BIBLIOGRAPHY:
Anderson, Laurie Halse. 1999. SPEAK. New York: Farrar Strauss Giroux. ISBN 9780374371524
SUMMARY:
The book starts out at the beginning of Melinda's freshman year in high school. Something happened during the summer that makes it difficult for her to go back to school because the girls who were her friends will no longer talk to her. She feels like an outcast because of the way the others at school treat her. It is not until about half way into the book that the author reveals exactly what happened to make others treat Melinda as they do. This is where we find out that there was a drinking party and Melinda called the police. Others are angry with her for calling, but what they don't know is that Melinda was a victim of rape at the party. Melinda does not talk about it until she finds someone; Mr. Freeman, the art teacher, in whom she can begin to tell her secret. Eventually, the truth about that night surfaces as she is able to "speak" about it. The reason she is finally able to speak comes from the Andy, the senior boy who raped her at the party, attempting to rape her again.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS:
SPEAK has a powerful lesson that teenagers could learn. Readers will be sympathetic to Melinda because most readers have probably been through a situation of feeling like an outcast in their own school. Date rape or party rape might even be topics that teenagers have heard about. The characters are believable in the realistic fiction story. Melinda is likeable and the situations certainly will hit home with many. Students, parents and teachers should read this to get a sense of what some teenagers go through. A good picture of what adolescent life can be like with hurt, isolation and ultimately moving out of the hurt.
AWARDS/REVIEW EXCERPTS:
BOOKLIST EDIOR'S CHOICE: BOOKS FOR YOUTH, 1999 - ALA; United States
YALSA BEST BOOKS FOR YOUNG ADULTS, 2000 - ALA; United States
BOOKLIST - "In her YA fiction debut, Anderson perfectly captures the harsh conformity of high-school cliques and one teen's struggle to find acceptance from her peers."
VOYA - This extremely well-written book has current slang, an accurate portrayal of high school life, and engaging characters."
CONNECTIONS:
ART - Have students pick objects out of a bowl just as Melinda's art class did in the novel.
RESEARCH - Groups can do research on different topics. Examples: Date rape, Womens' rights, Sexual assualt.
GUEST SPEAKER - Invite speaker from Rape Crisis Center to give information and local agencies who are available.
Thursday, May 5, 2011
RULES by Cynthia Lord
BIBLIOGRAPHY:
Lord, Cynthia. 2006. RULES. New York: Scholastic Press. ISBN 9780439443822
SUMMARY:
Twelve year old Catherine is growing up with the challenges of being an adolescent, but she also must learn to deal with her younger brother David who is autistic. Catherine loves her brother but also experiences feelings of impatience, frustration, embarrassment and protectiveness towards him. As she tries to deal with David's behaviors she creates rules to help manage his behavior. Catherine also meets another person who is handicapped at the clinic where David goes for therapy. Jason, is in a wheelchair and talks using cards that he points to for communication. As she becomes friends with Jason, Catherine struggles with her own thoughts about what friends and others will think of her having a handicapped friend.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS:
The characters in RULES are ones that every young child can relate to or learn from. Catherine is presented with challenges that most kids experience at sometime in their lives. David is a character that some will relate to and some will not. David's autism is a condition that seems to be more and more in the news these days. Jason, a wheelchair bound character, might be a character that others identify with or sympathize with. The setting is in modern day America and could be any place in America. The setting seems to be timeless so it makes this story a good one that will withstand time. The theme is mostly about compassion and understanding people with disabilities. Also, important is the concept of accepting those with disabilities.
While listening to the audio version of the book, I found it enjoyable to hear the voices of the characters and especially the voice of Ms. Almasy and Catherine. I got totally absorbed in the story as I listened and found that I did not want to quit. I read some of the book and listened to parts of it and thought that I preferrd listening to reading.
AWARDS/REVIEW EXERPTS:
JOHN NEWBERRY MEDAL, 2007 - Honor Book United States
NOTABLE CHILDREN'S BOOKS, 2007 - ALSC American Library Association, United States
BULLETIN OF THE CENTER FOR CHILDREN'S BOOKS - "Readers with sympathize with Catherine's struggle to explain the world to David throug his beloved rules and her frustration at his demanding, embarrassing behaviors and his garnering the majority of parental attention."
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL - "Lord has candidly captured the delicate dynamics in a family that revolves around a child's disability,"
KIRKUS REVIEWS: "Middle-grade readers will recognize [Catherine's] longing for acceptance and be intrigued by this exploration of dealing with differences."
CONNECTIONS:
Research Autism and living with autism. Websites:
http://www.autism-resources.com
Guest Speaker-Invite a doctor or specialist to talk to students about autism.
Lord, Cynthia. 2006. RULES. New York: Scholastic Press. ISBN 9780439443822
SUMMARY:
Twelve year old Catherine is growing up with the challenges of being an adolescent, but she also must learn to deal with her younger brother David who is autistic. Catherine loves her brother but also experiences feelings of impatience, frustration, embarrassment and protectiveness towards him. As she tries to deal with David's behaviors she creates rules to help manage his behavior. Catherine also meets another person who is handicapped at the clinic where David goes for therapy. Jason, is in a wheelchair and talks using cards that he points to for communication. As she becomes friends with Jason, Catherine struggles with her own thoughts about what friends and others will think of her having a handicapped friend.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS:
The characters in RULES are ones that every young child can relate to or learn from. Catherine is presented with challenges that most kids experience at sometime in their lives. David is a character that some will relate to and some will not. David's autism is a condition that seems to be more and more in the news these days. Jason, a wheelchair bound character, might be a character that others identify with or sympathize with. The setting is in modern day America and could be any place in America. The setting seems to be timeless so it makes this story a good one that will withstand time. The theme is mostly about compassion and understanding people with disabilities. Also, important is the concept of accepting those with disabilities.
