I'm adapting it a bit to fit my WIP and professional writing goals.
Hey Kids, Want to Go On an Adventure?
Hey kids, see this room? Right now it's empty of heart and soul. But it's full of promise. Those boxes are packed with books, and there are more coming that are stashed in my car and house. Each book is an adventure. A little world of mystery, intrigue, and characters who are begging to be known. I know there is one for you. And after that, another. And another. Do you want to go to 1959 Memphis and deliver papers? Maybe you can help show a stuttering boy he's braver than he thinks. Here's Paperboy. Or maybe you'd like to search for the Fountain of Youth in an old mansion in Maine. If so, take a look at The Water Castle. Maybe you'd like to come alongside a girl in Bittersweet, Alabama while she waits for her daddy. Read EveryDay After and let me know what it feels like to live during the Depression. What are you saying? You need a little more action in your adventures? Okay, let me know if sharp-shooting Georgie finds her dead sister in Placid, Wisconsin in 1871 when you finish One Came Home. I bet a Sudanese boy could use a friend while you teach him English at a Minnesota refugee center. Tell me what you learn from him while you're reading Home of the Brave. I bet you can help inspire a hurting boy to write about his dog if you read Love That Dog. What's that? You love animals? Oh, well then, you'll certainly feel that the Exit 8 Big Top Mall and Video Arcade is not the best place for a lovable gorilla and a baby elephant. Can you help them out? Tell me if you can when you read The One and Only Ivan. Maybe you'd like to laugh and have a good time on your adventure. Yes? There's a little finger puppet that always makes me laugh. Wander around the halls of McQuarrie Middle School with some 6th graders in this book, The Strange Case of Origami Yoda. Wow, the adventures we will take in this room. Right now, it's not ready. When it is, I'll have plenty of places you can go.
I want to go there and join you all in your adventures! You have certainly piqued my interest. Wish I were a 5th/6th grader once again -- but only if I could be in your class. :-) BTW, your Liebster Award is beautiful. Congratulations!
ReplyDeleteThank you!
DeleteHolly, I love this! Your first lines set the stage with the empty classroom photos. "Full of promise." And then diving right into the snippets of books! Hooked! Best of luck with the new school year!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Michelle!
DeleteWow! Wonderfully written! I might have to read that to my students when school starts! Thank you!
ReplyDeleteThat's a good idea - I need to read it to my students, too! ;-)
DeleteWhat a great space! I can't wait to hear all about how your students fulfill the promise it holds as they learn and grow from all the wonderful books you are ready to share with them!
ReplyDeleteI love your first three lines. Your voice is strong and draws me in.
ReplyDeleteRuth