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Dear Mr. Reynolds

Thank you for writing a truly inspirational novel that impacted my point of view of the world dramatically. I have learned from your book that nothing is black and white. For example, the metaphor “A school bus is a science lab” got me thinking about how diverse the world can be. Reading your book made me realize that you need to dig deeper before making assumptions about someone. I love how the story all adds up to an ending where it all comes together. The use of third-person makes the story even stronger because it builds to the idea that from an outside perspective we get to focus on each individual student and the adversity they face after the school bell rings. This book also introduces many important causes. To sum it up, this book has made me think about the importance of not judging someone until you get to know them and has inspired many other students too.

Thank you,

Sophie Gutter

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Dear Mr. Reynolds,

I would like to thank you for writing this incredible story. The novel “Look both ways'' emphasizes the importance of really “Looking both Ways”. You have really considered all the possibilities of what kids around the world might be hiding under smiles or anger. So many people have gone through the same grief and pain as many of these characters. I am forever grateful that you spoke up for many people afraid to. Some people may seem like troublemakers, but have the right intention. Some people may be always laughing and making jokes, but are burying their feelings deep beneath. I know from experience that hiding the way you feel only makes everything worse. I now see things. All the problems, pain, grief, sickness, anxiety, I feel my eyes have finally opened up. I now see the world through new and more open eyes than I did before. It’s always better to learn the reasons behind people’s actions or behavior. Mr. Reynolds, you are truly an inspiration. This novel has taught me so much in so little time. All of your characters may be fictional, but the problems they face are real. Bullying, money struggles, illness, anxiety and death are all very serious problems faced in this Novel. I feel I can relate to all of these characters in some way, like Bit, for example. Someone very important to me was diagnosed with Cancer twice. I would’ve done anything to make them feel better. It hurts knowing there is someone close to you that has to deal with an illness like Cancer. I couldn’t do anything at all to help them. Knowing that people are going through something hard like that too makes me wonder what everyone’s reasons are for acting like they do. I realize now that I should not judge people by their attitudes or actions but by the motives behind them. Thank you for teaching all these important lessons in your Novel.

Sincerely,

Jordyn Patnoi

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Dear Mr. Reynolds,

Thank you for inspiring and teaching me that everything can be seen in different ways from everyone's perspective. While I was reading the last chapter, “The Broom Dog”, I felt very moved and the way the narrator used his imagination to explain the school bus really made me think about the environment around me. I can connect to this because while my class and I were reading “Look Both Ways” everyone interpreted each chapter in their own way as we had our daily discussions. Each chapter that I read all gave me a sense of creativity. I really loved that about the book. The final chapter was definitely my favorite because I loved the way the narrator used metaphors to explain the school bus. Another thing I would like to thank you for is making me passionate and inspiring me to think “how am I gonna change the world”. While I was reading the chapter about Fatima and her idea for her project I was really motivated by her thought and feeling of how she wanted to make everyone's lives better.  I was really inspired by your book and I am looking forward to reading more of your books.

Sincerely,

Addison

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Dear Mr. Reynolds,

Thank you for this amazing book that has taught me many valuable lessons and has changed my perspective on the world. I grew up in a neighborhood where everybody knew each other like a family but didn’t really know each other. This book has changed my perspective on how I see these people every day. All the stories I see happening all around me. It just occurred to me that I have known these people since I was 4, but I don’t really know. I am now taking the time to learn more about these people. Finally, I also just love this book with all the plot twists and moments that hit you like a bus falling out of the sky. I loved the book so much but I personally have 1 recomendation. This book is spectacular and the ending doesn't to it justice. It is great don't get me wrong but I feel it could be improved. I felt like I had unanswered questions. We never learn what happens to Bryce and Ty, or Marcus and Pia, or Bit and the low cuts, or Gregory and Sandra. I think a great last chapter would include an ending that involved all of the characters with the questions left unanswered. Maybe we see Gregory and Sandra on a date. On the date, they sit at Cynthia’s show laughing along with many people. In the stands, Gregory sees Bit and his mom enjoying their time. Maybe even Bryce and Ty are going on a date or we see them as best friends. Gregory turns his head and sees Pia teaching Marcus how to skateboard. Satchmo is sitting in the park playing with a dog. Simeon and Kenzie are being a best friend duo laughing around their favorite street. This book was amazing but with this ending, I would love it even more!

With great thanks,

Molly Brisman

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Thank you Jason Reynolds. I thank you for entertaining me with this book that was funny, enjoyable, and something I just wanted to keep reading.Another thing I would like to thank you for is being an inspiration to me, and teaching me how important it is to look both ways at a person instead of just on the outside. This book has touched my soul and has had an impact on my life. The book has shown me that you can be great the way you are and being different from other people and having a different life does not mean you are weird or abnormal- it means you are you. Lastly, my mom has now taken interest in the book after me talking about it to her. Thank you for being an inspiration to me and many others.

From,

Michael Fuhrmann

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Dear Mr. Reynolds,

Thank you for entertaining me with the fascinating novel Look Both Ways. It was very suspenseful and I like how you used different character’s points of view to mix up the story and show the backgrounds of others. It shows me that people shouldn’t be so harsh on others since you don’t know about the whole story. I will take that into consideration and I hope others will too. I can relate to Satchmo's fear of dogs since I’m paranoid and scared of bees. I have gotten stung before but I will man up and make a plan like Satchmo did to get over my fear of bees and to make sure to not give up on it. Also throughout the ten chapters, the theme of getting over fear was used. Like how Greg asked out his crush and Canton using a stress broom dog thing for helping his anxiety. I have learned that fear clouds your judgment and thoughts. I will take away from this novel not to let fear get the best of me. Thank you for writing a great novel to read with my class!