While listening to the audio version of the book, I found it enjoyable to hear the voices of the characters and especially the voice of Ms. Almasy and Catherine. I got totally absorbed in the story as I listened and found that I did not want to quit. I read some of the book and listened to parts of it and thought that I preferrd listening to reading.
AWARDS/REVIEW EXERPTS:
JOHN NEWBERRY MEDAL, 2007 - Honor Book United States
NOTABLE CHILDREN'S BOOKS, 2007 - ALSC American Library Association, United States
BULLETIN OF THE CENTER FOR CHILDREN'S BOOKS - "Readers with sympathize with Catherine's struggle to explain the world to David throug his beloved rules and her frustration at his demanding, embarrassing behaviors and his garnering the majority of parental attention."
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL - "Lord has candidly captured the delicate dynamics in a family that revolves around a child's disability,"
KIRKUS REVIEWS: "Middle-grade readers will recognize [Catherine's] longing for acceptance and be intrigued by this exploration of dealing with differences."
CONNECTIONS:
Research Autism and living with autism. Websites:
http://www.autism-resources.com
Guest Speaker-Invite a doctor or specialist to talk to students about autism.
CALAMITY JACK by Shannon Hale and Dean Hale, illustrations by Nathan Hale
BIBLIOGRAPHY:
Hale, Shannon and Hale, Dean. 2010. CALAMITY JACK. New York: Bloomsbury. ISBN 9781599900766
SUMMARY:
CALAMITY JACK is a follow up to RAPUNZEL'S REVENGE. In this graphic novel,Shannon and Dean Hale tell their own version of the fairy tale, Jack and the Beanstalk. The first part is telling the original story in which Jack is a schemer who tries to help make his mother's life better. Jack makes a plan to go to Blunderboar's house because he, the giant, damanged Jack's mothers store and refused to pay for the damages. Jack schemes to steal the giant's goose. Here is where Jack buys the magic beans and is able to climb the beanstalk to get to Blunderboar's house. In the events that happen, Jack kills one of the giant's henchmen while cutting down the beanstalk. This makes the giant angry and he vows to get back at Jack.
Jack flees the city and meets up with Rapunzel. In this part of the book, Jack and Rapunzel go back where they find out that Blundergoar has taken over the city, kidnapped his mother, and is terrorizing the people. With action packed adventure, Jack teams up with Rapunzel to set things right in his own town.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS:
This graphic novel is well illustrated and beautifully told. It was everything a graphic novel for children should be and more. It used the old fairy tale retelling but had a completely new spin that wasn't worn out. Students will enjoy reading it and following the adventure as Jack pursues the giant. It also will keep students' attention with Jack's mischevious nature. A great graphic novel that will be fun for both students and adults.
AWARDS/ REVIEW EXCERPTS:
BOOKLIST GREAT GRAPHIC NOVELS FOR TEENS, 2011 - American Library Association, United States
YALSA - A 2001 Great Graphic Novel
KIRKUS - "Rapunzel's fans should not fear: This volume, though told from a male perspective, has all the pluck and verve of its predeccessor. Readers will relish their gleeful mix of fairy tale, adventure and romance."
VOYA - "Fans of the previous book will be happy to see this new installment, which should handily graner new fans as will."
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL - "This Western/steampunk/fairy tale combo is paced full of adventure, is loads of fun, and has broad appeal for all readers."
CONNECTIONS:
Compare and Contrast this tale to other fairy tales.
Research steampunk and draw some personal creations.
Hale, Shannon and Hale, Dean. 2010. CALAMITY JACK. New York: Bloomsbury. ISBN 9781599900766
SUMMARY:
CALAMITY JACK is a follow up to RAPUNZEL'S REVENGE. In this graphic novel,Shannon and Dean Hale tell their own version of the fairy tale, Jack and the Beanstalk. The first part is telling the original story in which Jack is a schemer who tries to help make his mother's life better. Jack makes a plan to go to Blunderboar's house because he, the giant, damanged Jack's mothers store and refused to pay for the damages. Jack schemes to steal the giant's goose. Here is where Jack buys the magic beans and is able to climb the beanstalk to get to Blunderboar's house. In the events that happen, Jack kills one of the giant's henchmen while cutting down the beanstalk. This makes the giant angry and he vows to get back at Jack.
Jack flees the city and meets up with Rapunzel. In this part of the book, Jack and Rapunzel go back where they find out that Blundergoar has taken over the city, kidnapped his mother, and is terrorizing the people. With action packed adventure, Jack teams up with Rapunzel to set things right in his own town.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS:
This graphic novel is well illustrated and beautifully told. It was everything a graphic novel for children should be and more. It used the old fairy tale retelling but had a completely new spin that wasn't worn out. Students will enjoy reading it and following the adventure as Jack pursues the giant. It also will keep students' attention with Jack's mischevious nature. A great graphic novel that will be fun for both students and adults.
