Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins Publisher: Scholastic Press (August 24th, 2010) Reading Level: Young Adult Hardcover: 390 pages Series: The Hunger Games book #3 Rating: 4 of 5 stars Against all odds, Katniss Everdeen has survived the Hunger Games twice. But now that she’s made it out of the bloody arena alive, she’s still not safe. The Capitol is angry. The Capitol wants revenge. Who do they think should pay for the unrest? Katniss. And what’s worse, President Snow has made it clear that no one else is safe either. Not Katniss’s family, not her friends, not the people of District 12. Powerful and haunting, this thrilling final installment of Suzanne Collins’s groundbreaking The Hunger Games trilogy promises to be one of the most talked about books of the year. Review: This is late but I did want to share my thoughts on the last book of The Hunger Games trilogy. I normally try to stay away from spoilers in reviews but with this one it was pretty difficult to do that. Suzanne Collins created a world that many could have never imagined, but through her words she painted a picture of Panem, its districts, and the characters that live there. This series captured so many who fell in love with Katniss, Peeta, Gale and the others who make up this incredible story.
The way Suzanne Collins tells a story blows me away. She isn't afraid to talk about difficult topics or show the hard facts of violence. The depth and heartache of her characters can be felt on each page. Mockingjay continued with the pattern we saw in the previous books and carried on with the story of Katniss as she struggles with everything going on around her.
* Spoilers * Mockingjay, like the other books in The Hunger Games series, deals with war, violence, and loss. These difficult topics are handled in a way that I can only describe as"real". I did completely enjoy this book and it kept me gripped to the pages but I don't feel totally satisfied after reading it. Even with that, I gave it 4 stars because it goes so far beyond typical books and the story is still one of the best I have ever read.
First, the characters seemed more"disconnected" to me. They had very little interaction, and when they did, it was awkward or seemed forced. I missed the love Katniss had for Peeta and Gale. I didn't see the passion, the commitment, the fire that was in the previous books. I think the main reason for that was Katniss. She seemed depressed (which was completely understandable after all she had been through); however, I thought it made things a little more difficult to follow. At times the book skipped entire parts because she was gone or unconscious. She just seemed on autopilot.
The only spark of enjoyment I saw was with her interaction with Finnick. I truly enjoyed Finnick's character and the life he gave to the story. Mockingjay was so focused on the war and violence, I felt it lacked in personal enjoyment. I do understand that in Katniss's case little can be enjoyed, but for me, I needed something to hope for throughout the book.
Now, for the ending. I didn't mind the story of the Epilogue and thought it ended nicely, however, where was Gale? It was like they said"oh, he works somewhere else now." and POOF he was forgotten. I am Team Peeta all the way but c'mon, Gale was Katniss's best friend for years! He can't just be forgotten like that. Where's the Gale love?
Now, don't get me wrong, I truly loved the book! I just felt that The Hunger Games and Catching Fire created a story that just didn't seem to go as well with this one. Plus, final books carry a certain expectation and it can be difficult to find closure at the end of any series. I'm still a total Hunger Games fan and would read anything Suzanne Collins wrote. This story portrays many harsh realities that are not seen in other YA books and she did this with an incredible grace. Katniss is one of my favorite characters of all time and her fire and courage is beyond comparison.
USE GOOGLE to read a guest post by Leah Cypess on the Mockingjay Epilogue.
Find out more on Suzanne Collins and her books Suzanne Collins / Scholastic The Hunger Games
Buy from: Amazon / The Book Depository / Barnes & Noble
"I can't stop talking about this book — to everyone and anyone who will listen." — Miss Remmers
From Amazon.com...
"Katniss is a 16-year-old girl living with her mother and younger sister in the poorest district of Panem, the remains of what used be the United States. Long ago the districts waged war on the Capitol and were defeated. As part of the surrender terms, each district agreed to send one boy and one girl to appear in an annual televised event called, "The Hunger Games." The terrain, rules, and level of audience participation may change but one thing is constant: kill or be killed. When Kat's sister is chosen by lottery, Kat steps up to go in her place."
It's near impossible to not have heard about "The Hunger Games" — and for good reason. This book was phenomenal. I was immediately sucked into the book and only came up for air during class and other campus related activities.
I am sad that I waited so long, because while the general plot was still a mystery, I was prepared for the two main male characters because of all the Team Gale and Team Peeta die hard fans — but this was my own fault. I may have to give up Twitter or blogging in general when reading Catching Fire so I can catch up with the rest of the Young Adult Literature Reader World (YALRW) — I made that up, just so you know. And I was totally kidding about giving up Twitter...
I don't really have anything to say about this book that no one else has said, other than the fact that I felt like I was reading Survivor episodes. I loved it! I also really loved the whole plot idea of a government deliberately starvings its people into fear and obedience. Also, this may be slightly inappropriate, but because I finished reading The Hunger Games on Ash Wednesday, I was totally sitting through mass and making comparisons between Lenten Fast and The Hunger Games. I don't want to get into it, but if you're interested in my theory — email me!
I can't stop talking about this book — to everyone and anyone who will listen: parents, friends, residents, students, family members, English professors! I'm so excited to read "Catching Fire" — it just came to my library via ILL!
Check out Nicole's Guest Review of "The Hunger Games".
Today is our very first Friday Book Talk, English 9! Let's start by talking about one of my favorite novels and series of the year: The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins.
The Hunger Games trilogy consists of
The Hunger Games
Catching Fire
Mockingjay (out on the 24th!)
First for the book trailers:
Now for the review: The Hunger Games.
I highly recommend this novel to all students. It's a fast paced read that captivates readers from the first page. There is a movie based on the best-selling novel in 2011 — keep a look out.
There are two copies in the classroom and some in the library. Keep this series in mind when you're considering recreational reading books and books for DEAR.
"Not only was I unable to put this book down, but I was also unable to shut up about this book!" — Miss Remmers
Amazon.com...
"Against all odds, Katniss Everdeen has won the annual Hunger Games with fellow district tribute Peeta Mellark. But it was a victory won by defiance of the Capitol and their harsh rules. Katniss and Peeta should be happy. After all, they have just won for themselves and their families a life of safety and plenty. But there are rumors of rebellion among the subjects, and Katniss and Peeta, to their horror, are the faces of that rebellion. The Capitol is angry. The Capitol wants revenge."
This will be a pretty average review as I don't want to give anything away (if there's anyone else in the world who hasn't read "The Hunger Games ") and also because there are so many reviews available online of this book. But I'll do my best.:)
Not only was I unable to put this book down, but I was also unable to shut up about this book! I was telling absolutely everyone who would listen: my mother, my boyfriend, my residents, my students, even one of the Principals before an interview! While I did have to prioritize and (regretfully) lesson plans came before "CF," I took this book with me everywhere despite knowing there was little chance of me actually having time to read it.
I do have to say that "CF" didn't quite reach the epitome of standards that "The Hunger Games" set. But this could be because I was already awed by the society that Suzanne Collins created. I also thought that the actual plot of "CF" wasn't as fast paced as "The Hunger Games" and that the story apart from the beginning politics of the second novel was actually very small. I did love how, I'll be careful to not spoil anything, the "game" played out, a lot of thought went into this and it was done extremely well.
As for Team Peeta or Team Gale — I'm not really sure. I feel like Gale hasn't played a huge part in the books and their whole romance is based on the past. As readers, we are given very little insight into this relationship — it's more of assumed. While Gale may sincerely care for Katniss romantically, as a reader I've been much more exposed to Peeta's feelings for her. Yes, Gale is a great friend — but I think he's forcing the romance. So the more I think about it — the more I've decided that it is time.
This is it — for the first time I'm declaring that I am...
Guess what everyone? It is almost time for The Hunger Games movie!! Who's excited? *raises hand!!* To celebrate this epic movie release, EgmontUSA will be doing a lot to introduce people to another wonderful book and series, ASHES by Ilsa J. Bick. Like many of you, I will be at my local movie theater on Thursday night, March 22nd but I will be there for an extra reason as well. I'll be handing out some copies of ASHES to some lucky Hunger Games fans. Cool, right?! I'm sure they will be super surprised: ) If you are thinking"Well darn, I want a chance to get a copy too" this is your lucky day! EgmontUSA has been kind enough to provide me with an extra 2 copies for blog readers. YAY! I'm going to make entering super easy and fun (details below).
