Paperboy

I just finished my first summer read, Paperboy by Vince Vawter.  A story about a reflective young boy, who happens to stutter. A boy who experiences a summer that exposes his inner strengths, through listening to what others around him can offer him, as well as their embrace of all he can offer too. I think it is appropriate that author Rob Buyea commented that he loved this book, as Vawter, like Buyea or a Gary Schmidt, develop characters that are as real as someone you know, and you find yourself rooting for their happiness and well being during and after you finish reading. I also know a book is special to me when in between reading it, I think about it and offer insight, as if I am reflecting about someone I care about in real life. For anyone who feels defined by their tangles, or can relate to how that feels, this book will reveal the confidence we all have and need to survive adversity. This book makes a great family read, independent read, and would be a well received read aloud too.

End of School Year

As the school year comes to an end, it is not bittersweet this year, rather it is simply heartbreaking. After nine years, I have faced a reduction in force lay off, based solely on seniority. If I could have one wish, it would be to know the future. The empty pit in my stomach throbs and my heart drips with sadness. Uncertainty festers in my throat, making it hurt to let a breath out. Loss hurts more than blame or shame. Anger revisits when crying gets to exhausting............Because it is an isolating experience and one that nobody can prepare for or understand until it blindsides them and infects them with this trauma, it is a tough challenge to face. I know there are so many people, and so many educators who have gone through this experience, and it is unfortunate there is not a better network for people to express their feelings, and to share strategies with one another. With that being said, I am beyond sick of the great people who mean well and tell me, "Oh, you are going to get something great, do not worry." Really? I am going to get a job that I love so much that I can't believe I am getting paid to do? A new job that I am at the top of my game in and making a difference in the lives of so many kids? A job that makes me feel important? A job that found me because it was my destiny? A job that gave my husband and I health insurance?  Well, some how, I am digging really really deep and putting it all out there...maybe those great people trying to cheer me up are right? That being safe makes people complacent and content. "That BIG things are in my future" and "That everything happens for a reason." I hope they are right. The stakes are high. Stay tuned...