SUMMER READING
English 12-1
Ms. Landenberger
348-7156
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The Good Earth by Pearl S. Buck
Novels can tell us so much about periods of time, cultures, places, people.
This is certainly the case with Pearl Buck’s The Good Earth. Your summer assignment is as follows:
1) Read about Pearl Buck in an encyclopedia and/or on-line at http://www.english.upenn.edu/Projects/Buck/psb.html
2) Read the novel. You’ll probably want to use an index card as a bookmark and on that card record the names and identities of new characters as they are introduced.
3) Write an analysis of the novel: Focus on…
a main character,
a theme,
the point of view, or
recurring images and symbols
Whatever focus you choose, discuss in depth on how the theme, character, point of view or imagery reflects the Chinese culture as told through the pen of an American writer.
The analysis should make a statement about the text: Think of it as a thesis. That statement should be supported by examples from the text. Be sure to explain the importance of each example.
The paper should be three – four pages, typed (12 pt.), double-spaced, with one-inch margins. Use illustrative references to the text when you write, and be sure the paper reflects your own personal reaction Buck’s text.
The paper will be due the first day of class in August.
Questions? Just call or write me!
English 10-1
Ms. Landenberger
348-7156
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Required summer reading:
To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
Response to literature: Two - four pages, typewritten, double spaced, 12- point type
Due the first day of class in January.
Prompt: To Kill a Mockingbird is focused on the events of a particular time and place, but in many ways it can be read as a universal and timeless love story. Please explore and expose this aspect of the novel.
Guidelines for writing a response to text are available on the Leland and Gray website.
Extra credit:
Tess of the D’Urbervilles by Thomas Hardy
Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte
