In the High Peaks
















Saturday, December 8, 2012

Christmas Reading and Winter Break Intentions

So far my Christmas-related reading has gone bust. Every title I try seems trite and stupid. Actually, my beleagured mind could benefit from a trite and stupid read at this point, because I am unutterably exhausted, but these books are not doing the trick! I'm in desperate need--if you have a title to suggest, please do!

I'm still reading bits at a time of Paul Auster's Winter Journal and am still enjoying it immensely.

I have once again misplaced my Kindle. Who knows where it is now? I have not a clue why this happens to the Kindle. It is a very slim tablet, it's true. My Nook is available, however.

I am rereading the following American children's book classics to be prepared for my students' final exam: The Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O'Dell, The Witch of Blackbird Pond by Elizabeth George Speare, Charlotte's Web by E.B. White, and The Hundred Dresses by Eleanor Estes.

I highly recommend the first three titles for adults. I guarantee you will enjoy them and they're all quick, though deep reads. They all won the Newbery Medal and are absolutely outstanding American classics.

On my break from teaching, even though I'm going to be working guiding winter nature trips, I want to read the following books: Flight Behavior by Barbara Kingsolver (one of my favorite American authors) and Sweet Tooth by Ian McEwan, who is another favorite author of mine. I am so in tune with his sensibility that I'm never, never disappointed by anything he writes.

HOPES FOR 2013: I do want to make reading books a priority again.

I have classes through Dec. 13th. Then loads of papers and exams to grade. Oy!

5 comments:

  1. I think Newberry winners are just about always very good reads for adults. They tend to be a bit iffy for children, though. Enjoy Winter's Tale.

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    1. C.B. and Dakota,
      My reply just got swallowed up!

      Yes, having taught 6th grade for ten years and worked in a children's bookstore for three, I completely agree with you, with a number of exceptions.

      Charlotte's Web is a title that most children enjoy, especially those who have had some, however limited, exposure to rural life.

      Best,
      Judith

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  2. hope you get some reading in on your time off ,all the best stu

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  3. Stu,
    I definitely plan to! You will hear more after about a week's time!

    Judith

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  4. Sounds good. Look forward to the reviews.

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