September Issue

2023

We are delighted to present the first issue of our monthly library newsletter for the school year 2023-2024, and it's filled with exciting updates and opportunities!

This edition includes:

A glimpse into our new Middle School Vice Principal, Ms. Mollie Williams where she shares her views on literature and some effective ways to inspire and engage the younger generation into reading.
Get to know some of our new secondary teachers and students through their favorite book recommendations.
Check out the library new arrivals and suggest New Books for purchase.
Explore the various clubs available in our library this year.
Lately in the Library photos

I'm also excited to introduce two fantastic students who will be joining our library newsletter team this year - Hannah Lee and Janika Ramirez. They will be bringing their passion for books, creativity, and fresh ideas to our publication.

JANIKA RAMIREZ - janika.r_gaa@gaa-ad.com

Hi!! My name is Janika Ramirez, and I'm a senior. This is my 5th year at GAA.

I helped in the Library Newsletter last year and am willing to help out again! I enjoy contributing to the GAA community, and am looking forward to the events I'll be documenting!

HANNAH LEE - hannah.l2_gaa@gaa-ad.com

Hello! My name is Hannah Lee, and I am a junior student from South Korea. I joined GAA this April.

This year, I am excited to be a part of the secondary library newsletter team. I feel grateful for this valuable opportunity to express my passion for literature and contribute to the GAA community. I am eager to give my best effort to fulfill my role and make a positive impact!

As always, our library is a place where curiosity thrives, imaginations soar, and connections are made. We look forward to another year of learning, reading, and growing together.

Stay tuned for more updates, book reviews, and exciting library events in the coming months. We encourage you to reach out to us with your suggestions, ideas, or questions. Together, we can make this school year a literary adventure like no other!

Happy reading!

Ms. Anna, Secondary School Librarian

A Warm Welcome from Ms. Anna

By Janika Ramirez, Grade 12

Ms. Anna Parente is the GAA's Secondary School Librarian and this year is her 5th year at GAA. She has been working as a Librarian since 2005.

Ms. Anna's role extends beyond managing the library; she plays a pivotal part in promoting literacy, honing research skills, and nurturing a reading culture among our students. She is also a valuable resource for students working on their best possible performance in their classes. Ms. Anna is available to offer guidance on proper citation formats, providing access to diverse information sources, teach effective source utilization, evaluate source reliability, and promoting academic integrity.

This academic year brings exciting opportunities for our students with the introduction of the Study Club, Reading Ambassador's Club, and Book Club. We are also in the process of organizing the Board Game Club, catering to both middle and high school students. The library space will be made available for these clubs to foster engagement and learning.

In terms of upcoming events, we are pleased to announce official book fairs scheduled for November, with additional fair tentatively planned for March offering a wide selection of literary treasures for our students.

Furthermore, the Reading Ambassador's Club will collaborate on reading-related activities to further advance literacy within our school community. The library will actively participate in various reading competitions, both international and local. Additionally, we have a poetry performance program in February, featuring poetry experts from the U.S. March will be celebrated as Reading Month, featuring book character costumes and engaging reading related activities.

To stay updated on all library-related news and events, please follow us on our website and Instagram.

The library also created a dedicated Library Google Classroom for students per each grade level where they can access valuable library resources and updates.

We are excited about the upcoming year and look forward to fostering a love for reading and learning among our students!

Meet Ms. Mollie Williams: Our Middle School's Dynamic New Vice Principal, Bringing Experience and Enthusiasm to GAA!

By Hannah Lee, Grade 11

In this September’s edition of the secondary library newsletter, we have the pleasure of introducing you to Ms. Mollie Williams, the new Middle School Vice Principal at GAA (Grades 6-8). With a wealth of experience and a deep passion for education, Ms. Williams is a valuable addition to our school community. Let’s delve into her background and hear her thoughts on her role and the world of literature.

A Career Rooted in Education

Ms. Mollie's journey in education began over 16 years ago when she embarked on her career as a fifth-grade teacher in Texas. Throughout her career, she has taught a variety of subjects at various grade levels. Her dedication to education is underscored by her academic accomplishments, which include an undergraduate degree in Political Science, a Masters in Curriculum, Assessment, and Instruction, and this past summer, she received her CAGS in Educational Leadership.

A Globetrotting Educator

Ms. Mollie's teaching career has taken her on a globe-trotting adventure. She has worked in educational institutions in Texas, Boston, Al Ain, and Abu Dhabi, accumulating diverse experiences in both the United States and the UAE. She holds a special connection to the UAE, as it feels like her second home. She first arrived here in 1988 and graduated from a school in UAE in 1996 before pursuing her studies in the United States.

