In Hollow City by Ransom Riggs, Emma Bloom is one of the main characters. She is a peculiar child with the ability to manipulate fire.
Emma was introduced in the first book in the series, Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children. When I first "met" her, I thought she was rude and evasive. Every time Jacob (one of the other main characters) tried to talk to her, she would run away before he could get to her. Emma would also speak bluntly and abruptly to Jacob. She seemed wild, contumelious, and impudent.
However, I have come to realize that Emma is none of those things. She is actually a very caring leader that looks out for others. The literal fire within her causes her to be bold and passionate. She helps her friends to stay out of danger; she keeps her friends from getting hurt. She is a strong pillar in the group.
The reason Emma came off as being a bit cold in the beginning was because she was suspicious that Jacob was a Wight (an enemy to the children). She did not want him to discover her friends or their home. She was trying to protect them.
After the group of peculiar children stayed with some Gypsies they met along their journey, Emma talked to the leader of the Gypsies. She said, "But at the risk of seeming rude, we can't possibly stay with you any longer" (Riggs, 136).
This demonstrates Emma's character because she's displaying her gratitude. It also helps to show how she is a motivated leader. The children just finished dinner with the Gypsies, and now she is already talking about moving on and continuing their journey to London to save their headmaster. Emma thinks not about how others can motivate her, but how she can motivate others.
If you would like to learn more about Emma, here is a link to a Wiki devoted to Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children with information about Emma:
http://thepeculiarchildren.wikia.com/wiki/Emma_Bloom
Sunday, May 18, 2014
Post #7: The best thing about my book is…
I'm currently reading Hollow City by Ransom Riggs. The best thing about my book is the suspense and unexpected plot twists.
The main characters in the book are all children that have peculiar traits, talents, and abilities. After their home was bombed, people tried to hunt the children down because of their peculiarity. After nearly getting kidnapped by their enemies, the children had to escape from their home on an island and paddle for more than 6 hours to safety. There were several storms at sea. Multiple times, their boats almost flipped. Then, once they reached the shore, they were almost discovered by their enemies.
After meeting some peculiar animals that could talk, the children were given directions to navigate the island they had landed on. On a path headed toward a train station, they came across a group of Gypsies. The children secretly hopped onto the back of their covered wagons so they would arrive at their destination quicker. However, after the Gypsies stopped to put up camp, they discovered the children. The Gypsies put the children in a cage and were going to hold them there until they figured out what to do with the children.
But, once again, things didn't stay that simple. The children's enemies stopped by the Gypsies' camp after hearing reports of children walking on a trail earlier in the day. They demanded to search the Gypsy camp to see if the children were there. Upon the enemies' arrival, the leader of the Gypsies said, "Hide yourselves under the hay and don't make a sound!" (Riggs, 131). This was another twist in the plot because just moments before, the Gypsies were threatening the children, and now they were trying to protect them!
Just from the few plot events I described, you can see that there is a lot of action in my book. Something new is always happening, and there are many unexpected twists and turns. If you like suspense and action, I recommend that you check this book out!
Also, here is a link to a list of books that are also said to have a lot of action:
http://www.goodreads.com/shelf/show/action-adventure
The main characters in the book are all children that have peculiar traits, talents, and abilities. After their home was bombed, people tried to hunt the children down because of their peculiarity. After nearly getting kidnapped by their enemies, the children had to escape from their home on an island and paddle for more than 6 hours to safety. There were several storms at sea. Multiple times, their boats almost flipped. Then, once they reached the shore, they were almost discovered by their enemies.
After meeting some peculiar animals that could talk, the children were given directions to navigate the island they had landed on. On a path headed toward a train station, they came across a group of Gypsies. The children secretly hopped onto the back of their covered wagons so they would arrive at their destination quicker. However, after the Gypsies stopped to put up camp, they discovered the children. The Gypsies put the children in a cage and were going to hold them there until they figured out what to do with the children.
But, once again, things didn't stay that simple. The children's enemies stopped by the Gypsies' camp after hearing reports of children walking on a trail earlier in the day. They demanded to search the Gypsy camp to see if the children were there. Upon the enemies' arrival, the leader of the Gypsies said, "Hide yourselves under the hay and don't make a sound!" (Riggs, 131). This was another twist in the plot because just moments before, the Gypsies were threatening the children, and now they were trying to protect them!
Just from the few plot events I described, you can see that there is a lot of action in my book. Something new is always happening, and there are many unexpected twists and turns. If you like suspense and action, I recommend that you check this book out!
Also, here is a link to a list of books that are also said to have a lot of action:
http://www.goodreads.com/shelf/show/action-adventure
Sunday, May 4, 2014
Post #6: A Moment that Epitomizes a Character
In Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children, by Ransom Riggs, Emma Bloom is one of the main characters. She is a "peculiar" child with the "peculiar" power to create fire with her hands.