SHADOWS (the 2nd book in the ASHES series, will be out September 11th, 2012.
Ashes by Ilsa J. Bick Publisher: EgmontUSA (September 6th, 2011) Reading Level: Young Adult Hardback: 480 pages Series: Ashes Trilogy #1 It could happen tomorrow..
An electromagnetic pulse flashes across the sky, destroying every electronic device, wiping out every computerized system, and killing billions.
Alex hiked into the woods to say good-bye to her dead parents and her personal demons. Now desperate to find out what happened after the pulse crushes her to the ground, Alex meets up with Tom—a young soldier—and Ellie, a girl whose grandfather was killed by the EMP.
For this improvised family and the others who are spared, it’s now a question of who can be trusted and who is no longer human.
Author Ilsa J. Bick crafts a terrifying and thrilling novel about a world that could be ours at any moment, where those left standing must learn what it means not just to survive, but to live amidst the devastation.
Prize:
2 winners will receive a copy of ASHES.
Rules:
You must be at least 13 (or have permission) to enter.
Email must be provide.
Contest is US Only and ends March 23rd.
Once contacted, the winner will have 48 hours to respond.
LEAVE A COMMENT TO ENTER.
To enter, just leave me a comment telling me when (or if) you plan on seeing The Hunger Games movie. Or, you can explain what you look forward to seeing the most in the movie (certain character/certain scene).PLEASE LEAVE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS!
"I don't know about you, but during the duration of reading this book I wrote entirely in cursive. What an inspiring concept!" — Miss Remmers
From Amazon.com...
"Cassia has always trusted the Society to make the right choices for her: what to read, what to watch, what to believe. So when Xander's face appears on-screen at her Matching ceremony, Cassia knows with complete certainty that he is her ideal mate... until she sees Ky Markham's face flash for an instant before the screen fades to black.
The Society tells her it's a glitch, a rare malfunction, and that she should focus on the happy life she's destined to lead with Xander. But Cassia can't stop thinking about Ky, and as they slowly fall in love, Cassia begins to doubt the Society's infallibility and is faced with an impossible choice: between Xander and Ky, between the only life she's known and a path that no one else has dared to follow."
Why I read this: The cover and premise really intrigued me.
Plot: The plot was very similar to "The Hunger Games" in regards to the society and its' people. I love the whole idea of a Society that runs everything, it was different with "Matched" because the Society does such a great job of "taking care" of their citizens. It was so fun to follow the journey that Cassia was on as she discovered the truth about her Society. The Society was so intricately weaved, I was never bored.
Characters: I did struggle a bit with Cassia at first, simply because of the betrayal. But as the relationship between Ky and Cassia developed I found myself captivated. By the end of the novel, I was as upset and enraged as Cassia. When I turned that last page I felt as though friends were waiting for me and book #2 couldn't come any faster.
Cover: What an ABSOLUTELY beautiful cover.
Random Thoughts: I loved how important writing had become to those who don't write. I also loved that, like "The Hunger Games," it was set in a futuristic society where the government controlled the people. I have found that this is a theme that really draws readers in. The technology component was also extremely interesting; past generations had been so overwhelmed by all the technology at their every fingertip has now "de-whelmed" their people by only having the basic technologies available. They have also found that society is too materialistic, so they have rid themselves of all personal objects and purged through its histories and arts. It was absolutely FANTASTIC!
I know I keep mentioning "The Hunger Games," I don't want anyone to misinterpret this as "Matching" being a knock-off of "THG." But it's important to realize that "THG" is a story that every student in my class is talking about and I want them to know that because of the the societal similarities "Matched" and "THG" students will devour this book.
Final Thoughts: WOW! I can't stop talking about this books. On November 30th, I will be bringing a copy of this book into my classroom. I can't recommend it enough.
A huge part of the curriculum in my English 9 class is Reading. Every Friday is Recreational Reading Day — this is a nonnegotiable; it's not something where if we get behind during the week we can make it up on Friday and then read. We find another time to make it up — Friday is purely reading.
Students are required to read two recreational novels a quarter and turn in literary analyses for them. So, if I have 140 students and (let's just say) the all turn in the required two analyses — that is 280 analyses. But, I also offer extra credit for completing a third! So (and this is going out on a huge stretch) I could possibly have over 400 literary analyses to look at by the end of the QUARTER and over 800 by the end of the SEMESTER.
Oh what a great life.
But really, if I had to rate all the grading I do (pun intended) grading these analyses would be my favorite. I love hearing what my students thought about what read and what they didn't like.
Last semester I sort of "dropped the ball" when it came to book talks because I didn't think they were working; I thought that the students were just sort of sitting through it to appease me and that they weren't getting anything out of it.
Boy was I wrong.
During Christmas Break I spent an evening and put all the papers together in alphabetical order by title; while doing this I saw some definite patterns — especially in regards to books on my shelves that I had talked about or pitched to students, most namely "The Hunger Games" and "Beastly."
I did book talk "I Am Number Four" at the beginning of the year and a student raced to the front of the room (no joke) to ask to borrow it first. Unfortunately, when I got it back it was in such bad shape that I took it off my shelves. Many other students asked about it, but because I didn't have it on my shelves and they would actually have to, oh I don't know, go down to the library to reserve it, not many of those interested read it. Now, you may think this ridiculous on my part — why let a books poor appearance keep me from lending it out? Well, "I Am Number Four" was one of my favorite reads for 2010, it was the first book I received at BEA10, it is signed, it is an ARC, and, again, it was a GREAT read and the kid TORE it to pieces! I mean the spine was cracked in more than five places, the pages were dog eared at every chapter (had he not HEARD of using a book mark!?!), there were BITE marks on the cover, and the back cover was torn off — you tell me, love of a book or book abuse?
Anyway, for last semester I collected 406 literary analyses (obviously everybody didn't get their work turned in). Of those analyses:
Beastly — 9 (2.2%)
The Hunger Games — 11 (2.7%)
While those numbers are rather tiny, when you take into account how many literary analyses I collected you can assume that more than one students from each of my five English classes listened to what I had to say. While bleak, some days all I want to do is reach one student out of them all combined! These percentages show me that on some days, my kids actually listen to me. I'll definitely be bringing Book Talks back this semester and I can't wait to see the patterns that emerge in May.
This week I'd like to welcome Nicole, from Books and Bards, as this week's Guest Reviewer! Check out her original review here!
******************* In the not-too-distant future, the continent of North America has become Panem, a totalitarian country divided into twelve territories. Every year, each district is required to send a tribute of a young boy and girl, chosen by lottery, to fight to the death like gladiators while the nation watches on live television. Sixteen-year-old Katniss lives with her mother and sister in the most impoverished section one of the poorest districts, where she must illegally hunt in the forbidden woods to stay ahead of starvation. When her younger sister, Prim, is drawn for the Hunger Games, Kat steps in and volunteers in her place. And just like that, she is shipped off to the Capitol, along with Peeta, the baker’s son, to fight for her life. I love novels that disturb or unsettle me. Needless to say, I gobbled this one in a single sitting, completely transfixed and desperate to find out how it ends.
The writer in me admires Suzanne Collins to pieces, and I couldn't help geeking out over her command of language and her spareness of words. One thing that turns me off to a lot of sci-fi is authors who get bogged down in conveying every minute detail of the brilliant world they've created. Collins conveys just enough necessary detail to serve the story and lets the rest take care of itself. Her sci-fi world, filled with brutality and speckled with genetically engineered creatures, is merely a backdrop for the struggles of a cast of complex and believable characters.
Katniss, an ace with a bow and arrow, is a fascinating heroine--sort of Annie meets Huck Finn. I have to confess I found myself girl-crushing on her a bit while hanging out in her head and seeing this twisted version of the world through her eyes. One of the things I love about this book is the way Collins draws upon both classical literature and pop culture, blending them seamlessly together to tap into certain universal fears of the human psyche. The story has its roots in the Greek myth of King Minos, whose son died on a state visit to Athens. Furious, Minos captured Athens and imposed a harsh punishment: Every nine years, Athens must send him seven of its young men and seven maidens, whom he then fed to his Minotaur.
