Literary Arts Summer Assignments
Freshmen:

Zen in the Art of Writing by Ray Bradbury

Write 30 journal pages (front and back) to be turned in the first week.
Poetic Traditions:
Best American Poetry, 2013 by David Lehman
Literary Forms:
Beowulf, Seamus Heaney translation
Fiction:

Select and read four works of fiction from various genres. Works should have literary
merit. A collection of short fiction is acceptable (counts as one work). At least one work
should be outside the student’s preferred genre.

Write a two-page reflection of each work. Reflections should be written in Times New
Roman, 12 pt. font, double-spaced.

Readings and reflections will be discussed during the first week of class.

Write one original (no recycled stories) short story in the 5-7 page range. Pieces will be
collected on the first day.
Sophomores:

Select and read one collection of poetry and write a two-page reflection. Reflections
should be written in Times New Roman, 12 pt. font, double-spaced.

Select and read one work of fiction (collection of short stories or a novel) and write a
two-page reflection. Reflections should be written in Times New Roman, 12 pt. font,
double-spaced.

Select and do a close reading a major feature article from a newspaper or magazine and
write a two-page reflection. Reflections should be written in Times New Roman, 12 pt.
font, double-spaced.
Seniors

Prepare the first 30 pages of your senior thesis project. These pages must be polished and
submission worthy. Students are strongly encouraged to exceed the recommended page
requirements.

Approved (5) novelists must have a complete draft on the first day of classes.

Read five works in the same genre as your senior thesis: poetry, novel, nonfiction, short
story.