AWARDS/ REVIEW EXCERPTS:
BOOKLIST GREAT GRAPHIC NOVELS FOR TEENS, 2011 - American Library Association, United States
YALSA - A 2001 Great Graphic Novel
KIRKUS - "Rapunzel's fans should not fear: This volume, though told from a male perspective, has all the pluck and verve of its predeccessor. Readers will relish their gleeful mix of fairy tale, adventure and romance."
VOYA - "Fans of the previous book will be happy to see this new installment, which should handily graner new fans as will."
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL - "This Western/steampunk/fairy tale combo is paced full of adventure, is loads of fun, and has broad appeal for all readers."
CONNECTIONS:
Compare and Contrast this tale to other fairy tales.
Research steampunk and draw some personal creations.
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Rodzina by Karen Cushman
BIBLIOGRAPHY:
Cushman, Karen. 2003. RODZINA. New York: Clarion Books. ISBN 0618133518
SUMMARY:
Karen Cushman writes this historical novel that tells the story of a 12 year old Polish American girl who boards an orphan train in Chicago with fears about traveling to the west and a life of unpaid slavery. Rodzina was young girl who had lost her whole family. Her 2 brothers were burned in a house fire, her father died while he was working and her mother passed away from fever. Rodzina lived on the streets of Chicago until an orpan agency picked her up. The novel is set in a time when Orphan Trains took orphans from cities in the east to find homes in the frontier lands out west during the late 1800's and early 1900's. Rodzina finds that the families interested in adopting her only wanted her for working, not as a daughter.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS:
RODZINA is and excellent historical fiction book probably best suited for upper elementary to middle school students. It tells good story and gives the imaage of the hardship, loneliness, fear and stuggles of orphaned children. It also looks at the history of the Orphan Train and the unwanted American children during the late 1800's. There is information about the origin of orphanages, orphan trains and a bibliography of resources for students to use as reference. This makes this selection all the more credible.
AWARDS/REVIEWS/EXCERPTS:
BOOKLIST TOP 10 HISTORICAL FICTION FOR YOUTH, 2003; ALA United States
CHILDREN'S LITERATURE CHOICE LIST, 2004; Children's Literature; United States
*CHILDREN'S LITERATURE- "The skill and finesse we have come to expect from Karen Cushman weaves a rich and powerful tale of self-discovery, and untimately, hope. The reader will find a detailed history of the orphan train and other similar efforts to 'rehabilitate' orphaned and unwanted children in the back of the book."
LIBRARY MEDIA CONNECTION- "This historical fiction novel is filled with the atmosphere of the late 19th century: Industrial Chicago, Indian relations, mail order brides, and more."
THE LORGNETTE- HEART OF TEXAS REVIEWS - This is an excellent choice for sixth grade and up. History and other social studies teachers can use this book for report material. Girls will love the strong heroine."
CONNECTIONS:
*Discussion: Orphans and what happened to them during the time period. How are orphans treated differently now than they were back then?
*Discuss the history of the Orpan train.
*Read THE MIDWIFE"S APPRENTICE
Cushman, Karen. 2003. RODZINA. New York: Clarion Books. ISBN 0618133518
SUMMARY:
Karen Cushman writes this historical novel that tells the story of a 12 year old Polish American girl who boards an orphan train in Chicago with fears about traveling to the west and a life of unpaid slavery. Rodzina was young girl who had lost her whole family. Her 2 brothers were burned in a house fire, her father died while he was working and her mother passed away from fever. Rodzina lived on the streets of Chicago until an orpan agency picked her up. The novel is set in a time when Orphan Trains took orphans from cities in the east to find homes in the frontier lands out west during the late 1800's and early 1900's. Rodzina finds that the families interested in adopting her only wanted her for working, not as a daughter.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS:
RODZINA is and excellent historical fiction book probably best suited for upper elementary to middle school students. It tells good story and gives the imaage of the hardship, loneliness, fear and stuggles of orphaned children. It also looks at the history of the Orphan Train and the unwanted American children during the late 1800's. There is information about the origin of orphanages, orphan trains and a bibliography of resources for students to use as reference. This makes this selection all the more credible.
AWARDS/REVIEWS/EXCERPTS:
BOOKLIST TOP 10 HISTORICAL FICTION FOR YOUTH, 2003; ALA United States
CHILDREN'S LITERATURE CHOICE LIST, 2004; Children's Literature; United States
*CHILDREN'S LITERATURE- "The skill and finesse we have come to expect from Karen Cushman weaves a rich and powerful tale of self-discovery, and untimately, hope. The reader will find a detailed history of the orphan train and other similar efforts to 'rehabilitate' orphaned and unwanted children in the back of the book."
LIBRARY MEDIA CONNECTION- "This historical fiction novel is filled with the atmosphere of the late 19th century: Industrial Chicago, Indian relations, mail order brides, and more."
THE LORGNETTE- HEART OF TEXAS REVIEWS - This is an excellent choice for sixth grade and up. History and other social studies teachers can use this book for report material. Girls will love the strong heroine."