On the sci-fi end of the spectrum, Collins weaves in an element of reality television gone wrong, with a bloodthirsty nation devouring the brutal spectacle on TV, placing bets on who will win, and demanding more excitement when the games become stagnant. Beforehand, the tributes are trussed like turkeys, interviewed, and sized up on camera. Once inside the arena, they form alliances, calculate strategies, and receive unexpected boons (or hindrances) from the hidden but omnipresent gamemakers. It’s Survivor meets Lord of the Flies.
At the core of this novel is the question of humanity, and what it means to be human. As Kat forms alliances of her own, she grapples with the realization that she will have to slaughter people she has come to care about and confronts the question of whether survival is worth the loss of her humanity, especially knowing her beloved sister may starve back at home without her. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, carried along by Kat's determination to survive and to not be subdued by the atrocities she witnesses. I was frequently horrified, occasionally touched, and always on the edge of my seat, waiting for the next twist. Find out what other people think about this book! Alea — Pop Culture Junkie ******************* Thank you so much Nicole for an awesome review — I've been meaning to read this forever! If anyone else has a great book to recommend to high school students, please email me (my profile has the address). Check out this post for more information on how to become a guest reviewer. Please share some book love and check out Nicole's blog, Books and Bards. Thanks again, Nicole!
"It's a bit hard to review such a talked about book. I don't have really anything to add besides: AMAZING!" — Miss Remmers
From Amazon.com...
"Against all odds, Katniss Everdeen has survived the Hunger Games twice. But now that she’s made it out of the bloody arena alive, she’s still not safe. The Capitol is angry. The Capitol wants revenge. Who do they think should pay for the unrest? Katniss. And what’s worse, President Snow has made it clear that no one else is safe either. Not Katniss’s family, not her friends, not the people of District 12."
It's a bit hard to review such a talked about book. I don't have really anything to add besides: AMAZING!
Why I read this: This is clearly obvious. The Hunger Games was fantastic. Period.
Plot: Fast-paced and captivating, Mockingjay did not disappoint. While the ending was a bit abrupt and not as romantically enhanced as I would have preferred, it kept my interest. The ending plot line was absolutely fantastic and heartbreaking at the same time, but it was the perfect ending (except romantically...) .
Characters: The beloved characters of The Hunger Games are still the same beloved characters, sort of. I found Katniss to be less self-centered and whiny and then there's... well, you know. At first this dramatic character change upset me, but now that I've had time to think about it, I realize it made the story that much more intense. I did feel a lack of character connection throughout the novel, even in the Epilogue. This made me sad simply because I needed that connection as closure. But, who am I?
Cover: Perfect for the story. I love it!
Random Thoughts: Absolutely a fantastic read! Thank goodness it was "Recreational Reading" day in all of my classes! What a great invention! Without giving anything away, I'm just going to say: TEAM PEETA!
Final Thoughts: Highly recommended (obviously)! I can't wait to talk about this book with my students who read it in the future!
Comments, of course, are always appreciated. But please remember not everyone has read the book yet; I don't want to indirectly be responsible for spoilers being leaked to unexpecting students/readers. Please be "spoiler conscious."
The purpose of buying all the books, going to BEA, and blogging in the first place was for my students. It's the end of the week and I am SO proud to say — it all worked and it was worth it. Many students have meandered around my bookshelves looking at the books. In the past four days I have "checked out" six books to students and I thought you'd be interested to hear what the first ten books were that came off my shelves and into students' hands.
"Shiver" (Wednesday)
"Hush, Hush" (Wednesday)
"The Hunger Games" (Thursday)
"The Island: Book One" (Thursday)
"The Way of the Sword" (Thursday)
"The Hunger Games" (Thursday)
"The Lightning Thief" (Friday)
"Son of the Mob: Hollywood Hustle" (Friday)
"Sea" (Friday)
"Son of the Mob" (Friday)
Seeing these beloved books in the hands of my students is an extraordinary feeling. Yes, there is a moment where I see the student cracking the spine and folding back pages where I gasp and think "WAIT!!!" but in the end, books can be re-purchased (even signed ones) whereas a love of reading cannot.
Well now hold up! If we’re talking about THE UNDERTAKERS, then don’t call ‘em zombies! Zombies are slow and stupid, while Corpses – the villainous invaders who animate the dead and wear them like suits of clothing – are fast, smart and well organized. They project an illusion of normalcy around themselves, so that 99.999% of the world see ordinary men and women. Only kids, and only a few kids, are “lucky” enough to be able to penetrate these masks, and spot the rotting cadavers underneath.
So, to answer the question: you don’t.
Not unless you’re an Undertaker.
2. Can you give us a teaser from Queen of the Dead?
Thirteen-year-old Will Ritter and the rest of the Undertakers have won their first victory, but the celebration is cut short when a new threat emerges through the Void between worlds. Lilith Cavanugh, the Queen of the Dead, is even more ruthless and dangerous than her predecessor, and her ambitions are even more sinister.
To defeat her, the Undertakers will need to prevent an assassination, rescue Will’s family, and somehow convince a skeptical F.B.I. agent that their cause is just. But how to you convince a grown-up that monsters are real?
3. Are you addicted to any TV shows? What do you watch in your spare time?
I am a crazed Doctor Who fan and have been since I was a teenager. When it’s on, it’s my favorite show. When it’s not, I mourn it and wait for my other favorite shows: Fringe, The Walking Dead, How I Met Your Mother and NCIS!
4. What are some of your favorite Young Adult novels?
I enjoyed the Harry Potter and Percy Jackson series. I loved Suzanne Collins’ Hunger Games Trilogy. But my favorites in YA have to Jackie Kessler, A. S. King and Heather Brewer! YA has come a long way since I was a kid, when Nancy Drew the Hardy Boys were about the only games in town. It’s edgier now, more challenging, and I think that’s being reflected in the number of young readers we’re picking up out there.
The Undertakers: Queen of the Dead by Ty Drago Publisher: Sourcebooks (October 1st, 2012) Reading Level: Young Adult/Middle Grade Paperback: 432 pages Series: The Undertakers, #2 Twelve -year old Will Ritter and his rag-tag army of teenage resistance fighters may have triumphed over the Zombies last time, but that's the thing about the dead: they keep coming back.
A new Corpse leader has crossed the rift and taken command of the invasion: The Queen of the Dead is even more brilliant and ruthless than her predecessor, and her ambitions are even deadlier. Will and the crew must somehow rescue his mother, prevent an assassination, and show FBI Agent Ramirez the truth about the Corpses-and the danger the world faces.
But how do a bunch of kids prove to a grown-up that monsters are real?
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HOW THE TOUR WORKS Each day of The Crossroads Blog Tour, a new research question will be revealed on The Crossroad Blog Tour main page: http://judithgraves.com/events/the-crossroads-tour/crossroads-2012/ and each day the answer to that question will be found within one of the different blog posts by Crossroads Tour authors. Your job is to get the question, read the blog posts, and collect all answers by the end of the tour. Answers are to be emailed to judithgraves @ ymail dot com by October 28th at MIDNIGHT. Winner of the grand prize will be announced on OCTOBER 31st – HALLOWEEN. The GRAND PRIZE you’re vying for? A brand new KINDLE, preloaded with a title from each of the participating Crossroads Blog Tour Authors. That’s right folks, a free KINDLE and 13 free EBOOKS!
Remember a couple weeks ago when I mentioned that I had been approved to begin teaching "The Hunger Games" to a class of freshmen? It's about time for an update.
After the initial introduction to the book and to Suzanne Collins, I told my students that we would be reading "The Hunger Games." Then, right after everyone had finished Chapter One, midterms happened. So we spent most of our time "getting caught up" in other classes (this class isn't English 9, it's called Reading Skills and is for students who particularly struggle. It's meant to be sort of a glorified study hall).
After that "hot mess," I tried to get the students back on track. But I found that they just refused to read on their own. So I read Chapter Two aloud... and they loved it. They listened so quietly I thought they were sleeping. They answered all my questions at the end and they begged for more the next day. It was a fantastic "teaching moment." Because my read-a-loud of Chapter Two was an impromptu lesson, I didn't remember exactly what had happened during that particular chapter. As I was reading along I realized that this was the chapter where Peeta was introduced and where Katniss' relationship with her sister and with her mother was really explored.
