Blog Response #1
Now that you have received your book and have started to read it, please share the reasons why you chose Running Loose, Staying Fat for Sarah Byrnes, Stotan! or Chinese Handcuffs. Please give specific reasons as to why this book was in your top 3 choices. Are you happy with your choice so far? Also, please include your initial thoughts on the book, as you have started to read it. Are you finding the book enjoyable? Is the reading interesting? Are you making connections?
**A Reminder. Please remember to include your name within your blog, so I can give you a grade. Please respond not only to this blog topic, but also please write a comment or a response to two of your classmates' responses. You may respond to those students who are reading the same book as you are, or you can try to make connections between your book and the other books that students are reading in this class or my other 4B class. Blog response is worth 20 points, so please answer accordingly. One word responses or inappropriate comments will earn you a zero, so please keep that in mind. Have Fun! Happy Blogging!!
Staying Fat for Sarah Byrnes was my top choices because it involved swimming which caught my attention. I have not read much so far, but I think I am going to enjoy it. I understand all the swimming terms which makes me enjoy reading it more. I feel bad that Eric's dad is not in the picture and he had to grow up without him:(. I am on page 6, so I have not made a lot of connections so far, but I'm excited to find out what this book is going to be all about.
ReplyDeleteI love that you picked this because of the swimming aspect! Also, I have made some of the same a connection too about how terrible Eric's dad is. I am also very excited to find out more about this book!
DeleteThis book is a perfect fit for you because you are a swimmer. I also put that I felt bad for Eric, given that his dad is not in his life. I also have only made it to page 6 and am excited to see where this goes.
DeleteI am glad that you haven't read much of the book, but you can tell that you are going to like it! Also, I love that you can relate to Eric with the swimming aspect. Although he is a boy and it is from a boy's perspective, you and he can relate with swimming. I am also excited to find out more!
DeleteI felt that the book Staying Fat for Sarah Byrnes was interesting with that the title because who would like staying fat for someone also I wanted to read this book because a lot of people told me that they have read it and it was a great book and easy to read also that there may or may not be a good plot twist or a good ending. So, far in the book we are learning about the characters and what Eric family is like and what is going on with Sarah. Erics dad is a dead beat that never showed up after 18 years and is still not around and Erics mom is really fit and is called a fox because of her beauty. Eric does swim and he is swimming the 25 yard and he really wants to make a goal of finishing the 50 yard. so far the book is slow and I am ready to find out more on Sarah.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you about wanting to know more about Sarah. As a person who does not know much about swimming, I find myself way more interested in the mystery of why Sarah is unresponsive to verbal stimuli but is still completing life functions on her own. I am intrigued and want to learn more.
DeleteThe book i chose as my number one was Staying Fat for Sarah Byrnes, the reason i chose this book was because i like swimming and i want to understand why eric is staying fat for sarah byrnes. My initial thoughts on the book made me very interested as i got to learn a little bit about eric and what he has to go through every day as to wonder why his dad left him. I am excited to see where the book will take me as i am curious to figure out how Eric Calhoun pushes through life.
ReplyDeleteI wonder why he wants to stay fat for sarah bbyrnes too.
DeleteThis book intrigues me because it relates to my book Stotan because of the swimming portion. Staying fat for Sarah burns sounds interesting because there has a lot more mystery and questions that make you want to read more to figure them out.
DeleteAt first Chinese Handcuffs was not in my top 3 choices until I was able to read and learn more about it. I was initially interested in this book because it deals with sports, a little bit of romance, and mental health. I am enjoying my choice so far, it has captured my attention by starting off with the main character, Dillion competing in a triathlon and being one of the youngest competitors. I find this book really interesting because the whole first half of the 2nd chapter is Dillion writing a letter to his dead brother, Preston and he talks about life without him and things that he's missed and memories of him. So far, I'm happy with my choice of reading Chinese Handcuffs.
ReplyDeleteThis sounds like a great book and would have been my next opinion to read. I love books that cover sports and mental health, and that book has both of those things in it. Will have to try to read it in my free time.
DeleteI am glad you connect to this book and that it grabbed your attention. Chineese Handcuffs was my first choice and I am sad I did not get it. It seems very interesting and something I wouldve loved to read.
DeleteThis book sounds very interesting, I think it would be one of those books that are hard to put down! I am glad that although it was not in your top three choices initially, you are still interested in reading it and are able to connect with it.
DeleteThe book sounds really good and knowing you, you will enjoy it. It sounds like you will fly through the book.
DeleteI begun to read the book Chinese Handcuffs, and the main reason why I wanted to read this particullur book was because of its adult themes and due to it being a banned book from many boards of education. And though I only read the first few pages, it has me a tiny worried from how the author wrote the book, how he gave the characters names, and some out-of-character momments that stick out like a sore thomb. But overall, I'm quite intrested in this book and ready to read what I has to offer.
ReplyDeletei didnt know it was a banned book.
Deleteit being a banned book makes it so much better and unique to read. You get to read what a lot of other kids are not able to read. My only wonder and thought is why do they have the book banned in the first place.
