What do you think?
Rate this book
Penguin Readers Level 4: "About a Boy"
Libro usado en buenas condiciones, por su antiguedad podria contener señales normales de uso
80 pages, Paperback
Published January 1, 2003
About the author
Nick Hornby
138 books10.3k followersNicholas Peter John Hornby is an English writer and lyricist. He is best known for his memoir Fever Pitch (1992) and novels High Fidelity and About a Boy, all of which were adapted into feature films. Hornby's work frequently touches upon music, sport, and the aimless and obsessive natures of his protagonists. His books have sold more than 5 million copies worldwide as of 2018. In a 2004 poll for the BBC, Hornby was named the 29th most influential person in British culture. He has received two Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay nominations for An Education (2009), and Brooklyn (2015).
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
January 2, 2016
It's the story of a teenager boy who can't find peace neither at home nor school, then he meet a 36 years old guy and the lives of both change . It's sad how divorce or bad relationship between parents ruins the lives of children , and affect their future and personalities .. and it's awful how an adult men (or even wemen) those choose to live alone away from families and make a relationships just for a short time with no love , no sacrifice , end up with them feeling lonely and have no one to share happy and bad times with .. A nice novel , with nice ideas , loved it
“There had been times when he knew, somewhere in him, that he would get used to it, whatever it was, because he had learnt that some hard things became softer after a very little while.”
“There had been times when he knew, somewhere in him, that he would get used to it, whatever it was, because he had learnt that some hard things became softer after a very little while.”
November 4, 2013
10/21
chapter1-4
70min
7words: rich alone boy isolate SPAT suicide break
Q: If a relationship with a woman became complicated, Will who is a main character of this book ended it. If a relationship with your girlfriend or boyfriend became complicated, how would you solve it?
A: I have never had a complicated relationship with women, so I cannot imagine. However, when I broke up before girlfriend, it was a little troublesome to break up with her. Therefore, I think we have to be careful when we make a girlfriend or boyfriend. A problem between lovers sometimes leads to serious crimes.
I enjoyed a story about love affair last month. This book is not about a love affair. However, this book is about male-female relationships. I really enjoyed reading this book. I like to read horror or books about male-female relationships. It is because I have never experienced such situations. I have never seen ghosts. I have never had a complicated relationship with a woman. That is why I can enjoy "imagination" by reading these kind of books. You may think Harry Potter or other fantasy books are same, why you cannot enjoy them? I think horror and make-female stories are close to us. Harry Potter is completely fictional story. We cannot use magics. We cannot fight with monsters. However, in case of horror or make-female relationships, it may happen to us. That is why I prefer reading horror and male-female relationships stories. So, I could enjoy this book a lot.
10/29
Chapter5-8
67min
7words: bully trainer stolen problem friends Christmas love
Q: How will you spend this Christmas?
A: I want to spend Christmas with girlfriend. However, there is a serious problem to achieve this plan. The problem is that I do not have girlfriend. I do not have any plan on Christmas yet.
In chapter6, Marcus made friends. Good job, Marcus. Moreover, he falling in love with Ellie. I hope he will be Ellie's boyfriend.
11/4
Chapter9-11
75min
7words: suicide trip train death crime grow test
Q: If your favorite singer, actor or comedian committed suicide, how would you feel?
A. Really sad. I would wonder why he/she did it. There are a lot of people who cannot live even if they really want to live. That is why suicide must not be allowed, I think. People have to live, and people have to help people who are suffering.
I liked last scene. Will tested Marcus. Marcus sang a song suddenly in everywhere, and many people laughed at this. In the last scene of this book, old Marcus refused Will. It means that Marcus grew up. Will was sure Marcus grew up, and could spend good time at his school with his friends. I think both Will and Marcus grew up.
chapter1-4
70min
7words: rich alone boy isolate SPAT suicide break
Q: If a relationship with a woman became complicated, Will who is a main character of this book ended it. If a relationship with your girlfriend or boyfriend became complicated, how would you solve it?
A: I have never had a complicated relationship with women, so I cannot imagine. However, when I broke up before girlfriend, it was a little troublesome to break up with her. Therefore, I think we have to be careful when we make a girlfriend or boyfriend. A problem between lovers sometimes leads to serious crimes.
I enjoyed a story about love affair last month. This book is not about a love affair. However, this book is about male-female relationships. I really enjoyed reading this book. I like to read horror or books about male-female relationships. It is because I have never experienced such situations. I have never seen ghosts. I have never had a complicated relationship with a woman. That is why I can enjoy "imagination" by reading these kind of books. You may think Harry Potter or other fantasy books are same, why you cannot enjoy them? I think horror and make-female stories are close to us. Harry Potter is completely fictional story. We cannot use magics. We cannot fight with monsters. However, in case of horror or make-female relationships, it may happen to us. That is why I prefer reading horror and male-female relationships stories. So, I could enjoy this book a lot.
10/29
Chapter5-8
67min
7words: bully trainer stolen problem friends Christmas love
Q: How will you spend this Christmas?
A: I want to spend Christmas with girlfriend. However, there is a serious problem to achieve this plan. The problem is that I do not have girlfriend. I do not have any plan on Christmas yet.
In chapter6, Marcus made friends. Good job, Marcus. Moreover, he falling in love with Ellie. I hope he will be Ellie's boyfriend.
11/4
Chapter9-11
75min
7words: suicide trip train death crime grow test
Q: If your favorite singer, actor or comedian committed suicide, how would you feel?
A. Really sad. I would wonder why he/she did it. There are a lot of people who cannot live even if they really want to live. That is why suicide must not be allowed, I think. People have to live, and people have to help people who are suffering.
I liked last scene. Will tested Marcus. Marcus sang a song suddenly in everywhere, and many people laughed at this. In the last scene of this book, old Marcus refused Will. It means that Marcus grew up. Will was sure Marcus grew up, and could spend good time at his school with his friends. I think both Will and Marcus grew up.
December 11, 2012
11/20＝15min, 11/21＝20min, 11/23＝15min,11/26＝15min
Seven words: boy- single- cry- man- friend- responsibility - marriage
Discussion Question
Q1:Will does not want to get married because he does not want someone to visit his world. Do you want to get married? Why or why not?