Along with the ability to manipulate fire, Emma has other defining personality traits that help her stand out. She is known as the protector of her fellow "peculiar" friends. She always tries to stay level-headed to make a plan that will get them out of tough situations. Emma is very passionate and is a very strong leader. She is known to persevere in the face of adversity and she pushes all of her "peculiar" friends to do the same.
One example of her willingness to keep pushing through tough times is found on page 107. People were trying to hunt her and her friends down, and things were looking very bleak. Emma went off to the side to have a moment to herself. She felt like there was no way her friends would ever get through the tribulation they were facing. She began to cry and feel sorry for herself. However, after a few moments, she recollected herself and went back to her friends. After they asked her what was wrong, she said, "Yes, yes... had something caught in my eye, was all. Now, everyone gather your things. We must go to London at once, and see about making Miss Peregrine whole again!" (Riggs, 107).
Although Emma felt hopeless, she realized she couldn't just give up. She had to keep trying to save her and her friends' lives. She pushed on and encouraged her friends to do the same. This is one moment that epitomizes Emma's personality.
Along with the ability to manipulate fire, Emma has other defining personality traits that help her stand out. She is known as the protector of her fellow "peculiar" friends. She always tries to stay level-headed to make a plan that will get them out of tough situations. Emma is very passionate and is a very strong leader. She is known to persevere in the face of adversity and she pushes all of her "peculiar" friends to do the same.
One example of her willingness to keep pushing through tough times is found on page 107. People were trying to hunt her and her friends down, and things were looking very bleak. Emma went off to the side to have a moment to herself. She felt like there was no way her friends would ever get through the tribulation they were facing. She began to cry and feel sorry for herself. However, after a few moments, she recollected herself and went back to her friends. After they asked her what was wrong, she said, "Yes, yes... had something caught in my eye, was all. Now, everyone gather your things. We must go to London at once, and see about making Miss Peregrine whole again!" (Riggs, 107).
Although Emma felt hopeless, she realized she couldn't just give up. She had to keep trying to save her and her friends' lives. She pushed on and encouraged her friends to do the same. This is one moment that epitomizes Emma's personality.
Sunday, April 27, 2014
Post #5: Vocabulary
meager (52)
waterlogged (52)
wisp (52)
menagerie (54) - 1. a collection of wild or unusual animals, especially for exhibition. 2. a place where they are kept or exhibited. 3. an unusual and varied group of people.
springy (55)
nestled (55)
twinge (56)
forsaken (56)
imperceptible (56) - 1. very slight, gradual, or subtle: the imperceptible slope of the road. 2. not perceptible; not perceived by or affecting the senses.
labyrinth (57)
congealed (57) - 1. to change from a soft or fluid state to a rigid or solid state, as by cooling or freezing: The fat congealed on the top of the soup. 2. to curdle; coagulate, as a fluid. 3. to make or become fixed, as ideas, sentiments, or principles: Some philosophic systems lost their vitality and congealed.
sullen (57)
gelatinous (57) - having the nature of or resembling jelly, especially in consistency; jellylike.
quivering (66)
churning (66)
faltering (66)
coalesce (66) - 1. to grow together or into one body: The two lakes coalesced into one. 2. to unite so as to form one mass, community, etc.: The various groups coalesced into a crowd. 3. to blend or come together: Their ideas coalesced into one theory.
taut (66)
guffaw (68)
inauspicious (68) - not auspicious; boding ill; ill-omened; unfavorable.
writhing (72)
acrid (72) - 1. sharp or biting to the taste or smell; bitterly pungent; irritating to the eyes, nose, etc.: acrid smoke from burning rubber. 2. extremely or sharply stinging or bitter; exceedingly caustic: acrid remarks.
sputter
(79)
jowly
(81)
illustrious (81) - 1. highly
distinguished; renowned; famous: an illustrious leader. 2. glorious, as deeds
or works: many illustrious achievements.
prowess (82) - 1. exceptional
valor, bravery, or ability, especially in combat or battle. 2. exceptional or
superior ability, skill, or strength: his prowess as a public speaker. 3. a
valiant or daring deed.
Here
is the link to Thesaurus.com if you would like to look up synonyms for the words
above: http://thesaurus.com/
I hope you found this list helpful! I challenge you to use some of these words in our upcoming writing units.
Monday, April 14, 2014
Post #4: Krista Ramsey Columnist Assignment
I chose to read Krista Ramsey's column titled "Still reflecting on act of vandalism on Opening Day". In the column, Ramsey described how a man and his son stood in flowerbeds that lined the sidewalks in order to get a better view of the Red's Opening Day Parade. This act disturbed Ramsey because the people who stomped on the flowers had no regard for the money and effort it took for local businesses to plant the flowers there.
