Summer Reading
English 10
2011
Choose one of the following books to read this summer.
READING:
Haroun and the Sea of Stories Salman Rushdie
Life of Pi Yann Martel
When the Emperor Was Divine Julie Otsuka
A Prayer for Owen Meany John Irving
*Be sure to annotate the text as you go along, either in the book or on sticky notes attached to pertinent pages. Yes, we are saying you should write in the book, though clearly not if you have borrowed it from the library. In that case keep notes in a notebook. Mark and comment on the following:
- Questions that occur to you as you read
- Character development
- Emerging themes
- Patterns of imagery and language
- Your immediate reactions to what you are reading
WRITING:
A
1) When you have finished reading carefully and annotating, you will choose 8 significant passages from throughout the novel. Each of these should be no more than a short paragraph in length and may be as short as a phrase or sentence.
2) Quote each one in full and include the page number in parentheses at the end of the quote.
3) Then write a full paragraph for each passage, explaining how the passage deals with a theme (an underlying meaning or issue in the story), develops a character (one of the figures important to the story), reflects the central conflict (the controversy or source of tension in the story), or describes the setting (where and when the story takes place). You need not start paragraphs with phrases, such as “the reason I chose this passage is…” Just jump into your explanation of what is important, interesting, and meaningful about the passage.
Be as specific and precise as you can in your writing. This assignment will be due the second day of class. Be sure to word process this project and edit it carefully before printing and submitting it.
B
**You will also be expected to write an in-class essay on the book you read during the first week of class, so please remember to bring your book with you.
HELPFUL SUGGESTIONS:
Read summaries and reviews online before choosing your book, and do not pick according to length. Choose the work that you feel you will find most engaging.
Do your summer reading assignment in August and into September. If you read your chosen book early, be sure to skim it again as school approaches; otherwise you will find the in-class essay…challenging (and not in a good way).
As always with schoolwork, try to read and write without distractions. Choose a different book to bring to the beach, perhaps?
If you have questions about the assignment or your chosen book, you may contact us at pbentley@mph.net or jstrickland@mph.net.
Enjoy your summer, and we look forward to seeing you in September!
