Reading Response Blog #14

1/4/2015

Welcome back from the Winter Break! I hope you all did some exciting reading during your time off. I finished two books over the break. Having time off is a great opportunity to focus on your "reading life" --your time spent relaxed and reading. During the school weeks, I spend a lot of time preparing lessons, grading, and doing other tasks associated with being a working adult, so I don't find enough free time to read. I love school vacations so I can spend time diving into books I love for hours at a time!

This Week's Prompt:

Give us an update on your "Reading Life".
Write about your "reading life" by describing what you have been reading recently, what it is about, and how you like it. Basically, you summarize what you are reading and then evaluate your experience reading it.

I can't wait to hear about what you all have been reading recently!

Happy Responding!

95 Comments

Julia

1/5/2015 07:43:08 am

Dear Class,

One book that I am currently reading is called When Life Gives you O.J. It is about a girl who really wants a dog, but her parents won't let her. Her Grandfather tells her to pretend that an orange juice carton is a dog so she can prove to her parents she is responsible enough to take care of her own real dog. She is hesitant at first, but gives into his plan. A reason why I enjoy the book is because I have many connections with the girl. One connection is that I too desperately want a dog. This connection allows me to appreciate this book more.

Sincerely,
Julia

Danny

1/5/2015 09:56:34 am

Dear, Julia
were you so desperate for a dog that you would train a can of O.J.

Julia

1/8/2015 12:28:58 am

Dear Danny,

I would only do it if I knew it would work and my parents would get me a dog.

Juia

Rheona

1/5/2015 01:08:27 pm

Hi Julia,
I also desperately want a dog. What is it that makes you want a dog? Do you think that the plan will work? Also, Isn't that book one of the books from the book reading event that we are doing in library? Would you suggest it to people too?

Thanks,
RHEONA

Olivia D.

1/6/2015 08:09:25 am

Dear Julia,

Do you think the girl will be successful with her plan to get a dog?
I look forward to reading your next response!

Sincerely,
Olivia D.

Julia

1/8/2015 12:32:07 am

Dear Rheona,

I don't really know why I want a dog, but ever since my sister and I were little we wanted a dog. I think the plan will work because the book would be really boring if she didn't get one. I could not really get into the book, but I would still suggest it to others to at least try.

Julia

Marc

1/6/2015 10:28:58 am

Julia,
Would you go through the stuff that the girl goes through to get a dog? If not what would you do? Anyways, wow! That sounds like an interesting story. What are some of the other reasons you enjoy the book so much?

Sincerely,
Marc

Julia

1/9/2015 12:44:52 am

Dear Marc,

I would do what she did to get a dog, but I'm not sure it would work and that my parents would allow me to have a dog. Maybe they would but you never know. I actually couldn't finish the book, it was a little slow in the beginning, but I would still suggest it to someone if they were interested.

Julia

Ms. Kimball

1/7/2015 10:38:14 am

Dear Julia,

Your summary was very clear and entertaining --good job! I talked to you in person, so I know you ended up not enjoying the book. I wonder why a book with such an interesting concept can disappoint a reader like you... any ideas?

Sincerely,
Ms. Kimball

Julia

1/8/2015 12:42:02 am

Dear Ms. Kimball,

Like I said to Rheona, I couldn't really get into the book. I don't know if I was just going through one of those phases where you are just not in the reading mood, but I couldn't get into it.

Julia

Julia

1/9/2015 12:41:12 am

Dear Olivia,

I think she will be successful, because her parents will see that she is responsible enough to take care of a dog. Thank you for your kind response!

Julia

Talia

1/11/2015 03:00:58 am

Julia,
I also want a dog! I wouldn't train a can of OJ to get one though. When you responded to Danny's post you said that you wouldn't train a can of OJ to get a dog even though you want one. What would you do instead to show your parents that you deserve a dog if anything at all?
From,
Talia

Kaela

1/11/2015 11:45:56 pm

Dear Julia
Wow! That seems like that's a really good book. And I can understand you want a dog most people want a dog but I am good with my cute cats. Maybe you can even convince your parents with one of the tricks in the book.
sincerely Kaela

