Sunday, December 23, 2007
ATTENTION CLARK.
My synopsis is in September...i started it then, but published now. Also, please excuse the missing climax and plot summary...I read it so long ago I couldn't remember much of it hehe....
Monday, November 19, 2007
Book Synopsis: Animal Farm

Author: George Orwell
Publication Date: 1946
Page Count: 139
Type: Fiction
Started On: 11/1
Finished On: 11/19
My Grade: B
1. Why did I decide to read this book?
I mainly decided to read this book because it was short. The normal page limit is 200, so when the opportunity arose to read a book shorter than that, I jumped at the chance. This book was also reccomended to me by a friend. I also liked the fact it was based on a farm. I've grown up on a farm my entire life, and this really drew me into the book.
2. Plot summary (avoiding major spoilers when possible).
Work, pain, suffering; the only things the animals of Manor Farm have ever known. After much debate, the animals decide to rebel against their tyrannical master, Jones. After successfully expeling Jones from the farm, the animals can finally live their lives the way they want to; with no human involvement. The pigs, the smartest of all the animals on the farm, assume the leadership role. With all of England looking on, the animals begin to build themselves a brighter future through Animal Farm. However, the pigs-lead by their self appointed leader, Napoleon, become greedy with their complete power over the farm. Will Animal Farm survive, or cease to exsist under the rule of the pigs?
3. What is the setting and why is it important to the novel?
The setting is a farm in England. The time period would be early 1900's. The setting is quite important to the novel because it is about a farm. England, however, has little to do with the story. The time period is very important because it shows technology available to the animals at the time.
4. Who are the main characters and what roles do they play in the novel?
The main characters are Napoleon, a boar; Snowball, a pig; Squealer, a pig; Boxer, a horse; and Jones, the owner of Manor Farm. Napoleon is the self-appointed leader of Animal Farm. Snowball is a very opinionated pig and is exiled, by Napoleon, from Animal Farm. Boxer is the main worker of Animal Farm, always doing more than his part to get a job done. Jones is the human whom the animals rebelled against for ownership of Manor Farm.
5. What/is are the main conflict(s) in the novel?
The initial conflict is the battle of the animals against the humans. However, as the story progresses, we see an internal struggle develop amongst the animals. Napoleon becomes more dicator like every day, to many animals dismay. Most animals are against Napoleon, but are too afraid to stand up. Another side conflict would be the power struggle between Napoleon and Snowball, ultimately ending in Snowballs exile from Animal Farm.
6. Describe the climax of the novel.
Throughout the story, the pigs become more and more humanized. This all finally builds up to a scene where we see the pigs actually walk on two legs. The other animals are distraught at his and do not know what to think. The pigs, who have preached about anti-humanity for so long, are suddenly quite human like. How well will this bode with the other animals?
7. What is the significance of the books title? Is it appropriate or would I change it to something else?
The books title is very significant. It is completely about an "Animal Farm". I believe it is an appropriate title. I wouldn't change it at all. It was a perfect selection for the book.
8. What is my opinion of the book?
Quite unique and humerous, I believe it lacked a good climax. All in all, a very well written novel. I really felt a connection to the animals as the author gave them human-like qualities. I could also relate with the day-to-day labors of the animals, having grown up on a farm myself. I give this book a B rating, mainly because I disliked the ending; too abrupt.
Friday, November 16, 2007
Journals 11/5 - 11/16
Journals
11/5
You won the lottery. What do you buy first?
I would buy the highschool a great atheltic facility. Turf, 8 lane rubber track, the whole shabang. I would also buy the pool an indoor pool to support the Keyser swim team.
11/6
Lottery winner... which of your friends/family get a chunk.
I wouldn't share any. I'm extremely greedy. It would be mine and all mine.
11/7
Lottery winner... will you still go to school/get a job.
I would definitely finish school and probably go to college. I wouldn't, however, get a job. That would be stupid if I was a millionaire.
11/8
Lottery winner... would you donate to charity?
I wouldn't donate a dime. It all gets misappropriated anyway. What would be the point?
11/9
Is it fair that the bulk of KHS fundraising goes to the sports complex?
It is 100% fair. All the money that is spent on the complex will be gained back after 2 or 3 seasons of football. For all the people complaining about football getting everything...if turf is installed soccer will play there as well.
11/13
Are the current speed limits reasonable?
They most definitely arent. I want to go fast! In fact, there should be no speed limits at all.
11/14
Whats on top of your Christmas list?
Well, an Xbox 360 would be at the top. However, my Ipod recently broke...so it has replaced the Xbox. My music is way more important than video games.
11/15
Have you been "naughty" or "nice" this year?
I've been nice this year. I expect oodles of presents for Christmas. I should be rewarded for my labors.
11/16
What is the most essential Thanksgiving menu item?
The mashed potatoes. Only if they come with gravy, though. Light colored gravy, at that.
11/5
You won the lottery. What do you buy first?
