Survival

Survival is at the center of our new book Hatchet.  Brian, the main character, must overcome incredible odds in the Canadian wilderness.  While none of us have experienced this situation, we know real stories of survival in our own lives and/or those around us.  So, who do you know that has an amazing survival story?  Do they inspire you?

Does our Chicken Soup soothe your soul?

We have read Chicken Soup for the Teenage Soul for weeks and have just completed our first writing task about it. So, does it soothe your soul, or are you more discouraged by reading it? Is it completely boring to you, or are you inspired to be the very best person you can be?

Appropriate?

Do you think a book like The Outsiders is appropriate to read in school if the plot deals with drugs, gangs, and violence?

Right or Wrong?

Do you think Anne's father was right or wrong to publish her diary? 

Hmmmmm...

The new year is here! We're enjoying new gifts and sharing stories from our holiday break.  School is back in session, and basketball tryouts will soon begin.  The Spelling Bee is right around the corner, and the DEEP Writing Program will continue in the 2nd semester.  If we're all so busy, why is it important to stop and read?  Seriously, why do you read? 

A Thanksgiving for Reading

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, please share your gratitude for someone who helped you become a reader.  Did this person make reading an exciting part of the school day or your home?  Did he or she introduce you to wonderful books?  Were you a struggling reader, and this person opened your eyes to the world of reading? 

My dad was an excellent storyteller.  He would read books to my sister and me almost every night.  I remember one particular night when he grabbed a stuffed animal.  He gave it a silly voice to accompany a character, and he jabbed it into our faces to make us giggle.  It really made the book come alive, and we asked for that stuffed animal to be apart of our nightly reading for many, many nights to come.  I perceived reading as a fun way to spend my time, and I embraced reading all sorts of books as I grew.  Thank you, Dad, for nurturing my love for reading!

Book Mission

You have a mission this month!  Ask an adult in your family about his/her favorite book.  What made the book so special?  profound?  Take the time to share your favorite book with that person as well, and report back to the blog.