Hi, Everyone!
How's it going? I trust that you are so very much enjoying your friends and family this break, sharing a meal or two, seeing movies, mastering new computer games, and delving into long put-off projects.
I've seen some great movies, finished Randy Pausch's THE LAST LECTURE (thanks, Jillian...
we might use some of his suggestion in our work this new year) and have just started THE SHACK (Ms. O'Malley, I will read Mr. P's book after this, as a friend is begging me to read THE SHACK right now). So far, the forward has not impressed me as the writing seems a bit too pedestrian...predicatble, hokey...you know what I mean. However, I am not going to abandon this book because the story is supposed to be jaw-dropping...we shall see. And besides, it's a quick read.
Anyway, so my resolution this year is to try to create more of a balance between what I've got saved in my library to read and some of the books you've suggested that I read and what I have to read for school. So, BALANCE is the word for me.
Let me know what you're thinking about changing-up, starting for the first time, or revising re: your reading life in 2009.
Miss you guys...
Be safe and...
HAPPY NEW YEAR a few hours early!
Love,
Mrs. D
First!
ReplyDeleteSo far my vacation reading has been going well, and I've finished five books, including Snow in August. My New Year's resolution, reading-wise, is to try reading a memoir, since that's not usually my thing. If anybody has some good memoir suggestions, let me know... See you all in school.
WAY to GO, Mr. First!
ReplyDeleteCharlie, you might like A LONG WAY GONE: MEMOIRS OF A BOY SOLDIER. I gave it to Sean, and he really likes it. Since it has a political bent and is a story of a mostly unfamiliar place, you might like it.
And, as always...way to go re: all of your reads.
Can't wait to speak to you about SNOW IN AUGUST.
Hasta manana (where are the tildes?!).
See you tomorrow.
Mz. D
As far as my reading went, some of you may know that I finished THE LAST LECTURE. I just finished THE SHACK...some profound, helpful ideas in there, but I was not WOWED by it like the universe as I found the plot predictable. And, I'm rereading SNOW IN AUGUST, which I just love. I just LOVE the protagonist, as I can identify with him completely!
ReplyDeleteSo, let's continue posting on this thread...get the word out to the masses.
Oh, by the way, I met a friend in the city for lunch, and I finished the meal off with a tea called Iron Goddess of Mercy. How's that for a moniker? So, if you see me sign off with IGOM, you'll know to whom I'm referring....
Peace and see you tomorrow,
Mz. D
Hey Mrs. Drance! Sorry for posting so late. I finished INKSPELL and the ending was pretty good, but I took a break from the series. I guess I was just expecting a great ending, and while it was good, it didn't leave me thirsting for more. I did read THE THIEF LORD awhile ago and loved it. After reading that book I started reading INKSPELL, it really got me hooked.
ReplyDeleteOver vacation I read DIARY OF A WIMPY KID. It was a fast read and a page turner. I loved it. I also started reading FOUND but Margaret Peterson Haddix. She wrote the SHADOW CHILDREN SERIES which I loved. This is the first book in her brand new series THE MISSING. It is great and full of suspense. I think that I am enjoying it more than the TWILIGHT SERIES. FOUND is also a science fiction type book. I love a good suspense story and as long as it isn't completely science fiction I really enjoy it. Once aliens start taking over earth it has goon too far. But this is a great book for people who normally don't like science fiction but would like to try it. Well see you tomorrow!
Ellen
Hi Mrs. Drance! I'm sorry for posting late! I finished What Happened to Cass McBride? and it wasn't my "favorite" book. At all. It was about this disturbed boy who kidnaps this girl, Cass, and buries her alive in a wooden box with a walkie talkie and an oxygen tube.He kidnaps her because he thinks she has something to do with his brother's suicide. It was poorly written and had a horrible ending. I could kind of see the idea the author had in mind but it was excecuted horribly. The book was really short though, so at least I added another book to my book list. I will be reading The Five People You Meet in Heaven and of course, Snow in August (for the second time, well up to page 200)so I think I am set for a bit. Well I'll see you tomorrow!
ReplyDeleteKaylee
I finished Love Story[underlined] over the break, and I need to find a new book. Almost done with Snow In August[underlined]. I still chuckle to self at times from your crazy Jesus story Mrs. Drance. Memories are always good. Adios!
ReplyDeleteI finished reading J.K. Rowling's new book and Snow in August as well. I also just started a biography on Warren Buffet (NOT Jimmy Buffet)
ReplyDeleteJohn, precious, you need to write down what you think of the books as an official post. What AMAZES me is how much you have to say in class...just "talk" on the blog, John. You can do it!
ReplyDeleteLove,
Iron Goddess of Mercy
Lauren, yes, well, we can laugh about the crazy-stigmata-laden-child-chasin' man in the woods NOW.
ReplyDeleteLauren,
What was even scarier was when we all saw him in church. YIKES! Then he disappeared. Poof! Maybe this scene should go into the series.
O.K., did you like LOVE STORY as much as Kate?
I have a stack of books from which you can choose tomorrow in class.
Mrs. D
Ellen,
ReplyDeleteI LOVED DIARY OF A WHIMPY KID! How funny is that book! Hysterical! Loved that it was a quick read, too. There's a sequel. Mrs. Herbst has a copy of it in the library...I think the 7th and 8th grade teachers have copies, too. I haven't read the sequel, but if you don't like Mitch Abloom (sp?) trade the book I gave you today for that.
FOUND sounds creepily good, and I too aren't into aliens swarming the Earth and eating us for breakfast. Some of us are different, though, so... peace to that!
Maybe when your done with FOUND, I can borrow it. Let me know.
One last bit...what, do you think, is making you love FOUND more than the TWILIGHT series?
I CAN'T WAIT TO FIND OUT!
xo,
Ms. D
Mrs. Drance,
ReplyDeleteMy resolution for 2009 is to try and read shorter books. I've been looking around and I've found some shorter books that are a good read. I'm finishing this one book No Limits: The Will To Succeed by Michael Phelps and I've learned so much more about him and what he's been through during his life time.