Danny

1/5/2015 12:08:24 pm

Dear Class,

It all started with an ally cat looking for food, to the fait of the world in the hands of three magical animals. How did this unfortunate event occur you ask? Well…
Aldwyn a clever ally cat is looking for a snack when a hunter named Grimslade hunts him down. Aldwyn takes cover in a shop, a place where animals, also known as familiars, are kept to help all wizards. Aldwyn does not know this. Jack, a young wizard, comes into the shop with his master Kallstaff, looking for a familiar. Jack looks around the store a couple times and sees Aldwyn, not all looking active. The shop owner says that the best familiars are the ones that do not show their powers. Because of what the shop owner said, it had made Jack choose Aldwyn. Jack and Kallstaff, the master, bring alwdyn back to where they live. This little cottage called the Stone Runlet. After that aldwyn meets Jacks brother and sister and his fellow familiars then some magic happens, Kallstaff casts a spell that can make Jack and aldwyn speak to each other. That night the queen of all the land and her three guards attack them. There was an EPIC battle but sadly in the end Kallstaff dies, and Jack his brother and sister get captured. A prophecy told them that they had incredible power and they would be guardians of the world. But the queen feared they would get power over the land so she captured them, and now it is up to the familiars to save them so Jack and his siblings can save the world.

From,
Danny

Rheona

1/6/2015 07:38:10 am

Hi Danny,
Is the name of the book called The Familiars? Is there ant background information on Jack and his master? Thanks!

Sincerely,
RHEONA

Ms. Kimball

1/7/2015 10:49:23 am

Dear Danny,

That sounds like a very complicated story! I had to read your response a few times because I had trouble keeping track of all of the characters you mentioned. Sometimes it can be a challenge to keep ideas in order as a reader if some punctuation in the text is missing. I was wondering, what happens to Aldwyn once he returns home with Jack and the master wizard?

Sincerely,
Ms. Kimball

Talia

1/9/2015 12:41:27 am

Danny,
Wow! You left me with no questions!-Talia

Rheona

1/5/2015 01:05:07 pm

Hi Class,
Welcome Back! Over the break I actually started a new book that is the first one of its series. The name of the book is The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan. It is the first book in the series, 'The Kane Chronicles'.
Carter and Sadie Kane,do not live together, Sadie is a typical 12 years old girl. She's been living with her grandparents in London since she was 6. Carter on the other hand travels the world with their father, Julius Kane an Egyptologist, and they only get to visit Sadie twice a year because of the custody agreement after their mother's death. Their adventure begins with one of these visits,a day that went from being normal to finding out that they have to stop a God, save their father, and escape the House of Life's mysterious group, all while having a God inside them and fleeing for their lives. Carter and Sadie thought that they were just going to the museum so their father can look at an artifact but actually their father had a secret agenda. Their dad tries to release a God, but instead five Gods were released, including an evil God named Set who plans on destructing the world. It was during the release that Sadie and Carter got Gods inside them, Sadie and Carter didn't even know it happened but next thing they knew they were dragged into a world of magic and danger. Somehow they know how to fight a little and they have some newly found magic so they have some protection against the many enemies including mythical creatures, like serpopards (serpent leopards) and Set's minions. Carter and Sadie, together, must stop Set before its to late but during the journey enemies continue to get in the way and they find out secrets about their family which changes things greatly. Thats only what I have read! I can't wait to finish the book and move on to the next! I would definitely suggest this book to people.

Sincerely,
Rheona

Ms. Kimball

1/7/2015 12:14:23 pm

Dear Rheona,

Like Danny's blog, I had to read yours a couple of times to keep everything straight. I think it was especially challenging because of some missing or misused punctuation.The book sounds like it has quite a complex plot! You seem to understand it very well. Does the Ancient Egyptian history intertwined in the plot intrigue you? I always loved learning about ancient Egyptian and Greek gods.

Sincerely,
Ms. Kimball

Rheona

1/7/2015 01:43:44 pm

Hi Ms.Kimball!
YES. Ancient Egyptian and Greek gods are so interesting to read and learn about, because there can be many different takes to the myths and believes! I have always love fantasy with a little fairy-tail-like twang to it. For example, in The Red Pyramid Jack and Sadie both have powers that they learn about AFTER the encounter with the gods! What fantasy stories do you like, Why?

Rheona

RHEONA

1/7/2015 01:51:46 pm

Hi Ms.Kimball,
Now that I re-read my reaspond WITH your feedback in my head I see what you are saying. I think I also jumped right into the juicy part to fast. Do you have any more feedback for me?

Rheona

Ms. Kimball

1/8/2015 01:07:34 pm

Dear Rheona,

First off, you are amazing at asking thoughtful questions, especially of your fellow students. You often ask the exact same questions I am thinking. Hopefully everyone answers you with equal thoughtfulness!

I agree with you about how myths can be told many different ways and that's what makes them so interesting. People often make references to myths when trying to explain things. So if you are familiar with the myth, you can extract more meaning from a text. I remember one time an author mention someone's "Odyssean journey," and because I had read Homer's The Odyssey (a really epic poem about a really epic journey), I knew what he meant. I haven't read the Kane Chronicles yet, but it's definitely on my list, especially after your summary of it!

