Closure

I recently finished a book entitled Mockingbird, by Kathryn Erskine, and I want you to read it. I blubbered like a baby at the end, and it's not just any book that makes me so emotional that I actually cry. The premise is that the main character Caitlin has Aspergers and is dealing with a major emotional loss. If you know of Aspergers, then you know that emotions are hard to understand and express when a person is on the spectrum. Caitlin's brother Devon was the only one who helped her "Get It," and he was killed in a school shooting. Caitlin's voice is clear and honest, and as she seeks closure for herself, her father and her community, you become completely invested in this person most people cannot relate to. It is a well told story and a hopeful one.

The coolest Goodwill find EVER

I was browsing through the Goodwill bookshelves the other day, finding 99 cent books to squeeze into my classroom bookshelves, when I found this:

I realize now my look of enthusiasm is kind of intense.

The Giver, by Lois Lowry, is a great book, a real steal at less than a buck. It is a post-apocalyptic novel set in a future "perfect" world without color, pain, or the freedom of choice. A young boy named Jonas is selected to be the keeper of memories and is trained by "The Giver." Jonas' world starts to crumble when he realizes all that his community has given up to escape fear. Many of you have probably read it and been sucked in by the stark world Lowry created. It's one of my favorites. 

I'm also trying to build up a set of The Giver large enough to make into a literature circle option. I've got a list of books like this in my mind that I'm always searching for in any thrift store, garage sale or give away box on the side of the street (hey, I've got to be smart with my money people). When I do find one, I make a little noise of joy and do a happy dance right there in the store. All is well in the world. 

I do not look as good as this penguin. A real penguin trying to tap-dance probably looks way better than me. 

Then, I happened to look INSIDE the book.  As I like acting out stories, I have decided to tell this tale in pictures.

La de da, cheap book for my library, I am happy. Oh look, a dedication..."With love to those who read, remember, and GIVE..." Hmm, then there's a scribbled name...

And each name starts with a "L"...

 Kind of like the author's name...

 Oh my freaking goodness.

Did I see that right?

 Did anyone else see this? Will they still let me buy this for 99 cents?!?!

Oh my gosh, THE Lois Lowry actually TOUCHED this book!!!!!!!!!!

 AND SHE WROTE IN IT!! Oh yeah, folks, that's a note from Lois Lowry. Can I get a WOOOOHOOOO?!?!?! And I bought it for 99 CENTS! I put my name in it too. Because it is mine. My own...my precious....

CUE THE AMAZING DANCE ROUTINES OF ECSTATIC JOY!!

I was so nervous while standing in line at the checkout and I think I actually broke into a sweat when the lady was taking my money. There is a dangerous thrill in feeling like you're getting away with something. I wonder if this is what pawn shop owners feel like...

Still...

Best. Goodwill. Find. EVER.