Welcome to 10H!

Welcome to 10H!

Thursday, September 19, 2013

Well, Where the Heck Were We?

Not gonna lie, last year was hairy.  Not literally, but hectic enough that Read235 went dormant. Sigh....  So, I invite you to come and post about your favorite reads, your least favorite reads, and those books or Nooks you can't wait to get your fingers on.

First assignment of the year...tell me how it's going.  Uh, concerning your independent reading lives.  Clue us into something memorable, a new discovery, a profound insight.  You pick.  Just INTEREST us.  Ok?

Here's an example:

I was thinking about The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks, considering Henrietta's children's difficulties possibly stemming from the too-close to home shared gene pool.  Was Deborah bi-polar?  Skloot said that Henrietta's eldest daughter had been diagnosed as clinically depressed among other health conditions.  And, then, what about Day's sister who was sent away because of her "idiocy"? Then, their brother who had severe problems with rage....  How much of their mental and emotional challenges were due to their too-close-for-comfort genes?  Anyway, just a thought.

What are yours?

Post by Wednesday, September 26th.  Thanks!

88 comments:

  1. The book I'm currently reading is The Dark River. This book by John Twelve Hawks combines fantasy, with real life situations. It is about two brothers who have an ability to release their "light" which is similar to a soul, from their bodies and travel into different realms. People with this ability are called Travelers. There are also the Tabula. The Tabula is a group of normal, power hungry people, who love control, and hate Travelers.

    Here's the scary part.

    The Tabula have access to every thing. All documentation ever. Everything you've ever written, every account you've ever made, every grade you've ever gotten. They even know every store you've ever walked into, regardless of whether or not you bought anything, because they have access to all security cameras, and the most advanced facial recognition software.

    I know this book sounds like a read for the anxious, paranoid, and just plain crazy, but it points out some very real and very worrying possibilities.

    If this blog is connected to our school, and our class, and our names are on the posts, how hard can it be for someone to find?
    Now I'm not saying that an internet presence is bad, or that this is a dangerous place to be posting opinions, but in this society, caution is invaluable .

    The more I read The Dark River the more I think about real life studies I've seen. I recently saw on the news that they've actually developed facial recognition software that brand name stores have been using to market to individuals the moment they walk into a store. Before an attendant can even say hello, a computer has already recognized your face and recommended sales based on prior purchases.

    Maybe I am paranoid, but that seems a little freaky to me.

    The other thing that I find myself more and more aware of through this independent reading endeavor is the danger of the internet. In the book, staying "off the grid" is a form of survival for the Travelers. It may not be as vital for us, but there are still many dangers out there. Our society, and our generation especially, has lost touch with the importance of our internet presence. As we discussed in class today, we can be found, by anyone. Colleges, employers, family, friends, classmates, not always people we want to be found by.

    I don't mean to sound like a teacher, and I know that I'm preaching to the choir, but it's a truth that I simply can't push out of my mind.

    So sorry for the long post. I hope that you'll all find my thoughts relevant. Perhaps I'm not the only one who thinks like this! Thanks for reading :)

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    2. Linda, your book is timely and unnerving. A suspenseful read, I gather, from your thoughtful, inviting response.

      Ok, class? Weigh in. :)

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    5. Jenny and Carley, you both need to provide specific examples to support your thinking. Why was the book interesting to you, Jenny. And you, Carley. What are the good points? Jenny, why would Linda find this City of Bones interesting? Jenny, think about why you said you're not really sure...you're contradicting yourself. Do you mean to say something else? These posts seem rather rushed. Please redo for credit. Thanks.

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    6. Jenny and Carley, thanks for your suggestions! I've actually been trying to get around to reading The Maze Runner series for quite a while. I'm a little more skeptical about The City of Bones because I have heard some crazy diverse reviews. I will check them out though!

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    7. Linda, The Dark River seems to be a very thought provoking book, based on your response, and I recommend you try The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones. Imagine living your whole life as a girl with an overprotective mother, a deceased father, and an uncle that is always there for you. Now imagine coming home one night to a destroyed house, your mother missing, and your uncle telling you to leave him alone. This is what happened to Clary in The City of Bones . She lived her whole life believing she was human and the next thing you know, she finds out she is a demon hunter. Throughout the book you discover that the life she thought she had was all a lie in a heart wrenching adventure. I really recommend you trying this book because I would love to hear what you think. Similar to your book, it is very thought provoking. Also, it is similar to The Hunger Games because their is a strong, independent, female main character. I hope you try this book because I would love to hear your thoughts.

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    8. Hey Linda!
      I had a few questions. I really liked your analysis of the book, and it sounds amazing! Although, as someone who has a hard time following many, many things, was this book at all confusing to read? And if the Tabula can find out all this information about you, can they, metaphorically, watch every move you make as you're doing it? This question seems a bit silly, but it makes me really interested in the book. I'll be sure to check it out, either way.

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    9. Linda,you should definitely try The Maze Runner,it has some very similar situations to your book,The Dark River, it may not be as relate-able because of the male protagonist, but I still think you'll enjoy it very much. Thomas, in The Maze Runner wakes up not remembering anything but his name. His memory has been wiped, and his whole environment is controlled. Without giving too much away, the story has some very similar circumstances to your books, the watching and controlling and manipulating. How people can see everything about Thomas's life. I think that you'll really enjoy The Maze Runner, and I'd like to see if I can get around to The Dark River soon!

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    10. Rebecca, I don't think it's too hard to follow, although it switches point of view from one character to to the next almost every chapter. At one point or another just about every character gets his/her own chapter, but that makes things more interesting in my opinion. Even though point of view changes so often, the plot is pretty straight forward. As for your second question, yes. There is actually one part in which one character who works for the Tabula watches a girl shop from one store to the next, all day long. It's honestly a little bit frightening.

      Carley, thanks so much for the review, they sound like awesome books. As for reading The Dark River yourself, just know that it's the second of a series. I know I personally hate it when I accidentally read books out of order. (I own the first two if you would like to borrow them.)

      And last but not least, Jenny! I must say I was honestly sort of against reading The Mortal Instruments series, but you make them sound incredibly interesting. They are definitely going on the list!