I would buy the highschool a great atheltic facility. Turf, 8 lane rubber track, the whole shabang. I would also buy the pool an indoor pool to support the Keyser swim team.
11/6
Lottery winner... which of your friends/family get a chunk.
I wouldn't share any. I'm extremely greedy. It would be mine and all mine.
11/7
Lottery winner... will you still go to school/get a job.
I would definitely finish school and probably go to college. I wouldn't, however, get a job. That would be stupid if I was a millionaire.
11/8
Lottery winner... would you donate to charity?
I wouldn't donate a dime. It all gets misappropriated anyway. What would be the point?
11/9
Is it fair that the bulk of KHS fundraising goes to the sports complex?
It is 100% fair. All the money that is spent on the complex will be gained back after 2 or 3 seasons of football. For all the people complaining about football getting everything...if turf is installed soccer will play there as well.
11/13
Are the current speed limits reasonable?
They most definitely arent. I want to go fast! In fact, there should be no speed limits at all.
11/14
Whats on top of your Christmas list?
Well, an Xbox 360 would be at the top. However, my Ipod recently broke...so it has replaced the Xbox. My music is way more important than video games.
11/15
Have you been "naughty" or "nice" this year?
I've been nice this year. I expect oodles of presents for Christmas. I should be rewarded for my labors.
11/16
What is the most essential Thanksgiving menu item?
The mashed potatoes. Only if they come with gravy, though. Light colored gravy, at that.
Tuesday, November 6, 2007
Journal 10/29 - 11/2
Journals
10/29
Which CW character is your favorite?
My favorite character is Goober. I can definitely relate to him. The fact that he's a wide reciever is also pretty cool.
10/30
If you could change one thing from your past what would you change.
There are many things I wish I could change. I don't think I can narrow it down to one moment. I just wish I could've known then what I know now.
10/31
Promote a teacher to a new principal.
I would promote Mr. Kalbaugh to principal. He was one of the greatest teachers I've ever had. He was extremely smart.
11/1
Are you too old to trick-or-treat?
You're never too old to trick-or-treat. I personally just don't like going. It's way too cold for me.
11/2
Whats your dream car?
A '67 Mustang Shelby GT 500. Elanor. Enough said.
10/29
Which CW character is your favorite?
My favorite character is Goober. I can definitely relate to him. The fact that he's a wide reciever is also pretty cool.
10/30
If you could change one thing from your past what would you change.
There are many things I wish I could change. I don't think I can narrow it down to one moment. I just wish I could've known then what I know now.
10/31
Promote a teacher to a new principal.
I would promote Mr. Kalbaugh to principal. He was one of the greatest teachers I've ever had. He was extremely smart.
11/1
Are you too old to trick-or-treat?
You're never too old to trick-or-treat. I personally just don't like going. It's way too cold for me.
11/2
Whats your dream car?
A '67 Mustang Shelby GT 500. Elanor. Enough said.
Friday, October 26, 2007
Journals 10/22 - 10/26
Journals
10/22
Would you rather have an easy class with lots of homework, or a hard class with little homework?
I would definitely prefer a hard class with little homework. I would rather stress my brain in school and get work done, and not have anything to do at home. I do enough work during school, why should I have to do more at home?
10/23
Which decade has the best music: 60's, 70's, 80's, or 90's?
The 80's, by far, beheld the best music. What other decade could you find fret-burning guitar solos; screaming, gritty lyrics; and 8 minute minute long power ballads? No other decade even compares with the 80's.
10/24
Do you like to hunt?
I do enjoy a nice hunt. There's nothing quite like it. The waiting, the chase, and the kill.
10/25
9 weeks in - has your lunchline opinion changed?
I really enjoy the new lunchline. The setup has highly increased the lunch tray output per minute. This allows all of us to get our lunches much quicker.
10/26
Do you (or will you) play the lottery?
I plan on playing the lottery when I come of age. As of now, I sometimes purchase scratch off tickets (well, I get my father to purchase them.) However, I definitely don't plan on becoming a gambling addict!
10/22
Would you rather have an easy class with lots of homework, or a hard class with little homework?
I would definitely prefer a hard class with little homework. I would rather stress my brain in school and get work done, and not have anything to do at home. I do enough work during school, why should I have to do more at home?
10/23
Which decade has the best music: 60's, 70's, 80's, or 90's?
The 80's, by far, beheld the best music. What other decade could you find fret-burning guitar solos; screaming, gritty lyrics; and 8 minute minute long power ballads? No other decade even compares with the 80's.
10/24
Do you like to hunt?
I do enjoy a nice hunt. There's nothing quite like it. The waiting, the chase, and the kill.
10/25
9 weeks in - has your lunchline opinion changed?
I really enjoy the new lunchline. The setup has highly increased the lunch tray output per minute. This allows all of us to get our lunches much quicker.
10/26
Do you (or will you) play the lottery?
I plan on playing the lottery when I come of age. As of now, I sometimes purchase scratch off tickets (well, I get my father to purchase them.) However, I definitely don't plan on becoming a gambling addict!