You're doing an awesome job. Keep up the diligent work!

Sincerely,
Ms. Kimball

Talia

1/9/2015 12:46:23 am

Rheona,
Did Carter or Sadie get the bad god inside of them? What do you mean they got gods inside of them?

Sofia

1/11/2015 01:23:50 am

Rheona,
Wow, sounds like a good book! How do you like it so far?
If you could be any character, who would you be, and how would you react to everything thats going on?
Sofia

Alec

1/6/2015 03:50:41 am

Dear Class,

Well, I just started my book but its called Mr.Terupt falls again. Its the book after because of Mr.Terupt. In the beginning, Peter, Anna, Alexia, Danielle, Jeffrey, and Ms.Newberry help Mr.Terupt pack boxes and help him move to the middle school. Thats all I have so far. I like it because I wonder whats going to happen next. I'm so excited!!!!

From,
Alec

Ms. Kimball

1/7/2015 12:17:17 pm

Dear Alec,

How fun! You got the second book. How do the characters compare to their earlier selves? Is Peter still a troublemaker? Is Alexia back to her sinister ways? Have any of the characters changed?

I look forward to hearing more!

Sincerely,
Ms. Kimball

Alec

1/9/2015 12:37:38 am

Dear Ms. Kimball,
The characters are a lot different. Alexia is nice, Peter still is kind of a troublemaker, and thats about it.

Rheona

1/8/2015 11:31:49 am

Hi Alec,
What is the plot of the story? Do you know it or does it not tell you?

RHEONA

Olivia D.

1/6/2015 08:04:08 am

Dear Ms. Kimball,

A book I've recently finished is titled "Counting by sevens".
It is about a girl named Willow who comes home only to find out her parents have passed away during her time in school. A member of her special needs club volunteers to let her stay at her house while their trying to find her a real home. Willow is also extremely smart but quite odd as well. Her one and only friend, Mai is doing all she can to keep Willow from getting tossed away into an orphanage but will she succeed?
The thing I liked about this book is it is so unpredictable you never know what is going to happen next. Also it is filled with great suspense always leaving the reader hanging.
I would definitely recommend this book.

Sincerely,
Olivia D.

Layla

1/7/2015 12:18:36 pm

Dear Olivia D.,
I love that book!!! I agree with you about the suspense part. Great job with your response!
From, Layla

Ms. Kimball

1/7/2015 12:20:01 pm

Dear Olivia,

Wow! Poor Willow. It sounds like she has a disability. What is it? Also, I am curious why the book is called, "Counting By Sevens"? That is an interesting title. I would love to know how it relates to the plot.

Sincerely,
Ms. Kimball

Olivia D.

1/7/2015 12:52:42 pm

Dear Ms.Kimball

This book is called counting by sevens because when she is going through rough times she counts by sevens and it makes her somewhat feel better. Also the author never clearly states specifically what her disability is but I think it is autism.
I hope you read this book I defiantly recommend it!

Sincerely,
Olivia D.

Ms. Kimball

1/8/2015 01:10:12 pm

Dear Olivia,

That is an interesting strategy to cope with challenges --counting by sevens. I wonder why she chose 7, maybe because 7 is considered a lucky number? I will order a copy of the book for our class library, for sure!

Sincerely,
Ms. Kimball

RHEONA

1/8/2015 11:33:24 am

Hi Olivia,
What part of the story are you reading right now? Can you INFER what will happen next?

Julia

1/9/2015 12:35:15 am

Dear Olivia,

That sounds like a really interesting book! How old is Willow? Also, I wonder why she didn't get informed that her parents had passed away while she was at school? Do you have any idea why? Great response!

Sincerely,
Julia

Layla

1/6/2015 08:06:57 am

Dear Ms. Kimball,
Over the winter break, I started the book The thing About Luck by Cynthia Kadohata. The part I just read was about Summer and her family going to the Parker's house for harvest season. (They live in Kansas and are farmers). Summer and Obaachan, her grandmother, must cook all day while her brother, grandfather, the Parker's, and the workers go out into the field and drive the combines.
This book is about a girl, Summer, and how her family have really bad luck one year. Summer gets malaria, her brother becomes invisible to other people, and therefore has no friends; and her parents don't have much money. But Summer is about to find out that people can make their own luck.
From,
Layla

Ms. Kimball

1/7/2015 12:25:37 pm

Dear Layla,

I wonder how Summer is going to make her own luck. Life can be extremely challenging and many people blame their problems on things beyond their control. I've done that before! For example, I've blamed my bad moods on the weather. But over time, I've learned that assigning blame for your problems does no good. I need to accept responsibility for my problems. Only then can I work to overcome them. Does Summer do anything like that? How are you enjoying the book so far?

