Teachable Moments: Feeling Frazzled

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

Feeling Frazzled

I have been so, so busy. I feel like I am running out of time to complete my assignments. It seems like I go from one meeting to another. As far as teaching, things seem to be going well. I am ready for Thanksgiving break but only because I need to recharge.

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Book Review: The Shack

Have you ever read something that was so interesting you could not put it down? I have just finished such a book. It was a tale of love, mystery, and faith. In this tale, the author shares a story of a Mack's quest to deal with the loss of his daughter, Missy. Missy was abducted from the family's campsite. All that was left was the calling card of the abductor, a tiny ladybug.
In Mack's search for peace, he attempts to escape his sorrow by following his heart to an old cabin in the woods. At the cabin, he spends time with three people, who represents the trinity of God. Papa was an Aunt Jemima type character who represented God. Jesus was a carpenter that was of Middle Eastern descent. Sarayu was an Asian woman. Each of these characters spent time with Mack and aided in his healing. They offer him peace and guidance in his quest for understanding.
This tale is a spiritual journey. Will Mack find peace? Why was the trinity represented by such an array of characters? Will the abducter and murderer of Missy be found? What is the significance of the ladybug? You will have to read The Shack by William P. Young to find out more.
I would recommend this book to anyone. I loved the spiritual message. At one point, I almost layed the book down and quit reading because of the representation of the trinity. I am so glad I kept reading.

Book Review: A Season of Gifts by Richard Peck

A Season of Gifts by Richard Peck is a wonderful seasonal read. In this book, Peck gives a peek into the lives of a Methodist ministers family in 1958. His oldest daughter is in love with Elvis. His son is busy working with his dad preparing their newly founded church, trying to escape the attention of the 8th grade bullies, and helping out their elderly neighbor, who by the way is a real "hoot." His youngest child becomes the elderly neighbor's shadow. This book begins in August and follows the family through December. It is a great book for all ages. I would recomend it to anyone looking for fun and entertainment wrapped up in one three part tale. It's a great way to gain an idea about life in the Midwest during the 1950's. If you like mystery, comedy, and family, then you will love this book.

Book Review: The Teacher's Funeral by Richard Peck

What would you do, if your teacher died right before school started as a kid? This book is a look at just such a situation. The story is told from the viewpoint of a 15 year old boy in 1904. You follow Russell, family and friends as a rural school district decides what to do when their teacher dies? Will they find a new teacher? OR Is this just a good reason to close the school? You will have to read "The Teacher's Funeral" by Richard Peck.
I loved this book. I have used this book in my classes. I would recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a good read. It is funny, engaging and easily to relate to for me.

Great news! Richard Peck has a new novel, "A Season of Gifts."

Book Review: Beastly by Alex Flinn

"Beastly" by Alex Flinn is a modern day tale based on Beauty and the Beast. It is done from the point of view of the Beast, Brad, who falls in love with the poor, young book worm from his school. He needs her to break the curse that has locked him a beastly body. Can she help him? Will she help him? If you like fantasy fiction, then this is a must read.

This book was recomended to me by my daughter who is 16. She loves fiction and fantasy. I chose to read the book trying to connect to a younger crowd, and I loved the original story.

This book would be great for any adult or high school age reader due to some content.