Friday, October 19, 2007
Journals 10/15 - 10/19
Journals
10/15
Whats the most annoying pet naming convention?
I really dislike when people use the name of the animal. An example would be "Ms. Kitty". **EDITED**
10/16
Of all the pets you've had, which had the coolest name?
Well considering I've only had 4 pets in my life, cool names are few and far between. I've had 1 dog, 2 cats, and a gecko. The coolest name, however, would have to be Tiger- my gecko.
10/18
Suggest 3 journal topics.
1-What is your highest guitar hero score?
2-Whats the largest amount of money you've ever had?
3-Boxers, briefs, or a thong?
10/19
Great job and lousy pay or lousy job with great pay?
I believe I would prefer a lousy job with great pay. Who cares if you have a crappy job, at least you'll have a great home life. Unless, you spend more time at your job than you do at home.
10/15
Whats the most annoying pet naming convention?
I really dislike when people use the name of the animal. An example would be "Ms. Kitty". **EDITED**
10/16
Of all the pets you've had, which had the coolest name?
Well considering I've only had 4 pets in my life, cool names are few and far between. I've had 1 dog, 2 cats, and a gecko. The coolest name, however, would have to be Tiger- my gecko.
10/18
Suggest 3 journal topics.
1-What is your highest guitar hero score?
2-Whats the largest amount of money you've ever had?
3-Boxers, briefs, or a thong?
10/19
Great job and lousy pay or lousy job with great pay?
I believe I would prefer a lousy job with great pay. Who cares if you have a crappy job, at least you'll have a great home life. Unless, you spend more time at your job than you do at home.
Monday, October 15, 2007
Journals- 10/9 - 10/12
Journals
10/9
How do you like your eggs?
I definately like my eggs scrambled. Scrambled kicks over-easy's butt. Heck, if I can cook scrambled eggs, they have to be good.
10/10
Write me a get well card/message/sentiment.
Clark, I hope you get better. I mean it must be tough laying at home in bed while I'm slaving away in class.... So I wish you all the luck in the world.
10/11
Vote out three posters.
I wouldn't take any posters out. Posters are great. If you take any posts off I'll be thoroughly angry with you.
10/12
Are you satisfied with your grade?
Well, considering I don't know my grade, I really can't answer that. I hope I have a good grade in here. If I don't, at least its weighted!
10/9
How do you like your eggs?
I definately like my eggs scrambled. Scrambled kicks over-easy's butt. Heck, if I can cook scrambled eggs, they have to be good.
10/10
Write me a get well card/message/sentiment.
Clark, I hope you get better. I mean it must be tough laying at home in bed while I'm slaving away in class.... So I wish you all the luck in the world.
10/11
Vote out three posters.
I wouldn't take any posters out. Posters are great. If you take any posts off I'll be thoroughly angry with you.
10/12
Are you satisfied with your grade?
Well, considering I don't know my grade, I really can't answer that. I hope I have a good grade in here. If I don't, at least its weighted!
Monday, October 8, 2007
Friday, October 5, 2007
Journals 9/28 - 10/5
Journals
9/28
Do violent video games affect players negatively? Do they change them violently?
I don't believe this is true. If anything, more kids watch violent television than play violent games. This is just some sad hypothesis made up by an angry parent.
10/1
Did you have trouble completeing the quote project?
I managed the quote project quite easily. The only trouble I had was that the first paragraph had to be three sentences long. That gave me a little bit of trouble.
10/2
Who is your hero?
My hero is Clive Winston. He is the ultimate southern guitarist featured on the Guitar Hero games. Calm, cool, and collected, Clive is my hero.
10/3
Critique each hallways decor.
I believe the best hallway is definatley the SOPHOMORE hallway! However, the juniors hallway was very unique with the way they used every students name. The freshmen hallway was pitiful. The seniors hallway was decent.
10/4
Based on your life now, predict your death.
As of now, I believe I will die a cold, lonely man, betrayed by the one I thought I loved. My funeral will be empty, no one there that loved me, no one that cared. My life will have been nothing more than a lie, a sham; and my death will follow suit.
10/5
Homecoming- Who will win? (Predict the score)
Like it's even a question who will win! KHS all the way! Score: 54-14
9/28
Do violent video games affect players negatively? Do they change them violently?
I don't believe this is true. If anything, more kids watch violent television than play violent games. This is just some sad hypothesis made up by an angry parent.
10/1
Did you have trouble completeing the quote project?
I managed the quote project quite easily. The only trouble I had was that the first paragraph had to be three sentences long. That gave me a little bit of trouble.
10/2
Who is your hero?
My hero is Clive Winston. He is the ultimate southern guitarist featured on the Guitar Hero games. Calm, cool, and collected, Clive is my hero.
10/3
Critique each hallways decor.
I believe the best hallway is definatley the SOPHOMORE hallway! However, the juniors hallway was very unique with the way they used every students name. The freshmen hallway was pitiful. The seniors hallway was decent.