Here is a link to the article:
http://www.cincinnati.com/story/opinion/columnists/krista-ramsey/2014/04/12/krista-ramsey-vandalism/7659161/
I thought the following lines were two of the best lines written in the column. "Which is where I saw the purple and gold mass of stomped, smashed pansies that surrounded us. It was such a botanical massacre that I immediately looked for the cause." The words 'stomped' and 'smashed' have negative connotations that indicate that the crushing of an object was done intentionally and inconsiderately. These words really help readers to see Ramsey's astonishment at the thoughtlessness of the man and his son who killed the flowers. Ramsey used juxtaposition when she said 'botanical massacre'. The word botanical has a very positive connotation that makes people think of beauty, peace, and tranquility. In contrast, the word massacre usually makes people think of bloodshed, violence, and war. These stark opposites convey the magnitude of the injustice the two people committed in Ramsey's eyes.
Ramsey's writing style is very descriptive throughout this article and the two articles we read in class.
One example of how she was descriptive in the article I chose was when she said, "I was so completely enveloped by taller people that I was stuck catching glimpses of marching bands and floats, and after straining my neck for a full half-hour, finally surrendered and let my gaze drift to the sidewalk." This gave a thorough description of the events leading up to when Ramsey witnessed the flower-smashing.
An example of Ramsey's descriptive style in "For better vision, kids need time outdoors" was when Ramsey said, "Your teenager at the dinner table, waiting for his checkup at the orthodontist's office, sauntering to his car - continually hunched over his smartphone or iPad." Here, Ramsey painted a picture of a typical teenager and their heavy use of electronic devices.
In "Super Bowl QBs score points for great style", Ramsey said, "A pretty dress, well-tailored sports coat, stylish hat elevate the mood and maybe even the conduct." Ramsey provided specific details about each article of clothing to create an image in the readers' minds.
Three questions I would ask Ramsey if given the chance are:
1.) How do you get inspiration for your articles? Is it ever hard to think of something to write about?
2.) How would you describe your writing style? Do you aim for it to be a certain way?
3.) What lead you to your current job?
Here is a link to the article:
http://www.cincinnati.com/story/opinion/columnists/krista-ramsey/2014/04/12/krista-ramsey-vandalism/7659161/
I thought the following lines were two of the best lines written in the column. "Which is where I saw the purple and gold mass of stomped, smashed pansies that surrounded us. It was such a botanical massacre that I immediately looked for the cause." The words 'stomped' and 'smashed' have negative connotations that indicate that the crushing of an object was done intentionally and inconsiderately. These words really help readers to see Ramsey's astonishment at the thoughtlessness of the man and his son who killed the flowers. Ramsey used juxtaposition when she said 'botanical massacre'. The word botanical has a very positive connotation that makes people think of beauty, peace, and tranquility. In contrast, the word massacre usually makes people think of bloodshed, violence, and war. These stark opposites convey the magnitude of the injustice the two people committed in Ramsey's eyes.
Ramsey's writing style is very descriptive throughout this article and the two articles we read in class.
One example of how she was descriptive in the article I chose was when she said, "I was so completely enveloped by taller people that I was stuck catching glimpses of marching bands and floats, and after straining my neck for a full half-hour, finally surrendered and let my gaze drift to the sidewalk." This gave a thorough description of the events leading up to when Ramsey witnessed the flower-smashing.
An example of Ramsey's descriptive style in "For better vision, kids need time outdoors" was when Ramsey said, "Your teenager at the dinner table, waiting for his checkup at the orthodontist's office, sauntering to his car - continually hunched over his smartphone or iPad." Here, Ramsey painted a picture of a typical teenager and their heavy use of electronic devices.
In "Super Bowl QBs score points for great style", Ramsey said, "A pretty dress, well-tailored sports coat, stylish hat elevate the mood and maybe even the conduct." Ramsey provided specific details about each article of clothing to create an image in the readers' minds.
Three questions I would ask Ramsey if given the chance are:
1.) How do you get inspiration for your articles? Is it ever hard to think of something to write about?
2.) How would you describe your writing style? Do you aim for it to be a certain way?
3.) What lead you to your current job?
Saturday, April 12, 2014
Post #3: About the Author
I am about to begin reading Hollow City by Ransom Riggs. This is the second book in the Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children series.
I decided to conduct a little research on the author, Ransom Riggs. Here is what I learned:
Ransom Riggs not only writes books, but also makes short films and book trailers. He was born on a 200-year-old farm in Maryland and then moved to Florida when he was little. In Riggs' biography on his website, he described Florida as a place with "lots and lots of old people and not very much for kids to do." Because he was often bored, he had to make up his own stories and his own fun. He also made videos with his friends in his backyard.
