The Maze Runner

I’m about 3/4 through “The Maze Runner” I’ve really enjoyed it. It reminds me of many other novels I’ve read especially the classic “Lord of the Flies”. The characters are likable and easy to relate to. It is a very male centered novel even though a female is introduced about half way through. There are profound thematic issues to discuss like “survival of the fittest” “big brother voyeurism” and “genius children”. The novel is quite long and could easily be taught at the end of 6th grade or 8th grade. It could be fun to do an elaborate maze metaphor activity along with the reading. My only concern is the characters “dialect” of sorts. They have created their own language using words like “shuck” which feels like a pejorative for the “f” word. I hate pejoratives. I thought maybe the author was English and therefore the loose use of the pejorative. After some investigation I discovered he grew up in Georgia. Hmmmm. Plus it’s the first in a trilogy. Ohhhh gosh trilogies are hard to teach. I’ll need to see how the ending works.

I Finished "If I Stay"

I finished this novel. I didn't intend to move so quickly it just happened. Honestly - easy, light, girl-centered read. Nothing to analyze or discuss - not layered at all. I couldn't teach it. Lots of cursing and I think the main character is just too old (17). Now, some of my 8th grade girls could relate to her but it just wouldn't be effective for an entire class.

I liked the idea that the protagonist is stuck in limbo and the reader learns about her family through flashback. That was kind of interesting. She has the coolest parents ever - but her character is not multidimensional - again a worthy read for an 8th grade girl, especially a musician. Music is a large part of the plot structure. Should we move on to Maze Runner?

"If I Stay"

I ordered If I Stay from my library and it came in. I decided to give it a whirl - Hmmmm I'm divided. It's very girl centered. I could recommend it to students but probably not as a classroom novel. I'm about 1/3 through and it's been an easy read. While I see why it's called the adolescent version of "Lovely Bones" it is in no way as moving or poetic. If everyone is still interested then I'm happy to consider this our monthly book otherwise we can go with The Maze Runner. So far If I Stay has been an easy read.

Dec-Jan Book

Looks like it's two votes for "If I Stay" and two for "Maze Runner" does anyone want to be the tie breaker? I'm up for either.

Nobody - finally put to rest

I finished Graveyard - wow tough book for me. I was excited as the action finally began to rise towards the end but then disappointed when Scarlett is forced to forget Nobody. Overall this book was a disappointment for me. I liked some of the historical elements but I just couldn't invest. There were so many elements I felt were thrown in and then abandoned. I can see why some kids would find it appealing but not much to teach. Big question - Why is the character called "Nobody"? I kept waiting for the irony, did I miss it?

Alison Mazurkiewicz's Comments "Graveyard"

my thoughts on the Graveyard book.
I thought the 1st chapter was a little bit shocking. Gosh, a whole
family except for the baby is murdered. Ouch.
I see why the author does this to grab you to find out why, but, did
they all have to die? It is fiction, and I guess
a horror book. I did enjoy finding out how this boy lived and got
along in the graveyard. Really enjoyed the descriptions of
all of the various old world type of characters and their different
type of language usage (from a long time ago).
I found this book more readable than Edgar (length and flowed better
for younger readers). Evil and good are very
easy to distinguish in this book. Obviously the ending says that more
adventures can be in store for Bod.
Overall, I enjoyed this book.
I am going back to finish Sawtelle. I made it to about page 370, so
have to finish it now.

I vote for "The Maze Runner"

I know it's been mentioned that we should entertain a more light hearted read. If someone has a suggestion I'm all for it. Honestly, some of the best dicussion comes from troubled worlds and characters. I currently vote for "The Maze Runner". It sounds like there are both male and female characters present. Please voice your opinions:)