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    1. "So realize that this book isn't for the weak of heart" (Michael). HAHAHAHHAHAHAHAH

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    2. Have you ever been reading a book and realized," This is the best book I've ever read"? Well that's basically how it feels to read A Game of Thrones series by George R. R. Martin. Now you're probably thinking," Well he's probably just exaggerating," let me stop you there because Ill say it again, this is by far THE BEST book series I have ever read. Now this dynamite production of a book follows the wars raging between the powerful lords of Westeros. Now what's truly bodacious about this book isn't just the many complex characters, the bloody battles or the back-stabbing betrayals but the ways the characters interact with each other in a way I have never seen before be it in a book or television show. You never know what's going to happen next in this book because early on you realize that no one is safe. You have George Martin sitting at his desk lopping heads off right and left. So, in a majority of books you have your favorite main character fighting against innumerable odds but surprise, he saves the day. This is not the case in A Game of Thrones where there is a good chance that your favorite supposedly "untouchable" character will perish. So realize that this book isn't for the weak of heart (Michael) but those wanting to journey into a book series of a lifetime.

      Now the reason I love this book series is in part because of the epic quotes. You're minding your own business when all of a sudden BANG! like a bat out of hell George R. R. Martin adds a quote that makes you put your book down and realize the significance of what just took place. An example of this is when the lord of Winterfell, Ned Stark, is being held captive by the petty lord of the three sisters (a group of Islands) The Maester (a scholar) that served the king urged the lord to surrender Ned Stark to King Aerys II because he was sure to triumph over the rebel leader Robert Baratheon. To this Ned looks him in the eye and says, "The only thing certain in this world is winter". This might seem an average quote but when you reach this point and realize what this character has gone through (no spoilers here!) you appreciate the realism of the statement. Another fearsomely strong quote made by Tyrion Lannister (A dwarf) to the bastard of Ned Stark, Jon Snow,“Never forget who you are, for surely the world won’t. Make it your strength. Then it can never be your weakness. Armor yourself in it, and it will never be used to hurt you.” Now this is coming from a man that even though he is the son of one of the most powerful lords in Westeros but because he's vertically challenged he's been spit on his whole life. Jon Snow falls into a similar position because since he's a bastard he's treated as a second-class Stark. What Tyrion is saying can be interpreted many ways. I took it that you have to realize that the world is a hateful place and if you let a handicap get in your way you're going to get left behind fast but if you acknowledge your handicap you can use it to help yourself. I realize that might not seem to make too much sense but that's how I felt about it.

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    3. I'll have you know Jack that the book I'm reading is far more intense than yours, and I do not have a faint heart. It makes me a little sad to be honest that you address this on an English blog where it is open for everyone to see, when you really have just told me I had a "Faint Heart" in private. Just try to be a little more considirate next time champ.

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    4. I would like to make an apology to Micheal Sean Logan for the crass and unnecessary statement concerning his strong and valiant heart. I realize now that I was out of line and possibly even a little jealous of Micheal's ability to play trumpet and get high grades in chemistry.
      Sincerely,
      John Daniel Xavier Corcoran

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    5. Boys, I'm happy to see how you worked this out. People, I'm sure Jack only meant his joke in good fun; however, we don't know how others may react. Michael, I am proud of you for addressing Jack, and Jack for your gentlemanly reply. You are both lion-hearted in my eyes.

      Now, about your book, Jack. Forgive me with a reference to TV, but is this a TV series as well? I prefer books because my mind makes up a terrific story and sometimes I like how I put elements together than another creative team. However, on the other hand, I am open to other perspectives, from which I learn. Intriguing, it is to see a totally different take on the scene that you've read and pictured a different way, but it works nonetheless! Your book seems VERY suspenseful and I would love to get my hands on a copy....

      Michael, what are you reading?

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    6. Boys, I'm happy to see how you worked this out. People, I'm sure Jack only meant his joke in good fun; however, we don't know how others may react. Michael, I am proud of you for addressing Jack, and Jack for your gentlemanly reply. You are both lion-hearted in my eyes.

      Now, about your book, Jack. Forgive me with a reference to TV, but is this a TV series as well? I prefer books because my mind makes up a terrific story and sometimes I like how I put elements together than another creative team. However, on the other hand, I am open to other perspectives, from which I learn. Intriguing, it is to see a totally different take on the scene that you've read and pictured a different way, but it works nonetheless! Your book seems VERY suspenseful and I would love to get my hands on a copy....

      Michael, what are you reading?

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    7. Yes HBO has come out with three seasons so far. It seems to be a pretty well put together tv show and the actors are great too.

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    8. Hey Jack I really enjoyed reading your response. I have the first two books of this series. I am going to read these after my dad is done reading them. I know a little about this series from what you've told me. This response gave me a little idea of what im going to read. Thank you Jack
      -Breck Cannon Walters

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  3. So... I've just read Hamlet (For like the umpteenth time, [I adore this play...] and among other things currently as well, but I've something actual to say about Hamlet as opposed to The Restaurant at The End of The Universe) and in Act IV scene iii Hamlet makes a rather interesting point in his madness. When asked where Polonius is, he tells his uncle that he is "At supper." but not at supper where he is eating, but instead, where he is eaten (By maggots...). Now, Hamlet says "... Your worm is your only emperor for diet: we fat all creatures else to fat us, and we fat ourselves for maggots: your fat king and lean beggar is but variable service,-- two dishes, but to one table: that's the end." This for me has two meanings: First, do something remarkable. For at the end we are all the same, that is in fact also the second meaning, We are all the same and we all end up the same place in the end. It doesn't matter whether or not you believe in heaven or an after life, but, to quote Queen Gertrude (Also from Hamlet.)"... Thou know'st 'tis common,-- all that lives must die..." (Act I scene ii) Why cast others down if we are all the same in the end? A king is no better than a peasant and a servant no better than a knight...

    I realize how heavy that is, but when you look at Hamlet, the play is really heavy... Even David Tennant can't make it light... (That was a reference to the 2009 version of Hamlet done by the RSC [Royal Shakespeare Company] [I have it on DVD if you want to borrow it, Mrs. Drance] in which David Tennant plays Hamlet, and he plays on Hamlet's madness, adding a certain lightness to the still heavy tragedy.]

    So, that was my two cents...

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    1. Hudson, your two cents is worth might much. Heavy, yes, but profound, yes. And, YES!, I would love to borrow your favorite HAMLET. My favorite HAMLET is the Kenneth Brannagh version. Check out Olivier's, as in Sir Lawrence...tell me what you think.

      Ok, others, what do you think?

