Tuesday, May 27, 2008
POST B
Overall, I really liked the book Chinese Cinderella. I think that you got a really good perception of how Adeline was feeling throughout the story, and what she was going through. As the story went on, I was unsure if it would be a “happy ending”, or if everyone would desert Adeline, but I was happy she got to go to college in England. After winning the play writing contest, I thought that Adeline’s dad might be mad at her, but luckily he wasn’t. When Adeline’s grandma wrote her a letter of congratulations she said, “By winning that prestigious international playwriting competition, you have climbed another rung on the ladder of success. Like Ye Xian, you have defied the odds and garnered triumph through your own efforts. Your future is limitless, and I shall always be proud of you, my Chinese Cinderella” (pg 197). I think that this quote sums up the entire book, in that it tells although she was harshly treated, and not given great opportunities, Adeline worked to the goals she made for herself, and eventually achieved them. I also think that this quote shows even though Adeline was worn down and sad from being treated badly, she never gave up, and one time of trouble didn’t stop her. I think that now having more freedom and the ability to do more, Adeline will achieve even more. I think it was smart of Adeline’s grandma to show her the story of Ye Xian, because she needed to see that anything was possible.
POST A
I only noticed a few cultural differences in the section I read this week. Adeline mentions a lot that her sister is in an arranged marriage, and how she is worried that she will be sent off too. In ap euro we learned that in China when a women was married back then they got no say in it, and once you got married you lived with the husband’s parents, and rarely saw your own. Adeline said, “‘I’m terrified they’ll force me into an arranged marriage like Big Sister’s just to be rid of me’” (pg 181).
Also at the end of the book, I thought it was cool how they connected the American Cinderella to a “Chinese Cinderella” story. The story is basically the same as our Cinderella and Adeline learns about the story from her grandma, who compares the main character Ye Xian to Adeline in how she overcame her troubles, and became successful. In a letter to Adeline, her grandma said, “Your future is limitless, and I shall always be proud of you, my Chinese Cinderella” (pg 197).
Lastly, Adeline’s dream was to go to England to study, and it seemed like most people wanting to go to college went abroad. Also, it is not just normal, but required in schools for Adeline and her classmates to know English, Chinese and other languages where as in America, most people only know English.
Also at the end of the book, I thought it was cool how they connected the American Cinderella to a “Chinese Cinderella” story. The story is basically the same as our Cinderella and Adeline learns about the story from her grandma, who compares the main character Ye Xian to Adeline in how she overcame her troubles, and became successful. In a letter to Adeline, her grandma said, “Your future is limitless, and I shall always be proud of you, my Chinese Cinderella” (pg 197).
Lastly, Adeline’s dream was to go to England to study, and it seemed like most people wanting to go to college went abroad. Also, it is not just normal, but required in schools for Adeline and her classmates to know English, Chinese and other languages where as in America, most people only know English.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Post B
I only have twenty pages left in my book, and I had trouble putting it down, I really like the stories. I really like Chinese Cinderella better than I thought I would and I am excited to see how the book ends.
Ever since Adeline’s Aunt Reine came to pick up Adeline from the boarding school, I think Adeline’s life has gotten a lot better, and she became a lot more confident until Naing sent Adeline to a new boarding school. When Adeline went to Hong Kong with Aunt Reine and her family I think it gave Adeline an idea of how children should actually be treated, and that not all mothers are like Naing. I think that seeing this will give Adeline the confidence to tell someone about what Naing and her father, and what they are doing to her. I was really happy when Victor, Aunt Reine’s son stood up for Adeline, and wouldn’t go to lunch without her, but I was also confused why Aunt Reine hasn’t realized how badly Adeline is being treated. I was really hoping that they might adopt Adeline, but they didn’t, so I hope they come back to get her. As Adeline talks about how kind the Schillings (Aunt Reine) were to her she says, “That was how the Schilling family treated me throughout the time I spent with them. They made me feel as if I were their child. For the first time in my life, I did not automatically get the short end of the stick but was given an equal share, just like Victor and Claudine” (pg. 142). I think that this quote shows how unaware Adeline was that people actually treat all their kids as equals, and are not harsh to any of them. I think that by spending time with them, Adeline started to want a normal family more than ever.
Ever since Adeline’s Aunt Reine came to pick up Adeline from the boarding school, I think Adeline’s life has gotten a lot better, and she became a lot more confident until Naing sent Adeline to a new boarding school. When Adeline went to Hong Kong with Aunt Reine and her family I think it gave Adeline an idea of how children should actually be treated, and that not all mothers are like Naing. I think that seeing this will give Adeline the confidence to tell someone about what Naing and her father, and what they are doing to her. I was really happy when Victor, Aunt Reine’s son stood up for Adeline, and wouldn’t go to lunch without her, but I was also confused why Aunt Reine hasn’t realized how badly Adeline is being treated. I was really hoping that they might adopt Adeline, but they didn’t, so I hope they come back to get her. As Adeline talks about how kind the Schillings (Aunt Reine) were to her she says, “That was how the Schilling family treated me throughout the time I spent with them. They made me feel as if I were their child. For the first time in my life, I did not automatically get the short end of the stick but was given an equal share, just like Victor and Claudine” (pg. 142). I think that this quote shows how unaware Adeline was that people actually treat all their kids as equals, and are not harsh to any of them. I think that by spending time with them, Adeline started to want a normal family more than ever.
Post A
In this section that I read the main cultural differences were the languages spoken. As Adeline arrived in Hong King she saw that the most spoken languages were either Chinese or English, because Britain at that time controlled China. Adeline, after learning so much English at the different schools she has attended has become accustomed to it and is no longer interested in Chinese. When Adeline tells her Grandpa this he says, “‘I agree that Chinese words are more difficult to learn that English. We do not have an alphabet, and there is no correlation at all between our written and spoken language. In fact, I once met a Frenchmen who could not speak a word of Chinese so he worked as a translator of Chinese law at the French consulate in Shanghai’” (pg.152). Ye Ye, Adeline’s grandpa also talks about how the language has more meaning than English, and that each picture that represents a word or phrase is meaningful and symbolic. Lastly, he talks about how it is important for Adeline to know her own language because of her culture, and so she can be respected by others.
One small cultural difference was how a couple times it was mentioned that people had left unwanted babies on the street, or a child was for sale, and when they were in Hong Kong they saw this, “The child had a large placard hanging around her neck on which was written, my name is Feng San-an. I am for sale” (pg. 160).
One small cultural difference was how a couple times it was mentioned that people had left unwanted babies on the street, or a child was for sale, and when they were in Hong Kong they saw this, “The child had a large placard hanging around her neck on which was written, my name is Feng San-an. I am for sale” (pg. 160).
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Chinese Cinderella, Post B
Dear Adeline,
I am reading your memoir, Chinese Cinderella and I think that it is really unbelievable how malicious Naing was and how much your father disregarded you. I thought it was unbelievable that your father forgot your name and your birthday because I think that being your father, he should love you no matter what. I can’t believe he didn’t even say good-bye to you when the dropped you off at the boarding school. As the numbers at the boarding school dwindled, you seemed more comfortable at the school because there was no one there to laugh at you. I think after Naing has called you names and put you down, it has really lowered your self esteem and confidence. I think that you should just be yourself, and don’t let anyone make fun of you.
When your aunt (Naing’s sister) saved you, and was going to bring you to Hong Kong, away from the communism, you were more worried about how mad Naing would be to see you, rather than being happy you were going home. As you left the boarding school, you thought, “I dared not to reply but I thought what can be worse? All the time I was quaking at the thought of what Niang would say when she saw me” (pg 139). I think that you should look on the bright side that you get to see people that do love you and care about you. Lastly, I think that you should tell someone at your school or your aunt (Naing’s sister) about how they have been treating you.
Good luck in Hong Kong!
-Annabel
I am reading your memoir, Chinese Cinderella and I think that it is really unbelievable how malicious Naing was and how much your father disregarded you. I thought it was unbelievable that your father forgot your name and your birthday because I think that being your father, he should love you no matter what. I can’t believe he didn’t even say good-bye to you when the dropped you off at the boarding school. As the numbers at the boarding school dwindled, you seemed more comfortable at the school because there was no one there to laugh at you. I think after Naing has called you names and put you down, it has really lowered your self esteem and confidence. I think that you should just be yourself, and don’t let anyone make fun of you.
When your aunt (Naing’s sister) saved you, and was going to bring you to Hong Kong, away from the communism, you were more worried about how mad Naing would be to see you, rather than being happy you were going home. As you left the boarding school, you thought, “I dared not to reply but I thought what can be worse? All the time I was quaking at the thought of what Niang would say when she saw me” (pg 139). I think that you should look on the bright side that you get to see people that do love you and care about you. Lastly, I think that you should tell someone at your school or your aunt (Naing’s sister) about how they have been treating you.
Good luck in Hong Kong!
