I am reading Hope Was Here by Joan Bauer. A girl named Tulip is abandoned by her father and left to live with her aunt by her mother. She absolutely hates the name her mother left her with, so her aunt allows her to legally change it to Hope. Hope and her aunt, Addie, move around a lot going to different schools and working at different restaurants. Hope is constantly making new friends and then moving away from them meeting new people.
Right before Hope’s junior year of high school, her aunt and her move to Wisconsin. They are working together at the Welcome Stairways, Addie cooking and adding new things to the menu, and Hope waitressing. G.T., the owner of the Welcome Stairways has been struck with cancer, so he can use all the help he can get.
One day while the current mayor is giving a speech about why he should be reelected, G.T. decides he is going to run against him. Since G.T. has been diagnosed with cancer he is realizing everything about life that he has not realized before. Now he is noticing that he needs to make a difference in the world and all of the changes that need to be made in it. Adults and teens all try to get people to vote for G.T., but Eli Millstone, the man G.T. is running against is a liar. He makes up things about G.T. and other things in the election to get people on his side. He lies so much that people stop believing what is true.
Everything starts getting better when Addie and G.T., and Hope and Braverman, another guy from the kitchen, start to date each other. G.T.’s cancer is put into remission. He is so happy that he decides to ask Addie to marry him. They do, and the next surprise is that he asks Hope if he can adopt her. She accepts.
Right when G.T.’s friends become full of hope that he is going to win, it is announced that G.T. has lost the election. This cannot be the end of this battle. Everyone has worked too hard for G.T. to lose. I figured Eli had to have something to do with this, and he did. This left G.T. winning the election. As soon as you would think nothing could be better, G.T’s cancer gets so out of hand that the doctor says he will never pull out of it this time. Hope becomes depressed and shares one last thing with G.T. the day before his death. Everyone fills the diner with flowers the day after the funeral as a memorial. G.T.’s family and friends are depressed at first, but eventually everyone moves on with life and makes the best of things.
The theme of this book is that you should never give up and it is always important to live your life to the fullest. Some conflicts we found throughout the book were G.T. battling cancer while fighting in the election to become mayor. Things that we found as symbols are the flowers filling the diner at G.T.’s memorial, and the way Addie improves different foods already in the diner. The flowers represent G.T.’s full life, and the improvement of old foods represents a second chance or new beginning.
I feel that this is a very emotional book. G.T. getting cancer and being turned away by so many people because of it is a sad concept. Try to put yourself in other people’s shoes before you judge them. Just because someone has a disease, it should not change the way you look at them. Diseases only make a person stronger.
Friday, December 17, 2010
Friday, December 10, 2010
"Dope Sick" by Walter Dean Myers
The main character in the book, “Dope Sick,” is Lil J; he is 17 and still living at home with his mom. He is always trying to do the right thing, but the right thing never tries to do him. Lil J is growing up in the “hood” and always trying to make a quick dollar or two. He is always applying for a real job, but being an African-American male living in the ghetto, it is hard to find a steady job. His friend Ricco is a drug dealer, makes about 300 dollars a day with ease, with a little peer-pressure, he has Lil J doing a side job with him. Ricco is a drug dealer, and a thief. He “taps” the bags of heroine. And then goes for this deal. He and Lil J are high, and when the deal goes south, things get out of hand. They are dealing to an undercover cop and get him on the ground, threatening to take his life if he makes a noise. So they hand cuff him to a banister, and go to run out the back. But Ricco is tripping, he goes back, and wastes the poor guy. Running with a “hot” gun, and a bullet in his arm, Lil J finds himself in an abandoned crack house, with a dude named Kelly, (God), whom gives him the chance to changes things for the better. There are many conflicts throughout the story; the main conflict is Lil J changing his life around for the better. He constantly runs into evil such as, doping up, not knowing how to say no, putting his life in danger, and not being able to find a steady job to support his mom. But Lil J is finding the good in life, thanks to Kelly. But Lil J needs to have faith in Kelly; he is constantly questioning and doubting him. He does not truly believe that Kelly has the ability to change things around. And by Lil J treating Kelly as Judas treated Jesus, it all makes sense. He betrayed God but all the wrong doings, and finding the good in his life is like going to reconciliation for the first time. I have many likes and dislikes…The likes of the book would have to be how Lil J could be a real person, and that this situation could be happening to anyone at this exact moment, the story is life for some. A dislike of mine being the reference to drugs a lot. Although Lil J betrayed God, Kelly still accepted him for him.
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
"The Atlantis Complex" Eoin Colfer
The Atlantis Complex is the seventh book in the Artemis Fowl series. It is about a boy named Artemis Fowl who is very intelligent and belongs to a wealthy family that has had a history of criminal activity with the highly trained Butler bodyguards. In the earlier books in the series he finds out about a secret race of magic fairy people living underground with more advanced technology than humans. At first Artemis tries to gain wealth by holding an elf captive but he changes throughout the series and befriends them.
The main conflict in this book is between Artemis and a fairy named Turnball Root. Turnball is trying to break out of prison. He is full of revenge at the LEP (fairy police), which he was once part of, for locking him up. He also wants to see his human wife, but she is aged more than him because fairies live longer. At first a hijacked fairy probe attacks Artemis and He and his friend Holly do not know where it is from. The suspense builds until as they find out more about whom it is and an attack on Atlantis.
While this is happening, Artemis has been developing a disorder known as Atlantis Complex. He starts counting things, displaying obsessive-compulsive behavior, and loses trust even in his loyal bodyguard Butler. In the second stage of this psychosis he develops a second personality. Artemis has to put all this aside to face greater challenges.
If you like adventure and action than this is a great book for you. There is some humor in this book too which makes it lively. You will probably not understand this book as well if you have not read the rest of the series. It had a good plot and was exciting. I do not think it was good as some of the other books in the series because there were not as many schemes that involved complex ideas like time travel that would have made the book more interesting. A theme throughout the book and the whole series is everyone can change.
The main conflict in this book is between Artemis and a fairy named Turnball Root. Turnball is trying to break out of prison. He is full of revenge at the LEP (fairy police), which he was once part of, for locking him up. He also wants to see his human wife, but she is aged more than him because fairies live longer. At first a hijacked fairy probe attacks Artemis and He and his friend Holly do not know where it is from. The suspense builds until as they find out more about whom it is and an attack on Atlantis.
While this is happening, Artemis has been developing a disorder known as Atlantis Complex. He starts counting things, displaying obsessive-compulsive behavior, and loses trust even in his loyal bodyguard Butler. In the second stage of this psychosis he develops a second personality. Artemis has to put all this aside to face greater challenges.
If you like adventure and action than this is a great book for you. There is some humor in this book too which makes it lively. You will probably not understand this book as well if you have not read the rest of the series. It had a good plot and was exciting. I do not think it was good as some of the other books in the series because there were not as many schemes that involved complex ideas like time travel that would have made the book more interesting. A theme throughout the book and the whole series is everyone can change.