10/4
Based on your life now, predict your death.
As of now, I believe I will die a cold, lonely man, betrayed by the one I thought I loved. My funeral will be empty, no one there that loved me, no one that cared. My life will have been nothing more than a lie, a sham; and my death will follow suit.
10/5
Homecoming- Who will win? (Predict the score)
Like it's even a question who will win! KHS all the way! Score: 54-14
Friday, September 28, 2007
Book Synopsis- The Demonata: Slawter

Author: Darren Shan
Publication Date: November, 2006
Page Count: 233
Type: Fiction
Started On: September 11, 2007
Finished On: September 22, 2007
My Grade: B
1. Why did I decide to read this book?
I decided to read this book to continue on with the Demonata series. This is the third book in the series. I have read the two previous books, and I hope to read the two after this book. I decided to begin reading this series because I loved Darren's previous series, Cirque Du Freak. So far, the books have been enjoyable from start to finish.
2. Plot summary (avoiding major spoilers when possible).
3. What is the setting, and why is it important to the novel?
The book involves two settings. The first, is a small village where Grubbs and Dervish are from. The second, a movie set secluded in the desert. The second setting is very important because the movie set is secluded, anything can go on there and no one would ever have to know. This proves to be a very key element late in the book.
4. Who are the main characters and what roles do they play in the novel?
There are two main characters in the story, Grubbs and Dervish Grady. Grubbs is a 14 year old boy who has already faced the Demonata on a seperate occasion. Dervish, Grubbs' uncle, is an experience Demonata battler and is intent on training Grubbs to fight the Demonata better. Other important characters are Davdia Haym, Bill-E-Spleen,
5. What is/are the main conflict(s) in the novel?
The main conflict in the novel is Grubbs trying to solve the strange disappearances on the movie set. Another conflict is Dervish falling in love with one of the film crew. Along with solving the mystery of the disappearing people, Grubbs must also deal with very cruel actors. Another conflict involves Grubbs and Bill-E's ego's disrupting their friendship. These all add together to create a type of "super-conflict" in the story.
6. Describe the climax of the novel.
7. What is the significance of of the book's title? Is the title appropriate or would I change it to something else?
The books title has a double sided meaning. The most obvious would be it uses the word "Slaughter" mispelled, creating a sinister appearance to the book. The second meaning of the title is that the town where the movie is shot, is named Slawter. I believe the books title is very appropriate. I would not change the title.
8. What is my opinion of this book? Why (give specifics)?
My final grade of the book was a "B." I enjoyed the action sequences throughout the story, although they were few and far between. This book seemed to have alot of "down time", showing the day-to-day life on a movie set. However, when the action did pick up, it was more explosive and gorier than any of the previous Demonata books. This was my least favorite of the Demonata series.
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Journals 9/20 - 9/27
Journals
9/20
Which fast food business should open up in Keyser? Which should close?
Well, we definately need a Chik-fil-a to open up in Keyser. It is flat out the best fast food restaurant you will ever eat in. Now, which restaurant should close? Thats simple enough... KFC/Long John Silvers should be forced to close, pack up, and move out.
9/21
Have you ever eaten octopus? Would you?
No, I have never eaten octopus. It sounds absolutely disgusting. You would have to pay me at least $5 to eat octopus.
9/24
Are/Were you nervous to get your driver license?
No, I'm not really nervous about getting my license. I have to get my permit first anyway... Even if I fail the first time I take the test, I'll just keep going back until I pass.
9/25
Is punishing the entire class for the actions of one student fair? Is it effective?
I believe it is totally fair. It is also very effective. We'll see if Jack ever cheats again after I rip into him for making us write out our DOLs.
9/26
Video Games: Which one has frittered most of your life away?
I'm tempted to say Guitar Hero, but there is one game that blows that one out of the water; Runescape. Runescape is a mmorpg which I have played for 5 1/2 years. Wow...
9/27
Video Games: Which game is the most fun to watch other people play?
Well, I really like watching other people play Guitar Hero. It's not really watching them play that I like, however, it's watching how much better I am than them that I enjoy. I don't mean to brag, but I'm the best there ever was.
9/20
Which fast food business should open up in Keyser? Which should close?
Well, we definately need a Chik-fil-a to open up in Keyser. It is flat out the best fast food restaurant you will ever eat in. Now, which restaurant should close? Thats simple enough... KFC/Long John Silvers should be forced to close, pack up, and move out.
9/21
Have you ever eaten octopus? Would you?
No, I have never eaten octopus. It sounds absolutely disgusting. You would have to pay me at least $5 to eat octopus.
9/24
Are/Were you nervous to get your driver license?
No, I'm not really nervous about getting my license. I have to get my permit first anyway... Even if I fail the first time I take the test, I'll just keep going back until I pass.
9/25
Is punishing the entire class for the actions of one student fair? Is it effective?