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    2. Hey Hudson, after reading the first quote a few times (you know how I am with Shakespeare), I have a question. How did you come up with your first interpretation? I'm not refuting it, simply curious. Maybe I missed something in my analysis of it... However, I do agree with you on the second part, that we all end up at the same place in the end (I also agree with this without particularly believing in an afterlife. Whatever, irrelevant personal fact.) Even though we all end up at the same place, doesn't mean that what we do while we are alive is equal, though. For example, you have two people, a mad criminal and a scientist who discovered the cure for cancer. If the criminal kills the scientist, and then himself, they will both end up in the same place (The ground, heaven, hell, whatever), but that doesn't mean their time on earth was spent equally. One hurt people, while the other saved them.
      Sorry for the weird, and very unlikely example....

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    3. Christina.
      I got my first interpretation I suppose, not necessarily directly from the quote, but just a general sense I get from it... The fact that, possibly, all that happens after we die is we rot 6 feet under being eaten by maggots, so do something remarkable, leave a legacy. Not just a ravenstone and a maggot eaten corpse...

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    4. Hi Hudson it's Mike. Wow I think it is really cool that you're reading plays. I find it really I interesting that you enjoy them and are able to analyze them really well. If there are any more good plays you recommend, please let me know because I may want to try reading one. Thanks!

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    5. Hey Hudson, I am also a bit intrigued by your first interpretation. Although I've never read Hamlet and don't know the surrounding circumstances, I have to disagree with your interpretation. From the quote you gave us alone I actually get quite the opposite sense. It seems more that he is saying that we all have one purpose, to die and become food, and it doesn't matter how remarkable we are before that (I apologize for the morbidity). I don't mean to disrespect or refute your opinion, but I feel we'd all be liars if we agreed all the time.

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  4. I am currently reading An Abundance of Katherines by John Green. I have read several other of John Green’s works, and I simply had to read this one. While the other works that I have read if his have been bluntly love stories, Katherines is a novel which interweaves a subtle love plot, while giving an insight to former child prodigy, current college student, Colin’s mind.
    I have occasionally found myself wondering if practical and real situations could ever be put into a mathematical sequence or equation to see if you would be able to get a common outcome. Apparently I am not the only one who has wondered that, since Colin is spending his time on ‘The Theorem’. In The Theorem, Colin is trying to graph his past 19 relationships, all named Katherine.
    One question that I have about the book is why does he only date girls named Katherine, with that exact spelling? Also after being dumped 19 times by girls with that name, why doesn’t he try dating a girl with another name? For example, at the beginning of the novel, he meets a girl named Lindsey, whom he finds very interesting and attractive, which he openly states. However, after learning her name, he immediately dismisses her as a potential relationship.
    I find that odd, maybe I’m the only one.

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    1. I find it odd, too, and narrow-minded. Other? Your thoughts?

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    2. Hey Christina! Everybody raves about John Green's books and I have yet to read one! I wanted to know what do you think the fuss is about? Is it his style of writing or his plot lines or something completely different that I have no idea about because I haven't read any of his work? And finally, which book of his did you enjoy the best...maybe I will read it next! :)

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    3. I'm going to have to add this book to my reading list too! Also, Meagan, I think what attracts everyone to John Green's books, besides his word choice and great plot lines, is the way he makes everything deep and meaningful. In Looking For Alaska John Green plays with the idea of life and death and what happens when we die in the most casual of ways. I think it's the way he can turn the smallest things into deep thoughts.

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    4. Hey Christina.

      So, I may have an answer to why Colin seems drawn to the name Katherine. It is an Irish name that means Pure. Clear. He could be drawn to the meaning. I've never read the book, so I don't know whether or not Colin would like "Pure" or "Clear" girls (I don't exactly know what a pure or clear girl would be, so make of that what you will.) but it may be possible... Maybe.

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    5. Hey Meaghan, I think I have to agree with Victoria on what attracts people to his books. He is able to toy with some things that we might seem as trivial, or unimportant and give them such deep meanings. In Looking For Alaska John Green takes a simple cigarette and gives it much more meaning. I won't spoil it for you, so you'll have to read to find out! (It gives away a major plot line) Also, my favorite was The Fault in Our Stars . It was heart- wrenching and saddening as long as loving and warming. I definitely suggest!

      Hudson,
      To me, a pure or clear girl would A) one who abstains from alcohol and drugs. B) An honest and trustworthy girl. From the little information we get about all of his 19 Katherines, they do seem pure and clear. I never thought of it like that! So thank you.

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  5. Hi Mrs. Drance and class mates!

    The book that I am currently reading is The Scorch Trials, (Sorry I could not figure out how to italicize/underline the title!) a dystopian science fiction novel by James Dashner, which is the second of a trilogy of books called the Maze Runner. Without giving too much away, the series is about a boy name Thomas and his journey through a foreign world. In the first book, Thomas awakes in a mysterious realm which is home to 60 other teenage boys who have learned to survive in a completely enclosed envirionment. Now if this doesn't sound strange enough, the entire square enclosure is surrounded by mile and miles of maze in which creatures called grievers live. The boys have to idea what to make of where they are or what happened to the lives, but day in a day out they search the maze for answers.

    Anyway, lets get back on track. This book has really made me think in new, profound ways about what would happen to our world if some major catastrophe had struck down hard on the human race. Say one day in the future the world has broken out in nuclear war and significant portions of civilization have been blown to smithereens. How would the survivors band together? Would we loose all our advances in science and technology causing us to revert to a more primitive life, or would the information be preserved allowing us to continue our advances? Would we resort to dictatorships, or would some democratic governments live on? If you asked this to a group of people, odds our you would get very different and original ideas and i think this is what make dystopian fiction so interesting. The possibilities for compelling stories are endless, and what makes it even more interesting is that these ideas are possible. I think I may have found my new favorite genre/sub-genre!

    Well, thanks for reading and I hope you find what I said influential or interesting at the least!

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    1. Adam, I am also a big dystopian fiction fan (THG for life!) and after reading this I'm curious if you've ever heard of a book called Life as We Knew it. It's all about life after a meteor hits the moon and moves it closer to earth. It's an absolutely fascinating idea.

      Disclaimer, I really did not like the book. I thought the writing was amateur and cliche; however it is a worthy read for the plot alone. It will leave you with countless new questions, concerns, and insights.

      I will say it's a bit of a girly book, some romance and girly drama. The main character is not you're typical strong, independent, dystopian protagonist, but those things play an extremely minor role. Life as We Knew it is the first of a series, but I haven't read any others yet.