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants by Ann Brashares
The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants is a wonderful teen book. The four main girls, Carmen, Lena, Tibby, and Bridget have been best friends since they were born. Their mothers all went to maternity classes together and have known each other ever since. One day, they all realize that these one pair of pants miraculously fit all of them perfectly. Mind you that all four girls' bodies are built completely different, so this was unusual. Unfortunetly, the best friends are going different ways during their summer vacation. They get this idea to send the pants back and forth to each other throughout the summer as a way of keeping in touch with one another.
The main conflict in this story is between each girl. They are all faced with many different little conflicts in their seperate things they are doing. But, all of them try to keep in contact with their friends. They do not want to lose touch because they love each other. Even though they are busy and the pants might be the last thing on their minds, they cannot forget the ones back home that truly love them.
There are four protagonists in this story, Carmen, Lena, Tibby and Bridget. Carmen is going to South Carolina for the summer to visit her father. Her parents are divorced and her dad has started a new family. Lena goes to Greece to visit her grandparents and Tibby stays home and woorks at her job at Wallmens. Lastly, Bridget goes to a soccer camp.
The theme of the story is that you should never forget the ones that are always there for you. Even if your life gets a little crazy sometimes, be sure to know that there are always those certain people who will always be right by your side through anything.
The thing that I disliked about this book is how it was always very suspenseful and kept you thinking, maybe over thinking, all of the problems a little to much. Also, how the end the author makes you want to go and read the next books in the series.
The main conflict in this story is between each girl. They are all faced with many different little conflicts in their seperate things they are doing. But, all of them try to keep in contact with their friends. They do not want to lose touch because they love each other. Even though they are busy and the pants might be the last thing on their minds, they cannot forget the ones back home that truly love them.
There are four protagonists in this story, Carmen, Lena, Tibby and Bridget. Carmen is going to South Carolina for the summer to visit her father. Her parents are divorced and her dad has started a new family. Lena goes to Greece to visit her grandparents and Tibby stays home and woorks at her job at Wallmens. Lastly, Bridget goes to a soccer camp.
The theme of the story is that you should never forget the ones that are always there for you. Even if your life gets a little crazy sometimes, be sure to know that there are always those certain people who will always be right by your side through anything.
The thing that I disliked about this book is how it was always very suspenseful and kept you thinking, maybe over thinking, all of the problems a little to much. Also, how the end the author makes you want to go and read the next books in the series.
"Alis" by Naomi Rich
The main character Alis is faced with the choice of protecting friendship or defending her life. Alis begins the story as a rebelling fourteen year old and ends the story, a mature young adult who took charge of her own life. Her Christian Community is making her marry someone against her will and as you read her decision about what she will do is will planned. Her journey of escaping and surviving lasts two years (most of the book). Though out that time she meets interesting people who become friends and enemies, she also reunites with people you would never aspect. “Alis” is filled with themes. Alis has mature themes such as Christian community life, growing up, standing up for what you believe in, staying true, and having hope when all is lost. These are all clearly shown throughout “Alis” and most of the themes are intertwined within each other, but they are easy to recognize. Conflicts are threaded all in “Alis”. The biggest conflicts for Alis is whether to betray a love one or sacrifice herself, go along with to her parents or seek her own happiness, and do what is right for herself or do what is right for others. There aren’t a lot of obvious symbols but if you read some passages a couple times more symbols will pop out. The evil Elder is symbolic for all of the corruption and evil going on in the Christian communities, Mistress Elizabeth is figurative for the kindness and gentleness of the Communities, Luke stands for the possibility of young love, and Alis represents first rebellion and then symbolizes freedom choose your own life. I love this book, I have read many books and this by far is the best, it kept me entertained the entire time I read it. If you like rebellion, conflicts, excitement and surprises you should really read “Alis”.
"Something Wicked this Way Comes" By: Ray Bradbury
Jim Nightshade and Will Halloway are thirteen years old in Illinois, and late in October, they discover a carnival coming to town. They go to the carnival for fun, and as it ends for the day, Jim and Will meet Mr. Dark – a man covered in tattoos. Mr. Dark tells the kids to go home, but they watch him as he rides the “Out of order” carousel, which the music plays backwards and Mr. Dark steps off at the age of twelve. His partner Mr. Cooger rides the carousel too, and goes to Jim and Will’s teacher Miss Foley and pretends to be her lost nephew. Overdrawn with excitement, Jim goes back to the carnival hoping to grow old, but they then return home without the chance. That night, they fight and vanquish the witch that tries to kill them, after Will’s father Charles Halloway finds out that the carnival can only be stopped by happiness, and so Charles, Will and Jim start an epic quest that truly reflects the battles of good and evil.
It is obvious that the general, overall conflict of “Something Wicked this Way Comes” is good versus evil. The only way to defeat Mr. Dark and the unnatural carousel is by being unified and happy, for the carnival is evil. Mr. Halloway eventually humiliates the witch to death, and he and Will both laugh and dance, brining Jim back to life after he dies. Also throughout the novel, Charles Halloway is a bit depressed and insecure within himself, but he must face himself, and accept the person he is at age fifty-four.
As we look over these conflicts, you can pinpoint the themes as well. Manifestly, the main theme definitely is that good will always conquer evil. Good, happiness, and comfort are qualities much more valuable than depression, sadness, and hopelessness. Positivity is the key to a successful life, and negativity will only make your life worse. Also, Charles Halloway’s personal theme is that self discovery and comfort with yourself is important as well. Through the acts Mr. Halloway does in order to destroy the carnival, he becomes familiar and accepting of his own body, age and life. He no longer is put down about his lack of energy, and he is still willing to be happy and helpful when it comes to Will, his son.
Overall, I think I like “Something Wicked this Way Comes” more than I dislike it. Throughout the book, piece by piece the story was confusing. I put the chapters together when I was done, and the verdict is a thumbs up. Battles between pure good and pure evil interest me, and it helps me realize the importance of happiness, for I, and everyone struggles to be jovial. The chapters are nice and short, which gives me a more sense of accomplish when it comes to literary progression. However, some things I did not like. One example being how Charles Halloway delivers a long, deep, inspiring, meaningful monologue when someone asks a simple question. Maybe this disappoints me only because people usually do not talk like that in the twenty-first century. Besides that, this book is very interesting. Although the situation is not one hundred percent on my tip of obsession, the conflict is good, thus definitely being a recommendable novel.
It is obvious that the general, overall conflict of “Something Wicked this Way Comes” is good versus evil. The only way to defeat Mr. Dark and the unnatural carousel is by being unified and happy, for the carnival is evil. Mr. Halloway eventually humiliates the witch to death, and he and Will both laugh and dance, brining Jim back to life after he dies. Also throughout the novel, Charles Halloway is a bit depressed and insecure within himself, but he must face himself, and accept the person he is at age fifty-four.
