Final thoughts/Recommendations

At the outset of this book I was worried that it was going to be too absurd for an adult. I was wrong. It was a cute story, with a wonderful message for anyone willing to listen. Knowing that this book was written for 4th-5th graders, I believe that it's a wonderful addition to any classroom library or as a mandatory class read.
There are many emotions contained within the pages and several underlying messages/morals to be explored. It would make an endearing, thoughtful, inciteful and appealing book to delved into for comprehension, context, content and enjoyment.
I would definately recommend this book for individual or class reading.

by Skidkid

Chapters 15-21 Connections

I found myself approaching tears watching Louis undergo his maturation process, much as human children do. I experiencing pride as Louis accomplished so many things, while culture and lifestyles were stacked against him, much like myself overcoming many obstacles to make myself become successful in this life and be a good role model for my kids. I hope that my children grow up to be as honest and honorable, hard working and true to himself as Louis and Sam.

by Skidkid

Chapters 15-21 Characters

Here's the thread for analysis of any new characters.

by Skidkid

Chapters 15-21 Summary

Here's the thread.

by Skidkid

Chapters 15-21 Word Finder

crepuscular: in zoology it means active in the twilight hours


by skidkid

Chapters 15-21 Discussion

Let's discuss the remaining chapters of the book and the book in its entirety.

1.  What was the point of Louis' going to Philadelphia? Who did he find there right before Christmas?
2. What dilemma did Serena's arrival bring and how was it solved?
3. What did Sam discover about himself, due to bargaining on Louis and Serena's behalf?
4. Did the cob's debt to the music store get paid?
5. How did Louis and Serena spend the rest of their lives?
6. Who do you think experienced the greatest personal growth: Sam, Louis or the Cob?  Tell us why?
7. What was the main point that you got out of the story/what do you think the underlying message was, if any?

by Skidkid

Chapters 8-14 Summary

Just opening the thread.

Chapters 1-7 Summary

Just starting the Label/thread for our summarizer to post under.

Chapters 8-14: Characters

CHARACTERS
-Sam Beaver is eleven-year-old boy who lives in Montana with his parents in Bar Nothing Ranch. He enjoys reading about bird and writing in his journal. Sam is Louis right hand man.
-The Trumpeter Swans are Louis Parents'
Louis Father- (Cob) gives Louis a present
Female swan is a pen but in the book, she is called wife and Louis Mother- shows Louis that she cares about him and keep Cob is line.
-Louis is a swan who was born with a speech defects and is not able to communicate with his family because of his lack of voice. He learned to read and write in school to be able to communicate with his family, but failed. His family does not know how to read. Louis at this time in the chapters is 18 month old. Louis reading skills help him learn to play the trumpet.

SECONDARY CHARACTERS
Mr. and Mrs. Beaver- Sam's parents
Serna- a female swan who Louis is in love with.
Mr. Brickle- director of the camp Kookooskoos
Applegate Skinner - a boy at the camp who hates birds and is constantly being pick on by the campers because of his name.
Boatman- is the owner of Swan Boat in Boston, the capital of Massachusetts
Skunk- is an animal who was snooping around at the camp for food.

Chapters 8-14: Connections

     I found myself feeling proud of the cob for the extent that he goes to for his son. I can totally connect with the cob's feeling of need to to do whatever is within his power to help his son. I would and have given everything that I've had to benefit my kids. I feel so defeated when I'm unable to help them accomplish things or experience things.
     Louis' feeling of excitement at going to camp is dead on with what I witnessed in my kids when they first went to camp (thanks to the kindness of others and their contributions). I cried when I looked at their faces and exhuberance when they got they got their first looks at the wonderous place that they would be staying. I felt so proud and scared for them.

by skidkid