      Anyway! I thought it might be something you would be interested in, but no worries, I won't be offended if you're not, I didn't exactly give it a shining review hahaha.

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    2. Ha thanks for the response Linda! I have not heard of this book, but I will definitely put it down for consideration. Perhaps after a little research I will be able to tell whether or not this book book will be a good read for me. The idea of a rapidly approaching moon does sound interesting! Regardless, I really do appreciate the recommendation.

      And yes, I am also in love with The Hunger Games!

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    3. LOVE the Hunger Games, LOVE that you responded to Adam, Linda, LOVE your profound thoughts, Adam. Made me think of LORD OF THE FLIES (I'm "capping" to show italics...if anyone figures this out, let me know...William, Mabel...any ideas?) and the anarchy without structure. I think we would revert to a more primitive state. Who would be the Simons and Piggys of the world, I wonder? Could we have learned a lesson not to destroy those who are different, but valuable members of our society?

      Whaddya y'all think?

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    4. First off, I think it's pretty cool how you and ryan are reading the same series but you're at different points. I read the Maze Runner and thought that was pretty good but I never really got a chance to read the follow-up. After reading your entry Im thinking that I should probably start the series up again. Great entry,
      -Jack

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    5. Thanks Jack! Yes, I definitely think that you should strongly consider reading The Scorch Trials if you enjoyed reading The Maze Runner. It expands upon its dystopian fiction roots to an even greater extent and continues its themes of friendship and bravery that I loved. To be honest, I did not like it as much as The Maze Runner, but it is still a worthy read. There is also a third book in the series if you are interested called The Death Cure which I have heard to be a great addition. I'm personally going to take a break from this series and explore other literature, but I will make sure to come back.

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    6. After reading your response im really interested in reading this book. I think dystopian science-fiction could be a genre i could look into reading in the future. I agree with you in that there are so many ideas of what the world would be like if a catastrophic event occured. There are so many possibilities.

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  6. Currently, I am reading The Last Song by Nicholas Sparks for about the three millionth time- it’s one of my favorites. Each time I read it, however, this novel always seems to strike a different note in my mind. For those of you who haven’t read it (or seen the movie, which in my opinion was also extremely good) The Last Song chronicles the summer before college for a girl named Ronnie who goes to visit her estranged father in Georgia. She and her brother spend the summer reconnecting with their father following her parent’s divorce, and Ronnie also finds herself falling in love. As she builds a strong relationship with Will, her love interest, she also faces opposition towards her father because he was framed for a crime he did not commit. And to top it all off, Ronnie discovers the real reason her father wanted her and her brother Noah to visit. I don’t want to reveal too many spoilers, but I can honestly say that is a book worth reading.

    Anywho, this novel digs deep into topics that are hard to talk about, and it never fails to tug a little too forcefully on my heartstrings. The book causes me to really reevaluate my priorities, as it discusses losing a loved one and building bridges in strained relationships. Reading a novel like this teaches you to never leave something unsaid, because you never know if those are the last words you will speak. The book also delves into young love and summer romances, and for me that's is basically a must-have. So overall, I honestly think that The Last Song is a worthwhile read that will stay with you for a long time, and will also force you to rethink things that are going on in your everyday life; because as a reader, the works we choose to read should allow us to grow as individuals as we read it. And I think that’s the most important thing- if you can’t relate to it or learn from it, why bother reading it?

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    1. Glad to hear that you uncover new nuggets upon each read. The point about not leaving things unsaid is important. I remember after 9/11 I called a friend of mine's mom who lives in Dallas. Hadn't talked to her in a long time. She was worried; she was thinking of me and I wanted to let her know that I loved her although distance and circumstance separated us.

      Anyone else?

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  7. Hey Guys!
    I have been reading the Gossip Girl series for a few months now. There are at least 15 books in the series which is great because I love this series. I really enjoy the books because they are quick reads and I find that I can never put them down. I originally started reading them because i watched the TV show and it ended last year. The books are different from the show, but the characters and the setting are all the same. This is awesome because it is like the show never ended. These books are definitely different from some of the books that I have read in the past because they are definitely a bit more mature. I also really enjoy reading these books because I really admire the main character, Blair Waldorf. She is the queen bee at her high school (and a bit of a jerk) but she is sophisticated and classy; like her role model (and one of mine) Audrey Hepburn. I think that if l were to actually know Blair we would be friends because she is strong, independent and well spoken; personality traits that I look for in a person. These books take place on the upper east side in New York City, which, in a perfect world, is where i would live. So, my independent reading is going well because I love the characters and the setting in my book. I definitely would recommend these books, but just prepare yourself... they are a little scandalous!

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    1. Yes, I read the first one. I'm glad you're enjoying this series. While I can appreciate the good you see in Blair, why do you think she acts "jerkily"? I read a book this summer about Audrey Hepburn and it was said that when she trusted you enough to become a friend, she was a very good one. And, if you were an acquaintance, you were treated with respect and some distance. "Jerk" does not equal Audrey which I know you know. But, I understand your reference to her "classy" behavior. Thanks for the warning! I think you did an accurate job of describing Blair's world. Why did it go off the air, I wonder? Y'all probably know, so chime in if you do.

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    2. When I referenced Blair's "jerky" qualities, I wasn't relating those to Audrey. Blair's better qualities such as her class and elegance are what she has in common with Audrey Hepburn. When I said that Blair could be a jerk, I was talking about her jealousy and entitlement. Blair sees herself as better then everyone else and often uses her "Queen of Constance" status to bully other girls. Blair is like the Upper East Side's Regina George.

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    3. Also, I believe the show ended because it was going on for 6 seasons and the actors had movies and other shows that they wanted to move on to. It wasn't cancelled because of content or ratings...because it was obviously one of the best shows of all time.

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    4. This series sounds interesting and I am contemplating reading them! I was wondering if watching the show had anything to do with the books... if I haven't seen it will the books confuse me? Or does the book series start by introducing the characters, since I am unaware of the plot.

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    5. The books were written a few years before the series and take a completely different path then the show so you will not be confused by the books. I definitely would recommend this series to someone of your maturity and sophistication Jennifer.