From,

Dylan Entner.

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Dear Mr. Reynolds,

Thank you for entertaining me with this amazing book. This book was so good because it was exciting and funny. This book has made me want to come to school every day and be excited for this one class and read the book. I don't usually want to even get out of bed to go to school. This book has taught me a lesson to not judge someone of their appearance. For example, when everyone thinks that bit is a bully but he really is a thoughtful person and loving for his mom. This funny book was inspirational because it shows me how you can change the world with one little thing. Thank you for writing this spectacular book.
From,
Benny Hurewitz

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Dear Mr. Reynolds,

Thank you so much for sharing your book with the readers! I especially had my heart melt when I found out that the Low Cuts were only trying to get money to buy ice cream for their parents with cancer. The students were dashing down the streets and going from store to store to see if any worker would trade money for their candy. My jaw dropped when I thought the Low Cuts were trouble makers but ended up showing consideration to their parents. This chapter in the book is very touching and inspirational because it could motivate readers to care for their families. Also, I was on the edge of my seat while reading this book because it was very entertaining. For instance, some of the characters demonstrate a little bit of humor yet thoughtfulness for each other. Again, I appreciate your hard work and efforts on this book. It taught me many valuable lessons and influenced me by relating to the characters' lives and situations.

Sincerely,

Allison Park

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Dear Jason Reynolds,

Thank you for giving me the chance to read the stories where people with different adversities overcome their situations. I learned that I shouldn't judge a person based on their looks because I might not know what they might be going through. In my opinion, this book provides inspiring stories that present unique characters and their perspectives as they face different situations. One aspect I very much enjoyed about the “school bus falling from the sky” image was that in its uniqueness and mystery, the word “school bus” frequently appeared in the novel. This book also contained many morals that I can learn. In the book, the characters demonstrate that they are highly dependent on their friends and that makes friendship one of the most important themes of the novel. Additionally, this book motivated me to take action when bullying occurs.

Thank you,

Dianne Peck

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2. Throughout the book, several characters who lash out or are “rough around the edges” are revealed to be facing difficulty at home.  

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2. Throughout the book, several characters who lash out or are “rough around the edges” are revealed to be facing difficulty at home.  

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Throughout the book, I’ve seen how Reynolds describes all his characters and then later in the chapter makes us almost understand them and their feelings. For example, at the begging of the chapter “Hitter Skitter,” I was unaware of the importance and meaning behind Pia Foster’s skateboard. It wasn’t just an old board. It was Santi’s. Santi was Pia’s sister who passed away from a boy pushing her into oncoming traffic. This information made me change my thinking about Pia Foster. At first, I thought maybe she was a little too protective of it but when I realized how special it really was, it changed my thinking about Pia. Also, at first, I thought Bit and the Low Cuts were troublemakers and bad kids, but towards the end of the chapter, I realized they did all the bad stuff. They stole change to buy then sell candy so they could buy ice cream for their parents who had cancer. No, this does not validate their actions, but it does make me understand why they did it.

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Dear Mr.Reynolds,

While reading your book Look both Ways I have learned many things. Not only have I learned to be brave and face my fears but I have learned to look both ways. Your book shows to look both ways at people. For example Mrs.Post the crossing guard. Some people might look at her as just a boring old crossing guard, but she saved someone from getting hit by a bus so some people might look at her as a hero. Also there is Mr.Munch, people might look at him as a custodian. But when he saw Canton crying in the bathroom instead of telling him to go back to class, like any other teacher might do, he made him feel better. This book has taught me many lessons like thinking differently about something, someone or yourself. Not only have you made an amazing book but you also have made an inspiring book.

Sincerely,
Remi Actman

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Pia looked longingly at her skateboard–now broken in half, seeming to stare at her pale face. She ran, long and hard. Stevie chased after her. He grabbed the sleeve of her sagging shirt. Maybe if he didn’t let her run away, something would have changed.

“H-hey, I…I’m sorry. It’s just that I thought that maybe I could have finally walked home, without bumping into Marcus.” Stevie stuttered.

Pia willingly turned around. Maybe, just maybe she would have ran faster, ignoring his pinching voice that tattooed onto her ear.

“An apology can’t help with anything!”

Tears started streaming down her face. Her voice broke,

“Skitter, she was my skateboard. My…. life-”

Stevie trembled with two broken halves in his hands. It felt like he was holding an aching heart broken in half. Slowly, he placed the two pieces down and kneeled to place his backpack on the sidewalk.

“W-what are you doing?” Pia sniffed, wiping her shining eyes.

Maybe if he hadn’t glued the two pieces together, wrapped it up with a green tie, Pia Foster wouldn’t have thanked him. And maybe if he didn’t realize the warm feeling of helping another, Skitter would still be laying on the road. Until maybe a school bus falls from the sky.

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Dear Mr. Reynolds,
Thank you for causing me to think differently about something, someone, or myself. I have thought differently about these things because I have read Look Both Ways. This helps me understand things in the real world. Also, I now know to always look at someone two times before judging someone. You also taught me how to speak up for a person or an issue when I am in a situation that involves that. Finally, thank you for creating an exciting and humorous book. For all of that, I thank you a lot.

Sincerely,

Jake Aronson

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Saif Naqvi- Number 8
Then Gregory thought, But maybe not. It was quiet for the next minute. Sandra was standing there thinking to herself what to do. Until finally, the words Gregory wanted to hear came out. Gregory was in shock while Sandra had a big smile. “Sooooo,” Gregory eagerly said,

“I am not ready for the smooching part yet but we can hug,” Sandra said awkwardly

“Alright,” Gregory sighing

Thinking that he will take whatever he will get

Gregory was jumping up and down like he was playing Hopscotch

His friends were chanting in the distance “Sandra and Gregory sitting on a tree K-I…”

Gregory ignored them as he had a huge smile on his face.