Allow me to "Set the Scene" for you:
The classroom was completely quiet. My students were all watching me and waiting to find out what was going to happen after Prim's name was called at the Reaping. As I'm sitting in my chair in the middle of the room reading aloud, I realize what's happening in the text. I continue reading; when I get to the part where Katniss comes to and races towards Prim to volunteer (is this a spoiler?) my voice wavers and my arm hairs raise in anticipation. I feel my face growing hot and I fear tears are about to escape my ducts (I'm trying to poetic... obviously). But, because I'm a professional, I fight through the sadness and continue reading.
It was the most fantastic experience. Now, I've only read "THG," "CF," and "MJ" once (so far) so it's all still pretty new to me. But I had no idea such emotions would resurface while reading this novel aloud. It was a haunting experience, especially after just having finished "MJ."
Since then, I have had a few other emotional teaching moments while reading aloud to my students but none that really strike me as hard as this one did. Whether you've read "THG" once, twice, or a million times before — I highly suggest reading it out loud, even if only for yourself. While we're only on Chapter Five, I've found that the novel is SO much more powerful (is that even possible?) when read aloud.
Today I walked out of Barnes and Noble with twenty copies of The Hunger Games, yes... TWENTY! Yesterday I found out that my proposal to teach "The Hunger Games" to my 9th Grade Reading Skills class. I am extremely excited to start this adventure. I'm positive that this is the book to get my reluctant readers hooked on reading. I feel extremely lucky and blessed to be in a school district that is so accepting (and willing to fund) new ventures.
This week I'd like to welcome Dominique from Coffee Stained Pages as our Guest Reviewer.
****************************** From Amazon.com...
"When Ellie and her friends go camping, they have no idea they're leaving their old lives behind forever. Despite a less-than-tragic food shortage and a secret crush or two, everything goes as planned. But a week later, they return home to find their houses empty and their pets starving. Something has gone wrong--horribly wrong. Before long, they realize the country has been invaded, and the entire town has been captured--including their families and all their friends. Ellie and the other survivors face an impossible decision: They can flee for the mountains or surrender. Or they can fight."
John Marsden’s The Tomorrow Series is easily Australia’s most popular young adult series. The book definitely lived up to its hype and popularity; I polished it off in only two sittings. Tomorrow, When the War Began is told from the point of view of Ellie, a sixteen-year-old “rural” from fictional country-town Wirrawee. She and her friends go bush for a few days, attempting to reach the practically inaccessible Hell, a remote valley. With great difficulty they climb The Devil’s Staircase leading to it and then squeeze through metres of rock in a small cave before finally arriving in Hell, which they find to be a beautiful, hidden sanctuary from the pressures of life. When they emerge and travel home they find their homes empty of their families, their pets dead and all power and electricity shut off. Australia has been invaded by an unnamed foreign power while they were gone and almost everyone in the town has been captured. During their short trip their lives changed forever and now Ellie and her friends must fight to maintain their freedom and plan how to survive as guerillas. Tomorrow, When the War Began is different to the norm of the dystopic genre; it lacks the oppressive social structure and rules of a totalitarian regime, instead it features characters trying to resist capture by an invading force yet to fully establish itself. It’s still dystopic, but it focuses on that period where a power is taking over, a time traditionally only briefly recapped or left a mystery in most other novels of this genre (eg The Giver by Lois Lowry, The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins, The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood and the list goes on). The idea of a foreign nation becoming jealous of all the space at the disposal of Australians while their people are crammed together in slums, then deciding to invade it and colonise it, capturing Australians and intending for them later to become menial workers is an interesting one. A large percentage of Australians, mainly the middle to lower-income earners, have an irrational fear of Australia becoming overrun with refugees and immigrants. Regularly stories of asylum seekers entering our waters in rickety boats receive wide coverage and national debate, with the government maintaining a tough stance on the issue to keep voters happy. It’s very much an irrational fear considering “More than 1,600 boat people have arrived off Australia’s northwest coast this year, mainly people fleeing violence in Afghanistan and Sri Lanka. The numbers are small compared with the tens of thousands of asylum seekers sailing across the Mediterranean to Europe each year.” It’s even more of a ludicrous fear since “as of June 30 (2009), a total of 48,456 people had overstayed their visa” in Australia, mostly English tourists. In Tomorrow, When the War Began Marsden plays on this fear, while never identifying the invader, and apparently no country fits the description that evolves throughout the series. Marsden’s writing is tense and maintains a sense of urgency throughout the novel, making for an engaging experience. He establishes its sense of place expertly, capturing the essence of small town Australian life and culture without hamming it up for the international readers, something that really irritates me about some novels set in Australia. According to the Author’s Note at the end of the book Hell is based on Terrible Hollow, in the Australian Alps. Nicola Outdoors has some great pictures of the area up on her site, for anyone who’s interested. Tomorrow, When the War Began is full of action, from combat, to concealment, hunting and hiding to infighting and a bit of the romantic variety of action too. Marsden’s characters are brave and likeable, and with compassion he examines how the adolescents deal with the violence and the emotional turmoil of an invasion. ****************************** Dominique, thank you so much for this great review! It sounds like a one of a kind read! Please visit Dominique at Coffee Stained Pages, share some book love, and read the original review.
A few weeks ago I received an email that brought tears to my eyes. Tina from Book Couture had wrote me just to tell me how much she enjoyed my blog. It blew me away that, not only did someone really enjoy my blog, but would take time out just to write me to tell me. Wow! Those comments and emails will always mean the world to me. Thank you so much Tina for making me feel like I am doing something right: )
Today Tina will be discussing The Seven Deadly Sins!
Hi! I'm Tina, an Aussie teenage book blogger who spends a great chunk of her time at Book Couture, where I write book reviews, participate in memes, and aim to spread knowledge of blogger through my tutorials.
My primary goal for Book Couture is to recommend good books to other people. The most fulfilling thing for me would be if someone decided to pick up a book I recommend, and enjoy it as much as I did. The thought that someone else out there could be as moved as I am through reading the same story, experiencing the same magic that it evokes, is what moved me to create my own blog.
I'm also the founder and co-moderator of the Book Contest Directory, a listing of book contests across the blogosphere. Feel free to check it out for contests galore!
My favourite genres are fantasy (Harry Potter), paranormal (Vampire Academy), science fiction (Ender's Game, The Hunger Games), historical (The Luxe), and contemporary/chick lit (think Meg Cabot). Although I started my blog initially to read more reviews about books, and record my own opinions, I have found something more — a lively community of bloggers that share stories and listen to each other's thoughts.
Sometimes, I'll even find the special blogger out there who is willing to help out a newbie. You know who I"m talking about — Jess @ Confessions of a Bookaholic, of course! Thank you, Jess, for featuring me today.
Guest post: The Seven Deadly Sins The Seven Deadly Sins, also known as the Cardinal Sins or the Capital Vices, dates back to as early as the 14th century. The Catholic Church needed a classification of common immoral human vices to educate people against sinning, and as 7 was seen as a number of power, the Seven Deadly Sins was formed.
This theme is commonly used in art, sculpture, scripture, and literature. Think of the Keys to the Kingdom series by Garth Nix, where Arthur Penhaligon battles seven Demesnes of the House, each possessed by a deadly sin. Or Star Trek: Seven Deadly Sins, where each deadly sin is linked to a Trek race.
Sometimes, the Seven Deadly Sins are also related to other themes with 7 concepts. For example, the seven angels that fell from grace by rebelling against God, becoming demons, were associated to the Seven Deadly Sins by Peter Binsfeld.
What are the Seven Deadly Sins?
Pride/Vanity
Pride or Vanity is the love of oneself, and the belief that one is superior to others. It is the desire to be better, greater, or stronger, and is considered to be the greatest of all sins. It is associated with the demon Lucifer.
Greed/Avar
Greed or Avarice is one of the three sins of excess (the other two being Lust and Gluttony), but greed pertains to the idea of desiring more wealth, status or power than required. It is associated with the demon Mammon.
Lust
Lust is also one of the three sins of excess, and is applied to those who have excessive sexual thoughts and desires.
It is associated with the demon Asmodeus.
Gluttony
Gluttony, the final sin of excess, is the sin of over indulgence and consumption of food or alcohol to the point of waste. It is associated with the demon Beelzebub.
Envy
Envy is the strong sin of desiring what is not yours, and resenting others for having what you do not have. It is associated with the demon Leviathan.
