The three books that you are reading this summer -- and enjoying, we hope -- are quite different.
Dear Irene by Jan Burke is a modern-day mystery novel set in Southern California. Irene Kelly presents the readers with the "trials and tribulations" of her life and work as a newspaper reporter as she tackles one particularly interesting case. When Irene and Thanatos become pen pals, readers learn a lot of Greek mythology along with Irene, which is most beneficial for freshmen who will spend most of the year with mythology. Let me be very clear about one issue: We do not condone Irene's lifestyle or her language -- neither would be appropriate for a Villa student; however, the information that we acquire so easily in this story makes it worth our while.
The Flames of Rome by Paul Maier takes readers into ancient Rome during the times of Emperors Claudius and Nero. Based in historical fact, this story is quite surprising for the situations and behaviors in which the imperial family members and their friends indulge. Please do not be shocked by the novel; rather, blame history for what you are reading and double check the details by looking at the historical notes at the back of the book.
Waiting for Odysseus by Clemence McLaren immerses the reader in the ancient world of the Trojan War. The love story of Penelope and Odysseus is world renown and McLaren brings to life the extraordinary women in Odysseus' life. This novel has it all: love and romance, adventure, uncertainty, danger, and wisdom.
When we gather in the fall to begin our ninth-grade English work, we will be discussing and writing about each novel. Any margin notes or underlining that you want to add to your text of Dear Irene, Flames of Rome, and/or Waiting for Odysseus will help you when we begin our discussions. These novels also become part of our curriculum during the year as we study mythology, the Trojan War, and Roman literature. The notes you take while you read will help you throughout the school year.
ADVICE: If you find yourself grumbling about summer reading, remember that you are a student at Villa Duchesne, a challenging, college-preparatory school. You are preparing for college work even during the summer before your first year in high school.
You are preparing for your future through a wide range of reading selections.
You are going to be a great student!