As we look over these conflicts, you can pinpoint the themes as well. Manifestly, the main theme definitely is that good will always conquer evil. Good, happiness, and comfort are qualities much more valuable than depression, sadness, and hopelessness. Positivity is the key to a successful life, and negativity will only make your life worse. Also, Charles Halloway’s personal theme is that self discovery and comfort with yourself is important as well. Through the acts Mr. Halloway does in order to destroy the carnival, he becomes familiar and accepting of his own body, age and life. He no longer is put down about his lack of energy, and he is still willing to be happy and helpful when it comes to Will, his son.
Overall, I think I like “Something Wicked this Way Comes” more than I dislike it. Throughout the book, piece by piece the story was confusing. I put the chapters together when I was done, and the verdict is a thumbs up. Battles between pure good and pure evil interest me, and it helps me realize the importance of happiness, for I, and everyone struggles to be jovial. The chapters are nice and short, which gives me a more sense of accomplish when it comes to literary progression. However, some things I did not like. One example being how Charles Halloway delivers a long, deep, inspiring, meaningful monologue when someone asks a simple question. Maybe this disappoints me only because people usually do not talk like that in the twenty-first century. Besides that, this book is very interesting. Although the situation is not one hundred percent on my tip of obsession, the conflict is good, thus definitely being a recommendable novel.
"Friday Night Lights" By: H.G. Bissenger
If you like the game of football than i recommend you read the book Friday Night Lights. The theme of this book is never quit. The Permian High School football team is faced with a very difficult change ahead of them. They are faced with playing a very difficult football program that they never played before in the State Championship game. The school is built around a great football tradition. They have a winning tradition, also a tradition of being proud to wear those black and white jerseys of Friday nights! The team is told to dig deep and find in the hearts the will to play their hardest in the last game of their high school careers.
The genre of this book is sports. It is centered around a very proud football team and the students on the team. It talks about how one students questions himself about playing football or preaching the word of God. The main conflict in this story is heart. The team is asked to find the will and heart to play Permian football and to do it with pride. Friday Night Lights is the best sports book I have ever read. I highly encourage you to read this book if you like the game of football.
The genre of this book is sports. It is centered around a very proud football team and the students on the team. It talks about how one students questions himself about playing football or preaching the word of God. The main conflict in this story is heart. The team is asked to find the will and heart to play Permian football and to do it with pride. Friday Night Lights is the best sports book I have ever read. I highly encourage you to read this book if you like the game of football.
"The Problem with Paradise" by Lesley Dahl
If you're into teen love dramas, this book is for you! Casey, a teenage girl, has just been told she must spend her entire summer on an island with her father who is a researcher, her 2 brothers, and a few assistants. She will be away from her best friends and her boyfriend, Matt. She is faced with a few problems while in paradise.
The main conflict in “The Problem with Paradise” is between Casey and the fact that she has to spend the whole summer away from her friends and boyfriend. Casey is greatly affected by the conflict until a teenage boy, Jonah, an assistant's nephew, arrives. She is not exactly a main antagonist, but instead the big problem Casey faces serves as the antagonist.
The protagonist, Casey, goes through many struggles. She wants to have someone to spend time with on the island. She is tired of doing the same things everyday and doing everything with her brothers. Another struggle is that Casey is tired of being told what to do and tired of asking when she can do it. She wants to be more independent. Also, Casey really misses her friends and her boyfriend. Casey is later put in a situation where she has to really think and make the right decisions.
The theme in the novel is “You never know what to expect”. Casey goes on the island expecting the worse. She mainly expects boredom. When Jonah shows up, her expectations are higher because she finally has someone her age (not to mention, cute!) to hang out with.
I dislike that the author, in a way, “leaves you hanging” at the end of the book. Other than that, I loved “The Problem with Paradise” and is now one of my favorites. I recommend especially to teenage girls. Well, what are you waiting for? Go read it!
"Friday Night Lights" by: H.G. Bissinger
If you love football and it is your only care in the world, Odessa is the place for you. In the town of Odessa in west Texas, there is a team named the Permian Panthers, who in their sacred black and white, put on a show every Friday night under gleaming lights. In a separated town of black and white, football brings all races together.
Football in the town of Odessa is everything. It is not only a game, but a way of life. From the first time a State Championship is won by the Panthers, they become obsessed with winning. It shows football is the true care of the town. On Friday nights, all shops close early and all residents head to Ratliff Stadium. The 1988 team is expected to win the State Championship.
The oil business fuels the economy of Odessa. When the price of oil increases, the town is happy. When the price of oil decreases, people lose jobs, money, and even family. The one thing which brings all people of all ages together is MOJO football.
Friday Night Lights is written in an interesting way for it tells a number of stories and events in the history of Odessa. We hear about past football players, previous residents, and even has-been millionaires. At one point we are hearing about the Panthers playing a football game, and the next about a man who is booming in the oil business. Most oil workers and owners live well in the boom. In Odessa, when oil prices drastically drop, unemployment and debt sky-rocket.
There is a plethora of protagonists in Friday Night Lights. Mike Winchell, the quarterback, leads a confusing life and has many ups and downs throughout the season. Head Coach, Gary Gaines, stands the highest above all protagonists. The 1988 season is his third year and great things are expected from him. After two losses by one point each, things are not so bright for this coach. Threatening letters are sent to him and “for sale” signs are planted in his front yard. Keeping his family together is tough, and it does not help he stays in the coaching office until midnight preparing for games. Being head coach is a nerve racking job. As most coaches should be tough and inconsiderate, Gary is seen as a nice guy. The supporters of the team hate nice guys. It seems it is impossible to please the town, unless you are a winner.
This novel is interesting because it tells the history of the town, and gives a synopsis of the 1988 season. It is interesting to me because I have a passion for football. I have seen the movie and would suggest both the movie and book to anyone who enjoys Friday night football.
Football in the town of Odessa is everything. It is not only a game, but a way of life. From the first time a State Championship is won by the Panthers, they become obsessed with winning. It shows football is the true care of the town. On Friday nights, all shops close early and all residents head to Ratliff Stadium. The 1988 team is expected to win the State Championship.
The oil business fuels the economy of Odessa. When the price of oil increases, the town is happy. When the price of oil decreases, people lose jobs, money, and even family. The one thing which brings all people of all ages together is MOJO football.
Friday Night Lights is written in an interesting way for it tells a number of stories and events in the history of Odessa. We hear about past football players, previous residents, and even has-been millionaires. At one point we are hearing about the Panthers playing a football game, and the next about a man who is booming in the oil business. Most oil workers and owners live well in the boom. In Odessa, when oil prices drastically drop, unemployment and debt sky-rocket.
There is a plethora of protagonists in Friday Night Lights. Mike Winchell, the quarterback, leads a confusing life and has many ups and downs throughout the season. Head Coach, Gary Gaines, stands the highest above all protagonists. The 1988 season is his third year and great things are expected from him. After two losses by one point each, things are not so bright for this coach. Threatening letters are sent to him and “for sale” signs are planted in his front yard. Keeping his family together is tough, and it does not help he stays in the coaching office until midnight preparing for games. Being head coach is a nerve racking job. As most coaches should be tough and inconsiderate, Gary is seen as a nice guy. The supporters of the team hate nice guys. It seems it is impossible to please the town, unless you are a winner.