Wrath
Wrath is pure hatred or anger towards something/someone. It is uncontrolled, and leads to violence or self-destruction. It is associated with the demons Satan and Amon.
Sloth
Sloth is the sin of being lazy and apathetic towards something. It may also mean that one's gifts or talents are not utilised. It is associated with the demon Belphegor.
All the beautiful Seven Deadly Sins art is by Marta Dahlig (blackeri) on Deviantart.
Personally, I think my Deadly Sin is Sloth — I procrastinate way too much. Whenever I settle down in front of the computer to do some homework, I will inevitably end up on Book Couture, or I'll be surfing around on other blogs. Then there's Facebook, Twitter and Youtube. In the blink of an eye, it's midnight, I haven't done any work, and I'm cursing myself for getting distracted. So I'm definitely a sloth. But don't tell anyone *winks*.
I had starred this post awhile ago — like in April at Good Books and Good Wine and have been meaning to put together a post. I can now cross this off my endless To Do list!
I did okay (read 24/100) — but I'd like to have done much better. I look forward to reevaluating where I stand later on in the year!
Read On my TBR List
100. Hate List by Jennifer Brown 99. Abhorsen Trilogy by Garth Nix 98. A Northern Light by Jennifer Donnelly 97. Among The Hidden by Margaret Peterson Haddix 96. Blood and Chocolate by Annette Curtis Claus 95. Forever by Judy Blume 94. The Goose Girl by Shannon Hale 93. Tithe by Holly Black 92. Living Dead Girl by Elizabeth Scott 91. Wings by Aprillynne Pike 90. An Abundance of Katherines by John Green 89. Angus, Thongs And Full Frontal Snogging by Louise Rennison 88. Marked by PC And Kristin Cast 87. Maximum Ride series by James Patterson 86. The Perks of Being A Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky 85. 13 Little Blue Envelopes by Maureen Johnson 84. I Am The Messenger by Markus Zusak 83. Maniac Magee by Jerry Spinelli 82. The Mediator series by Meg Cabot 81. The Truth About Forever by Sarah Dessen 80. Elsewhere by Gabrielle Zevin 79. The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald 78. Along For The Ride by Sarah Dessen 77. Evernight by Claudia Gray 76. If I Stay by Gayle Foreman 75. Life As We Knew It series by Susan Beth Pfeffer 74. Wondrous Strange by Lesley Livingston 73. The Iron King by Julie Kagawa 72. Alana: The First Adventure series by Tamora Pierce 71. Stardust by Neil Gaiman 70. Unwind by Neil Shusterman 69. Walk Two Moons by Sharon Creech 68. Paper Towns by John Green 67. Perfect Chemistry by Simone Elkeles 66. A Tree Grows In Brooklyn by Betty Smith 65. Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli 64. The Curious Incident Of The Dog In The Night Time by Mark Haddon 63. The Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O'Dell 62. Blue Bloods series by Melissa De La Cruz 61. Go Ask Alice by Anonymous 60. The Absolutely True Diary of a Part Time Indian by Sherman Alexie 59. Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbitt 58. Just Listen by Sarah Dessen 57. Eragon by Christopher Paoloni 56. Morganville Vampires series by Rachel Caine 55. The Vampire Diaries by LJ Smith 54. Fallen by Lauren Kate 53. The Little Princess by Frances Hodgson Burnett 52. The Princess Diaries series by Meg Cabot 51. Inkheart series by Cornelia Funke 50. Number The Stars by Lois Lowry 49. Lord Of The Flies by William Golding 48. The Maze Runner by James Dashner 47. The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants series by Ann Brashares 46. Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver 45. The Summoning series by Kelley Armstrong 44. Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher 43. Wintergirls by Laurie Halse Anderson 42. Ender's Game series by Orson Scott Card 41. Howl's Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones 40. Wake series by Lisa McMann 39. The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman 38. Are You There God? It's Me Margaret by Judy Blume 37. Looking For Alaska by John Green 36. The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett 35. A Great And Terrible Beauty series by Libba Bray 34. His Dark Materials trilogy by Phillip Pullman 33. Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte 32. Romeo And Juliet by William Shakespeare 31. The Dark Divine by Bree Despain 30. Wicked Lovely series by Melissa Marr 29. Forest of Hands And Teeth by Carrie Ryan 28. Holes by Louis Sacher 27. The Outsiders by SE Hinton 26. The Catcher In The Rye by JD Salinger 25. The Princess Bride by William Goldman 24. Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson 23. The Diary of Anne Frank by Anne Frank 22. Uglies series by Scott Westerfield 21. Beautiful Creatures by Margaret Stohl and Kami Garcia 20. Poison Study series by Maria V. Snyder 19. Book Thief by Markus Zusak 18. Ella Enchanted by Gail Carlson Levine 17. Vampire Academy series by Richelle Mead 16. Hush, Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick 15. Little Women by Louisa May Alcott 14. Anne of Green Gables series by LM Montgomery 13. The Giver by Lois Lowry 12. The Mortal Instruments series by Cassandra Clare 11. Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater 10. Chronicles of Narnia by CS Lewis 9. A Wrinkle In Time series by Madeline L'engle 8. Graceling series by Kristin Cashore 7. Percy Jackson And The Olympians by Rick Riordan 6. Nick And Norah's Infinite Playlist by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan 5. Pride And Prejudice by Jane Austen 4. To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee 3. Twilight series by Stephanie Meyer 2. Harry Potter series by JK Rowling 1. The Hunger Games series by Suzanne Collins
Hey everyone. We wanted to do a wrap-up post to thank everyone for all your hard work. You have blogged, vlogged, facebooked, and tweeted about our team, changed your avatars to Dauntless buttons, added the buttons to your pages, shared your fears and accomplishments, and truly showed your Dauntless pride! We cannot thank you enough for your effort. You all went above and beyond to help us out and it was so incredible to have so much support. We will post the Street Team winners on the 1st. Now, it's time to share more answers to the question"Why do you want to join the Dauntless faction" Dauntless are the brave, they don't let anything define them! They are free and determined. I want to join the Dauntless faction because I am free and determined and this is where i belong! - Book Sisterhood
I wish to join the Dauntless faction because it feels like I would belong there. <3 - Carina's Books
In Diveregent, I related most towards the dauntless faction I try to as determined as possible, sometimes it can even be a bad thing. I am impulsive like the dauntless of the book. - Danasquare
I want to be Dauntless because I believe courage and bravery are the most important qualities a person can have! It's not always easy to be courageous; in fact, it's one of the hardest things for a person to do. I admire bravery more than anything else in the world. Also, I really like ziplines! - Freeverse
I have become fearless in the face of being a single parent. I have faced a parents worse fear in seeing my son be treated as the"second-best" to his fathers DOG. To seeing him take all his daily medications without so much as one complaint. (What a trooper). I am lucky enough to know he is smart and more intuitive then I ever was at his age. I have been able to stand up to his father and say,"Hey! That's not how you treat your kid! Get your act in gear and man up." I've faced him in court and maintained my dignity and in the face of loss and also in keeping calm when I have also been victorious. I am a mother and I stand up for what I believe is right, even in front of many. - Picked by Poison
To be brave and face all fears is what everyone should strive for! Who better than to FIGHT for what is right than the DAUNTLESS?! - Booksforme2
Because I value bravery and courage. Plus Dauntless is just awesome! What other reason should there be? - Sam C.