To develop his writing skills, Riggs attended the University of Virginia’s Young Writer's Workshop for three summers during high school. He attended Kenyon College to study English, and then went to film school at the University of Southern California.
Here is a link to his bio page:
http://www.ransomriggs.com/bio/
Here is an interview with Riggs about Hollow City:
I decided to conduct a little research on the author, Ransom Riggs. Here is what I learned:
Ransom Riggs not only writes books, but also makes short films and book trailers. He was born on a 200-year-old farm in Maryland and then moved to Florida when he was little. In Riggs' biography on his website, he described Florida as a place with "lots and lots of old people and not very much for kids to do." Because he was often bored, he had to make up his own stories and his own fun. He also made videos with his friends in his backyard.
To develop his writing skills, Riggs attended the University of Virginia’s Young Writer's Workshop for three summers during high school. He attended Kenyon College to study English, and then went to film school at the University of Southern California.
Here is a link to his bio page:
http://www.ransomriggs.com/bio/
Here is an interview with Riggs about Hollow City:
Saturday, April 5, 2014
Post #2: Dear Veronica Roth...
Dear Ms. Roth, April 4, 2014
I'm writing this letter in regards to your book, Allegiant. I am a fan of the whole Divergent series and want to congratulate you on how successful your books have been. I really liked Allegiant and felt that it was crafted extremely well. There were multiple themes throughout the book that were really important life lessons.
Although I wish things could've ended differently with Tris, what you chose to do with her character enabled you to send an important message to readers. You told us on page 526, "Life damages us, everyone. We can't escape the damage. But now, I am also learning this: We can be mended. We mend each other."
At times, it seems as though we've been pushed down too hard to get up. But through Tobias' grief and the support of his friends, you reminded readers that life will go on. Everyone falls down, but through the help of loved ones and those around you, you can go on. Things will get better.
This was something that really hit home with me because one week ago today, I lost my cat to cancer. She was a part of the family and it often feels empty in the house without her. But today, after reading the ending of Allegiant, I was reminded that eventually things will get better and life will go on.
I also appreciated the way you showed the political changes in the city through the physical features of the city. When there were still factions, each section of the city looked different. In one section there were gray buildings with people wearing gray. In another, people wore red and music danced among the treetops. Also, the city was very run-down. The lake turned into a marsh and there were many abandoned buildings.
However, as changes occurred politically, changes occurred physically. People began mixing the colors they wore. New people moved into city buildings and restored them. On page 512, it said, "Some of the former Bureau scientists are trying to restore the river and the lake to their former glory, but it will be a while. Change, like healing, takes time."
Thank you for writing such a wonderful series and for teaching your readers so much.
Sincerely,
Tori Berry
I'm writing this letter in regards to your book, Allegiant. I am a fan of the whole Divergent series and want to congratulate you on how successful your books have been. I really liked Allegiant and felt that it was crafted extremely well. There were multiple themes throughout the book that were really important life lessons.
Although I wish things could've ended differently with Tris, what you chose to do with her character enabled you to send an important message to readers. You told us on page 526, "Life damages us, everyone. We can't escape the damage. But now, I am also learning this: We can be mended. We mend each other."
At times, it seems as though we've been pushed down too hard to get up. But through Tobias' grief and the support of his friends, you reminded readers that life will go on. Everyone falls down, but through the help of loved ones and those around you, you can go on. Things will get better.
This was something that really hit home with me because one week ago today, I lost my cat to cancer. She was a part of the family and it often feels empty in the house without her. But today, after reading the ending of Allegiant, I was reminded that eventually things will get better and life will go on.
I also appreciated the way you showed the political changes in the city through the physical features of the city. When there were still factions, each section of the city looked different. In one section there were gray buildings with people wearing gray. In another, people wore red and music danced among the treetops. Also, the city was very run-down. The lake turned into a marsh and there were many abandoned buildings.
However, as changes occurred politically, changes occurred physically. People began mixing the colors they wore. New people moved into city buildings and restored them. On page 512, it said, "Some of the former Bureau scientists are trying to restore the river and the lake to their former glory, but it will be a while. Change, like healing, takes time."
Thank you for writing such a wonderful series and for teaching your readers so much.
Sincerely,
Tori Berry
Monday, March 24, 2014
Post #1 (New Trimester): The Line Between Right and Wrong
In Allegiant, Veronica Roth suggests that sometimes, actions that are wrong can be justified if they contribute to the greater good.
