoyed. If you like the franchise, it is worth it.
On to some books. I feel like I have read several books and not put up any reviews, epic fail in my book blog. I am currently reading more than I should at once, and story lines are starting to blend together, but I continue to attempt to balance my school reads, home reads, car reads, in order to ingest as much story telling as possible. I am reading Abraham Lincoln Vampire Hunter (Seth Grahame-Smith) and Confessions of a Murder Suspect (James Patterson) at home. I am listening to A Storm of Swords (George R.R. Martin) in the car to and from school, and just finished Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare at school. I am excited to start The Mark of Athena by Rick Riordan tomorrow. :)
Since I just finished Clockwork Angel, I figured I should talk about that one.
This text is the first in a prequel series called The Infernal Devices, which leads into the Mortal Instruments series- which has City of Bones (will be a movie soon).
The book takes place in early 1900s London. The main character, Tessa Gray, comes from America at the request of her brother. When she arrives a pair of sisters aptly named "The Dark Sisters" greet her, trap her in their mansion, and make her realize her powers to "change" which can involve morphing into other people dead or alive. Eventually we meet members of the Clave, which involve Shadowhunters who help govern supernatural characters such as downworlders like demons, vampires, warlocks. Those without powers are "mundane." When Tessa is freed by 2 young male shadowhunters, she goes with them to "the insitute" a safe house and seeks their help in finding her brother. We see tensions in the relationship between Tessa and Will (a shadow hunter), does he love her, is it hate? Young readers will delight in the relationship, it continues the fantasy relationship that we ladies love to read. A damsel in slight distress, the bad boy who doesn't want to admit his feelings. Eventually you read of a great battle, misdirection, and of course, the end leaves you hanging. (You have to read book 2 Clockwork Prince). Much like within the Percy Jackson series, the mundanes or mortals see none of what is really going on around them thanks to glamours.
Dark and enjoyable, get through the series in time for City of Bones.
I hope to finish my other texts over Thanksgiving break. Finally a break! I am quite excited to have a little "nothing" to do.
On to some books. I feel like I have read several books and not put up any reviews, epic fail in my book blog. I am currently reading more than I should at once, and story lines are starting to blend together, but I continue to attempt to balance my school reads, home reads, car reads, in order to ingest as much story telling as possible. I am reading Abraham Lincoln Vampire Hunter (Seth Grahame-Smith) and Confessions of a Murder Suspect (James Patterson) at home. I am listening to A Storm of Swords (George R.R. Martin) in the car to and from school, and just finished Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare at school. I am excited to start The Mark of Athena by Rick Riordan tomorrow. :)
Since I just finished Clockwork Angel, I figured I should talk about that one.
This text is the first in a prequel series called The Infernal Devices, which leads into the Mortal Instruments series- which has City of Bones (will be a movie soon).
The book takes place in early 1900s London. The main character, Tessa Gray, comes from America at the request of her brother. When she arrives a pair of sisters aptly named "The Dark Sisters" greet her, trap her in their mansion, and make her realize her powers to "change" which can involve morphing into other people dead or alive. Eventually we meet members of the Clave, which involve Shadowhunters who help govern supernatural characters such as downworlders like demons, vampires, warlocks. Those without powers are "mundane." When Tessa is freed by 2 young male shadowhunters, she goes with them to "the insitute" a safe house and seeks their help in finding her brother. We see tensions in the relationship between Tessa and Will (a shadow hunter), does he love her, is it hate? Young readers will delight in the relationship, it continues the fantasy relationship that we ladies love to read. A damsel in slight distress, the bad boy who doesn't want to admit his feelings. Eventually you read of a great battle, misdirection, and of course, the end leaves you hanging. (You have to read book 2 Clockwork Prince). Much like within the Percy Jackson series, the mundanes or mortals see none of what is really going on around them thanks to glamours.
Dark and enjoyable, get through the series in time for City of Bones.
I hope to finish my other texts over Thanksgiving break. Finally a break! I am quite excited to have a little "nothing" to do.