CONNECTIONS:
*Discussion: Orphans and what happened to them during the time period. How are orphans treated differently now than they were back then?
*Discuss the history of the Orpan train.
*Read THE MIDWIFE"S APPRENTICE
Hattie Big Sky by Kirby Larson
BIBLIOGRAPHY:
Larson, Kirby. c2006. HATTIE BIG SKY. New York: Delacorte Press. ISBN 9780385733137
SUMMARY:
This book is about a 16 year old girl named Hattie Brooks. Hattie is an orphan l who lives with her aunt and uncle in Iowa in 1918. She inherits a homestead in Montana and travels on her own to claim the land. It is winter time and she has to learn to survive alone in bad conditions and try to figure out how she will build a fence on the homestead and grow crops so she can keep the land. She has less than a year to complete the task. This book also confronts the prejudice agains her neighbor, a German American farming his own land during World War I. When reading the book, it makes you feel as if you are right there with Hattie. The book includes letters that Hattie writes to her best friend who is in Europe fighting in the war.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS:
This is a heart warming Newberry Honor Book that tells of the historcial period during World War I. When you read the book, you feel as if you are right there with Hattie. This makes the book feel authentic as Larson uses wit to describe the struggles and joy of a common homesteader during World War 1. This historical novel portrays as a young woman struggling and facing terrible odds as she tries to build her own homestead. The effective way the author incorporates articles Hattie wrote for a newspaper and letters she wrote to a friend adds to the credibility and historic value of the book.
AWARDS/REVIEW EXCERPTS:
JOHN NEWBERRY MEDAL, 2007 Honor Book, United States
YALSA BEST BOOKS FOR YOUNG ADULTS, 2007 ALA, United States
TOP 10 WOMEN'S HISTORY BOOKS FOR YOUTH , 2007 BOOKLIST, United States
*BOOKLIST "Writing in figurative language that draws on nature and domestic detail to infuse her story with the sounds, smells, and sights of the prairie, she creates a richly textured novel full of memorable characters."
*CHILDREN'S LITERATURE "This well-researched and gripping novel firmly places its lively heroine in loneliness and debt on her rugged uncle's land claim."
CONNECTION:
Use this book to introduce to discuss the concept of settling the frontier and homesteading. Discuss the struggles of pioneer life.
Larson, Kirby. c2006. HATTIE BIG SKY. New York: Delacorte Press. ISBN 9780385733137
SUMMARY:
This book is about a 16 year old girl named Hattie Brooks. Hattie is an orphan l who lives with her aunt and uncle in Iowa in 1918. She inherits a homestead in Montana and travels on her own to claim the land. It is winter time and she has to learn to survive alone in bad conditions and try to figure out how she will build a fence on the homestead and grow crops so she can keep the land. She has less than a year to complete the task. This book also confronts the prejudice agains her neighbor, a German American farming his own land during World War I. When reading the book, it makes you feel as if you are right there with Hattie. The book includes letters that Hattie writes to her best friend who is in Europe fighting in the war.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS:
This is a heart warming Newberry Honor Book that tells of the historcial period during World War I. When you read the book, you feel as if you are right there with Hattie. This makes the book feel authentic as Larson uses wit to describe the struggles and joy of a common homesteader during World War 1. This historical novel portrays as a young woman struggling and facing terrible odds as she tries to build her own homestead. The effective way the author incorporates articles Hattie wrote for a newspaper and letters she wrote to a friend adds to the credibility and historic value of the book.
AWARDS/REVIEW EXCERPTS:
JOHN NEWBERRY MEDAL, 2007 Honor Book, United States
YALSA BEST BOOKS FOR YOUNG ADULTS, 2007 ALA, United States
TOP 10 WOMEN'S HISTORY BOOKS FOR YOUTH , 2007 BOOKLIST, United States
*BOOKLIST "Writing in figurative language that draws on nature and domestic detail to infuse her story with the sounds, smells, and sights of the prairie, she creates a richly textured novel full of memorable characters."
*CHILDREN'S LITERATURE "This well-researched and gripping novel firmly places its lively heroine in loneliness and debt on her rugged uncle's land claim."
CONNECTION:
Use this book to introduce to discuss the concept of settling the frontier and homesteading. Discuss the struggles of pioneer life.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
One Crazy Summer by Rita Williams-Garcia
BIBLIOGRAPHY:
Williams-Garcia, Rita. c2010. ONE CRAZY SUMMER. New York: Amistad. ISBN 9780060760892
SUMMARY:
This book is about Delphine, an eleven year old and her two sisters, Vonetta and Fern. The girls live with their father and grandmother in Brooklyn. In the summer of 1968, they find themselves traveling to Oakland, Califronia to spend part of their summer with their mother against their wishes. As the girls try to get to know their mother and why she abandoned them, they find out quickly that their mother did not really want them. She sends them to a Black Panther Day Camp to keep them out of her way. Cecile, the mother, works with the Black Panthers and through Delphine we learn aboutthe Black Panther movement of the 1960's and 1970's.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS:
Rita Williams-Garcia writes this story that tells of the revolutionary movement in California in the late 1960's. It is told from the perspective of 3 black teenage girls. The story is powerful and the characters believable. Readers will love the girls and gain insight into this period of history from a different point of view. The story will leave you with a good feeling inside yet also give you a better understanding and give you things to think about. The time and place are well defined and the characters are strong. It is an insightful look into a segment of American History that is seldom explored.