A1:Yes. Raising a child is not easy. People have to have responsibilities for a child. But having my family and a child must be happiness in my life.
Q2: Will have a lot of money because his father was a famous singer. So, he does not work. Would you do or not a job if you had enough money for your life?
A2: yes. I want to have a job. Doing nothing is really boring. If you have a job, you may have fun and devote yourself to a job.
Comments:
This is good story. I have not finished reading yet. I am looking forward to what happens next.
11/29＝20min, 11/30＝15min, 12/1＝15min, 12/2＝30min
Seven words: bully- steal- girls- Christmas- love- help - suicide
Discussion Questions
Q1:Will lied about Ned, so Fiona and Suzzie was really angry. If you are lied by someone, how do you feel?
A1: It depends on degree of the lie. But, I will feel uncomfortable if the lie is serious.
Q2: Will likes the musicians. Do you like music? And what kind of music is?
A2: I like J-POP music. I often listen to it. But, I sometimes listen to classical music when I want to feel relax.
Comments: I like the relationship between Will and Marcus. They are friends and help each other. I am interested in the book like this. There is a human drama.
Time: 12/5＝15min, 12/6＝15min, 12/7＝20min, 12/8=15min, Total＝65min
Seven words: train- dad- dead- picture- break- police- sing
Discussion Question
Q1: Marcus and Ellie found the picture of their favorite musician in the music store. Have you ever seen picture of your favorite musician in music shop or anywhere? Then, How do you feel?
A1: Yes. Actually, I like Yuzu. They are popular duo in Japan.I am glad if I find the picture somewhere. I will be proud of them.
Q2: Marcus seemed older at the last of the story. So he hesitated to sing. If you are asked to sing, can you do that?
A2:No. I will hesitate like Marcus because I feel nervous. However, when I go to Karaoke, I can sing.
Comments:
I have finished reading. Finally, Marcus changed.His clothes and hair became cool. Moreover, he seemed older. So his mother got better. It is a good ending.
November 9, 2013
Penguin Readers Level 4
10/19 10min
10/20 25min
10/21 40min
Boy-Man-Relationship-Single-Simple-Life-Help
Q. Will, the main character of this story, wants to live simple life.
What do you think about him?
Do you want to live simple life?
Or complicated life?
A. I agree with Will. Of course everyone wants no problem in his/her life, I think.
But without any troubles in our life, I think it would be boring and there would be no memory in our heart.
I think we can grow up through a lot of difficulties. So i want to live complicated life.
This story is about people's relationship.
At first, Will wanted to simple life, so he avoided complicated things, for example, he finished the relationship with his girlfriend when a trouble happened.
But one day, he met Marcus and his mum, and he changed little by little.
So I thought this story was very interesting!!!
10/26 40min
10/27 40min
Man-Boy-Relationship-Family-Pretend-Help-Love
Q. Until when did you believe that Santa existed??
A. Maybe I believed it until I was 8 years old. In my case, every year, I wrote a letter to Santa. And in the morning of 25th, a letter from Santa and a present were left. However, I found Santa was my parents although I don't know why.:-p
I finished reading until the end of chapter 8.
In last class, we watched the movie, so I want to watch it again!
I guess finally, Will and Marcus became a family!! And hope it!!
11/1 15min
11/40 60min
Family-Involved-New-Relationship-Friends-Trouble-Grow up
Q. In the story, Ellie is crazy about Kurt Cobain. How about you? What are you crazy about??
A. Like Ellie, I am also crazy about a music group. It is called Kanjani-eight and the group belongs to Johnny&Associates. Inc. There are seven members and they are all men. They are from Kansai area, so they are very funny and always make me powerful!!
Finally, I finished reading this book.
I thought there are various kinds of relationships in the world. Actually, Will and Marcus's mother didn't get married, but Will and Marcus are friends. I think it's enough. In case of Will, he changed thanks to Rachel and he wants to be a part of her life.
This story was easy to understand, so I wanna watch the movie next time:-)
10/19 10min
10/20 25min
10/21 40min
Boy-Man-Relationship-Single-Simple-Life-Help
Q. Will, the main character of this story, wants to live simple life.
What do you think about him?
Do you want to live simple life?
Or complicated life?
A. I agree with Will. Of course everyone wants no problem in his/her life, I think.
But without any troubles in our life, I think it would be boring and there would be no memory in our heart.
I think we can grow up through a lot of difficulties. So i want to live complicated life.
This story is about people's relationship.
At first, Will wanted to simple life, so he avoided complicated things, for example, he finished the relationship with his girlfriend when a trouble happened.
But one day, he met Marcus and his mum, and he changed little by little.
So I thought this story was very interesting!!!
10/26 40min
10/27 40min
Man-Boy-Relationship-Family-Pretend-Help-Love
Q. Until when did you believe that Santa existed??
A. Maybe I believed it until I was 8 years old. In my case, every year, I wrote a letter to Santa. And in the morning of 25th, a letter from Santa and a present were left. However, I found Santa was my parents although I don't know why.:-p
I finished reading until the end of chapter 8.
In last class, we watched the movie, so I want to watch it again!
I guess finally, Will and Marcus became a family!! And hope it!!
11/1 15min
11/40 60min
Family-Involved-New-Relationship-Friends-Trouble-Grow up
Q. In the story, Ellie is crazy about Kurt Cobain. How about you? What are you crazy about??
A. Like Ellie, I am also crazy about a music group. It is called Kanjani-eight and the group belongs to Johnny&Associates. Inc. There are seven members and they are all men. They are from Kansai area, so they are very funny and always make me powerful!!
Finally, I finished reading this book.
I thought there are various kinds of relationships in the world. Actually, Will and Marcus's mother didn't get married, but Will and Marcus are friends. I think it's enough. In case of Will, he changed thanks to Rachel and he wants to be a part of her life.
This story was easy to understand, so I wanna watch the movie next time:-)
December 11, 2012
Time 150 minutes
7-word summary
lazy single-mother burry picnic suicide
help visit
Discussion1
Do you want to live alone? Why or why not?
My answer →I want to live with my family because I can feel pleasure when I talk with people. I want to talk when I eat meals, watch TV,and play sports.
