Must Reads #1

This is an interesting piece from a NYTimes Magazine issue about my latest favorite series: The Hunger Games. This trilogy highlights all that I love about reading: I love books that are engaging, deep, and thought-provoking (but then again, who doesn't?). The article really discusses the books -- I'm here to tell you a little more about why I consider them "must-reads."

I couldn't put the books down! They tackled issues of war, rebellion, government control, friendship, romance, and still managed to make new and interesting commentaries on pop culture and media. I taught the first book in my 6th and 7th grade classes this year, and also recommended the books to many of my 8th graders. Just the interaction with the text prompted big discussions in my room on all of the above topics, and also got my kids making connections to current events locally and globally, as well as Greek mythology. Books that come with such dynamic results for the reader are why I love reading! I don't make book recommendations lightly -- but, you must read these books.

The biggest disappointment? The trilogy is over. And somehow, I want more...

~MJ