I want to join team dauntless because I want to be brave. I might not be all the way but I want to be free and dauntless will push me to be how I want to be. - Janenifer Lee
I'd rather be brave and do something than sit in an Ivory Tower like the Erudite. I would rather fight than be passive and always give myself to others like Abnegation. I would rather be able to lie when I need to as opposed to Candor, and I would like the option of defending myself as opposed to doing nothing with Amity. - Birth of a New Witch
I want to join DAUNTLESS because I enjoy the rush and excitement of taking risks and facing my fears. - Doodle's Book Blog
I want to join the Dauntless because I want to do things that I never thought I could do and be a part of something strong. - Em and Em's Reviews
I want to join Dauntless because they believe in freedom from fear, and I'm sick of being afraid. I hate being scared or cowardly, it makes me feel weak and useless, and helpless. I also want to join Dauntless because I believe in shouting for those who can only whisper, in the courage that drives one person to stand up for another. I believe in action, and I believe in ordinary acts of bravery. I want to be brave. I want to face my fears and laugh and conquer them. I'm sick of sitting idly by and watching while others act, while others are brave. I want to join then. I WILL join them. Even the thought of Dauntless makes me brave. Dauntless has quite literally changed my life. Since choosing Dauntless, I have become more confident, bolder, less afraid. I know where I belong, and, sure Erudite has a pull for me, but I do not belong with them. I belong among the bold and brave. I belong in a place where I am free from the fear that has tied me down for years. I believe in realizing the extent to which fear rules us, and denying it the chance to change my decisions and control my life. I believe that no other virtue is more important than bravery. - Shout for Those Who Can Only Whisper
Besides the fact that Tris and Four are members, the Dauntless are brave and determined, which is what I am. I have had to be brave and strong to deal with my medical problems, so clearly Dauntless is where I belong. - Shooting Stars Mag
I love the idea of Dauntless, this team seems to encompass many values found in the others teams, but makes those values"their own." - Live to Read
I admire people who are brave and willing to do what must be done to accomplish great things. I want to be more brave and courageous in my actions. - Hope Love Happy Endings
Divergent and Dauntless has saved me from going crazy, and this fandom tooootally needs to be bigger than it is because it was such a deserving book. - Divergent for Life
Something exciting is always happening. It is challenging. You fight for your place. Its YOU who gets to decide. That's why i want to join Dauntless. - Nic
Because I abide by the Team Motto. - Reviewing Shelf
Because its the best team ever!: ) - Monica
We stand up and face our fears. We never back down, no matter what. A person can be truthful or smart or charitable, but it takes real courage and determination to face the worst of the days. And that's what Dauntless is about. - Raven Fic
Dauntless is by far the best faction! I've always had a thirst for adventure and to be carefree and strong so Dauntless is the best faction for that! =] - Booktastic Reviews
I am Dauntless! Nothing will stop me from standing up for what I believe in! - Words from the Tampa Bookworm
Why? Hmm… well, I'll start out with this. At first, I thought I was Erudite because I like reading about things, but then, I analized myself, and I can't say I like the fact that's all they ever do. I like adventure and risk, even if I still can't do some of them because I'm underage. (Which sucks). Anyway, what I'm saying is, that I value bravery a bit more than knowledge, both are important, but I feel that anyone can have knowledge, no matter what it is. Dauntless is a faction that promotes bravery, which is something not everyone has. I feel that with Dauntless, I can more so face my fears and kick butt while doing so. Plus, I can't be selfless, I'm not a fan of total peace, and I can't only tell the truth.: ) There you have it. - Reading in Paradise
Because I am Dauntless! =) - Orchid
Because I'm fearless, strong, determined! I have the strenght to be in this faction! #TEAMDAUNTLESS TILL DEATH! - Trayche
I am fearless! I also love Divergent! - Diana
Because it is the best faction!! I am brave and fearless. Team Dauntless is where I belong. Faction Before Blood!! - Book Loving Mom
Because I AM DAUNTLESS - F.
I want to join Dauntless because I believe everything I do in my life makes.me not only strong but brave too. - Dee
It suits me well or at least better than anywhere else - Taylor
Because of my obsession of divergent (soon to be insurgent also!), tris, four/tobias, and most of all because i am totally DAUNTLESS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! - Janena
I want to be a part if the Dauntless faction because I want to be with othets who share my respect for bravery and fearlesness and are both of those qualities: ). - Halee
This faction is the most powerful in the sense that they're fit in their minds and bodies. They're poweful in multiple aspects, while other factions are solely based on one. I want this faction to make me well-rounded and able to defend the people of my faction and those inside the city. - Maela
“We believe in ordinary acts of bravery, in the courage that drives one person to stand up for another.” Need I say more? - Thoughts of the Chronically Indecisive
I'm fearless, and LOVE to take risks! - Just a Girl Geek
Cuz we all need to let go and face our fears, no matter how large or small - Heather
Because being on the street team is the next best thing to actually being in the Dauntless faction! Not to mention being as close as possible to Four… - Christa
Because Dauntless is in my blood. -Kayla
Because I was raised not to be afraid. To be strong and fearless. If I lived in Tris and Four's world I would absolutely be Dauntless! Go team Dauntless!!! - Book Addictions by Christina
Bravery is something to value. I LOVE Four which is just one fabulous reason to join! - Nocturne Romance Reads
Cauz I can stop a blackwidow spider with one stomp. - The Optimistic Pessimist
I want to join the DAUNTLESS faction because I believe courage and standing up for the things you believe in is most important. You have to not be afraid to change the world for the BETTER and save it from the worse. I do not believe violence is DAUNTLESS but rather being able to change the world without it. I am strong. I am courageous. I AM DAUNTLESS. - Sophie
Tattoos - Colleen
Because I wish that I could be so brave IRL, lol. Also, there's FOUR. My heart has always been drawn to Dauntless. FACTION BEFORE BLOOD! - Book Breather
Life is too short to let fear overcome your chance to be brave and truly live. - Cupcake Girly
Because I AM Dauntless =] - The Consumption of Books
Dauntless has always seemed like the most exciting faction to me. To be honest, I've never really been very into the other factions. I always wanted to learn more about Dauntless and was kind of sad when I never really did.: ( Plus, I work part-time in an independent bookstore (Next Chapter Bookshop) so I would love to give people even more reasons to buy Divergent. - Zoey's Uncreatively Titled Blog
Because they fight their fears. They have courage. - My Life is a Fairy Tale
Because I am not afraid to take risks, to enjoy life, and to face the world and stand up to what I believe in. How more dauntless can one get?; ) - Maji Bookshelf
They say the Dauntless are brave and bold.They say the Dauntless are not afraid of heights and have few fears. Well, I want to show them that, though I may have fears, they won't be a problem when the time comes for me to be the bravest person on earth. - Melissa
Because I believe that everyone needs a little bravery in their everyday life. There's a quote by Winston Churchill:"You have enemies? Good. That means you've stood up for something, sometime in your life." Standing up for your beliefs is something that takes guts to do, and guts are exactly what Dauntless has to offer. - Brave New Shelf
I choose Dauntless because I believe that selflessness, knowledge, peace and kindness are worthless if you don't have the courage to stand up for your convictions and for others when it comes to the test. - Songs and Stories
Above all else bravery is the quality that I value most in myself. I also want to see that quality strengthened even further. That is why I want to join the Dauntless faction! - The Hapa Chick
It's SO obvious that this the best faction of them all. Tris was in that faction too so it has to be DAUNTLESS: ) - Mina
The Dauntless are fearless. They love to challenge themselves, and have a streak of adventure. But at the same time they are loyal, fierce and strong, and that is what makes you Dauntless! - The Girl in a Cafe
I love that the Dauntless are so fearless and brave. I also love that Dauntless is somewhat intertwined with Abnegation. The Dauntless seem to have lots of fun and seem to care a lot about one another. - Reviews from the Hammock
I want to join because in Divergent the Dauntless are strong and unforgiving. Also, they jump on trains! Don't you tell me that's not cool. - Tara
Because i believe in bravery and the freedom to choose my own destiny. - Fatoch
Everything worth having is worth fighting for. You can hope you don't have to fight, but you have an obligation to be ready. - Claire G.
Because I like to think of myself as brave. - Srvaid
Because Dauntless is fearless, their badassery is just soo.inpiring. And the fact it can kill you is just… WOW. Dauntless also is far from perfect, but out imperfections let us rise. - Kandee
I want to join the Dauntless faction because I love what Dauntless stands for. Like the manifesto says I believe in facing my fears, and in ordinary acts of bravery. I believe that if people were brave enough to speak their minds, the world would be a scarier, but better place. Out of all my friends, I was always the one who seeked adrenaline, the one who was not afraid, the one that was always the first person to go on the tallest and scariest roller coaster. Ever since Veronica Roth came out with the Dauntless manifesto, I stood by it. - Nancy
I would love too join the Dauntless faction because being dauntless is about being fearless, brave and courages. I believe I am all of those and would support the faction at all costs. - Ashleigh
I was born Dauntless. Trust me. (Or ask my Dad--I'm 1/2 of him). - Nicole
My reason for joining undaunted is: i wanted to be surrounded with like minded people. i believe in justice. i believe in courage. i believe there is no point in limiting life. no point in silence. - Travis
I want to be brave, courageous, determined, and strong. Thought at first people might not think I am that but deep down inside, I am brave, courageous, determined, and strong! - FireStarBooks
I am a brave, courageous person and will fight for what I believe is right. - Vicky's Volume's
Because I love taking new risks, and because it's the closest place to Four. (; - Christa
Bravery is only as good as the fears one stands up to. I don't want to be fearless. I want to be brave. - Eldabee
Because recently my life has been full of challenges and I've had to take crucial and important decisions with no fears. Specially if I have to protect my family. That's how I noticed I can be Dauntless. Well, there's also the test, of course xD It confirmed I'm Dauntless all the way! - Librarian Mouse
To be brave is to be strong, loyal, and face your fears. This is a constant struggle for those who face it head on and what i try and do everyday. Being dauntless means being able to protect not just yourself but all those you love and to be able to help those you don't know. This is what i strive to do. - K.D. G.