I am also going to start the Twilight series very soon, as well as the Series of Unfortunate events series.
Kaylee, honey, I'm so sorry that [...]CASS McBRIDE was a big ol' bust! Tell me exactly what made you think that it was poorly written and why you think the ending was poorly executed (is there a way for you to address this without giving "it" away and do you think people would care if you did?). How did you come upon this read? If in my library, should we get rid of it.
ReplyDeleteIt sounds "bad creepy," and not well-written.
Just give me some details.
Also, let me know if you uncover anything new in your second go around with SNOW IN AUGUST.
Thanks,
Mrs. D
Hey, Becks...you sound like you've got a good plan. Let me know if I can help you in any other way. Let me know what you think about TWILIGHT -
ReplyDeleteI think you'll enjoy the series.
Sorry I didn't comment over break, I think I checked a little too early in the break. Anyway, I read 2 books over break. Big Fish was great, and I read a book called The Precoius Present, which was recommended to me by my aunt. It was pretty terrible, but an extremely easy read that helped pass a long car ride. Ok talk to ya later
ReplyDeleteHi, Chris. What made BIG FISH great? What made the PRECIOUS PRESENT terrible. Dude, you need to elaborate because we're interested in what you think about what you read. Maybe you'll save us from a horrible read or introduce us to a great one. Lastly, I'm jealous that you can read in the car...if I do, I get sick.
ReplyDeletePeace,
IGOM
P.S. I'm glad you read two books. What's on deck?
sorry for posting late, im reading two books right now, both of them are good. one of them is the history book you gave me and the other is fromt is crazy conspiracy theorist, its pretty good. i dont know how long it'll take me, i suck at life.
ReplyDelete-mark
Hey Mrs. Drance! The reason why I liked FOUND so much more than THE TWILIGHT SERIES was because right from the start I was hooked. The first 200 pages in TWILIGHT did not live up to my expectations and were fairly boring. Right from the start of this book, I was hooked. There were times in TWILIGHT and especially in NEW MOON where I just wanted to skip several chapters and get to the better parts of the story. It could have also been that I had such high expectations for TWILIGHT and didn't really have any for FOUND.
ReplyDeleteThe end seemed of FOUND seemed more like a science fiction book than the rest of the story. I can see the second book having more science fiction elements in it. I just hope it is as good as the first. I got FOUND out of the public library and just returned it, so it should be there. The author is Margaret Peterson Haddix and it is in the Young Adult section. It might be under new fiction books, I am not sure. See you tomorrow!
Haha, that's funny I think you should start your series already!! LOVE STORY was okay, I would only recommend it to a person who is into that sort of reading. The whole in depth love stories, and tragedies having to do with love, lies and drama. I like to read books that keep you on the edge, and are filled with suspense; they keep my interest. I forgot to look today for a book but I will look tomorrow.
ReplyDeleteOk, expanding on my previous post, I liked BIG FISH because I liked the crazy stories of the man's life and they kept me interested in the book. I didn't like THE PRECIOUS PRESENT because there was no real storyline, it was more focused on inspiration and making the reader feel happy with themself. I already feel pretty happy with my life, so I was extremely uninterseted in this book.
ReplyDeleteCurrently, I am reading THE 5 PEOPLE YOU MEET IN HEAVEN. I read TUESDAYS WITH MORRIE last year, and I was told the two books go hand in hand, so I figured I'd give it a try. I just started the book, but so far I like it. SOmething about Eddie's personality really intruiges me. I plan to read MAXIMUM RIDE, by James Patterson next since I was told that it was a great book.
dear mrs. drance,
ReplyDeletesorry for posting so late, i've been putting the blog off so i could find time for reading. anyways, i'm reading RUNNING WITH SCISSORS, and i find it hysterical. In the beginning, when Augusten's (the main character) mother uses maxi-pads to make shoulder pads. The way Augusten looks up to her and dresses up in her clothes and reads poetry when she leaves is also funny. I can't wait to read the rest of the book and then watch the movie after, because i love seeing what the movie is like after the book. SNOW IN AUGUST is really good too, i'm trying to finish it soon. Michael Devlin is such a little good boy, love him! anyways, i'm gonna go so i can read.
so long,
kate <3
Kate! I love the example you gave because for lack of better words, Augusten's mother is resourceful. Do you know that RUNNING WITH SCISSORS is a memoir, so when you write about Augusten, referring to him as a character fictionalizes him, unless he's being "a character," which I don't think you mean, although, from the sound of your description sounds like there's a lot of potential....I also love to see how the movie will turn out, but most always is the book better.
ReplyDeleteAs for SNOW IN AUGUST - I LOVE that book so very much because of little Mike Devlin.
One last bit...PLEASE use upper and lower cases.
Grammar, usage, mechanics, and spelling (GUMS) apply.
See you tomorrow.
Mrs. D
Lauren, I couldn't read everyone's posts last night because my computer died. This has never happened before, and I am besides myself. I'm blogging from school right now. Anyway, as you saw the selections were not based on what you like; however, THE YELLOW STAR is very powerful. Let me know what you think. If you hate it, you may abandon it. But, since it's a short read, I think you can handle it and will find it profound.
ReplyDeleteSee you tomorrow.
Mrs. Drance
I have not read LOVE STORY, so I don't have an opinion about it other than it was very popular in the 70's. It's a modern classic. How's that for an oxymoron?
Everyone (Because All Y'All Do This):
ReplyDelete"Anyways" is a bastardized, colloquial (everyday talk) version of "anyway." Please avoid using it because I'm afraid that when you have to write formally, and you need a transition, you will slip-up and put down the WRONG word..."AnywayS," instead of what's right...ANYWAY. Anyway, heed my advice.
Thank you.
The Management
Mark, you far from "s[tin]k at life." You may hate to buckle down and do the work of the "game" school, but you are one of the brightest students around and one of the best writers I have come across in my career. So, let's find some time to talk.