Deletewhat makes it banned from education
DeleteI also think it makes the book more intriguing to read since it was banned, I did not know it was banned either. That makes me wonder why would they ban the book and what did Chris Crutcher write in the book that made it banned?
DeleteI had no idea that it was a banned book, but a lot of the times books do get banned only because they mention mental health and death, i guess it does make it more interesting with chinese handcuffs not being able to be at libraries only because of mentions of serious issues
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DeleteA few moments do feel a bit odd. Like the part near the beginning where he makes a triangle in his head and "puts his pain inside it to make it tolerable." Just overall weird and doesn't make much sense, at least to me.
DeleteChinese handcuffs sounds very interesting especially due to it being banned is there any reason for it being banned, is there discrimination, racism or any sort of sexual references that make it a banned book?
DeleteIt is a very good book, but it has a lot of sexual references that you see why it is banned, but it is a book that you do not want to spot reading because it is so much that happens.
DeleteRunning Loose was my top choices because the aspect of sports. This book was in my top choices because by the back of the book it sounded interesting. I am happy with this choice because it turns out that the book has a sense of humor in it too. Somethings I think about the book are how the character are pretty vague. This book is keeping me entertained and makes it easy to connect to situations.
ReplyDeleteI like what you said about the book, we both connect on the same book and topic you're talking about. We both connect on how the book affects us in real life, like the friends and topics. I'm happy that another person likes this book the same way I did, it has a lot of weird and goofy says in it, but it's really interesting book.
DeleteI am glad you were able to tie this into your sports and relate. Also how you are making connections to situations and being able to use humor is pretty awesome!
DeleteEnjoying sports really gives you a better background towards the book, you stated that you enjoy the sense of humor in your book. What kind of humor does the book have and why does it make you react that way?
DeleteI like that we can both connect to the book in the same way and have similar interests..
DeleteChinese Handcuffs was my top book that I wanted to read. The back off the book it what mostly got me interested, reading how his father had committed suicide and using any form of physical activity to keep him going. competing in a triathlon is one of the hardest things to do and having this kind of motivation, well I am exited to see how he dose in this mental race.
ReplyDeletethis book sound so good. the amount of drama and suspense in the beginning makes me want to read it. I'm interested in mental heath books and always like hearing the story of hardship and through mental Harding to become the best
DeleteDillon's coping method also caught my attention because competing in an Ironman is no easy task as you mentioned. I'm also very Intrigued to find out what other mental obstacles he may face along the way.
DeleteChinese Hancuffs was also my first pick in what book I wanted to read, it sounded the most interesting when I heard about what the characters go through. I love books that focus on mental health as i able to relate them to my own life.
DeleteThis book was the second book i picked to read it sounded very interesting and caught my eye i would like to know what kind of mental challenges he is forced to overcome
DeleteThis book was my top pick because it had a mystery behind it. Dillion's brother suicide and the other main character Jennifier make this book see two very heartbreaking things that happen in the world we live in.
Deleteits always been weird how people can take the worst experience in their lives and morph it in to the best motivation to get shit done. but on the other hand i know that having that mental strain can leave a big impact in the end.
DeleteI'm reading staying fat for Sarah Byrnes. in the book she mentions that she has to get called Sarah Byrnes and not just Sarah because she got burned by a boiling pot of spaghetti. so far, the book is slow and boring.
ReplyDeleteI did not get to pick a book because I missed the first couple days. I got the honor to read the book Running Loose By: Chris Crutcher. This book is really interesting to me because I am a big fan of football. I love a good sports book where there is some sort of conflict or drama on the game of football, and this is book has that and I can tell that I am going to love it. I am glad that i got this book assigned to me.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you got a book that you can enjoy! I'm sure someone who was more into either basketball or triathlons/marathons would find more enjoyment in Chinese Handcuffs than I am currently.
DeleteStaying Fat for Sarah Brynes was one of my top 3 choices because the example reading log we all saw had said they couldnt put the book down. The back of the book intrigued me too when it said that Sarah was in the hospital and no one knows why. I am happy with my choice so far, I havent made it very far but what Ive read seemed interesting. From what Ive read Erics dad is not in his life and this makes me feel sad for Eric. Im excited to see where this goes and to actually get into the book.
ReplyDeleteI also felt bad for Eric when we found out that his dad had left him and his mom. I found it relatable when his mom told him that she did not judge people for the way that they looked but for who they were. It interesting because his mother does not seem to hold resentment towards the father of her child and the man that left her.
DeleteEric seems like a very unlucky kid, between his dad leaving him, being bullied, and being un healthy and overweight it seems like he has a relatively positive outlook on life and he hasn't let any of those things bring him down.
DeleteI am also very excited to find out what is happening to Sarah!! I am very invested to see why this happened to her, I wonder if it is with her dad. He does not seem like a very nice person. My other thought was if Eric will be able to bring her out of her state or how she will get better?
