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All Prep 8 students must read five books this summer: 1 mandatory book, 3 books from the reading list, and 1 choice book. Write a compare/contrast paper using your choice book and a book from the list. Fill out a reading log for each book you read.
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Summer Reading Highlights Prep 8- Mrs. Hanley’s ELA Class
Reading work- All Prep 8 students must read five books this summer: one mandatory book, three books from the reading list, and one choice book. 1)Read the mandatory book: Nothing but the Truth by Avi. We will discuss this book in September, and you will be assessed on your understanding of the book. Take notes if needed as you read to help you remember the characters, conflicts, and plot. 2) Choose three books from the list below to read. 2) Read a book of your own choice that is on your grade level. 3) Write a compare/contrast paper using your choice book and a book from the list. (Do not write about Nothing but the Truth.) Your paper should be typed. It should include a solid introduction, several paragraphs in the body, and a strong conclusion. Be sure to mention the books and authors in your introduction and use text details in your paper. 4) Fill out a reading log for each book you read. Use the reading log at the bottom of this packet.
Mandatory Book-Nothing But the Truth This documentary novel is a fictional story set in New Hampshire that features patriotism, journalism, politics, family dynamics, and the pressures of growing up. As you read, look for similarities to current events and examine how one’s actions can affect other people’s lives.
After reading the mandatory book (Nothing but the Truth), choose three of the books listed on the following slides to read this summer after reading short book summaries.
A Tree Grows in Brooklyn This semi-autobiographical 1943 novel written by Betty Smith tells the story of Francie and her impoverished family living in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, New York City, during the first two decades of the 20th century. As you read, look at how education changes the life of Francie and her family. Also, look at the symbolism of the title.
The Life of Pi This beloved book (and movie) is an exciting story of survival that is centered around a teenage boy and a Bengal tiger. As you read, think about how this story measures up to other stories of survival you’ve read.
The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl This is the right book for readers who love fun stories of superheroes, strange powers, and middle school. As you read, think about what superpower you’d like to have to overcome the challenges of middle school and life.
Beyond the Bright Sea This is the perfect summer book for readers who love mysteries. This book explores what it means to be a family, and best of all, it is features interesting characters living on a special island. As you read, think about what the word ‘family’ means to you...and others.
Harbor Me Imagine if your teacher told you that you and five friends could spend one afternoon a week talking alone in one of the classrooms at school. That’s exactly what the students in this book are permitted to do. As you read, think about what you’d do if you were given the same opportunity as the students in this book.
I Am Malala This book tells the true story of a young girl who risked everything for the chance at an education for her and others. As you read, think about how this book changes your outlook on going to school.
Schooled This is the story of Capricorn Anderson a boy who has lived a sheltered life on a farm commune being home-schooled by his hippie grandmother, Rain. When Rain falls ill, Cap has to learn how to navigate the world of middle school. Think about how different your life is from the main character as you read.
The Old Man and the Sea This last major work of Ernest Hemingway will resonate with readers who love the sea and fishing. This rich story of the struggle between an old fisherman and a marlin contains symbolism, classic characters, and plenty of action. After you read, think about what lessons you learned from this short, but poignant tale.
Hang a Thousand Trees With Ribbons This historical fiction novel tells the story of Phillis Wheatley, the first female African American poet. History and poetry lovers alike will enjoy this book by Rinaldi. As you read, think about how her story relates to American History topics and figures you’ve learned about this year.
Boys in the Boat This story set during the Great Depression tells the story of nine working-class boys from the American West who at the 1936 Olympics showed the world what true grit really meant. This is an inspiring tale of how teamwork can make dreams come true. As you read, think about what you and your friends could accomplish together.
The Outsiders This classic coming-of-age novel explores social class differences, family dynamics, and more. As you read this story, think about how the author was only fifteen when she started to write this tale inspired by the town she lived in. What story would you write about your town and friends? Think about that as you read.
Into Thin Air Here is a book for those of you looking to escape the summer heat as you read about the true story of the author’s experience at the 1996 Mount Everest disaster. This story relates to current event stories about Mount Everest and the dangers hikers face in trying to conquer this famous mountain. As you read, think about other adventure and survival stories you’ve read. Which one is your favorite?
Lastly, read a book not on this list that is on your grade level. Once you’re done reading: Fill out your reading logs. Write your compare/contrast essay. (See the Summer Reading packet for more details.)