Discussion2
If you are rich, do you want to work? Why or why not?
Although Will thought jobs are earning money, I think that jobs make us happy and feel worth of life. I want to work even if I am rich.
Comment.
I thought Will is a lazy man because he didn't try to find a job, and just live with his father's royalties. However, he is very kind. He tried to help Marcus and Fiona. I like his kindness. I read chapter 1 to 4, in the last of chapter4, Will tried to return to live alone. I am looking foreword to reading next chapter.
Time 80 minutes
7 word summary
1 change 2 angry 3 stolen 4 pretend 5 meet 6 crazy 7 depression
Discussion1
If you were Will, what do you change Marcus?
My answer →If I was Will, I would not change appear of Marcus. I would tell Marcus that he makes the bullies stop bullying.
Discussion2
How will you spend 2012 Christmas?
My answer →I will spend 2012 Christmas to work at sports building. If I get new lover, I would change my plan!
Comment.
Marcus didn't care about Will when Will was in trouble. I thought love is bigger than friendship.
Time 50 minutes
7-word summary
father train death break police change grow
Discussion1
Have you ever being taken to somewhere by special cars like a police car or ambulance?
My answer →I have ever being taken to a hospital by a ambulance when I was in traffic accident.
Discussion2
Have you ever broken your bones? And which bones?
My answer →I have never broken my bones. I won't broke my bones for ever.
Comment.
I think relationship made Fiona, Marcus, and Will grow up. This story has many characters, all of them effect the three characters. This book told me how relationship is important. Anyway, I enjoyed this book.
7-word summary
lazy single-mother burry picnic suicide
help visit
Discussion1
Do you want to live alone? Why or why not?
My answer →I want to live with my family because I can feel pleasure when I talk with people. I want to talk when I eat meals, watch TV,and play sports.
Discussion2
If you are rich, do you want to work? Why or why not?
Although Will thought jobs are earning money, I think that jobs make us happy and feel worth of life. I want to work even if I am rich.
Comment.
I thought Will is a lazy man because he didn't try to find a job, and just live with his father's royalties. However, he is very kind. He tried to help Marcus and Fiona. I like his kindness. I read chapter 1 to 4, in the last of chapter4, Will tried to return to live alone. I am looking foreword to reading next chapter.
Time 80 minutes
7 word summary
1 change 2 angry 3 stolen 4 pretend 5 meet 6 crazy 7 depression
Discussion1
If you were Will, what do you change Marcus?
My answer →If I was Will, I would not change appear of Marcus. I would tell Marcus that he makes the bullies stop bullying.
Discussion2
How will you spend 2012 Christmas?
My answer →I will spend 2012 Christmas to work at sports building. If I get new lover, I would change my plan!
Comment.
Marcus didn't care about Will when Will was in trouble. I thought love is bigger than friendship.
Time 50 minutes
7-word summary
father train death break police change grow
Discussion1
Have you ever being taken to somewhere by special cars like a police car or ambulance?
My answer →I have ever being taken to a hospital by a ambulance when I was in traffic accident.
Discussion2
Have you ever broken your bones? And which bones?
My answer →I have never broken my bones. I won't broke my bones for ever.
Comment.
I think relationship made Fiona, Marcus, and Will grow up. This story has many characters, all of them effect the three characters. This book told me how relationship is important. Anyway, I enjoyed this book.
December 11, 2012
80min to read
7words
Confession,Depression,Trip,Dead,Break,gather,Song
Q1, In the story, Ellie became crazy when Kurt passes away. Do you have something or someone which make you crazy, if you lost it.
Answer, If I lost my family, I am going to be crazy. Perhaps more than Ellie.
Q2, Will felt that Rachel changed his life. Do you have someone or something that make you change?
Answer, Miyake Hisayuki who is a great writer in Japan. He passed away last month.When he visit Yasukuni shrine, he told us with crying why we are spending our life peacefully now. I watched on tv and it made me change.
70min to read
7words
Change,trainers,stolen,separate,cooperation,encounter ,horrible
q1, Will gave Marcus a new trainers to change his situation. Do you think it's good idea or bad why?
A1,No, I don't think so. It is very clear that Marcus are going to be stolen his new trainers.
Q2,Marcus said Ellie makes him happy. Do you have something or someone that makes you happy?
A2, yes I have. When I took a photography on my DSLR, I feel very awesome.
130min to read
7words
Will,rich,SPAT,Suzie,Marcus,weird,help
Discussion questions
Q1, In this story, Marcus was influenced by his mum. Do you have a parson who influence on you ?
A: I influenced by my father. He always say to me "Do your best".
Q2, Will didn't want to break his world from anyone. Do you have your important world.?
A: yes! When I take a picture of stars in my town, I want to do it alone. It's my world.
7words
Confession,Depression,Trip,Dead,Break,gather,Song
Q1, In the story, Ellie became crazy when Kurt passes away. Do you have something or someone which make you crazy, if you lost it.
Answer, If I lost my family, I am going to be crazy. Perhaps more than Ellie.
Q2, Will felt that Rachel changed his life. Do you have someone or something that make you change?
Answer, Miyake Hisayuki who is a great writer in Japan. He passed away last month.When he visit Yasukuni shrine, he told us with crying why we are spending our life peacefully now. I watched on tv and it made me change.
70min to read
7words
Change,trainers,stolen,separate,cooperation,encounter ,horrible
q1, Will gave Marcus a new trainers to change his situation. Do you think it's good idea or bad why?
A1,No, I don't think so. It is very clear that Marcus are going to be stolen his new trainers.
Q2,Marcus said Ellie makes him happy. Do you have something or someone that makes you happy?
A2, yes I have. When I took a photography on my DSLR, I feel very awesome.
130min to read
7words
Will,rich,SPAT,Suzie,Marcus,weird,help
Discussion questions
Q1, In this story, Marcus was influenced by his mum. Do you have a parson who influence on you ?
A: I influenced by my father. He always say to me "Do your best".
Q2, Will didn't want to break his world from anyone. Do you have your important world.?
A: yes! When I take a picture of stars in my town, I want to do it alone. It's my world.