DeleteThis book was not very enticing to me when first talked about, but I'm glad it's a great read. Not having a father figure like that can definitely mess with the mental health of someone, I'm excited to hear how this story unfolds.
DeleteStaying fat by Sarah Brynes was my second choice, overall, it sounds like you're enjoying it, and that its good I'm glad you are enjoying it!
DeleteRunning loose was my top choice because of the sports theme. I have not yet started the book but based off of the back of the book I think this was the best choice. The back of the book caught my attention because it tells me the main character and how his life was perfect, but it all went up in smoke in such little time.
ReplyDeleteI am glad you could find a book that interested you from the theme of sports. I am also reading Running Loose and will think you will find the book enjoyable as you begin to read!
DeleteMy book is Staying Fat for Sarah Byrnes, this book was my top choice because I was curious as to why Eric is staying fat for Sarah Brynes. Who is Sarah Brynes and why is he doing this for her? The title itself caught my attention. So far, the book has confused me quite a bit. As I am only on page 28, I hope everything comes together and makes more sense. The book has me intrigued and I want to read more. I want to learn more about how Eric struggles in his everyday life and why he keeps choosing to stay fat for Sarah Brynes. I also am ready to learn more about Sarah and see life from her perspective as well.
ReplyDeleteI am also wounding the same thing even though i am not reading that book. The title of this book makes the mind wonder of why someone would stay fat for someone else. I hope the book starts to make sense for you soon.
DeleteI am also reading Staying Fat for Sarah Byrnes and I have many similar questions. It appears that the author likes giving the reader just enough information as possible to get you confused and keep you interested.
Deletewhile reading stotan i found it hard to stay hooked in the beginning because of all they confusion and background info being thrown at me.
DeleteRunning loose was my top choice because, it involves football. Reading the first two chapters of the book had me hooked. I like that all the characters are unique in there own way and it gives you a little back story on all of them. And I feel as if I can relate to all the main characters in a way.
ReplyDeleteI also like the fact that the author didn't just dump the characters backstory on the readers and led into it gradually. I also hope that I can relate to the characters so the book can make my sense to myself. Personally I think you got a little Boomer in you by the way it has started
Deleterunning loose, lucky i wanted that book, i am glad you are enjoying it. who are exactly the main characters? and how do they show themselves in these two chapters?
DeleteMy top choice was Staying Fat for Sarah Byrnes because when I read the back, I heard there was a teenage girl in it so I thought I would be able to make connections and relate to it. I am glad I picked this book so far because it keeps me entertained. I also find this book very interesting on how no one knows why Sarah is in the hospital. So, over all happy I picked this book!
ReplyDeleteI am also wondering why Sarah Byrnes is in the hospital. Seems strange that he author hasn't told the readers yet. Hopefully he tells us soon!
DeleteI also had Staying Fat for Sarah Byrnes as my first choice because of Sarah and that we get to find out on what happened to her and how life will go on after the hospitalization and then why Eric would stay fat for her. Making connections will be easy with the high school background and that Sarah and Eric are teenagers. So, i totally can connect to why you pick this book. I am also existed to see what is to come!
DeleteRunning loose was my top choice, because I love to play football and love to read anything about the sport that I love. I read the back of the book, and it caught my eye soon as I read it, it kind of reminded me of how my friends were on my team. It has a lot of sense of humor and a good passion for what life is really like being a student athlete. I feel like I can relate to the main character, and some of my friends can relate to Boomer. I enjoy this book a lot and can't wait to read more about it. I am hooked.
ReplyDeleteThat's great that you chose that book. I feel like a lot of WD kids can to relate to Chris Crutchers books because it involves many sports and activities. I'm reading Stotan!, and it involves swimming and I enjoy that activity. I can't wait to read more of Stotan, and find out more about the characters and the team.
DeleteI can relate to the book playing football as a kid and with friends. And always wanted to read a good book about football and the team experience because. it is hard at times winning and losing, but it is fun and others could relate and find inspiration form them.
DeleteI decided to read the book Stotan. This book made it into my top 3 because it is about swimming, and I am a big swimmer myself. It also interest me because I have a friend who does swimming for school so I want to learn more about it. I am happy with the book so far because some of the character's in the book I can connect to my own life, and I find that pretty cool. It also has started off pretty smooth, and has been easy to follow along and know what is going on in the book. I find the book enjoyable and think that it is interesting reading about them trying to figure out what Stotan week is.
ReplyDeleteBeing interested in your book and wanting to learn more makes it a lot easier to read and enjoy your book. I am glad that you found a good book for you to read that you enjoy and can relate to.
DeleteI chose Stotan as my number 1 because the swimming aspect interested me because it is a sport that I don't know much about and I am excited to learn more about swimming. The book has been easy to understand so far and that always helps to make to make a book better. I feel the aspect of this being a small group of seniors in high school makes it easier to connect to also.
ReplyDeleteI also agree that the book is very easy to follow and understand. It makes the book better and keeps me wanting to read more. The swimming aspect of the book also interested me since I also dont know much about swimming.
