Friends our students took time to reflect on literature they read this year with the view of “books as mirrors and windows “. Enjoy their insights and share your own . Blessings

Grace

Mirrors
Trumpet of the Swan by E.B. White
This book really resonated with me, just like Charlotte’s web, White’s other book, did. I
especially resonated with Sam, the main (human) character of the book. I saw myself in him in
the way he pondered about things and wondered why things were the way they are. The way he
was so intrigued and curious about the trumpet swans reminded me of my own curiosity to
nature and the beauty of creatures. I especially admired him for his gentleness and
thoughtfulness toward the birds and is something I want to uphold to other people around me.
Windows
Enemies in the Orchard by Dana VanderLugt
Windows allow you to see through something. This book helped me to better see
through the eyes and minds of children during the second World War. The viewpoints of
German prisoner Carl and American farmer’s daughter Clarie really showed the eclectic
backgrounds both came from, but also how similar they are in their thoughtfulness towards one
another. The book opened a window for me to see how non-Nazi Germans struggled to find
their place during this time, and also how hard it was for Claire to be around Carl, a young
former Nazi who had been forced into the party under pressure from his country. I’m glad this
window has opened in my mind that gives me a clearer picture on what life was like back then,
from a viewpoint on both sides.

Isaiah

Mirror
I think that I resemble Janner from The Wingfeather Saga, by Andrew Peterson, because he knows how to take care of himself and other people. He also generally knows what to do in most situations. He loves and respects his family and friends and has a strong relationship with his Maker.
Window
I also think that I could use The Wingfeather Saga as a window, because it shows that every good and perfect thing comes from above and it can be twisted and corrupted by humans. It also shows how one little lie can have a big impact on not just the people around you but it can spread over the whole world, so you should be careful with what you say. This book shows that just as light can turn into darkness, darkness can turn into light, God just has to work through people to correct it. Darkness should never be
destroyed; it should be transformed to light. Finally, The Wingfeather Saga shows that the Maker of the Earth always has a plan.

Gretchen

Mirror
Laura from The Long Winter by Laura Ingalls is a very generous person. She always likes to help out, especially with her dad with the crops. Laura is also very courageous. One time she and her sister were lost in the tall long grass. She kept her sister to her side and went through the grass until she was safely home. She also stood up to Nelly and her brother who were not very nice. She was also a very kind sister. I admired Laura and I think she and I are connected in some ways.
Window
The Long Winter taught me that when there’s a bad situation to always stick together and to help other
people out. Also when you have a lot of food try to get to all the townspeople so they can stay healthy too. Always to help find the way so supplies can get to people who need them. You should always help others before yourself. My family has done these things for Haiti and will continue to do them with God right by their side.