Monday, October 15, 2012
Revisiting a Classic
We are at the end of the quarter, or rather very near it. Only 3 days left (including today) and 1st quarter is complete, only 3 to go. I feel the school year is flying back, even faster than the last few years. I wonder if it is because I am (dare I say it?) enjoying my job quite a bit more than the previous years. Don't get me wrong, I liked teaching English 11, but I feel I have found my fit, my niche. After that introduction, off to another whimsical anecdote straight out of junior high.
My 7th grade speech class (this is the 2nd rotation) is off to a great start in writing their 3 point speeches. They have graphic organizers to help them write for structure, as well as an explanation page of what needs to go in the speech, along with their speech on note cards. I gave them paperclips to hold all these materials together as I keep their items in a folder in class (to avoid the "but I forgot all my materials at home AGAIN!"). During the 1st rotation, I did the same thing with my students but on the day the paperclips were given, one student formed it into a projectile, threw it across the room, missed his target and hit me square in the right lens of my glasses (I don't often wear my glasses). I was furious, and the 7th grade saw the first ever (and only) explosion into Ms. Incredible Hulk. No there was no destruction, just some yelling about throwing things, "shooting your eye out" business. Needless to say, when I handed out these paperclips I very carefully explained how a paperclip is to be used, to stay on their papers, and never ever be turned into anything but a paperclip. I never thought I would have to explain paper clip use, but this is just another thing I have learned from 7th grade. Oh, and avoid offering the suggest of using rubberbands, that is a whole different story. They keep me on my toes!
On to the reviews:
I revisited a classic last week: Flowers for Algernon by Daniel Keyes. I don't recall ever reading this one before, but all our 9th grade read it for class so I thought I better know what is going on in case they ever need help. The main character, Charlie Gordon, has learning disabilities and a low I.Q. He is in his 30s, has worked janitorial jobs in a friend of his Uncle's bakery for the last 15 (?) years. We get all our information as we read Charlie's "Progress Reports." They are journal entries where he details his thoughts, feeling, etc. The spelling/grammar is terrible in the beginning entries as Charlie always struggled to learn and does not retain information well. We learn that he is signed up to do a scientific research experiment where he will me made "smart." A lab rat named Algernon underwent the same experiment and was able to raise his intelligence, which is why they wanted to test a human subject. As Charlie's intelligence increases, we learn of the despicable home life he had (by his mother and sister), how those he thought of as his friends were often laughing at him and taking advantage of him, and generalities on how society often views those with disabilities. As his learning increases, you see the change in his progress reports in mechanics, how relationships, change. I thought it was a very poignant story as it makes us look into our own biases as we see how things change for Charlie. Eventually Charlie far surpasses the intelligence of those around him, taking the lead on research of his own experiment, but his time is limited. I found the ending to be very sad, but I won't go into any more detail as it is worth a read and spoilers and never any fun. I know that students often complain about the books they have to read, but I enjoyed Flowers for Algernon, it made me feel a range of emotions and tells much about the human spirit and psyche.
I also read a fantastic YA lit book called Wonder Struck by Brian Selznick. This is the same author who wrote The Invention of Hugo Cabret, which one a Caldecott medal (award for illustrations). Like with Hugo, this book has fantastic illustrations, pencil shade drawings that left me feeling like I would have smudges all over the pages and my fingers. They contain such great detail that as a reader you spend just as much time looking at the page as you would reading a page. This story follows Ben, whom just lost his mother and is searching for his father (whom he never met). This is written out, we also see the story of a girl named Rose, told through the illustrations. Ben discovers that his father lived in New York through some clues he found in his mother's room. The night he find's these, he picks up a phone to call the number of a bookstore given to his mother by his father. Lightning strikes the house at this same moment, causing the already deaf in one ear Ben to go deaf in the other. He still runs away from home to make his journey to NYC. Through the illustrations we see Rose also run to NYC and both end up at the Museum of Natural History. The parallel stories will eventually intertwine, revealing a heartwarming ending that satisfied. Writing was great, illustrations were superb, worth reading.