-Annabel
Chinese Cinderella, Post A
The main cultural difference was the fact that during this time period, China was going through a civil war and the communists eventually won. In September 1948, Adeline’s father and Naing sent her to a boarding school to Shanghai, away from Adeline’s home in Tianjin. This was the opposite direction everyone else was going, because the communists had begun to take over Shanghai and everyone was desperately fleeing. Adeline learns all this news from a mom of a student at the boarding school, who said, “‘Haven’t they heard the Communists are winning the war? Soon PLA soldiers will be marching in from Manchuria. When they arrive they’ll probably arrest is capitalists along with the foreign sisters and put everybody in prison’” (129). I think that it was ridiculous that Naing and Adeline’s father would send her somewhere so dangerous.
Another cultural difference was the language differences in different parts of China. Adeline Spoke in a Shanghai dialect at home, while in Tianjin, everyone spoke Mandarin. Also at the boarding school, Adeline, along with the other few remaining students were only allowed to speak French or English, and English was a necessary thing to learn at every school Adeline went to. Lastly throughout the story you can see that there was not much technology used like phones, and there were few cars, but this could just be because of the time period too.
Another cultural difference was the language differences in different parts of China. Adeline Spoke in a Shanghai dialect at home, while in Tianjin, everyone spoke Mandarin. Also at the boarding school, Adeline, along with the other few remaining students were only allowed to speak French or English, and English was a necessary thing to learn at every school Adeline went to. Lastly throughout the story you can see that there was not much technology used like phones, and there were few cars, but this could just be because of the time period too.
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
Chines Ciinderella, Week 4, Post A
This week I noticed several small cultural differences. One difference was how Adeline and her siblings received ducks as pets. I think if any child here in the U.S. would have a duck for a pet, people would probably be worried it would be dirty and just think was weird. Also, the Chinese New year is mentioned in almost every chapter along with traditions that go along with it.
One big cultural difference mentioned was the arranged marriage between Adeline’s sister and Niang’s friend’s son. When Adeline describes the marriage she says that her sister is seventeen, while Samuel, her sister’s fiancé is thirty-one. In the U.S. this is illegal, and that age difference is unusual, even if Adeline’s sister was older. Also, because her sister is getting married, she is quitting school and not getting her diploma, and not going to college. I think that because this story takes place awhile ago, many women didn’t go to college, even in the U.S., but I’m not sure if this has changed now as much in China as it has in the U.S. When talking about the marriage Adeline thinks, “How can Big Sister remain so cheerful when her life is about to take such a ghastly turn? To be taken out of school and thrust into the arms of a stranger! […]What did Niang say to induce Big Sister to agree to such a fate” (pg. 86). I don’t know how anyone could just agree to marry someone they have never met. How would you know you would like them or want to spend the rest of your life with them?
One big cultural difference mentioned was the arranged marriage between Adeline’s sister and Niang’s friend’s son. When Adeline describes the marriage she says that her sister is seventeen, while Samuel, her sister’s fiancé is thirty-one. In the U.S. this is illegal, and that age difference is unusual, even if Adeline’s sister was older. Also, because her sister is getting married, she is quitting school and not getting her diploma, and not going to college. I think that because this story takes place awhile ago, many women didn’t go to college, even in the U.S., but I’m not sure if this has changed now as much in China as it has in the U.S. When talking about the marriage Adeline thinks, “How can Big Sister remain so cheerful when her life is about to take such a ghastly turn? To be taken out of school and thrust into the arms of a stranger! […]What did Niang say to induce Big Sister to agree to such a fate” (pg. 86). I don’t know how anyone could just agree to marry someone they have never met. How would you know you would like them or want to spend the rest of your life with them?
Chinese Cinderella, Week 4, Post B
After reading a little over a hundred pages in Chinese Cinderella, I think that it is a good book, but not that great because the book it mostly several small stories of Adeline’s life. Although you can see a small plot line, there isn’t really an overall story and it gives you nothing to anticipate or look forward to. Because there isn’t one storyline, I think it is hard to predict what will happen next except for the fact that Niang will most likely continue being harsh to Adeline.
One character, Adeline’s father is important in the overall story, but isn’t mentioned much. Adeline seems to act that he is nice to her because he is proud when she does well in school, but I really don’t think he is that great of a dad. I think that just because she isn’t directly mean to Adeline, he still isn’t a good father because he follows Niang when she is mean to or is ignoring Adeline. I felt really bad for Adeline when her pet duck was purposefully put in front of their mean dog to test his obedience. Adeline’s duck died when the dog attacked, but Adeline’s dad should have stopped everyone from using her pet. Lastly, I think that Adeline’s dad needs to be more compassionate. After whipping Adeline, which I thought was horrible, Adeline said, “I looked up at him in utter desolation. The fabric of my life was about to be torn apart. My heart felt heavy with the most excruciating pain. But he merely relooped the whip over his arm and walked out” (pg104). I think that Adeline should tell a teacher or maybe a friend at school about her parents and how they are treating her.
One character, Adeline’s father is important in the overall story, but isn’t mentioned much. Adeline seems to act that he is nice to her because he is proud when she does well in school, but I really don’t think he is that great of a dad. I think that just because she isn’t directly mean to Adeline, he still isn’t a good father because he follows Niang when she is mean to or is ignoring Adeline. I felt really bad for Adeline when her pet duck was purposefully put in front of their mean dog to test his obedience. Adeline’s duck died when the dog attacked, but Adeline’s dad should have stopped everyone from using her pet. Lastly, I think that Adeline’s dad needs to be more compassionate. After whipping Adeline, which I thought was horrible, Adeline said, “I looked up at him in utter desolation. The fabric of my life was about to be torn apart. My heart felt heavy with the most excruciating pain. But he merely relooped the whip over his arm and walked out” (pg104). I think that Adeline should tell a teacher or maybe a friend at school about her parents and how they are treating her.
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Week 3, Post A, Chinese Cinderella
Besides pervious cultural differences like the Japanese controlling China, I only noticed a few minor differences. One of the cultural differences was when Adeline was describing a game they played in china, and says, “I first noticed Wu Chun-mei when we played shuttlecock against each other one day during recess. A shuttlecock was a rounded piece of cork with feathers stuck on the top […]. We would kick it up and down and add up the number of kicks made without interruption” (pg 56-57). Adeline goes on to describe how when you hit the shuttlecock with a racquet over a net, they call it badminton, and then I realized the shuttlecock is like a birdie.
The other, not necessarily cultural difference, but difference in time periods, or society, was the American soldiers living in china after the end of World War II. Adeline says, “At school, we were given surplus C rations for our lunch, left by China’s new hero’s the U.S. marines. We ate hard biscuits, canned meat and chunks of bittersweet chocolate. After each meal, we prayed and thanked our American allies for winning the war” (pg 59). This shows how grateful the Chinese were, and they were happy to have the Americans stationed there. This thankfulness is a lot different that the feeling towards the Japanese soldiers who were in China earlier in the story.
Lastly, I noticed alot of small cultural differnces throughout the story, like the mentioning of the Chinese New Year, and the traditons for that. Also Adeline talks about going to the park and seeing famous players competing in Chinee chess, and she talks about listening to storytellers spinning yarns about kung fu heroes(64).
The other, not necessarily cultural difference, but difference in time periods, or society, was the American soldiers living in china after the end of World War II. Adeline says, “At school, we were given surplus C rations for our lunch, left by China’s new hero’s the U.S. marines. We ate hard biscuits, canned meat and chunks of bittersweet chocolate. After each meal, we prayed and thanked our American allies for winning the war” (pg 59). This shows how grateful the Chinese were, and they were happy to have the Americans stationed there. This thankfulness is a lot different that the feeling towards the Japanese soldiers who were in China earlier in the story.
Lastly, I noticed alot of small cultural differnces throughout the story, like the mentioning of the Chinese New Year, and the traditons for that. Also Adeline talks about going to the park and seeing famous players competing in Chinee chess, and she talks about listening to storytellers spinning yarns about kung fu heroes(64).