November 5, 2013
About a boy
Penguin Readers YL 4
10/4 40 minutes 10/ 8 40 minutes
7 words summary
1 Will 2 Met 3 Marcus 4 Single Mother 5 suicide 6 Help 7 Attach
Discussion Question
Do you have any experiences which you were helped by someone exclude your family?
My Answer
I was helped by a woman when I was lost in Nagoya. She was very kind!
10/8-10/14. 80minutes
1 Marcus 2 Love 3 Ellie 4 Go 5 Cambridge
6 Together 7 Guided
Discussion Question
Have you ever done some bad things which your parents do not know.
My Answer
Yes I have. Sometimes I tell lie to them but I think they notice it . But they pretend like if they do not know .
Comment
I did not know this story is famous. I enjoyed reading this book. I was impressed by the
relationship between characters.
10/15-10/21
Chapter 1-4 55minutes
7 words summary
1 Will 2 Wants 3 Meet 4 Girls 5 SPAT 6 Met 7
Marcus
DQ
Have you ever joined some groups or activities like Will?
MA
Yes. I have been played basketball, so I joined a basketball club in my city before.
10/22-10/29
Chapter 5-8 65minutes
7 words summary
1 Ellie 2 Trouble 3 Rachel 4 Beautiful 5 Fiona 6 Know 7 Everything
DQ
Have you ever been surprised by your friends , because they had secrets and then they told a truth?
MA
Yes. When I was a high school student, my best friend had a secret about her family. But now I know everything and our relationship is good.
10/29-11/4
Chapter 9 25minutes
1 Rachel 2 Know 3 Truth 4 Marcus 5 Want 6 Will 7 Help
DQ
Have you ever exposed your lie to your friends?
MA
Yes. When I was late, I said that the train was late to my friend. However it was not true. The truth was I woke up late.
Penguin Readers YL 4
10/4 40 minutes 10/ 8 40 minutes
7 words summary
1 Will 2 Met 3 Marcus 4 Single Mother 5 suicide 6 Help 7 Attach
Discussion Question
Do you have any experiences which you were helped by someone exclude your family?
My Answer
I was helped by a woman when I was lost in Nagoya. She was very kind!
10/8-10/14. 80minutes
1 Marcus 2 Love 3 Ellie 4 Go 5 Cambridge
6 Together 7 Guided
Discussion Question
Have you ever done some bad things which your parents do not know.
My Answer
Yes I have. Sometimes I tell lie to them but I think they notice it . But they pretend like if they do not know .
Comment
I did not know this story is famous. I enjoyed reading this book. I was impressed by the
relationship between characters.
10/15-10/21
Chapter 1-4 55minutes
7 words summary
1 Will 2 Wants 3 Meet 4 Girls 5 SPAT 6 Met 7
Marcus
DQ
Have you ever joined some groups or activities like Will?
MA
Yes. I have been played basketball, so I joined a basketball club in my city before.
10/22-10/29
Chapter 5-8 65minutes
7 words summary
1 Ellie 2 Trouble 3 Rachel 4 Beautiful 5 Fiona 6 Know 7 Everything
DQ
Have you ever been surprised by your friends , because they had secrets and then they told a truth?
MA
Yes. When I was a high school student, my best friend had a secret about her family. But now I know everything and our relationship is good.
10/29-11/4
Chapter 9 25minutes
1 Rachel 2 Know 3 Truth 4 Marcus 5 Want 6 Will 7 Help
DQ
Have you ever exposed your lie to your friends?
MA
Yes. When I was late, I said that the train was late to my friend. However it was not true. The truth was I woke up late.
November 4, 2013
1.Person Education Limited
2.10/21 = 80 minutes
3.Will - rich - Marcus - weird - SPAT - suicide - visit
4. Q: When you were in elementary school, what kind of games did you play with your friends?
A: I played dodge ball, basket ball and tag. When it was rain, we did card and traditional Japanese games such as playing at cat's cardkle.
5.I felt that Marcus was a pitiful boy because he had no friends at school in Londn. If I were him, I couldn't bear that life. He was strong, I thought. I would like to be a friend of him, if I was a student of this school. Moreover, I hope that as soon as possible, Will would go out wiht Fiona and become happy.
2. 10/26 = 50 minutes, 10/28 = 20 minutes
3. notice - bully - buy - tell - Ellie - Christmas - love
4. Q. How do you spend your Christmas every year?
A. I spend with my family every year. We have cakes and a big dinner. That is so wonderful!
5. I thought that any people have some problems inside them. That is usual. It is one of the interesting points of life, but I really need my parents in my life. They always help and support me.
2. 11/4 = 60 minutes
3. truth - suicide - crazy - father - trip - reconciliation - change
4. Q: Who is your favorite entertainer? Why?
A: My favorite entertainer is Kouichi Yamadera. He is a voice actor, and he appears many movies and TV programs. He has many kinds of voice, and I like his way of expression. I really respect him.
5. I could not expect this story's end. I thought that Will and Fiona would get marry, but it was different. I think everyone is happy in this story, so the end of this story was OK. I admired about Marcus' brains and kind.
2.10/21 = 80 minutes
3.Will - rich - Marcus - weird - SPAT - suicide - visit
4. Q: When you were in elementary school, what kind of games did you play with your friends?
A: I played dodge ball, basket ball and tag. When it was rain, we did card and traditional Japanese games such as playing at cat's cardkle.
5.I felt that Marcus was a pitiful boy because he had no friends at school in Londn. If I were him, I couldn't bear that life. He was strong, I thought. I would like to be a friend of him, if I was a student of this school. Moreover, I hope that as soon as possible, Will would go out wiht Fiona and become happy.
2. 10/26 = 50 minutes, 10/28 = 20 minutes
3. notice - bully - buy - tell - Ellie - Christmas - love
4. Q. How do you spend your Christmas every year?
A. I spend with my family every year. We have cakes and a big dinner. That is so wonderful!
5. I thought that any people have some problems inside them. That is usual. It is one of the interesting points of life, but I really need my parents in my life. They always help and support me.
2. 11/4 = 60 minutes
3. truth - suicide - crazy - father - trip - reconciliation - change
4. Q: Who is your favorite entertainer? Why?
A: My favorite entertainer is Kouichi Yamadera. He is a voice actor, and he appears many movies and TV programs. He has many kinds of voice, and I like his way of expression. I really respect him.