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    6. Thank you Meaghan, I appreciate the response. I shall give them a try

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  8. I'm reading a John Green book, only this time he wrote with another author named David Levithan. It's called Will Grayson, Will Grayson, and you can tell the book is going to be about this kid named Will Grayson. In fact, there are two Will Grayson's, and, of course, they meet. This book is supposed to be funny and meaningful and thoughtful all at the same time, and it is! It actually blows my brain and the only reason I haven't finished it is because I've been busy doing less important things.

    John Green writes about Will Grayson, or at least, the first Will you meet. This Will who is so brilliantly written that you can feel everyone emotion he's feeling. All the confusion and intent to not be involved, is so there and right in your face that I love it. Also, John Green is just an amazing writer, and things he says and the way he says them really get stuck in your head. Like about ten minutes ago I was thinking and I thought, "I really hate how brown eyes are so stereotypically brown," and even though I'm pretty sure John Green has never said that I still caught myself in this trance of "omg I'm becoming John Green."

    I had never read anything that David Levithan has written, but now I want to. Will Grayson...the second Will Grayson, is so interesting and sad and amazing all at once. You have this guy who's struggling with depression and his own identity, when he falls in love with this other guy he's never met, or at least, he thinks he's never met and it's complicated. What a plot twist! (I'm not going to tell you, because that would spoil everything.) When I first read this Will I wanted to punch him in the face with sledge hammer, and now I just want to hug him until the end of time.

    One of the main differences is that one is gay and one isn't, and the book kind of centers around the sexuality of each other and others and whatnot, but it also goes much deeper than that. Even though they hardly know each other I think of them like brothers.

    Basically what I'm saying is that this book is like waking up really late at night after a really good dream or maybe even a bad one and having an epiphany about why people are they way they are.

    Also, John Green writes how he usually writes, like how I'm writing to you but ten times deeper and more thoughtful and thought provoking. david levithan writes like this. with no capitals except for EMPHASIS. (Obviously this is for character development, but oh. my. god.)

    I'm actually just totally in love with this book, and having read some of John Green's other books I'll definitely read the rest. I'll also have to read David Levithan's books because they're sure to be just as amazing.

    (This is so long and I am so sorry.)

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    1. Recently, I finished The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones, which is no doubt a page turner. This book is the first of many in the series, which is about a girl who thought she was just another human; It turns out, she was wrong. Although she wasn't aware of what she was in the beginning, the book takes you on a whirlwind of an adventure, showing you who she really is. Without revealing too many secrets, Clary (the main character) discovers she is a part of a world that has demons, vampires, werewolves, and demon hunters. She and her mother both happen to be demon hunters, much to her surprise. This story is very thought provoking because it shows how in a split second, your life can change. Clary wasn't aware of her double life, and it makes me wonder how much humans realize about what is going on around them. Don't get me wrong- clearly there aren't vampires and werewolves roaming around, but how much history wasn't recorded? There certainly are things that we don't know about the past and present, which of course leads to the future. It makes me wonder about my ordinary life and how one thing can change you forever.

      This book really was phenomenal because it was adventurous, exciting, and of course had a heart breaking ending, prioritizing reading the next book to the number one thing to do. Although the book is clearly fantasy and unreal, it had messages to relate to real life. Who knows what is going to happen in the future, or when? It really opened my eyes to the fact that a person can only control so much in their life, the rest depends on fate. This book is a must read- you'll be hooked to the series without a doubt. This book lets you escape into an adventure while providing morals to use in everyday life.

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    2. Wow, another book that grabs my interest. Good points about control and fate. And, how happy are we, ladies, that this book's protagonist is a girl a la HUNGER GAMES. Boys, would you read this? Or, have you read this? Would you read this? Thoughts?

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    3. Rebecca, a lengthy response is better because we can hear you speak and better understand your thinking about your book because you are providing us with your insights. Anyway, the world has changed and I am glad that this author has the courage to have a homosexual protagonist as there are more gay people in the world that we realize. Did you, perhaps, better learn about this world view as a result of reading the book in addition to all the other nuggets you gleaned? Sounds like ANOTHER engaging read. Thoughts anyone?

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    4. Hey Rebecca, I know you were talking about this book in gym the other day, and reading this just brought back a few questions. First of all, did reading both John Green and David Levithan in the same novel get confusing at all? Constantly switching styles? Also, did having two Will Grayson's get confusing at all? Did you have trouble distinguishing the two from each other in terms of character development? (Like putting the wrong traits with the wrong Will?) Anyway, sounds like a great book that I'm definitely going to read!

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    5. Mrs. Drance,
      In response to your comment I do have to admit, this may be more of a girl oriented series. Although there is action and adventures, there of course is a heart breaking romance. Since the girl is a main character, I think its easier for girls to relate to the book. I recommend this book to anyone and everyone, however I understand that it may not be appealing to males. It is a very emotional and heart tugging book, and without giving away to much, an ending that is truly heart breaking.

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    6. Jenny, I was thinking about reading this book too. I heard it was really good from a few people, and from what you posted it's adventurous and a sci-fi book,but still has appeal to girls with the emotional aspect. I'm definitely thinking about reading this next!

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    7. Mrs. Drance,
      I did learn more about this view in the sense that I learned that how they love people is exactly the same as how heterosexuals love people, except they have many more challenges because they're seen as weird and in some cases, wrong. This isn't true, because they are the same people with the same emotions, and the book, although not necessarily emphasizing this fact, does prove it.

      Christina,
      No, it didn't get confusing. They are very distinguishable characters so it'd be hard to mix them up. They don't even meet for a long time, so you get used to each character as they are. When they switch styles it just adds to obviousness of how different they are (though they do have similar traits!). It's definitely a great book and I highly recommend it (not just because John Green but also very much because John Green).

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  9. Hey Everyone,
    I'm on the verge of finishing Will Grayson, Will Grayson, and I must say that I will have to add it to my long list of favorites. I really enjoy how John Green and David Levithan decided to write this book. Each author wrote their own version of Will Grayson, in alternating chapters, and then their worlds collide. I know- genius! In this high school love story featuring Will Grayson x2, you will find yourself completely entangled in the lives of each character. Both authors have you feel the happiness, excitement, anger and pain that the characters feel. The plot, humorously written, also includes many twists that I would love to share with the rest of you but I wouldn't want to spoil the book for everyone. However, you can believe me when I say that this book will have you saying "omg". Now, I can write here all day and tell you all how much I love this book and it's witty sense of humor but the best advice I have is to read the book yourself.
    By the way, does anyone know of any other good John Green books? I recently read Looking For Alaska, which was phenomenal, and I'm looking for a good book to borrow from the library. Thanks!

