AP Literature, Summer Reading

AP English Literature and Composition (Senior Course, English IV AP)

Summer Reading

Part I: Read a novel

• Read That Hideous Strength by C.S. Lewis.  Any edition is fine.  This is the third and finest book of his Space Trilogy series.  It can be read alone, so you don’t have to read the first two in the series.  Book one is Out of the Silent Planet and introduces our main character, Dr. Ransom.  He is kidnapped by malicious scientists and taken to Malacandra (the planet Mars); he meets the lord of the planet and is restored to Earth.  Book two is Perelandra: Ransom must fight a satanic enemy to keep the planet (Venus) from succumbing to its version of original sin.  Book three (That Hideous Strength, your assignment) features the climactic battle on Earth.  We will focus on Lewis’ writing technique and critique of modern assumptions.  Mark your text when you have found a discussion-worthy passage along either of those lines; also mark passages you find confusing.  Be prepared to discuss the book when you return. 

Part II: Write at least one college application essay or personal statement

•  Research schools that interest you.  Find their essay prompts, and write to at least one.  The UC prompts often remain the same, year to year (http://www.universityofcalifornia.edu/admissions/how-to-apply/apply-online/index.html). Most private schools use the Common Application (https://www.commonapp.org/CommonApp/default.aspx).  Other schools have their own application.  You will have to research your school to see what is expected.  Have at least one rough draft printed to show me on our first day of school. 

If you want to review an application essay over the summer or have any questions, please email.

Enjoy the day,

Mr. Schwager (marcusschwager@mvcs.org )