Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Book Club: Catching Fire
Book club met after school to discuss Catching Fire, the sequel to Hunger Games.
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Monday, October 19, 2009
Monster: the Autobiography of an L.A. Gang Member
Monster: the Autobiography of an L.A. Gang Member, by Sanyika Shakur A.K.A Kody Scott, follows the life of an up and coming gang member, in the streets of Los Angeles. When Kody was eleven years old he was initiated into the Crips, which was just the beginning of the long journey to come in his gang life. Throughout his career in the gang, he took many lives with no remorse, thinking of it as revenge for all of the friends he lost to gang violence. Kody Scott wrote this book from inside his prison cell, wanting to share to the world the reality and viciousness of the life of a gang member.
This book was filled with action on every page, and made us wanting to keep reading more. We recommend this book for mature teen males who are interested in wanting to see the life of gangster from their point of view. The violence, drugs, and profanity throughout the book makes this story one for a more mature audience. Will Kody Scott ever realize the danger in his daily life with the Crips, and how it affects more than just himself? - Andrew, Wes, Alex, class of 2011
Fair Weather
Richard Peck has also written A Year Down Yonder and A Long Way From Chicago. The story is about a 14 year old girl named Rosie who lives with her family on a small farm in Illinois in the year 1893. They travel to Chicago to attend the worlds fair with their aunt and it is a life changing experience for them. The story follows the events that happen in chicago and ties in some interesting characters. It had a decent story line and kept the novel interesting. Rosie and her family met Buffalo Bill which was a interesting part I enjoyed. I would say its directed more for girls, because it is from a girl's perspective; however, it has a story anyone can follow and its directed towards younger teenagers. When Rosie went to Chicago, it would be like you going into outer space. The unknown makes for an exciting novel. - Matt, class of 2010
Nineteen Minutes
“In nineteen minutes, you can stop the world. In nineteen minutes, you can just jump off it. In nineteen minutes, you can get revenge.” Jodi Picoult, author of My Sister’s Keeper and The Pact, has yet again fashioned a suspenseful and intriguing novel about a school shooting in the small town of Sterling, New Hampshire.
Nineteen Minutes involves Peter Houghton, a scrawny, weak student at Sterling High, has been bullied throughout his entire life. Having to live up to the high standards his all-star brother, Joey, has set isn’t the easiest when you are not the athletic, smart, or “perfect” son. Josie Cormier, the popular daughter of the respected judge of Sterling, Alex Cormier, is spending her high school career living a fake life of perfection and morality. She has the perfect boyfriend, the best looks and in the top of her class, but she feels as if she is living the life everyone else expects the judge’s daughter to live.
The book begins with both Peter and Josie as childhood best friends. A misunderstanding between mothers pulls the children apart and they continue their separate lives until they met again at Sterling High. Peter hits his breaking point and ends up being the shooter killing nine students and a teacher. The book carries the pain and suffering of both families; the Houghton’s dealing with the guilt of what their son did, and the Cormier’s seeing that Alex would be the judge presiding over the trial of Peter Houghton.
The novel revealed a different aspect of the shooting in each chapter. Anyone and everyone should read Nineteen Minutes! High school students especially would be fascinated by how much this book makes you consider everything and everyone around you. - Taylor, class of 2010
Nineteen Minutes involves Peter Houghton, a scrawny, weak student at Sterling High, has been bullied throughout his entire life. Having to live up to the high standards his all-star brother, Joey, has set isn’t the easiest when you are not the athletic, smart, or “perfect” son. Josie Cormier, the popular daughter of the respected judge of Sterling, Alex Cormier, is spending her high school career living a fake life of perfection and morality. She has the perfect boyfriend, the best looks and in the top of her class, but she feels as if she is living the life everyone else expects the judge’s daughter to live.
The book begins with both Peter and Josie as childhood best friends. A misunderstanding between mothers pulls the children apart and they continue their separate lives until they met again at Sterling High. Peter hits his breaking point and ends up being the shooter killing nine students and a teacher. The book carries the pain and suffering of both families; the Houghton’s dealing with the guilt of what their son did, and the Cormier’s seeing that Alex would be the judge presiding over the trial of Peter Houghton.
The novel revealed a different aspect of the shooting in each chapter. Anyone and everyone should read Nineteen Minutes! High school students especially would be fascinated by how much this book makes you consider everything and everyone around you. - Taylor, class of 2010
Race by Marc Aronson
The author of Race, Marc Aronson, believes that young people, especially pre-teens and teenagers, are smart, passionate, and capable of engaging with interesting ideas in interesting ways. His mission is to inspire young people to ask questions, to look around, behind, inside of the stories the world tells us - whether that means being a detective, examining the clues history has left behind, or a reporter, telling the truth about the modern world.
Race is a non-fiction book that tries to tackle numerous questions we as young students tend to ask, for example; Where did my feelings of racism come from? Why are they so powerful? Why have millions been enslaved, murdered, denied their rights because of the color of their skin, the shape of their eyes? - these questions and many more may be puzzling to some young adults like myself and my peers, and Aronson traces the history of racial prejudice in Western culture back to ancient Sumer and beyond to provide insight to an answer or answers.
It started off as mainly a boring read, like any other book filled with history and facts, but it definitely contained factual information that I never knew, like the "scientific" studies done hundreds of years ago that somehow "proved" one race was inferior to another. Anyone who enjoys a timeline of history and the growth of civilization will enjoy this book. It contains extraordinary and sometimes shocking information that really will get you asking, do I believe in this? Have I been taught to believe this? Read for youself to find out! I would give this book 6 out of 10 stars, only because I'm not much of a history bust! Give it a try and let me know what you think. - Alex, class of 2010
Race is a non-fiction book that tries to tackle numerous questions we as young students tend to ask, for example; Where did my feelings of racism come from? Why are they so powerful? Why have millions been enslaved, murdered, denied their rights because of the color of their skin, the shape of their eyes? - these questions and many more may be puzzling to some young adults like myself and my peers, and Aronson traces the history of racial prejudice in Western culture back to ancient Sumer and beyond to provide insight to an answer or answers.