Sincerely,
Ms. Kimball

Layla

1/9/2015 12:14:00 pm

Dear Ms. Kimball,
Summer never really blames her problems on anything. I think that is a good thing, though, because it is a sign of maturity-not blaming your problems on other things, because it does not help yourself. The answer to your other question about me enjoying the book is yes I am, thank you for asking!!!!:)
From, Layla

Rheona

1/8/2015 11:35:08 am

Hi Layla,
Wow, that book sounds really interesting. Where did you hear about it or find it?

from,
RHEONA

Layla

1/6/2015 08:09:02 am

Dear Rheona,
That sounds like a really good book you are reading! Maybe I'll try it. Should I? Do you recommend it?

Rheona

1/7/2015 01:46:05 pm

Hi Layal,
YES. I do recommend it to people, but just a heads up the book is VERY long and has 2-3 sequels to it!

Thank you for responding,
RHEONA

Forrest

1/6/2015 09:49:08 am

Dear Ms,Kimball,

I am reading a book called Pay It Forward by Catherine Ryan Hyde.
It is about a teacher named Mr. St. Clair. He was in a war and his face was disfigured Trevor a student in Mr. St. Clair’s class asked him about his face. Mr. St. Clair told him and was happy that he asked him and that he was being honest about his feeling. Mr. St. Clair gave an extra credit project. It was to think of something to change the world and put it into action. The rest of the book is how Trevor works on the extra credit project. The first thing he does is help a homeless man. But soon he revealed his whole project of changing the world. You have to read this book to find out about his plan.

This book is historical fiction. I don’t always read this type of book so I think it is a good change. I usually read fiction or sometimes fantasy or adventure. I like historical fiction because it is based on things that could or did happen. I like this book because I think it has a big meaning. It feels like you are really interacting with the characters. The book inspires me to change the world. To change the world it does not have to be a great big thing. It can be something small.

Your Student,

Forrest

Ms. Kimball

1/7/2015 12:40:16 pm

Dear Forrest,

I believe that you will do great things with your life and make a big difference in the world. You have so much motivation and heart. And you are very right. To change the world, you don't have to do some great big thing. I hope that by inspiring you guys with all of my speeches, passions, and love of learning, you'll go off into the world and make it a better place. That's how I hope to change the world.

I'm glad you're enjoying the book. I liked it when I read some of it with you. Mr. St. Clair sounds like an interesting guy. I would like to know more about him. You said the story is historical fiction. When does it take place?

Sincerely,
Ms. Kimball

Forrest

1/10/2015 06:54:28 am

Dear Ms.Kimball,

Thank you so much for saying such kind words. I think you can change the world too. With you kind heart and love of teaching. I think you can do anything! I agree with you that Mr. St. Clair is an interesting guy. To answer you question I am not shire when the book took place but I think it is from 1990s. Thanks for responding!

your student,

Forrest

Rheona

1/8/2015 11:37:35 am

Hi Forrest,
Arg! Now I need to read that book, you made it sound so interesting. I also HAVE to find out what Trevor does!

From,
Rheona

Forrest

1/9/2015 12:41:21 am

Dear Rheona,

Arg! This is my favorite book I have been reading this school year so I think you are going to like it. By the way if Trevor was not in this book the book would be very boring.

From,

Forrest

Marc

1/6/2015 10:25:57 am

Class,
Happy new year! Can you believe It is already 2015! Currently I am reading a book called The Scorch Trials, which is apart of the maze runner series. Right now, Thomas is hesitant of going into the second trial, because he doesn't want to go through the same experience as he did the first time. Also, if him and the other gladers don't make it out in two weeks, they will unfortunately get a disease, and will not have a cure. However, if they make it out in less than two years, they will live and get a cure! I find this book very interesting because of the plot. For example, kids get put into a maze and have to survive, and find their way out. Why wouldn't you wanna read that. I also really liked the first book, so I expect to like the rest of the series.

From,
Marc

Sam

1/7/2015 09:31:10 am

Dear Marc,
how funny is it that we both did this blog on the same book. Sadly I read yours and spoiled a little bit of the book for myself, before I realized we were reading the same book. I wonder what the outcome of the series is going to be since were both reading the same book. Is Thomas and his friends going to escape the trials, or is everything going to go downhill for Thomas and his buddies in the second book? More and More questions to come.

Sincerely,
Sam

Ms. Kimball

1/7/2015 12:48:20 pm

Dear Sam,

That's a bummer! Sorry you got some spoilers. I hope it didn't ruin the story too much for you.