5. I could not expect this story's end. I thought that Will and Fiona would get marry, but it was different. I think everyone is happy in this story, so the end of this story was OK. I admired about Marcus' brains and kind.
November 4, 2013
penguin reader level 4
10/16=13min 10/19=30min 10/21 20min
man- job -marry- boy - worry - mother -school
Do you want to marry?
I want to marry if I can do it,however ,
before doing it,I have to get a good salary job.
I like this novel because it is simple story,so it is easy to understand. Also, I like the thing which the people in this novel have worry , for example, Marcus has worry about mother and school. I want to read it more.
chapter 5 to 8
10/25= 30min 10/26 =15 min 10/27=33min
shopping - Trainers -angry - friends -lie-party -attractive
How do you spend Christmas?
If I have a girlfriend, I spend with her, but if I do not have a girlfriend, I stay at home with my family and eat delicious food.
I liked chapter 5 to 8 better more than 1 to 4 because some problems were solved and the way of solution was very good, especially chapter 6. Marcus made friends because of Nirvana. After that, he was not bullied. Actually, I also like the band, so the story made me more interested in this novel.
chapter 9 to 11
11/2=20min 11/4 =32min
truth - crying - trip -news -window - police -sing
Have you ever seen at the moment of breaking window?
Yes, I have. When I was elementary school student, I took part in softball tournament. Then one of my friends broke the window by throwing softball.
I like chapter 9 to 11, especially chapter 10. In this chapter , Ellie broke the window. Before breaking window, Ellie looks like adult, but I thought Marcus is grown-up boy mentally more than Ellie because Marcus persuaded Ellie by telling his experience. I was also glad to see Kurt Cobain's name, but his suicide' story always makes me sad.
10/16=13min 10/19=30min 10/21 20min
man- job -marry- boy - worry - mother -school
Do you want to marry?
I want to marry if I can do it,however ,
before doing it,I have to get a good salary job.
I like this novel because it is simple story,so it is easy to understand. Also, I like the thing which the people in this novel have worry , for example, Marcus has worry about mother and school. I want to read it more.
chapter 5 to 8
10/25= 30min 10/26 =15 min 10/27=33min
shopping - Trainers -angry - friends -lie-party -attractive
How do you spend Christmas?
If I have a girlfriend, I spend with her, but if I do not have a girlfriend, I stay at home with my family and eat delicious food.
I liked chapter 5 to 8 better more than 1 to 4 because some problems were solved and the way of solution was very good, especially chapter 6. Marcus made friends because of Nirvana. After that, he was not bullied. Actually, I also like the band, so the story made me more interested in this novel.
chapter 9 to 11
11/2=20min 11/4 =32min
truth - crying - trip -news -window - police -sing
Have you ever seen at the moment of breaking window?
Yes, I have. When I was elementary school student, I took part in softball tournament. Then one of my friends broke the window by throwing softball.
I like chapter 9 to 11, especially chapter 10. In this chapter , Ellie broke the window. Before breaking window, Ellie looks like adult, but I thought Marcus is grown-up boy mentally more than Ellie because Marcus persuaded Ellie by telling his experience. I was also glad to see Kurt Cobain's name, but his suicide' story always makes me sad.
November 4, 2013
Title: About a boy
Time: 60-65min
Author: Nick Hornby
Publisher: penguin readers
Level: 4
Discussion Question:
Do you want to marry a woman who has her children?
No, I wouldn't be able to take care of the children because they are not my children.
7- words summary
1- responsibility
2- woman
3- royalty
4-children
5- SPAT
6- help
7-return
Notes: there were a lot of pronouns. I was sometimes confused which pronouns meant who. It was the cause that I took a lot of time to read until chapter4.
Day: October 28 2013
Title: About a boy(chapter5-8)
Discussion Question:
What would you do when you are interested in a woman and you want to attract her to you?
--- I would make a conversation with talking about something interesting like my life history.
7-words summary:
1- go around
2- stolen
3- help
4- Ellie
5- Christmas
6- fall in love
7- coop
Notes:
Sometimes, this is difficult to read for me because of little complicated sentences, but I could enjoy reading these chapters! The story is going to be interesting.
Date: November 4 2013
Title: about a boy
Time: 70min
Discussion question:
Do you want to be involved in other people around you or not? Which is better for you?
--- I want to because that make my life exciting. I may be able to learn what other people think.
7-words summary
1- truth
2- cry
3- help
4- die
5- crazy
6- involved
7- disappear
Notes: I thought the end of this book was difficult to understand, so I was confused when I read.
Time: 60-65min
Author: Nick Hornby
Publisher: penguin readers
Level: 4
Discussion Question:
Do you want to marry a woman who has her children?
No, I wouldn't be able to take care of the children because they are not my children.
7- words summary
1- responsibility
2- woman
3- royalty
4-children
5- SPAT
6- help
7-return
Notes: there were a lot of pronouns. I was sometimes confused which pronouns meant who. It was the cause that I took a lot of time to read until chapter4.
Day: October 28 2013
Title: About a boy(chapter5-8)
Discussion Question:
What would you do when you are interested in a woman and you want to attract her to you?
--- I would make a conversation with talking about something interesting like my life history.
7-words summary:
1- go around
2- stolen
3- help
4- Ellie
5- Christmas
6- fall in love
7- coop
Notes:
Sometimes, this is difficult to read for me because of little complicated sentences, but I could enjoy reading these chapters! The story is going to be interesting.
Date: November 4 2013
Title: about a boy
Time: 70min
Discussion question:
Do you want to be involved in other people around you or not? Which is better for you?
--- I want to because that make my life exciting. I may be able to learn what other people think.
7-words summary
1- truth
2- cry
3- help
4- die
5- crazy
6- involved
7- disappear
Notes: I thought the end of this book was difficult to understand, so I was confused when I read.
November 12, 2013
About a boy
Penguin Reades
time=65 mins
7words
man-single-boy-get along-relationship-change-life
this is a story of man and boy. I guess big theme is growing relationship. I was interested in the life of Will. this book is very funny and enjoyable ,but it also has a much more serious side.
Q.do you think what makes Will's life better?