ReplyDeleteO.k., let me know about the books. Who might like to read next LIES MY TEACHER TOLD ME and why? In addition, what's the conspiracy in the second book? Who might like that? Why?
Hang in there.
IGOM
P.S. Please use upper and lower cases. Thanks, much.
Thanks much should NOT have a comma.
ReplyDeleteI'm rushing....
BECS, feel better.
LAUREN, let's talk briefly about punctuation re: your last post.
Chris, I read THE PRECIOUS PRESENT awhile ago. An aunt of my gave it to me. I can see why you didn't like it. Thanks for the explanation.
ReplyDeleteHave you figured out what it is about Eddie that you like so much? When you do let, let me know.
And, much better job including details!
Take care,
M.D.
Ellen, can anyone say, "where are the pitchforks so I can put them in my pupils?"
ReplyDeleteI know, GROSS...!
But, NEW MOON was terrifically slow to get into, and there were only a few moments that were engaging in the ENTIRE book.
You know, the whole "having high expectations about something" can really devalue it if whatever that something is doesn't live up to what you thought it would be. This happened to me way back in 1977 when STAR WARS first came out (Sci-Fi Boys - you know who you are - do not take offence...). Yes, this cult classic was a wonderful film and a forerunner of sophisticated, fabulous special effects. But, for the reason that it took me awhile to get to the theatre to see it...well, I missed the wave of fanaticism that swept over the country re: this classic coming-of-age story. I like it better in retrospect because I can appreciate all its innovations. Frankly, I didn't really quite know what to expect with STAR WARS, but I felt that I was missing something when I first saw it.
Anyway, thanks for the info. re: where to find the book. I'll go to my library or B & N to get a copy. Let me know if the second book is totally riddled with aliens, but Charlie, Ethan, etc. can you weigh-in re: why aliens are great?
Maybe you can convince us alien-allergic folk to
embrace the other-worldly perspective.
BTW, who has a copy of ERAGON that I can borrow? It's gone from 235's library....
Talk to you all later.
Please encourage others to post if you catch-up with them online. I'm still at school and will be leaving soon; I won't be able to check at home because, as I said, my computer is either sick or, heaven forbid, dead.
Talk with you later,
Mrs. D
"Thanks much" should be in quotes because I was referring to it as an expression. The quotes help the reader know that the writer is commenting on these two words in particular (e.g. readers should read the words with a certain tone, or acknowledge them as a seperate phrase different from the writer's won voice, or ascribe them a special meaning, or know that the writer knows that the phrase is a cliche or someone else's words, etc.).
ReplyDeleteI'll put quotes around expressions frequently throughout my postings. You can find examples there.
Mrs. D
Hey, Y'All:
ReplyDeleteMr. Drance has a Macbook that I'm bringing with me on my trip so that I can check-in and catch up with you. If you have yet to post, please do so...this week's won't count as next weeks and this weeks post. For those of you who have read the posts, see if you need to follow-up with an additional post. The idea: we're having a conversation.
Peace out,
Ms. D
All the weeks should have apostrophes! Boy, is haste makin' waste!
ReplyDeleteD
Hi, Mrs. Drance,
ReplyDeleteFor some reason, I was unable to post yesterday, and I just tried a few minutes ago and it didn't work. Anyway, I am really enjoying THE LAST LECTURE, although I forgot it in my locker, so I guess I will finish it tomorrow. Over the weeekend I will be sure to listen to THE LAST LECTURE and watch the videos over the weekend.
Sometimes it is very confusing reading different books at one time, but I will try to stop doing that after I finish these few I am going through now. I know I have said this last time, about stopping, but when I find a book that I want to read, I start it, while reading other books.
Bye! Jillian
Hey Mrs. Drance!
ReplyDeleteI am really enjoying the book THE BEACH HOUSE, by James Patterson. I love the fact that it takes place on Long Island because I like reading the familiar roads and towns. I also love the short chapters as we were discussing in class. Each concluding paragraph of each chapter seems to leave the reader thirsting for more.
I am hoping to read more books by James Patterson because I love his technique. I was wondering, do you know if the James Patterson books are written sequentially?
~Linda=)
Hi Mrs.Drance sorry i took so long to post. Im reading A Long Way Home and i really liked it in the begining of the book but now the person who it is about in the book is moving around way to much, he seems to be in a different town every other page, and i really cant seem to follow it. Any tips?
ReplyDelete-sean
Juggar King,
ReplyDeleteWhat a great question...hmmm. O.k., what about this: try not getting hung up, so to speak, on where he is. Try to connect with what he's experiencing...maybe a memorable person, or incident, or meal, or emotion. When I took my first conversational Spanish class, I was overwhelmed by what seemed to be an ocean of sound. So, my teacher told us not to get caught up in trying to decipher every single word, but to take notice of what in particular struck us.
Let me know if this works for you, you know, stepping back, and letting key moments hit you.
Good luck,
Mz. D
Linda!
ReplyDeleteI loved THE BEACH HOUSE for the same reasons you do! It was my first James Patterson book. Catherine O'Malley, who LOVES J.P., lent me 6TH PRECINCT, which is part of a Patterson's series where the detective is a female. So, you can start there. You might want to check in with her to see if she can lend you any books from the series, or I'm sure the library has many.
I'm glad you're enjoying the book! I'd like to talk to you about what you think about the ending when you get there.
Peace and have a great weekend.
Mrs. D
Jillie...let me know if the video of the lecture is better or equal to the experience of reading the book. I mean, they would be different because of their mediums, but you know what I mean.
ReplyDeleteI'm so happy you're enjoying it.
Do you think it would be a good idea for everyone in the class to read it at one point or another?
Check out Alice, too. I think Lloyd is going to as well.
Let me know how paring down the amount of books you're reading at one time goes.
If you can juggle and in-class read and your IR read, then you're fine. I know it's hard to discipline yourself when there are so many wonderful books at there into which you want to dive!
Perhaps think: "I won't start ________ until I'm done with _________."
Let me know how it goes.
Have a great weekend.
