South High English --- South High Clock Tower

Contemporary Literature

Book Choices  -- Fall Semester 2003

Ms. Rinaldi
Room 204
(303)698-6100 ext. 21411

jennifer_rinaldi@dpsk12.org

BOOK CHOICES FOR CONTEMPORARY LITERATURE

The Alienist Caleb Carr  (Mystery).  

New York, turn-of-the-century, serial killer.  Premise is that it is the first  time psychology is used to solve a crime.  

House of Sand and Fog  Andre Dubus III (Drama)

Modern Tragedy with two factions warring over the possession of a house.

Daisy Fay and the Miracle Man Fannie Flagg  (Comedy).  

Coming-of-age of wacky southern girl.  In the form of her diary from 14 to 18.

Plainsong  Kent Haruf  (Drama)

Odd people thrown together learn to find joy in life. Beautiful.

The Love Hunter Jon Hassler (Drama) 

Powerful book about a dying man’s efforts to have his best friend take care of his wife when he’s gone.

Last Days of Summer Stephen Kluger (Comedy).  

A series of letters between a Brookyn Dodger and a Jewish kid living in Brooklyn in the 1950’s. Very funny.

Confessions of an Ugly Stepsister Gregory Maguire  (historical/fantasy)  

A twist on Cinderella revealing the "real" story behind the fairy-tale.

My Year of Meats  Ruth Ozeki (Drama/Social)

Fascinating story about parallel lives of American and Japanese women centered around the American meat industry.

Bel Canto Ann Patchett (Drama)  

Beautiful book about a group of people being held hostage at a birthday party by terrorists.  Great characters.

One True Thing Anna Quindlen  (Drama)  

Incredibly powerful book  based on the author's life and her experience taking care of her ailing mother.  Excellent story with strong characters.

DaVinci Code Dan Brown (Thriller) 

Symbologist figures out links to murder with a huge, centuries old conspiracy that involves the Church, Jesus, and Leonardo DaVinci.  Fabulous read.

Ms. Rinaldi's Syllabus Page

South English Faculty

South Reading and Writing Center


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