A. he now doesnt have a job. so to get a job can make his life better because there will be new meeting and it lets him getwnew world.
10.29
(chp5〜7)
time=70mins
７words
Will's flat-countdown-shopping-adidas-stolen-ameet-angry
Q.in this chapter, Will meets Marcus”s mum.
For her, Will is quietly stranger. isf wou are a parent, what do you think of this situation?
A. I feel terrible so much because my so or daughter goes to house of person who I don't know and is so much adult. It is very strange quietly.
11.5
chp8〜11
time= 70mins
7words
Rachel-father-spring-Cambridge-pub-police-
OK
Q.in this chapter,Will fell in love with Rachel.I was glad to know this information because he finally found out someone to love. By the way,what do you think about a lady like Rachel? like? or unlike?
A. in my opinion, I think that she is so good because she is so much attractive and understandable. I suppose she is so nice that even Will fell in love.
This book was actually interesting for me,
especially from the middle to the last. But I guess there some points which I could not understand because Im not good at reading, so I would like to watch of it even I know there are some different point of story between the book and the movie.
Penguin Reades
time=65 mins
7words
man-single-boy-get along-relationship-change-life
this is a story of man and boy. I guess big theme is growing relationship. I was interested in the life of Will. this book is very funny and enjoyable ,but it also has a much more serious side.
Q.do you think what makes Will's life better?
A. he now doesnt have a job. so to get a job can make his life better because there will be new meeting and it lets him getwnew world.
10.29
(chp5〜7)
time=70mins
７words
Will's flat-countdown-shopping-adidas-stolen-ameet-angry
Q.in this chapter, Will meets Marcus”s mum.
For her, Will is quietly stranger. isf wou are a parent, what do you think of this situation?
A. I feel terrible so much because my so or daughter goes to house of person who I don't know and is so much adult. It is very strange quietly.
11.5
chp8〜11
time= 70mins
7words
Rachel-father-spring-Cambridge-pub-police-
OK
Q.in this chapter,Will fell in love with Rachel.I was glad to know this information because he finally found out someone to love. By the way,what do you think about a lady like Rachel? like? or unlike?
A. in my opinion, I think that she is so good because she is so much attractive and understandable. I suppose she is so nice that even Will fell in love.
This book was actually interesting for me,
especially from the middle to the last. But I guess there some points which I could not understand because Im not good at reading, so I would like to watch of it even I know there are some different point of story between the book and the movie.
November 12, 2013
Penguin Readers Level4
Author: Nick Hornby
Time:10/21=90min
7words
Rich-no work-boy-single mother-kill herself-meet-lie
Discussion Question
Do you think you want a child or children in the future? Why? Why not?
In my case, I want children because I like children. Also,I want to have a happy family life. And I have heard it is good for teachers to have a family because they can their students' parents' feelings.
At first I did't understand the story because the story jumped many times. However, I could understand when Fiona tried to kill herself. It was very shocked for me and I could not understand why she did. I was looking forward to reading the rest.
Time:10/29=65min
7words:flat-shoes-angry-meet-Ellie-Christmas-love
Discussion Question
What do you want if someone buys anything you want?
In my case, I want new trombone because I don't have my trombone.
Actually, I don't like Will after reading this week's chapter because he lies so many times. I thought he didn't matter to lie for people who he loved. I cannot trust him very much.
Time:11/5=70min
7words: father-death-Ellie-crazy-broken-angry-better
Discussion Question
How do you want your child to grow up if you have children?
In my case, I want them to do anything they want to do. I think it is important to be curious about everything.
I finished reading about boy. It was exciting for me because I couldn't guess the story. I want to see this movie. I could enjoy reading. I was glad that Marcus became the same as twelve-year old boy.
Author: Nick Hornby
Time:10/21=90min
7words
Rich-no work-boy-single mother-kill herself-meet-lie
Discussion Question
Do you think you want a child or children in the future? Why? Why not?
In my case, I want children because I like children. Also,I want to have a happy family life. And I have heard it is good for teachers to have a family because they can their students' parents' feelings.
At first I did't understand the story because the story jumped many times. However, I could understand when Fiona tried to kill herself. It was very shocked for me and I could not understand why she did. I was looking forward to reading the rest.
Time:10/29=65min
7words:flat-shoes-angry-meet-Ellie-Christmas-love
Discussion Question
What do you want if someone buys anything you want?
In my case, I want new trombone because I don't have my trombone.
Actually, I don't like Will after reading this week's chapter because he lies so many times. I thought he didn't matter to lie for people who he loved. I cannot trust him very much.
Time:11/5=70min
7words: father-death-Ellie-crazy-broken-angry-better
Discussion Question
How do you want your child to grow up if you have children?
In my case, I want them to do anything they want to do. I think it is important to be curious about everything.
I finished reading about boy. It was exciting for me because I couldn't guess the story. I want to see this movie. I could enjoy reading. I was glad that Marcus became the same as twelve-year old boy.
November 24, 2013
Penguin Readers Level4(9^11)
About a boy
Time-11/1/2013=30minutes, 11/2/2013=30minutes
7words summary-Will Rachel Marcus Ellie Fiona Clive Lindsey
Discussion Question
What do you always think about people related to you, such as freinds and family?
I think that they are important for me. In order to rethink it, I chose main characters'name as 7 word summary on purpose. We give many people influence conciously or unconciously. After reading final chapter, I think so.
You will learn to think the importance of people around you from About a boy.
Penguin Readers Level4 (5^8)
About a boy
Time-10/28=70minutes
7word summary Marcus Will asked Fiona friend Cristmas love
Discussion question
What is a happy life for you?
I think that Marcus is always worried about his mum, and
he wanted to meet Will. Therefore, I considerd it.
My happy life is to go outside with my friends and family.
It is very good.
From these chapter, I considerd complex about the relationship of human beings
Penguin Readers Level4(1^4)
About a boy
Time-10/20/2013=50minutes,10/21/2013=20minutes
7word summary=Will,no,responsibilities,Murcus,weird,SPAT,life
Discussion Question
What do you think about responsibilities?
In doing something like jobs, responsibilities inspire me to do better.When I become a teacher, this will be one of the most important things, so I want a full life with "responsibilities".