I believe it is totally fair. It is also very effective. We'll see if Jack ever cheats again after I rip into him for making us write out our DOLs.
9/26
Video Games: Which one has frittered most of your life away?
I'm tempted to say Guitar Hero, but there is one game that blows that one out of the water; Runescape. Runescape is a mmorpg which I have played for 5 1/2 years. Wow...
9/27
Video Games: Which game is the most fun to watch other people play?
Well, I really like watching other people play Guitar Hero. It's not really watching them play that I like, however, it's watching how much better I am than them that I enjoy. I don't mean to brag, but I'm the best there ever was.
Sunday, September 23, 2007
A Love
A Love
Everytime I looked at you, my heart skipped a beat
The conclusion to each day
I wonder if you knew, my love, that my heart was at your feet
I've never felt a love like that before
A love that made me smile from ear to ear
It was a love like no other, something I had always hoped for
A Love that was joyful without any fear
A Love with no tears, pain or doubt
A Love with souls tender and true
A Love that is beautiful from the inside out
A Love that I found, only in you
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Journals: 9/10 - 9/19
DOL's
9/10
Plant these Japanese iris bulbs next to the daffodils, Pam, if you want an attractive display next spring.
9/11
Terry doesn't run very well but he always enters Run For Your Life, a five-mile race held on labor day.
9/12
Neither of my parents is able to take me to the Village Theater to see Oscar Wilde's play The Importance of Being Earnest.
9/13
Adriana, please set those books of SHakespeare's plays on this stand; we'll be using them later in class.
9/14
Shawn said that neither of the singers was professionally trained, but their rendition of "Maria" was stunning.
9/17
Neither my friend nor my sister has the time to address these envelopes; maybe someone else can help.
9/18
Rob told us that the picture has not been hung properly, and it will have to be taken down and done correctly.
9/19
Keiko and I have to order these items: two dozen pizzas, three cases of jice, and, I suppose, enough placemats for everyone attending the festival.
Journals
9/10
Comment on the salty hamburger story.
Is that even legal? Maybe the cop should've noticed the burger tasted odd and promptly returned it. Instead, the oaf continued eating the "salty" burger, regardless of how sick he was getting. What a moron...
9/11
Do you think 9/11 happened as reported or was/is there a sinister conspiracy/cover-up ?
As much as I hate to believe it, I think there was a plot behind 9/11. Many clues point to a government conspiracy. Just watch the Loose Change video, you'll understand.
9/12
Would you consider Britney Spears fat?
No, I wouldn't consider Britney fat. Infact, I would consider her far from fat. Every critic that calls her fat, is probably fat themselves.
9/13
Do you prefer this years enrichment block to last years study hall?
Actually, I don't like either. I would prefer to just read or do homework as opposed to going over stuff I already know. The way it is now is just a waste of time.
9/14
"Cheaters never prosper"; True statement?
I believe it is a true statement. For example, just watch Scarface. That will answer all your questions.
9/17
Is it better for your location to be too hot or too cold?
I would rather it be too cold. When its hot, you eventually get to where you cant take anymore layers of clothing off. When its too cold, however, you can keep adding layers of clothing on.
9/18
Invent a candybar.
I would invent a Happy Bar. A candy bar that will relieve all of your stress and agony. That would be the perfect candy.
9/19
Which item on the McDonalds menu should be permanently banned?
I believe the salads should be banned. They're just a sad attempt to try to become a health-conscious fast food restaurant. McDonalds should just get over it and realize people don't go there to get healthy (obviously).
9/10
Plant these Japanese iris bulbs next to the daffodils, Pam, if you want an attractive display next spring.
9/11
Terry doesn't run very well but he always enters Run For Your Life, a five-mile race held on labor day.
9/12
Neither of my parents is able to take me to the Village Theater to see Oscar Wilde's play The Importance of Being Earnest.
9/13
Adriana, please set those books of SHakespeare's plays on this stand; we'll be using them later in class.
9/14
Shawn said that neither of the singers was professionally trained, but their rendition of "Maria" was stunning.
9/17
Neither my friend nor my sister has the time to address these envelopes; maybe someone else can help.
9/18
Rob told us that the picture has not been hung properly, and it will have to be taken down and done correctly.
9/19
Keiko and I have to order these items: two dozen pizzas, three cases of jice, and, I suppose, enough placemats for everyone attending the festival.
Journals
9/10
Comment on the salty hamburger story.
Is that even legal? Maybe the cop should've noticed the burger tasted odd and promptly returned it. Instead, the oaf continued eating the "salty" burger, regardless of how sick he was getting. What a moron...
9/11
Do you think 9/11 happened as reported or was/is there a sinister conspiracy/cover-up ?
As much as I hate to believe it, I think there was a plot behind 9/11. Many clues point to a government conspiracy. Just watch the Loose Change video, you'll understand.
9/12
Would you consider Britney Spears fat?
No, I wouldn't consider Britney fat. Infact, I would consider her far from fat. Every critic that calls her fat, is probably fat themselves.