Insights from Ms. Mollie’s Interview

During our interview with Ms. Mollie Williams, we gained valuable insights into her teaching journey and her thoughts on GAA and literature.

Could you share your teaching experience?

Ms. Mollie: "Certainly, I've dedicated 13 years to teaching in various locations, including Texas, Boston, Al Ain, and Abu Dhabi, both in the US and UAE."

What does literature mean to you?

Ms. Mollie: "For me, it's all about a good book. I didn't enjoy reading until I found the right book in high school, The Catcher in the Rye, a novel by J. D. Salinger. Since then, I've been in many book clubs. However, as a working mom of 2, I don't always have time to read, but I still love it."

How would you compare literature when you were in high school to literature nowadays?

Ms. Mollie: "That's a really good question. I think that there are a lot more opportunities for kids to read, especially when it comes to graphic novels these days. I think maybe, if there were graphic novels when I was younger, I would probably be reading sooner just because I'm a visual person, and I like to be able to look at pictures. So I think there is a big difference with graphic novels."

As an educator, what are some effective ways to inspire and engage the younger generation, like the middle school students of GAA, considering the advancement of technology nowadays and changing interests and tastes in books?

Ms. Williams: "Our kids like to look at things. When I walk through the middle school lounge, they're all looking at videos on their laptops. They are fast and rapid adapters to modern technology, capable of utilizing technology both in learning and entertainment. They're attracted to visual content.

For example, my nephew games while listening to audiobooks. I think that is a really cool thing, so he’s visually doing something, but he’s also listening, so I think there's a lot of opportunity to read and at the same time entertain, more nowadays compared to older times. So, combining visual elements with literature is a promising way to engage them."

What book would you recommend to our HS Book Club members in GAA?

Ms. Mollie: "I'd love some time to think about it, but one book I truly enjoyed is 'The Book Thief' by Markus Zusak."

With Ms. Mollie Williams at the helm of the Middle School, we can look forward to an exciting and enriching academic year at GAA. Her love for literature and dedication to education make her a valuable addition to our school community. Her love for literature and dedication to education will undoubtedly contribute to our students' growth and development. We eagerly anticipate her contributions to our students' growth and development.

Welcome to our new Secondary Teachers and students! Get to know some of them through their favorite books! Who knows, you might discover a new favorite book of your own!

Ms. Liz Anderson

The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

Mr. Julius Kieran

What is the Name of this Book: The Riddle of Dracula and Other Logical Puzzles by Raymond Smullyan

Mr. Kevin Connaughton

Geography by Holt McDougal

Ms. Kimberly Yanucil

East of Eden by John Steinbeck

Ms. Sajneet Sandhu

Jungle Nama by Amitav Ghosh

My favorite book is a narrative poem by Indian author Amitav Ghosh. It is called Jungle Nama.

It is an adaptation of a legend from the Sundarbans, the world’s largest mangrove forest. For the people who live in and around the forest, the story of Bon Bibi, the benevolent spirit of the forest, is a charter that regulates every aspect of their lives. Their beliefs associated with her dictate how they relate to the forest. I love the writing of Amitav Ghosh because of his ability to weave an imaginative, lyrical and dramatic.

The central ideas of the narrative are limiting greed and those of preserving a balance between the need of humans and those of other beings. These are essential values for this era of planetary crisis.

Ms. Claudia Freany

Breakfast at Tiffany's by Truman Capote

It was a student who actually made me fall in love with this book. She had selected it for her Extended Essay, which meant I needed to read the book to help guide her as her supervisor. I had read Truman Capote’s other book, In Cold Blood, in high school and loved it, as the story took place in my own home state of Kansas. As soon as I read Breakfast at Tiffany’s, I fell in love with the character of Holly Golightly – an eccentric, intelligent young woman trying to find her voice in the crazy, huge metropolis of New York City. To this day, it’s one book I always go back to, finding a new reason to love it each and every time!

Ms. Almyra Duarte

The Power of NOW by Eckhart Tolle

"The Power of Now" by Eckhart Tolle is a fantastic book that helps you appreciate the importance of living in the present moment. Tolle's writing is straightforward and relatable, making it easy for anyone to grasp the concept of mindfulness.

This book is like a friendly guide to finding inner peace. It's not a heavy read filled with jargon; instead, it's like having a casual chat with a wise friend. Tolle's humor adds a light touch to the profound message he shares.

Reading "The Power of Now" feels like taking a deep breath of fresh air. It reminds you to let go of worries about the past and future, and simply enjoy the now. It's a bit like learning to savor a single, perfect bite of your favorite dessert.