It started off as mainly a boring read, like any other book filled with history and facts, but it definitely contained factual information that I never knew, like the "scientific" studies done hundreds of years ago that somehow "proved" one race was inferior to another. Anyone who enjoys a timeline of history and the growth of civilization will enjoy this book. It contains extraordinary and sometimes shocking information that really will get you asking, do I believe in this? Have I been taught to believe this? Read for youself to find out! I would give this book 6 out of 10 stars, only because I'm not much of a history bust! Give it a try and let me know what you think. - Alex, class of 2010
New Spring: Wheel of Time Prequel
New Spring is Robert Jordan’s Prequel to the epic fantasy series known as The Wheel of Time. While unaware of the rest of the series, the book still does what it can to ease novices into the long and arduous story of a war. War for Earth. The book starts of the reader with vague knowledge of an ongoing war between the Malkiere and the Aens. Two characters, Lan and Bukama, are just about ready to go into battle, But the enemy walks away. Confused, they head of in another direction. Meanwhile, two new characters are met up at a school of magic known as the White Tower. They are the accepted known as Moraine Damodred and Suian Sanche. They witness a foretelling of an imminent power know as the Dark One’s rising and of the birth of the dragon reborn, the only man who could stop him. In desperate attempt to help they try their best to escape the obligations of the tower and the watchful eyes of the maleficent black Ajah to find the boy and save the world from doom. Adventure begins.
While it is a part of a series, the book itself has its highs and lows. Character descriptions run dry as twenty six characters are introduced and half are nearly forgotten or dead. But the book does a remarkable job of setting up a world with the vast space for an imaginary history to unfurl itself into. Invented cultural quirks like Des D’ amour are really something appreciable and bring a strong character to the book. Speaking of, the characters aren’t that bad themselves; the two leads, Lan and Moraine, provide a contrast between male and female dominance, and bring about a minute satire on the subject.
The only real problem is knowing how many hours you’ll need to put in to see it through to the end, but even then, I eagerly await what happens next in the series, so it must be doing its job. - Solaman, class of 2010
While it is a part of a series, the book itself has its highs and lows. Character descriptions run dry as twenty six characters are introduced and half are nearly forgotten or dead. But the book does a remarkable job of setting up a world with the vast space for an imaginary history to unfurl itself into. Invented cultural quirks like Des D’ amour are really something appreciable and bring a strong character to the book. Speaking of, the characters aren’t that bad themselves; the two leads, Lan and Moraine, provide a contrast between male and female dominance, and bring about a minute satire on the subject.
The only real problem is knowing how many hours you’ll need to put in to see it through to the end, but even then, I eagerly await what happens next in the series, so it must be doing its job. - Solaman, class of 2010
Lolita
Lolita acts as one of the most infamous and controversial literary works of the 20th century; due to its racy subject matter. The story, told by middle aged ‘Humbert Humbert,’ describes his obsession and ultimate sexual relations with a 12 year old girl named Dolores Haze, aka ‘Lolita.’
Humbert’s story begins with his narrative of the premature death of his first love, Annabel. His failure to consummate their love stunts his sexual growth, and leads to an undying obsession for ‘nymphets,’ or particularly seductive adolescents. As an adult, after years of suppressing his sexual desires, Humbert moves to the Unite States and rents a room in the house of a widow named Charlotte Haze. Humbert immediately becomes infatuated with Charlotte’s daughter, Lolita, and when the latter is sent off to summer camp Humbert marries Charlotte, (though he finds her particularly detestable) in order to remain in close proximity with Lolita upon her return. When Charlotte stumbles across Humbert's personal journal and learns of his true feelings about her daughter she is infuriated.
One unique aspect of Vladimir Nabokov’s Lolita is his use of language. His words are especially effective in manipulating the reader’s interpretation, and his descriptions are so elegant that they add an element of beauty to the story that may not be completely warranted. Lolita is a very challenging read, and requires a great deal of concentration. If you are willing to devote considerable effort to interpreting the novel you will surely be rewarded; however, be aware it will demand a high level of attention. - Kelsey, class of 2010
Humbert’s story begins with his narrative of the premature death of his first love, Annabel. His failure to consummate their love stunts his sexual growth, and leads to an undying obsession for ‘nymphets,’ or particularly seductive adolescents. As an adult, after years of suppressing his sexual desires, Humbert moves to the Unite States and rents a room in the house of a widow named Charlotte Haze. Humbert immediately becomes infatuated with Charlotte’s daughter, Lolita, and when the latter is sent off to summer camp Humbert marries Charlotte, (though he finds her particularly detestable) in order to remain in close proximity with Lolita upon her return. When Charlotte stumbles across Humbert's personal journal and learns of his true feelings about her daughter she is infuriated.
One unique aspect of Vladimir Nabokov’s Lolita is his use of language. His words are especially effective in manipulating the reader’s interpretation, and his descriptions are so elegant that they add an element of beauty to the story that may not be completely warranted. Lolita is a very challenging read, and requires a great deal of concentration. If you are willing to devote considerable effort to interpreting the novel you will surely be rewarded; however, be aware it will demand a high level of attention. - Kelsey, class of 2010
Fight Club
A teenage male growing up in the 2000’s would find it near impossible to go through their high school life and not see the Fight Club movie. It seems to almost have become a rite of passage; one must watch Brad Pitt beat people into pulp with his bare hands in order to be considered grown-up. There is no question; the movie version of Fight Club has become a cultural icon. But were did it come from?
The twisted tale of Tyler Durden, Project Mayhem, and the elusive Fight Club came from the talented mind of Chuck Palanhuik. If you have seen the movie, you are aware of the films innovative style of short chopped up scenes and a stream of audible thoughts from the narrator. The book follows the same pattern (or rather the movie followed the book’s pattern). It is told in a random and compelling fashion that mimics the narrator’s broken reality. He suffers from massive insomnia, and helps himself by attending coping groups and pretending to have a terminal illness. He takes the emotional outlet from these places and uses it as his own way of escape. This sick practice leads him to Marla Singer, a very strange character who floats in and out of the story, and offers an interesting look into how the author feels about love.