This book is easy to read for me, and it will tell you various things.
About a boy
Time-11/1/2013=30minutes, 11/2/2013=30minutes
7words summary-Will Rachel Marcus Ellie Fiona Clive Lindsey
Discussion Question
What do you always think about people related to you, such as freinds and family?
I think that they are important for me. In order to rethink it, I chose main characters'name as 7 word summary on purpose. We give many people influence conciously or unconciously. After reading final chapter, I think so.
You will learn to think the importance of people around you from About a boy.
Penguin Readers Level4 (5^8)
About a boy
Time-10/28=70minutes
7word summary Marcus Will asked Fiona friend Cristmas love
Discussion question
What is a happy life for you?
I think that Marcus is always worried about his mum, and
he wanted to meet Will. Therefore, I considerd it.
My happy life is to go outside with my friends and family.
It is very good.
From these chapter, I considerd complex about the relationship of human beings
Penguin Readers Level4(1^4)
About a boy
Time-10/20/2013=50minutes,10/21/2013=20minutes
7word summary=Will,no,responsibilities,Murcus,weird,SPAT,life
Discussion Question
What do you think about responsibilities?
In doing something like jobs, responsibilities inspire me to do better.When I become a teacher, this will be one of the most important things, so I want a full life with "responsibilities".
This book is easy to read for me, and it will tell you various things.
January 8, 2013
11/23 30min. 11/25 45min.
summary cry / relationship / single / difficulty / responsibility / ccomplicated / pretending
Q1. Most of you sang songs in English classes. What song did you like to sing in that class?
A. "We are the world" is one of the good material for introduction in English class. I watched music video and some classmates (including me) immitated some singer.
Q2. Do you wan to work if you do not need to work?
A. It depends on my age, but basically I will work. Definitely, I seek the value that I feel survivng, and work is the one of the value.
11/26 40min 12/3 30min
summary bully / steal / weird / countdown / christmas / love / crazy
Q1. Do all people have to do the same (or similar) thing?
A. I do not think so. But I prefer similar thing in order to adjust situation.
Q2 Had you ever cut your hair when you were kid.
A. Yes. I think kids like to cut their own hair.
12/8 40min 12/9 20min
summary iinteresting / suicide / trust / crying / responsibility / truth / relationship
Q1 Have you ever thought that you wanted to suicide?
A1. I used to. Whenever I had trouble, I often thought that. What a childish I was.
Q2. Who is your favorite singer?
A1. I like Queen. I'm sad that Freddie was dead.
summary cry / relationship / single / difficulty / responsibility / ccomplicated / pretending
Q1. Most of you sang songs in English classes. What song did you like to sing in that class?
A. "We are the world" is one of the good material for introduction in English class. I watched music video and some classmates (including me) immitated some singer.
Q2. Do you wan to work if you do not need to work?
A. It depends on my age, but basically I will work. Definitely, I seek the value that I feel survivng, and work is the one of the value.
11/26 40min 12/3 30min
summary bully / steal / weird / countdown / christmas / love / crazy
Q1. Do all people have to do the same (or similar) thing?
A. I do not think so. But I prefer similar thing in order to adjust situation.
Q2 Had you ever cut your hair when you were kid.
A. Yes. I think kids like to cut their own hair.
12/8 40min 12/9 20min
summary iinteresting / suicide / trust / crying / responsibility / truth / relationship
Q1 Have you ever thought that you wanted to suicide?
A1. I used to. Whenever I had trouble, I often thought that. What a childish I was.
Q2. Who is your favorite singer?
A1. I like Queen. I'm sad that Freddie was dead.
December 11, 2012
Time: 11/30=15min, 12/1=30min, 12/2=20min, 12/3=25min, Total=90min
7-word-summary: bully-trainers-stolen-girl-countdown-Christmas-love
Discussion question:
Q1: Have you ever stolen something?
A1: Yes, I have ever stolen money during the club time when I was a high school student. In my club, many students were stolen money. So some lockers were installed in the clubroom.
Q2: Do you know some things about your father?
A2: A little. I know his birthday, but I don't know what my father like.
-----------------------------------------------------------
Time: 12/7=20min, 12/8=15min, 12/9=15min, 12/10=18min, Total=68min
7-word-summary: death-train-break-police-clerk-angry-change
Discussion question:
Q1: Have you ever broken a window?
A1: No, I haven't, but I have seen my classmate broke a window in classroom. I was very surprised at it.
Q2: When did you feel that you grew up?
A2: When I was high school students, I changed. I met one teacher who I could respect, so my mind was changed.
7-word-summary: bully-trainers-stolen-girl-countdown-Christmas-love
Discussion question:
Q1: Have you ever stolen something?
A1: Yes, I have ever stolen money during the club time when I was a high school student. In my club, many students were stolen money. So some lockers were installed in the clubroom.
Q2: Do you know some things about your father?
A2: A little. I know his birthday, but I don't know what my father like.
-----------------------------------------------------------
Time: 12/7=20min, 12/8=15min, 12/9=15min, 12/10=18min, Total=68min
7-word-summary: death-train-break-police-clerk-angry-change
Discussion question:
Q1: Have you ever broken a window?
A1: No, I haven't, but I have seen my classmate broke a window in classroom. I was very surprised at it.
Q2: When did you feel that you grew up?
A2: When I was high school students, I changed. I met one teacher who I could respect, so my mind was changed.
December 10, 2012
-PENGUIN READERS. Level 4.
-TIME total=69min. 11/24=45min. 11/25=24min.
-7words summary: life, normal, weird, single, difficulty, suicide, help
-Discussion question:
1. If you find your mother is worried about something too much, how wii you speak to her?......I will speak to her kindly and tell her that I always stand by her.
2. In this story, Will helped Marcus when Marcus killed a duck accidentally. Have you ever had an experience that someone helped you?......I had been helped by my mother when my brother doubted me whether I had his favorite snack or not.
I read this book by Chapter 4 and felt I want to read the rest of this book as soon as possible.
I predict that Will would help Marcus's mother, Fiona, unwillingly at first, but Will would build a happy home with Marcus and Fiona gradually. I hope both of Will and Marcus will become happy and comfort, especially Marcus, because he had a curious experience and a burden in his mind in spite of his young age.