My 7th grade speech class (this is the 2nd rotation) is off to a great start in writing their 3 point speeches. They have graphic organizers to help them write for structure, as well as an explanation page of what needs to go in the speech, along with their speech on note cards. I gave them paperclips to hold all these materials together as I keep their items in a folder in class (to avoid the "but I forgot all my materials at home AGAIN!"). During the 1st rotation, I did the same thing with my students but on the day the paperclips were given, one student formed it into a projectile, threw it across the room, missed his target and hit me square in the right lens of my glasses (I don't often wear my glasses). I was furious, and the 7th grade saw the first ever (and only) explosion into Ms. Incredible Hulk. No there was no destruction, just some yelling about throwing things, "shooting your eye out" business. Needless to say, when I handed out these paperclips I very carefully explained how a paperclip is to be used, to stay on their papers, and never ever be turned into anything but a paperclip. I never thought I would have to explain paper clip use, but this is just another thing I have learned from 7th grade. Oh, and avoid offering the suggest of using rubberbands, that is a whole different story. They keep me on my toes!
On to the reviews:
I revisited a classic last week: Flowers for Algernon by Daniel Keyes. I don't recall ever reading this one before, but all our 9th grade read it for class so I thought I better know what is going on in case they ever need help. The main character, Charlie Gordon, has learning disabilities and a low I.Q. He is in his 30s, has worked janitorial jobs in a friend of his Uncle's bakery for the last 15 (?) years. We get all our information as we read Charlie's "Progress Reports." They are journal entries where he details his thoughts, feeling, etc. The spelling/grammar is terrible in the beginning entries as Charlie always struggled to learn and does not retain information well. We learn that he is signed up to do a scientific research experiment where he will me made "smart." A lab rat named Algernon underwent the same experiment and was able to raise his intelligence, which is why they wanted to test a human subject. As Charlie's intelligence increases, we learn of the despicable home life he had (by his mother and sister), how those he thought of as his friends were often laughing at him and taking advantage of him, and generalities on how society often views those with disabilities. As his learning increases, you see the change in his progress reports in mechanics, how relationships, change. I thought it was a very poignant story as it makes us look into our own biases as we see how things change for Charlie. Eventually Charlie far surpasses the intelligence of those around him, taking the lead on research of his own experiment, but his time is limited. I found the ending to be very sad, but I won't go into any more detail as it is worth a read and spoilers and never any fun. I know that students often complain about the books they have to read, but I enjoyed Flowers for Algernon, it made me feel a range of emotions and tells much about the human spirit and psyche.
I also read a fantastic YA lit book called Wonder Struck by Brian Selznick. This is the same author who wrote The Invention of Hugo Cabret, which one a Caldecott medal (award for illustrations). Like with Hugo, this book has fantastic illustrations, pencil shade drawings that left me feeling like I would have smudges all over the pages and my fingers. They contain such great detail that as a reader you spend just as much time looking at the page as you would reading a page. This story follows Ben, whom just lost his mother and is searching for his father (whom he never met). This is written out, we also see the story of a girl named Rose, told through the illustrations. Ben discovers that his father lived in New York through some clues he found in his mother's room. The night he find's these, he picks up a phone to call the number of a bookstore given to his mother by his father. Lightning strikes the house at this same moment, causing the already deaf in one ear Ben to go deaf in the other. He still runs away from home to make his journey to NYC. Through the illustrations we see Rose also run to NYC and both end up at the Museum of Natural History. The parallel stories will eventually intertwine, revealing a heartwarming ending that satisfied. Writing was great, illustrations were superb, worth reading.
Thursday, October 4, 2012
Middle School Antics
This year I picked up a section of 7th grade speech. This is an exploratory class, so I see every 7th grade student in 6 week rotations. These grades don't count in their GPAs, but are simply to give them a taste of some electives. I wasn't completely excited to teach 7th grade as the last three year I taught English 11 (juniors) and didn't have too much desire to teach middle school; however, I was willing to give it a try.