Deletewhen I first started reading this book the first couple pages were confusing to me because there were so many characters introduce within a short amount of time. I think the swimming portion of this book is something that drew me in because I find swimming a interesting sport and would love to learn more.
DeleteI chose the book Running Loose. I chose it because of the football aspect and thought I would be able to relate to it in a good way. I read the first two chapters and and I really think how Chris Crutcher started it because he gives you back story of the main characters and hints at the fact that the main character Louie has done something that has made people upset at him.
ReplyDeleteI agree with this so much, i have not got through the second chapter yet but there is a heavy feeling that Louie is not liked by many especially Boomer.
DeleteI like Chris Cutcher writing style as well, taking moments from the main characters past life and putting them in the story but not giving much background on what exactly happened making you want to read more. I am curious as to what Louie did to make everyone upset with him.
DeleteI chose this book as well on the same aspect of being able to relate to the book i hope we find more about all the characters and what Louie possibly did.
DeleteI am very happy with the book I got, Running Loose. From reading the summary's about the book and the football aspect, i am hoping to be able to connect to the character. from the first few pages i am a little confused what is going on but i am only 9 pages in. all of that aside it seems intergang and am excited to read it.
ReplyDeleteI am a little confused as well. Although your just at the beginning of the book there is a lot going on and the main character has many different friends being mentioned that aren't really given much a background knowledge they are just brought up and are then continued on throughout the story.
DeleteWith the book started I also hope I can connect to the football aspect. I hope the team does really good. I also hope that Boomer and Louie aren't just mad at each other the whole book and their friendship can make them a better team.
DeleteThat is very nice that you can connect well with your book. I hope that you enjoy it and can relate to the characters because of football.
DeleteI am glad you can find a way to relate to this book. I feel that it is a crucial part to be able to connect to the book in some way or another. I hope the book becomes less confusing as you read through it.
Deletei am also a little confuse with the book that i chose. i am hoping that it will explain it mor the farther i get into the book.
DeleteI was also pretty stoked when I found out I got the book Running Loose. I am glad you will be able to make easy connects through the book from the sports you play. Yes the book is confusing me also in the way that the characters are not well explained.
DeleteI connect on a few things you have said like i hope Louie and boomer get along at the end because, the little petty thing Louie did as a kid was just a mistake and can be fixed. Its not his fault for boomers dad to react like that.
DeleteI chose the book Running Loose by Chris Crutcher because I took an interest in this book because i enjoy sports books. I can relate to Louie because being in a sport that means alot to you, while dealing with the pressure to do well and make everyone happy, and dealing with problems in everyday life. I find the book very enjoyable to read as can connect to Louie expernices with his friends and family, and dealing with the aspect of tough pratices.
ReplyDeleteIt is very understandable in the ways you connect to Louie. As a student athlete there are many tasked needed to be attended to. with schooling, practice, and then every day life a lot can be on a persons plate. hope you enjoy the book.
DeleteI am glad you can relate to this book, it is hard to feel a lot of pressure in sports and life in general. I also think it is a great book choice for you since you are involved in swimming and can relate!
DeleteI choose to read the book Staying Fat for Sarah Byrnes. This book was my first choice when I was choosing what book to read. My main reasons for choosing this book were the title and the description of the book that Mrs. Broadbent gave. I was immediately curious of why Sarah was in the hospital. So far while reading this book I am happy with my choice. I have enjoyed learning a bit of Eric's backstory. It is a bit early to make connections but the one that I have made this far was when I was in middle school and the students had talked about starting a school newspaper. It never got anywhere but that is what I was reminded of. I was surprised to see that the title was referenced so early in the book.
ReplyDeleteI agree with the title being mentioned so early in the book. Most times they don't mention the title at all or when they do it isn't until later on, but it was mentioned in like the first 5 pages which was pretty strange.
DeleteStaying Fat for Sarah Byrnes was my second choice, specifically for the title because i was really interested on what it was about and why the book was called that. I do wish to know who Sarah Byrnes is and the issues that are in this book!
DeleteStaying fat for Sarah Brynes seems like an initially good read with an interesting plot. I think it's very cool and different how the author told you why the cover of the book is Staying fat for Sarah Brynes.
DeleteI am also reading this book and I am also really interested in learning what exactly happened to Sarah Byrnes. You are correct when you say that the author really did reference the book title really early on so it makes me wonder if the author may end up referencing the title again in the book.
DeleteSlay.
DeleteI chose Stotan as one of my top three because I thought it would be interesting to read about swimming and the type of effort that goes into the sport. The book started off easy to follow and I like how each of the characters interact and the friendship they all have with each other. I also like how I can easily relate to the characters in the book. I am excited to read into the book and find out what Stotan Week is.
ReplyDeleteIt's great that you chose this book, I can tell it will be a great book for you. I chose the same book for the reasons that it relates a lot to me because I like swimming. The characters are very relatable and I also wonder what Stotan Week will be!
DeleteMy book, Staying Fat For Sarah Byrnes, is also about swimming! I feel that not a lot of people know about the sport of swimming. this book sounds like it could give out boat loads of information about the arts of swimming. once you find out what stotan week is, your gonna have to let me know!