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If you could orchestrate a friendship between two characters from different stories, which characters would you want to be friends? 

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If you could orchestrate a friendship between two characters from different stories, which characters would you want to be friends? 

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In the book Look Both Ways there are several characters that go to the same school that don’t really know each other and are not close friends. However, if I could orchestrate a friendship between two characters I would choose Fatima and Canton. I chose these two characters because they are both dealing with stress and solving them in different ways. For example, Fatima wrote down all of her thoughts while Canton realized and talked to a “dog.” I would love to see Fatima and Canton discuss their stress and ways to relieve it. Furthermore, it would be interesting to maybe see Canton try Fatima’s way to deal with stress while Fatima tries Canton’s. For instance, Canton tries to write his thoughts down while Fatima has a broom dog. In conclusion, I think having those two characters become friends as a reader would be very entertaining as well as helping the reader understand more about what they are going through

Jason Herz

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Thank you so much for creating such an amazing book. Through out the novel, you caused readers to think differently about something or some one. For example, in the chapter "Low Cuts", readers first think that, The Low Cuts are just bad no good kids, but later we learn that they were really trying to get ice cream for Bit's mom. This shows that even though most of the characters think that the Low Cuts are bad, they don't know what they are trying to achieve. Also in the last chapter, Mr. Munch, the custodian, was a big help to Canton to get over his emotions after his mom got hit by a bus. Again, you made the reader think differently about people. Most readers and people wouldn't think the custodian would be able to help the student over come his emotions and fear. This novel was very entertaining, and I couldn't wait to read the next chapter. This novel taught me to think differently about people, and not to judge a book by its cover. Finally,  I thank you for all the hard work you put into this book.

Sincerely,

Marin Goetzke

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In the realistic fiction novel, Look Both Ways by Jason Reynolds, many of the characters face bullying and harassment. However, they each address this issue in their own way. Pia remains quiet, yet somehow her silence continues to intimidate. Stevie allows the bullies to keep harassing him, does not tell an adult, and just lets them walk all over him. Ty still acts as his unique and funky self, brushing the haters off his shoulders. And Bryson respectfully confronts the bullies. He tells them off and shuts them down for the right reason- defending his friend. Now, I do believe that Bryson deals with this issue in the healthiest and most effective way because he respectfully brings attention to it. In addition, Bryson is not holding back his feelings which could be unhealthy for one’s mind. Furthermore, once he told them off- they stopped bothering Ty.

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If I could create a friendship between people from different chapters there is only one pair I think would work out. This friendship is Pia from the chapter “Skitter Hitter” and Cynthia from the chapter “Ookabooka Land”. These two were meant to be friends from the moment I finished reading their chapters. One reason for this is that Pia is held back and does not have many friends but is sporty and rolls out of school every day on her skateboard. But Cynthia is very out in the open, does not have tons of friends but she loves to talk and tell jokes like her Grandfather. I believe that if these two meet and have a one on one conversation they  could teach each other some lessons. Cynthia and Pia could teach each other about friendship, how to open up and talk or how to lay back and try more exercise. But another thing they might be able to do together is teach them about loss. This is because they have both suffered whether it was from Pia’s sister who passed away but also Cynthia’s grandfather who is starting to lose his memory. In conclusion, that is why I would choose Pia and Cynthia to have a friendship with each other.

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If I can orchestrate a friendship between two different characters from the book I would choose Bit and Simeon. I would create this friendship because those kids are two characters who both act very tough on the outside but they are both soft on the inside and want to keep the friends and family safe. For example, Simeon wants to keep Kenzi safe because Kenzi’s older brother was friends with Simeon’s older brother, and when Simeon’s older brother did a crime Kenzi’s brother had to suffer for it. So Simeon finds it his responsibility to keep Kenzi safe. Also, Bit wants to keep his mother safe because she is suffering from cancer so he does what he can to help her. I believe they will be great friends and always look out for each other. That is why I would create a friendship between Bit and Simeon.

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Dear Mr. Reynolds,

I have just finished reading your book “Look Both Ways,” and I think it is a great book. I really enjoyed reading it. The idea of making ten different stories was truly amazing. Plus the way they all connect and affect each other’s lives. Not only does it show the thoughts of the main characters in each chapter but their friends or companions too. I think that the social issues used were perfect for the readers' age group, not too complex, and not too bland. Every chapter was entertaining and interesting. This book really taught me about friendship and what makes good friends.

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Samantha Lee :D                                     5. Reflect on Chapter 3

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Samantha Lee :D                                     5. Reflect on Chapter 3

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Maybe if…

Maybe if I talked to her she wouldn’t be alone,
And how much I wanted to be her friend would’ve shown.
If I sat and talked with her at lunch,
She would be part of my group, my crew, my friend bunch.
Why did I not talk to her? I do not know.
But now all her loneliness is starting to grow

Maybe if I invited her to walk to the donut shop,
We would hang out and be together nonstop
If I made her feel welcome to our typical school,
In the summer, she could come over to our family’s pool
Why did I not talk to her? I can’t tell.
But now at school she feels like she’s trapped in a cell

Maybe if I told her she was welcome to hang out with me,
She would be happy, friendly and even free
If I had been kinder, sweeter, more true
This girl wouldn’t feel so incredibly new
I still don’t know what the reason is
But time passes by, sometimes you fail the quiz

That girl and I might never be friends,
Life can change but that all depends
Maybe if I knew she would like me
Maybe I would be finally free

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Dear Jason Reynolds,
Thank you for giving my class and me the opportunity to experience numerous perspectives of children overcoming challenges. As a young writer, your writing is an inspiration for young generations. Not only does your literature express the feelings of people with deep personalities, but it can teach the reader many lessons throughout the story. Look Both Ways can teach children that they should never judge people based on race, religion, emotions, or what they’re passionate about. You inspire me to take action whenever there is a person in need amongst the scene of bullying. I appreciate how you were also able to add metaphors describing the school bus, which really moved me, knowing how a consistent factor can be shown in various ways. I have learned how to stand up to people who judge based on their stereotypes.