-TIME total=69min. 11/24=45min. 11/25=24min.
-7words summary: life, normal, weird, single, difficulty, suicide, help
-Discussion question:
1. If you find your mother is worried about something too much, how wii you speak to her?......I will speak to her kindly and tell her that I always stand by her.
2. In this story, Will helped Marcus when Marcus killed a duck accidentally. Have you ever had an experience that someone helped you?......I had been helped by my mother when my brother doubted me whether I had his favorite snack or not.
I read this book by Chapter 4 and felt I want to read the rest of this book as soon as possible.
I predict that Will would help Marcus's mother, Fiona, unwillingly at first, but Will would build a happy home with Marcus and Fiona gradually. I hope both of Will and Marcus will become happy and comfort, especially Marcus, because he had a curious experience and a burden in his mind in spite of his young age.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 22, 2015
1.level 4
2. Dec 12 ,60min 13,20min 16,70min 17,30min
3. boy,mother,man,weak,problem,family,bully
4.There is a boy who is 12 years ,Marcus and there is a man who is 36 years old ,Will. Marcus's parents divorced so he is living with his mother. However she tryed to kill herself...
On the other hand, Will is an iirresposible man. He often make lies to meet women ...
5. I just want to say how poor is Marcus. I thought his parents are so selfish and don't take care of him so much. In addition he could not consult his mother he is bullyed by other students. I am also disgusted Will. He is 36 howeber his behavior is not like 36 year man. I can't understand what does this book want to say....
2. Dec 12 ,60min 13,20min 16,70min 17,30min
3. boy,mother,man,weak,problem,family,bully
4.There is a boy who is 12 years ,Marcus and there is a man who is 36 years old ,Will. Marcus's parents divorced so he is living with his mother. However she tryed to kill herself...
On the other hand, Will is an iirresposible man. He often make lies to meet women ...
5. I just want to say how poor is Marcus. I thought his parents are so selfish and don't take care of him so much. In addition he could not consult his mother he is bullyed by other students. I am also disgusted Will. He is 36 howeber his behavior is not like 36 year man. I can't understand what does this book want to say....
December 11, 2012
Time: 11/26=60m 11/27=30m
7 word summary: guy, responsibility, boy, single, mother, SPAT, ambulance
Discussion questions
1. How do you feel about having responsibilities?
2. What do you think about single mothers?
Answer
1. When I have responsibilities, I feel very nervous, but I am very motivated to compliment my responsibilities.
2. I think that they are very strong. I respect them. I cannot imagine how much tough growing up children without father is, so I think that single mothers are very powerful and the power of love is very strong.
7 word summary: guy, responsibility, boy, single, mother, SPAT, ambulance
Discussion questions
1. How do you feel about having responsibilities?
2. What do you think about single mothers?
Answer
1. When I have responsibilities, I feel very nervous, but I am very motivated to compliment my responsibilities.
2. I think that they are very strong. I respect them. I cannot imagine how much tough growing up children without father is, so I think that single mothers are very powerful and the power of love is very strong.
April 4, 2015
یه چیزی که معلومه اینه که روی واردات این کتابها هیییییییچ نظارتی نمیشه! البته اگه قرار بود نظارت بشه هم میومدن فوقش عکسها رو ناشینانه سانسور میکردن و کلمه های بد رو غلطگیر! میزدن. که این خودش بیشتر حرص آدم رو درمیاره. حداقل یه رده بندی سنی در نظر بگیرن برای محصولات...
من این سری پنگوئن اکتیو ریدینگ رو دوست دارم و برای بهبود زبان خیلی خوبه. اول فایل صوتی رو که ریختم رو موبایلم گوش میدم. بعد دفعه دوم همزمان با شنیدن فایل روی نوشته رو هم نگاه میکنم. البته بعضی از فصل ها رو هم بدون گوش دادن،خودم از رو خوندم. ولی خب من میخواستم لیسنینگم هم تقویت بشه. تمرینات خوبی هم داره.
من این سری پنگوئن اکتیو ریدینگ رو دوست دارم و برای بهبود زبان خیلی خوبه. اول فایل صوتی رو که ریختم رو موبایلم گوش میدم. بعد دفعه دوم همزمان با شنیدن فایل روی نوشته رو هم نگاه میکنم. البته بعضی از فصل ها رو هم بدون گوش دادن،خودم از رو خوندم. ولی خب من میخواستم لیسنینگم هم تقویت بشه. تمرینات خوبی هم داره.
November 27, 2012
ーabout a boy. Nick hornby
ーabout 80 minutes
ーjob family man boy SPAT women plan
ーQ1.On page 7,what does it mean "Good at what?"
Q2.Why did Will join the SPAT?
I thought that this book story was very difficult to understand for me,but it was not so difficult.I thought that this story was very interesting because boy and man were very unique. They have some problems each other, and I guess that a boy Marcos will change a man Will's character next. I am looking for that.
ーabout 80 minutes
ーjob family man boy SPAT women plan
ーQ1.On page 7,what does it mean "Good at what?"
Q2.Why did Will join the SPAT?
I thought that this book story was very difficult to understand for me,but it was not so difficult.I thought that this story was very interesting because boy and man were very unique. They have some problems each other, and I guess that a boy Marcos will change a man Will's character next. I am looking for that.
April 7, 2009
It's very good so far. I've already read it and watched the movie. This one is a simplified version for school. Fabulous!
Read
February 23, 2013I learned that if you love someone, it doesn't matter if they are married or have kids.
March 4, 2013
Read back in 2002, okay, not bad
January 24, 2020
There was a mistake
I finished a new book in English. It was an easy and nice story. Every time I consult the dictionary less. (level 4, hahaha)
I finished a new book in English. It was an easy and nice story. Every time I consult the dictionary less. (level 4, hahaha)
May 27, 2023
Anglu valoda stunda pirma izlasiju sweet manuprat
March 4, 2025
Inglés básico - fácil lectura
Libro corto
La historia de un niño, con problemas en la familia, en el colegio. Conoce a un hombre rico solitario y construye una relación rara.
Libro corto
La historia de un niño, con problemas en la familia, en el colegio. Conoce a un hombre rico solitario y construye una relación rara.
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews