Drew S, I am the Messenger
Hi Leslie,
This book is in the Drew Hall of Fame. No doubt about it.
I’m honestly puzzled on how to explain all the feelings and lessons expressed in this book. Marcus had a perfect balance of serious topics with things people go through everyday. For example in the beginning of the book you are hit with a serious situation on Ed’s first message when he has to deal with an abusive husband beating and raping his wife. This is a very hard topic to swallow so early in the book, and questioned my thoughts on the mood of the story considering the consistent humor established from the very first page. Soonly after I was warmly greeted with the indroduction of Sophie. A young 15 year old girl beautiful, but is going through life not knowing it mostly because of her insecurity and shyness. Although most “messages” were heart warmers it still was a balance because of the impact of the heart droppers. Needless to say it was an emotional experience.
Favorite character has to be Ed. He was a nothing as he put it. No achievments. No life time goals. He was just a cab driver who liked playing cards with his friends, and being hoplessley in love with Audrey. A fellow cab driver with the same plans as Ed. None. He becomes a hero or saint to people as he completes more messages. He did what I hope to do and wonder how I’ll do it. Leave my mark on the world, be someone who’s remembered, be someone people are proud to know. I just hope I have an easier time doing it. What do you think Ed’s mark was?
I felt connected with each character Ed met on his journey. Every event was a peice to the puzzle. Everything had a purpose. I hope I gave you at least a little slice of this book. You will soon realize why it is so hard to explain.
Hope you enjoy the read and please comment when you start it I’m loaded with questions.
Drew S
2 Replies to “Drew S, I am the Messenger”
Hi Drew,
This book sounds incredible! I can’t wait to read it. I’m currently in the middle of Wonder but I Am the Messenger is next on the to-do-list for me. I’m expecting to crack open I Am the Messenger at the end of next week. You’ve definitely built the suspense of the book and I was immediately drawn to the serious situation you described since I love books with dark topics such as I Am the Messenger. Really looking forward to answering your questions.
Wonder is great so far. The author does a great job of illustrating the obstacles middle school students face with their desire to do the right thing and the desire to fit in with the popular crowd. It’s a concept a lot of middle school (and high school) students can easily relate to. Not only that, but it’s a unique story in itself because of Auggie’s (the main character) situation. For the first time since he was born, Auggie will attend public school. He was homeschooled all his life because of his facial deformity and the story entails his experience in the public school system. I can’t help but feel totally empathetic throughout this book! No one should be subjected to the bullying Auggie faces. However, as a future teacher it prompts me to think of what I can do to make school a safe and enjoyable place for a student like Auggie.
Although Auggie is subjected to bullying he also meets some wonderful students who see past his face and befriend him for the amazing and awesomely funny person he is. My favorite friend of his would have to be Summer. Right from the beginning she makes an effort to get to know Auggie even though her friends pressure her to leave him be, since he couldn’t possibly be cool to hang out with. Summer is a rare student who has yet to succumb to peer pressure by acting on what she knows to be right.
If I ever taught middle school English, this is definitely a book I would want (or possibly require) my students to read because it teaches so much about understanding what is beneath the surface of a human being. Hope you get a chance to read it! I’ll be sure to get back to you on I Am the Messenger soon!
Leslie :)
I am so glad you’re reading Wonder! I remember reading it early in the school year. It was great and had an amazing message. I’m so glad you’re going to read I am the Messenger as well. I think you’ll find it to be one of your favorites.
As for me I just got done reading Butter. I loved this book so much. I loved the mixture of humor and tragedy. I wouldn’t think I would ever read a book with those two elements, but the author did it perfectly.
I loved the ending of this book as well. Finally getting to know Butter’s name was a plus, but it was nice to know he was getting on the right track towards a healthy life style. Even though we don’t know exactly what path Marshall is going to take. It seems like he has various options to choose from.
My favorite character in this book has become a tie with Anna and the Professor. Anna with her ability to forgive Butter and start fresh with him, and the Professor for sticking with him through everything and beyond. Another part that warmed the heart was seeing Marshall and his dad finally connect after such a long period time of neglect. The mother of course always was a sweetie and stood by Butter, so I wasn’t surprised to see Marshall’s family become one.
Sad to say that was my last book on my list, but I am starting to read Ready Player One outside of the project and was wondering if you’ve ever read it. I am a huge gamer so I’m guessing I’ll love this book.
Wonder will make you cry by the way…. at least I did.
Drew S