"Dirty Mouth, clean it up with Orbit gum"

I think that obscene language can be ok if the author uses it effectively. Maybe the author writes a story with a certain character using obscene language. This could possibly allow the reader to understand the personality of the character more accurately. If a book uses obscene language a ridiculous amount, I think it can be distracting from the actual plot.

April 24th-Kite Fighting

Obviously kite fighting is an important part of Afghanistan society. I think that the author of The Kite Runner included kite running in the novel because it represents a bond between Amir and his Father. Even in the video, they discuss how the families have different recipes for the shards of glass that are passed down from father to son. I would assume that kite fighting in Afghanistan would be analogous to baseball in America. The Afghanistan people must have been very upset when the Taliban banned kite fighting.

The soldier stumbled down the bank of the river, strategically looking for an area of cover. Meanwhile, the soldier's two comrades fire back at the Taliban who are well up the mountain. The lengthy and arduous trek up this valley has posed many life threatening obstacles. The ambushes are becoming more common and he group has become uncertain whether to continue this particular mission. Hopefully, a radio call will arrive with news about helicopter assistance.

Walk the Line

Many books contain powerful and even disturbing scenes. Authors do this because they want the reader to feel the emotions associated with these events, so that they may more accurately connect with the characters. I think it is debatable whether or not they are necessary. Some authors may or may not believe that shocking events are needed in order to grab the attention of readers.

To Atone or Not to Atone

I think that we all make mistakes that we will regret. Atonement for these mistakes is usually possible unless you do something that is extremely harmful to other people. While I cannot recall a very specific event, when I do something wrong, generally I try to apologize (if necessary), and do something friendly to make up for that mistake.

Decisions...Decisions

Every time I make important decisions I really try to analyze what the outcomes will be for each decision. My next important decision will be to decide what college to go to. While this will primarily affect me, I will look for advice from my parents. I have also spoken with and taken advice from people who have attended the various specific colleges.

A Walk in the Woods - The Title - Chapter 20 - #18

"I had discovered an America that millions of people scarcely know exists. I made a friend. I came home... So Katz was right after all, and I don't care what anybody says. We hiked the Appalachian Trail."(pg 274)

These are the last words of A Walk In the Woods, and perhaps, the most entertaining and moving. Prior to this, Bryson describes the many beautiful aspects of the woods that few people even know are right outside their door. Having had a similar experience in New Mexico, I can definitely relate to how he feels. When I walk in the woods, I do not simply see trees, but I have this feeling of adventure and curiosity, and most of all, appreciation. I think A Walk In The Woods is a fabulous title because it draws attention to the fact that people can have a similar experience by simply walking in the woods. I would strongly recommend this book to anyone remotely interested in the outdoors of America.