*WARNING: THE NEXT PART CONTAINS SPOILERS*
Tris, Four, and several other people escaped their city and ventured into the unknown to find a place called the "Bureau". Upon arrival, they learned that the people in the Bureau had been watching and controlling their society. The Bureau considered them just to be an experiment.
The group of survivors also learned that soon, the Bureau planned to reset the memories of everyone in their society in order to keep it from imploding. This caused Tris and Four to be deeply upset. They didn't think that everyone in their old society should have to lose their memories just because a few corrupt leaders made poor choices.
As Tris and Four tried to decide what was right and what was wrong, someone said to Four, "'The Bureau's whole reason for resetting our friends and families is to stop them from killing each other. If we stop the reset, the Allegiant will attack Evelyn, Evelyn will turn the death serum loose, and a lot of people will die,'" (Roth, 402). This caused them to think about the situation and what they should do. On one hand, they could let the Bureau reset everyone's memories and save lives, or, they could stop the Bureau and let the people keep their memories, but many people would die.
As they continued to figure out what they wanted to do, Four said to Tris, "It's not a perfect situation. But when you have to choose between two bad options, you pick the one that saves the people you love and believe in most," (Roth, 388).
Through these lines spoken by Four, we can clearly see how Veronica Roth feels about right and wrong. Although something may not be completely "right", if it contributes to the greater good and saves the people you love, it's okay.
Do you agree with the author? What are your opinions about when something is right and when something is wrong?
*WARNING: THE NEXT PART CONTAINS SPOILERS*
Tris, Four, and several other people escaped their city and ventured into the unknown to find a place called the "Bureau". Upon arrival, they learned that the people in the Bureau had been watching and controlling their society. The Bureau considered them just to be an experiment.
The group of survivors also learned that soon, the Bureau planned to reset the memories of everyone in their society in order to keep it from imploding. This caused Tris and Four to be deeply upset. They didn't think that everyone in their old society should have to lose their memories just because a few corrupt leaders made poor choices.
As Tris and Four tried to decide what was right and what was wrong, someone said to Four, "'The Bureau's whole reason for resetting our friends and families is to stop them from killing each other. If we stop the reset, the Allegiant will attack Evelyn, Evelyn will turn the death serum loose, and a lot of people will die,'" (Roth, 402). This caused them to think about the situation and what they should do. On one hand, they could let the Bureau reset everyone's memories and save lives, or, they could stop the Bureau and let the people keep their memories, but many people would die.
As they continued to figure out what they wanted to do, Four said to Tris, "It's not a perfect situation. But when you have to choose between two bad options, you pick the one that saves the people you love and believe in most," (Roth, 388).
Through these lines spoken by Four, we can clearly see how Veronica Roth feels about right and wrong. Although something may not be completely "right", if it contributes to the greater good and saves the people you love, it's okay.
Do you agree with the author? What are your opinions about when something is right and when something is wrong?
Saturday, February 15, 2014
Post #9: Most Important Line from Chapter 15 of Allegiant
On page 124 of Allegiant, there was one paragraph that really affected the chapter:
"They called for genetically damaged individuals to come forward so that the Bureau could alter their genes. The Bureau then placed them in secure environments to settle in for the long haul, equipped with basic version of the serums to help them control their society. They would wait for the passage of time- for the generations to pass, for each one to produce more genetically healed humans. Or, as you currently know them... the Divergent."
This information is really important because it is the first time the characters find out what it means to be Divergent. They find out that they're not bad, evil, or dangerous, as the Divergent were previously thought to be. In fact, they find out that they are healed from a genetic defect. This means that the Divergent are actually more harmless than most of the people around them because they don't have behavioral issues.
Secondly, after the characters find out that they were all just part of an experiment, they begin to question everything about their lives. One example of this was on page 136 when Tris said, "What if my parents' God, their whole belief system, is just something concocted by a bunch of scientists to keep us under control? And not just their beliefs about God and whatever else is out there, but about right and wrong, about selflessness?" Tris is very confused about her identity, and she doesn't know what to believe anymore.
Can you imagine if one day, you found out that everything that ever happened in your life was just part of an experiment? How would you react?
"They called for genetically damaged individuals to come forward so that the Bureau could alter their genes. The Bureau then placed them in secure environments to settle in for the long haul, equipped with basic version of the serums to help them control their society. They would wait for the passage of time- for the generations to pass, for each one to produce more genetically healed humans. Or, as you currently know them... the Divergent."
This information is really important because it is the first time the characters find out what it means to be Divergent. They find out that they're not bad, evil, or dangerous, as the Divergent were previously thought to be. In fact, they find out that they are healed from a genetic defect. This means that the Divergent are actually more harmless than most of the people around them because they don't have behavioral issues.
