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Katie Byrd

Latest John Green novel fresh air for the young adult reader

Last updated Monday, February 6, 2012 - 3:51pm

I received my copy of "The Fault in Our Stars" on Jan. 10, six months after my parents pre-ordered it for my 17th birthday.

After discovering the package in my mailbox, I quickly cast aside my English homework and raced through the book. Back when I asked my parents for the gift, I knew I would have quite a wait until the January release date, but having read each of the author's other novels, I knew it would be worthwhile. I can now say, with certainty, that John Green's new novel was well worth the six-month wait, as it was the best belated birthday present I have ever received.

Without giving away too much of the plot, "The Fault in Our Stars" (Dutton Juvenile, $17.99) tells the story of Hazel Lancaster, a 16-year-old girl living with thyroid cancer. When Hazel's parents force her to attend a cancer kids support group, she meets and falls in love with Augustus Waters, a boy with osteosarcoma.

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Illustration by WINNIE CHOW/Clearfield High School/tricklingrain@yahoo.com

College tours help high schoolers made big decisions

Katie Byrd Standard-Examiner

Last updated Monday, December 5, 2011 - 12:04pm

FOr many high school students, college tours can be one of the most imoprtant factors when choosing a college. Tours are the best way to learn what the school has to offer: from football to financial aid, as well as the details students usually don't think to ask about like transportation, food and libraries

There are several options when planning a visit to a college campus. Some high schools organize visits so students see the campus and hear from an admissions officer. This type of tour is helpful because of its convenience -- especially if the school isn't nearby -- but sometimes these tours can feel rushed and impersonal.

Kelsey Haddox, a senior at Ogden High School, visited Southern Utah University as part of a summer leadership academy. Students toured the campus and attended guest lectures.

"I learned that the class sizes there are very small and you are able to get to know professors on a personal basis," Haddox said. "While I was there I did apply to the school. The idea of a close-knit school with students from everywhere was appealing and the tour did impact my decision."

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