With gratitude,
Megan Kim

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Then Gregory thought, but maybe not.

“you didn’t have to do all of this for me.”

“Really?”

“Yes”

“I will love to be your girlfriend”

“Oh”

Gregory started sweating. Then Sandra looks at Gregory, and that is when they fell in love. Gregory looked confident and leaned in to kiss her. But then she dodged the kiss and said “I don’t think I’m ready for this Gregory.”

“Oh...ok...whatever.”

Finally, they went home peacefully and exchanged numbers.

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Although these two characters do not really know each other personally, if I could change one thing about the story it would be that Bit and Simeon should be friends. Even though they don’t share the same struggles in their life they could be really good friends. For example, Bit acts big and strong on the outside since he is the leader of the “Low Cuts”. He punches other kids when they make fun of his friends and steals loose change from people but he is very soft on the inside. Since one of Bit’s parents is a cancer survivor on the inside he has very sensitive feelings. While on the other hand Simeon is very tall and kind. He gives everyone high fives and is friends with everyone. If anyone is mean to his friends he would just glare at them and they would know the message but, Simeon is very soft on the inside. He cares for Kenzi, his best friend, a lot because he feels that guilt that his older brother stole a car and Kenzi’s older brother took the blame for it. For that reason Simeon feels that he has to protect Kenzi. They would make very good friends because they both act differently on the outside then on the inside.

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How A Boy Can Become A Grease Fire Resolving the Conflict

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How A Boy Can Become A Grease Fire Resolving the Conflict

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By Itamar Moyal

Then Gregory thought, but maybe not. “So uh what do you want Gregory,” Sandra said in a weird tone that sounded like she didn’t even want to be there. Gregory started to sweat and get nervous. “Is it hot in here” Gregory squeaked quietly. “Uh I just, I mean I want to say that” Gregory kept stuttering with his words which made him and Sandra feel uncomfortable. “Listen Gregory I respect you for cleaning yourself up and trying to impress me, but I just don’t think I’m ready for this yet” Sandra uttered softly. “Well I guess I should get out of here” Gregory said with a devastated voice. “Bye” Sandra  said “bye” Gregory repeated. Sandra slams the door right in front of Gregory’s face leaving him heart broken.

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3. Several of the characters in the book are victims of bullying or harassment; think about Pia, Stevie, Bryson, and Ty. 

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3. Several of the characters in the book are victims of bullying or harassment; think about Pia, Stevie, Bryson, and Ty. 

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How do these characters respond when they are bullied or harassed?

These characters in Look Both Ways by Jason Reynolds are bullied and harassed in many ways. For example, Pia gets bullied by Marcus and his gang which leads them to break her skateboard. Stevie, who is a part of the gang even though he doesn’t want to be, tells his mom about all the things that have happened. How Marcus and his gang bullied, harassed, and blackmailed him by making him join the gang or they would keep harassing him. How Ty is bullied and called names for kissing a guy which happened because the other guy ,Slim, kissed him. Bryson steps in and stands up for Ty and even kisses him to show it’s not weird. After reading this book many different situations and chapters have bullying and harassment which show how much people have to learn to not do this. As a result of this problem many kids like Pia, Stevie, Bryson, and Ty have been bullied and harassed. This book shows the discomfort of these things so in the real world they have to stop.

Which character do you think deals with the problem in the healthiest way?

Stevie deals with his problems in the healthiest way possible in my opinion by finally telling his mom. He told her about how he was bullied, harassed, and even blackmailed. Since he was blackmailed he was a part of the gang when Marcus broke Pia's board so he tried to repay her. Stevie tried to give Pia her board by going to her school and giving the pieces of her skateboard back but she left out the backdoor instead of the front. This shows that Stevie was trying to help Pia get over the accident and try to explain what happened. In my opinion these are the most healthy ways someone in this book has dealt with their problem. Stevie is a good kid but was forced and bullied to be someone he isn’t.

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Dear Mr. Reynolds,

Thank you for speaking up about anxiety and stress in your novel, “Look Both Ways”. You were able to show readers about different types of anxiety, like Fatima writing stuff down in her notebook, to Canton and his panic attacks. We even got to see Satchmo deal with his anxiety about dogs through his imagination. It brings more attention to anxiety, and shows how all the different characters handle it. It also shows kids some healthy ways, and also some unhealthy ways to deal with stress. In addition, thank you for teaching people that there is more than one side to everyone, and you can’t judge someone by their first impression. In conclusion, thank you for bringing more attention to anxiety and first impressions.

Sincerely,

Evelyn Ricci

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Look Both Ways Thank You Note- Carney Cohen #1

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Look Both Ways Thank You Note- Carney Cohen #1

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Dear Mr.  Reynolds,

I wanted to thank you for writing this amazing book. This book has inspired  me to think about each person in my life and what may be their point of  view. You made me realize that everyone has a different backstory, and that you shouldn’t stereotype people. In addition, I read a book the other day that wasn’t nearly as good. Look Both Ways incorporated many different interesting things. For instance, the other book I read was in the same genre as this one, and still didn’t include a story about kids questioning their sexual identity. I found this was very  interesting in Look Both Ways. In conclusion, thank you for creating such an extraordinary novel.