Week 3, Post B, Chinese Cinderella
I am a lot farther in the book, but I still think that the story is still being introduced, and more significant events will begin to happen soon. I am enjoying the book so far, and continue to learn more about Adeline, but I am having trouble totally relating to her because of her age difference(she is about ten), and because of the suffering she is going through. When I was reading a story Adeline wrote about her aunt and her mother, she says, “Every child can enter without a ticket and girls are treated the same as boys. No one is sneered at or scolded without a reason. It’s called Paradise.”(pg 52-53) When I read this it, made me think of what most people would call Paradise. I think most people I know would say it is a place where they can relax, not have to work, and can do what ever they please. I think that it is interesting what Adeline thinks is Paradise, but I wasn’t necessarily surprised that that was what she dreams of, after being treated so harshly by everyone in her family. In the same letter Adeline says, “Though I am really nothing, she makes me believe I am special” (pg 52). I think that Adeline has come to think of herself as nothing because her parents act as if she doesn’t exist. As Adeline became friends with Wu Chun-mei, I was happy for Adeline because she now has someone to talk to and because Wu Chun-mei need help with math, I think it gives Adeline a sense that she is needed and wanted. I think this is very important for everyone, especially Adeline.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
World Issues
More Sources:
http://www.globalissues.org/HumanRights/Abuses/China.asp
http://www.amnesty.org/en/library/asset/ASA17/050/2008/en/83b26dc5-0008-11dd-b092-bdb020617d3d/asa170502008eng.html
http://www.euractiv.com/en/sports/olympics-triggering-human-rights-violations-china/article-171524
http://www.spiegel.de/international/world/0,1518,545892,00.html
http://www.globalissues.org/HumanRights/Abuses/China.asp
http://www.amnesty.org/en/library/asset/ASA17/050/2008/en/83b26dc5-0008-11dd-b092-bdb020617d3d/asa170502008eng.html
http://www.euractiv.com/en/sports/olympics-triggering-human-rights-violations-china/article-171524
http://www.spiegel.de/international/world/0,1518,545892,00.html
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
World Issues Post
I am going to focus on the Olympics in China, and human rights issues. Here are some sources:
http://sks.sirs.com/cgi-bin/hst-article-display?id=SMN0307H-0-5091&artno=0000275104&type=ART&shfilter=U&key=olympics%20in%20china&title=Amid%20Human%20Rights%20Protests%2C%20a%20Look%20at%20China%27s%20Record&res=Y&ren=Y&gov=Y&lnk=N&ic=Y
http://sks.sirs.com/cgi-bin/hst-article-display?id=SMN0307H-0-5228&artno=0000275024&type=ART&shfilter=U&key=olympics%20in%20china&title=Olympic%20Boycotts%2D%2DA%20Bad%20Idea&res=Y&ren=Y&gov=Y&lnk=N&ic=Y
http://sks.sirs.com/cgi-bin/hst-article-display?id=SMN0307H-0-5228&artno=0000275088&type=ART&shfilter=U&key=olympics%20in%20china&title=Olympic%20Torch%20Protests%20Illuminate%20U%2ES%2E%20Right%20to%20Peaceful%20Dissent&res=Y&ren=Y&gov=Y&lnk=N&ic=Y
http://sks.sirs.com/cgi-bin/hst-article-display?id=SMN0307H-0-5228&artno=0000273807&type=ART&shfilter=U&key=olympics%20in%20china&title=US%20Lists%20Human%20Rights%20Abusers&res=Y&ren=Y&gov=Y&lnk=N&ic=Y
http://sks.sirs.com/cgi-bin/hst-article-display?id=SMN0307H-0-5091&artno=0000275104&type=ART&shfilter=U&key=olympics%20in%20china&title=Amid%20Human%20Rights%20Protests%2C%20a%20Look%20at%20China%27s%20Record&res=Y&ren=Y&gov=Y&lnk=N&ic=Y
http://sks.sirs.com/cgi-bin/hst-article-display?id=SMN0307H-0-5228&artno=0000275024&type=ART&shfilter=U&key=olympics%20in%20china&title=Olympic%20Boycotts%2D%2DA%20Bad%20Idea&res=Y&ren=Y&gov=Y&lnk=N&ic=Y
http://sks.sirs.com/cgi-bin/hst-article-display?id=SMN0307H-0-5228&artno=0000275088&type=ART&shfilter=U&key=olympics%20in%20china&title=Olympic%20Torch%20Protests%20Illuminate%20U%2ES%2E%20Right%20to%20Peaceful%20Dissent&res=Y&ren=Y&gov=Y&lnk=N&ic=Y
http://sks.sirs.com/cgi-bin/hst-article-display?id=SMN0307H-0-5228&artno=0000273807&type=ART&shfilter=U&key=olympics%20in%20china&title=US%20Lists%20Human%20Rights%20Abusers&res=Y&ren=Y&gov=Y&lnk=N&ic=Y
Post B, Chinese Cinderella
When I started reading this book last week, I saw how Adeline’s whole family wasn’t very nice to her, but I still thought it wasn’t totally a Cinderella story until I read more this week, I began to understand why. After reading more chapters I knew a lot more about their family and how things were done. Niang, Adeline’s stepmother was never specifically mean to Adeline until one incident. One day after Niang’s baby daughter wasn’t listening and Niang began to beat her, and everyone ignored it, until Adeline stood up for the baby. After telling Niang to stop, Niang said to Adeline, “‘Get out!’ she snarled in a cold distinctive voice. ‘I shall never forgive you! Never! Never! Never! You’d better watch out from now on1 You will pay for your arrogance!’”(pg 35). I think this is cruel to Adeline, and maybe in their culture it wasn’t right to stop Niang, and it may have been disrespectful, Niang shouldn’t have been so cruel. Also I think that it was weird Adeline’s father wouldn’t stand up for her. He cared more about his young French wife than his helpless child.
Another time I thought was weird was when they forgot to pick up Adeline at school, and she wandered around for hours. I thought is was especially mean when Adeline’s father was not worried at all when she called, and when they arrived home, instead of reassuring Adeline that they would not forget her, he gave her a map so she could find her way. Although this may be good for Adeline, to learn, I think that a father should be gentler, and realize that his daughter is young and helpless, and just wants her father to love her.
Another time I thought was weird was when they forgot to pick up Adeline at school, and she wandered around for hours. I thought is was especially mean when Adeline’s father was not worried at all when she called, and when they arrived home, instead of reassuring Adeline that they would not forget her, he gave her a map so she could find her way. Although this may be good for Adeline, to learn, I think that a father should be gentler, and realize that his daughter is young and helpless, and just wants her father to love her.
Post A, Chinese Cinderella
After reading a few chapters in Chinese Cinderella, I have noticed a lot of cultural differences, but two main ones were the Chinese New Year and the fighting between the Japanese and the Chinese. In China when it is the Chinese New Year, everyone gets off work and school for a few days to celebrate and partake in the festivals. “It was a holiday not only for all the schoolchildren in China, but for all the grown-ups as well. Even Father was taking three whole days from work to celebrate” (pg 42). Also everyone wears new outfits on New Year’s Day to signal a new beginning.
Adeline’s dad was taken away by Japanese soldiers and so their family had to move to Shanghai. Everyone had to be careful what they say and do because the Japanese had taken control of many parts of China. Adeline’s family also had to be very secretive when moving, and had their luggage mailed separately, but leaving most behind, because the servants could have become suspicious, and as Adeline’s father said, “‘It’s important that the servants know nothing about my whereabouts. Otherwise, the Japanese might arrest me’” (pg 23).
Adeline’s dad was taken away by Japanese soldiers and so their family had to move to Shanghai. Everyone had to be careful what they say and do because the Japanese had taken control of many parts of China. Adeline’s family also had to be very secretive when moving, and had their luggage mailed separately, but leaving most behind, because the servants could have become suspicious, and as Adeline’s father said, “‘It’s important that the servants know nothing about my whereabouts. Otherwise, the Japanese might arrest me’” (pg 23).
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Post B, Chinese Cinderella
When my sister recommended this book to me , I wasn’t totally sure I would like it, but after the first chapter I was really interested in Adeline’s story, and how anyone could totally ignore their child or be right out mean to their sister. I could not imagine being Adeline and feeling as if no one loved me, and I felt excited for Adeline when she got to wear a medal for an award at school because for once her father noticed her. When I read this passage I felt really bad for Adeline, but was surprised when she barely had a reaction, “On my way back to my seat, I couldn’t help noticing that of all the prizewinners, I was the only one unaccompanied by anyone from my family.[…] As for Big Sister, she had refused to go to school that day. She’d said she had a stomachache” (pg. 16). I also think that it is horrible Adeline’s sister wouldn’t go to school just because it would make her sister happy to have someone there from her family.
I think that Adeline is used to the fact that no one pays attention to her, but is still very sad. Adeline is always talking about how much she loves school, and I think this will be her way of getting her dad’s attention, even if it makes her siblings even crueler to her. Also because Aunt Baba still cares about her, she will keep Adeline determined to do well in school.
I think that Adeline is used to the fact that no one pays attention to her, but is still very sad. Adeline is always talking about how much she loves school, and I think this will be her way of getting her dad’s attention, even if it makes her siblings even crueler to her. Also because Aunt Baba still cares about her, she will keep Adeline determined to do well in school.
Post A, Chines Cinderella
A main reason I chose the book Chinese Cinderella, was because I really didn’t know much about the Chinese culture. After reading a few chapters I have learned a lot about what was going on in China around the 1940s, and some main traditions in their culture.
First of all, I thought it was interesting how extended family all lived together. Their grandma, their grandpa, their aunt, their parents and many children all lived in the same house, and lived like one family, always eating together. Adeline’s family was very rich and also had many servants, cooks, and other help at their house too.