Secondly, after the characters find out that they were all just part of an experiment, they begin to question everything about their lives. One example of this was on page 136 when Tris said, "What if my parents' God, their whole belief system, is just something concocted by a bunch of scientists to keep us under control? And not just their beliefs about God and whatever else is out there, but about right and wrong, about selflessness?" Tris is very confused about her identity, and she doesn't know what to believe anymore.
Can you imagine if one day, you found out that everything that ever happened in your life was just part of an experiment? How would you react?
Monday, February 10, 2014
Post #8: Insurgent Book Review
Insurgent is the second book in the Divergent series by Veronica Roth. I would give it 5 out of 5 stars. Although many sequels never measure up to the first book, this is not the case with Insurgent. It keeps you on the edge of your seat with every chapter.
Although I'm not a huge fan of dystopian books because I find them to be depressing at times, I think Veronica Roth did a great job crafting Insurgent. While there were sad parts (i.e. fighting between factions, beloved characters getting hurt, etc.), Roth also managed to work in lighthearted parts with Tris and Fours' relationship and experiences in the orchards of the Amity compound. Insurgent is an all-around great read that many readers will enjoy.
Insurgent picks up right when the factions are left in a state of chaos at the end of Divergent. From there, the surviving members of Abnegation join up with Four, Tris, and some of the members of Dauntless. I will refer to them as the "good people". The "good people" travel to the Amity compound to take refuge from the ruthless Erudite. At the same time, other members of Dauntless become traitors and side with the Erudite. Throughout the book, the "good people" move through the war-torn city and even meet the Factionless. They fight the Erudite and try to stay alive. In the end, a rebellion breaks out against the Erudite, but I can't tell you any more because it will give to much away.
Veronica Roth writes from Tris' perspective in the book. Tris is a teenage girl who has been through a lot and has had to kill many enemies. The book is very fast-paced, and it has lots of action.
I would recommend Insurgent to anyone who enjoys dystopian novels such as The Hunger Games, and to people who like books with lots of action. Also, the book is not gender-specific, even though it's told from a girl's perspective. Boys and girls alike would enjoy Insurgent.
Remember, Divergent comes out in theaters this year, so you might want to read the books before then!
Although I'm not a huge fan of dystopian books because I find them to be depressing at times, I think Veronica Roth did a great job crafting Insurgent. While there were sad parts (i.e. fighting between factions, beloved characters getting hurt, etc.), Roth also managed to work in lighthearted parts with Tris and Fours' relationship and experiences in the orchards of the Amity compound. Insurgent is an all-around great read that many readers will enjoy.
Insurgent picks up right when the factions are left in a state of chaos at the end of Divergent. From there, the surviving members of Abnegation join up with Four, Tris, and some of the members of Dauntless. I will refer to them as the "good people". The "good people" travel to the Amity compound to take refuge from the ruthless Erudite. At the same time, other members of Dauntless become traitors and side with the Erudite. Throughout the book, the "good people" move through the war-torn city and even meet the Factionless. They fight the Erudite and try to stay alive. In the end, a rebellion breaks out against the Erudite, but I can't tell you any more because it will give to much away.
Veronica Roth writes from Tris' perspective in the book. Tris is a teenage girl who has been through a lot and has had to kill many enemies. The book is very fast-paced, and it has lots of action.
I would recommend Insurgent to anyone who enjoys dystopian novels such as The Hunger Games, and to people who like books with lots of action. Also, the book is not gender-specific, even though it's told from a girl's perspective. Boys and girls alike would enjoy Insurgent.
Remember, Divergent comes out in theaters this year, so you might want to read the books before then!
Saturday, February 1, 2014
Post #7: A Conversation with Tris
The following conversation is composed of questions I would ask Tris in Insurgent, and the responses I imagine she would give me.
Me: Do you regret your choice to become a member of the Dauntless faction?
Tris: While I do regret abandoning my family in Abnegation, I don't regret joining Dauntless. It has taught me how to defend myself and those around me, and it has helped me to combine the selfless actions of Abnegation with the courageous actions of Dauntless.
Me: Do you think the factions will go back to normal if the conflict ever settles?
Tris: Honestly, I don't know. I don't think life will ever be normal again. I have no idea how we would function without factions, though. I can't imagine how that would work.
Me: Do you think Jeanine has a motive for wanting to kill so many people, or is she just doing it because she can?
Tris: Jeanine wants power. She's evil and we can't let her take over.
Me: Do you think Jeanine's going to kill all the Divergent?
Tris: I don't know. I think she wants to keep us alive for awhile so she can figure out how to create better simulation serums that we won't be able to overcome. But, she'll probably kill us once she figures that out. We're the most dangerous to her because we have the capability to overpower her, and that scares her.