This is by no means a love story however. The narrator meets Tyler Durden and the two men found an underground boxing club, dubbed Fight Club. They almost immediately conjure up countless participants and new Fight Clubs around the area. The narrator begins slipping into Durden’s twisted philosophy, which leads him to further lose touch with the normal, civilized world. Durden always talks to the narrator about a primitive utopia, were civilization does not control the lives of its inhabitants, which is what Durden thinks the current world does.
These Fight Clubs eventually lead to Project Mayhem, a gang made up of Fight Club members bent on wreaking havoc on society. As things get more and more serious within Durden’s project mayhem, the narrator begins to change, and starts to question Durden’s authority. This leads to several shocking plot twists and a impactful ending. The book is not just a fictional tale made for entertainment. It is a biting satire, which comments on the oppressive nature of modern society, and the built-up primitive nature within the human race, particularly males. It is a novel that will live on as a work that symbolized an aspect of our society; with or without Brad Pitt’s help. - Jimmy, class of 2010
The twisted tale of Tyler Durden, Project Mayhem, and the elusive Fight Club came from the talented mind of Chuck Palanhuik. If you have seen the movie, you are aware of the films innovative style of short chopped up scenes and a stream of audible thoughts from the narrator. The book follows the same pattern (or rather the movie followed the book’s pattern). It is told in a random and compelling fashion that mimics the narrator’s broken reality. He suffers from massive insomnia, and helps himself by attending coping groups and pretending to have a terminal illness. He takes the emotional outlet from these places and uses it as his own way of escape. This sick practice leads him to Marla Singer, a very strange character who floats in and out of the story, and offers an interesting look into how the author feels about love.
This is by no means a love story however. The narrator meets Tyler Durden and the two men found an underground boxing club, dubbed Fight Club. They almost immediately conjure up countless participants and new Fight Clubs around the area. The narrator begins slipping into Durden’s twisted philosophy, which leads him to further lose touch with the normal, civilized world. Durden always talks to the narrator about a primitive utopia, were civilization does not control the lives of its inhabitants, which is what Durden thinks the current world does.
These Fight Clubs eventually lead to Project Mayhem, a gang made up of Fight Club members bent on wreaking havoc on society. As things get more and more serious within Durden’s project mayhem, the narrator begins to change, and starts to question Durden’s authority. This leads to several shocking plot twists and a impactful ending. The book is not just a fictional tale made for entertainment. It is a biting satire, which comments on the oppressive nature of modern society, and the built-up primitive nature within the human race, particularly males. It is a novel that will live on as a work that symbolized an aspect of our society; with or without Brad Pitt’s help. - Jimmy, class of 2010
The Tipping Point
Malcolm Gladwell is a psychologist turned author who has written three books: The Tipping Point, Blink, and Outliers. Each book is not a novel but more or less a very lengthy essay. Each book builds off the previous one, but aren't exactly related; each book is written in the same style but are on different topics of the psychology world.
The Tipping Point is described as "that magic moment when an idea, trend, or social behavior crosses a threshold, tips, and spreads like wildfire". Basically, Gladwell argues that certain ideas, trend, and/or social behaviors of the past have had tipping points where they went from unknown to everyday life in a short period of time.
Although there are several topics Gladwell explains, like Sesame Street and Blue's Clues, Paul Revere's ride, and crime in New York City, the main topic is about the shoes known as Hush Puppies. Hush Puppies were popular shoes in the early '90s and fell from popularity by the mid '90s. Perhaps as a fashion statement, some teenagers from a rich neighborhood in New York City began wearing the Hush Puppies again. A fashion worker in charge of Fashion Week in the city saw the kids wearing the shoes and fell in love. He made every model wear Hush Puppies on the catwalk. Soon after, Hush Puppies sales were through the roof. The tipping point was the fashion expert seeing the kids wearing the shoes.
Gladwell goes on to describe the other topics and also how we can spot, start, and control trends in order to get them to spread. I kept reading because I learned some new and very fascinating things in each chapter. I also find the topics of psychology and sociology interesting and it's just interesting to see how simple or obscure ideas can turn into sensations while seemingly brilliant ideas are turned down. Anyone interested in psychology or human behavior or just in learning really fascinating things should read this book, but really anyone can read this book and enjoy it.
Another topic discussed in the book was the story of a woman who was murdered on the street of her New York City neighborhood while 38 neighbors watched. You may think you know about the historical topics discussed in the book or how people might react to such a situation. Before reading, how many of the 38 do you think reported the crime? Like every other topic in the book, you might be surprised by the answer. - Troy, class of 2010
The Tipping Point is described as "that magic moment when an idea, trend, or social behavior crosses a threshold, tips, and spreads like wildfire". Basically, Gladwell argues that certain ideas, trend, and/or social behaviors of the past have had tipping points where they went from unknown to everyday life in a short period of time.
Although there are several topics Gladwell explains, like Sesame Street and Blue's Clues, Paul Revere's ride, and crime in New York City, the main topic is about the shoes known as Hush Puppies. Hush Puppies were popular shoes in the early '90s and fell from popularity by the mid '90s. Perhaps as a fashion statement, some teenagers from a rich neighborhood in New York City began wearing the Hush Puppies again. A fashion worker in charge of Fashion Week in the city saw the kids wearing the shoes and fell in love. He made every model wear Hush Puppies on the catwalk. Soon after, Hush Puppies sales were through the roof. The tipping point was the fashion expert seeing the kids wearing the shoes.
Gladwell goes on to describe the other topics and also how we can spot, start, and control trends in order to get them to spread. I kept reading because I learned some new and very fascinating things in each chapter. I also find the topics of psychology and sociology interesting and it's just interesting to see how simple or obscure ideas can turn into sensations while seemingly brilliant ideas are turned down. Anyone interested in psychology or human behavior or just in learning really fascinating things should read this book, but really anyone can read this book and enjoy it.
Another topic discussed in the book was the story of a woman who was murdered on the street of her New York City neighborhood while 38 neighbors watched. You may think you know about the historical topics discussed in the book or how people might react to such a situation. Before reading, how many of the 38 do you think reported the crime? Like every other topic in the book, you might be surprised by the answer. - Troy, class of 2010
Million Little Pieces
Twenty-three year old James Frey wakes up one day on a plane with a hole in his cheek, several of his teeth missing, and no memory of how he got there. He is an alcoholic and crack addict, and as he sees it, his only options are to go to rehab and stop his addictions or die. James decides to check into the country’s best rehab center in Minnesota. There he faces numerous obstacles on the path to sobriety.