Sincerely,
Ms. Kimball

Marc

1/8/2015 12:33:48 am

Sam,
Haha that is so funny! I agree with you though, what is gonna happen to Thomas? I predict that he will be fine though.

Sincerely,
Marc

Ms. Kimball

1/7/2015 12:46:51 pm

Dear Marc,

Happy 2015 to you, too! Congrats on finishing The Maze Runner. I need to read it myself. I have to admit, the plot sounds slightly crazy. Who in the world would kidnap kids and stick them in a maze and force them to fight for survival? I guess I have to read the book to find out. I remember when I first read The Hunger Games, I thought the plot was crazy too, but as I read more, I got sucked in because the author wrote the story so well. With good writing, a clever author can make any plot believable. What are some ways the author of The Maze Runner sucks you into the crazy plot? Did you ever have a hard time buying into it?

Sincerely,
Ms. Kimball

Marc

1/8/2015 12:37:56 am

Dear Ms. Kimball,
The author pulled me in from the beginning. He did that by Thomas waking up in a box that is so dark. So, from the start you had to be wondering where he going. Right?

From,
Marc

Ms. Kimball

1/8/2015 01:17:41 pm

Dear Marc,

Starting the story off with a boy trapped in a box is definitely an intriguing lure for readers. It's cool how some authors create the world of their story through the eyes of a clueless character who is figuring it out along with you, the reader. It makes you feel like you are the main character because you share the main character's lack of knowledge. I definitely can't wait to read the book!

Sincerely,
Ms. Kimball

Amy

1/9/2015 12:32:19 am

Dear Marc,

I have almost the same question as Rheona, who is they????
In your blog you said..." Who in the world would kidnap kids and stick them in a maze and force them to fight for survival?" Who took the kids? And what was the reason for it?

Sincerely,
Amy

Rheona

1/8/2015 11:39:52 am

Hi Marc,
Is there a reason why they take kids and put them in a maze? Also who is THEY?

From,
RHEONA

Marc

1/9/2015 12:33:18 am

Dear Rheona,
Sadly, I cannot tell you or else it would spoil the book. Therefore, you have to red the book to find out.

From,
Marc

Sam

1/7/2015 09:21:32 am

Dear Class,

I just started the Scorch Trials, book two of the Maze Runner series by James Dashner. Reading the first book, Maze Runner, and just recently seeing the new movie of the Maze Runner convinced me to read the second book in the series. I like the book because it's fiction but the author also throws in a couple true cool facts and studies. The book takes place a little bit in the future. Earth is completely incinerated: global warming has caused the entire earth’s surface to be completely covered in dust and sand, or so we are told. The book in a way is like the Matrix, because you can never tell what's real and what's not real that's just another reason I like the book. During the first book, when Thomas and his friends escape the maze, they find a lab on the outer rim of the maze in the lab. Bodies are found everywhere, along with a video that explains that they were being severely tested for a cure of the incinerating heat. The scientists were studying how they would react to harsh environments and scary threats. At the end of the book, a search party who says they’re not with the scientists rescues them. The rescue party could just be leading them to the next trial, having to deal with the immense heat. Or the second book could just be about figuring out who built the maze and why the scientists are studying them so harshly, to find a cure for the intense global warming heat. The third reason I'm pulled into the book is just the intense mysterious intense plot. This series could possibly be one of the best book series ever.

Sincerely,
Sam

Ms. Kimball

1/7/2015 12:54:05 pm

Dear Sam,

Isn't it cool how both you and Marc wrote about the same book but described it very differently? When I first read Marc's description, I had a hard time believing the plot. Marc described what the main character was going through, but didn't mention that the story takes place in the future in a post-apocalyptic world. Knowing that helps me understand the action he described. Now I definitely want to read the book. You guys sold me on it!

What did you think when you read the part about Thomas finding the bodies in the lab? Yikes!!

Sincerely,
Ms. Kimball

Sam

1/12/2015 01:34:42 pm

Dear Ms. Kimball,
my reaction to when Thomas found the dead bodies in the lab was like the way everybody reacted to the end of Tiger Rising when the tiger got shot. I was confused, crushed, astonished, and a tiny bit depressed. With all these ammunitions it's hard to get anything straight, you kinda have to rethink what just happened and then just let it all sink in.

Sincerely,
Sam

Sage W.

1/9/2015 12:40:18 am

Sam,

I read the Maze Runner and the Scorch Trials and I'm wondering if you think that the kids from the maze can trust that wicked is trying to do the right thing. Because thats what they say and in some ways they kinda are, but putting kids in a maze is probably not the best way to solve the flare.

