In this excerpt of the novel The Notebook, by Nicholas Sparks, Allie is the main speaker. ... You understood my need for my own space, my own studio and saw beyond the paint on my clothes and in my hair, and sometimes on the furniture. ... You are my best friend, and my lover, and I don"t know which side of you I enjoy the most. ... For we both know what my prognosis will mean to us. ... My life with you. ...

• Word Count: 2012
• Approx Pages: 8
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: High School

I remember the simple misplace of my notebook becoming into a full-size war with my mother. Suddenly, my brainless comment on leaving, rewinds over and over in my mind, leaving me with only sorrow and regret. ... I see my little black boots in the air and turn around to see my mother pushing me swiftly, letting me be fearless and unafraid. ... Slowly, I stop the force underneath my legs and gently step off the swing, my single retreat to live my dreams and overlook my fears. ... I ring the doorbell with tears falling to my cheeks, waiting only for my mother to be at the other side....

• Word Count: 519
• Approx Pages: 2
• Grade Level: High School

I told myself it was one of my more endearing qualities. ... And since, as a rule, I do, I found it easy to change my non-post-haste ways. ... Or you can carry a notebook and pen and write a curmudgeonly essay on how you hate to be kept waiting. ... ACTUALLY, I find that being made to wait bothers me a lot less now that I'm eight years into my new career. ... Waiting in my car for drop-offs and pickups. ...

• Word Count: 812
• Approx Pages: 3
• Grade Level: High School