In a world that often feels rushed and chaotic, this book offers a refreshing perspective on life. It encourages you to pause, take a step back, and find peace in the simplicity of being present. So, if you're looking for a practical guide to living a more fulfilling life, this book is a delightful choice. Give it a read and discover the power of the present moment.

Ms. Sally Dawoud

The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz

This book is quite an easy read and has such a simple concept about how we can be better people and live in harmony with everyone.

The four main agreements are:

‘Be Impeccable with your word,

‘Don’t make assumptions,’

‘Don’t take anything personally,’ and

‘Always try your best.

Although they are such simple concepts they are very difficult to apply day to day. I can assure you that, whether you notice or not, you are making assumptions about other people and probably being upset when they act or react a certain way. This book really gives you a different perspective into how you can understand someone else’s perspective and be able to empathize and sympathize with anyone. I really recommend you give this book a read. I hope you enjoy it just as much as I have.

Mr. Dorian Gibb

Art & Sole by Intercity

My friends and I used to collect ‘kicks’ (sneakers) and I’ve always enjoyed art and design. This book combines both and showcases some great creative talent.

Additional Suggestions:

The Hitch Hikers Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams

This was one of the first books that really made me laugh out loud. I love how it pokes fun at some of the more absurd behaviors and actions of humans but does so in a sympathetic and kind way.

The Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle

I think it was this book that first inspired my creative nature. I remember trying to mimic the textures, shapes and colours at an early age and have since enjoyed this with my own children.

Waiting for Godot by Samuel Becket

This was the play I performed for my GCSE theatre studies a few years ago. A great book by a master author but noted here because it opened the world of reading plays as well as novels. I’m still not quite at reading poetry level yet.

Zen and the art of motorcycle maintenance by Robert M. Pirsig

This is me nagging myself. I’ve been told to read this by many friends and have even tried twice. Failing both times. Ian Gray…

I suppose I should say my names sake book, The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde… but I wont.

Ms. Sandra Dirksen

The Good Earth by Pear S. Buck

Hannah Lee (Grade 11)

The Stranger by Albert Camus

Jadelyn Mapumulo (Grade 10)

The Forbidden Sea by Sheila A. Nielson

Description

The forbidden sea is about a girl named Adrianne.She has a nightmare about a mermaid drowning her and her sister and holding them captured. After this dream occurred her sister had a bruise around her wrist. She comes face to face with this mermaid whom she's heard terrible stories about. Convinced the mermaid is here to take her sister,she becomes courageous and protects her sister but the mermaid continues to haunt Adrianne in her dreams and with her song.

My recommendation

This is one of my favorite books. Its not the type of books i would normally read because i'm not a huge fan of mermaids but the main character Adrianne just draws viewers in.The characters are engaging and there's so much mystery.I love the traditional dark concept of mermaids and its very well written too.It can be dark for sensitive viewers.This book draws readers in emotionally by making us feel sympathy towards the character.You cant help but love the main character and how she would do anything to protect her sister and how she shows a sense of courage throughout the book.Its so enticing and the whole concept is just brilliant.It can be boring and confusing in the first few chapters as all they talk about is the characters life and how she got to the point she is in her life but the more you continue to read it the better it gets.I HIGHLY recommend it for readers 12 and above who love reading dark fantasy books.

Tanisha Asfaque (Grade 9)

Nancy Drew Diaries: Once Upon a Thriller by Carolyn Keene

I feel this book is really interesting to read, it starts with a fire in a bookstore takes place, where a teenage girl tries to find out who is the criminal. I feel like I am really in the story. It is a mysterious novel.

Sara Ahmed (Grade 11)

Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? by Philip K. Dick

Do Android Dream Of Electric Sheep? is a dystopian fictional novel, if you are a fan of mystery and alternate realities, this book would suit you perfectly. Admittedly, I had to read the book as a cause of school, and despite that, I have thoroughly enjoyed the experience. I find it to be quite realistic to what we do and will find in the world. The book explores basic ideas and concepts that we see today, creating a new universe we could not have imagined ourselves. Philip K. Dick, the author of this book explores a universe where artificial intelligence is indistinguishable from reality. A world where true animals and false have blurred lines, likewise with humans. I would recommend this book to youth who have an interest in technology and the possible future of the world.

New Arrivals in the Library

New Books SY23-24

Your Voice Matters! Suggest New Books for Our Library! Calling all students, teachers, and parents! We value your input, and we want our library collection to reflect your interests. Feel free to suggest books you'd like to see on our shelves. Your recommendations will help us curate a diverse and engaging collection. Write your suggestions here.

Library Clubs

Get Involved! Explore the various clubs available in our library this year. Whether you're passionate about reading, need a study partner, or interested to play board games, there's a club for you! Dive into the world of literature and creativity with your fellow students.