Another cultural difference is the binding of a woman’s feet. Although Adeline did not have her feet bound when she was born because it was banned, her Grandmother Nai Nai’s feet were. In China people believed that having small feet is beautiful, no matter the pain. For the rest of her life, Nai Nai had arthritis because of her bound feet, and could barely walk.
China in the 1940s is under Japanese rule, and Adeline’s family was affected along with many others. Adeline lost family members to the strict Japanese soldiers. Everyone in China had to be very careful what they said and did not to disrespect the Japanese. For example, “Once Big Brother’s friend was kicked and slapped by a Japanese soldier because he forgot to bow when he ran past. That morning, Ye Ye had stopped Third Brother from kicking a paper ball made of old newspapers because a photo of the Japanese emperor was visible on its surface” (pg 16).
Overall, the Chinese culture, and political situations in this time period and now, are very different that how we live.
First of all, I thought it was interesting how extended family all lived together. Their grandma, their grandpa, their aunt, their parents and many children all lived in the same house, and lived like one family, always eating together. Adeline’s family was very rich and also had many servants, cooks, and other help at their house too.
Another cultural difference is the binding of a woman’s feet. Although Adeline did not have her feet bound when she was born because it was banned, her Grandmother Nai Nai’s feet were. In China people believed that having small feet is beautiful, no matter the pain. For the rest of her life, Nai Nai had arthritis because of her bound feet, and could barely walk.
China in the 1940s is under Japanese rule, and Adeline’s family was affected along with many others. Adeline lost family members to the strict Japanese soldiers. Everyone in China had to be very careful what they said and did not to disrespect the Japanese. For example, “Once Big Brother’s friend was kicked and slapped by a Japanese soldier because he forgot to bow when he ran past. That morning, Ye Ye had stopped Third Brother from kicking a paper ball made of old newspapers because a photo of the Japanese emperor was visible on its surface” (pg 16).
Overall, the Chinese culture, and political situations in this time period and now, are very different that how we live.
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
Outside Reading Quarter 4
For outside reading this quarter, I chose the book Chinese Cinderella: The true story of an unwanted daughter, by Adeline Yen Mah. I chose this book because my sister just read it and said it was really good. I think the story looks exciting, and it will be interesting to compare Adeline’s story to our version of Cinderella. From what I read on the back cover, it seems like the story is pretty true to the title, Chinese Cinderella. This is a true story, a memoir, and I think it will also be interesting to learn about the Chinese culture because I have never really read much about it. Overall, I think this looks like a really good book, and I am looking forward to reading it.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
A Northern Light, Week 7- Post B
This week I finished reading A Northern Light. The end wasn’t very surprising, but I was happy Mattie ended up going to New York. I think she always knew she would end up going, because she never was to sure about if being with Royal was the right thing for her.
When I was reading about Weaver’s house being burnt down, I wasn’t expecting anything like that to happen, and thought it was sort of irrelevant. I think this event did add another aspect to the story, and made it a not a happily ever after, but I would have rather read more about the murder of Grace Brown. I think just the letters weren’t suspenseful enough, and more chapters, or more pages should have been devoted to that mystery. Although Mattie seemed to have some connection to Grace, it seemed that the readers didn’t know her well enough to even wonder why she was killed. Overall the book was good, but the author, Jennifer Donnelly could have made less of the book about her home life, and more about The Glenmore. I really didn’t get too interested with the book until Royal Loomis, and when Mattie took the job at the Glenmore.
At the end of the book, I think everything was too perfect. I think that the issues with Hubbards shouldn’t have been wrapped up. I think sometimes it is almost better to leave the readers hanging.
Overall, even though I thought the ending could have been better, I thought the book was good. I never got bored when reading and would recommend this book to anyone.
When I was reading about Weaver’s house being burnt down, I wasn’t expecting anything like that to happen, and thought it was sort of irrelevant. I think this event did add another aspect to the story, and made it a not a happily ever after, but I would have rather read more about the murder of Grace Brown. I think just the letters weren’t suspenseful enough, and more chapters, or more pages should have been devoted to that mystery. Although Mattie seemed to have some connection to Grace, it seemed that the readers didn’t know her well enough to even wonder why she was killed. Overall the book was good, but the author, Jennifer Donnelly could have made less of the book about her home life, and more about The Glenmore. I really didn’t get too interested with the book until Royal Loomis, and when Mattie took the job at the Glenmore.
At the end of the book, I think everything was too perfect. I think that the issues with Hubbards shouldn’t have been wrapped up. I think sometimes it is almost better to leave the readers hanging.
Overall, even though I thought the ending could have been better, I thought the book was good. I never got bored when reading and would recommend this book to anyone.
A Northern Light, Week 7, Post A
VOCAB
Ogle (320): to look at amorously, flirtatiously, or impertinently.
Glower (352): To look or stare angrily or sullenly.
FIGURATIVE LANGUAGE
1.) “She sucked in a mouthful of water and spouted it out like a fountain” (346). This is a simile because it uses ‘like’ to compare a fountain to the way she spat the water out.
2.) “Our happy state of mind persisted for two whole days, then disappeared instantly, as birds will right before it rains” (349). This is a simile, because it uses ‘as’ to compare themselves to birds.
3.) “The hotel itself looked as pretty as a painting” (315). This is a simile because it uses ‘as’ to compare the hotel’s beauty to a painting.
QUOTE
“‘We will. Just go! Before you’re stuck here forever. Like an ant in pitch.’ Like me” (358). This quote describes how much Mattie wants Weaver to not give up his dream of going to college. She doesn’t want anyone to give up and suffer like she will. I also think when she cries for Weaver to go, she is also crying because she can’t go to college either.
THEME
I think a theme for the book as a whole is independence. Mattie is independent when she goes to The Glenmore and is always helping others, but is most importantly an independent thinker. Mattie doesn’t care what others think, doesn’t judge, and does whatever she wants, even if it is looked down upon, like reading.
Ogle (320): to look at amorously, flirtatiously, or impertinently.
Glower (352): To look or stare angrily or sullenly.
FIGURATIVE LANGUAGE
1.) “She sucked in a mouthful of water and spouted it out like a fountain” (346). This is a simile because it uses ‘like’ to compare a fountain to the way she spat the water out.
2.) “Our happy state of mind persisted for two whole days, then disappeared instantly, as birds will right before it rains” (349). This is a simile, because it uses ‘as’ to compare themselves to birds.
3.) “The hotel itself looked as pretty as a painting” (315). This is a simile because it uses ‘as’ to compare the hotel’s beauty to a painting.
QUOTE
“‘We will. Just go! Before you’re stuck here forever. Like an ant in pitch.’ Like me” (358). This quote describes how much Mattie wants Weaver to not give up his dream of going to college. She doesn’t want anyone to give up and suffer like she will. I also think when she cries for Weaver to go, she is also crying because she can’t go to college either.
THEME
I think a theme for the book as a whole is independence. Mattie is independent when she goes to The Glenmore and is always helping others, but is most importantly an independent thinker. Mattie doesn’t care what others think, doesn’t judge, and does whatever she wants, even if it is looked down upon, like reading.
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
A Northern Light, Week 6- Post B
Dear Mattie,
I think your story has become a lot more interesting now that it is mostly about your life at The Glenmore. A lot more happens when your are there, but you are not even working for your original purpose. Your father should not expect you to send money to him; you are working to get to college. Like you said, “And I was finally going. But it felt bittersweet. I wasn’t working to get myself to Barnard. I was working because Pa needed help to pay for the new mule.” (pg 241). At the beginning you feel this way because you still want to go to New York, and go to college, but towards the end of what I read, you say, you would rather give up your dreams, and make a life with Royal instead. Though you think this is a good idea now, it may not be a good one for long. Why does Royal like you so much all of a sudden, when he never looked at you before? Maybe Royal will leave you later, and by then you will have missed your chance at Barnard. In my opinion you should continue working and go to college, and maybe if Royal is wiling to wait, you can marry him when you return. It seems so far you have made good decisions either way, so I’m sure you will do fine.
Lastly I agree with you about the letters that Grace was murdered, but I’m still confused why. I’m sure I will find out soon. Good Luck working at The Glenmore.
-Annabel
I think your story has become a lot more interesting now that it is mostly about your life at The Glenmore. A lot more happens when your are there, but you are not even working for your original purpose. Your father should not expect you to send money to him; you are working to get to college. Like you said, “And I was finally going. But it felt bittersweet. I wasn’t working to get myself to Barnard. I was working because Pa needed help to pay for the new mule.” (pg 241). At the beginning you feel this way because you still want to go to New York, and go to college, but towards the end of what I read, you say, you would rather give up your dreams, and make a life with Royal instead. Though you think this is a good idea now, it may not be a good one for long. Why does Royal like you so much all of a sudden, when he never looked at you before? Maybe Royal will leave you later, and by then you will have missed your chance at Barnard. In my opinion you should continue working and go to college, and maybe if Royal is wiling to wait, you can marry him when you return. It seems so far you have made good decisions either way, so I’m sure you will do fine.