9/13
Do you prefer this years enrichment block to last years study hall?
Actually, I don't like either. I would prefer to just read or do homework as opposed to going over stuff I already know. The way it is now is just a waste of time.
9/14
"Cheaters never prosper"; True statement?
I believe it is a true statement. For example, just watch Scarface. That will answer all your questions.
9/17
Is it better for your location to be too hot or too cold?
I would rather it be too cold. When its hot, you eventually get to where you cant take anymore layers of clothing off. When its too cold, however, you can keep adding layers of clothing on.
9/18
Invent a candybar.
I would invent a Happy Bar. A candy bar that will relieve all of your stress and agony. That would be the perfect candy.
9/19
Which item on the McDonalds menu should be permanently banned?
I believe the salads should be banned. They're just a sad attempt to try to become a health-conscious fast food restaurant. McDonalds should just get over it and realize people don't go there to get healthy (obviously).
Sunday, September 16, 2007
The Worst Day of My Life
Have you ever had your world ripped apart around you? Has the center of your life ever just been completely destroyed? Empty, hopeless, sad, depressed, lonely. Today has officially been the worst day of my life. Life, as i knew it, has come to an abrupt and terrible halt. 1 1/2 years of my life, for what? A heart filled with pain, a head full of stress and a handful of anger held in my chest? I spent a year and a half building my life up, making it the best i could, and like a rug ripped out from under my feet, my life came crumbling down. Get over it? I cant. Start over? I cant. Theres nothing i can do but sit here and dwell upon my lost dreams, shattered, by the hammer of love. Memories are all that remain. Painful, beautiful, glorious memories. My only option is to move forward, but I'm pulled back, by the memories. Oh the memories. I can't go on, for the sake of sanity I must, but I can't. Theres is nothing to move on towards, everything I had is in the past. Everythings broken, torn, shattered. What can I do?
(Do not take this post as a suicide letter or anything like that, just a painful look back at what once was.)
(Do not take this post as a suicide letter or anything like that, just a painful look back at what once was.)
Monday, September 10, 2007
Book Synopsis- Artemis Fowl: The Lost Colony

Author: Eoin Colfer
Publication Date: 2006
Page Count: 385
Type: Fiction
Started On: September 5, 2007
Finished On: September 10, 2007
My Grade: A -
1. Why did I decide to read this book?
The Artemis Fowl series is simply magical. This book, although not my favorite, is another great novel by Eoin Colfer. The cover really drew me into this one, however. The silhouette of a man/creature bursting off the front cover is really an attention grabber. I got this book for Christmas and I'm just now getting to read it. My only regret is that I would've read it sooner.
2. Plot summary (avoiding major spoilers when possible!)
Artemis Fowl is a boy genius, he has written symphonies, constructed scientific theories, and is on his way to a Nobel Prize; a regular child prodigy. Oh, did I mention he has discovered a world of fairies, gnomes and dwarfs and has saved that world on two seperate occaisons? Maybe not your regular child prodigy... This time around, Artemis is needed to save a breed of fairies that were supposedly extinct... demons. Artemis must once again team up with his fairy friend, Holly Short, an ex-fairy police force operative to save the the fairy world again, only this time, he is getting into more than he bargained for. Artemis finds out he's not just trying to save a race, he's trying to stop someone from destroying that race at the same time. Someone just like him, a genius...and it's a female. Fighting peril and puberty, Artemis trys his best to save the demonkind, even at the cost of lives. The lives of thousands of demons, thousands of humans, and the lives of his dearest friends.
3. What is the setting, and why is it important to the novel?
The story takes place in various places throughout Europe, where Artemis has several houses. It the book will also take you on a journey through Taiwan, but I don't think it will be for sightseeing. Finally, the story will blow your mind with another dimension, a "Demonic" dimension. This is where Artemis will try to save the demonkind (obviously). Although it sounds like a vast array of random places, they all tie in very tightly to the main storyline.
4. Describe the main characters and what roles they play in the novel.
Artemis Fowl, a child prodigy, is the main character of the novel. He is a boy in his early teens, and just experiencing the troubles of puberty. He is small in stature with dark hair and piercing blue eyes. Other main characters include Butler (Artemis's bodyguard), Holly Short (a fairy soldier, and dear friend to Artemis), Minerva (another child genius), No.1 Imp, and Lance Abbot (leader of the demon pride). Other characters with key roles are Qwan (leader of the warlocks) and Billy Kong (a notorious thug).
5. What is/are the main conflict(s) in the novel?
There are several outstanding conflicts in this novel. The main conflict in the story would be Artemis attempting to save the demon race. Another would be Artemis's constant trouble with controlling his hormones. Another conflict is Artemis trying to handle himself while working with criminals. This proves to be an important part of the story.
