Setting You Up

How the author introduces the reader to the setting in a book is often overlooked, but it is one of the most important ways to draw the reader into a story. If the setting is not believable or integral to the story, the reader often loses interest or does not relate to the character as well. How does the author in the book you are currently reading introduce and describe the setting? Is it explained to you in detail from the character's perspective, gleaned from the character's observations or actions, presented to you by a narrator, or something completely different? Remember the setting includes not only the place, time, and surroundings, but also the emotional climate as well. Be specific and include your book title.

Making the Connection

Your reading is closely connected to your writing. The more you read, the better your understanding of how to write. When students write compositions in my classes, I often have them write a TPAPT or a RAFT for each piece prior to writing. The TPAPT is an acronym for a basic roadmap to writing consisting of: Topic, Purpose, Audience, Point of View, and Tone. RAFT is the same thing, just a different acronym (Role, Audience, Format, Topic). Connect this concept to your reading by doing a TPAPT or RAFT for the book you are currently reading (if you are far enough into it), or for the last book you have completed if you are not far enough into your current book. Be sure to include your book's title and author.

Good Catch . . . or . . . Catch and Release?

With the recent passing of author J.D. Salinger, I am reminded of the mixed reaction that his book The Catcher in the Rye has had with many of my students. It seems that anyone that has read that book either REALLY loved it or REALLY didn't. It is interesting to me how some books can bring such different reactions to their readers. I know we usually talk about books that you like, but let's switch things up a bit and talk about a book you really didn't like for some reason. Make sure you include why you think you didn't like it so much. Be truthful, but fair.