Lastly I agree with you about the letters that Grace was murdered, but I’m still confused why. I’m sure I will find out soon. Good Luck working at The Glenmore.
-Annabel
A Northern Light, Week 6-Post A
VOCAB
Icosahedron (242): a solid figure having 20 faces.
Surrey (243): a light, four-wheeled, two-seated carriage, with or without a top, for four persons.
FIGURATIVE LANGUAGE
1.) “I blew on my finger like it was a pistol stock” (248). This is a simile because it uses ‘like’ to compare her finger to a pistol.
2.) “She flitted and hid prettily amongst her words like a butterfly in a garden” (266). This is a simile because it uses ‘like’ to compare her to a butterfly.
3.) “They screwed up their tiny faces and opened their little pink mouths like two screeching baby birds” (271). This is s simile because it uses ‘like’ to compare the babies to birds.
QUOTE
“I wanted to see if maybe she could help me figure a way to both be married to Royal and still be a writer, to be two things at once—like one of those fancy coats they have in the Sears and Roebuck catalog that you can change into a whole different coat just by turning it inside out”(270). This quote shows how Mattie still wants to be a writer, but is torn whether or not it is worth giving up Royal. I also think it is not only herself wanting Royal, I think that her family and friends are putting pressure on her to settle down and get married rather that going off to college.
THEME
A theme is giving up. Mattie has seemed to have given up on the dream to go to college, and is set on the idea of marrying Royal. She does not want to be lonely and decides if she did go to college she probably wouldn’t end up marrying Royal. Also, several times, Mattie almost gives up on working at The Glenmore even though she really needs the money.
Icosahedron (242): a solid figure having 20 faces.
Surrey (243): a light, four-wheeled, two-seated carriage, with or without a top, for four persons.
FIGURATIVE LANGUAGE
1.) “I blew on my finger like it was a pistol stock” (248). This is a simile because it uses ‘like’ to compare her finger to a pistol.
2.) “She flitted and hid prettily amongst her words like a butterfly in a garden” (266). This is a simile because it uses ‘like’ to compare her to a butterfly.
3.) “They screwed up their tiny faces and opened their little pink mouths like two screeching baby birds” (271). This is s simile because it uses ‘like’ to compare the babies to birds.
QUOTE
“I wanted to see if maybe she could help me figure a way to both be married to Royal and still be a writer, to be two things at once—like one of those fancy coats they have in the Sears and Roebuck catalog that you can change into a whole different coat just by turning it inside out”(270). This quote shows how Mattie still wants to be a writer, but is torn whether or not it is worth giving up Royal. I also think it is not only herself wanting Royal, I think that her family and friends are putting pressure on her to settle down and get married rather that going off to college.
THEME
A theme is giving up. Mattie has seemed to have given up on the dream to go to college, and is set on the idea of marrying Royal. She does not want to be lonely and decides if she did go to college she probably wouldn’t end up marrying Royal. Also, several times, Mattie almost gives up on working at The Glenmore even though she really needs the money.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
A Northern Light, Week 5-Post B
Right now in A Northern Light, I really have gotten into it. The book is really starting to get exciting, and lots of different things are happening. It seems to me, that there is way more than just the two plots (The Glenmore and back at home). The plots include, Mattie and Royal, Mattie and her Dad, the murder of Grace, and Mattie’s work towards college/New York.
As Mattie begins to like Royal more and more, I think she gets wrapped up in it, and is loosing her true self. For example Mattie almost turned down a job she would love, sorting books, which would also help her make enough for a train ticket to New York, but was hesitant because she was not sure what Royal would think. Before Mattie even got to know Royal, Mattie hated him because he questioned/teased her about her love for reading and writing. Also, Mattie basically said yes to marry Royal, even though she barely knows him. “[…] I wondered if he was supposed to have said her loved me when he told me about the ring. Or maybe that came later” (226). I think this quote shows you Mattie still has some, good sense, but is falling into everyone’s trap. Before Mattie didn’t care what anyone thought, but now she is giving up a dream for some boy, who doesn’t even seem to care that much about her.
One last thing I noticed when reading about Mattie and Lou in Miss Wilcox’s library was, “One was about Penelope, the wife of Ulysses, setting fire to her loom and heading off to do some traveling herself” (208). When Mattie mentioned this poem I thought it was kind of ironic since we had just finish The Odyssey, and poems about The Odyssey.
As Mattie begins to like Royal more and more, I think she gets wrapped up in it, and is loosing her true self. For example Mattie almost turned down a job she would love, sorting books, which would also help her make enough for a train ticket to New York, but was hesitant because she was not sure what Royal would think. Before Mattie even got to know Royal, Mattie hated him because he questioned/teased her about her love for reading and writing. Also, Mattie basically said yes to marry Royal, even though she barely knows him. “[…] I wondered if he was supposed to have said her loved me when he told me about the ring. Or maybe that came later” (226). I think this quote shows you Mattie still has some, good sense, but is falling into everyone’s trap. Before Mattie didn’t care what anyone thought, but now she is giving up a dream for some boy, who doesn’t even seem to care that much about her.
One last thing I noticed when reading about Mattie and Lou in Miss Wilcox’s library was, “One was about Penelope, the wife of Ulysses, setting fire to her loom and heading off to do some traveling herself” (208). When Mattie mentioned this poem I thought it was kind of ironic since we had just finish The Odyssey, and poems about The Odyssey.
A Northern Light, Week 5-Post A
VOCAB
Odious (219): deserving or causing hatred; hateful; detestable
Dehiscence (206): Botany. the natural bursting open of capsules, fruits, anthers, etc., for the discharge of their contents
FIGURATIVE LANGUAGE
1.) “I didn’t say anything, but my eyes must have been as big and as round as two fried eggs”(221). This is a simile because it uses ‘as’ to compare her eyes and eggs.
2.) “His heart was beating slow and steady unlike my own, which was thumping like a thresher”(224). This is a simile because it compares Mattie’s heart to a thresher, using ‘like’.
3.) “As soon as the children saw Beth and me, they swarmed us like kittens around a milk pail” (230). This is a simile because it uses ‘like’ to compare the way the children surrounded them to kittens surrounding milk.
QUOTE
“She feels sick, so sick she could vomit. Because she thinks she knows why Chester brought Grace here. And it wasn’t to elope” (238). This quote is when Mattie is at The Glenmore, and after reading Grace’s letters she realizes Grace was murdered. I think is will be a big turning point in the book, because before we didn’t know much about what was going on at The Glenmore and we didn’t know much about Grace. This will give Mattie trouble; she will have to decide whether or not to tell someone.
THEME
I think a theme is promises. Throughout these chapters Mattie questions the promises she has made to both her mother and Grace before they died. Mattie promised her mother to stay home and watch her sisters, but wants to go to college. Mattie promised Grace she would burn her letters, but continues to read them.
Odious (219): deserving or causing hatred; hateful; detestable
Dehiscence (206): Botany. the natural bursting open of capsules, fruits, anthers, etc., for the discharge of their contents
FIGURATIVE LANGUAGE
1.) “I didn’t say anything, but my eyes must have been as big and as round as two fried eggs”(221). This is a simile because it uses ‘as’ to compare her eyes and eggs.
2.) “His heart was beating slow and steady unlike my own, which was thumping like a thresher”(224). This is a simile because it compares Mattie’s heart to a thresher, using ‘like’.
3.) “As soon as the children saw Beth and me, they swarmed us like kittens around a milk pail” (230). This is a simile because it uses ‘like’ to compare the way the children surrounded them to kittens surrounding milk.
QUOTE
“She feels sick, so sick she could vomit. Because she thinks she knows why Chester brought Grace here. And it wasn’t to elope” (238). This quote is when Mattie is at The Glenmore, and after reading Grace’s letters she realizes Grace was murdered. I think is will be a big turning point in the book, because before we didn’t know much about what was going on at The Glenmore and we didn’t know much about Grace. This will give Mattie trouble; she will have to decide whether or not to tell someone.
THEME
I think a theme is promises. Throughout these chapters Mattie questions the promises she has made to both her mother and Grace before they died. Mattie promised her mother to stay home and watch her sisters, but wants to go to college. Mattie promised Grace she would burn her letters, but continues to read them.
A Northern Light, Week 4-Post B
Dear Mattie,
I have come to really look forward to reading the sections in the story about The Glenmore, and the possible murder of Grace Brown. As you read more and more letters revealing that the person who she is with, may not really be who he says he is, makes me think it might actually be a murder. Why else would someone fake a name? And why else, would someone bring all their luggage with them boating, and then mysteriously disappear? Also when you made the comment that, why would Grace give you the letters and expect you to burn them, without even thinking you may read them. I bet her intention was to have you read them, so you could inform someone about what actually happened. Maybe Grace Brown was kidnapped, because she is always writing to someone, and wanting them to come for her. But if she was kidnapped, she probably couldn’t write letters.
