In Part I of the dystopian literature theme we talked about A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle. A used book store owner recommended that I read The Giver by Lois Lowry, and after doing so I bought the other books in the quartet - Gathering Blue, Messenger and Son. As an active reader, The Giver disturbed me more so than other dystopian novels. This one of the most complete book summaries I have done and by reading the summary for each of the books in The Giver quartet you do not have to read the books. The Giver by Lois Lowry The Giver by Lois Lowry is another dystopian novel. While I was reading the book, I was reminded of … [Read more...]
Virtual Literary World Tour Arrives in the US
May 16, 2013 by 1 Comment
The Virtual Literary World Tour arrives in the US in a place called Dystopia. I wrote yesterday's blog post in preparation for today's. I have read just under 25 children's and young adults' book for the Virtual Literary World Tour, and I can honestly say that it has been an enriching experience. Next week we will start the official country Tour, and the starting point is in Canada where I reside. If you have been reading this blog for a while, you will know why I am doing the Virtual Literary World Tour, but why should you really care about books by authors from around the world? You should care because you will not only learn about other … [Read more...]
Dystopia: Why Are People So Passionate About Dystopian Literature?
May 15, 2013 by Leave a Comment
Definition of Dystopia According to About.com, “A dystopia is society that is broken down, unpleasant, or in an oppressed or terrorized state. Unlike a utopia, a perfect world, dystopias are grim, dark, and hopeless. They reveal society’s greatest fears. Totalitarian governments rule and the needs and wants of individuals become subordinate to the state. In most dystopian novels, a tyrannical government is trying to suppress and control its citizens by taking away their individuality…. Dystopian governments also ban activities that encourage individual thinking.” Utopia vs. Dystopia A utopia is an ideal place. “An imaginary … [Read more...]
Interview With Natalie Panek, Mechanical & Aerospace Engineer
May 14, 2013 by Leave a Comment
Mini Interview With Natalie Panek and Bout of Books read-a-thon At a Girl Geeks Toronto event I conducted an impromptu interview with Natalie Panek, a mechanical and aerospace engineer. Avil Beckford: Tell me about yourself. Natalie Panek: I am an adventurer, next generation space explorer, and advocate for women in science and technology. Avil Beckford: Please share your thoughts on mentors and the role they play in your life. Natalie Panek: Mentors are like powerful tools. I was always on the lookout for female mentors when I realized that I had a lot of experience so I could be a mentor to inspire the next generation to … [Read more...]
The Hero’s Journey and Your Career Journey
May 13, 2013 by Leave a Comment
There are several stages to the hero’s journey (Refer to Joseph Campbell’s book, The Hero with a Thousand Faces (The Collected Works of Joseph Campbell)). The hero is called to go on a quest – an adventure - which he can refuse to go on. But more often than not, he reluctantly goes on the quest. While on the hero's journey, he encounters many difficulties and challenges that push him to the limits. A mentor may assist him in overcoming the difficulties and challenges by advising him on what path to take. The experience transforms him. The hero can return home and teach others what he has learned, or he can be like Siddhartha Gautama … [Read more...]
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