"Remember, the test over Lord of the Flies will be Friday. Fall break is over, people, let's get back into the routine," Mrs. Hilliard calls to us as we exit the classroom. "Remember, if you haven't turned in your Chapter Twelve analysis. . ."

Her voice fades as I wander out the door and down the hallway. Everyone seems miserable today, all hoping for one more day of fall break. It is always hard to come back after a week of relaxation.

The principals muffled voice sounds above us, rambling about Homecoming, the next football game, college visits, and other events I would love to forget about. Being in the...