Mrs. D
Mrs Drance,
ReplyDeleteSorry it took me so long to post for the 2nd time- my computer has been acting funny for the last week. About the book, What Happened to Cass McBride? , I'm having a hard time pinpointing what I think makes it so poorly written. There were 2 things that really stood out for me - one was there was alot of "question asking", like the author asked the reader alot of questions, but too many I think. At least 1/4 of the page was the narrator asking questions. Another thing was I don't really know what it is called but the author broke up the sentences alot- like...He was there. Sitting there. Waiting. - I don't know, it was obnoxious to read. I went on a Top 100 books list and I found it, it looks like an intresting mystery but it turned out to be a waste of my time =]
See you monday!
Kaylee
Mrs. Drance,
ReplyDeleteI apologize for it taking me so long to post, ive had a hard time signing in but i think i got it now. OVer the vacation i finished Bleachers and found it to be quite interesting and it is also a quick and easy read for anybody that is interested. It does not have much action but the story is well written and i enjoyed it. For this new year i would like to read more than i do now. Although the goal is 25 i plan on reading more than that. Right now i am reading The Five People you Meet in Heaven, but i need an on deck book. If anyone has any suggestions then let me know. Everybody have a nice day
Mrs. Drance,
ReplyDeleteI finished The Body Of Christopher Creed. I won't give away the ending of the book but it sure does give alot of open ended questions. Overall it was ok, although i kept thinking the main character was a girl because his name was Torey.
I've also been reading Snow in August, and I'm starting to enjoy it more. It certainly is a page turner. I liked the Golem story :p
I think I'll read A Diary of a Wimpy Kid next. It sounds interesting.
Steven, do you like The Five People You Meet In Heaven? I thought it was good, but not great.
Ethan
Mrs. Drance,
ReplyDeleteI don't know who would like LIES MY TEACHER TOLD ME, I guess anyone who is interested in history. The other book is written by a guy who thinks the world is ruled by a half-reptile half-human species. Awkward...
-Mark
Mrs. Drance,
ReplyDeleteI started to read HARRY POTTER AND THE SORCERER'S STONE, by J.K. Rowling, but I actually decided to hold that off because I want to finish the A-LIST series. It is not that I had anything in particular against the novel, but it is just that I don't want to commit to another series until I've finished everything that I started. I am currently reading BLONDE AMBITION: AN A-LIST NOVEL, by Janet Fitch. I feel like when I decide to start the HARRY POTTER series I am going to want to read it all at once, so I'm putting it off for a while.
On the other hand SNOW IN AUGUST was definitely one of the best school books I've ever read; it is just so interesting that I never wanted to put the novel down. It is by far the best school book of the year. Are there any other engaging books by this author that I can read?
-Jenn
@Mrs. Drance:
ReplyDeleteI finished reading Fast Food Nation and Snow in August between the vacation and the past week. I enjoyed, Fast Food Nation because it was factual in both that it provided a historical background on the fast-food industry including its beginnings both in America and back in Ancient Rome. Snow in August was a good book too; the only thing I didn’t like too much was the ending because it was completely unrealistic. I looked into Alice briefly, not quite sure if it requires programming skills or if it is supposed to teach programming skills
@Mark:
Lies My Teacher Told Me sounds like a good on-deck book.
Kaylee,
ReplyDeleteYou very specifically described what bugged you about the writing in [...]CASS MCBRIDE. It appears that the overuse of fragments and the questioning could have annoyed you because they appeared to be "crutches." You know, as if the writer is thinking out loud, trying to come up with something more substantive to say, but can't, so he or she puts down the obvious, which is insulting to the reader's intelligence because he or she asks those questions anyway!
On the other hand, regarding the use of fragments perhaps to stretch out time...that's annoying if overused because, again, your brain is making the jump to the next sequence of events, and the reader becomes irritated when the action stops because of obvious commentation. Fragment usage is an effective tool in creating suspense if used sparingly and cleverly.
Way to go, Kaylee, in not giving up trying to describe what was bothering you! This is the way to be so that I can help you learn more about writing!
Mrs. Drance
EVERYONE! If you are wanting use the word "a lot," it's written with a space after "a", like
ReplyDeletethis:
A LOT
You may use "a lot" in the blog, but generally, try to stay away from it because it is not strong writing as it sounds vague and informal.
Also, YOU MUST USE CAPITALS! I know it's hard, but this isn't email.
Thanks, Mrs. D
Steve, thanks for your comments about BLEACHERS. What makes it well-written? Does anyone who read the book agree? Tell us, what specifically, made you enjoy the book.
ReplyDeleteDid you read THE GLASS CASTLE? What are you in the "mood" to read? Do you want a challenge? Would you like to try a different genre? Ask people at your table; they may have suggestions for you.
Let me know if you need more help in getting an on-deck book.
Mz. D
Ethan, thanks for your comments. What made the ending of SNOW IN AUGUST great? Why didn't you think THE FIVE PEOPLE YOU MEET IN HEAVEN wasn't so great? I agree with you, but I'm interested to hear what you have to say. Thanks for trying to help out Steve. Regarding THE BODY OF CHRISTOPHER CREED, do you think there was anything else about Torey that made you think he was a girl besides his name? Meaning, do you think he had personality traits often attributed to females? Good observations, Ethan; I'm looking forward to your responses. Mrs. Drance
ReplyDeleteMark, what makes the reptile book "awkward"?
ReplyDeleteThat's a provocative adjective, "awkward."
I'm interested to hear what you think.
Ms. D
Y'all! Prepositions in titles ARE NOT capitalized.
ReplyDeleteJust an FYI....
Drance
That is, unless they are the FIRST word in the title. Also, please either capitalize titles or boldface them so it makes them easier to read.
ReplyDeleteThanks,
Mrs. Drance
Jenn, I understand your thinking behing your reading plan.
ReplyDeleteRegarding SNOW IN AUGUST, I haven't read anything else by Pete Hamill, but know he is a wonderful writer. I'd go to the Amazon link at the bottom of the page, type in his name, and read what comes up.
