Rich Dad, Poor Dad

Never has a book evoked so much emotion than this one. In the beginning of the text, I was humored. As I read a few more more pages I was a tad skeptical, a few more pages had me angry and as I made it to the final section, I was inspired. Let me explain:

The beginning of the book is a reminiscence of one fellow's childhood quest to make money (using a science text, old metal, and a nickel mold): childhood counterfieting. As the child grew so did his instruction on making money which is the part where I became skeptical (so easy? huh!)

The section of the book which angered me was the author's reminder that I work from January to May just to pay the government taxes! I am working to pay for services that I may not even have the opportunity to use (social security being one)! I work, pay bills, work, pay bills.....a pattern not unlike a hamster running on a wheel (run, spin, run, spin). Both of us (hamster and I) getting nowhere fast!

At the end of the book, I have become inspired. I may not become the next "Rockefeller", but I am going to aspire to have my money work for me and not the other way around.

Read "Rich Dad, Poor Dad" and be inspired. (or maybe wealthy).

Are You There, Vodka? It's Me, Chelsea

Yes, that is the title of the selection I am now reading. Believe it! The back cover states that the author writes like an adult Judy Blume. I agree. Chelsea Handler is writes a personal narrative which begins in her third grade year and hops through to age 30 something. Her anecdotes are "laugh out loud" funny, but her language choices degrade intelligent women everywhere.

I suggest that if you want a quick read that is a humorous, yet trashy, outlook on one person's life, then this is a book for you. If not, then check out John Steinbeck.

School Prep Readings

Thinking of school in June? Yes, I am a crazy woman. Imagine, prereading any and all material which I am considering using for the upcoming school year! This week I finished (in about an hour) the Gordon Korman book, "The 6th Grade Nickname Game". It was an easy read and actually very entertaining. As I read the book I was reminded of my own 6th grade experiences: being called a nickname isn't all that wonderful! I was also thinking of possible student activities (okay, I just took the enjoyment out of reading!).

Another book I have previewed is "Walk Two Moons" by Sharon Creech. Two of my colleagues (friends) disliked the book, but I did read it because one person liked it (apparently, I am desperate to read a book). "Walk Two Moons" is surprisingly good. I personally like the character, Phoebe. She reminds me of a student I had in previous years who thought she knew everything (she was annoying and very wrong).

Of the two books for this school year, I am choosing to begin with the Korman book. I believe the 6th graders will relate to the characters and maybe understand that nicknaming isn't fun for everyone (especially the one being named). The book also touches upon first crushes which adds to the drama in our current 6th graders.

Those of you with strong opinions, feel free to comment.

Summer Reading

Days of relaxing by the pool with a good book is upon us. So much time, so few books. In the immortal words of Willie Wonka (Gene Wilder) "scratch that, reverse it!". So many books, so little time. If you know of a great book, post it!

Always reading, always seeking a great book!

Eat, Pray, Love

This novel by Elizabeth Gilbert is a well written journal of the struggles of most women: spirituality, love and finding out where one's place is in the mix. The best quote from the book thus far, in my opinion,"deciding to have a baby is like deciding whether to put a tattoo across your face." Seriously, I laughed outloud.

Gilbert's journey to find herself is one that all women should take (although, I don't think we need to spend a year in 3 foreign countries to find ourselves).