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    1. Victoria, I have a few for you! :) Any suggestions, people? Another question...would boys enjoy this book? Support your opinion with three solid examples. Thanks!

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    2. Hey Victoria, I'm currently reading another John Green book. (I read Looking for Alaska over the summer and thought it was phenomenal as well.) Anyway, the one I am reading is An Abundance of Katherines (hope that worked) and I can tell you that it certainly lives up to John green standards, at least for me. The characters are highly developed and continue to grow through the novel. I'm also almost done with it, and I own it, so if you would to borrow my copy, feel free! Another John Green book I fell in love with is The Fault in Our Stars. It is extremely sad, so beware! (I have this one too if you want it)

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    3. Ouch! I read The Fault in Our Stars over the summer and it was heart wrenching! Which would be the "Ouch" (Not towards any of you!) The Fault in Our Stars has been my only John Greene experience, but Will Grayson, Will Grayson Sounds like a must. I am so completely fascinated by the idea of two authors writing one book!

      As far as suggestions go, I read The Fault in Our Stars in one night. Which was a really awful idea because I had work the next day and didn't sleep at all, but it was so worth it! And the next day I read it a second time because I was so into it. However I must say, if you're uncomfortable with crying, and I mean really crying, avoid this book at all cost.

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    4. Thank you Christina and Linda for your feedback. The Fault In Our Stars sounds like a book I should consider reading. Mrs. Drance, I do believe that boys will be able to enjoy this book as well as girls. John Green and David Levithan wrote the book in a way for guys and girls to relate; however, it also depends on the reader. Will Grayson, Will Grayson is written from the perspective of two 15 year old boys so that also might make the characters more relatable to the guy audience. To add on, while this book may touch on "young romance"-which may or may not be an interesting reading topic for boys- it's also about friendship which attracts audiences of both genders.

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    5. Hey Victoria! I didn't know Will Grayson x2 was fifteen! I thought they were older! It makes me sad that I didn't realize that. Also, as Linda suggested, you should definitely read The Fault in Our Stars and not just because they're making it into a movie. Like Linda said (also) with the crying, if you cried when you read Looking For Alaska, which I did, then you'll cry just as much and probably more when you read it. I'd offer to lend you the book if it wasn't for the fact that I bought it on my iPad and I kind of really need it to, you know, read other John Green books and watch vlogbrothers and all that good stuff.

      Anyway, now that I'm completely off track, did you like Will Grayson, Will Grayson? I mean, really like. Like, love. Because I loved it and I need someone to talk about how much I love it to. (Not that I don't already talk to you about it.) I'm sure you did, and I really hope you get to read tfios before the movie! You'll love it.

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  10. Well hello fellow human beings! I am currently reading Sphere by Michael Crichton. At first glance it seems to be those generic science fiction novels. You know what I mean; "Oh! ALIENS! Suddenly, TIME TRAVEL!". But Michael Crichton somehow twisted this generic plot into something scary and mysterious. All the characters are pitted against each other, due to the mysterious sphere, that allows them to create manifestations with their imagination. Suddenly, all the characters are put to the test. Harry, a serious and straightforward mathematician, passes out initially but recovers control of this "power" the sphere entitled him. Beth, vulnerable, masculine, and thirsty for power, activates a series of timed explosives, determined to kill everything. Norman, a psychologist, feels in control but oddly oblivious to emotions, decided to leave Beth and Harry to die with the explosives at first. These three characters are like puppets under a mysterious entity only known as "Jerry", a powerful and manipulative unseen creature released from the sphere. This book is absolutely incredible at creating multiple conflicts that somehow join together at the end

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    1. William, your diction is laudable. Anyway, while I am not a sci-fi fan, I have to say that all y'alls' posts about sci-fi books as me changing my mind! I'm going to open a new mind set, thanks to you! Anyway, yes, SPHERE is an accessible sci-fi book that again shows humanity at its worst and ultimately best. Do you see how many "survival of the fittest" themes inherent in sci-fi/fantasy? Hmmmmm...do we have to go into another world to see what how humanity acts in this world? Interesting. What do you think?

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    2. I have to agree with Mrs.Drance, for someone who is not a sci-fi fan I am quite interested in this book. I like the idea of their conflicts coming together. I can relate it to Will Grayson, Will Grayson when both of their conflicts and lives intersect. Thank you for sharing this book, I lookforward to someday reading it!

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    3. Hello Will.

      Unlike my comment predecessors, I am a huge fan of Sci-Fi.

      So, they can create these manifestations with their imagination. It could just be the way I am reading this, but, are these manifestations 'tangible'? Or are they simply a thing that seems real but is in fact, actually part of their imagination?

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    4. Hello to my fellow thinkers above me! I'm just her to rave about how great of a genre science fiction can be. As Will mentioned, the stereotypical "'Oh! ALIENS! Suddenly, TIME TRAVEL!'" sci-fi novel can quickly turn people away from the genre, as it would to me, but they can be much much more than that. Some authors', like James Dashner, abilities to take you away into a completely foreign world is just mesmerizing. Kind of speaking to what Mrs. Drance mentioned above in her post, its is very interesting to see how themes from other worlds can transfer so fluidly into our own. If you do not like science fiction I would definitely recommend you give it another chance!

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  11. I am almost done with The Glass Castle by Jeannette Wells. The book is a memoir of nearly her entire life , from childhood, to just before writing this book. The story overall is very bleak; her father is an alcoholic and her parents can't hold jobs, despite having a family to support, so they have to keep moving. However, Jeannette seems to knuckle down to look out for herself, her brother, and her sister.

    Recently, I've been comparing my life to Jeanette's a lot; it's really eye-opening. She was so independent and determined,despite being a kid. The first example of this would be when she was cooking on a stove by herself when she was three (even though she ended up setting her dress on fire and getting serious burns, medical expenses causing the family to flee for the first time). Most recently, she made braces for herself. Based on my experience having braces, it's a long and complicated process, but she made them without any help from either a book or a person. Through trial and error, Jeannette used rubber bands and wire to straighten her teeth and fix her overbite. In addition, she had a job and was balancing the family's budget at the time!

    These really made me think of how easy my life is; I have caring parents who are there for me, a steady home, and more. Jeannette is really tough and has what might be described as "grit". Reading this book has made me want to work harder in my own life, to show myself that if Jeannette could thrive, so could I. Jeannette, despite having a much tougher childhood than most young adults, seems to be very successful. However, I don't know how it ends (yet) so I'll have to see what happens. Part of me wants a happy ending, but another part wants the ending to be horribly sad.

    ALSO DON'T FORGET TO SIGN IN FIRST BECAUSE MY ENTRY ACCIDENTALLY GOT DELETED WHEN I DIDN'T

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    1. Thank you for your tip, Sarah. Yes, I do was inspired by Jeannette's story and was awestruck by her "grit" as well. Good tie-in, by the way. With perseverance, anything - in her case it seems, and believe us, her life was CHALLENGING! - is possible. I have the sequel HALF BROKE HORSES when you are finished.

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  12. Hello all,
    I am currently reading The Maze Runner and can honestly say it is by far the most inreguing book I have ever read. Straight from the creative mind of James Dashner, The Maze Runner is truly a literary masterpice that will keep you on the edge of your seat right from the start. The main character, Thomas, awakens in a mysterious metal room, and can not recall anything from his past. He doesn't know who his parents are, or where he is. He doesn't know who brought him here, or what he is doing in a dark elevator, slowly ascending into who knows where. All he knows is that his name is Thomas.

    Soon, Thomas will discover that he is in the heart of a giant maze, filled with monsters known as Greivers. These deadly beasts have stingers, and once your are stung, you begin the process known as the changing. This horrific process is excruciatingly painful and Thomas witnesses the changing of a boy on his first day. However, the Glade, or the heart of the maze where Thomas and his other teenage companions are, is protected by giant stone walls, over 100 feet tall! Thomas soon learns that all the kids there, including him, have one job: Escape. Will Thomas and his friends make it out alive? Only time can tell.

    When I read this book, I can't help but think, what if that was me? What if I woke up in a mysterious elevator, with no memory of my past? What if I were trapped in the middle of miles upon miles of tretcherous maze, with people I don't even know? What if... Anyway, that's just something I like to think about while I read. I find that by putting myself in the Thomas's shoes, so to speak, I can better understand his emotions and him as a person. This helps me get a deeper interpertation of the text, and I enjoy reading this way.
    So basically, I thoroughly reading this fantastic destopian fiction book. It is excelently crafted and an exciting read. I highly reccomend this book to everyone. I promise you will enjoy it.

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    1. Good job diving in as the character? Gets my adrenaline running when I put myself in the protagonist's shoes, so to speak? These nasty sci-fi creatures remind me of other sci-fi creatures. What were those horrible soul-suckers in Harry Potter? Or in Dune, wasn't there a painful experience? What about vampires? What is all this pain and soul-sucking telling us? The future sounds like a scary place! Please help me out with the names. Thanks!

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    2. Well, in this book, not all kids are trapped in a maze and forced to find their way out. Only certain kids are taken and placed in this maze for unknown reasons. The Greivers are horrible monsters that can infect anyone within the range of their stinger. The soul-suckers from Harry Potter, Dementors, can kill people by giving them the "Kiss of Death", in which the persons soul is taken by the Dementor. Vampires have a taste for human blood, and infect humans by biting them, usually through the neck. All these sci-fi creatures have one thing in common. They are deadly, and are used to scare other characters. For example, many teens in the the heart of the maze are afraid to leave, because they know about the deadly creatures awaiting them outside. In Harry Potter, the Dementors are used in Azkaban, a prison for the deadliest creatures alive. The Dementors, much like the Grievers, trigger fear in the prision. This fear causes many people to resist the temptation to break out. Vampires also cause fear to rise in villages. All these creatures strike fear in everyone around them, and can be used to contain people in a prision or maze. I believe this is the purpose of these characters. This pain and soul sucking is meant to strike fear and emphasize the seriousness of the situations to the reader.

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  13. I am currently reading Yankee Miracles by Ray Negron and Sally cook. I enjoy sports so this is a book om my taste and im a huge Yankee fan. This book tells the story of Ray Negron and his life in baseball and how some of the greats impacted his life. Its very interesting how he became associated with the Yankees. George Steinbrenner the owner of the Yankees found young Ray spray paintin graffiti on the stadium and he made Ray be a bat boy instead of turning him into the police to pay off his crime. This is just some backround on the author i gave to you. As a big Yankee fan this book just gives you insight on the Yankees and the clubs succses. It shows why their so good and how they do what they do. It show what happens behind the scenes and shows what some of the greatest players in Yankee history were like. I like learning about the greats like Thurman Munson(a great catcher). Ray Negron explains the game after Thurman's tragic death in a plan crash and how emotional it was and he tells you about Thurman Munson. You don't have to be abig fan of sports or baseball to like this book, but it is enjoyable to read as big Yankee fan. Im looking foward to reading what Ray Negron has to say about more greats(A-Rod) later in this book. The story of Ray Negron just shows you never know where life is going to take you. Ray Negron was just a kid causing trouble,and then he started his life as a part of the Yankee orginization.

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    1. A happy ending! Ok, Breck, I'm a Yankee fan. In fact, when I was in grade school and junior high, my sister and I used to watch the Yankee games. I'll never forget the series against the Kansas City Royals, arch enemies at that time. The Red Sox weren't the big threat in the late seventies...but Kansas City was. We saw Thurman Munson, so sad he died, Mickey Rivers, Chris Chamblis, Reggie Jackson, Bucky Dent, Lou Pinella, and the list goes on. Great memories of childhood. Anyway, I am surprised that George Steinbrenner actually acted positively toward someone damaging his property. I thought he was a really tough guy. Guess he had a soft spot, which is good to hear, so thank you. Lastly, I'm curious to see if Negron goes into the steroids controversy. Keep us posted, Breck. Thanks.

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    2. Being a Yankee fan myself, I think this book sounds pretty good. Ray Negron certainly has an interesting life! It's cool that your reading an autobiography, because I know that is not a very popular genre among our class. I was just wondering what Ray Negron focouses on in the book besides himself. Does he do a history of the team and it's creation? Also, does he mention what was going through the coaches head when he made the decision to make Ray the bat boy? This situation sounds interesting. I look foward to hearing back from you.