Let me know how this goes.
BTW, even though I don't mind, do you ever feel that you want to take a break inbetween reading the series "straight through?"
Let me know.
Thanks,
Mrs. D
Lloyd, great job providing specifics in your posts. They support your opinions about the books you are reading. Keep it up.
ReplyDeleteAlso, thanks for getting in touch with Mark...that's one of the intents of the blog.
And, Alice is supposed to teach programming while creating programs. You don't have to have prior experience.
See you later.
Mrs. Drance
Mrs. Drance,
ReplyDeleteI looked on Amazon for more books by Pete Hamill, but nothing looks quite as interesting as SNOW IN AUGUST. As far as reading series "straight through," I don't think that I am going to consider not doing so until after A-LIST is out of the way.
-Jenn
heyy everyone, sorry this took so long. Like I said in class- "On the Street Where you Live"(are the capitals rightly placed?), by Marry Higgins clark really was excellent. A thriller to say the least, but it also had a very in depth story line, a twisted plot, and a suprising ending. I would recommend it to everyone in the class. especially lauren, Catherine, Kaylee, and all you other Patterson fans. After that, I read "Love Story", and sorry kate, I absolutley hated it. What was so great about it? all the description was put in the wrong places, I was also very bored. I personally found Oliver crying in his fathers arms much more important and touching than Jenny's death. Maybe it's just me, idrk. See everyone in class tomorrow! btw when is the vobac quiz again?-kelsey
ReplyDeleteOh Snap wt* sorry my moms email was signed on, I swear it was kelsey not lisa.
ReplyDeleteKelsey, precious, PUH-LEEZ proofread before posting. You need to get in the habit of employing correct GUMS (grammar, usage, mechanics, and spelling).
ReplyDeleteBTW, great job providing support for your opinions. I was particularly intrigued by the comment about the description being put in "all the wrong places." Can you talk more about that?
The quiz on Unit 8 is tomorrow. Unit 9 is due Friday.
So, now, please teach me...what does "IRDK" mean?
Thanks, Kelsey, for keeping me "in the loop."
O.k., back to mechanics. You must use upper and lower cases. Check your spelling. For instance, "in depth" can be spelled with or without a hypen, like so: "in-depth," or "indepth." Mary has one "r" not two. LOVE STORY needs to be underlined (when you handwrite it); quotation marks are only used for short stories. And the caps for ON THE STREET THAT YOU LIVE...you use caps like so: On the Street That You Live. "The" is not capitalized because it is not the first word and because it is a definite article. Because we can not use html language to code the title to be underlined either boldface it or use all caps, which would defeat the purpose of learning what to cap and what not to cap, but I recall giving a handout at the beginning of the year that lists what parts of speech are capitalized and what aren't capitalized.
Let me know if this helps.
Peace,
Mrs. Drance
HI EVERYBODY! HIS DR. NICK! Now that that is over i would to tell you, Mrs. Drance, that I am currently reading THE SNOWBALL, which is an authorized biography on the life of stock market guru, Warren Buffet. So far I am enjoying this read mainly for the fact that i hope to work in finance in some way shape or form as an adult. I wouldn't reccomend this book to many people, the only way you would find it enjoyable is if you find the topic interesting.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteHi. So I'm reading YELLOW STAR right now, and I'm getting really into it. The Introduction was a great idea; it was so suspenseful and a perfect way to keep the reader's interest. I don't really like the way the book is formatted. She breaks up the novel into really brief sections under one worded subjects and it comes off as very "choppy". The book itself is very well written and easy to understand, she does a great job of writing it in a child's point of view. I think it's terrible what Syvia has to go through and at such a young age. I agree with the author, her niece, when she says that if you ask a survivor of the Holocaust about it they'll change the subject. But it's a good thing that there are a select few willing to share with the world the hardships and what it was REALLY like to be living through the Holocaust. This book is a short read and is very insightful and deep. After I'm done with this book, a book called NINETEEN MINUTES by Jodi Picoult was recommended to me, so I'm going to start that. NIGHT! 8]
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteMrs. Drance,
ReplyDeleteThank you for the "feel better" on the blog from January 7th. I'm sorry I didn't get to thank you earlier. Right now, I am still finishing up NO LIMITS: THE WILL TO SUCCEED because I've been really busy. I know I need to stick to my goal and get back on track. In the last chapter I read, I really like how Michael Phelps tells about his coach Bob and how he pushes him just enough so that he is determined to reach his goals. Bob has been him since the beginning and he is a very good coach (Just look at the results!). Another thing that I thought was cool is Michael had a special school schedule to earn a diploma while he would be away at meets most of the time. I would love to have a schedule where I was able to come into school later and get out earlier but sadly, it doesn't work that way.
I'll let you know what happens next. I also recommend this book to anyone who enjoys the sport of swimming (whether they are swimming or not) or if you like Michael Phelps :)
- Rebecca.
Mrs. Drance,
ReplyDeleteI finally got this to work! So, I am currently reading Breaking Dawn which is the last of the Twilight books. I am really enjoying it and I'm quite anxious to see how everything turns out. I need some helping finding a on deck book for when i finish Breaking Dawn. Any suggestions? Let me know.
Mrs. Drance,
ReplyDeleteMy reading life is finally picking up again. I'm getting more into my books and actually like wanting to read a lot more. I finished my James Patterson book which had a really good twist to the ending. I absolutely loved that. This book was slow in the beginning, but to the middle it picked up so much. I am starting my new series, the GOSSIP GIRLS series. We'll see how that works out for me.
John, I think you did a good job letting us know who would like the book and wouldn't because you gave us specific information about its contents. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteRegarding punctuation, etc. Please proofread before you post to check your punctuation, spelling, grammar, etc.
THIS IS A SHOUT OUT TO EVERYONE...
When you use direct address, make sure that you use commas before introducing the name of the person you are addressing.