This novel is interesting because it tells the history of the town, and gives a synopsis of the 1988 season. It is interesting to me because I have a passion for football. I have seen the movie and would suggest both the movie and book to anyone who enjoys Friday night football.
"Slam" By Walter Dean Myers
Greg “Slam” Harris is a seventeen year old African American boy who lives in the Bronx of Brooklyn. Slam has a mom, a younger brother named Derek, and a father who drinks too much because he lost his last job. Slam began high school at Carver High School. Slam was forced to transfer to Latimer High School due to his grades and because his mother wanted him top get a better education. Latimer High School is a predominately a white school.
Slam has many friends. One of his friends nickname is Ice. Slam and Ice are really close friends. They went to Carver High School together. There is one thing that bothers Slam about Ice. Ice sells drugs. Slam does not how to cope with this. Ice and Slam have the same career goals. Both young men want to go to the NBA and play when they are older. Slam and Ice love the sport of basketball.
Mtisha is a girl that went to school at Carver with Slam and Ice. Mtisha knows that Ice sells drugs and feels the same way that Slam does. Mtisha is afraid of Slam liking another girl because Mtisha likes him a lot. She helps Slam in math because that is one subject that he is doing bad in. Mtisha and her mom go to the Hospital to check on Slam’s grandmother. Mtisha’s mom is close friends with Slam’s mom and grandmother.
Slam has many conflicts with the people around him. Slam has a problem with his basketball coach because Slam does not play the way the coach wants him to play. Derek loses Slam’s video camera and Slam has to find it. Slam has a problem with him self because he wont get his grades up. Slam could give up playing basketball because of his grades.
Slam has many friends. One of his friends nickname is Ice. Slam and Ice are really close friends. They went to Carver High School together. There is one thing that bothers Slam about Ice. Ice sells drugs. Slam does not how to cope with this. Ice and Slam have the same career goals. Both young men want to go to the NBA and play when they are older. Slam and Ice love the sport of basketball.
Mtisha is a girl that went to school at Carver with Slam and Ice. Mtisha knows that Ice sells drugs and feels the same way that Slam does. Mtisha is afraid of Slam liking another girl because Mtisha likes him a lot. She helps Slam in math because that is one subject that he is doing bad in. Mtisha and her mom go to the Hospital to check on Slam’s grandmother. Mtisha’s mom is close friends with Slam’s mom and grandmother.
Slam has many conflicts with the people around him. Slam has a problem with his basketball coach because Slam does not play the way the coach wants him to play. Derek loses Slam’s video camera and Slam has to find it. Slam has a problem with him self because he wont get his grades up. Slam could give up playing basketball because of his grades.
"Bucking the Sarge" By: Christopher Paul Curtis
The main characters in the book are Luther Farrell and the Sarge, Luther’s mom. Luther is a studious type of person who wants to learn and study philosophy. He is very interested in winning the science year for the third year in a row against the love of his life, Shayla Patrick. Instead of following his dream of becoming a philosopher, the Sarge is making him bus people from group homes the Sarge owns back and forth. The Sarge also makes him clean up rental homes and run a group home. The Sarge is a power hungry business owner who is more concerned about herself rather than her son. She does illegal things such as giving Luther a driver’s license, even though he is 15, to bus people around.
The book, “Bucking the Sarge” has many conflicts. The main character, Luther Farrell, is facing off with his mom, the Sarge, because the Sarge wants Luther to work more hours and Luther rather focus on his dream to be a philosopher. The conflict is that the Sarge is more focused on herself and what she wants Luther to do rather than support what Luther wants to do. When Luther talks to his mom about being a famous philosopher, his mom says that it is impossible for an African American from the City of Flint to become anything special. The Sarge tells Luther that if he wants to be successful, then he should work harder at the group homes so he can someday take of the Sarge’s chain of slum housing. Another conflict in the story is Luther and Sparky, his best friend, trying to get out of Flint, Michigan. Sparky tells Luther, “Flint is nothing but the Titanic; it just brings you down.” Luther and Sparky develop a plan to sue a company and use the money to get out of Flint.
The theme of “Bucking the Sarge” is to follow what you want to do in life and do not let anyone else tell you what you want to do. This theme applies to Luther because the Sarge makes him work in the slum houses she owns rather than what Luther wants to do. When Luther tells his mom how he wants to win the science fair for the third year in a row, the Sarge tells him it is simply not important. The science fair will not get you anywhere in life. The Sarge is carving a path for Luther to take up the slum housing, even though he does not want to, when Luther wants to be a philosopher.
What I like about the book is it shows how Luther overcomes the Sarge pulling him into working all the time. I also like how Sparky starts making smarter decisions and starts wanting to become something in life. What I did not like in the book is how the science fair was incorporated in the book. I thought it was confusing and hard to follow at some parts. Overall, “Bucking the Sarge” is a great book and I recommended students read it.
The book, “Bucking the Sarge” has many conflicts. The main character, Luther Farrell, is facing off with his mom, the Sarge, because the Sarge wants Luther to work more hours and Luther rather focus on his dream to be a philosopher. The conflict is that the Sarge is more focused on herself and what she wants Luther to do rather than support what Luther wants to do. When Luther talks to his mom about being a famous philosopher, his mom says that it is impossible for an African American from the City of Flint to become anything special. The Sarge tells Luther that if he wants to be successful, then he should work harder at the group homes so he can someday take of the Sarge’s chain of slum housing. Another conflict in the story is Luther and Sparky, his best friend, trying to get out of Flint, Michigan. Sparky tells Luther, “Flint is nothing but the Titanic; it just brings you down.” Luther and Sparky develop a plan to sue a company and use the money to get out of Flint.
The theme of “Bucking the Sarge” is to follow what you want to do in life and do not let anyone else tell you what you want to do. This theme applies to Luther because the Sarge makes him work in the slum houses she owns rather than what Luther wants to do. When Luther tells his mom how he wants to win the science fair for the third year in a row, the Sarge tells him it is simply not important. The science fair will not get you anywhere in life. The Sarge is carving a path for Luther to take up the slum housing, even though he does not want to, when Luther wants to be a philosopher.
What I like about the book is it shows how Luther overcomes the Sarge pulling him into working all the time. I also like how Sparky starts making smarter decisions and starts wanting to become something in life. What I did not like in the book is how the science fair was incorporated in the book. I thought it was confusing and hard to follow at some parts. Overall, “Bucking the Sarge” is a great book and I recommended students read it.
"Jake Ransom and the Skull King's Shadow" by James Rollins
The themes of Jake Ransom and the Skull King’s Shadow would be an archeological theme and a lost and found theme. An archeological theme would fit because the whole book is based around different archeological items. And lost and found because he in way finds his parents. Even though they were killed when they were on an archeological dig in Central America. Jake does find some of the archeological facts and discoveries that his parents made. So he doesn’t find them in a face to face manner but he does find them in a spiritual way or in a professional way.
