Summer Reading List 2014: 6th Grade Literature A Rationale for Summer Reading • To generate interest and pleasure in reading that enriches the educational experience • To prepare for thoughtful discussion and writing beginning the first day of class • To encourage a lifelong love of reading Texts Required Text Patched Together Brennan Manning Willie Juan, a beloved character, journeys through three distinct seasons of life—morning, noon, and night—and creates unforgettable moments for all who embark on the journey with him.

Note: Due to availability issues, each student can check out a copy of Patched Together in the middle school office and return it to the teacher on the first day of school in August.

Choice Text (Select ONE book that you have not read previously.) • Incredible Journey Sheila Burnford

Three pets, a cat and two dogs, lose and then find their home on a remarkable journey.

• Where the Lilies Bloom Bill Cleaver After their father’s death, a family of Appalachian children face many challenges to stay together.

• Iqbal Francesco D’Adamo When young Iqbal is sold into slavery at a carpet factory, his arrival changes everything for the overworked and abused children there.

• Cheaper by the Dozen Frank B. Gilbreth and Ernestine Gilbreth Carey A family with a dozen children experiences hilarious day-to-day moments as they contend with challenges that come in multiples of twelve.

• Old Yeller Fred Gipson One boy and a big yellow mongrel are brought together to share life and adventure.

• Number the Stars Lois Lowry A young girl is caught up in captivating events surrounding the rescue of Jews.

• Rascal Sterling North A boy finds his best friend and partner in a raccoon.

• Hatchet Gary Paulsen

Following a plane crash, a boy must learn to survive on his own.

• The River Gary Paulsen This sequel to Hatchet can be read only after reading Hatchet.

• Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry Mildred Taylor A black family with warm ties to each other and to their land defy racism during the Depression.

General Instructions/Evaluations As you read each book, take notes on main characters, main events, and parts of the book that made the greatest impression on you. During the first weeks of school, there will be an in-class test over each book.

Please remember the B.A. English Department policy: Do not consult internet novel guides, any

other electronic or printed summaries, or movies; read the texts themselves.