For instance, "Hi, Dr. Nick!" has a comma before the name of the person being addressed. If the name is in the middle of a sentence, you'd use two commas, like so: "Hey, Sue, why did you call me when I told you I was hangin' with the boys?" You may also start the sentence with a name: "Dr. Nick, John is paging you!" The comma would go after the name.
So, in essence, "Hey, Everyone!" would have a comma if you are addressing all of us.
Let me know if this doesn't make sense.
Mrs. D
Lauren, MOST EXCELLENT JOB at describing what you liked and didn't like about the book! I found that the format was choppy as well, but I thought that this might help more reluctant readers, so I didn't mind. I also thought that the author may have written short passages because the content is so emotionally heavy. You know, too much for the heart to take at one time.
ReplyDeleteAnother point...maybe you mean that you "understand" why Holocaust survivors are reluctant to talk about their experiences, rather than you "agree" with their choice to keep quiet.
I understand, too, but I also think it imperative that survivors share the atrocities of the Holocaust as to prevent it from happening again (which it did and does: Bosnia, Rwanda, etc.) You might agree with me on this one. Or not. Let me know.
One little punctuation bit...when you are writing the title of the book and the name of the author you need to put commas after the title and after his or her name, like so:
I will be reading NINETEEN MINUTES, by Jodi Picoult, once I finish my on-deck book.
BTW, I hear it's great. I have a copy at home.
See you later,
Mrs. D
Becs, when you write, I can hear you speak. Way to go. No worries about saying "thank you!" You were sick, and I wanted to let you know that we were thinking of you. How kind of you to let me know that you appreciated it!
ReplyDeleteYeah, that special school schedule...well, they'd have to, right? I wonder how we would handle that here at BHS, if one of you were an Olympic hopeful? Any suggestions?
See you later,
Mrs. Drance
Ashely, I am proud of you that you remained persistent and were successful in logging on.
ReplyDeleteYou can do it, girl!
Anyway, what do you love best about BREAKING DAWN? Let me know...also, you might want to ask Jenn about the title of another novel with a different subject matter that Stephanie Meyers wrote...Jenn may have even mentioned the title in an earlier thread, but not the one written through Edward's eyes. I suggest reading that if you don't want to give up reading Ms. Meyers. Or, you might want to try a completely different genre. Have you read THE GLASS CASTLE? It's awesome. Talk to Kate, Lauren, and Kelsey about it....
O.K., I look forward to hearing from you.
See you later,
Mrs. Drance
Hi, Cat. What was the title of the James Patterson book you just read? I'm curious. Glad to hear that you're out of a rut; we all get in one or two or three throughout the course of the year, depending upon how busy are schedules are. Getting out is the trick, which you did, so congrats.
ReplyDeleteLet me know what you think of the GOSSIP GIRL series. Who recommended them to you?
Looking forward to hearing from you.
See you later....
Mrs. Drance
Hey Mrs. Drance,
ReplyDeleteI am still reading THE FIVE PEOPLE YOU MEET IN HEAVEN, by Mitch Albom. I am really enjoying it so far because I love how the author's writing style helps you understand the characters' emotions. Answering your question about the book from last time, I think I finally figured out what intriuges me about Eddie. I like how he can be so caring to others at times, but also be serious when he needs to. It' kind of like you can't predict what he's going to do next.
I am going to read MAXIMUM RIDE, by James Patterson, next. I am excited to read this since I have been told numerous times it is a great book. I also like James Patterson's writing style from THE BEACH HOUSE. Maybe I should read some of his books...
Ok! talk to you later.
-Chris
P.S.- I remember you talking about Jeff Kinney's series DIARY OF A WIMPY KID awhile back, and heard recently that he just came out with a new installment called DIARY OF A WIMPY KID: THE LAST STRAW. I am really excited to read this because I think that series is hilarious. I love how pathetic Greg is. Ok this is really it now :p
Hello again,
ReplyDeleteYes, I do mean "understand" not "agree with", my fault. I also do agree with you that people should divulge their knowledge and trauma about the Holocaust because it can be used to prevent others. I actually just did a History report on the Bosnia Genocide, what a terrible occurrence that was.=[ Are we allowed to borrow the copy of NINETEEN MINUTES from you?
Au Revoir!
thanks for the grammer tips Mrs. Drance, they helped a lot. When I said the description was put it the wrong places, I meant that I think the author evaluates too much on little things that are irrelevant to the story, yet does not provide enough information on the most critical parts of the book. idrk means I don't really know[=. see everyone tomorrow!
ReplyDeleteMrs. Drance,
ReplyDeleteThe James Patterson book that i just finished was 3RD CHANCE.
Did you start your James Patterson book yet?
The GOSSIP GIRLS series was recommended by my sister, Shannon. She gave me the whole series because she claimed they were great and had great diction. I'm actually really excited to read them and see how they go. I'm starting the first one tonight! =]
Chris, what a FABULOUS post! You gave such specific examples that I really was able to appreciate your p.o.v. Also, sometimes readers might connect with a character and not know why. They just know that they LIKE him or her.
ReplyDeleteAnd, sometimes, it takes time to figure out exactly what appeals to them about the character. So, do not worry that you couldn't "put your finger on it," so to speak.
You did and figuring out why will get easier the more you read and talk about books.
Let me know how the second and third books in the series are...I love Greg because all the dorky feelings I had at his age are right on the page!
And, yes, do try another James P. You'll whip through the book quickly and feel good about meeting your 25+ book goal. (I think everyone has to read 29 books.) He can be your "reward" author.
This is your best post. Keep on doing what you're doing here...mining the details, putting them on the screen...your writing and thinking will ultimately benefit from your work.
See you later,
Mrs. Drance :p
Lauren, honey, listen. You didn't do anything terrible! You are a language learner, and I am just calling your attention to words, not to make you feel as if you are completely daft, but to hone your diction. I just hope I didn't make you feel bad...
ReplyDeleteI didn't always used to be the way I am now, you know, "hyper hyper" about usage, diction, etc. After college, I went to work for a very big, prestigious, corporate law firm. Actually, I was surprised that I got the job, but happy that I was given the challenge. Some side information: I went to a highly competitive college, but I was intimidated because most all of the lawyers went to Ivy league school for undergraduate and law school.