Not only does he undergo severe withdrawal and has difficulty finding a path that works for him, but also he is forced to confront the emotional issues that were previously suppressed by all of his substance abuse. Throughout the course of his stay in rehab, he meets many interesting people in the same situation he is. Although he rejects any relationships at first, he slowly begins to grow closer to those around him, especially a female patient named Julia. However, interactions between male and female patients are strictly forbidden. James fails to let this regulation get in the way of his relationship, and he and Julia secretly meet. The budding bond between these lovers lead to events that add twists and turns to their road towards sobriety and tests their commitment to their goal and each other.
This intriguing story along with the creative style in which James Frey writes, gives reader a whole new perspective on the life of an addict and the flood of emotions, questions, and instability that accompany it; his style of writing allows the reader to really get inside and dissect his mind. However, the heavy content in this book makes this novel most suitable for older readers. All of James’s detailed descriptions and flashbacks, although intense at times, emphasized the severity of his situation and heightened my curiosity about whether or not he would achieve his goal. It would definitely be worthwhile to pick up this book. - Carly, class of 2010
Not only does he undergo severe withdrawal and has difficulty finding a path that works for him, but also he is forced to confront the emotional issues that were previously suppressed by all of his substance abuse. Throughout the course of his stay in rehab, he meets many interesting people in the same situation he is. Although he rejects any relationships at first, he slowly begins to grow closer to those around him, especially a female patient named Julia. However, interactions between male and female patients are strictly forbidden. James fails to let this regulation get in the way of his relationship, and he and Julia secretly meet. The budding bond between these lovers lead to events that add twists and turns to their road towards sobriety and tests their commitment to their goal and each other.
This intriguing story along with the creative style in which James Frey writes, gives reader a whole new perspective on the life of an addict and the flood of emotions, questions, and instability that accompany it; his style of writing allows the reader to really get inside and dissect his mind. However, the heavy content in this book makes this novel most suitable for older readers. All of James’s detailed descriptions and flashbacks, although intense at times, emphasized the severity of his situation and heightened my curiosity about whether or not he would achieve his goal. It would definitely be worthwhile to pick up this book. - Carly, class of 2010
The Great Gatsby
The Great Gatsby follows the young Nick Carraway as he describes a summer in the 1920’s that he spent in New York. It centers on his relationship with his cousin, Daisy, her husband, Tom, Tom’s mistress Myrtle, and how he gets drawn into the middle of Daisy’s affair with his neighbor, the extremely wealthy and charming Jay Gatsby.
Though many times his book seems like a bore and very confusing with all the complicated relationships, Fitzgerald’s tries to create 1920 Long Island a very specific and tragic area. Early on in the novel, Nick earns the reader’s trust, and as the other characters become less honest and it becomes clear that very little they say or do is genuine, the reader can only sympathize with Nick when he begins to despise those around him.
Although this book had some interesting plot situations, I personally wouldn’t recommend it for a leisurely read, because of its strange and complex relationships between characters, and the inability to relate with the characters. - Lauren, class of 2010
Though many times his book seems like a bore and very confusing with all the complicated relationships, Fitzgerald’s tries to create 1920 Long Island a very specific and tragic area. Early on in the novel, Nick earns the reader’s trust, and as the other characters become less honest and it becomes clear that very little they say or do is genuine, the reader can only sympathize with Nick when he begins to despise those around him.
Although this book had some interesting plot situations, I personally wouldn’t recommend it for a leisurely read, because of its strange and complex relationships between characters, and the inability to relate with the characters. - Lauren, class of 2010
Everything Bad Is Good For You
Everything Bad Is Good for You is a very interesting book. It took me a while to get into it, though. Yet, once I did, Steven Johnson put up a good argument on how our popular culture is actually making us smarter.
He does this by examining and trying to prove that video games, television, and the internet, are exercising our minds and making us more intelligent. Sometimes this book is hard to relate to; it was for me when he was talking about video games, because I am not much of a “gamer”. Steven Johnson’s argument was very interesting and it can open your mind to a different view on our popular culture.
My main critique would be that he didn’t support his argument with enough scientific evidence; he mainly supported it with ideas. Another aspect I didn’t like was that he kept restating facts that were previously discussed. All in all, it is an easy read and I recommend it for young adults or adults who want to learn about and open their mind to a new stance on our popular culture’s effect on us. - Rachel, class of 2010
He does this by examining and trying to prove that video games, television, and the internet, are exercising our minds and making us more intelligent. Sometimes this book is hard to relate to; it was for me when he was talking about video games, because I am not much of a “gamer”. Steven Johnson’s argument was very interesting and it can open your mind to a different view on our popular culture.
My main critique would be that he didn’t support his argument with enough scientific evidence; he mainly supported it with ideas. Another aspect I didn’t like was that he kept restating facts that were previously discussed. All in all, it is an easy read and I recommend it for young adults or adults who want to learn about and open their mind to a new stance on our popular culture’s effect on us. - Rachel, class of 2010
The Lovely Bones
This book is the Story of Susie Salmon’s life, death, mystery, and everyone affected by it. As a 14 year old girl, Susie was brutally raped and murdered by a twisted and suspicious neighborhood man in a cornfield near her house. This would normally be the climatic event of a book, but this is where Susie’s story starts.
She is forced to deal with her death, her run away murderer, the agony of her family and friends, and a new heaven which she is to call home and watch over everyone still on earth from. The book tells all the stories of the people in Susie’s life deeply affected by her murder and the struggles they go through.
I’d recommend this book for a teenage girl on account of it is drama filled and a bit of a tear jerker. I enjoyed Sebold’s style of writing and she definitely did not hold anything back. Some scenes, as gruesome and upsetting as they might be, really brought a sense of power to the book that connected you to Susie and made you feel the same pain as her or the other characters.