AWARDS/EXCERPTS:
CORRETA SCOTT KING AWARD, 2011 Winner Author United States
JOHN NEWBERRY MEDAL, 2011, Honor Book United States
SCOTT O'DELL AWARD FOR HISTORICAL FICTION, 2011 Winner United States
*KIRKUS Starred Review - "The depiction of time is well done, and while the girls are caught up in the difficulties of adults, their resilience is celebrated and energectically told with writing that snaps off the page."
* VOYA - "The historical details sprinkled throughout the book do not seem forced; rather, they lend authenticity to the settings, and the protrayal of the Black Panthers breaks with the harsher stereotypes."
CONNECTIONS:
*Discussion about being a homeless teenager. What do you think it would be like to be homeless? What do you think the challenges would be both away from school and at school?
* What did you learn about the Black Panther movement? Research articles written about Black Panthers.
Williams-Garcia, Rita. c2010. ONE CRAZY SUMMER. New York: Amistad. ISBN 9780060760892
SUMMARY:
This book is about Delphine, an eleven year old and her two sisters, Vonetta and Fern. The girls live with their father and grandmother in Brooklyn. In the summer of 1968, they find themselves traveling to Oakland, Califronia to spend part of their summer with their mother against their wishes. As the girls try to get to know their mother and why she abandoned them, they find out quickly that their mother did not really want them. She sends them to a Black Panther Day Camp to keep them out of her way. Cecile, the mother, works with the Black Panthers and through Delphine we learn aboutthe Black Panther movement of the 1960's and 1970's.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS:
Rita Williams-Garcia writes this story that tells of the revolutionary movement in California in the late 1960's. It is told from the perspective of 3 black teenage girls. The story is powerful and the characters believable. Readers will love the girls and gain insight into this period of history from a different point of view. The story will leave you with a good feeling inside yet also give you a better understanding and give you things to think about. The time and place are well defined and the characters are strong. It is an insightful look into a segment of American History that is seldom explored.
AWARDS/EXCERPTS:
CORRETA SCOTT KING AWARD, 2011 Winner Author United States
JOHN NEWBERRY MEDAL, 2011, Honor Book United States
SCOTT O'DELL AWARD FOR HISTORICAL FICTION, 2011 Winner United States
*KIRKUS Starred Review - "The depiction of time is well done, and while the girls are caught up in the difficulties of adults, their resilience is celebrated and energectically told with writing that snaps off the page."
* VOYA - "The historical details sprinkled throughout the book do not seem forced; rather, they lend authenticity to the settings, and the protrayal of the Black Panthers breaks with the harsher stereotypes."
CONNECTIONS:
*Discussion about being a homeless teenager. What do you think it would be like to be homeless? What do you think the challenges would be both away from school and at school?
* What did you learn about the Black Panther movement? Research articles written about Black Panthers.
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Witch-Hunt: Mysteries of the Salem Witch Trials by Marc Aronson
1.BIBLIOGRAPHY
Aronson, Marc. c2003. WITCH-HUNT: MYSTERIES OF THE SALEM WITCH TRIALS. New York: Atheneum Books for Young People. ISBN 06898486410
2.PLOT SUMMARY
The Salem Witch Tirals have intrigued and roused the curiosity of adults and adolescents for many years. Marc Aronson covers the topic as he tells what really happened during the trials in Salem Village in the late 1600s. He explains the trials, presents facts, myths and theories that surround teh trials as he provides a narrative of what actually took place. The book also includes a timeline of Puritan History and a notes and comments section that aids the reader in the understanding of the events of the Salem Witch Trials.
3.CRITICAL ANALYSIS:
This is a book that I would recommend because Aronson does a great job of explaining teh events of the Salem Witch Trials. Students will want to read it because even though it is about events of the late 1600s, it is based on teenage girls who become the changing factor in the village. The book is organized chronilogically which makes it easy to understand. Aronson's narrative creates a book that explains the aspects of all the people, accusers, victims, judges, and families, involved in the witch trials. Through his writing, Aronson encourages readers to think for themselves. This would be a great addition to a middle or high school library.
4. REVIEW EXCERPTS:
CHILDREN'S LITERATURE - "WITCH-HUNT is the curious and fascinating result of his latest inquiries. Taking the reader by the hand, Aronson walks him/her through the questions arising from the mass psychosis that overcame Salem in 1692."
KIRKUS- Starred Review "Not just about the trials but about the study of history itself, the volume includes a superb epilogue,notes and comments on trends in interpreting teh events, an a bibliography that offers a 'route map' for readers who want to research further."
VOYA - "Aronson offers a blend of primary source documentation, theory, and speculation about this compelling era. Challenged to llok beyond the few known facts, Aronson encourages readers to examine the accusers' motivations through many diverse theories."
5. CONNECTIONS:
*Divide students into groups to research the Puritan's beliefs on the specific topics, so they can better understand the role a Puritan believed played in society. Suggestions for topics: Woman, Slavery, Wealth and Work Ethic, Children Personal Responsibility.
