The First Stone by Don Aker is a powerful and poignant novel about the complexities of human relationships, the power of forgiveness, and the importance of standing up for what is right.
The novel follows the story of Jamie, a high school student who is struggling to come to terms with the recent death of his mother and the resulting strain on his relationships with his father and sister. As he navigates the challenges of grief and family dynamics, Jamie finds himself caught up in a web of lies and deceit when he witnesses a group of boys bullying and harassing a classmate, Shannon.
Despite the risks to his own safety and reputation, Jamie decides to stand up for Shannon and report the incident to the school authorities. This decision sets off a chain of events that leads to the uncovering of a deep-seated culture of bullying and abuse at the school, and ultimately forces Jamie and those around him to confront the harsh realities of their own actions and choices.
One of the most compelling aspects of The First Stone is the way it delves into the inner lives and motivations of its characters. Aker does an excellent job of creating fully-realized, three-dimensional characters who are struggling with their own demons and insecurities. Jamie's journey from self-doubt and inaction to courage and self-acceptance is particularly moving, and the supporting characters are equally well-developed and believable.
Ultimately, The First Stone is a thought-provoking and poignant exploration of the human experience. It tackles difficult themes such as grief, abuse, and the importance of standing up for what is right with sensitivity and nuance, and ultimately leaves the reader with a sense of hope and the belief that even in the darkest of times, it is possible to find the strength and courage to heal and move forward.
The First Stone by Don Aker
I love his friend group and their dynamics minus the fact that they're sometimes a really bad influence and I loved rooting for him and hoping he would be able to change for the better. Awsome writer Possible Spoilers. Realistically overcoming a tumultuous past is bumpier. I did feel bad for her, but she just felt like a necessary consequence to the main character's growth and not like an actual character. Initially, Reef had to go and talk to students about his experience and what he learned from it, but after he was done his sentence, he still kept going to schools to share his story. Recommended by my 17 year son and I'm glad that I listen to him. All his new and old friends helped Reef understand and change one way or another.
The First Stone
Orders: 34 The amount of original essays that we did for our clients Rating: 4. Reef absolutely adored his grandmother. And after he starts volunteering. Reef is a complex character and it is fun to see how his change in character affects the relationship he has with others. This book was pretty awesome, I have to admit. And after that stupid judge makes him move to yet another foster home, school, and has him volunteer at this lame rehab place,all just for probation. But I was afraid, too.
The First Stone by Don Aker
Overall I really enjoyed the story and would maybe read it again one day. Colville, the person giving oversight to his schooling and volunteering is too perfect making him a flat character. Reef, the bad boy, and Leeza, the good girl; it was like that in a way. Since he would hang around her, once he started changing she was there to help him all the way. I love his friend group and their dynamics minus the fact that they're sometimes a really bad influence and I loved rooting for him and hoping he would be able to change for the better. She cared about others, constantly tried to do the right thing. He also likes to throw stones from bridges over roads.
Analysis Of Don Aker's The First Stone
A stone hurled in rage shatters both their lives and throws them together in the most unexpected way—and offers them a chance at healing. Although the elements of the story that were presented during the first half of the book were important and relevant, I just wish it didn't drag on for so long. The lessons learned in this novel were heartbreaking and yet heartwarming. Way to go Reef!! He is a member of the Writers' Federation of Nova Scotia WFNS , the Writers' Union of Canada TWUC , the Canadian Children's Book Centre CCBC , The International Board on Books for Young People IBBY , the Canadian Society of Children's Authors, Illustrators, and Performers CANSCAIP , and PEN Canada. He wanted to be someone better then he was. This is a must read I have to give this YA novel 5 stars.
To view it, I read The First Stone on the recommendation of another teacher as a potential text for a grade 11 college class. But when forced to public service at a hospital Reef and Liza cross paths, which could have huge repercussions. And after finding out Leeza had been that "some girl" he almost killed. One stone can do so much damage. She was his mother figure in his life until she passing away. I recommend everyone read this book, it starts off slow, but you won't regret this great read :. Born in 1955 in Windsor, Nova Scotia, Don Aker grew up in rural Hants County.