If I was in your situation, I would probably not sneak around, although I would want to. I would be very nervous I would be caught, especially if, like you I really needed the money I was making at the Glenmore. I wonder if you will tell your friends about this, or you will keep it to yourself. I can’t wait to see what will happen with the mystery. Good Luck in school, and finding more out about the murder.
-Annabel
I have come to really look forward to reading the sections in the story about The Glenmore, and the possible murder of Grace Brown. As you read more and more letters revealing that the person who she is with, may not really be who he says he is, makes me think it might actually be a murder. Why else would someone fake a name? And why else, would someone bring all their luggage with them boating, and then mysteriously disappear? Also when you made the comment that, why would Grace give you the letters and expect you to burn them, without even thinking you may read them. I bet her intention was to have you read them, so you could inform someone about what actually happened. Maybe Grace Brown was kidnapped, because she is always writing to someone, and wanting them to come for her. But if she was kidnapped, she probably couldn’t write letters.
If I was in your situation, I would probably not sneak around, although I would want to. I would be very nervous I would be caught, especially if, like you I really needed the money I was making at the Glenmore. I wonder if you will tell your friends about this, or you will keep it to yourself. I can’t wait to see what will happen with the mystery. Good Luck in school, and finding more out about the murder.
-Annabel
Monday, March 3, 2008
A Northern Light, Week 4- Post A
VOCAB
Bateau(149): Chiefly Canadian and Southern U.S.. a small, flat-bottomed rowboat used on rivers
Peavey(159): a cant hook with a sharply pointed end, used in handling logs.
FIGURATIVE LANGUAGE
1.) “She was making a terrible noise, bellowing like someone had cut off all four of her legs” (116-117). This is a simile because it uses ‘like’ to compare two things.
2.) “He was huge and fearsome and as black as midnight, and he was watching us” (118). This is a simile because it uses ‘as’ to describe his color, and midnight.
3.) “Memories tangled in the curtains” (134-135). This is personification because it says “memories are tangled”, when memories physically can’t be tangled.
QUOTE
“He’d be furious, but only because he was loosing a pair of hands. He wouldn’t miss me one bit, but that was all right. I wouldn’t miss him either.” (159). I think this quote shows how bad mentally and physically Mattie’s father is bad to her. He father whips her when she is bad, which she obviously doesn’t like, but he is also hard on her when it comes to taking care of the family and going to school. I think her dad would just be mad at her for leaving, not sad.
THEME
An emerging theme is hope. With Mrs. Wilcox trying to convince Mattie’s father to let her go, and her Uncle Fifty promising her money, it seems that Mattie may have chance at go to New York.
Bateau(149): Chiefly Canadian and Southern U.S.. a small, flat-bottomed rowboat used on rivers
Peavey(159): a cant hook with a sharply pointed end, used in handling logs.
FIGURATIVE LANGUAGE
1.) “She was making a terrible noise, bellowing like someone had cut off all four of her legs” (116-117). This is a simile because it uses ‘like’ to compare two things.
2.) “He was huge and fearsome and as black as midnight, and he was watching us” (118). This is a simile because it uses ‘as’ to describe his color, and midnight.
3.) “Memories tangled in the curtains” (134-135). This is personification because it says “memories are tangled”, when memories physically can’t be tangled.
QUOTE
“He’d be furious, but only because he was loosing a pair of hands. He wouldn’t miss me one bit, but that was all right. I wouldn’t miss him either.” (159). I think this quote shows how bad mentally and physically Mattie’s father is bad to her. He father whips her when she is bad, which she obviously doesn’t like, but he is also hard on her when it comes to taking care of the family and going to school. I think her dad would just be mad at her for leaving, not sad.
THEME
An emerging theme is hope. With Mrs. Wilcox trying to convince Mattie’s father to let her go, and her Uncle Fifty promising her money, it seems that Mattie may have chance at go to New York.
Monday, February 25, 2008
A Northern LIght-Week 3, Post B
Dear Mattie,
Your story is very interesting, and I am having trouble putting the book down. I really admire your determination and hope, and was fascinated when I read this, “I remained on the ladder, looking at the figurine in my hand. You’re wrong, Aunt Josie, I thought. It’s not pride I’m feeling. It’s another sin. Worse than all the other ones, which are immediate, violent, and hot. This one sits inside you quietly and eats you from the inside out like the trichina worms the pigs get. It’s the Eighth Deadly Sin. The one God left out. Hope.” (114). Hope is all you can do when you are in the situation you are in. In the story you really rebel against your family and the town, and though people look down on you for it, but I think someone will eventually understand and it will all be worth it. I think that the reason you are so smart is because of how much you put into it no matter what anyone tells you. Even when a boy like Royal likes you, you don’t fall into everyone’s trap, and you keep your eye on the prize. If I was you, I probably couldn’t handle the pressure, and would end up staying home and helping my dad and marrying Royal. Obviously we know you do go to Glenmore because we’ve read about it, but I am still excited to learn how you convinced your dad. Especially after he hit you for buying a notebook, which was horrible, I am surprised he ever let you go. Overall I think you are very courageous to face people how you do, and I think you truly deserve to make enough money to go to New York. Good Luck!
-Annabel
Your story is very interesting, and I am having trouble putting the book down. I really admire your determination and hope, and was fascinated when I read this, “I remained on the ladder, looking at the figurine in my hand. You’re wrong, Aunt Josie, I thought. It’s not pride I’m feeling. It’s another sin. Worse than all the other ones, which are immediate, violent, and hot. This one sits inside you quietly and eats you from the inside out like the trichina worms the pigs get. It’s the Eighth Deadly Sin. The one God left out. Hope.” (114). Hope is all you can do when you are in the situation you are in. In the story you really rebel against your family and the town, and though people look down on you for it, but I think someone will eventually understand and it will all be worth it. I think that the reason you are so smart is because of how much you put into it no matter what anyone tells you. Even when a boy like Royal likes you, you don’t fall into everyone’s trap, and you keep your eye on the prize. If I was you, I probably couldn’t handle the pressure, and would end up staying home and helping my dad and marrying Royal. Obviously we know you do go to Glenmore because we’ve read about it, but I am still excited to learn how you convinced your dad. Especially after he hit you for buying a notebook, which was horrible, I am surprised he ever let you go. Overall I think you are very courageous to face people how you do, and I think you truly deserve to make enough money to go to New York. Good Luck!
-Annabel
A Northern Light- Week 3, Post A
VOCAB
Wan (84): showing or suggesting ill health, fatigue, unhappiness, etc.
Rheumatism (105): any disorder of the extremities or back, characterized by pain and stiffness.
FIGURATIVE LANGUAGE
1.) “Charred tree stumps stuck up in the front yard, as black and as random as an old man’s teeth” (85). This is a simile because it uses ‘as’ to compare the stumps in the yard to an old man’s teeth.
2.) “Everything changed as I spoke. Aunt Josie’s smile slid of her face like ice off a tin roof” (113). This is a simile because it uses ‘like’ to describe how fast her smile slid off her face.
3.) “‘You’re on a very high horse, Mathilda. I don’t know who put you there, but you’d best get down off it. And fast’” (113). This is a metaphor describing how Mattie, according to her aunt, has gotten herself into a lot of trouble, and she doesn’t know how she is going to get out of it.
QUOTE
“Wilcox had books but no family. Minnie had a family now, but those babies would keep her from reading for a good long time. Some people, like my aunt Josie and Alvah Dunning the hermit, had neither love nor books. Nobody I knew had both.”(97). This quote shows how the people of this time period felt about reading. It seems that people like Mattie’s teacher Miss Wilcox, are excluded from many parts of society because they want to learn. This quote makes me wonder why Mattie still wants to keep reading. I think Mattie will convince the people of her town that learning isn’t such a bad thing.
THEME
A theme in this section of the book is choices. Mattie’s aunt and her father both put pressure on Mattie, forcing her to make choices. Mattie usually ends up doing what the other person wants, rather that reading or doing what she pleases. I feel bad for Mattie, but in her situation sometimes she has to give up reading to support and work for her family.
Wan (84): showing or suggesting ill health, fatigue, unhappiness, etc.
Rheumatism (105): any disorder of the extremities or back, characterized by pain and stiffness.
FIGURATIVE LANGUAGE
1.) “Charred tree stumps stuck up in the front yard, as black and as random as an old man’s teeth” (85). This is a simile because it uses ‘as’ to compare the stumps in the yard to an old man’s teeth.
2.) “Everything changed as I spoke. Aunt Josie’s smile slid of her face like ice off a tin roof” (113). This is a simile because it uses ‘like’ to describe how fast her smile slid off her face.