All of the characters were great and each one brought a little piece of the book together, but I felt the one down fall to this book was the amount of characters. There were so many different people connected to Susie and her death that it was often hard to keep up with their connections and keep them all straight. Other than a few too many side plots with multiple characters, The Lovely Bones is an extremely well written novel. - Anna, class of 2010
She is forced to deal with her death, her run away murderer, the agony of her family and friends, and a new heaven which she is to call home and watch over everyone still on earth from. The book tells all the stories of the people in Susie’s life deeply affected by her murder and the struggles they go through.
I’d recommend this book for a teenage girl on account of it is drama filled and a bit of a tear jerker. I enjoyed Sebold’s style of writing and she definitely did not hold anything back. Some scenes, as gruesome and upsetting as they might be, really brought a sense of power to the book that connected you to Susie and made you feel the same pain as her or the other characters.
All of the characters were great and each one brought a little piece of the book together, but I felt the one down fall to this book was the amount of characters. There were so many different people connected to Susie and her death that it was often hard to keep up with their connections and keep them all straight. Other than a few too many side plots with multiple characters, The Lovely Bones is an extremely well written novel. - Anna, class of 2010
The Things They Carried
I read The Things They Carried by Tim O’Brien for Gimm’s World Literature class. Tim O’Brien is a veteran of the Vietnam War and has many stories to tell. This book is not your normal read however. It is a collection of many different short stories that vary from 2 pages to 25 pages rather than a long novel or story. These stories are broken up into chapters and tell of different events of O’Brien’s life before during and after the war. The way that this book is written makes it a very good read and its feeling very intense.
O’Brien makes you feel like you are part of the book. He gives such good detail that you can feel his emotions and his pain. The book is called The Things They Carried because it talks about both the literal things that O’Brien and his friends carried and the memories and stories that they have carried for years. They carried little things that helped them get by, such as rabbit’s feet, bibles, pictures to remember families, letters, lucky rocks, and everything else in between. They carried helmets, weapons, and grenades. They carried many things that helped them to get by or just to pass the time and forget about the war.
However, most of the stories talk about the memories that they carry. O’Brian talks about different events that happened, such as when a friend died or how he came into the war. Many stories had a lot of emotion and were in great detail. I really liked this book a lot and would give it 10 out of 10. This is a great book for people that enjoy short stories or like books to be broken up. Because of the way that it is written, it is a very easy read and very enjoyable. I would recommend this book to someone who asked. - Danny, class of 2010
O’Brien makes you feel like you are part of the book. He gives such good detail that you can feel his emotions and his pain. The book is called The Things They Carried because it talks about both the literal things that O’Brien and his friends carried and the memories and stories that they have carried for years. They carried little things that helped them get by, such as rabbit’s feet, bibles, pictures to remember families, letters, lucky rocks, and everything else in between. They carried helmets, weapons, and grenades. They carried many things that helped them to get by or just to pass the time and forget about the war.
However, most of the stories talk about the memories that they carry. O’Brian talks about different events that happened, such as when a friend died or how he came into the war. Many stories had a lot of emotion and were in great detail. I really liked this book a lot and would give it 10 out of 10. This is a great book for people that enjoy short stories or like books to be broken up. Because of the way that it is written, it is a very easy read and very enjoyable. I would recommend this book to someone who asked. - Danny, class of 2010
Johnny Got His Gun
Dalton Trumbo was a member of the communist party from 1943 to 1948 who was blacklisted in California during the Red Scare and driven out of the States; so it’s not overly surprising after reading this fact in the foreword that his book contains a strong anti-war sentiments.
Johnny Got His Gun is the story of Joe Bonham, an American draftee who fought the war because he was told to, leaving behind his family and the girl he loves to fight a war for reasons that he neither sees nor feels. The story begins with Joe lying in a hospital bed slowly realizing that he has lost his arms, legs, eyes, ears, nose, and mouth. Obviously it is not a happy tale.
It’s written in a stream of thought, with run on sentences, fragments, and not a single comma. The thoughts are unrestricted, and often times they change before the reader is ready to let them go. The book itself is an easy read, the subject is the toughest I have read yet. Best advice: read a chapter a day about an hour before bed, and think about what he’s experiencing in his quest to understand the world around him, to cope with his situation, to communicate with the outside world, and to consider how you, the reader, would manage in his situation.
Joe’s character is in constant states of frustration, anger, regret, denial, and utter helplessness. He recognizes early on that he is only a mind, no other part of him has survived; and so he dedicates his time to thought. The beauty of the story is that more than half the book is told without the author conveying emotion, yet there are sparks of such great pain sporadically throughout that a reader cannot help but despise the situation. All that I, as a reader, hoped for was his death (and only because I hated to read of his pain); just as all he hoped for was freedom from a hospital bed – neither of us got what we’d wished for.
It’s a brilliantly moving story, that makes readers question their own choices and beliefs. It’s definitely a worthy read. The only downside is for a punctuation fiend such as myself, because it is difficult to grow accustomed to the style. - Genevieve, class of 2010
Johnny Got His Gun is the story of Joe Bonham, an American draftee who fought the war because he was told to, leaving behind his family and the girl he loves to fight a war for reasons that he neither sees nor feels. The story begins with Joe lying in a hospital bed slowly realizing that he has lost his arms, legs, eyes, ears, nose, and mouth. Obviously it is not a happy tale.
It’s written in a stream of thought, with run on sentences, fragments, and not a single comma. The thoughts are unrestricted, and often times they change before the reader is ready to let them go. The book itself is an easy read, the subject is the toughest I have read yet. Best advice: read a chapter a day about an hour before bed, and think about what he’s experiencing in his quest to understand the world around him, to cope with his situation, to communicate with the outside world, and to consider how you, the reader, would manage in his situation.
Joe’s character is in constant states of frustration, anger, regret, denial, and utter helplessness. He recognizes early on that he is only a mind, no other part of him has survived; and so he dedicates his time to thought. The beauty of the story is that more than half the book is told without the author conveying emotion, yet there are sparks of such great pain sporadically throughout that a reader cannot help but despise the situation. All that I, as a reader, hoped for was his death (and only because I hated to read of his pain); just as all he hoped for was freedom from a hospital bed – neither of us got what we’d wished for.