Anyway, I'm a pretty articulate person, right?
I didn't feel so around these people because in law every word has its own nuance(s) and the combinations of words have very many different meanings depending upon their order. One misplaced word, and you could have a big hole in your case. One word that doesn't accurately represent your thoughts, your intentions, could hurt your client. Words are everything in law. So, this is the place where I really learned to "step-up" my reading life: the TIMES or the WALL STREET JOURNAL in the morning on the commute in, a novel or journals on the way home.
I really though about what I said before I said it because one's thinking was continually challenged in this environment. I want you "to play with the big boys" when you graduate, hence my attention to detail re: language.
Now, as for 19 MINUTES. I have my copy at home; I will try to dig it up for you. Just please give it back in decent condition. You might also want to check with Mrs. Herbst. She might have a copy for you. Let me know.
Peace,
Mrs. Drance
Kelsey, girl, you are so very insightful. I loved your explanation of the descriptive writing in LOVE STORY...very articulate, you are.
ReplyDeleteAlso, I appreciate that you are getting something from the grammar tips. Thanks for having a thick skin. And, way to go working on using upper and lower cases. If you don't mind...one last bit...remember to cap the letter of the first word in the sentence.
Thank you for your comments and keep on posting!
A hug,
Mrs. Drance
Cat, yes, I did start my book! And, I LOVE the short chapters and, like you said, that the protagonist is a woman. I'm at the point where she just finds out about the boy in the hospital, the son of the woman who was shot at the beginning of the book...you know what I mean.
ReplyDeleteJenn Granda is the GOSSIP GIRL queen, meaning that she read the entire series; you'll have a lot to talk about. I read the first one that I think she or Karen lent me, and there are a couple of words here and there that definitely you'll pick up. Just don't pick up the nasty attitude of some of those girls! (I'm joshin' you) Horrible! Actually, I stopped reading the series because the girls were sooooo mean. But, if I were your age, I probably would have read the series because you learn a lot about people when you observe their actions; in this case, you learn a lot about people when you pay attention to how characters interact. Even if it's fiction.
Good job following up on the post. Keep up the good work.
Peace,
Mrs. Drance
Mrs. Drance
ReplyDeleteI can’t decide whether I liked the video of the lecture or the book better. I enjoyed both equally. Of course they were somewhat different, but the book had the same information as his lecture. I love his positive attitude and how, even with being sick and close to death, he makes it seem as if he’s fine with it. I think it would be a good idea for everyone to read this because I think it is so meaningful, and teaches you how to be grateful.
The amount of books I’m reading now is better, I’m reading two still, but I think I am just going to stick with one until I finish it.
See you tomorrow! Jillian
Hi Mrs. Drance,
ReplyDeleteI forgot to talk to you about the ending of THE BEACH HOUSE, by James Patterson. I absolutely loved that book. It was such a page turner. Throughout the story I was wondering if Barry Neubauer was ever going to get caught. I would tell you my favorite part, but I don't want to ruin the ending for anyone who hasn't read it! It was such an amazing book and I would recommend it to anybody because of the wide range of events that take place.
What I found interesting about this book was that most stories have a climax and then a resolution following shortly after. This book in particular seemed to not have a resolution until the very last few chapters which created so much suspense. My on-deck book is BEACH ROAD, also by James Patterson. I love his writing and I am planning to read many books by him in the future!
Linda=)
Mrs. Drance,
ReplyDeleteOh, I'm glad that you like it! I know exactly where you are in the book. It's so sad but so good. I love how he starts the book in the middle of the sense. It gets you hooked right away.
The GOSSIP GIRLS series i started and it's exactly like the show (which i happen to love). So it's going good. They are such mean girls, your right about that, but i find it humorous how some girls actually want to follow Blair, the worst of all the characters, around. It's pathetic if you ask me.
- cat=]
Jillian! I am so proud of you that you took the initiative to spend time watching the video. I haven't seen it; I'm such a mush I might blubber all over my keyboard (strange, but true). I may someday, though, when I get away from appreciating all the blessings in my life because I agree with you; in the face of death, he had dignity and his positive attitude was remarkable. May Steve Pausch be a role model to us all.
ReplyDeleteOn another note, I am happy that the strategy appears to be working better; let me know if you feel more comfortable reading two at a time or if you find that finishing one before the other works better. However, this might prove difficult when we are reading a book for class and when you're reading your IR book. Just let me know what's up.
Also, I appreciate your dedication to posting and am enjoying our online conversations.
Enjoy your three day weekend.
Mrs. Drance
Linnie! Hi. I'm so glad that when you tried a new genre and author, you fell in love. With the writing. Not James Patterson. Or maybe you did? Who knows? (just joshin'). When someone suggested that I read BEACH HOUSE, I was somewhat of a snob, thinking, "Am I really going to get something out of this lightweight read?" Well, I did. I LOVED the setting and that I could picture myself in places where his characters interacted (you might also want to read PLUM ISLAND, by Nelson DeMille, because that too is set locally.) The quick pace, the suspense was wonderful. However, I didn't really believe the ending. I felt that there were too many coincidences or that I had to hold my "suspension of disbelief" too long. I don't know...maybe I am being a SNOB. Anyway, am I totally off base? Let me know.
ReplyDeleteHave a wonderful weekend and thank you for being so dedicated to make this blog a success.
Peace,
Mrs. Drance
P.S. Let me know if THE BEACH ROAD is any good. Also, his book, THE LAKE HOUSE, didn't strike as strong of a cord in many local readers. That doesn't mean that it isn't good...it probably is to people who live in the area where THE LAKE HOUSE is set, but you never know until you read it.
Take care.
Ms. D
Cat, about starting in the middle of a scene! Well, I coach kids on how to do monologues. Anyway, last weekend one kid played Shylock from Shakespeare's A MERCHANT OF VENICE. Anyway, we talked about the piece and decided that the monologue (a speech) really started in the middle of a "fight," or, in this case, Shylock defending himself. Anyway, when he performed the monologue again, well, it was so much more engaging. So, there you go. Starting in the middle all around seems to work well. Perhaps you can consider this in your own writing!
