Dear Students,
As you think about the books you read, you will continue to write informal letters addressed to me and your friends, and we will write back to you commenting on your ideas and observations. Our letters will become a record of the thinking, learning, and reading done together.
Letters should be at least one page long and written as a critical written response to one book. This is a long look at a book that “wows” you. Before you write a letter about this book, look back over your reading record. Which completed title would be most enjoyable to revisit as a fan? Once you have decided, return to the book and skim it.
Then think about how you would write a letter about this book. I want to know you as a reader and critical thinker. First, I want an engaging hook and brief plot summary. Next, I want to know about your experience as a reader of the book. Walk me through with your emotions (likes, dislikes, surprises, frustrations, questions); tell me scenes/characters that elicited a personal reaction...something you have to share with me...something the author did that was amazing!!! (This may encompass several paragraphs; be sure to give specific examples from the text!) Be sure to include a quote from the text that supports one of your ideas.
Mostly I want you to extend your thinking to analysis. What techniques/style did the author use that wowed you? How did this literature connect to your life, or the world, or another piece of literature? What was the message the author made you think about?
I don’t expect you to answer every question. What I do expect is for you to digest the book, and write to me (or another classmate when appropriate) about your ideas, feelings, experiences, and questions.
Lastly, I want you to rate the book. Please follow with an explanation as to why you gave the book that score. Who is the intended audience?
As you write your letter, remember to use the author’s name, underline the title, and capitalize it correctly. Use the friendly letter format. This should include the date, a greeting (Dear Mr. Hagerty), and a closing (Sincerely, Your student, etc.) all correctly placed.