What do I have to do?

This assignment is for non-AP students. Those who are taking either AP Lang or AP Lit: please choose from the above menu for your assignment.

There is no Frigate like a Book

To take us Lands away

Nor any Coursers like a Page

Of prancing Poetry--

This Traverse may the poorest take

Without oppress of Toll--

How frugal is the Chariot

That bears the Human Soul--

Emily Dickinson, "There is no Frigate like a Book" from (02138: The Belknap Press of Harvard University Press)

Source: The Poems of Emily Dickinson Edited by R. W. Franklin (Harvard University Press, 1999)

For the past couple of years, no one has really traveled anywhere, but books were a way for us all to escape to other places and times, and experience a piece of those faraway places through literature, both fiction and nonfiction. For this summer, decide where you want to go. Choose a book to read or to listen to. Not sure what to choose? Ask your friends. Ask family members. Consult the suggested list. What countries would you like to “travel” to this summer without needing a passport? Which titles or authors interest or intrigue you? Perhaps you and a friend or two would like to read the same book and be able to talk about it. Perhaps you already know of a book or two that you’d like to read.

THS requires you to read at least two books in the summer, but you can read as many books as you like and you are not required to select one from this list—it is just a suggested list to inspire you.

Upon returning to school, you will share your books with your classmates in English class. You might give a brief overview, share your reactions, and make recommendations to your classmates. It is always a great day in English class and will be a fantastic chance to make a list for further reading.

So, have a great summer and read great books that take you away to some place new. Read for yourself. We look forward to hearing about your reading experiences in September!

Note: the YA indicates “Young Adult”

“Once A Year, Go Someplace You’ve Never Been Before.” – Dalai Lama