DeleteI also chose stotan and the characters definitely feel a lot more connected with each other than most books.
DeleteFirst of all, I didn`t want to read Stotan!, it was my last pic because I am not really interested in reading a book about a swim team. If I read any sport book it would have to be a book about physical sports. Most of the time the books I read are about war and violence, action packed. But I`ll give this book a chance because it might surprise me.
ReplyDeleteThat is unfortunate that you did not get any of the books you wanted. Hopefully, this book does surprise you and makes you end up wanting to read more and learn some things about swimming.
DeleteI feel like you might like this book, having heard quite a bit from other people its not all that it seems. With other events and surprises in the book it might take you by surprise on what happens.
DeleteI also did not want to read the book that I got. I am reading Staying Fat for Sarah Byrnes and while it is not quite as focused on swimming it is still a large part in the plot. I hope swimming turns out to be much more interesting than I think.
DeleteSo far i haven't thought that Stotan has been all that bad. Hopefully the book turns out to be better than you thought and does end up surprissing you.
DeleteSorry to here you didn't get the book you wanted. I am reading Stotan right now though and it gets better the more you read.
DeleteThat sounds not great but again you cant judge a book by its cover and that this maybe a better book once you get into it I hope! I also picked as my last choice. But i hope it gets better!
DeleteChinese Handcuffs was one of my top three picks because it seemed to have a mix of relatable mental health issues, teen drama, and even some sport charateristics. Those things really stick out to me because I think almost every high schooler can relate to at least one of them. So far I am happy with my book choice, I feel like I am able to relate and connect with Dillion. I love how Dillion uses activity and triatholans to motivate himself and keep him going. I can really connect with that because staying active really helps me as well. overall so far the book is a good read.
ReplyDeleteWe have the same book! I am also enjoying this book. I wonder what kind of struggles we will see Dillion go through throughout the book. I am also curious about his past and what that was like. Do you feel the same?
DeleteYou could have not said it any better. I also chose Chinese Handcuffs because of the idea Dillon uses physical activity to handle his inner struggles and to help keep himself motivated in life. Not only does it sound like you can connect with that, I can speak for myself and being active takes one's mind off of the stuff in the background.
DeleteMy third choice was Staying Fat For Sarah Byrnes. It was my third choice because Stotan and Running Loose sounded more interesting, but so far I am happy that I got Staying Fat For Sarah Byrnes. The book seems interesting already and I am only 19 pages in and that is something that I do not think has ever happened to me in a book before. I can't wait to keep reading!
ReplyDeletelol you go girl
DeleteI started reading Staying Fat for Sarah Byrnes, this was in my top 3 picks because I knew that the book involved self-image problems, and I have always had problems with that, so I knew I could relate. So far, I'm happy with my choice. My first thoughts while starting is that it was going to be weird for me to get used to the main characters name because it's my dad's name. So far I think it's a good read but I'm not that far into the book yet. I think it can be pretty interesting at times I also have made a lot of connections so far.
ReplyDeleteNice, sounds interesting.
DeleteI chose the book Chinese Handcuffs. I felt it related with me in a way of it being a book of feeling isolated and the book so far is confusing, but there are points in the book were I soon to understand what it is trying to get at. The book is very enjoyable to read it feels like a mystery book that has so many questions. The characters are interesting I am only on page 16, and I am getting the back story of the character Preston Hemingway which is the character that is Dillion Hemingway's brother who I believe who kills himself for a reason I need to figure out why.
ReplyDeletethe book sounds really intresting im glad you like it!! i want to know how old they are in the book, and how old Dillion was when he killed himself.??
Deletei thing that is why i also chose this book of because of how it seems like a mystery and how isolated the book is.
Deletesweet
Deletei chose the book STOTAN by Chris Crutcher because i felt it was similar to me in friendship wise and challenges in life wise but the sport its self. i related to the book already and it has only been one chapter, the friend group over coming their anxious thoughts and still driving to become a better version of themselves. it show character and dedication. the coach pushing them to be better i can relate to in my sports as well. getting extra practicing with out coach, i can relate to that as well in soccer. overall the book is great so far and relates to me alot.
ReplyDeleteI also like that the characters are so relatable not just by them being seniors in high school but that there friend group is so close with each other
DeleteI am reading the book Chinese Handcuff. The reasons i wanted this book is because it has to do a little less with sports, also it has information about how the main character deals with depression and anxiety. I like that i will be able to relate this book to things that i have delt with in my own life. So far this book has been enjoyable to read and is interesting. The main character Dillion ran a race that was very difficult for him. When seeing or reading about others doing hard things it is quite motivating to do the same. Also i do find it interesting when Dillion states "please shot me" to the official to the race. I think he does this at that time because he was in so much pain from the long race. This also makes me think about his struggles with mental health.
ReplyDeleteawesome
DeleteI am reading the book Staying Fat for Sarah Byrnes. There is a lot going on with Eric and swimming and his friend Sarah in the hospital. I am interested to see how these two will tie into each other later on the book. Eric has to deal with staying in shape for swimming while staying fat. I do not understand the reasoning behind him staying fat and wonder why he claims he has to stay fat. My guess is that it is comforting to Sarah Byrnes because they both have insecurities and they can relate to each other. Sarah is in the hospital for some reason and will not talk to anybody even when they are right next to her. My guess is that she either tried to kill herself or that something bad has happened that has sent her into shock or something. I am intrigued to find out what happens next.
ReplyDeleteI am also intrigued to read more. I heard from one of the example reading logs that once you get to a certain page you have a hard time putting it down. So I am hoping this will be the case. I like your thought of maybe Sarah did something like almost take her life that made her become this way. I wonder if she will be in this state most of the book or if she will return to the real world and we will find out why this happened.
DeleteI am reading the book Stotan by Chris Crutcher. The reason I decided to choose this book was because it was about a small group of friends that loved to swim. I grew up on the river swimming, so I know the joy that comes out of it. so far, I like this book even though Im not that far into it. At first it was hard for me to understand who was who but, once I got done with the first chapter I understood the characters better. My favorite part of this book so far is how the main character is not the best at swimming but instead his friend Nortie is the better swimmer.
ReplyDeleteI also like the fact that the main character isn't the best athlete and that they say Elaine could still beat all they guys if she still swam
DeleteHonestly I thought the characters were pretty easy to get down right off the bat. The swimming aspect of the book is also what kind of drew me in because I enjoy swimming a lot.
DeleteI hoped that I can figure out on who is who, but relooking at the book really helps out. For Elaine, I like how she is better than the boys.
DeleteOne of my top 3 books I wanted was Stotan! by Chris Crutcher, because it has a lot of athlete aspects to the book. So far, I am 20 pages in and there's not much information about the characters yet. The main characters are Walker, Nortie, Lion, and Jeff who are a small friend group involved in a swimming team. The athletic aspects I relate to are swimming. I grew up involved in many water activities whether it's going to the waterpark, swimming in rivers and oceans, and even spending time in my own backyard pool. I was never in any school swimming team, but I always enjoyed living life in the water.
ReplyDeleteI was not as drawn in by this book because i dont know how to swim, but im sure by the names i would be at least a little interested in it because i watch those olympic swim teams and they are insane to watch
DeleteI am reading Staying Fat For Sarah Byrnes. I chose this book because the title has a questionable statement that is worth finding out why. The story about how a boy who swims and tries to stay reasonably overweight for this girl puzzles me and persuades me to find out more. like why would anyone want to try to get overweight for someone else? Wouldn't it be the other way around? so far I think the book is off to an interesting start. I found the bully (Dale), to be quite a unique character, as he is way older than the rest of his classmates. besides the characters and the unknowing question that the book has not answered, I am enjoying this book!
ReplyDeleteThat was my second choice i think, the title was pretty weird so i was interested on what it might be about, and also how is that dude staying overweight while swimming how much is he eating for that unless he doesn't swim often, i hope you find the answer.
DeleteI find the title staying fat very intriguing because why would anyone want to do that. Staying fat for a girl doesn't seem right to me I wonder if he is hiding something from her.
DeleteMy first choice was Chinese Handcuffs because i thought that this would be the best book for me to read because it does involve mental health issues, considering i have had my struggles with mental health as well. The main character Dillon Hemmingway is an athlete struggling with mental health issues after his brother's death, i really do find this book interesting because the whole first half of the 2nd chapter is Dillon writing a letter to his brother, Preston who passed away by taking his own life and is saying what life is without him and things that he's misses since Preston isn't here with him. I'm enjoying this book so far and hopefully I will enjoy it more reading it down the road
ReplyDeleteChinese handcuff was also my first choice , I also chose this book for it's focus on metal health. So far in the book the author is doing great on putting great detail that helps us see and understand the characters mindset and mental state.
DeleteThe book i received was Chinese Handcuffs and the reason it drew me compared to the other books, that being that it was less based on sports and on a more serious topic like mental health, i relate to that because i can struggle with mental health a lot at times. I don't really like to read all too well but this book has actually been able to keep me pretty drawn in due to its writing. I am still pretty early into the book but i am so excited to learn more about Dillon and how he deals with his brothers passing.
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DeleteChinese handcuffs is really good with its style of writing and its good description of the characters background, I like how the book jumps back and forth between Dillons letters to his brother and the events that take place in the , almost like foreshadowing. Its helps keep me interested since I also don't like reading much.
DeleteThe book that I got was Stotan. I am enjoying this book so far because I can relate to the characters by them being seniors in high school and they also like sports. So far into the book they are introducing the characters and talking about how good everyone is at swimming and they also bring up the coffee shop where they talk at everyday before there school day starts.
ReplyDeletehaving said about the coffee shop brought back some memories back when we lived not a mile away from a place in Dubuque that sold the best donuts. Every morning we would go and walk to the shop and get one to fuel our day. reading this blog just brought back some child hood memories.