Sincerely,

Carney Cohen

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Hey Jason Reynolds,
Your book, Look Both Ways,  really interested me in many ways. But the way you interested me the most is how you wrote about how anyone can impact the world in their own way. This makes me super confident about what I am going to do to change the world when I grow up. Also, I love this book because of how entertaining it was- especially chapter 9 “How a boy can become a grease fire.” This chapter was not only my favorite but also the best because of how page-turning it is. You would think that Gregory Pitts- a boy who doesn't have good hygiene wouldn't be able to ask out a girl and for her to become his girlfriend also like the friendship between Gregory Pitts and his four other friends because they are telling the truth so he knows how to fix it so it doesn't get embarrassed. These are only a few reasons why I admire you and your book so much. Thank you for writing your book like this.

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Dear Mr. Reynolds,

I just wanted to thank you for bringing up important issues in your book. As well as being an inspiration to me and giving me ideas for when I’m older, and what I want to  attempt to become. The important issues you bring up can probably change the way we act today. Less bullying, less violence during childhood, and other things like that. I have been through pretty bad stuff in the Bronx. I've been through the fighting between my mom and dad, bullying when I was in kindergarten and fourth grade, and the list goes on. But, you have taught me a lesson. The lesson was to look up from all of the bad in the world. In the book you made with characters I can relate to with similar issues. I find this book entertaining because of the adventures in all ten chapters.

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Dear Jason Reynolds,

Thank you for bringing attention to the LGBTQIA+ community in the chapter "Call of Duty."  Lots of the time people in this community are discriminated against and face homophobic/transphobic comments or actions everyday. Lots of people upset these people, however these people never know why.  I could write multiple paragraphs about this but to get to the point it is helpful to have a positive representation of them and to bring awareness of what these people have to go through every day.

From, Jack Governale

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Dear Mr. Reynolds,

I just wanted to say that I thank you for teaching me to “look both ways”. Although this might have not been your purpose for writing the book, you taught me, and many others, to not just look at one side of a person’s perspective, but to also look at multiple perspectives of the person. You taught me that the world isn’t black and white, but colorful and diverse. Fatima, Pia, Canton, and all other characters were all different, but managed to tell one big lesson, and I applaud you for doing something like that. Lessons like these made me inspired to change myself. I want to be able to get to know people better and to know what they have been through. I hope you can change other people like you changed me. Again, thank you for inspiring and teaching me and many other people through your wonderful books.

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The stories from the novel, “The Broom Dog” and “How a Boy Can Become a Grease Fire”, have a similar theme of overcoming fear with the help of others. The story, “The Broom Dog” is about a boy, Canton, who came over his anxiety with the help of Mr. Munch, the school custodian. Additionally, the story, “How a Boy Can Become a Grease Fire” is about how Gregory overcame his fear with the help of his friends. The difference between the two stories is that Canton became anxious and troubled all the time due to his mother’s accident, however, Gregory became worried and concerned because he was going to tell Sandra how he felt about her. Additionally, another difference is that Mr. Munch talked with Canton, took him on walks, and did breathing exercises together with him to help him feel better. Yet, Gregory’s friends helped Gregory by cleaning him up and by putting different kinds of lotion on him to help smooth out his dry skin. Furthermore, a similarity between the two stories is that Gregory and Canton both changed after overcoming their fears. At the beginning of “How a Boy Can Become a Grease Fire”, Gregory was very nervous and anxious, but towards the end, after he overcame his fear, Gregory felt more confident and self-assured than in the beginning. Similarly, at the beginning of “The Broom Dog”, Canton seemed to be uneasy and quite stressed, however, when he came over his fear at the end of the story, Canton became uplifted and untroubled. These two stories had similarities and differences, yet gave out a similar theme full of inspiration.

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Dear Mr. Reynolds,

I am happy that I read your book “ Look Both Ways”  because it taught me so many important life lessons. The book was very entertaining and full of detail. It is very inspirational in so many ways. You show how to be a better person by not bullying and not stereotyping people based on how they look. This made me think about what life is really like. Friendship, truth, faith, success, failure, bullying and many things that can lead you to be who you are. This book has so much to it that can teach children how to look at life and how to be a better person.

Regards, Shelly Koblenz

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Dear Mr. Reynolds,

Hello.

I think the book you wrote, Look Both Ways is very inspirational for young readers like myself. I like how you made each chapter with a different main character who is suffering from health issues, family matters, or bullying. This book spoke up for a lot of different people and I am sure some could relate to the characters. A lot of people don’t realize that people around them could be suffering, or feeling alone. Actually, some days ago, I approached another student who was walking alone from school. I talked to them until we parted different ways. That moment reminded me of some characters from the book walking home from school. They helped their friend do something or cheered them up. This book taught me the importance of having friends to have your back and help you in different situations. I learned that some people need a little push for them to face their fears.

Sincerely,

Madison

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Halfway through, he glanced up. Sandra was smiling. And Gregory thought maybe it was the kind of smile that came just before laughing. Then Gregory thought, But maybe not. “I had so much fun tonight. But there is something I want to tell you”. He said. Gregory’s cheeks were like a bright red apple, or like he just finished a high-intensity workout. “I been really wanting to get this off my chest”.  He paused for a minute, regretting that sentence. “Never mind,” Gregory said in regret. “What Gregory, you can tell me anything” .Then Gregory’s hands started to sweat. “ I have a crush on you Sandra, I really like you.” Sandra’s face showed relief, “I was about to say the same thing Gregory”. Sandra, do you consider this our first date,” Gregory said. “Of course.” Sandra replied. “Sandra, do you want to go stargazing,” Gregory asked. “Sure,” Sandra said. That night, the stars and moon were so bright and there was a perfect breeze. Gregory then whistled and the his friend Joey handed him roses. “These are for you Sandra”. She smiled and they watched the stars.