Some symbols in my book were the symbol of making a difference, never giving up no matter what the circumstances are, being strong mentally and physically, and being a leader. All of these symbols are symbols of Jake. Jake makes a difference by being himself. In school he is teased and sometimes beat up because other kids think that he is weird just because he likes to study artifacts. He also is not a very popular kid in the school. He has one good friend but even the one good friend sometimes thinks that he is a little weird sometimes even though they enjoy doing mostly the same things. Jake also never gives up. Jake is faced with many challenges in the book that test this strength and character. Not once in the book does Jake double think himself or not believe in his own abilities. Jake is strong in both mentally and physically. Just like never giving up Jake must be strong mentally and physically because he is faced with different challenges just to find his parents artifacts and to defeat the Skull King. Finally Jake is a good leader. He always stays strong and he guides the way. With some assistance from the natives. All of these things apply to Jake and they should apply to all people because these are all good attributes to have.
In multiple occasions Jake endures many different conflicts. The obvious conflict is that Jake has no Mom or Dad. Jake must live with his uncle. Also that Jake really doesn’t have any friends until he enters the mysterious land. Once he gets to the museum in London. A few other conflicts that Jake endures are the conflict of escaping the dinosaur. He has no clue where he is but all he knows is that he needs to get the heck away from the dinosaur. Finally he had this conflict since he got to this mysterious land; he needs to find a way home.
There were parts of the book that I liked and disliked. I liked that parts that were somewhat real. The parts I disliked were the fake parts. Me personally I hate fiction books. I would much rather read about something that actually happened rather than reading about things that can physically happen or just are made up things. Such as the witch on a broom stick or a ghost that haunts people. To me Jake Ransom and the Skull King’s Shadow was a fake book rather than a real book to me. But if you enjoy reading fiction books then you will like this book. Any one in high school can read this book. I am very glad that I am done with the book.
Some symbols in my book were the symbol of making a difference, never giving up no matter what the circumstances are, being strong mentally and physically, and being a leader. All of these symbols are symbols of Jake. Jake makes a difference by being himself. In school he is teased and sometimes beat up because other kids think that he is weird just because he likes to study artifacts. He also is not a very popular kid in the school. He has one good friend but even the one good friend sometimes thinks that he is a little weird sometimes even though they enjoy doing mostly the same things. Jake also never gives up. Jake is faced with many challenges in the book that test this strength and character. Not once in the book does Jake double think himself or not believe in his own abilities. Jake is strong in both mentally and physically. Just like never giving up Jake must be strong mentally and physically because he is faced with different challenges just to find his parents artifacts and to defeat the Skull King. Finally Jake is a good leader. He always stays strong and he guides the way. With some assistance from the natives. All of these things apply to Jake and they should apply to all people because these are all good attributes to have.
In multiple occasions Jake endures many different conflicts. The obvious conflict is that Jake has no Mom or Dad. Jake must live with his uncle. Also that Jake really doesn’t have any friends until he enters the mysterious land. Once he gets to the museum in London. A few other conflicts that Jake endures are the conflict of escaping the dinosaur. He has no clue where he is but all he knows is that he needs to get the heck away from the dinosaur. Finally he had this conflict since he got to this mysterious land; he needs to find a way home.
There were parts of the book that I liked and disliked. I liked that parts that were somewhat real. The parts I disliked were the fake parts. Me personally I hate fiction books. I would much rather read about something that actually happened rather than reading about things that can physically happen or just are made up things. Such as the witch on a broom stick or a ghost that haunts people. To me Jake Ransom and the Skull King’s Shadow was a fake book rather than a real book to me. But if you enjoy reading fiction books then you will like this book. Any one in high school can read this book. I am very glad that I am done with the book.
"Jake Ransom and the Skull King's Shadow" by James Rollins
The themes of Jake Ransom and the Skull King’s Shadow would be an archeological theme and a lost and found theme. An archeological theme would fit because the whole book is based around different archeological items. And lost and found because he in way finds his parents. Even though they were killed when they were on an archeological dig in Central America. Jake does find some of the archeological facts and discoveries that his parents made. So he doesn’t find them in a face to face manner but he does find them in a spiritual way or in a professional way.
Some symbols in my book were the symbol of making a difference, never giving up no matter what the circumstances are, being strong mentally and physically, and being a leader. All of these symbols are symbols of Jake. Jake makes a difference by being himself. In school he is teased and sometimes beat up because other kids think that he is weird just because he likes to study artifacts. He also is not a very popular kid in the school. He has one good friend but even the one good friend sometimes thinks that he is a little weird sometimes even though they enjoy doing mostly the same things. Jake also never gives up. Jake is faced with many challenges in the book that test this strength and character. Not once in the book does Jake double think himself or not believe in his own abilities. Jake is strong in both mentally and physically. Just like never giving up Jake must be strong mentally and physically because he is faced with different challenges just to find his parents artifacts and to defeat the Skull King. Finally Jake is a good leader. He always stays strong and he guides the way. With some assistance from the natives. All of these things apply to Jake and they should apply to all people because these are all good attributes to have.
In multiple occasions Jake endures many different conflicts. The obvious conflict is that Jake has no Mom or Dad. Jake must live with his uncle. Also that Jake really doesn’t have any friends until he enters the mysterious land. Once he gets to the museum in London. A few other conflicts that Jake endures are the conflict of escaping the dinosaur. He has no clue where he is but all he knows is that he needs to get the heck away from the dinosaur. Finally he had this conflict since he got to this mysterious land; he needs to find a way home.
There were parts of the book that I liked and disliked. I liked that parts that were somewhat real. The parts I disliked were the fake parts. Me personally I hate fiction books. I would much rather read about something that actually happened rather than reading about things that can physically happen or just are made up things. Such as the witch on a broom stick or a ghost that haunts people. To me Jake Ransom and the Skull King’s Shadow was a fake book rather than a real book to me. But if you enjoy reading fiction books then you will like this book. Any one in high school can read this book. I am very glad that I am done with the book.
Some symbols in my book were the symbol of making a difference, never giving up no matter what the circumstances are, being strong mentally and physically, and being a leader. All of these symbols are symbols of Jake. Jake makes a difference by being himself. In school he is teased and sometimes beat up because other kids think that he is weird just because he likes to study artifacts. He also is not a very popular kid in the school. He has one good friend but even the one good friend sometimes thinks that he is a little weird sometimes even though they enjoy doing mostly the same things. Jake also never gives up. Jake is faced with many challenges in the book that test this strength and character. Not once in the book does Jake double think himself or not believe in his own abilities. Jake is strong in both mentally and physically. Just like never giving up Jake must be strong mentally and physically because he is faced with different challenges just to find his parents artifacts and to defeat the Skull King. Finally Jake is a good leader. He always stays strong and he guides the way. With some assistance from the natives. All of these things apply to Jake and they should apply to all people because these are all good attributes to have.