* Create a map of Salem Town and Salem Village properties in 1692 with collor key indicating the accused and the accusers. What patterns emerge from a map that might not emerge from just reading a text accounts of the Salem Witch Trials?
* Students write an essay answering the following question: Based on your understanding fo the motives behind the accusers during the Salem Witch Trials, do you see humans as essentially good or evil? State your opinion and give at least 3 reasons in detail to support your position.
Aronson, Marc. c2003. WITCH-HUNT: MYSTERIES OF THE SALEM WITCH TRIALS. New York: Atheneum Books for Young People. ISBN 06898486410
2.PLOT SUMMARY
The Salem Witch Tirals have intrigued and roused the curiosity of adults and adolescents for many years. Marc Aronson covers the topic as he tells what really happened during the trials in Salem Village in the late 1600s. He explains the trials, presents facts, myths and theories that surround teh trials as he provides a narrative of what actually took place. The book also includes a timeline of Puritan History and a notes and comments section that aids the reader in the understanding of the events of the Salem Witch Trials.
3.CRITICAL ANALYSIS:
This is a book that I would recommend because Aronson does a great job of explaining teh events of the Salem Witch Trials. Students will want to read it because even though it is about events of the late 1600s, it is based on teenage girls who become the changing factor in the village. The book is organized chronilogically which makes it easy to understand. Aronson's narrative creates a book that explains the aspects of all the people, accusers, victims, judges, and families, involved in the witch trials. Through his writing, Aronson encourages readers to think for themselves. This would be a great addition to a middle or high school library.
4. REVIEW EXCERPTS:
CHILDREN'S LITERATURE - "WITCH-HUNT is the curious and fascinating result of his latest inquiries. Taking the reader by the hand, Aronson walks him/her through the questions arising from the mass psychosis that overcame Salem in 1692."
KIRKUS- Starred Review "Not just about the trials but about the study of history itself, the volume includes a superb epilogue,notes and comments on trends in interpreting teh events, an a bibliography that offers a 'route map' for readers who want to research further."
VOYA - "Aronson offers a blend of primary source documentation, theory, and speculation about this compelling era. Challenged to llok beyond the few known facts, Aronson encourages readers to examine the accusers' motivations through many diverse theories."
5. CONNECTIONS:
*Divide students into groups to research the Puritan's beliefs on the specific topics, so they can better understand the role a Puritan believed played in society. Suggestions for topics: Woman, Slavery, Wealth and Work Ethic, Children Personal Responsibility.
* Create a map of Salem Town and Salem Village properties in 1692 with collor key indicating the accused and the accusers. What patterns emerge from a map that might not emerge from just reading a text accounts of the Salem Witch Trials?
* Students write an essay answering the following question: Based on your understanding fo the motives behind the accusers during the Salem Witch Trials, do you see humans as essentially good or evil? State your opinion and give at least 3 reasons in detail to support your position.
The Voice That Challenged A Nation by Russell Freedman
1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Freedman, Russell. c2004. THE VOICE THAT CHALLENGED A NATION. New York: Clarion Books. ISBN 0618159762
2. PLOT SUMMARY:
This biography is about Marian Anderson, an African American vocalist from a poor family who became famous. The biography focuses on two important aspects of Marian Anderson's life. The first, her own struggles to become a singer and the second, her role in the African American civil rights movement. Russel Freedman describes her life, her struggles, and her accomplishments. He shows how Anderson continued persuing her singing career and despite the limitations that she faced in the 1920's and 1930's when people of color were not given the same rights as white people. Through the efforts of people such as Eleanor Roosevelt, Anderson was allowed to sing on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial which led to desegregation in the area of arts. The book includes black and white photographs of her, her family and events and lyrics of some of her songs.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
This biography of Marian Anderson is beautifully told and inspiring as it tells of her struggles to overcome the difficulties associated with being African American and her quest for a singing career. Freedman brings her to life for the reader, accentuating characteristics the reader can relate to. He is able to bring to the surface that feeling of being left out that all can relate to. At the same time he emphasizes the seriousness of segregation. Freedman's account of Anderson's life is moving and inspiring and is enhanced by the addition of many black and white photographs showing her from age one all the way to her adult life. It also includes photographs of her family and song lyrics. Freedman's writing and accompanying photographs paint a picture of her struggles and brings her story to life. Students will learn and become captivated with the story of how this poor African American woman fights for her own success and fights for civil rights and makes a place in American History.
4. REVIEW EXCEPTS
* KIRKUS, Starred Review-"He offers instead a fully realized portrait of a musical artist and her times. Well-chosen, well-paced archival photographs, clear writing, abundant research seamlessly woven into the text, and careful documentation make an outstanding, handsome biography. Freedman at his best."
*THE BULLETIN OF THE CENTER FOR CHILDREN'S BOOKS - "Freedman offers the story of a movement encapsulated in the biography of an extraordinary African-American woman."
*VOYA- "Freedman creates a masterful biography of Marian Anderson. The prose is sharp and clean with generous use of quotations."
5. CONNECTIONS
*Social Studies: Tie this book into a lesson on Civil Rights. The biography will offer a story different from the typical stories about Civil Rights movements. This book could be read aloud to the class througout the study of Civil Rights or students could read it as a class literature selelction. Have class or small group discussions about events taking place in the life of Anderson as students read.