6. Describe the climax of the novel.
Artemis, Holly Short, and Quan somehow have teleported themselves to the demon island. They aren't recieved quite as well as they would've like to have been. As soon as they land on the island, they are attacked by hundreds of blood thirsty demons. They know they need to get back home, but the only person who can get them there is Artemis, who is caught in a deadly battle with the demon leader, Lance Abbot. Artemis is the only chance of he and his friends making it home alive, but can he do it with 100 demons hot on his tail?
7. What is the significance in the book's title? Is the title appropriate or would I change it to something else?
The books title, Artemis Fowl: The Lost Colony, obviously is following the format of the other Artemis Fowl novels. The Lost Colony is very important to the main plot of the story, as that is the "world" he is trying to save. I believe the title is completely appropriate. I wouldn't change the title.
8. What is my opinion of the book? Why?
I really liked this book, it wasn't too long, but it wasn't too short. It stacks up equally with all the other Artemis Fowl novels. Although it follows the central theme of the other stories (Artemis saving the fairy world) it still managed to have all new plot twists. It also brought in a whole new view of Artemis, his struggles growing up. All in all, the book was very good.
Friday, September 7, 2007
Journals 9/4 - 9/7
DOL's
9/4
"Sally, whom did you see at Foxes Pizza last night?" Megan asked after algebra class.
9/5
By the time the Fourth of July parade ended, the light drizzle became a downpour, and few people remained on Main Street.
9/6
In my opinion, Twelve Angry Men is the more powerful play of the two I read last week in English class.
9/7
Tana loaned me a copy of Computer Facts, the magazine that published the article " Computer Graphics."
Journals
9/4
In honor (sort of) of the holiday: What is the worst kind of labor?
I believe that the worst type of labor is painting. I've done many types of labor through my years as a lawn care specialist, and I definately hate painting. It's so boring, especially if it's indoors.
9/5
Should Michael Vick be allowed back in the NFL?
I don't believe Michael Vick should ever be allowed back in the NFL. What he did is completely and utterly disgusting. he should be imprisoned for an extremely long time, forced to do UFC figthing, and never allowed to compete in a professional sports league again.
9/6
Which city/landmark in the "mainland" United States would you most like to visit?
I would really like to visit Indianapolis, Indiana. The main reason I would go there is to watch the Colts play. It would be an especially meaningful trip if they played the Steelers and stomped them.
9/7
Two weeks in: Respectfully grade the new principals.
Honestly, I don't know much about either of the new principals. From what i have seen of them, however, they seem to be very nice. Mr. Saturday seems a little overly nice though, but I can't really complain about that!
9/4
"Sally, whom did you see at Foxes Pizza last night?" Megan asked after algebra class.
9/5
By the time the Fourth of July parade ended, the light drizzle became a downpour, and few people remained on Main Street.
9/6
In my opinion, Twelve Angry Men is the more powerful play of the two I read last week in English class.
9/7
Tana loaned me a copy of Computer Facts, the magazine that published the article " Computer Graphics."
Journals
9/4
In honor (sort of) of the holiday: What is the worst kind of labor?
I believe that the worst type of labor is painting. I've done many types of labor through my years as a lawn care specialist, and I definately hate painting. It's so boring, especially if it's indoors.
9/5
Should Michael Vick be allowed back in the NFL?
I don't believe Michael Vick should ever be allowed back in the NFL. What he did is completely and utterly disgusting. he should be imprisoned for an extremely long time, forced to do UFC figthing, and never allowed to compete in a professional sports league again.
9/6
Which city/landmark in the "mainland" United States would you most like to visit?
I would really like to visit Indianapolis, Indiana. The main reason I would go there is to watch the Colts play. It would be an especially meaningful trip if they played the Steelers and stomped them.
9/7
Two weeks in: Respectfully grade the new principals.
Honestly, I don't know much about either of the new principals. From what i have seen of them, however, they seem to be very nice. Mr. Saturday seems a little overly nice though, but I can't really complain about that!
Wednesday, September 5, 2007
Book Synopsis: The Demonata: Demon Thief

Author: Darren Shan
Publication Date: June 2006
Page Count: 243
Type: Fiction
Started On: September 1, 2007
Finished On: September 4, 2007
My Grade: A
1. Why did I decided to read this book?
The main reason i started reading the Demonata book series is that I loved Darren Shan's previous series Cirque du Freak. After finishing all of the thrillers in the Cirque du Freak series, I thought I'd never again get to experience the pulse pounding world of Darren Shan's mind. Luckily, I stopped at a bookstore one fateful day, and found out Darren had begun publishing a new series, The Demonata. I bought the first 3 books immediately, with this being the 2nd book. I would've published a synopsis of the first book, however, I previously did in 8th grade.
2. Plot Summary (avoiding major spoilers when possible!)
Kernel Fleck has always been different. He sees lights. Multi-colored, transparent, geometric shapes that float innocently in the air for only him to see. All is well in Kernel's world, until a window opens. A window into a world of demons, death, and hell. Kernel's only brother, the one true friend he has, is stolen by a demon and taken back to the demon world, the Demonata. Kernel knows he must pursue the demon to save his brother, no matter how dangerous the journey may be. He must find the one who stole his brother, the Demon Thief. Once in the Demonata, Kernel finds that he's blessed with extraordinary powers, but, will they be enough to fight unthinkable terrors, defeat a demon master, and unmask the Demon Thief? Will Kernel be able to face the ghastly truth of the Demon Thief's identity?