In multiple occasions Jake endures many different conflicts. The obvious conflict is that Jake has no Mom or Dad. Jake must live with his uncle. Also that Jake really doesn’t have any friends until he enters the mysterious land. Once he gets to the museum in London. A few other conflicts that Jake endures are the conflict of escaping the dinosaur. He has no clue where he is but all he knows is that he needs to get the heck away from the dinosaur. Finally he had this conflict since he got to this mysterious land; he needs to find a way home.
There were parts of the book that I liked and disliked. I liked that parts that were somewhat real. The parts I disliked were the fake parts. Me personally I hate fiction books. I would much rather read about something that actually happened rather than reading about things that can physically happen or just are made up things. Such as the witch on a broom stick or a ghost that haunts people. To me Jake Ransom and the Skull King’s Shadow was a fake book rather than a real book to me. But if you enjoy reading fiction books then you will like this book. Any one in high school can read this book. I am very glad that I am done with the book.
"Rules" By Cynthia Lord
This novel is all about conflicts. The main character, Catherine, is constantly arguing with almost every character she encounters, including herself. Towards the end of the novel Catherine realizes that she is the cause of all the conflicts.
The first conflict Catherine comes to encounter is the long lasting conflict with her brother, David. David has autism and he often embarrasses Catherine. Catherine thinks that David is like the devil or something and wants to purposely ruin her life, more specifically her relationships with people. But in reality, David physically can not control what he does, his brain will not allow him to. She begins to think of these rules for him to follow so that maybe, he can attempt to follow these rules and try not to embarrass Catherine.
The second conflict Catherine encounters is the conflict with her parents. Catherine, her mom, and her dad trained themselves to rebuild and revolve their lives around David and his needs, and although Catherine loves her brother, she is totally sick of this life style. Catherine believes that her needs have become almost completely inexistent to her parents and that they really do not seem to notice her anymore. She feels that her needs are hidden by David’s needs.
The next conflict Catherine finds herself in is with Jason and Kristi. Jason is a mentally handicapped boy who is mute and uses a book with cards that have words on them to speak because he can not do it himself. He also is in a wheelchair. She lies to him constantly about her “new neighbor friend”, Kristi. Catherine has not yet told Kristi that Jason is handicapped. She just knows that Jason is this boy whom Catherine spends much of her time with. So whenever Jason asks to meet Kristi, Catherine always makes up lame excuses so that she may not be caught in her lies. In the end, Catherine is caught and she feels terrible about it. Jason and Kristi both end up forgiving her, though.
"Invincible" By: Vince Papale with Chad Millman
If you love the Philadelphia Eagles, than you must know the name of Vince Papale. Vince Papale is a person like us, watching the NFL games from the stands and has a dream to be on the team. You would think men will make the team if they are young, fast, and strong players. If you only think that I got news for you people. Anybody has the will to tryout, but they may not have the determination to make the team. In Vince Papale’s case, he is a thirty year old who has a dream of making the team and decides to tryout. He goes for the tryout and guess what, he makes the team and with that said he is the oldest rookie to ever play football and that record still olds today. Although everything has a price and during his time he had a few ups and downs during his life.
During when he is a young boy, he is a jock. That means you have the skills and you get the babes in which he did. With his skills he set school records in track both indoor and outdoor records and they still remain to this day at Interboro High School. While doing that, it did result in injury that would keep him out for long periods of time.
His mom has mental problems when he his growing up. These problems did lead to bad moments, but not too severe that they had to concern as much as they did already. The games that he played, his mother is always there cheering him on. Sometimes it will be too much cheering for example of her yelling out real loud saying, “Go Vinny.”
The theme of this book is to always try to fulfill your dream and never give-up on anything in life. Vince Papale is the person that really defines this definition. When Vince is in training camp preparing for the upcoming game, he would never lose his energy and his momentum on the field. Whenever he has the chance to make a name for himself, he does it on the field in front of thousands of people urging for the Eagles to get a win.
I truly love this book because it truly gives me a reason to strive for something that benefits me in every way of life. It also tells you that you can truly do something for yourself when living in a really bad neighborhood in south Philly. Vince Papale to me is one of my role-models and when you read this book, he will be your hero or role-model too. If you are a person just looking for a sports book about sportsmanship or hard-work, this is it.
"Dope Sick" by Walter Dean Myers
Walter Dean Myers is one of my favorite authors. The latest book I've read by him is called Dope Sick. This book is about violence, drugs, drug use, murder, and second chances. The main character is known as Lil J. He is surrounded by drug abuse and addiction in his neighborhood and at home. His mother is a drunk and doesn't set a good example for him. Unfortunately he's no better, he goes and shoots up heroine or steals his mom's pain pills to calm himself down or when he's upset about something. Or as it is referenced as in the book, getting "Dope Sick". Lil J is looking to get some quick cash when he stumbles upon his buddy Rico. Rico is in the process of making a drug deal so Lil J tags along so he can earn some money on a simple drug deal.
When Rico and Lil J pull up to the place where the deal is going down, there buyer comes up to them and starts moving along with the deal. Rico gets suspicious and pulls a gun a starts searching the guy. Rico finds a badge, cuffs, and a gun. An undercover cop. Rico cuffs the guy to a pole and realizes that another squad is coming in to make the arrest, he pops three shells into the poor guy. They flee the scene and Lil J has the murder weapon. Rico being arrested and Lil J running with a gunshot wound to the arm finds an abandoned crack house. When he goes inside he finds this guy sitting in a room watching TV. Lil J pulls the gun up and asks him who he is. The guy in the room tells him his name. (Kelly) Kelly tells Lil J to put the gun down and come inside. Kelly is in a way like God. He knows everything that's going on with Lil J. He puts the TV on and shows Lil J what will happen in the future...and it's not pretty.
Lil J is in amazement at what Kelly is showing him. Kelly offers to change something that happened in the last 24 hours. Lil J is to scarred and nervous to tell Kelly anything. Lil J tells many things to Kelly, like having a son and family. But Lil J is so nervous he doesn't know what to do with this offer. Lil J becomes extremely nervous and he doesn't know what to do. Lil J asks Kelly to get rid of the gun use to shoot the police officer with and he takes it and shoots about 5 shots out the window into the street. Lil J is now terrified and knows that the cops are gonna come and kill him and Kelly. But Kelly changes the whole situation. Kelly takes the gun and walks downstairs and gets shot by the SWAT team. Lil J is just lying down on the floor listening to the gun shots below him. After everything quiets down, Lil J looks outside and sees that the cops and everyone are gone. He turns the TV on and sees that Kelly changed the whole scene to show that he was the suspect instead of Lil J. Lil J is in amazement and gets up and walks home to see that everything went back to normal.
There were many conflicts in this book, but the main conflict is the whole situation with Lil J and the shooting. Lil J was just trying to make some money and it all went downhill from there. This book was very good. I enjoyed this book a lot. The way Myers describes the whole story grabs your attention. It kept making me think about what was going to happen. I would highly recommend this book to everyone.