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Maybe if Stevie had confronted Marcus after the incident with Pia it would’ve been different. Maybe Stevie and Marcus would’ve finally sorted out their differences. Maybe Stevie would even become friends with Marcus, and he would learn from and change his ways. Maybe he would’ve taken the broken pieces of Skitter and pierced them back together out of the good in his heart. Maybe after school, he would’ve gone and found Pia and returned Skitter safe and sound. Maybe he would’ve apologized, and told her that he was sorry, and knew that sorry couldn’t make up for what happened.

But he did.

And after Marcus’s long, stuttered apology, he nervously fidgeted with his tie. Stevie stood behind him, patting him on the back “It’s the thought that counts bro,” he reminded him.

Pia looked him straight in the eye, as if trying to read his mind. Then, she punched him in the arm. Not exactly a hard punch, but hard enough to make Marcus’s arm sore for a few minutes.

“OW! WHAT WAS THAT FOR?!?” Marcus complained, cradling his arm like a baby.

“There. Now we’re even.” Pia responded cooly.

“Sooo….That’s it? You’re not even going to say thank you to us for fixing Skittles?” Marcus asked. Stevie punched him.

“OW! AGAIN? THAT’S THE SAME SPOT MAN-”

Pia cut him off, “Her name is Skitter. And no. I deserved her back.”

Marcus laughed, “You name your board? And it’s a girl?”

Stevie elbowed him in the gut, “That’s the same old bully routine, slow down Marky.”

“Look, Marky.” Pia started, glaring at him, “You don’t understand half of what Skitter means to me, and our history. Don’t even start. You don’t know anything about me or Santi.”

“W-who’s Santi?” He asked. Stevie nodded in agreement.

“You wanna know who Santi is? You wanna know what happened to her? Well she was my older sister. She was the smartest, kindest, most beautiful girl I knew. She was my role model.But a stupid boy, who you remind me a bit of, got jealous of how well she skated, and that stupid boy was stupid enough to send her straight into oncoming traffic. Are you happy?”

Marcus gulped, as if searching for words. “I’m sorry. For you. For Santi. For the boy being stupid enough to do...that. And I’m sorry for what I did. I was the stupid boy. And neither you, nor Santi deserved that.” Stevie nodded in agreement, standing to the side. “Oh, and I’m sorry Stevie. For all those months of bullying and for pressuring you into helping me.”

There was a moment of pin drop silence, before Pia spoke.

“Do you wanna come to her grave with me?” she whispered.

Stevie and Marcus exchanged glances, “Sure.” Marcus responded quietly.

The beginning of the walk to the grave was filled with quiet conversations. By the time they got there, there were shrieks of laughter, loud conversations and jokes echoing through the streets. Pia had punched both of them gently in the arm multiple times, this time playfully.

“How’d you ever learn how to skate?” Stevie asked Pia.

“Santi taught me. I fell a lot at the beginning. That’s how I got this.” she rolled up her sleeve, showing them the moon-shaped scab on her elbow.

Marcus opened his mouth like he was going to say something, then quickly closed it again.

“What were you going to say?” Pia encouraged him.

“Can you teach me? How to skate?” he said, hesitantly.

Pia grinned, looking down at Santi’s grave fondly, “Maybe.”

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Melody Na - "Look Both Ways" End of Novel Padlet Response

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Melody Na - "Look Both Ways" End of Novel Padlet Response

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Yes, I think that the author’s new information changed the way I look at the characters. I think that new information can validate their previous actions because we would know why and the reason for their actions and not just judge on the outside. According to the text from chapter 2,  “The Low Cuts Strike Again”, “And it was this, not the cancer but the strain it put on everyone, that formed the Low Cuts. They all cut their hair down to almost bald—a sign of solidarity—and started stealing.” (Reynolds 22). This validates why they did that because the reason why they cut their hair short and that the changes that they stole were for their parents who had cancer. They needed money for them and before I knew this, I felt like they were troublemakers who stole money from others and who everyone is scared of because they are like gangs. For instance, from chapter 7, Satchmo’s Master Plan”, “The dog had taken a chunk out of the back of Satchmo’s leg, left teeth marks that scarred in the shape of a sad face.” (Reynolds 119). This validates Satchmo’s previous actions because now we know why he got scared of dogs and why his mother became a vet. If I didn’t know this information before reading, I would have thought that why would he be scared of dogs without any experiences and why would his mother suddenly become a vet. I would think of him as just a boy who is scared of everything and his mother as a person who wants to be a vet for no reason.

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Option #2 Throughout the book, several characters who lash out or are “rough around the edges” are revealed to be facing difficulty at home.  In your opinion, does his new information change the way you look at the characters?Does it validate their previous actions?

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Option #2 Throughout the book, several characters who lash out or are “rough around the edges” are revealed to be facing difficulty at home.  In your opinion, does his new information change the way you look at the characters?Does it validate their previous actions?

