1.25.2009

Must Reads

Although I consider myself more of a math guru, as a teacher I believe that reading is the key to unknown worlds and incredible possibilities (and it will really help you in life and in math!).

I just made a list of books that I consider must reads (you can see them if you look to the right of the page). As I was thinking of books, I realized that I need to expand my list and read some new books. So I made a HUGE GOAL... during my time at Gorham Middle School, I'm going to commit to reading 10 new books. I hope I'm not getting in over my head!

Here's where you come in. I would love to hear what books are on your "must read list" AND WHY. Convince me to read one of your favorite books! (I'm planning to read mostly young adult fiction, but if another genre is suggested, I will consider it.)

I've already had some conversations with some sixth graders about the books they love. So the book I'm starting with is The City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau. I've already read a few chapters, and I can see why it is a favorite.



HELP ME CHOOSE MY NEXT BOOK!

LEAVE ME A COMMENT WITH YOUR BOOK SUGGESTIONS! (and remember to include a reason why you think I should read the book)

9 comments:

Mr. Coleman said...

What an awesome idea!!! I may have to steal this and use on my blog! I love that you are bringing the students into the discussion and giving them a chance to "sell" their favorite book to you. that is just so cool!!

mr coleman

Anonymous said...

Hi! Leah here, I think you should read REDWALL because it is british, and its so cool imagining the voices. Each character is so unique, it'll have you hooked in no time!!!!

The author of this book is Brian Jacques, like lakes, he is so amazing with his writing! He writes SO DISCRIPTIVELY!! Although, he discribes all the food... ALL the food! One feast took up an entire page and a half! Just listing them!

The story is about mice (and a few other types of woodland creatures, such as moles, a badger, and squirrels)that live peacefully in their abbey, untill Cluny the Scourge (scurrge)has decided to invade and take redwall for himself! The creatures must take action quick, or their home will be lost!

.::WARNING: YOU WILL LAUGH, CRY LIKE A HELPLESS CHILD, AND GET ANGRY DURING THIS BOOK!::.

Mrs. R said...

I agree this is a wonderful idea. Your book list looks awesome and includes a lot of my favorites as well, especially The Giver by Lois Lowry. I would suggest a short story called Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka as well as anything by Edgar Allen Poe.

Anonymous said...

I think you should read Twilight,because the author really puts you into the story.It is a great story and it would entertain both kids and adults.

mrcorcoran said...

Really cool idea, going strait to the source to find out what to read. If you want to connect with the kids through reading get them involved..awesome!
I think I'm going to read Ember next, or maybe the scorpion one,..I'm not sure. Let me know when you are done with Ember and what you think.
-Mr C.

Anonymous said...

My favorite series of books are A Series of Unfortunate Events. Lemony Snicket draws you into the book. You won't want to stop reading!

The series is about three children, Sunny, Klaus and Violet Baudelaire who become orphans when their mansion burns down. Ever since then Count Olaf a notorious villain is following them for their enormous fortune. All throughout the series he sets up schemes to get the Baudelaire fortune!

msmonroe said...

Hi Mrs. C!
I love that you are putting all of your favorite books on your blog and asking for suggestions. I know you will be able to read 10 books, especially with some of these great suggestions!
My suggestions are the Twilight Series,and Tunnels, and the book I am going to begin reading is called the Uglies. There are three other books in that series which I have heard are also great.
Happy Reading!

Anonymous said...

read the uglies series. it is about a city that before you turn 16 your considered ugly. when you turn 16 you get a surgery that they change you to look like everybody else. It is a series. theres uglies, pretties,specials,and extras wonderful series you should read it! Sincerely, Riley!

Catherine said...

I love this idea. May I steal it for my own future classroom blog?! It's such an easy way for students to start articulating book recommendations. I love that you've followed up on their recommendations! I just finished Three Cups of Tea and would recommend it as an inspiring true story of one person's ability to change the lives of many. It's also been published in a young adult version.

Ms. Menyhart