3.) “‘You’re on a very high horse, Mathilda. I don’t know who put you there, but you’d best get down off it. And fast’” (113). This is a metaphor describing how Mattie, according to her aunt, has gotten herself into a lot of trouble, and she doesn’t know how she is going to get out of it.
QUOTE
“Wilcox had books but no family. Minnie had a family now, but those babies would keep her from reading for a good long time. Some people, like my aunt Josie and Alvah Dunning the hermit, had neither love nor books. Nobody I knew had both.”(97). This quote shows how the people of this time period felt about reading. It seems that people like Mattie’s teacher Miss Wilcox, are excluded from many parts of society because they want to learn. This quote makes me wonder why Mattie still wants to keep reading. I think Mattie will convince the people of her town that learning isn’t such a bad thing.
THEME
A theme in this section of the book is choices. Mattie’s aunt and her father both put pressure on Mattie, forcing her to make choices. Mattie usually ends up doing what the other person wants, rather that reading or doing what she pleases. I feel bad for Mattie, but in her situation sometimes she has to give up reading to support and work for her family.
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
A Northern Light, Week 2- Post B
“I thought of my word of the day. Can a girl be unmanned? I wondered. By a boy? Can she be unbrained?”(78). I think this quote shows a lot about the story, and Mattie’s character. Mattie is very intelligent and everyday looks up a new word. She is always looking for ways to use her word of the day, and loves to write, but can barely afford a pencil. Mattie is very smart, but unlike today, girls, like her seem to be looked down on for there intelligence, especially by boys. When Mattie wonders this, I think she questions whether or not a man can take her intelligence away from her. Can they take her right to read and write away from her?
Mattie always stands up for herself, but when men like Royal and her father question her, I think Mattie becomes less confident. Even though Mattie’s father doesn’t have a son that helps him anymore, I don’t think that is a reason for him to not let her go to Glenmore. I think he should take some of the burden of her hands, and let her do what she wants for a change. Her father should be encouraging rather than discouraging Mattie.
Obviously Mattie’s father lets her go to Glenmore because she is there in the other chapters, but I wonder if she still is learning a new word each day. I wonder if she will continue to have the determination to learn as she has now.
Mattie always stands up for herself, but when men like Royal and her father question her, I think Mattie becomes less confident. Even though Mattie’s father doesn’t have a son that helps him anymore, I don’t think that is a reason for him to not let her go to Glenmore. I think he should take some of the burden of her hands, and let her do what she wants for a change. Her father should be encouraging rather than discouraging Mattie.
Obviously Mattie’s father lets her go to Glenmore because she is there in the other chapters, but I wonder if she still is learning a new word each day. I wonder if she will continue to have the determination to learn as she has now.
A Northern Light, Week 2- Post A
VOCAB
Adamant (48): utterly unyielding in attitude or opinion in spite of all appeals, urgings, etc.
Unman (75): to deprive of courage or fortitude; break down the manly spirit of
FIGURATIVE LANGUAGE
1.) “It was as black as wet coffee grounds” (52). This is a simile because it compares the dirt to the coffee beans by using the word ‘as’.
2.) “My pa was so handsome when he smiled, with his eyes as blue as cornflowers and his beautiful white teeth” (55). This is a simile because it uses the word ‘as’ to compare his eyes to cornflowers.
3.) “Guilt gnawed at my insides” (71). This is personification because it gives human qualities to guilt. Guilt can’t gnaw.
QUOTE
“His hand finds mine. ‘I hate this place Mattie,’ he says. ‘It kills everything.’” (83). Weaver is talking to Mattie after he saw the women who was killed in the boat accident, and says this. We still don’t know much about Mattie’s life here in Glenmore, but maybe this is telling us that either there have been more deaths here, or maybe this place just kills people’s hopes and dreams.
THEME
I think a theme is perseverance. Mattie has worked hard her whole life, especially since her mother died, and still has overcome obstacles to reach her goal of getting into college. Though people in the town question, and look down on Mattie, especially her father, she still succeeds.
Adamant (48): utterly unyielding in attitude or opinion in spite of all appeals, urgings, etc.
Unman (75): to deprive of courage or fortitude; break down the manly spirit of
FIGURATIVE LANGUAGE
1.) “It was as black as wet coffee grounds” (52). This is a simile because it compares the dirt to the coffee beans by using the word ‘as’.
2.) “My pa was so handsome when he smiled, with his eyes as blue as cornflowers and his beautiful white teeth” (55). This is a simile because it uses the word ‘as’ to compare his eyes to cornflowers.
3.) “Guilt gnawed at my insides” (71). This is personification because it gives human qualities to guilt. Guilt can’t gnaw.
QUOTE
“His hand finds mine. ‘I hate this place Mattie,’ he says. ‘It kills everything.’” (83). Weaver is talking to Mattie after he saw the women who was killed in the boat accident, and says this. We still don’t know much about Mattie’s life here in Glenmore, but maybe this is telling us that either there have been more deaths here, or maybe this place just kills people’s hopes and dreams.
THEME
I think a theme is perseverance. Mattie has worked hard her whole life, especially since her mother died, and still has overcome obstacles to reach her goal of getting into college. Though people in the town question, and look down on Mattie, especially her father, she still succeeds.
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
A Northern Light, Week 1-Post B
After reading my book, A Northern Light, by Jennifer Donnelly for the first time, I think it is good. As I can tell so far, the book switches from present to past, every couple chapters. The book abruptly started at a hotel where Mattie and her friends are working, and they just found a dead body in the lake. I was confused at what was happening at all, until it switched to the past and I got some background. Mattie seems very smart, but is always writing sad poems and stories, rather that happy, which I think is probably because she is still grieving over the loss of her mother. After her mother died, it seems that Mattie has taken the mother role of the family, and feels responsible for everyone. Thought Mattie has this burden, I think this gives her a better reason to go to college and gives her more determination. I think Mattie deserves it.
When Mattie is at the hotel wondering what possibly could have happened to the couple who died, she makes up a story and at the end says,
“I decide that I like it. It’s a new kind of story for me-the kind that stitches things up nicely and leaves no end dangling and makes me feel placid instead of all stirred up. The kind that has a happy ending-or at least as happy an ending as possible with the heroine dead and the hero presumed so. The kind of story I once told Miss Wilcox was a lie. The kind I said I would never ever write.” (pg. 47).
I think this tells us that eventually something that happens to Mattie before or during her stay at the hotel, that helps her get over her grief, or helps her realize there is more to life than sadness. Maybe, right then after making up that story, Mattie realizes she shouldn’t find reasons to make her sad when she could be happy.
When Mattie is at the hotel wondering what possibly could have happened to the couple who died, she makes up a story and at the end says,
“I decide that I like it. It’s a new kind of story for me-the kind that stitches things up nicely and leaves no end dangling and makes me feel placid instead of all stirred up. The kind that has a happy ending-or at least as happy an ending as possible with the heroine dead and the hero presumed so. The kind of story I once told Miss Wilcox was a lie. The kind I said I would never ever write.” (pg. 47).
I think this tells us that eventually something that happens to Mattie before or during her stay at the hotel, that helps her get over her grief, or helps her realize there is more to life than sadness. Maybe, right then after making up that story, Mattie realizes she shouldn’t find reasons to make her sad when she could be happy.
A Nrothern Light, Week 1- Post A
VOCAB
Peevish (23): showing annoyance, irritation, or bad mood
Abecedarian (26): a beginner in any field of learning
FIGURATIVE LANGUAGE
1.) “The sky, gray and lowering for much of the year, becomes an ocean of blue”(pg. 1). This is a metaphor because it describes the sky as looking like an ocean, without using like or as.
2.) “ Her head lolls against him like a broken flower”(pg. 3). This is a simile because it uses like to compare her head to a flower.
3.) “I tell myself that Ada is a nervous hen, always worrying when there’s no cause.” (pg. 3). This is a metaphor because it compares Ada to a hen without using like or as.
QUOTE
“Right now I want a word that describes the feeling you get- a cold, sick feeling deep down inside-when you know something is happening that will change you, and you don’t want it to, but you can’t stop it. And you know, for the first time, that there will now be a before and an after, a was and a will be. And that you will never again be quite the same person you were.” (pg. 2).
This quote is at the beginning of the book, and I think that it is foreshadowing that this event will indefinitely change Mattie. This also describes Mattie in that she is always looking for what words to use, because she is so interested in words and writing. Even though you really have no idea what is happening in the story, this gives you an idea of how major this is.
THEME
I think an emerging theme is determination, Mattie is determined to keep learning, go to school, keep her family going, keep everyone happy, and is even trying to save money for college.
Peevish (23): showing annoyance, irritation, or bad mood
Abecedarian (26): a beginner in any field of learning
FIGURATIVE LANGUAGE
1.) “The sky, gray and lowering for much of the year, becomes an ocean of blue”(pg. 1). This is a metaphor because it describes the sky as looking like an ocean, without using like or as.