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The information that reveals what is happening at home does greatly change the way I look at the characters, Bit and Marcus. Marcus is a school bully and he and his gang do not care about anyone’s emotions or feelings. Marcus especially targets kids like Stevie, weak, vulnerable, and helpless. Marcus knows that Stevie can’t do anything about this, so he keeps going after him, picking on him every chance he gets. In the beginning, Marcus seems like a total jerk, just pushing Stevie around for no reason at all but later, the truth is revealed. Marcus lives in a household where his mom is constantly getting abused and harassed by his father. Parents are supposed to be role models but Marcus does not know any better since he is still young and is constantly witnessing these violent actions. Because of this, he probably thinks that it is ok to go out and do it to someone else. Another possible conclusion to why Marcus is such a bully is because he is frustrated and angry. He is confused and doesn't understand why this is happening to him. No child should ever be put in this situation where he continuously watches one of his parents harassing and abusing the other. Marcus does not know where to go in this situation and the feeling of being lost angers him, so he takes his rage out on other people. Bit on the other hand is not exactly a bully but he is someone that no one wants to mess with. Bit is always seen as intimidating despite his small size, and is known to be aggressive and have a bit of a temper. Besides his gang, it seems that everyone wants nothing to do with him. On the outside, he’s all icy and tough to break but his inside reveals that he’s a warm marshmallow. All of the steps that he went through, while often ignoring common manners and being his stone cold front self, was all just to get his mother, who is suffering from cancer, a cup of vanilla ice cream. These actions do not totally validate these actions but it adds some understandability to the situation. If the deep truth was not revealed, readers would imagine a whole different image of what these characters are like.

Issac Cho

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Dear Mr. Reynolds,

Thank you for writing this wonderful life-lessoned novel. This really made me understand that people should never pick on someone because they might have another side of their story. This story is very entertaining, especially the first chapter, with the booger story. This novel causes me to think differently about friends. I found it very inspirable for many people. I think this novel also helped other kids besides me realize who you should always look to both sides of someone's story. Thank you again for all the inspirational lines you wrote.

From,
Zoe

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Choice Number 1
Hello Jason Reynolds,

Reading this book has inspired me in a way, to think about how can I change the world. I loved reading these stories because the characters were relatable and the characters had great motives. I hope others will enjoy reading this story, and hope that this book will be read for years to come.

Sincerely,
Eugene

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Dear Mr. Reynolds,

Hello! I really enjoyed your book Look Both Ways. It was great to read 10 different stories about a simple walk home and it greatly entertained me. Thank you for reminding me about some of the social issues that many people in this world have to face like bullying. This book made me acknowledge how you appearances can be deceiving and how you should know both sides of the story. This is an inspiration to me and how important friendships are to a person. Thank You!

Sincerely,
Theo Jeon

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Dear Mr. Reynolds,

Thank you for writing such great books for me to read. I love the style of writing you have included in all of your books. I have read “Look Both Ways”, “Stamped”, and my favorite book, "Ghost." The book I have just read with my class is “Look Both Ways.” In this book, I love the way you use 10 different perspectives because it shows different people and what they all are going through. Also, it teaches me different life lessons every chapter. The title, Look Both Ways, always means something different in each character’s story because they are all different and going through different things in their life. You have taught me to “Look Both Ways” for everything in life. Your writing style is very unique and very enjoyable to read.

Keep up the good work!

Sincerely,

Ryan Cho (Demarest Middle School, NJ)

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If I could make any two characters in the book friends, I would choose Cynthia and Canton. I choose these because I believe that they are made for each other. Canton was dealing with stress and anxiety. This made him not be like himself just like Cynthia was when her grandma died. I think that if Cynthia was friends with Canton than she would be back to making people laugh, and Canton would stop stressing about his mom.

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8. Choose one of the following stories to rewrite the ending and resolve the conflict. (How A Boy Can Become Grease Fire)

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8. Choose one of the following stories to rewrite the ending and resolve the conflict. (How A Boy Can Become Grease Fire)

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Gregory sighed. He looked into Sandras eyes. “I...don't know” Gregory was trembling. “Oh, alright then,” Sandra said.

A long silence followed for a minute or two. Gregory thought, should I say it? Finally, after a couple of seconds, Gregory got the courage to just say it out loud. “Hey, Sandra...I've been wanting to tell you this for a long time...I-” A phone rang. “Oh, sorry give me a second,” Sandra interrupted.

Gregory waited patiently for Sandra to finish the phone call. He fixed his hair making sure it looked ok. He rehearsed his line in his head. I've been wanting to tell you this for a long time. I like you. No no no! Umm...I am starting to develop feelings for you. Wait but what if she rejects me? Ugh

“Hey!” Sandra came running back. “Im back. Sorry. So uh what were you saying before?” Gregory shook again. “I uh… listen, I've started...uh developing...feelings for you” I… said it He thought. Sandra's face froze and she was shocked. Did I hear that right? She thought. Gregory's heart skipped a beat, waiting for her reaction. “I...um...what?” Sandra was definitely speechless. “Um...are you being serious?” Gregory replied nervously, “y-yes” Sandra said, “O-oh...really? I'm so sorry...I don't...feel the same way.” Gregory was heart-broken. He felt awful. “Well u-uh I have to go. Sorry, bye-” And he ran off with a feeling of despair. Sandra just stood there, feeling very bad for him. Sigh

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8. Choose one of the following stories to rewrite the ending and resolve the conflict. (How A Boy Can Become A Grease Fire)

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8. Choose one of the following stories to rewrite the ending and resolve the conflict. (How A Boy Can Become A Grease Fire)

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“What are you doing?” Sandra asked. “You ain’t… trying to blow no kisses, are you?”

“No, no!” Gregory’s voice jumped an octave. Maybe two. Almost whistle-high. Gregory’s face turned red like a tomato, his lips still puckering, puckering from the VapoRub.