It’s a brilliantly moving story, that makes readers question their own choices and beliefs. It’s definitely a worthy read. The only downside is for a punctuation fiend such as myself, because it is difficult to grow accustomed to the style. - Genevieve, class of 2010
When the Wind Blows
This book takes place in the mountains of Colorado. A bunch of rogue scientists have set up a lab where they experiment on humans to attempt to carry on evolution at a faster rate than naturally possible. One of their experiments escapes and the scientists have to recapture her to avoid detection. This is the story of the girl-experiment, Frannie O'Neill, a local vet, and Kit Harrison, an undercover FBI agent.
The biggest issue with this book was the over exaggerated explanation of feelings between Kit and Frannie. From the first time they meet each other, you could tell they were going to have some overly dramatic relationship by how they were already physically attracted to one another. It ended up being an obnoxious undertone whenever they met up with one another, and their characters were highly two dimensional. I could not get any attachment to any of them.
The overall idea of the story was ok, being that it was dealing with the newer, controversial genetics experiments, but it was highly one sided, and the scientists were made out to be monstrous murderers rather than sensible and careful. Patterson also made a few poor choices in writing style, especially in regards to suspense. At one point in time, Mathew, Max's brother, was shot and leaves off the chapter with perfect opportunity for a cliff hanger to keep the readers involved, but instead, he gives closure the first line of the next chapter. I almost stopped reading there because of how frustrated I was with his writing, but I was too far along to stop. The ending was ok. - Neil, class of 2010
The biggest issue with this book was the over exaggerated explanation of feelings between Kit and Frannie. From the first time they meet each other, you could tell they were going to have some overly dramatic relationship by how they were already physically attracted to one another. It ended up being an obnoxious undertone whenever they met up with one another, and their characters were highly two dimensional. I could not get any attachment to any of them.
The overall idea of the story was ok, being that it was dealing with the newer, controversial genetics experiments, but it was highly one sided, and the scientists were made out to be monstrous murderers rather than sensible and careful. Patterson also made a few poor choices in writing style, especially in regards to suspense. At one point in time, Mathew, Max's brother, was shot and leaves off the chapter with perfect opportunity for a cliff hanger to keep the readers involved, but instead, he gives closure the first line of the next chapter. I almost stopped reading there because of how frustrated I was with his writing, but I was too far along to stop. The ending was ok. - Neil, class of 2010
Call of the Wild
Jack London’s Call of the Wild is a story following a dog named Buck through his adaptation to the Alaskan wilderness. The story begins with him living on the large, elegant property of Judge Miller in California, living a lavish lifestyle with no hardship. However, one of the workers at the mansion sells him one day in order to continue his gambling habit. The man who buys Buck transports him to Alaska, and on the way, Buck is severely beaten by a man with a club in order to imbue in him a submissive mentality. This provides a stark contrast to Buck’s previous life, and Buck is forced to quickly learn that things are much more difficult in the northern reaches, that power is awarded to the strongest, and that it is every animal for himself.
This book provides great insight on the struggles and hardships sled dogs face, as well as the cruelty and unfairness of the wild and the difficult process of adapting to it after a privileged lifestyle. I was able to relate to the book quite well, since I was often able to place myself into Buck’s situation, wondering if I myself could survive numerous beatings and seemingly endless labor under terrible conditions. As a dog owner, I was forced to sympathize for the dogs, because I could not imagine my own dogs going through what they did. While it provided a lot of insight and was a gripping read all the way through, I couldn’t help but wonder at times what the book was getting at, since there was no definite plot, and was actually just a summary of events. Overall, an excellent book and I would recommend it to anyone.- Michael, class of 2010
This book provides great insight on the struggles and hardships sled dogs face, as well as the cruelty and unfairness of the wild and the difficult process of adapting to it after a privileged lifestyle. I was able to relate to the book quite well, since I was often able to place myself into Buck’s situation, wondering if I myself could survive numerous beatings and seemingly endless labor under terrible conditions. As a dog owner, I was forced to sympathize for the dogs, because I could not imagine my own dogs going through what they did. While it provided a lot of insight and was a gripping read all the way through, I couldn’t help but wonder at times what the book was getting at, since there was no definite plot, and was actually just a summary of events. Overall, an excellent book and I would recommend it to anyone.- Michael, class of 2010
Illusions, The Adventures of a Reluctant Messiah
Richard Bach's novel is an adventure of 2 pilots who meet in a field in Midwest America. Donald Shimoda is a retired messiah. He quit because the people he helped valued the miracles he made opposed to the messages behind them. Richard and Donald take on a student mentor relationship discussing illusions that make up reality. While flying throughout the Midwest, Donald shows Richard that what people see are illusions, and how people are free to believe what they want because anything can exist.
The deep life lessons that are in the novel make the book phenomenal. Anyone should read it because this novel may give the reader a different perspective on life. The lessons in this book are not just for a specific audience; anyone can enjoy them or adhere to them. - Chris, class of 2010
The deep life lessons that are in the novel make the book phenomenal. Anyone should read it because this novel may give the reader a different perspective on life. The lessons in this book are not just for a specific audience; anyone can enjoy them or adhere to them. - Chris, class of 2010
The Memory Keeper's Daughter
Dr. David Henry is to deliver his twins. The first born, a boy, is seemingly healthy, but the second born, a girl, is immediatly recognized to have a disease. David is left with one decision that will play a huge part in his family's bond. He asks his nurse, Caroline, to take the little girl away from him. Instead the nurse finds it difficult to give the baby up to an institute and she runs away with the child. This book answers the question as to how much a loving family can actually go through.
