As the school year draws to an end, students are quick to shut their textbooks and enjoy their summer. However, LHS teachers are not hypocritical when encouraging students to embark on their reading.
Mary Peters is surrounded by books of various genres as an LHS librarian. She was drawn towards mystery novels with a touch of realism and romance over the summer months. Among the 65 books read, “First Lie Wins” by Ashley Elston shines as a five-star read. Peters was captivated by the twists and turns on each page, keeping her anticipating the next chapter. A similar gripping experience in “Middle of the Night” by Riley Sager follows Ethan, a 10-year-old boy, and his missing childhood friend. During his adulthood, Ethan begins to uncover the truth of Billy’s disappearance while rekindling old friendships and neighbors.
“The best part of summer is sitting in the sun with a great book,” said Peters.
Passing through the freshman hallway, Xavier Pastrano is eager to discuss book recommendations in room A134 where he teaches Accelerated English I and II. Over the summer, Pastrano finished 18 books spanning horror, memoirs and science fiction. His five-star read was “Down with the System” by Serj Tankian, the lead singer of an alternative band named System of a Down. This book held a special place for Pastrano as Tankian’s band songs frequently played during his high school and college years. Pastrano gained insight into the Armenian genocide and heritage to understand how these events shaped the author into the man he is today. Pastrano also explored the sci-fi realm with “Dune” by Frank Herbert, a novel following Paul Atreides on the planet Arrakis.
Megan McHenry teaches both English II and III. She read a total of four books, mainly in the young adult, realistic fiction and dystopian genres. Erin Stewart’s “Scars Like Wings” was rated five stars, as the protagonist and the message left a lasting impression. It tells the story of Ava who undergoes reconstructive surgery after being burned in a house fire. She attempts to live like her previous life in a new town but she struggles with her new identity.
Not only is Cindy Cummins a snack supplier, but she also teaches English II and supervises the Yearbook team. Despite her extra work hours, she finished three books and started eight others. Cummins enjoys historical fiction, action, thrillers and realistic fiction that is not overly sappy. She appreciated poetry and occasionally delved into insightful books.
“I call those brain drains because I have to think and underline (annotate) as I go so I can get all the value out of it,” said Cummins.
This summer, she read about the impact of cellphone use on children’s anxiety; she also revisited “The Alice Network” by Kate Quinn from last summer because she felt drawn to Quinn’s persuasive writing. This historical fiction is recommended for students who appreciate a narrative from a gifted author’s perspective. The novel follows Charlie as she conceals her pregnancy and protects her family’s name by moving to France and giving birth in secret. She searches for her missing cousin Rose and uncovers the stories of women involved in espionage during World War I.
Each teacher highly recommends a book from the selection above, expecting to see you at LHS library searching for more.
