Even though we do not have required summer reading this year, I have already torn through two novels: one that I would not recommend, even though it used a great deal of asyndeton (lack of conjunctions) with the characters, and Brooklyn, the sweet novel that inspired the beloved film.
With AP Lit, the analysis of literature is at the forefront of each prose text: characterization, the relationships between characters in dialogue, physical movement, setting, narrator point of view, comparative techniques via the much beloved similes, metaphors, conceits (extended metaphors), motifs and symbols, gender roles, class roles, psychology, and many other literary elements that create the overall theme.
As you read this summer, pay attention to the characters and the conflicts. Notice how a character changes around other characters, how he or she develops or stagnates throughout the text, and what role the character plays in the overall plot and theme. Even when reading for fun, you can pull these details together to understand a text at a higher level.
I will be bonus blogging once a week with background, tips, and hints for AP Lit. I can't wait to hear about your readings this summer - especially since one of the writing prompts in class requires you to choose a novel of literary merit and write about it.
And on a personal aside, after three weeks of a torn pool liner with one foot of water, a thousand tadpoles, and moping of the highest level, the new pool liner is in and I can swim in a half hour! Finally, reading on the pool steps - my favorite place to tan, read, and relax.
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