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  14. So here I am, at 11:37 p.m. on what I would call a near perfect night, to tell you all about my independent reading book. It's called The Forever War by Joe Haldeman. It is a science fiction book about a human soldier, William Mandella is enscripted into the human army to fight againt the vicious alien race named the Tauruns that have attacked human colinization ships. The problem is that these Tauruaans live millions of light years away. Soon the soldiers find out that coming home may be worse than fighting these aliens. Why you might ask? It's becuase even though William and his comrades have been aging normally out by Epsilon Aurigae, where the enemy's planet orbits, they experience something called time dilation, where the people of Earth have aged by centuries. Could you imagine? All the people you knew and loved gone? The Earth as you knew it reshaped into something you can't regognize? In William Mandella's case, he returns to a world where overpopulation and inadequate rationing has led to many nations encouraging homosexuality. Unable to adjust to this new world, he re-enlists into the army and again centuries go by on Earth. When he returns he is now one of the oldest and most experienced soldiers alive on Earth. He begins to teach younger soldiers, who are mostly homosexual and have to learn 21st century english to communicate with him. Can you believe that? Can you Imangine what our world will be like if you aged one year, but Earth aged 1000? It's crazy to think about, but to me it makes sense. What about you?

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    1. Ok, y'all, these books are VERY UNNERVING. I'd freak out if everyone was wicked old, or dead, or only attracted to the same sex. Why do you think the author has introduced homosexuality into this story. Sounds like these authors want us to learn something about being gay and aging. What do you think it is? There seems to be a profound message there. Anyone?

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    2. I have to say Michael that this book does seem very interesting. I was thinking though at the point that humans could travel to other planets, why would there be overpopulation. Honestly if I was living somewhere and there were too many people Id just go to Mars and live there. Also at this point in time you'd think they'd be set as far as food goes with cell-culturing and what not. Looking forward to hearing what your thoughts
      -John Daniel Xavier Corcoran XV

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    3. THis book seems pretty cool michael. Its seems so crazy the whole time dilation thing. If that happened I dont know what i would do. Everything you knew in life and the world changed. Is this book as good as Halo 2 though?
      -Breck Cannon Walters,halo 2 is not good
      ,

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    4. This book sounds very intriguing Michael. It sounds like the author had a lot going through his mind when he wrote it. The whole idea of the "Dilation" sounds pretty scary. Just think about the soldiers that have no home to go back to on Earth! Anway, I was just wondering what these aliens are like. For example, do they have tails, fangs, or do they simply resemble humans? I look foward to finding out.

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    5. Wow. Just your summary of this book sounds amazing. I am curious to know what time period William Mandella is from. This book seems like an awesome combination of our contemporary world, and the potential dystopian society we could grow in to. It also seems like a super interesting social observation by the author, the fact that homosexuality is the encouraged way of life seems a bit daring on the author's part. I am curious to know how he handles that, does he seem to have strong opinions on the matter, do these opinions show in the way he approaches the topic in the book? I am really interested by both the Sci-fi, and the political/social aspects of this book.

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  15. Ok sorry I couldn't do this last night so it's a littlelate and i hit back on accident and it erased my whole thing so this is the second time I'm doing it now.

    Right now,I'm reading The Scorch Trials by James Dashner. It's kind of a fantasy but i think we said distopian fiction the other day in class I don't really remember. But anyway it's actually the second book in The Maze Runner Series. The first book,The Maze Runner, is about a boy named Thomas, who wakes up and doesn't remember anything except for his name. Thomas's biggest concern, however,is trying to survive. He lives in a maze with a group of other teenage boys just like him,and every day the maze moves,and there's no way out. But everything changes when Thomas shows up.

    So these books get pretty crazy with all the stuff Thomas and his friends go through. They have to fight off all these weird monsters and try to survive in basically a wasteland. The whole time Thomas and his friends have no idea what's going to happen next. Their lives are being manipulated and controlled and the only thing they can do is try to survive.

    Thomas and friends go through some really scary stuff, and I know if I was in that situation I would be scared all the time. I don't think I'd survive if I was Thomas. It makes me think about the kind of friendship that the group of boys have too, they go through some very traumatizing things together.

    So I'm almost done with this book, and I'm really enjoying. I already have the next book of the series on deck.

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    1. Don't you hate when you've written something terrific AND IT VANISHES?! Anyway, everyone, the correct spelling of dystopian is D-Y-S-T-O-P-I-A-N. Not, just you Carley, everyone remember this. Also, try to be more specific. Can you give us something that happened that is really scary that has not yet been posted? Perhaps you will further entice us to read the series. Add to this post when you've had some rest, okay? I hope your knee feels better.... Good night, everyone. xo

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    2. Well, Thomas wakes up not remembering anything but his name and surrounded by a bunch of teenage guys he doesn't know. They live in a place the boys call The Glade, surrounded by a maze that changes everyday, with huge walls that slide shut when the sun goes down. Also,there's these weird monsters, Grievers, that are like big slugs with a bunch of mechanical arms and saws and weapons coming out of them. They have to fight off and avoid these creatures when they go out in the maze during the day and if they get stung by a Griever, the person goes through the changing.The Changing happens to one boys the first day Thomas is there, and the boy goes crazy and tries to kill Thomas. Also, one of the first days Thomas is in The Glade, he gets stuck in the maze overnight with two of his friends and has to fight off Grievers and survive the night, and no one has ever survived a night in the maze before. So all these scary things that Thomas and his friends go through together really make them closer and they develop a strong bond, even though they haven't known each other long; and that's only in the first book.

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  16. Oh, Mabel, where are you...?

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  17. So, for your next assignment, please read the initial blog posts, pick at least three threads, and add your comments. I've included prompts in many cases or asked you specific questions. If I've asked you a specific question, your response to me will count as one of the three posts you are required to make. If you'd like to add more, be my guest, but three is what is required for now.

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  19. Hey how is it going guys? Im really sorry for doing this so late but i had a lot of problems trying to post in the blog.
    Well im actually currently reading The Hunger Games, i saw the movie this summer and i loved it so i wanted to read the book because usually they give you a lot more details. Well this novel by Suzanne Collins tells a story about a girl named Katniss Everdeen that lives with her mother and her little sister, Prim. Her father died in a mine explosion years earlier. Their living in a future nation called Panem and the Capitol rules 12 surrounding districts.Because those districts rebelled, each have to send one guy and girl from each district to compete against each other. And the only way to be the winner , is to survive.So her sister is the chosen one from her discrict but Katniss chooses to take her place and compete in The Hunger Games. I really recommend this book to everyone and yea thanks for reading. Abel Louro

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