Being Dauntless, in my opinion, means something beyond just having courage and no fear. You can be courageous, but now what? What you do with that courage is what really matters. That courage should be used to correct the unbalanced, unfair, corrupt world we live in. Tris inspired me to be Dauntless. I FELT it when she came to that revelation. I decided to stand up for the little guys. In my life, I've displayed Dauntless qualities. Recently, the Board of Education and High School administrators in my town have committed an injustice. Currently, I, along with my senior class, are fighting against that injustice. I am living a Dauntless life. I already am Dauntless. - Amy B.
Why do I want to join Dauntless?? Here's why: 1) Tris and Four!!!!!!!!! 2) In a hypothetical, unrealistic situation where they are cut off from all their sources and forced to live on their own, the Dauntless will survive. 3) They're cool and badass. 4) If you were to throw this faction into the Hunger Games, it'd be one heck of a show. They'd definitely be the ones to beat. 5) They're cool. 6 This is probably the only faction where training involves a paintball fight. 7) Probably the most fun to join. And they're all physically fit. 8) You can get tattoos and battlescars and stuff. 9) Even the name"Dauntless" sounds awesome. 10) They're cool. - Anna V.
There is nothing more important than bravery. It leads us to stand up for what is right when no one else will. It allows us to be ourselves and defend ourselves. To be Dauntless means to be free. Plus, they clearly have the most fun. - Not So Epic A.M.Y.- A
I wanted to join dauntless to remind me that to truely live you must be brave. You must let go of your fears to make way for experiences. You must find the strength and the courage to build yourself up again when you are knocked down. And you must grasp every opportunity as it comes to you or risk never getting the chance to again. - Mischievous Pixie
I need to face my fears! - Amy's Book Den
I've always wanted to be brave. - Farin
I've always felt like I fit in with the Dauntless! I've been slowly overcoming some of my fears and I want to continue to be brave and overcome the rest of them! And not to mention, The DAUNTLESS ROCK!: ) - Hope, Faith, and Books
Dauntless are brave and not afraid to fight for what is right. They live on the edge and experience life to the fullest. - Lai
I love adventure. I love risk. Sitting in one place isn't me, I want action. - Anastasia
Because I believe in ordinary acts of bravery, in the courage that drives on person to stand up for another. - The Maniacal Bookworm
I admire the bravery in this faction. Not only that, though I firmly believe in fighting for what you believe in, no matter what the cost may be. - Geraldine
I want to stand up for other people, I want to be braver. Only the Dauntless faction can give me that! - Isabella C.
I have vowed to be in the Dauntless faction because this is the faction I belong in! I like to believe I'm a thrill seeker but I know I'm not — I want to be and I want to be able to face my fears. Having that courage will allow me to take risks and maybe one day be as brave as Tris and Four. They risk their very lives for what's important to them; be it friends, family, or love, and I want to be in a faction that promotes that type of bravery. I am ready to be Dauntless!! P.S. So when is knife practice? - The Bookworm is Here!
I want to join Dauntless because they are brave and exciting. - Page Turner
They are brave people. Willing to do what needs to be done. They can do big things and understand whats important. Plus they are super cool! - R. Mae
Well hells bells! Why wouldn't I? Slight addiction to tattoos? Check. Willingly jumps out of perfectly good airplanes? Check. Been known to have a problem with 'following the rules?' Check. Busts out in mama bear mode when someone I care about is being brought down? Check. Dauntless is to push the boundaries of WHO you are and WHAT you are willing to do to get what you want/need. Dauntless is to lead, not to follow. Dauntless is to DO when others say it can't be DONE. Dauntless is — ME. - Panic Written
Who wouldn't want to be Dauntless!!!!!!!!!!! Like its the best faction out there!: ) - Yasmine
I want to join cause I have very few fears, I love archery and things that gt my pulse going. I find life boring without things that scare me so im always bored. I am good with knives and a bow, I am decent with guns. This also seems fun - Nitro
The Dauntless faction represents not only fearlessness, but bravery and selflessness. All of these things are important to me as I continue to grow in my life and in the book worlds created by many wonderful writers. The least I can do to represent how important Divergent has been in my life is to join TEAM DAUNTLESS! - Miranda B.
I believe that Justice must be served in any way possible, and bravery is one of the most important traits, for how would anything ever have been done without someone being brave, taking a risk? Everyone is weak, but we can be strong if we believe, are brave, and take those chances. - Rachel M.
It's where I belong! - Ciji
I am in Dauntless because i will be brave and strong no matter what comes my way. - Kendra
Because cowards can not be tolerated. because there needs to be justice, and i will fight till the end to see that justice is served. because i will fight for my brothers and sisters just as they will fight for me. because you don't always know where you stand until you know that you wont run away, and this is where i make my stand this is where i make my choice to stand shoulder to shoulder with my Dauntless brothers and sisters and prove there is nothing to fear, except fear itself. - Mohawk
Why I want to join: 1. Because I believe that justice is more important than peace 2. Because I want to be free from fear 3. Because I believe in ordinary acts of bravery 4. And in Tris's words,"It was just because of the food.": ) - The Journey of a Young Writer
I personally love Dauntless. The strong, the brave, and the AMAZING all join together in one fabulous faction. I love to think that I'm all of the above. And the other factions? Well, they're going down. DAUNTLESS ALL THE WAY! - My Adventures in Wonderland
I am brave like the Dauntless. I am the kind of person who takes things head on and not care what happens. - Cole R.
Thanks again for helping #TEAMDAUNTLESS for #DivergentNation!
I would like to currently interrupt the BBRAW activities for a quick announcement. Remember last January when I proclaimed that I was expecting — well, here we go again!
Remember at the end of January when I mentioned (extremely late at night) that Dan and I had found the above little puppy on BisMan (Bismarck/Mandan's online classified ads)? Well, on Monday morning I called, then I called again, and I called again and never heard back from this lady. On Tuesday I called one more time and, with no answer, I decided the puppy was either no longer available or this was too sketchy to pursue.
A week later (Sunday night) I was online at Petfinder.com and I saw this SAME puppy at the humane society in Jamestown, ND. I emailed the shelter and with an hour had an update on her. Monday was spent emailing back and forth, asking questions about her history, temperament, etc, and talking Dan into going to see her. Late on Monday (2.6) night we set up a time to visit her on Tuesday as Becky (the foster mom) was going to be out of town on Wednesday through Friday) and the weekend didn't work for either Dan or I. So already, this was moving pretty fast.
Right after school on Tuesday, Dan and I got in the car and drove the 1.5 hours to Jamestown to see her. Boy were we surprised! The picture doesn't do this girl justice at all! Of course she was very shy and timid and didn't really want anything to do with Dan or I for about the first five minutes. At that point I was so nervous! I'm not used to dog's who don't have that "golden" personality that screams, "Here I am! Pet me, hold me, love me!"
Forty five minutes later she was playing with us, cuddling with us, and her tail didn't stop wagging. Becky said that on that Saturday they were taking her to a Meet and Greet at the local Petsmart so if we wanted her we should say something soon. We asked Becky for 24 hours to think about it (but really, let's face it, at that point we knew). We drove home and talked about, watched television and talked about, went to bed and talked about it, and on Thursday morning we called Becky and said "We can't live without this dog. She's already a part of our family!"
