Friday, October 24, 2008

How I Choose Books

When I hear of a good book or someone recommends a book to me, the first thing I do is go to amazon.com and search for the title. Then, I read the reviews and the summary. If it sounds interesting, I write the title and author on my book wish list. I price the book on ebay and Amazon before making a purchase. Sometimes, the public library will have it. Even though I have an obsession with books, I don't like them cluttering up my home. I would rather borrow than buy.

Sometimes I choose a book because of it's cover. Does anyone else do that?

Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Comments

Readers have posted great recommendations in the comment section of my last post. Be sure to click on "comments" to hear about books others are reading!

Sunday, October 19, 2008

I Can't Believe It!

Has it really been weeks since I've posted?!?! Yes, it has and I feel terrible!

I have been reading tons of young adult literature so I can recommend books to my students. I read Catalyst by Laurie Halse Anderson. I teach Speak by the same author and many students want to know what else she has written when we finish it.

Teenage guys are loving a series by Rick Riordan. The first book is called The Lightning Thief. It has to do with Greek gods and goddesses with constant action and heart pounding excitement. I think younger kids would enjoy this, too.

Finally, I'm previewing a memoir by Elie Wiesel called Night to possibly teach in pre-AP this year. It is his personal experience in surviving the Holocaust. It has several parts that are graphic and stomach wrenching. Do I really want to tackle this in 8th grade? Probably the most disturbing is the truthfulness of his account.

Finally, finally, I am starting the 3rd House of Night book. Back to vampires!

Anyone reading anything new and exciting? I often get stuck in a rut with certain authors or genres and hearing your recommendations really help.