Amazing Books You NEED to Be Reading!

Are you going to be bored over the President's week break? Here are some awesome book suggestions!

1) The Iron King by Julie Kagawa (series)

This book is about a girl who didn't feel like she belonged. She is teased at school and only has one good friend. Her father's mysterious disappearance when she was young haunts her. Soon, she discovers that a lot more is in store for her. Follow Meghan Chase through this fabulous book as she faces secrets, true love, and a danger she never could have imagined.

2) This Book is a Secret by Pseudonymous Bosch (series)

This book is one unlike any other. The narrator is anonymous, fearing that his enemies will find him. All of the names and places in this book are fake. Every bit of it, Bosch claims, is a true story. Watch as two young children meet their fate, to discover the ultimate secret of mankind.

3) The Series of Unfortunate Events by Lemony Snicket (series)

Four young children are faced with the mysterious death of their parents. Life tests their resourcefulness and intelligence time and time again - for these children have terrible luck. They never know who to trust, and who will stab them as soon as they turn around. Read this book for some interesting situations and laughs - but be aware that luck is not with the Baudelaire children.

4) The Host by Stephanie Meyer

Two personalities are forced into a single body. In this futuristic romance, Melanie and Wanderer are forced to work together despite their differences. Soon, they are so mixed together that nothing is clear - who they love, what they want, and what they future will hold.

5) Wonder by R.J. Palacio

This story is from the perspective of many people, from young kids to high schoolers. August Pullman has facial anomalies that make him look different from everyone else. He is faced with being the new kid, being teased, and the regular trials and tribulations of entering middle school. He is growing up, still trying to show the world that he is simply an ordinary boy with an extraordinary face.

Note: These books may contain some romance (not much). Personally, I think these books are okay for ages 10 and up. If you are unsure, ask your parents first!

Please let me know what you think of these books, which you may read, or if you have already read any. I would also LOVE to hear any more book suggestions! :)

These pictures may or may not give you a clue to what these books are about. :)

Changing the World - one Teen at a Time!

Somehow, today, you have arrived at my new blog. Maybe you spotted it on the internet and thought it looked interesting. Or perhaps you've seen my cards before. Maybe you recognize me from school.

However you arrived here, I created this blog so that I can share my mission with you. So here is my story:

I was a little girl, around seven years old. I believed in rainbows, sunshine, and the ghosts on Halloween. I was extremely excited when I arrived in India on vacation, taking in the shops full of bright clothing and unique merchandise. The rain was pouring down hard, but that didn't dampen my spirits. In a split second, everything changed.

A little girl, around the same age as me, was approaching us. She was practically skin and bones, with sticks for arms and legs. Her eyes looked tired and dead. Walking through the rain towards us, she softly asked, "Do you have anything to eat?" 

That night, I cried. 

In my short life, it had never occurred to me that some people didn't have food. I wondered where that girl was now, and whether she got enough to eat. I thought of her, battling through the rain, begging for food.

 I researched world hunger, and saw frightening numbers. While researching world hunger I was shocked to learn that our planet has been producing enough food to feed every single person since 1970. So, why are so many people starving? They don’t have the money to pay for sustenance. I was determined to find a way to make a difference.

At the same time,  before I knew how to read or write, I was telling stories. I would paint on large pieces of canvas. I had a zest for art and writing. It made my heart fill up with joy. It was something I loved then, and continues to be so to this day.

I put my overwhelming feelings gratitude and joy into my new nonprofit company.  I started this store as a sixth grader who is passionate about ending world hunger during my lifetime. 

I set up an Etsy store called Art4Hunger (http://www.etsy.com/shop/Art4Hunger ) that sells unique greeting cards to anyone around the world. These cards are made with photos of my original artwork starting when I was five years old. They are individually autographed by me. The back of most cards briefly describe my story behind the painting or my thoughts that inspired that artwork. 

I decided that 100% of the profits from all sales go to the Sacred Heart Community Service that feed thousands of hungry people.

That is why I created this blog. I made it to inform people about world hunger. I made it, knowing that every drop of water helps make an ocean. Together, we can eradicate world hunger. I can do this - with all of your help. Whether you decide to buy a card, comment below with suggestions for other ways to raise money, or simply tell your friends about me, I appreciate it all. Because I know that what one person cannot do alone, we ALL can do together. :)