ReplyDeleteOn another note, what are the names of the characters in GOSSIP GIRL? I always wanted to be seen as Serena, but I'm as far away from looking like her as Oprah Winfrey is from looking like Beyonce! Who's the cool kid's sister from the West side? I probably would have been cast as her. Who do you think you would be chosen to play, or who would you like to play, or if this is too personal, you can tell me in class.
Let me know what you think of these characters as the book progresses. I'll keep you posted about mine.
It's cool how you know exactly where I am in the book...I've gotta get a move on it!
Have a great weekend, Cat.
Mrs. Drance
Mrs. Drance,
ReplyDeleteI'm not to sure about who you mean when your referring to the cool kid's sister from the West side. Maybe you mean Blair? The stuck you girl, who's one of the protagonist, along with Serena. Or do you mean Jenny Humphry. The one who's going out with Nate? Either way they all are great characters.
If i had to pick one to be, it would be the Serena in the middle of the series. I wouldn't want to be her in the end or the beginning because she turns bad to the end, and in the beginning she is in Blair's shadow.
Oh, and by the way, I finished way more of the book then I was planning on! =]
Dear Mrs. Drance,
ReplyDeleteI FINALLY HAVE FOUND SOME TIME TO READ! THANK GOD FOR MARTIN LUTHER KING JR!! Anyways, i finished Running With Scissors and even had time to watch the movie afterwords. I can't even start with that book, it's so bizarre. The weird details surprise me all the time. I found it very funny, considering pretty much all the characters in the book were INSANE. THe movie was terrible though, i wanted to just kick myself for wasting two hours. I should have just been satisfied with the book. My favorite quote from the entire book is when Dr. Finch says to Augusten "Where's your sense of adventure?" (referring to when Augusten didn't want to go to school, so the Dr. said to stage an attempt at suicide so he wouldn't have to go). Augusten at first said he wasn't going to do it but then changed his mind and gained a little "adventure" in him. This idea simply shows the chaotic mess of events throughout the whole book. It almost gave me headache thinking about some of the disorder going on throughout the memoir. But anyways, i am now reading Family History by Dani Shapiro. It's a page turner, and i'm almost done with it. I love the novel so far because it gives me suspense within plain things such as family. The author puts the book where Rachael tells a story of the past of how happy she is, and then she'll go back to the present and leaves the reader with descriptions of problems going on, but you have to keep reading the past to understand what is going to happen in the present. Let me get back to reading! Hope you had a nice weekend, see you tommorow.
Sincerely,
Kate <3
Mrs. Drance-
ReplyDeleteThe reptile book is awkward because its very profound and well-researched. However, entertaining the idea that the world is run by alien reptiles is a little weird. The man that wrote the book, David Icke, is actually very intelligent and articulates his point passionately. I like the book, but I don't care about the theme of the story. The entire reason the author wrote the book was to enlighten people with information that they would be enslaved without knowing. However, I could care less. I really don't care if reptiles rule the world. I don't even care if they plan on enslaving humanity. I think it'll be pretty cool to watch. I hope Obama is a reptilian humanoid, so we can speed this whole process up.
-Mark
Cat, I meant Jenny. The one harrassed by the boy at the dance in the first book. I AM DEVASTED TO HEAR THAT SERENA TURNS BAD BY THE END OF THE SERIES! Where's hope in the universe?
ReplyDeleteWhere are the people who do what's right succeed? Why does it feel that everyone turns "bad?" I know that this is not true, but I'm really concerned about the message being sent by the media to you young folk.
What makes Serena turn bad?
And, is it because you like what you're reading...is it that what makes you read more?
Thanks for posting.
See you later,
Mrs. drance
Ahhhhhhh! The "d" isn't capitalized! take me out back and shoot me! AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!
ReplyDeleteKate,
ReplyDeleteYou really have a terrific work ethic. However, do not feel that having seen the movie and finding it "not good" is a waste of time. Because, what you're doing, is comparing the two different forms in which the story is told and seeing whether or not the film was true to the book. You are exercising your critical and analytical thinking sills. So, what was it about the move that bugged you?
On another note, judging from your description fo Dr. Finch, what he told Augusten, well...HE SHOULD HAVE HIS LICENSE REVOKED! Completely irresponsible, that man. I mean, how can you tell someone who is not mentally well to engage in self-destructive behaviour?!
Who do you think might like the book you're reading now? Maybe you can pass the title along.
Thanks, Kate, for being so dilligent. I really see you starting to grow in how you respond, meaning you're getting right to what's important without my having to ask many leading questions.
Way to go!
Mrs. Drance
P.S. My weekend was relaxing; we celebrated Mr. Drance's birthday.
Mark, very thoughtful response. When you right I feel that I can see your brain working. Very cool. Just tell me what you mean when you write "speed this whole process up?"
ReplyDeleteI have an idea, but I want to make sure that I'm understanding you correctly.
Thanks,
Mrs. D
Mrs. Drance,
ReplyDeleteSerena i was upset about to. I mean she didn't start out good in the book either, we'll at least in the movies. She eventually turns back around though. She just slips out of place for a little while. Serena has the most common sense out of the girls in the series, along with Vanessa, Dan's girlfriend in the first three books.
The reason Serena turns bad for a bit is due to the fact that her parents get divorced, and her and her boyfriend break up. When they break up, all these rumors are spread and make Serena look horrible, which she never was, so it eventually gets to her and makes her out to what the rumors said.
It's not even that its the fact that I really enjoy the books, yes that's a major part but that's even it. This blog is helping me a lot as well. I don't know what it is but this makes me want to read more.
Mrs Drance,
ReplyDeleteThe author of the book, David Icke, thinks that the reptiles are trying to enslave humanity. So by "speed this whole process up" I meant I hope they just get it over with already.
-Mark