When Rico and Lil J pull up to the place where the deal is going down, there buyer comes up to them and starts moving along with the deal. Rico gets suspicious and pulls a gun a starts searching the guy. Rico finds a badge, cuffs, and a gun. An undercover cop. Rico cuffs the guy to a pole and realizes that another squad is coming in to make the arrest, he pops three shells into the poor guy. They flee the scene and Lil J has the murder weapon. Rico being arrested and Lil J running with a gunshot wound to the arm finds an abandoned crack house. When he goes inside he finds this guy sitting in a room watching TV. Lil J pulls the gun up and asks him who he is. The guy in the room tells him his name. (Kelly) Kelly tells Lil J to put the gun down and come inside. Kelly is in a way like God. He knows everything that's going on with Lil J. He puts the TV on and shows Lil J what will happen in the future...and it's not pretty.
Lil J is in amazement at what Kelly is showing him. Kelly offers to change something that happened in the last 24 hours. Lil J is to scarred and nervous to tell Kelly anything. Lil J tells many things to Kelly, like having a son and family. But Lil J is so nervous he doesn't know what to do with this offer. Lil J becomes extremely nervous and he doesn't know what to do. Lil J asks Kelly to get rid of the gun use to shoot the police officer with and he takes it and shoots about 5 shots out the window into the street. Lil J is now terrified and knows that the cops are gonna come and kill him and Kelly. But Kelly changes the whole situation. Kelly takes the gun and walks downstairs and gets shot by the SWAT team. Lil J is just lying down on the floor listening to the gun shots below him. After everything quiets down, Lil J looks outside and sees that the cops and everyone are gone. He turns the TV on and sees that Kelly changed the whole scene to show that he was the suspect instead of Lil J. Lil J is in amazement and gets up and walks home to see that everything went back to normal.
There were many conflicts in this book, but the main conflict is the whole situation with Lil J and the shooting. Lil J was just trying to make some money and it all went downhill from there. This book was very good. I enjoyed this book a lot. The way Myers describes the whole story grabs your attention. It kept making me think about what was going to happen. I would highly recommend this book to everyone.
"Brisingr" Christopher Paolini
The book “Brisingr” focuses on the story of Eragon and his dragon Saphira as they continue their mission to overthrow the evil ruler of the Empire, Galbatorix. There is a struggle for power as the small country named Surda attempts to overthrow the larger Empire. Surda is supported by elves, dwarves, Urgals, and human rebels known as the Varden. The Empire is populated with large numbers of humans and they far outnumber Surda and its allies.
Eragon is one of the few remaining Dragon Riders, a group that governed Alagaesia in past times but was almost destroyed by a Rider named Galbatorix, who took control of the land. Galbatorix fears that a new Rider will rise up and take his position as King of the Empire. When he finds out about Eragon and his dragon, he sends his servants the Ra’zac after them in an effort to capture them. Eragon and Saphira are forced to flee from their home, and decide to join the Varden. After training with the Elves and learning about magic Eragon and Saphira contribute in two wars against the Empire in which they are victorious. While in battle he realizes that the younger enemy dragon rider named Murtagh seems to be stronger than him. Eragon and Saphira return to the Elves capital Ellesmera to train again. The elf Oromis and his dragon Glaedr reveal that Eragon's deceased mentor, Brom, is Eragon's father. Glaedr also reveals the source of Galbatorix's power which is Eldunari or heart of hearts. It is not a dragon's actual heart but an Eldunari allows the holder to communicate with or draw energy from the dragon it belongs to, even if the dragon is dead. Glaedr gives his Eldunari to Eragon and Saphira before they part.
Brisingr is told in third-person from the perspectives of multiple primary protagonists. These characters include the humans Eragon, Roran, Nasuada, the dragon Saphira, and the dragon Glaedr. The humans Galbatorix and Murtagh return as the primary antagonists, along with Murtagh's dragon Thorn. The main theme of this book is to never give up. Throughout the entire book Eragon and Saphira are faced with difficult challenges and they make it through by sheer determination. Eragon was forced to learn magic and all of his skills at a young age he had to learn the things other riders had decades to perfect in a couple years. He is thrown into battles and he faces foes far stronger than himself but he pushes himself to the limits and never quits.
Eragon is one of the few remaining Dragon Riders, a group that governed Alagaesia in past times but was almost destroyed by a Rider named Galbatorix, who took control of the land. Galbatorix fears that a new Rider will rise up and take his position as King of the Empire. When he finds out about Eragon and his dragon, he sends his servants the Ra’zac after them in an effort to capture them. Eragon and Saphira are forced to flee from their home, and decide to join the Varden. After training with the Elves and learning about magic Eragon and Saphira contribute in two wars against the Empire in which they are victorious. While in battle he realizes that the younger enemy dragon rider named Murtagh seems to be stronger than him. Eragon and Saphira return to the Elves capital Ellesmera to train again. The elf Oromis and his dragon Glaedr reveal that Eragon's deceased mentor, Brom, is Eragon's father. Glaedr also reveals the source of Galbatorix's power which is Eldunari or heart of hearts. It is not a dragon's actual heart but an Eldunari allows the holder to communicate with or draw energy from the dragon it belongs to, even if the dragon is dead. Glaedr gives his Eldunari to Eragon and Saphira before they part.
Brisingr is told in third-person from the perspectives of multiple primary protagonists. These characters include the humans Eragon, Roran, Nasuada, the dragon Saphira, and the dragon Glaedr. The humans Galbatorix and Murtagh return as the primary antagonists, along with Murtagh's dragon Thorn. The main theme of this book is to never give up. Throughout the entire book Eragon and Saphira are faced with difficult challenges and they make it through by sheer determination. Eragon was forced to learn magic and all of his skills at a young age he had to learn the things other riders had decades to perfect in a couple years. He is thrown into battles and he faces foes far stronger than himself but he pushes himself to the limits and never quits.
"Black and White" by Paul Volponi
Black and White is the story of two high school athletes. The main characters are Eddie (White) and Marcus (Black). Both play football and basketball and are very good at both. They are the stars of the basketball team and hope to continue to play in college. Marcus and Eddie are nicknamed Black and White because of their skin color. They haven’t had problems with each others’ race but this will come up was a problem later in the story. Marcus and Eddie rob people to get money but one stickup goes horribly wrong and Eddie shoots the man. The man recognizes Marcus and a woman from a previous stickup says she recognized Eddie. Marcus pleads guilty to receive a reduced sentence while the woman who accused Eddie does not know for certain that it was Eddie. Marcus is no longer allowed to participate on the team and they end up loosing in the first round of the playoffs. The book closes with Eddie and Marcus playing basketball one on one, one last time before Marcus goes off to prison.
The main theme in this story is racism. Eddie and Marcus are both different races but are best friends. Racism doesn’t come into play in the book until after both are accused of armed robbery and the shooting of one of the victims. Marcus, who is black, is unable to afford a lawyer due to the fact that he does not have a dad and his mom cannot pay for it. Eddie is able to afford a lawyer though, after his dad starts working overtime. Many of the black players on the basketball team are upset with Eddie when they learn that Marcus is going to go to jail even though Eddie shot the man. Other signs of racism in the book are toward Marcus. Some characters in the book think that Marcus became a criminal due to the fact that he lived in a poor neighborhood with a single mother.