DeleteI can say that I could relate to the character for being a senior in high school and like a sport, there still some differences between us and the characters in the book, we like to what we real like and that what I think we can relate to.
DeleteStaying fat for Sarah Byrnes was my second after Chinese handcuffs. The book is alright So for I am only page 11, and not much has happened other then introducing to the charters. And a lot of talk about a chick who doesn't say anything. I respect the loyalty of Eric for staying fat for this girl that would be an interesting relationship to be in.
ReplyDeleteThe Book I'm reading is Chinese Handcuffs I chose this book because the title of the book had me wondering why it was named Chinese handcuffs and how it ties into the story. The book is about a 16 year old boy named Dillion who is finding ways on how to cope and distract his mind away from his brother's suicide through sports but outside of practice his world seems to be crumbling. I feel empathy towards dillion and relate to him because i also know the feeling on not knowing how do deal with your thoughts when some close to you commits suicide and from what I've read so far Dillion seems to be writing letters to his dead brother to help improve his writing but also help he comes to terms with his grief. what I am excited to learn more about is why dillion says how he might have to do with something on why his brother committed but so far i have great background knowledge on the main character..
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ReplyDeleteI agree that first chapters is a lot of information coming at the reader. I am also curious how the brother will be might be changed in the story.
DeleteThe book I am reading is STOTAN. I don't like swimming but because the book is about kids in high school, I thought it would be interesting to read. I haven't read much but there are some friends who are on the swim team together and they decide to spend a week together at the beginning of school vacation accepting the challenge of STOTAN Week. They don't know what that is yet. I am wondering what STOTAN Week is about.
ReplyDeleteThe book I am reading is Chinese Handcuffs. One of the main reasons I chose this book is because, Dillon; the main character has chose a very interesting coping method to handle his brother's suicide. From my understanding Dillon will begin training to take part in an Ironman triathlon. Not only would that be an impressive task to complete but also, I am led to believe this is the only thing keeping him motivated in life. So far I am very pleased with my book choice, not only because it is humorous at times, but also because of the deeper side of the story.
ReplyDeleteI also find this coping method to be very interesting as I have never seen a character cope like this in any other story. Though I do wonder why he chose a triathlon of all things.
DeleteThe book I am reading is Running Loose. The reason I chose this book is because it is about sports. Running Loose was my second0 choice after Chinese Handcuffs. The reason why it was my second choose is because my number one book i wanted to read sounded better.
ReplyDeleteThe book that i am reading, chinese handcuffs the reason that i chose this book is because it about a teen that ended up losing his brother to suicide and how losing his brother changed the way that lives. It ended up challenging dillon to train for a triathlon in order to take his mind of of everything that has happened.
ReplyDeleteI'm honetly really excited for this partticullar book explores this touch of reality, as long as it's a good book, thats the reall diffining factor.
DeleteI agree, I am very interested as to how the author will make the characters emotions leap off the page.
DeleteI chose Chinese Handcuffs both because it had the most interesting story premise and because I wanted to be able to at least discuss the book with a friend, if not share the same group. Overall, the book has been mediocre at best, with nothing in particular to hate or love. It's well written, but lacks impact to its story beats due to them being placed much too early in the book. Big, hard-hitting moments like the cat scene and Jen's basketball game have no purpose if we don't feel attachment to the characters involved. The scenes themselves are executed well, just poorly positioned in the book.
ReplyDeleteDon't forget about the wacky names like "Renee Halfmoon and Jennifer Lawless"
DeleteI believe the author put those big moments at the beginning so we can get to know the characters better and give us intrigue.
DeleteI chose Running Loose because interested in the sport football. The plot takes place in a small town called Trout, Idaho. Louie is the main character and is a part of the 8-man football team at his school. Louie wants to be a starter this year and is working out every day with his friend Carter to try to achieve this. I'm about 60 pages into the book and so far, I'm enjoying it quite well. I'm excited to see if he gets a starting spot on the roster.
ReplyDeleteI have heard a lot of talk about this book it sounds very interesting. This book was my second pick so I am not reading it, but I would love to read it later on.
Deletethis book sounds very interesting, it was my number 3. hope to read this book inn the future
Deletethe book i chose is Stotan and i chose this book because it deals with sports and physical endurance. The book is interesting building up to the event, Stotan, but it is a bit slow paced for me. I feel the pain of the guys waiting in anticipation of how grueling the week will be.
ReplyDeleteWow interesting!!!!!!!!! That was my second pick good thing I didn't pick it otherwise I would've been bored out of my mind. I never had the anticipations of how grueling a week will be but I bet you definitely had.
DeleteFrom,
Johnsay ;)
i also think the pain will make it more difficult for them during the week
DeleteI am reading running loose. It was my first choice because it was about football, and i love football. I am enjoying the book so much so far, it is great. I love how the characters remind me of my friends and almost every page I can relate to someone or something in the book. I love how the character are actually funny and I am actually enjoying a book for once in a long time.