Layla

1/7/2015 12:14:46 pm

Mikey

1/7/2015 12:23:19 pm

Dear Ms. Kimball,
I am currently reading a book called the Throne of Fire by Rick Riordan. This is one of the best books l have ever read. It is about two kids named Carter and Sadie who are trying to wake the legendary egyptian god Ra to stop the evil god Apophis from making the world a chaotic mess. They have to go all over the world to get the three scrolls of Ra to create the book of Ra in order to awaken him. The author does a very good job drawing the readers into the story and keeping it interesting. It has a good sense of humor to it, and there is lots of action in the story.
Sincerely,
Mikey

Rheona

1/8/2015 11:42:21 am

Hi Mikey,
I noticed that you have read MANY Rick Riordan. Why do you like him so much? Also, isn't The Throne Of Fire the second book the The Red Pyramid?

From,
Rheona

Ms. Kimball

1/8/2015 01:25:11 pm

Dear Mikey,

I, too, love books with a lot of excitement, action, and humor. I haven't yet read a Kane Chronicle book, so I'm curious, how does the author add humor to the story? From what I remember of studying ancient Egyptian gods, Ra is the sun god. I wonder why Apophis wants to make the world a chaotic mess. Did you know that there was an asteroid that scientists named Apophis? They thought had a chance of colliding with Earth and causing "doomsday". Isn't it clever how they named it Apophis? Now you know why!

Sincerely,
Ms. Kimball

Sage W.

1/7/2015 01:32:27 pm

Dear Class,

I'm currently reading Legend by Mary Lu . This book is a dystopian future book about the U.S. split in three parts, the republic, the patriots, and the colonies. The book is focused on two teenagers in the republic, one is Day someone who is fighting for his life (Criminal). And June who is the only person to get the best score on the test (The scores determines the rest of your life). Day grew up in a poor family and 2 out of 3 of them have no idea he's still alive, and when he sees that his little brother has the is infected he know he needs the medicine. While he tries to get the medicine he gets injured and is forced to spare Junes brothers life for his. June is know hunting him down so he can revenge her brothers death. I like this book because the story pulls you in, and so far never gets you bored.

Rheona

1/8/2015 11:44:26 am

Hi Sage,
Wow! You read a little bit of the book to me and it seemed VERY intense. What reading level do you think it is?

FROM,
RHEONA

Sage W.

1/9/2015 12:45:42 am

Dear Rheona,

I don't really know what the reading level of the book is but I do agree that its very intense.

Ms. Kimball

1/8/2015 01:32:05 pm

Dear Sage,

"Dystopian" is such a cool and complex word! I'm a bit confused by your summary of the story though. There are a few grammar and punctuation issues that make it hard to follow. I think it sounds like an intriguing story! There's a test, some infection, some medicine, and some teenagers fighting for their lives. Any chance you could clarify?

Sincerely,
Ms. Kimball

Amy

1/8/2015 12:45:53 am

Dear Class,

Happy new year! The book i'm reading is called : The friendship matchmaker. This book isn't a book for me. Meaning i'm not really interested in it. When you read the first chapter Lara Zany ( the one and only friendship matchmaker of Potts County Middle School. ) Tells you about how to make friends. She tells you the "rules" you HAVE to follow. Also she tells you all these abbreviations like... TL (total loner.)
Another one is LBC which means loner by choice. But when Emily (a new student) she doesn't want to make friends by Lara's rules. I mean who would, if you have a best friend who's unpopular you probably aren't allowed to be friends with them anymore. Anyways when Emily said she didn't want to make friends by Lara's rules, Lara gets mad and both of the girls go and find a TL for a friend whos also a TL. Read more to find out!

Sincerely,
Amy

Sage P

1/8/2015 10:32:18 am

Dear Amy,
I have one BIG question for you, Why are you reading a book that you don't really like? I sometimes pick up a book and try reading it and I don't like the book, and it is a horrible time reading a book that I don't like. Do you feel the same way?
From,
Sage

Amy

1/9/2015 12:38:12 am

Dear Sage,

I knew thats someone was going to ask me that question! The reason why is because once I start a book I feel like I have to finish that book. The way I see it is you can't just pick up a book and read half into it and then just leave it. One time I did that and I couldn't stop thinking about all the possibility's the story could have ended.
I don't entirely hate this book, it's just one that i dislike.

Sincerely,
Amy

Rheona

1/8/2015 11:46:00 am

Hi Amy,
Why is that book not your type, what did you not like about it?

From,
Rheona

Ms. Kimball

1/8/2015 01:35:20 pm

Dear Amy,

I have the same question that Rheona and Sage asked. Also, I think the story sounds amusing. Who created the middle school "rules"? I'm guessing you put the word rules in quotes because they are not the actual middle school rules.