Me: I know things between you and Four have been a little bit rocky lately. Do you think it's just because of everything that's going on right now, or do you think you might break up?
Tris: I think it's mainly because of everything that's going on right now. We really wouldn't be having any problems if it weren't for the situation we're in. But, I don't know. We'll see what happens.
Me: I'm really sorry about that. I'm sorry for the loss of your parents, too. Are you seeking revenge on Jeanine for all of this?
Tris: I'm not really seeking revenge on her as much as I'm trying to stop her from hurting more people. Sure, I'm mad at her, but I won't be able to stop anything by fueling this fire with more fire.
Me: It's good that you realize that. I know people are in good hands with you. Well, Tris, thank you for giving me some of your precious time. I hope things get better for you.
Tris: Thanks. I better get going before anyone else gets killed.
Me: Do you regret your choice to become a member of the Dauntless faction?
Tris: While I do regret abandoning my family in Abnegation, I don't regret joining Dauntless. It has taught me how to defend myself and those around me, and it has helped me to combine the selfless actions of Abnegation with the courageous actions of Dauntless.
Me: Do you think the factions will go back to normal if the conflict ever settles?
Tris: Honestly, I don't know. I don't think life will ever be normal again. I have no idea how we would function without factions, though. I can't imagine how that would work.
Me: Do you think Jeanine has a motive for wanting to kill so many people, or is she just doing it because she can?
Tris: Jeanine wants power. She's evil and we can't let her take over.
Me: Do you think Jeanine's going to kill all the Divergent?
Tris: I don't know. I think she wants to keep us alive for awhile so she can figure out how to create better simulation serums that we won't be able to overcome. But, she'll probably kill us once she figures that out. We're the most dangerous to her because we have the capability to overpower her, and that scares her.
Me: I know things between you and Four have been a little bit rocky lately. Do you think it's just because of everything that's going on right now, or do you think you might break up?
Tris: I think it's mainly because of everything that's going on right now. We really wouldn't be having any problems if it weren't for the situation we're in. But, I don't know. We'll see what happens.
Me: I'm really sorry about that. I'm sorry for the loss of your parents, too. Are you seeking revenge on Jeanine for all of this?
Tris: I'm not really seeking revenge on her as much as I'm trying to stop her from hurting more people. Sure, I'm mad at her, but I won't be able to stop anything by fueling this fire with more fire.
Me: It's good that you realize that. I know people are in good hands with you. Well, Tris, thank you for giving me some of your precious time. I hope things get better for you.
Tris: Thanks. I better get going before anyone else gets killed.
Sunday, January 26, 2014
Post #6: What point is Veronica Roth trying to make through writing Insurgent?
As the main characters move from faction to faction throughout the Divergent series, Veronica Roth shows readers that although everyone is different, there is always something to learn from one another.
Tris is one of the main characters in the series. She grew up in Abnegation, a faction dedicated to selflessness. She transferred to the Dauntless faction, a faction committed to bravery and fearlessness. When an attack was launched on the Abnegation faction and the city was left in chaos, Tris took refuge at the Amity compound. The Amity are peaceful, kind, forgiving, and self-sufficient people. The Erudite faction, the ones who lead the attack on Abnegation, tries to be knowledgeable and intelligent.
On page 269, Tris says, "Sometimes I feel like I am collecting the lessons each faction has to teach me, and storing them in my mind like a guidebook for moving through the world. There is always something to learn, always something that is important to understand." In this quote, I think Tris captures the importance of learning from one another. In her society, people are not encouraged to learn from one another. They are supposed to live with the faction they most agree with for their whole lives, and not have any interaction with the other factions. Eventually, the factions break out into war against one another.
I think this shows the importance of learning from one another, even if you don't always agree with them. If you're only exposed to people with the same opinions as you for your whole life, when you actually do come in contact with someone who has different views than you, you won't know how to react to them. I think that's part of why the factions are at war with one another in the book.
Veronica Roth wants readers to realize that they need to be exposed to different types of people and learn from them so that fighting doesn't occur when disagreements happen.
Tris is one of the main characters in the series. She grew up in Abnegation, a faction dedicated to selflessness. She transferred to the Dauntless faction, a faction committed to bravery and fearlessness. When an attack was launched on the Abnegation faction and the city was left in chaos, Tris took refuge at the Amity compound. The Amity are peaceful, kind, forgiving, and self-sufficient people. The Erudite faction, the ones who lead the attack on Abnegation, tries to be knowledgeable and intelligent.
On page 269, Tris says, "Sometimes I feel like I am collecting the lessons each faction has to teach me, and storing them in my mind like a guidebook for moving through the world. There is always something to learn, always something that is important to understand." In this quote, I think Tris captures the importance of learning from one another. In her society, people are not encouraged to learn from one another. They are supposed to live with the faction they most agree with for their whole lives, and not have any interaction with the other factions. Eventually, the factions break out into war against one another.