ReplyDeleteI like how the book reminds you of your friends. This book was also my number one pick because off sports. I relate to how you feel about this book because this book reminds me of our football team. and friends.
DeleteI am reading the book Stotan. I chose this book because it deals with hardships through sports and intrigued me with the name being a mixture of stoic and spartan. I am enjoying the book's characters and how they all interact with each other. The stotan week that has been forshadowed keeps me reading as i want to find out more about it.
ReplyDeleteI am so glad to hear that you have found a great book to read. I am also reading the book Stotan!. And I have made some of the same connections that you have.
DeleteChinese handcuff was on my top 3 because suicide is a close topic for me and I just wanted to see other views on the same issue. and I am pretty happy with the book as of right now it is engaging and relatable. at first the book was confusing because i don't read prologs and was clueless on who was talking to who. but then some more fun activates happened but over all i can say this book has me in for some more pages
ReplyDeleteI had the same feeling when starting my book (Chinese handcuff) but i am sorry u didn't get this book. I will share if u want.
ReplyDeleteI am reading Staying Fat For Sarah Byrnes, this book was one off my three top choices because it deals with much deeper topics like terrible parenting, self confidence issues, and being treated like an outcast. I am so far happy with my choice as the book has kept me interested with its many mysteries and with its colorful characters. My initial thoughts on the book is that the book likes to focus less on the aspect of sports and schooling and more on the memories of the main character whilst telling readers what lead up to the point in time of the beginning of the book. I am finding the book very enjoyable and interesting but have yet to make any connections.
ReplyDeleteI must say I also enjoy the lack of focus on the sport, and the greater focus on the character and their relationships.
DeleteI am reading Running loose by Chris Cutcher This book was my top choice I picked this book as my top choice because I love sports and it is very relatable. This book also shows the challenges athletes face with social life, family and sports. This book has kept me interested starting off in a small town and I love small town football because that is what western Dubuque is like. The characters are very interesting, and they all have some sort of problems at home each character has there own different problems making each one relatable.
ReplyDeleteI am reading Staying Fat for Sarah Byrnes by Chris Crutcher. This was my top pick because I loved the fact it has that story of two goofy friends and how their relationship works and it also could be something people can relate to. It isn't something to take lightly, it isn't hesitant to show the dark parts of how a teen's life work, which is something people aren't common to and that the fact I like.
ReplyDeleteI am reading Chinese handcuffs. This was not my first choice however after reading the first couple pages I am starting to like it. One of the reasons I was drawn to this book was because it was banned in schools.
ReplyDeleteI am reading the book Stotan. I did not choose this book because I missed the first few days and everyone had starting reading already but I'm glad I got the book I got. So far I'm really interested in all of the characters because they all have their own thing that sets them apart from each other. One thing I really like about the book is that it doesn't have chapters, it has dates instead. I like this because I feel like it gives a better visual when you know what time of the year it is.
ReplyDeleteThe fact that it uses dates instead of chapters sounds really interesting , hopefully the author utilizes this to tell about passages of time. Kinda makes me want to read it.
DeleteI am reading running loose this was my first choices After reading for a bit the book is actually really good as it starts off to a hot starts with some action with i really like because it keep you wanted to read more one of the reasons i was drawn to this books is because I like football.
ReplyDeleteI am reading Chinese Handcuffs, the reason I choose this book is because it seemed like kind of a mystery and that there would be a lot of secrets being uncovered and like pieces falling into place. I am very happy with my choice though it is a little more violent than I thought it was going to be.
ReplyDeleteAt first Chinese Handcuffs was not in my top 3 choices until I was able to read and learn more about it on my own time. If I could go back and rank these again it would be my first choice. I was initially interested in this book because it deals with sports, a little bit of romance, and mental health. I am enjoying my choice so far, it has captured my attention by starting off with the main character, Dillion competing in a triathlon and being one of the youngest competitors. I find this book really interesting because the whole first half of the first chapter is Dillion writing a letter to his dead brother, Preston. Dillon gives us a little backstory of Preston and we the readers find out he was in a motorcycle accident where he unfortunately lost his legs and is now in a wheelchair. I'm glad I've been able to connect to this book by it involving sports, I relate to Dillon not wanting to participate in sports and high school but wanting to compete in a triathlon. I related to that because I don't like doing sports at school, but I enjoy participating in 5k's and marathons outside of school. So far, I'm happy with my choice of reading Chinese Handcuffs and cannot wait to find out more about Dillon and Preston.
ReplyDeletei am reading stotan, it was my first book on the list. It really sounded interesting and a book that would want me to keep reading. the book started out a little dry but after reading more im really `starting to like it.
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ReplyDeleteI was personally not here for the actual book choosing day so I did not get to actually choose my book, but I must say I was satisficed with what I got since it was my 3rd choice, and the reason for it being my 3rd was that it didn't sound like it talked too much about suicide, I have more interest in swimming rather than football and it seemed more focused on the lives of the characters rather than the sport. I would say that I am happy with my choice so far mainly since they start off with writing an underground newspaper making fun of someone instead of detailing someone swimming.
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