Sincerely,
Ms. Kimball

Amy

1/9/2015 12:44:58 am

Dear Ms.kimball,

Well, the rules in the story aren't actually rules for the school. The are the "Best Friend Rules." Lara Zany made the rules up. She did this because once again she is the the one and only friendship matchmaker of Potts County Middle School. She thinks that she is the one with the "Heart of gold!" She thinks this because she is a LBC (loner by choice) So she helps other people before herself.
Lara Zany made up all theses rules in her Friendship guide. The book is actually an MCBA book so you can find it in the library, or you can ask me for it when i'm done with it.

Sincerely,
Amy

Sage P

1/8/2015 10:28:56 am

Dear class,

I have been reading the BEST BOOK EVER!!!! I have been reading Wonder. Wonder is about this boy named August, and August was born without a normal face. The book is really about how August goes on with his life, and all of the challenges he faces. The book is a pretty sad, because August faces some heart breaking challenges along with the book. There are people calling August names, making weird faces at him, treating him differently than he should be treated. The book is just so good and you have to go read it.
From,
Sage P

Ms. Kimball

1/8/2015 01:48:11 pm

Dear Sage,

Wonder is such a great book! I'm so glad you're enjoying. Did you know both kids and adults love the book? It's also a great book about different points of view. You may not be at the part where the point of view changes. What do you think about Auggie's parents? Sometimes I thought his mom treated him like a baby too much. What are your thoughts?

Sincerely,
Ms. Kimball

Sage P

1/9/2015 12:35:22 am

Dear Ms.Kimball,
I never knew that adults liked the book Wonder. I have in parts where the point of view has changed. I think when August's mom was babying August in the beginning of the book was a good thing, but at the end of the book August got more mature and he didn't need his mommy a lot. Thank you for responding.
From,
Sage P

Rheona

1/9/2015 12:34:48 am

Hi Sage,
I love that book, it is filled with emotion and love but also really funny at the same time! Do you think you would be like Summer or Juliann?

From,
RHEONA

Nathan

1/9/2015 02:04:14 am

Dear Sage,
I agree with you, It is at the top of the list for my best books. I even met the author and got a signed copy! :D
I was wondering, Have you finished the book? When you do, or if you have, tell me what you think of the ending!
Yours truly,
Nathan.

Kaela

1/8/2015 12:01:49 pm

Dear Ms.Kimball
I have been reading The Sisters Club. It is about 3 sisters who have a club. It is in the point of vew of the middle siste. The oldest sister Alex is a really great cater but the middle sister didn't like to perform. Alex is getting to be a teen and getting moodier. I like reading this because a have a pretty moody sister myself and I like to be able to relate to someone in a story I'm reading.
Sincerely
Kaela

Ms. Kimball

1/8/2015 01:53:28 pm

Dear Kaela,

Sounds like an interesting book. What is a "cater"? Also, how is Alex acting moody? Does she do some of the same things as your sister?

Sincerely,
Ms. Kimball

Rheona

1/9/2015 12:38:30 am

Hi Keala.
Do the sisters ever get along? Are they the kind of sisters that are best friends? Also do they have any backgrounds on their life and family?

Thanks,
RHEONA

Yubin

1/8/2015 12:16:43 pm

Dear Ms. Kimball,

One book I'm currently reading is called, "Stories of Great Composers for Children" by Thoms Tapper. This is a collection of ten short biographies of famous composers including Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, Haydn, Schubert, Chopin, etc. Each story tells about the childhood and great achievements of a composer. For example, Mozart went on a concert tour when he was only six years old. And most of Beethoven's great symphonies were composed after he lost his hearing. I like this book because it has a lot of interesting facts about the famous composers, and I can learn some lessons like all great composers without exception became famous through hard work.

Sincerely,
Yubin

Ms. Kimball

1/8/2015 01:56:31 pm

Dear Yubin,

That sounds like an amazing book! I've heard many of the musical works of these famous composers, but I don't know much about their childhoods or personal lives. You are very right that hard work can bring about great success. Do you want to be like one of the famous composers you're reading about?

Sincerely,
Ms. Kimball

Rheona

1/9/2015 12:40:02 am

Hi Yubin,
Wow! That book sounds really interesting and informative to read. Have you ever tried to or played a piece from the book?

From,
RHEONA

Forrest

1/10/2015 06:34:30 am

Dear Yubin,

The book you are reading sounds very interesting! It is amazing how there are so many different composers who once lived and are still so popular. One day that could be you! I was wondering who your favorite composer is? I cant believe Mozart went on a concert tour when he was six years old! I cant wait to here more.