I think this shows the importance of learning from one another, even if you don't always agree with them. If you're only exposed to people with the same opinions as you for your whole life, when you actually do come in contact with someone who has different views than you, you won't know how to react to them. I think that's part of why the factions are at war with one another in the book.
Veronica Roth wants readers to realize that they need to be exposed to different types of people and learn from them so that fighting doesn't occur when disagreements happen.
Tuesday, January 21, 2014
Post #5: Connections to Insurgent
Text-To-Text:
In Insurgent, Tris Prior is a lot
like Katniss Everdeen from The Hunger Games. They are both main characters in
their books, and they both have to fight against a corrupt government. They have love lives that are stretched to the limit due to the fighting and
conflict within each book. Their personalities are also very similar because
they’re both willing to risk their own lives to save the lives of others. They
both have a strong will to persevere when faced with opposition.
Text-To-Self:
If I were to choose a faction to
live in, I would probably choose Abnegation, but Amity would be my second choice.
I would choose Abnegation first because I admire their selflessness and love of
peace. They seem like very kind people, and I think I would feel at home in
that faction. Amity would be my second choice because the people there seem
like very fun-loving, creative, peaceful people. They love color and happiness
and the outdoors. But most of all, I like that they respect and care for one
another.
Text-To-World:
Throughout both Divergent and Insurgent, the “Factionless”
are mentioned. To me, they are the equivalent of homeless people in our world.
The Factionless are exactly what their title says; without a faction. They are
without a faction because they either didn’t choose one or failed initiation. They roam the streets and have little food except for what the
members of the Abnegation faction bring them. They don’t have very clean or
desirable living conditions.Wednesday, January 15, 2014
Post #4: Insurgent (WARNING: SPOILERS FROM DIVERGENT!!!)
I finished Divergent by Veronica Roth over winter break, and let me just say, it was a spectacular book! It was full of suspense, friendship, and romance- but it wasn't overly sappy. Now, I'm reading the next book in the series, Insurgent, by Veronica Roth.
I'm only on page 38, so the setting could drastically change by the end of the book. Right now, the attack against the Abnegation has stopped, but the factions are in a state of complete chaos and disorganization. Four, Tris, and several other Dauntless and Abnegation members have fled to the Amity compound- the only faction still in tact.
The group feels rather strange in their new surroundings. The people of Abnegation don't indulge themselves with lavish foods, colorful clothing, or fun activities. The people of Dauntless are not quite as strict, but they're known to be very tough. These two lifestyles are completely contrary to the lifestyle of the people of the Amity faction. They love music, color, friendship, and are known for their success in agriculture.
As the disheveled group arrives at the compound, they are shocked at what they see. Orchards and greenhouses cover the grounds. People are friendly towards one another and they love peace.
The Amity always try to reach a state of mutual consensus when making big decisions by working together and making compromises. These living conditions are very different from the other factions.
Here's a passage with some great imagery that describes an orchard the group travels through upon arrival. "Before we can reach them, we have to walk through an orchard. My feet sink into the ground, and above me, the branches grow into one another, forming a kind of tunnel. Dark fruit hangs among the leaves, ready to drop. The sharp, sweet smell of rotting apples mixes with the scent of wet earth..." (Roth 4).
I'm curious to see what places the rest of the book will lead the characters to!
I'm only on page 38, so the setting could drastically change by the end of the book. Right now, the attack against the Abnegation has stopped, but the factions are in a state of complete chaos and disorganization. Four, Tris, and several other Dauntless and Abnegation members have fled to the Amity compound- the only faction still in tact.
The group feels rather strange in their new surroundings. The people of Abnegation don't indulge themselves with lavish foods, colorful clothing, or fun activities. The people of Dauntless are not quite as strict, but they're known to be very tough. These two lifestyles are completely contrary to the lifestyle of the people of the Amity faction. They love music, color, friendship, and are known for their success in agriculture.
As the disheveled group arrives at the compound, they are shocked at what they see. Orchards and greenhouses cover the grounds. People are friendly towards one another and they love peace.
The Amity always try to reach a state of mutual consensus when making big decisions by working together and making compromises. These living conditions are very different from the other factions.
Here's a passage with some great imagery that describes an orchard the group travels through upon arrival. "Before we can reach them, we have to walk through an orchard. My feet sink into the ground, and above me, the branches grow into one another, forming a kind of tunnel. Dark fruit hangs among the leaves, ready to drop. The sharp, sweet smell of rotting apples mixes with the scent of wet earth..." (Roth 4).
I'm curious to see what places the rest of the book will lead the characters to!
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