I am excited to announce our new novel studies...
Reading:
Maniac Magee is a very funny, sometimes touching, story of Jeffrey Lionel "Maniac" Magee, a young man who is a legend in his youth. He performs phenomenal athletic feats, yet he shows wisdom and insight far greater than are normal for his age. The book is a combination of realistic fiction, humor, folklore, and even a little legend. This novel was penned by acclaimed author Jerry Spinelli. The major lessons are about race, prejudice, and the importance of family and friends. These themes are presented in a way that is easy for kids to understand and apply...making a larger impact on younger minds.
Advanced Reading:
The Giver, one of my all time favorite books, will be our next study. Lois Lowry's The Giver tells the story of Jonas, who lives in a futuristic society and who, until the age of twelve, has led a peaceful and normal, albeit regulated, life. There is no prejudice, since everyone looks and acts basically the same, and there is very little competition. Jonas's world is perfect. Everything is under control. There is no war or fear or pain. There are no choices. Every person is assigned a role in the Community. When Jonas turns twelve he is singled out to receive special training from The Giver. The Giver alone holds the memories of the true pain and pleasure of life. Jonas will receive the truth with his new job, and we learn that Jonas' world is not so perfect after all!