Your class mate,

Forrest

Arim link

1/8/2015 12:49:00 pm

Dear Class

The book I'm reading is a book that says how to to doggy train your dog, groom your dog, clip the nails of your dog, and much much more. I like the book because it says all the things you need to do and what your responsibilities. I really need this sort of book to because I'm getting a dog and this book helps me. Even though I don't like
non-fiction books I love this one because it tells a lot of tips of how to train your dog. This is the book I'm reading now.

From Arim

Ms. Kimball

1/8/2015 01:59:04 pm

Dear Arim,

I'm so excited for you! Like you, I'm hoping to get a dog this year. However, I'm nervous about how much work it is going to be to take care of one. A book like the one you're reading would be a big help in getting future dog owners prepared for all of the responsibilities. Do you feel ready for a dog? What is one tip you learned on how to train your dog?

Sincerely,
Ms. Kimball

Rheona

1/9/2015 12:41:50 am

Hi ARIM,
That sounds like it would have many pictures, Does it? Also, What is the name of the book?

From,
RHEONA

Sofia

1/8/2015 01:25:52 pm

Class,
I started to read the book Let It Snow, which is actually by three authors. The first perspective was from a girl who's parents got arrested because they were near a group of people who were in a fight over some Christmas houses. She has to go to her grandmothers, and leave her boyfriend behind. But on the train to Florida, heavy snow falls, and the train crashes into a mound of snow. A strange yet attractive man, wearing plastic bags, let's her into his house to stay.. And that's all I'll say for now! Spoiler alert!
Sofia

Rheona

1/9/2015 12:43:10 am

Hi Sofia,
Do you know any of the other characters yet?

From,
RHEONA

Sofia

1/11/2015 01:21:54 am

Rheona,
Yes! I do! There are more characters, like the tinfoil guy, who never leaves the house without being completely covered in tinfoil! Imagine how cold that would be!
Sofia

Ms. Kimball

1/11/2015 02:07:36 am

Dear Sofia,

That sounds like such a crazy situation! I have many questions based on your brief summary, such as: Who is the girl? Why is she going to Florida? Why is there a "mound of snow" on the train tracks? Where did the man come from and who is he? How can a man be attractive when he's wearing plastic bags? Why is he wearing plastic bags? Why does the girl trust him enough to stay at his house?

I bet you know the answers to many of these questions and some of them are simple. Try to anticipate your readers' potential questions before you post your responses and write your summary so that simple "who, what, where, when, and why" questions are already answered in your original post.

Sincerely,
Ms. Kimball

Nathan

1/9/2015 02:00:21 am

Dear class,
A book I just finished is called The Books Of Elsewhere. This is the first book in the series and it is a fantasy/fiction book. The story is about a girl named Olive. Her family (the Dunwoody's) moves into a home that was passed down by a family named the McMartins. In the story, Olive meets 3 cats who reveal what the houses actually is. One day, Olive sees a boy running in one of the paintings in the house. She reaches through and finds herself in a forest . She meets a boy called Morton. He speaks about someone named “the bad man”. Suddenly, shadows start filling the forest and Morton and Olive have to start running. Next, one of the cats, Horatio, jumps in to action and leads Morton and Olive out of the painting. Olive realizes Morton cannot stay and puts him in a painting. Later on, Olive realizes more about the paintings and the house itself. Something bad happens. (Not telling because spoilers)
I would definitely suggest this book to people who are reading MCBA at the moment. Though it is a great book, I would not have came across it if it were not on MCBA.
Also, this book reminds me of 2 other books. (that were made into movies too!) One of them is Coraline, by Neil Gaiman. The other one is The lion, the witch, and the wardrobe, by C. S. Lewis. If you like either of those books (or movies) i recommend this book.

Your truly,
Nathan ;)

Ms. Kimball

1/11/2015 02:16:14 am

Dear Nathan,

Wow! What a cool concept in that book --living in paintings. That is so great that you're trying new books that are not mainstream. Congrats on finishing it!

Did the author write in a way that made the fantasy part of the story believable? Were the paintings famous paintings that people are familiar with?

You did a great job with your post not only because you summarized the story in an exciting way, but also because when you recommended the book, you connected it to other books/movies that kids would be more familiar with.

Have you ever read Neil Gaiman's "The Graveyard Book"? That was an interesting read! Consider it if you are looking for a new book. The intro will pull you right in!

Sincerely,
Ms. Kimball

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Student Work
for
Ms. Kimball's Grade 5 At Underwood, 2014-2015

Relive the greatness of this unforgettable group of students, my fabulous fifth grade class from Underwood Elementary School in Newton.