“Yuh-huh. Definitely.” Sandra responded sarcastically. She gave Candace a look saying: Yo, he ain’t going crazy, is he? Sandra tried to keep in a laugh so big that her face turned as bright as Gregory’s.

Once she calmed down, she stared at him, up and down, over and over, until everyone got dizzy.

“Hey you, this ain’t some joke or nothing, right?” Sandra rolled her eyes. Remi and Joey exchanged looks.

Joey stepped forward, angry, looking like he was about to “knock some sense” into Sandra, but Candace stopped him. Sandra slowly stepped backward with a face of disgust.
“This is ridiculous, I don’t got no time for this. I’m going back inside.” Sandra said while nodding her head “no”, the “walking backward” turning more into a “turning around and running away.”

The door slammed behind her as Gregory fell to the ground. Remi and Joey went up to Gregory as Candace ran towards Sandra’s front door.
“Open up, Sandra!” Candace roared while banging on the door.

No response.

“This ain’t funny. Look at him, he got all ready for you!” Candace called out, still banging on the door. Candace looked back to see Gregory sitting on the floor on the verge of tears. Candace backed away from the front door and started walking to Gregory.

“Listen, Greg, she didn't deserve you anyway. Cheer up.” Candace announced, in a panic.

“Nah, nah. I didn't deserve her.”

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Started as nothing,
Maybe if I tried at something,
Maybe if I thought about trying something,
Maybe if I hadn’t run away from my problems and cowered in fear of the creatures that feed on my fear,
I could have faced the fear and fought it,
with my mind, my soul, my body I could have thought it out my memories,
Accessories of mine no more, my soul and mind free of the pit of chance,
Maybe if I worked hard at something for once,
Maybe if they knew that I was here and here to be friends with them,
Maybe if I’d done something noticeable,
Then I could have been important--something, anything,
Maybe if I thought I didn’t need to be something,
Maybe then I wouldn’t be the person I am right now
And maybe then I would be the person I hate right now,
And maybe then, just maybe, the me if I did those things would've said, "shouldn't have."

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Sophia Pavlov (#8 "How A Boy Can Become A Grease Fire”)

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Sophia Pavlov (#8 "How A Boy Can Become A Grease Fire”)

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Then Gregory thought, But maybe not. Turns out Sandra was joking around with Gregory, in fact she taught it was funny and cute the way that he tried to impress her. The two both stood their awkwardly trying to form a sentence…
“You know I’d really-” Gregory mumbled
“If you ever wanna call me heres my-” Sandra stumbled
“If you ain’t gonna commit-” Gregory attempted to finish the statement
After all the attempting, striving, and trying Gregory ran up to Sandra and kissed her on the cheek. Sandra could not believe the fact that Gregory Pitts; the stinky and yucky smelling boy, kissed her on the cheeks.

The moment Gregory’s VapoRub lips touched Sandra’s cheek he ran down the stair before he could even ask if she wanted his number. Yet Gregory’s squad was there to tell him that Sandra really wanted his number. Once Gregory was informed, his red face turned around and he had the courage to ask Sandra for her number.

20 years later…

“I do” came from Gregory
“I do” came from Sandra
“You may now kiss the bride” came from the pastor
Following the 20 years of childhood romance, to high school romance, to college romance, to seriously falling in love, Gregory and Sandra Pitts finally got married. Terrance and Jasmine Jumper, Pia and Steve Munson, Bryson and Ty Carson, all attended the marriage, happily married. Terrance and Gregory had become best buddies and they would do many things together, while new bestfriends Jasmine and Sandra would get their manny-petties, go shopping, and do many more things together.

30 years later…

Gregory and Sandra tought that it would be best if they focus on religion once they got married, so after they retired they both started working a local church. Every Sunday they would attend church to sing gospel and pray, but on a particular Sunday at 3:33 pm Cynthia Stevens walked into the church room. She did what every one else was doing, praying. But once the church was over she cracked some jokes with Gregory and Sandra, while drinking coffee at the new cafe on the corner of Portal Ave.

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And Ty nodded once more. Bryson took Ty inside to the bathroom and began to clean off Ty’s hand. Once the blood was all gone “Hey thanks again bro” Ty said, drying his hands. “Yeah no problem, I wouldn’t want you to get an infection. That would suck” Bryson said, leaving the bathroom. “Hey, Ty do you want to stay for a little?” Bryson said, with some wholesome in his voice. “Sure” Ty quickly answered. By this point, both the boys were sitting down on Bryson’s bed playing video games.

The next day at school, it was quiet, no one was saying nothin’ about what happened. Ty was relieved. After the bell rang everyone ran out of school. Bryson went over to Ty and said, “hey again, is your hand better?”. “Yeah, it’s all good, thanks again,” said Ty, beginning to walk away. “Hey are you free to come over?” Bryson said, looking at his feet. “Yeah, of course, I am always down for bro time!” When they get to Bryson’s house they sit down on Bryson’s bed and start to play video games.

After Ty has dinner he got a text, he checked it under the table and blushed at Bryson’s name. The text read, “Hey man thanks for coming over today.” Ty texted back, “Yeah no problem like I said I love to have bro time”. When Ty ran upstairs and went to his locked diary. Ty unlocked the diary and wrote, “one day you will find out, one day you will”

After Bryson had dinner he texted Ty, “Hey man thanks for coming over today”. Then he impatiently waited for Ty to respond. Ding! “Yeah no problem like I said I love to have bro time”. When Bryson saw the text Ty slowly sent he blushed, Bryson walked upstairs and opened the door to his bedroom. Bryson opened his computer and wrote in his safe notebook and wrote, “I wish I could tell you, one day.” Bryson and Ty wanted to tell each other something, what could it be?