*Music: Have students study the musical vocabulary in this book and listen to recordings by Marian Anderson. Students may respond to the music in written form, or for others who enjoy performing, encourage them to perform for the class "He's Got the Whole World in His Hands or "My Country Tis of Thee".
*Website: The Marian Anderson Historical Society http://www.mariananderson.org/
Students can listen to her sing, find out more information about her, and view a photo gallery.
Freedman, Russell. c2004. THE VOICE THAT CHALLENGED A NATION. New York: Clarion Books. ISBN 0618159762
2. PLOT SUMMARY:
This biography is about Marian Anderson, an African American vocalist from a poor family who became famous. The biography focuses on two important aspects of Marian Anderson's life. The first, her own struggles to become a singer and the second, her role in the African American civil rights movement. Russel Freedman describes her life, her struggles, and her accomplishments. He shows how Anderson continued persuing her singing career and despite the limitations that she faced in the 1920's and 1930's when people of color were not given the same rights as white people. Through the efforts of people such as Eleanor Roosevelt, Anderson was allowed to sing on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial which led to desegregation in the area of arts. The book includes black and white photographs of her, her family and events and lyrics of some of her songs.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
This biography of Marian Anderson is beautifully told and inspiring as it tells of her struggles to overcome the difficulties associated with being African American and her quest for a singing career. Freedman brings her to life for the reader, accentuating characteristics the reader can relate to. He is able to bring to the surface that feeling of being left out that all can relate to. At the same time he emphasizes the seriousness of segregation. Freedman's account of Anderson's life is moving and inspiring and is enhanced by the addition of many black and white photographs showing her from age one all the way to her adult life. It also includes photographs of her family and song lyrics. Freedman's writing and accompanying photographs paint a picture of her struggles and brings her story to life. Students will learn and become captivated with the story of how this poor African American woman fights for her own success and fights for civil rights and makes a place in American History.
4. REVIEW EXCEPTS
* KIRKUS, Starred Review-"He offers instead a fully realized portrait of a musical artist and her times. Well-chosen, well-paced archival photographs, clear writing, abundant research seamlessly woven into the text, and careful documentation make an outstanding, handsome biography. Freedman at his best."
*THE BULLETIN OF THE CENTER FOR CHILDREN'S BOOKS - "Freedman offers the story of a movement encapsulated in the biography of an extraordinary African-American woman."
*VOYA- "Freedman creates a masterful biography of Marian Anderson. The prose is sharp and clean with generous use of quotations."
5. CONNECTIONS
*Social Studies: Tie this book into a lesson on Civil Rights. The biography will offer a story different from the typical stories about Civil Rights movements. This book could be read aloud to the class througout the study of Civil Rights or students could read it as a class literature selelction. Have class or small group discussions about events taking place in the life of Anderson as students read.
*Music: Have students study the musical vocabulary in this book and listen to recordings by Marian Anderson. Students may respond to the music in written form, or for others who enjoy performing, encourage them to perform for the class "He's Got the Whole World in His Hands or "My Country Tis of Thee".
*Website: The Marian Anderson Historical Society http://www.mariananderson.org/
Students can listen to her sing, find out more information about her, and view a photo gallery.
We Are the Ship: the Story of Negro League Baseball Words and paintings by Kadir Nelson
BIBLIOGRAPHY:
Nelson, Kadir. c2008. WE ARE THE SHIP: THE STORY OF NEGRO BASEBALL LEAGUE. New York: Jump at the Sun/Hyperion Books for Children. ISBN 0786808322
PLOT SUMMARY:
Kadir Nelson is not only the author ofthe book, but he also illustrates his story through his own paintings of baseball scenes and portraits of specific historical baseball figures. Nelson tells the story of Negro League baseball from its start in the 1920's to its end after Jackie Robinson left and went into the majors in 1947. WE ARE THE SHIP tells an important story that chronicles the struggle of great athletes to become players and their struggles and trials with discrimination of negroes in the 1900s. Readers will gain insite into what it must have been like to be a negro who could not play with white people.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS:
WE ARE THE SHIP is superbly written as Kadir Nelson narrates the story and has created paintings to go with each Inning, which was his creative way to name the chapters. In the 9 Innings, he brings to life the battles these baseball palyers faced when trying to do something they loved, play baseball. Readers will love this book because of its story and sensitivity given to the sport and players. The paintings that go with the story give it life and more credibility. While reading, you will get to meet the players and empathize with what they went through to play a sport they loved. Historically, readers will get a real sense of baseball and how it evolved. The large portraits and one fold out ticket replica for the 1st Colored World Series will capture your attention and give a different dimension to your reading. Baseball fanatics, as well as others will not be able to put the book down. Highly Recommened.
AWARDS/REVIEW EXCERPTS:
CORETTA SCOTT KING BOOK AWARD, 2009 Honor Book Illustrator United States
CORETTA SCOTT KING BOOK AWARD, 2009 Winner Author United States
ORBUS PICTUS AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING NONFICTION FOR CHILDREN, 2009 Honor Book United States
ROBERT F. SIBERT INFORMATIONAL BOOK MEDAL, 2009 Winner United States
* BOOKLIST Starred Review - "The stories and artwork are a tribute to the spirit of the Negro Leaguers, who were much more than also-rans and deserve a more prominent place on baseball's history shelves."