3. What is the setting and why is it important to the novel?
The story takes place in a little village somewhere, it seems, in the midwest. A small peaceful town whose happiness is abruptly ended by the entrance of a demon. The story also transcends between the Demonata (the demon world), and our world. Time does not pass in the Demonata as it does in our world, which is a very significant aspect of Kernel's travels between the two worlds. The Demonata, where magic is thick in the air, is also very important for Kernel, who only needs a little assistance to tap into powers beyond his belief.
4. Describe the main characters and what roles they play in the novel.
Cornelius "Kernel" Fleck is the main character in the story. He is a young boy in his early teens, with shaved hair and a lean figure. He has always been different because he sees "lights", which has caused people to fear him, leaving him a lonely and depressed young man. His only true friend is his little brother, Art, a small baby of maybe a year who has a habit of biting anything that comes close to his face. Other main characters in the story are Beranabus (an ancient magician), Cadaver (a demon), and Lord Loss (a Demon Master, also featured in book 1).
5. What is/are the main conflict(s) in the novel?
The main conflict in the story is Kernel trying to retrieve his stolen brother Art from the demon world. Other conflicts in the story are Kernel trying to cope with magical powers he recieved upon entereing the Demonata. Kernel also is always trying to deal with his mentor in the demon world, Beranabus. Another serious conflict in the novel is the difference in time passing in the Demonata, and time passing in our world. Throw all that together and you have quite the confliction!
6. Describe the climax of the novel.
Kernel has finally tracked down the demon who stole his brother. However, the demon is under the safekeeping of a Demon Master, Lord Loss. To save his brother, Kernel must play a twisted game for Lord Loss's amusement. Kernel is thrown into a different reality (created by Lord Loss) and is told to track down the true thief of his brother, the Demon Thief. He is only given 3 chances, however, and if he names the wrong demon three times, his soul is Lord Loss's...forever.
7. What is the significance in the book's title? Is the title appropriate or would I change it to something else?
The book's title is what the whole book revolves around, Kernel trying to catch the Demon Thief who stole his brother. I think the title is very appropriate for the book. The title, Demon Thief, is actually quite catchy. One of the main reasons I even started reading the works of Darren Shan is the quality of his titles. They really draw you in.
8. What is my opinion of this book? Why (give specifics)?
I was quite pleased with this book. I didn't know if Darren could follow up the first book in the series with another heart pounder, but he definately rose above my expectations. I love how his books' plots are so twisty, taking you up and down an emotional roller coaster. How he can squeeze every emotion into 243 pages is truly marvelous. Which is why I awarded this book with my highly coveted, 5 star rating.
Friday, August 31, 2007
Journals 8/27 - 8/31
DOL's
8-28
Even though their parents objected, Captain Ron took her and her friend on a helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon.
8-30
Aunt Felicia said, "Golfing is more relaxing than swimming or jogging."
8-31
Mark's father is an engineer at the Ace Farm Equipment Co. ; his mother is an illustrator at Herrara Publications, Inc.
Journals
8-28
Will the new lunchline set-up be a success?
I thinkg the new lunchline will succeed. The only problem is that you have to walk all the way around the cafeteria. It just seems like it takes longer to get your lunch.
8-30
Beans or franks?
Beans or franks? Why complicate my brain with a question like that when I could have beans AND franks! Great...now I'm hungry...thanks Clark.
8-31
My most memorable summer adventure.
My most memorable adventure would have to be my first trip to the beach. I'll never forget how vast the ocean seemed. I'll also never forget how many times I puked on the way!
8-28
Even though their parents objected, Captain Ron took her and her friend on a helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon.
8-30
Aunt Felicia said, "Golfing is more relaxing than swimming or jogging."
8-31
Mark's father is an engineer at the Ace Farm Equipment Co. ; his mother is an illustrator at Herrara Publications, Inc.
Journals
8-28
Will the new lunchline set-up be a success?
I thinkg the new lunchline will succeed. The only problem is that you have to walk all the way around the cafeteria. It just seems like it takes longer to get your lunch.
8-30
Beans or franks?
Beans or franks? Why complicate my brain with a question like that when I could have beans AND franks! Great...now I'm hungry...thanks Clark.
8-31
My most memorable summer adventure.
My most memorable adventure would have to be my first trip to the beach. I'll never forget how vast the ocean seemed. I'll also never forget how many times I puked on the way!
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Here I am...On the road again...There I am, up on the stage...
I'm ready for another day off of school, even after we got that nice suprise of a day off yesterday. At least I have the football game tomorrow, a great chance to relieve alot of stress thats been on my mind. And believe me...it's been alot lately...
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