Summarize Sometimes the Tough Teen is Quietly Writing Stories, (in additional files) by Matt de la Pena. After you address the main points of de la Penas work, reflect on a time when you were introduced to
something that shifted you; similar to how reading Alice Walkers The Color Purple sparked de
la Penas love for reading and writing.
The life shifting experience could be a book you read. Or a vacation you took. Or a class you
took. Give thought to experiences that have had a lasting impression on who you are. You may
have even initially resisted the experience. Your narrative should have a beginning, middle, and
end.
Also, use figurative language to add emphasis to your narrative. You may try to emphasize a
point by using simile (Think back to the Xray example in Shitty First Drafts; comparing two
dissimilar things for effect). You may want to review the Masterclass article Writing 101: What
is Figurative Language? for examples of literary devices to use in your writing.
Then, in your conclusion, connect your experience back to de la Penas writing.
Assignment Requirements:
MLA format
Works cited page
The summary should be in THIRD PERSON (Avoid using any first or second person
pronouns, unless it is a direct quote)
The narrative may be in first person
Summary/Narrative should be no longer than 2 — 3 pages
This is not two separate essays. The summary should transition into the narrative
Avoid quoting in the summary: Use your own words