We didn't go pick her up right away because this weekend we are headed to the Twin Cities for a hockey game (Go Wild!) and while we do have family she could stay with, we didn't want to introduce her to another new environment so quickly. SO, when we return from the hockey game this weekend on Monday we will be stopping by to pick her up in Jamestown! This week and last week has been all about the arrival of PP (potential puppy). We've gotten a kennel, beds, toys (oh, the insanity!), and everything else we can think of! We've submitted our application (including three references) and last night was the home visit.
We decided on the name of PP before we even met her. While working out that original Monday I was thinking of names like Poet, Jazz (her "prior" name was Jasmine), and Prim. I knew Prim would be Dan's favorite because he loved "The Hunger Games" but the more and more I thought about it, I realized how fitting it would be! Prim, the younger sister who was saved from the Games. Prim, who grew from a timid, shy, almost helpless (in Katniss' eyes) into a strong, courageous young woman. How perfect is that!
Isn't she lovely! Expect more posts about our little Prim as the week continues and into next week (maybe even a Vlog appearance).
In case you were curious as to the timeline: January 29th, 2012: I posted about this dog I had seen BisMan February 5th: I see the same dog online at PetFinder February 6th: I email back and forth with Becky. We decide that Tuesday Dan and I will drive down to see her. Name is also picked out — Prim. February 7th: Dan and I drive to meet Prim for the first time February 8th: We call Becky and beg her to let Prim into our lives. February 13th: Two people from the Humane Society visit to make sure we live where we say we live and to talk about the adoption February 20th: We will be picking up Prim!!!
1. Harry Potter (Harry Potter): Of course Harry Potter would top my list. He not only grew up before my eyes, but he also managed to save the Wizarding World. Think about it. He was born a celebrity and thrust into the spotlight as a child, so he could have turned out like Lindsay Lohan. Instead, he embodies all the attributes of a true hero: bravery, kindness, humility and perseverance.
2. Edward Cullen (Twilight Series): Sure, Bella could be annoying and whiny at times, but, through it all Edward was still amazing. He is everything a girl wants in the perfect guy: Handsome, strong, caring and loyal. Okay, not much of a sense of humor, but he wins extra points for literally having a rock hard body. Wink-Wink. Edward made girls believe in love and happily ever after.
3. Katniss Everdeen (Hunger Games): Truthfully, I only really liked Katniss in the first two books since she pretty much lost it mentally in the last book. Granted, she experienced a great deal of loss in book three, but in the first book she was tough as nails and stood up for what she believed in. That is the Katniss I want to remember.
4. Professor Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore (Harry Potter): Dumbledore and Harry had the perfect mentor/protégé relationship. He was wise enough to let Harry grow to be his own man, all while harboring the true secret of Harry's life. Even though he was a powerful wizard, Dumbledore still admired the human qualities that Harry possessed that Dumbledore himself had neglected throughout his own adolescent years. Plus, he also had the best lines ever."After all, to the well organized mind, death is but the next great adventure."
5. Billy Coleman (Where the Red Fern Grows): He may be only ten years old, but Billy Coleman completely stole my heart when I was younger. He had a dream and he worked harder than any other kid I had ever read about to reach that dream. Total tearjerker, but still an amazing story.
6. Augustus Waters (The Fault in Our Stars): All I have to say about him is that he gave Amsterdam to Hazel Grace Lancaster which makes him the best book boyfriend ever. You'd have to read the story to see what I mean.
7. T.J Callahan (On the Island): He became a man right before our eyes and made us swoon as he worked to show Anna Emerson that he was no longer a boy.
8. Claire Morgan (Seduction and Snacks): Sure, she had a complete gutter-mind, and was completely inappropriate most of the time, but OMG, she was freaking hilarious. I can honestly say I have never laughed as hard as I did while reading Seduction and Snacks.
9. Josh Bennett (Sea of Tranquility): He was a loner and pretty much a quiet person, but oh how you come to love him as his story tugs at your heart. He was the kind of guy that will steal your heart without you even realizing it.
10. Jacob Black (Breaking Dawn): Jacob is a surprise entry since he drove me absolutely batty in the first three books. Bella was Edward's love, plain and simple. Breaking Dawn is by far my least favorite book in the series, but Jacob completely redeemed himself in it. It was nice to finally get insight into his head and to see the things he struggled with the most.
No Attachments by Tiffany King Published: April 30th, 2013 Reading Level: New Adult Length: 302 pages Summary: Ashton Garrison walked away from a privileged life in order to hide from the one thing she's not willing to face. She knows she left behind a trail of pain, but in the long run, her betrayal will hurt less than the truth. She now has one goal: Live life to the fullest with no regrets and no attachments. She has high hopes that a move to new surroundings will provide the escape she desires, but what Ashton doesn't count on is how fate always seems to find a way to screw up any good plan. Sometimes, when love comes knocking, the pull is too strong not to answer. Suddenly, what she thought she wanted to escape from is what Ashton now wants more than anything.
Nathan Lockton has one mission: find his target and complete the task he was hired to do—no attachments and no emotion necessary. He's done it over and over again. What he thought was a typical lost-and-found job has turned into a life examining moment as Nathan is forced to deal with something he has always ignored--his feelings. Now faced with a decision, Nathan must choose to either follow his heart or complete the job.
Love can come when you least expect it. The question is: If the odds are stacked against you, how far are you willing to go for the one you love?
a Rafflecopter giveaway Links:Twitter - @AuthorTiffany Facebook - Tiffany King Pintrest - Tiffany King Blog - authortiffanyjking.blogspot.com Goodreads - Tiffany King
Hello brave street teamers! If you have not signed up yet and wish to do so, USE GOOGLE to be taken to the sign up page. Those of you who have signed up already, you should have received an email. Please check your spam folders if you don't see it. Today we wanted to announce some more street team prizes and some assignments for you guys! Street Team Prizes - Signed copy of DIVERGENT - Copy of INSURGENT (from The Book Depository) - HUGE box of ARCs (to be announced soon -US/CA only) - The Hunger Games (paperback) - Swag packs (including FACTION TATTOOS) each week
Important Links - We can now use two different links for our buttons and tweets.
The links are: Dauntless Tumblr page: http://bit.ly/dauntlessfaction HarperTeen's Insurgent page: http://bit.ly/choose_dauntless Please make sure you use the bit.ly links only. They are the only two that count.
Team Dauntless Giveaways - We are running a giveaway for a NOOK with an ebook of INSURGENT all month long! Please feel free to spread the word about it, or blog about it and you can use the image below. You can link the giveaway to the DivergentFans site. People can enter to win once a day!
- We will be hosting a new book giveaway each day. We will be linking those on twitter so please sign up to win and spread the word about those! - There are a few more BIG giveaways coming up! Hopefully one each week and the next should be up by Monday or Tuesday. The links will be sent to you guys in the next email.
Cool Images - Do you have pinterest? We have posted these images there if you'd like to repin them or use them in tweets or blog posts.
Need the button? This one links to the Dauntless tumblr page.
Assignments - Tomorrow we are starting #FEARLESSFRIDAY. To participate, tweet or post a picture of yourself doing something cool and fearless, or post a picture of something fearless you would like to do someday.
- You can still use the hashtag #IfIWasFearless to tell everyone the things you'd like to do as well.
- Use the hashtags #TeamDauntless, #DauntlessFaction, and #DivergentNation with the links http://bit.ly/dauntlessfaction and http://bit.ly/choose_dauntless
First Challenge Each week we will be coming up with a challenge for street team members. Everyone who completes this challenge within the time-frame will be entered to win a swag giveaway for that week. For this week, please try to submit your link by Monday, the 9th. - The challenge is to make a vlog of you or your friends talking about being DAUNTLESS. Think of the question"What does it mean to be Dauntless?" You can also tie this into #FearlessFriday and share the things you would do if you were fearless for a while. We know that a lot of people have a fear of vlogs, so that can be your fearless task: )
You can link your vlog's youtube URL or, if you'd like, create a blog post and link it that way. Once you have completed this challenge, make sure you sign up below with your link in order to be entered to win the swag! Swag packs include faction tattoos and we may even throw in a surprise book!
We are all so thrilled to have you guys on board. Please contact us with any questions and send us links if you post about the Dauntless team! We'll be sure to re-tweet it: ) We really appreciate all the hard work you all are doing to help Team Dauntless!
