Yes! Finally! At last! Literature Circles is completely over! After those long, everlasting five weeks, it's entirely finished! It's not like I didn't enjoy the experience, of course I did! But you know, life is much easier without it! However, to be clear, I must say that this Literature Circles activity was interesting and fun! Since I love to discuss and be an active part of a conversation, the task was not too difficult. Although, I still adore the fact that it is all over. Sorry! Anyway, I guess I'd better get on task, and actually reflect based on our questions given!
1. Did you like the book? Why/Why not?
Truthfully, I really loved "Julie of the Wolves". I liked it mostly because the story line and genre was different from the books I'd normally read, and it didn't bore me. If I were to choose a book out of the library, I certainly would have not even thought of the possibility of reading this book. I normally best read books, if they interest me, and if I'm reading because I want to . So of course, I pick books that I enjoy and are used to. I don't try new types of books, I stay in closed with the ones familiar. So I'm happy for trying this book out. I've done Literature Circles before, and almost every single book I read bored me to death! Because of this, it was extremely hard to concentrate, and try my best, due to the fact that I absolutely hated the book! It is different with Julie of the Wolves though. Yes it is a different genre, but, I truly like it. It doesn't bore me; it interests me. I was very hooked on the book and that luckily, made the tasks much easier for me! I did not like Julie of the Wolves; I LOVED it!
2. What was your favorite part?
Frankly, I don't really have a favorite part, you know? It's just too hard to choose! But if I really had to pick one, I guess it would be the part when Julie/Miyax first lays eyes on the wolves. As in, when she is just beginning to observe them. I like this part particularly because it involves some exceptionally adorable animals, and because of the descriptions and topic. The author's use of vocabulary and amazing content really made me visualize the scene in my head. It felt almost real, and I could picture it clearly. That advanced my understanding and made me enjoy the book! And the topic of this certain part just pulls my attention right towards it. I mean, the topic is something I find absorbing to read about. I loved learning about the wolves, their habits, and language. They seemed almost real; as if I could see and feel them myself! I find this a talented skill for writers to possess.
3. What do you think the message of the story was?
I think the message of this story was, to appreciate your culture and it's values as well as to have pride in where you originally come from. I feel this is the message since in the end, Julie/Miyax realizes the great wonders of the traditional Eskimo lifestyle, and begins to appreciate it and live it. She then takes great pride in being an Eskimo, and she completely transforms into that traditional Eskimo girl she noticed she was born to be! I also think the message could be, learn from each day and with every great journey develop. I think this because Julie/Miyax was on her voyage to reach her dream destination-San Fransisco. But really, her journey was a quest for self-discovery. And I must say that Julie/Miyax really developed both mentally and physically. I guess this is what we should all do with every new day. Learn from our mistakes, and celebrate our successes. Truly, the story could have many different messages. It just depends on how you look at it.
4. How did you like the Literature Circles assignment? What suggestions would you make to improve it?
In my opinion, the Literature Circles assignment was fairly difficult yet doable. In fact, the assignment was quite easy, but time consuming, and you really needed to give it a lot of thought in order to meet expectations. For this assignment, you definitely needed patience, time, and a good understanding of the book. So, I'd say that this Literature Circles wasn't very easy, but not too hard either. I know it might sound confusing, but I don't really have a side; I'm more on the fence about it. To improve this task... Truthfully, there is nothing needed to be improved. At least in my opinion. I mean, it's easy; you just need the time, effort, and comprehension in order to succeed!
5. After talking with your classmates, which of the novels that you did not read, would you like to read next?
After conversing with others outside my group, I'd probably choose to read The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle. Did I spell that right? I hope I did! Anyway, it sounds rather gripping, and compelling. From my faint understanding of the book, I know that this is a mystery book. (Correct me if I'm wrong!) I've literally never tried the mystery genre, but many people say they enjoy that genre so I'd like to try it out! Plus, the plot sounds unique and well written and many have said they liked the book so maybe I will too! I don't know, but I'll try something new. The book sounds exciting and well I want to see for myself! So I guess I'd pick The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle for a second read! (It was my second choice on my list anyway!)