This book caught my attention from the very first word to the very last period. It captured each and every one of my emotions from time to time again, and it really does prove how much pain love can withstand. It tested the true bond in the Henry family and tested just as well the marriage between Henry and his wife, Norah. Although, unfortunately, I believe this book is aimed towards females. Out of 35 memories I would rate this book a 33. - Brittany, class of 2010
This book caught my attention from the very first word to the very last period. It captured each and every one of my emotions from time to time again, and it really does prove how much pain love can withstand. It tested the true bond in the Henry family and tested just as well the marriage between Henry and his wife, Norah. Although, unfortunately, I believe this book is aimed towards females. Out of 35 memories I would rate this book a 33. - Brittany, class of 2010
The Book Thief
The Book Thief begins in 1939, in the life of Liesel Meminger, along with her mother and her brother Werner. It is set in Germany, just before World War II erupts. It is planned that Liesel and her brother Werner were to be adopted by foster parents Mr. and Mrs. Hubermann, but while on the journey to get to them, something devastating occurs. It was then when Liesel found and stole her first book, The Gravedigger’s Handbook.
From then on she endures shock and pain that she could never imagine which is already added to the depression she has from the separation of her real parents. Living in Germany and being German, one can only assume that living in the heart of Nazi Germany wouldn’t be so bad. But for Liesel Meminger, Nazis are the last people she would be looking up to.
The one thing that really kept me reading was the fact that is was narrated by death, which was very interesting. Death was obviously something that overlooked everyone, so there were always details and explanations. Also, here and there, death would give little hints and riddles which were important to the story. Death also foreshadowed many things in the book, which was nice to know that it was going to be a key part of the book later.
The other big thing that I really liked about this book was that it was about a little girl in Nazi Germany, along with her foster parents who also didn’t exactly appreciate Hitler. So essentially, it was the view point from the other size of some Germans. I would really recommend this book to everyone! I think it is a great book that is a lot different just because of the two things I just talked about above. It might be a little easier to understand for people who are older and have knowledge of the times of World War II, but I think even with little knowledge you can appreciate it. Will you find out what two main events drastically changed Liesel Meminger’s life during World War II? - Kimberly, class of 2010
From then on she endures shock and pain that she could never imagine which is already added to the depression she has from the separation of her real parents. Living in Germany and being German, one can only assume that living in the heart of Nazi Germany wouldn’t be so bad. But for Liesel Meminger, Nazis are the last people she would be looking up to.
The one thing that really kept me reading was the fact that is was narrated by death, which was very interesting. Death was obviously something that overlooked everyone, so there were always details and explanations. Also, here and there, death would give little hints and riddles which were important to the story. Death also foreshadowed many things in the book, which was nice to know that it was going to be a key part of the book later.
The other big thing that I really liked about this book was that it was about a little girl in Nazi Germany, along with her foster parents who also didn’t exactly appreciate Hitler. So essentially, it was the view point from the other size of some Germans. I would really recommend this book to everyone! I think it is a great book that is a lot different just because of the two things I just talked about above. It might be a little easier to understand for people who are older and have knowledge of the times of World War II, but I think even with little knowledge you can appreciate it. Will you find out what two main events drastically changed Liesel Meminger’s life during World War II? - Kimberly, class of 2010
The Picture of Dorian Gray
The Picture of Dorian Gray has a very complex story line. An artist, Basil Hallward, paints a portrait of a young man named Dorian Gray from whom he pulls all his inspiration. A friend of Basil's named Lord Henry Wotton sits and speaks with Dorian about many things including what is most important in life, beauty. Dorian realizes this and out loud expresses his jealousy of the painting for not aging while he will become wrinkled and old and how he wishes that it were reversed.
As the book progresses his wishes become reality and anything negative that Dorian does is reflected in the portrait. It then becomes both a curse as well as a gift and soon Dorian becomes uninterested in things that do not involve him. His frame of reference becomes tattered and broken.
I would recommend this book to anyone who is willing to dissect large blocks of philosophical text and can appreciate art. What would immortality do to you? What could convince you to forsake your morality and compassion? If yes, what would you do it the cause was only yourself? - Chris, class of 2010
As the book progresses his wishes become reality and anything negative that Dorian does is reflected in the portrait. It then becomes both a curse as well as a gift and soon Dorian becomes uninterested in things that do not involve him. His frame of reference becomes tattered and broken.
I would recommend this book to anyone who is willing to dissect large blocks of philosophical text and can appreciate art. What would immortality do to you? What could convince you to forsake your morality and compassion? If yes, what would you do it the cause was only yourself? - Chris, class of 2010
Brave New World
Aldous Huxley was one of the most prominent and influential writers of his time, often considered to be one of the leaders in intellectual and progressive thought. Although Brave New World was by far his most popular work, he is also known for his extensive range of essays and short stories.
Brave New World tells the story of life in a “utopian” future where human are manufactured in a factory and predestined to fit into a social class through the use of prenatal supplements or deterrents and hypnopaeda. Because of this new creation process, the whole idea of mothers and fathers becomes taboo and is considered obscene and inappropriate to even mention. This mindset soon extends to all relationships, where the people in this new world are encouraged to have multiple partners and looked down upon if they stay with the same person for more than a few weeks.
This book was a great satire on a utopia where our desires and advances have been taken to extremes in their modern world. The different layers of symbolism and the nuances of an entirely different society give this book an incredible amount of depth and intensity that never fade throughout the book. The contrast between the new and old worlds especially shows the impact of the choices of a culture that strives for things to be quicker, easier and more advanced. The satire and irony were both often entertaining and intriguing and makes this a good book for anyone looking for a speculative and intellectual read. - Molly, class of 2010
Brave New World tells the story of life in a “utopian” future where human are manufactured in a factory and predestined to fit into a social class through the use of prenatal supplements or deterrents and hypnopaeda. Because of this new creation process, the whole idea of mothers and fathers becomes taboo and is considered obscene and inappropriate to even mention. This mindset soon extends to all relationships, where the people in this new world are encouraged to have multiple partners and looked down upon if they stay with the same person for more than a few weeks.
This book was a great satire on a utopia where our desires and advances have been taken to extremes in their modern world. The different layers of symbolism and the nuances of an entirely different society give this book an incredible amount of depth and intensity that never fade throughout the book. The contrast between the new and old worlds especially shows the impact of the choices of a culture that strives for things to be quicker, easier and more advanced. The satire and irony were both often entertaining and intriguing and makes this a good book for anyone looking for a speculative and intellectual read. - Molly, class of 2010
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
The Trial by Franz Kafka
I read The Trial by Franz Kafka for first quarter independent reading in Mr. Gimm’s World Literature class. The main character, Joseph K., reminded me very much of the father from the play Death to a Salesman. Both of these men have a definite arrogant attitude as first shown in the line, “[K] was annoyed that [K] had not been given more definite information about the room, these people showed a strange negligence or indifference in their treatment of [K], [K] intended to tell them so very positively and clearly.” K did this multiple times through out the novel where he made little mishaps into molehills.