2.) “ Her head lolls against him like a broken flower”(pg. 3). This is a simile because it uses like to compare her head to a flower.
3.) “I tell myself that Ada is a nervous hen, always worrying when there’s no cause.” (pg. 3). This is a metaphor because it compares Ada to a hen without using like or as.
QUOTE
“Right now I want a word that describes the feeling you get- a cold, sick feeling deep down inside-when you know something is happening that will change you, and you don’t want it to, but you can’t stop it. And you know, for the first time, that there will now be a before and an after, a was and a will be. And that you will never again be quite the same person you were.” (pg. 2).
This quote is at the beginning of the book, and I think that it is foreshadowing that this event will indefinitely change Mattie. This also describes Mattie in that she is always looking for what words to use, because she is so interested in words and writing. Even though you really have no idea what is happening in the story, this gives you an idea of how major this is.
THEME
I think an emerging theme is determination, Mattie is determined to keep learning, go to school, keep her family going, keep everyone happy, and is even trying to save money for college.
Sunday, February 3, 2008
Telemachus, "Stop and Stare"-One Republic
I picked Telemachus because of his determination to find his dad, Odysseus. Telemachus left everything behind, with no guarantee he would actually find his dad, or even ever return home again. He left everyone wondering where he was and what they should do in his absence. It really surprised me that he didn’t even tell his mom, Penelope, that he was leaving to find his dad. Even though he probably wanted to avoid the pressure she would put on him to stay, it still seemed like telling her first would have been the right thing to do.
The song “Stop and Stare”, by One Republic, reminds me of Telemachus’ determination and the events that happened because of his journey. After his abrupt disappearance, the town, the suitors and his mother were mad at him for leaving, but Telemachus decided this is what he needed to do, and he was set on finding his dad. Telemachus was determined and wouldn’t let anyone stop him.
This town is colder now, I think it's sick of us
It's time to make our move, I'm shakin off the rust
I've got my heart set on anywhere but here
I'm staring down myself, counting up the years
Steady hands, just take the wheel...
And every glance is killing me
Time to make one last appeal... for the life I lead
While Telemachus kept moving in his journey, he wasn’t really moving forward. Even though he received information from Nestor, Helen, and Menelaus, he never actually came closer to finding his dad. Sometimes Telemachus second guessed himself and wondered if he should be home rather than searching, but in the end he was willing to give anything to find his dad.
Stop and stare
I think I'm moving but I go nowhere
Yeah I know that everyone gets scared
But I've become what I can't be, oh
Stop and stare
You start to wonder why you're 'here' not there
And you'd give anything to get what's fair
But fair ain't what you really need
Oh, can u see what I see
They're tryin to come back, all my senses push
Un-tie the weight bags, I never thought I could...
Steady feet, don't fail me now
Gonna run till you can't walk
But something pulls my focus out
And I'm standing down...
Stop and stare
I think I'm moving but I go nowhere
Yeah I know that everyone gets scared
But I've become what I can't be, oh
Stop and stare
You start to wonder why you're here not there
And you'd give anything to get what's fair
But fair ain't what you really need
Oh, you don't need
What u need, what u need...
Stop and stare
I think I'm moving but I go nowhere
Yeah I know that everyone gets scared
But I've become what I can't be
Oh, do u see what I see...
The song “Stop and Stare”, by One Republic, reminds me of Telemachus’ determination and the events that happened because of his journey. After his abrupt disappearance, the town, the suitors and his mother were mad at him for leaving, but Telemachus decided this is what he needed to do, and he was set on finding his dad. Telemachus was determined and wouldn’t let anyone stop him.
This town is colder now, I think it's sick of us
It's time to make our move, I'm shakin off the rust
I've got my heart set on anywhere but here
I'm staring down myself, counting up the years
Steady hands, just take the wheel...
And every glance is killing me
Time to make one last appeal... for the life I lead
While Telemachus kept moving in his journey, he wasn’t really moving forward. Even though he received information from Nestor, Helen, and Menelaus, he never actually came closer to finding his dad. Sometimes Telemachus second guessed himself and wondered if he should be home rather than searching, but in the end he was willing to give anything to find his dad.
Stop and stare
I think I'm moving but I go nowhere
Yeah I know that everyone gets scared
But I've become what I can't be, oh
Stop and stare
You start to wonder why you're 'here' not there
And you'd give anything to get what's fair
But fair ain't what you really need
Oh, can u see what I see
They're tryin to come back, all my senses push
Un-tie the weight bags, I never thought I could...
Steady feet, don't fail me now
Gonna run till you can't walk
But something pulls my focus out
And I'm standing down...
Stop and stare
I think I'm moving but I go nowhere
Yeah I know that everyone gets scared
But I've become what I can't be, oh
Stop and stare
You start to wonder why you're here not there
And you'd give anything to get what's fair
But fair ain't what you really need
Oh, you don't need
What u need, what u need...
Stop and stare
I think I'm moving but I go nowhere
Yeah I know that everyone gets scared
But I've become what I can't be
Oh, do u see what I see...
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
The Rest of Her Life, Week 7-Post B
In the this section of the book what most interested me was when Kara, Leigh, and Gary went to the farmer’s market and saw Bethany’s mother there, Diane Kletchka. When she saw them she began hurling insults at Kara, unaware of any feelings she might have, and said to Kara “Cause it’s a sunny day! And you don’t really feel that bad, do you?”(234). I could tell how much pain Diane must have been in, but it is no reason to put Kara down. I though it was especially out of line what she said “‘Who was worth more than you, more than you could ever be worth, you stupid, spoiled lit-’”. Diane was saying Bethany was more important than Kara. Following that Leigh stood up for Kara. I think this showed the readers and Kara, that Leigh was really supporting Kara and trying to reconnect. Leigh had wanted to show Kara how she really felt, and I think she did, and since the incident, the two seem to be a lot closer.
I also think this incident made Kara really think about what she has done. Kara has been thinking about applying for a diversion so she won’t have to go to jail. Kara’s parents would like her to apply, but she wants to go to jail and pay her debt. I think this has made her feel guilty and really reconsider if it was truly her fault. Though it is right for Kara to feel guilty, I think for her and her parent’s sake, she should consider the future, and apply for the diversion and go to college.
I also think this incident made Kara really think about what she has done. Kara has been thinking about applying for a diversion so she won’t have to go to jail. Kara’s parents would like her to apply, but she wants to go to jail and pay her debt. I think this has made her feel guilty and really reconsider if it was truly her fault. Though it is right for Kara to feel guilty, I think for her and her parent’s sake, she should consider the future, and apply for the diversion and go to college.
The Rest of Her Life, Week 7-Post A
VOCAB
Bigoted (212): utterly intolerant of any creed, belief, or opinion that differs from one's own.
Pragmatic (245): Dealing or concerned with facts or actual occurrences; practical.
FIGURATIVE LANUGAGE
1.“She could hear the words come out of her daughter’s mouth as clearly as they’d just come out of her own”(217). This is a simile because it uses “as” to compare two things.
2.“her hand flat like a visor over her eyes”(256). This is a simile because it uses like to compare a visor and her hand.
3.“ Her mind reeled”(226). This is figurative language because the mind can’t reel; it is giving it human actions.
Quote
“Leigh could see only her profile, but something about her eyes-at least the eye Leigh could see-made her pull her hand back. The woman’s gaze was so focused, it looked predatory” (221). This quote is when Leigh saw Bethany’s mother (her daughter was killed), and Leigh is describing her and how she is looking at Kara. This shows how much Bethany’s mother dislikes Kara by just the way she looks at her. This is foreshadowing to a later event.
THEME
I think the theme in the section I read was reunion. Kara and Leigh regain their relationship, Eva and Leigh become better friends again, and the whole family including Justin and Gary all seem to grow closer.
Bigoted (212): utterly intolerant of any creed, belief, or opinion that differs from one's own.
Pragmatic (245): Dealing or concerned with facts or actual occurrences; practical.
FIGURATIVE LANUGAGE
1.“She could hear the words come out of her daughter’s mouth as clearly as they’d just come out of her own”(217). This is a simile because it uses “as” to compare two things.
2.“her hand flat like a visor over her eyes”(256). This is a simile because it uses like to compare a visor and her hand.
3.“ Her mind reeled”(226). This is figurative language because the mind can’t reel; it is giving it human actions.
Quote
“Leigh could see only her profile, but something about her eyes-at least the eye Leigh could see-made her pull her hand back. The woman’s gaze was so focused, it looked predatory” (221). This quote is when Leigh saw Bethany’s mother (her daughter was killed), and Leigh is describing her and how she is looking at Kara. This shows how much Bethany’s mother dislikes Kara by just the way she looks at her. This is foreshadowing to a later event.
THEME
I think the theme in the section I read was reunion. Kara and Leigh regain their relationship, Eva and Leigh become better friends again, and the whole family including Justin and Gary all seem to grow closer.
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