A main conflict in the story is between Eddie and whether he will admit to being the one who shot the gun or whether he won’t admit it. Eddie feels awful about the fact that Marcus is taking the fall for him shooting the man in the robbery. However, Eddie does not admit to being the gunman and instead risks a trial. Eddie has a lot to loose because he has just taken a scholarship to go play basketball at St. John’s University. The conflict ends when Eddie, his family, and his lawyer agree that the woman, who was a victim of a robbery, does not have enough evidence to have Eddie go to jail.
The main theme in this story is racism. Eddie and Marcus are both different races but are best friends. Racism doesn’t come into play in the book until after both are accused of armed robbery and the shooting of one of the victims. Marcus, who is black, is unable to afford a lawyer due to the fact that he does not have a dad and his mom cannot pay for it. Eddie is able to afford a lawyer though, after his dad starts working overtime. Many of the black players on the basketball team are upset with Eddie when they learn that Marcus is going to go to jail even though Eddie shot the man. Other signs of racism in the book are toward Marcus. Some characters in the book think that Marcus became a criminal due to the fact that he lived in a poor neighborhood with a single mother.
A main conflict in the story is between Eddie and whether he will admit to being the one who shot the gun or whether he won’t admit it. Eddie feels awful about the fact that Marcus is taking the fall for him shooting the man in the robbery. However, Eddie does not admit to being the gunman and instead risks a trial. Eddie has a lot to loose because he has just taken a scholarship to go play basketball at St. John’s University. The conflict ends when Eddie, his family, and his lawyer agree that the woman, who was a victim of a robbery, does not have enough evidence to have Eddie go to jail.
"The Blind Side" by Michael Lewis
“The Blind Side”, tells the story of Michael Oher, who is discovered as a football prodigy while in high school. Michael Oher gathered attention for his size and strength as a Memphis teenager who might be a future NFL left tackle. He is the son of a crack-addicted mother and a murdered father, he is incredibly shy, and his high school grade point average is 0.6. He is basically a homeless black teenager with a bleak future except for his athletic talent. Sean Tuohy is a self-made white millionaire who has a daughter in Oher's class, and he has helped out impoverished black students in the past. He and his wife took an interest in Oher, providing him food and clothing, and eventually having him move into their home as one of their family. Michael Lewis explores Michael Oher's story and how the kindness and caring of a family has turned his bleak future into a promising one.
The author of the book, "The Blind Side", is Michael Lewis. He wrote many sports books in football and baseball. You can see much of the football perspective in the beginning part of the book. The evolution of the position of the left tackle (which is the blind side of right-handed quarterbacks) has revolutionized the passing game of football. Why has the position of the left tackle changed the passing game? The offensive line is misconstrued as an unskilled position. In reality, all football teams need an offensive line to execute their running game or passing game. In particular, the value of the left tackle has gone up considerably. This is not a disrespect for the other offensive linemen, the center, guards, and the right tackle. The defensive linebackers (in particular, Lawrence Taylor) would attack from the blind side of the quarterback and often injure him. Everyone would accept that the quarterback is extremely valuable part of any football team. The left tackle became a sort of an asset protection for the team. Not anyone can play left tackle. You had to have the physical attributes such as long arms, huge body frame, and quick feet.
Michael Oher is born with the attributes of a left tackle. He has to develop his talent and even work on his academic skills in order to go to high school, then college, and then the pros. This story is not only about the blind side in football but also the blind side of life. We all can learn and be inspired by this story. Michael Oher was able to go to school (both high school and college) and then to play professional football as a first round choice. His journey is one of obstacles, redemption, failures, triumph, and victory.
I loved reading this novel. It is mainly because of the football aspect, but also because of the love of a family to bring someone into their home and take care of him.
The author of the book, "The Blind Side", is Michael Lewis. He wrote many sports books in football and baseball. You can see much of the football perspective in the beginning part of the book. The evolution of the position of the left tackle (which is the blind side of right-handed quarterbacks) has revolutionized the passing game of football. Why has the position of the left tackle changed the passing game? The offensive line is misconstrued as an unskilled position. In reality, all football teams need an offensive line to execute their running game or passing game. In particular, the value of the left tackle has gone up considerably. This is not a disrespect for the other offensive linemen, the center, guards, and the right tackle. The defensive linebackers (in particular, Lawrence Taylor) would attack from the blind side of the quarterback and often injure him. Everyone would accept that the quarterback is extremely valuable part of any football team. The left tackle became a sort of an asset protection for the team. Not anyone can play left tackle. You had to have the physical attributes such as long arms, huge body frame, and quick feet.
Michael Oher is born with the attributes of a left tackle. He has to develop his talent and even work on his academic skills in order to go to high school, then college, and then the pros. This story is not only about the blind side in football but also the blind side of life. We all can learn and be inspired by this story. Michael Oher was able to go to school (both high school and college) and then to play professional football as a first round choice. His journey is one of obstacles, redemption, failures, triumph, and victory.
I loved reading this novel. It is mainly because of the football aspect, but also because of the love of a family to bring someone into their home and take care of him.
"Revenge of the Shadow King" by Derek Benz and J.S. Lewis
Hello, “The Revenge of the Shadow king” is a really good book. It has four main characters in it, Max, Natalia, Harley, and Ernie. Max is extremely rich and his parents separated, Natalia is the best detective in school. Harley, well just like the Harley Motorcycle, is tuff and big, and Ernie is the complete opposite he is weak scrawny and he loves chocolate. These four friends make up the Grey Griffins. Max, when he was over his grandma’s house found a book and in the book was all the monsters a game round table, which the Grey Griffins play often. Well, Max accidently released some of the monsters and witches in the real world. Max also runs into a monster called the Slayer Goblin, which every time he runs into it, it tries to kill him. All these monsters are trying to release the Shadow King into the world so that he can destroy it. Now, you might be saying, well why is the Shadow King getting revenge? Well, that is because during the Medieval Times, all the monsters were loose and killing. Well King Arthur, trapped the shadow king and the creatures in another world when they went into a long bloody war.
The theme of my book is I think true friends will stick together through thick or thin. For, when Max told his friends that he released monsters into the world, they stuck with him. Even when Max broke a secret pact not to open up the book again, they stuck through. Which, it is a good theme, but it is something I dislike in the book. I find that they should have had one person just blow up and leave the group saying “no, this is your mess so you need to clean it up, not me!” That friend then should have been convinced to join the bad side and fight against his friends and when it came point for him to kill his friends he could not do it so he killed the Shadow King instead. Sadly that did not happen.
Well this is my video blog and if you could not understand me the words that I am speaking is below the video. Thank you for watching and hope you enjoyed it. Hopefully I convinced you that this book is AWESOME and you would like to read it.
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