Interestingly enough, the book's title (The Trial), though the main focus, was never firmly established. He wanders the whole time through the story encountering many people to help him resolve the case but he never knows what he has been accused of. I found this point quite humorous at times because everyone in the book knows that K has been arrested and yet no one knows why, but that doesn’t seem to matter. Kafka included many entertaining characters, such as K’s flamboyant uncle. K’s uncle came into the picture half way through the novel to assist K in getting a good lawyer. This character, accompanied with many exaggerated traits, doesn’t contribute much to the plot. I found the book entertaining, but I really struggled with the style in which it was written. Kafka strung many ideas into one paragraph at a time. A single paragraph could run for several pages. Dialog wasn’t broken up into separate lines either. This proved difficult to separate thoughts while reading. An aspect that I loved in his writing was how well he set the scene. At one point, K goes to visit someone whom he thinks will help him with the trial and the bizarre setting was written such that I felt like K was walking through Dr. Seuss’s Oh the Places You’ll Go. Out of 10 “trials” I would give it a 7. - Mary, class of 2010
Interestingly enough, the book's title (The Trial), though the main focus, was never firmly established. He wanders the whole time through the story encountering many people to help him resolve the case but he never knows what he has been accused of. I found this point quite humorous at times because everyone in the book knows that K has been arrested and yet no one knows why, but that doesn’t seem to matter. Kafka included many entertaining characters, such as K’s flamboyant uncle. K’s uncle came into the picture half way through the novel to assist K in getting a good lawyer. This character, accompanied with many exaggerated traits, doesn’t contribute much to the plot. I found the book entertaining, but I really struggled with the style in which it was written. Kafka strung many ideas into one paragraph at a time. A single paragraph could run for several pages. Dialog wasn’t broken up into separate lines either. This proved difficult to separate thoughts while reading. An aspect that I loved in his writing was how well he set the scene. At one point, K goes to visit someone whom he thinks will help him with the trial and the bizarre setting was written such that I felt like K was walking through Dr. Seuss’s Oh the Places You’ll Go. Out of 10 “trials” I would give it a 7. - Mary, class of 2010
The Truth about Forever
If you liked Sarah Dessen's Lock and Key, Someone Like You, or Just Listen, then you’ll enjoy reading The Truth about Forever. This book was about a girl, Macy, who had recently lost her father due to a heart attack. She arrived to the scene just after it was possible to save him, causing her a lot of pain and grief she deals with alone. Her mother throws herself into her work, leaving Macy alone and striving for perfection. Macy’s boyfriend soon leaves for the summer and a few weeks later breaks up with her, over email, as he is away at brain camp. Left to fend boredom by herself, she begins working for Delia, the owner of a catering company. Things are always in chaos, but through all their mishaps Macy starts gaining new friends of all different types, including Wes. Wes seems like the perfect boy, although different than anything Macy has ever experienced. The more Macy gets to know the crazy gang, the more she wants to leave her old life behind and leave the pain behind.
This book is definitely a girly book, meant for high school girls, full of romantic ideas and told solely through Macy’s perspective. The reader can relate to these down to earth characters, much like the mix of students around the world. Wes was portrayed as a lovable guy, one that leaves all the girls drooling because of his looks and his sweet attitude. Will Macy learn to let go of the past? Will her mom finally back down from the perfection she finds so comforting? Read The Truth about Forever to find out! - Jessica, class of 2010
Devil in the White City
“I was born with the devil in me. I could not help the fact that I was a murderer, no more than the poet can help the inspiration to sing.” -Dr. H. H. Holmes, confession, 1896 This quote sets the stage for The Devil in the White City by Erik Larson, who has also written the novels Isaac’s Storm and Thunderstruck. This novel pieces together two stories about the construction of the 1893 World’s Fair in Chicago and about the notorious Dr. H.H. Holmes and his murders. The story begins when Chicago architects Daniel Burnham and his partner John Root receive the honor of designing and constructing the numerous, elaborate buildings that will house the World’s Fair. Burnham and his crew must complete the fair in a year and a half and also surpass the last World’s Fair held in France. With many other American architects, Burnham manages to build the majestic and unforgettable White City. But, lurking within Chicago is the evil Dr. Herman Mudgett, also know as H.H. Holmes. Holmes is drawn to the fair by the money that is sure to come after he builds a large hotel to house the many who will journey to Chicago for the fair. During that time, Holmes invites naïve, young women to stay at his “castle” where he manages to seduce them with his charm and eventually kill them. Each chapter alternates between Burnham and the other architects and Dr. Holmes. Erik Larson makes each chapter featuring Burnham easy to understand for any reader who isn’t familiar with architecture. The chilling and unbelievable crimes described in horrible detail that Holmes commits also keep the pages turning from beginning to end. This is book is for anyone who is interesting in Chicago history or want to know more about Holmes. Travel back in time to the World’s Fair with Burnham and Root, Olmsted and Adler, but don’t watch out for the devil in the White City. - Dina, class of 2010
Something Borrowed by Emily Giffin
Something Borrowed captures the conflict between being true to yourself and following your true love, or if it is better to keep a loyal and lifetime friend. Rachael has been friends with Darcy since they were 5 years old, they grew up together in Indiana as next door neighbors. However personality wise, they are nothing alike. Rachael was studious and focused on her career and future, she took everything more serious. Darcy relied on her looks and barely got by in school, just like her mom. Her mom married into wealth, and she barely finished 3 semesters of school, Darcy thought that was the way to go.
This book, was very good, and very interesting. With so may twists and turns in the plot, the ending can not be guessed. The evolving opinion of the charectars constantly change as you get more insight into the realtionships between charectars. Overall this was a good book that I would definatly recommend. - Kelsey, class of 2010
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