Wow- middle school students have ENERGY! I can't imagine going through that class several times a day, once in the day leaves me exhausted. And surprisingly they are willing to try, they try doing the crazy warm ups, modeling of activities and other games I incorporate into speech. (This is something I didn't experience with high school, some tried- most complained.) Yet, what I hadn't realized when I started teaching is how much you most go over rules- everyday! I didn't know that when we discussed how an oral interp of drama means no touching and they get their scripts, I would have to again explain that no, you can't really pull her hair. I haven't confiscated this many rubber bands or projectile paper clips in my life. And, new to me, I never realized I would have to ask the boys to get their arms out of their shirts and stop pretending to be T-Rexes. (Yet, I was giggling on the inside as they did look funny). I am into the 2nd week of my 2nd rotation, and while I never planned to teach 7th grade, I must say they keep me on my toes and give me some slight invigoration.
On to the book review:
Bruiser by Neal Shusterman
This was the last of the Golden Sower nominees that I needed to read, and it ties for one of my favorites. Bruiser is told through the eyes of 4 characters: Tennyson and Bronte (twin brother and sister), Bruiser (Brewster) and Cody (Brewster's brother). Tennyson and Bronte don't sound like your average 15 year old students, but their parents are both English professors, so I can imagine that vocabulary development was important. I feel like the writing was captivating as we were able to see the scenes through the eyes of these characters and get different perspectives. Bruiser's perspective is written in verse, and you will see why when you read the book. Bronte begins dating Bruiser (whom has a bad reputation) which irks Tennyson- so he begins to follow Bruiser. Tennyson sees that Bruiser's home life is terrible and even finds out a secret about his life, even accepting Bronte and Bruiser's relationship. The book takes on an almost "Green Mile" feel (John Coffee's character) when we learn about Bruiser's amazing secret. I found that it seemed realistic to how a person might take advantage of someone if they had the power's Bruiser has, and Shusterman chronicled the ways we use and abuse those we love well.
All in all, it was a great book and would appeal to young adults and adults alike.
Wow- middle school students have ENERGY! I can't imagine going through that class several times a day, once in the day leaves me exhausted. And surprisingly they are willing to try, they try doing the crazy warm ups, modeling of activities and other games I incorporate into speech. (This is something I didn't experience with high school, some tried- most complained.) Yet, what I hadn't realized when I started teaching is how much you most go over rules- everyday! I didn't know that when we discussed how an oral interp of drama means no touching and they get their scripts, I would have to again explain that no, you can't really pull her hair. I haven't confiscated this many rubber bands or projectile paper clips in my life. And, new to me, I never realized I would have to ask the boys to get their arms out of their shirts and stop pretending to be T-Rexes. (Yet, I was giggling on the inside as they did look funny). I am into the 2nd week of my 2nd rotation, and while I never planned to teach 7th grade, I must say they keep me on my toes and give me some slight invigoration.
On to the book review:
Bruiser by Neal Shusterman
This was the last of the Golden Sower nominees that I needed to read, and it ties for one of my favorites. Bruiser is told through the eyes of 4 characters: Tennyson and Bronte (twin brother and sister), Bruiser (Brewster) and Cody (Brewster's brother). Tennyson and Bronte don't sound like your average 15 year old students, but their parents are both English professors, so I can imagine that vocabulary development was important. I feel like the writing was captivating as we were able to see the scenes through the eyes of these characters and get different perspectives. Bruiser's perspective is written in verse, and you will see why when you read the book. Bronte begins dating Bruiser (whom has a bad reputation) which irks Tennyson- so he begins to follow Bruiser. Tennyson sees that Bruiser's home life is terrible and even finds out a secret about his life, even accepting Bronte and Bruiser's relationship. The book takes on an almost "Green Mile" feel (John Coffee's character) when we learn about Bruiser's amazing secret. I found that it seemed realistic to how a person might take advantage of someone if they had the power's Bruiser has, and Shusterman chronicled the ways we use and abuse those we love well.
All in all, it was a great book and would appeal to young adults and adults alike.
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