I have been so busy with the start of the new semester that I have done very little reading, other than looking at and marking student assignments. I have done some reading which is summarized here.

This is so much more than a children’s book. It is the story some of my students back in the 70s experienced as they fled Vietnam, were sponsored by local churches, and were plopped into my reading class with no knowledge of English. This was one of my most challenging and most rewarding teaching assignments ever. I often wonder what became of Son, Hau and Dung, and where they ended up. I often wonder if they are well and happy.

I am reading this book slowly, savoring every word and appreciating the lovely word choices and phrasing.

This is a wonderful novel. I am lucky enough to get the large print edition from my local library. It is a long book to begin with, and in large print, it is a good five inches thick!

There isn’t a day that goes by that this book doesn’t speak to me. I copy many of its copious quotes into my Quote Notebook, and think all day about what this author says. I am learning to think about myself, my life, and things, in general, differently because of this book.

When I opened my mailbox, there was a book! I was excited because I couldn’t remember ordering one. Peachtree Publishers were kind enough to send me a free copy, and I had forgotten it was even coming. What a wonderful surprise! It will be perfect for a Saturday Morning for Kids post.

It’s definitely time for another classic! I have plenty on hand on my TBR, it’s just a matter of picking one up.

So, happy reading, and as we say goodbye to January, let’s look at February as a month of love–to others and to ourselves.