The Catcher In The Rye by J.D. Salinger was the first book I've ever read three times over. This book encourage my interest in reading more literacy which in the end, has strengthened my perception of writing. Even though I read this book in 8th grade, I last read it during my sophomore year. This may be the only book that is about absolutely nothing yet will always intrigue me. This book means a lot to me for the simple fact that the main character related to me and my life at that point.
Slaughterhouse-Five
Junior year
Kurt Vonnegut is an amazing author and I'm actually excited to read his other book, "Welcome to the Monkey House". I read Slaughterhouse-Five my junior year and it's a very well-written and captivating book. I've never wanted to look for more books by the same author before really, so this was a good place to start.
Boy in the Striped PJ's
This book is a very simple read yet it's overall theme is, "having the courage to engage in humane actions" which gives this book a deeper purpose. As two young boys live through WWII without much understanding of the war, a beautiful friendship is kindled between "enemies". Bruno being German in a Nazi family and Schmuel a Polish Jew in the concentration camps. For this novel study I was asked to create a project that represented the true essence of friendship which I have posted below.
"MONSTER"
Walter Dean Myers book, "Monster" is an interesting read that's puzzling and sometimes a little depressing or psychotic. The novel is about an innocent teenager, Steve, whose being accused of murder and is facing a long and difficult trial where no one believes otherwise. Even Steve's parents question his innocence. To cope with the anxiety Steve journals all of his thoughts and emotions while he's held in custody. Throughout the book Steve appears to be unsure of himself and of who he is in the process of the trial. Once the verdict was set though, everyone in the book was surprised. His family and friends were happy for Steve while the public and court saw him as a monster for the most part. This novel is good for making you think deeply about a different perspective on society and life in general for a young African American.
I am The Cheese
Freshman year
I am The Cheese written by Robert Comier is one of the best mind-bending novels in my opinion. It was recommended by my freshman english teacher, and though the cover may seem discouraging, a truly beautiful mystery lies within its pages. This book got me into reading more psychopathic or suspenseful related novels.
The Alchemist
Senior year
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho is one of those books that has not really altered my perspective on life, but inspired me to start living it. The vocabulary is very interesting and the theme is inspiring. It was a great book to start off my senior year at Yampah.
Night
Junior High (8th grade)
Elie Wiesel's novel, "Night" is a beautiful piece of literature. This was the first book I read on the Holocaust in 8th grade. Night truly creates a clear image of the horrible events that took place during World War II. A very emotional book that made my heart cry and appreciate family more.
Freedom Writers
The Freedom Writers Diary is an inspiring anthology; each piece has it's own character and story which makes this interesting throughout the entire book. I learned quite a bit about gangs and the projects and what really happens in the back streets of California. It's amazing how one teacher changed those students lives and the thousands who read their stories today.