*KIRKUS REVIEWS Starred Review - "Nelson continues to top himself with each new book. Here, working solo for the first time, he pays tribute to the hardy African-American players of baseball's first century with a reminiscence written in a collective voice-" " Alomg with being absolutely riveted by the art, readers will come away with a good picture of the Negro Leaguers' distinctive style of play, as well as an idea of how their excellence challenged the racial attitudes of both their sport and their times."
*VOYA - "Gorgeous, larger-than-life oil paintings and a Negro League composite narrator, who reflects on the players' second-class-citizen lives filled with wit, melancholy, and determination, bring a historic battle against prejudice to life."
CONNECTIONS:
* Students can find out more about WE ARE THE SHIP by visiting the website http://www.wearetheship.com Learn about the book, author, making the book(with phots and videos) and traveling exhibits.
*Art- Studetns create baseball cards for 3 players from the Negro League. (5th Inning)
*Writing - Write a news report about Rube Foster. (1st Inning)
*Language Arts - Use a venn diagram to compare and contrast the Latin Leagues and the Negro Legues.(6th Inning)
Nelson, Kadir. c2008. WE ARE THE SHIP: THE STORY OF NEGRO BASEBALL LEAGUE. New York: Jump at the Sun/Hyperion Books for Children. ISBN 0786808322
PLOT SUMMARY:
Kadir Nelson is not only the author ofthe book, but he also illustrates his story through his own paintings of baseball scenes and portraits of specific historical baseball figures. Nelson tells the story of Negro League baseball from its start in the 1920's to its end after Jackie Robinson left and went into the majors in 1947. WE ARE THE SHIP tells an important story that chronicles the struggle of great athletes to become players and their struggles and trials with discrimination of negroes in the 1900s. Readers will gain insite into what it must have been like to be a negro who could not play with white people.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS:
WE ARE THE SHIP is superbly written as Kadir Nelson narrates the story and has created paintings to go with each Inning, which was his creative way to name the chapters. In the 9 Innings, he brings to life the battles these baseball palyers faced when trying to do something they loved, play baseball. Readers will love this book because of its story and sensitivity given to the sport and players. The paintings that go with the story give it life and more credibility. While reading, you will get to meet the players and empathize with what they went through to play a sport they loved. Historically, readers will get a real sense of baseball and how it evolved. The large portraits and one fold out ticket replica for the 1st Colored World Series will capture your attention and give a different dimension to your reading. Baseball fanatics, as well as others will not be able to put the book down. Highly Recommened.
AWARDS/REVIEW EXCERPTS:
CORETTA SCOTT KING BOOK AWARD, 2009 Honor Book Illustrator United States
CORETTA SCOTT KING BOOK AWARD, 2009 Winner Author United States
ORBUS PICTUS AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING NONFICTION FOR CHILDREN, 2009 Honor Book United States
ROBERT F. SIBERT INFORMATIONAL BOOK MEDAL, 2009 Winner United States
* BOOKLIST Starred Review - "The stories and artwork are a tribute to the spirit of the Negro Leaguers, who were much more than also-rans and deserve a more prominent place on baseball's history shelves."
*KIRKUS REVIEWS Starred Review - "Nelson continues to top himself with each new book. Here, working solo for the first time, he pays tribute to the hardy African-American players of baseball's first century with a reminiscence written in a collective voice-" " Alomg with being absolutely riveted by the art, readers will come away with a good picture of the Negro Leaguers' distinctive style of play, as well as an idea of how their excellence challenged the racial attitudes of both their sport and their times."
*VOYA - "Gorgeous, larger-than-life oil paintings and a Negro League composite narrator, who reflects on the players' second-class-citizen lives filled with wit, melancholy, and determination, bring a historic battle against prejudice to life."
CONNECTIONS:
* Students can find out more about WE ARE THE SHIP by visiting the website http://www.wearetheship.com Learn about the book, author, making the book(with phots and videos) and traveling exhibits.
*Art- Studetns create baseball cards for 3 players from the Negro League. (5th Inning)
*Writing - Write a news report about Rube Foster. (1st Inning)
*Language Arts - Use a venn diagram to compare and contrast the Latin Leagues and the Negro Legues.(6th Inning)
Thursday, March 10, 2011
HOOP KINGS by Charles R. Smith, Jr.
BIBLIOGRAPHY:
Smith, Charles R. JR. 2004. HOOP KINGS. Cambridge, Mass.: Candlewick Press. ISBN 0763614238
PLOT SUMMARY:
HOOP KINGS puts basketball players in verse form. It spotlights famous basketball players like Tim Duncan, Shaquille O'Neal, Kevin Garrett and Kobe Bryant. Each player, twelve in all, has an individual poem that describes and highlights the players best attribute. The poems are accompanied by large photos of the player. Each photograph illustrates the player in action with a spectacular display of athletic abiblity. An enormous actual-size footprint of Shaquille's basktball shoe accompanies his poem on a large fold out page in the book. The poems are also identified by the player's numbers instead of page numbers. To end the experience. Charle R. Smith, Jr. offers notes with a commentary on the player and why he wrote in the style that he did about that player.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS:
The basketball players that Smith chose to write about is probably one of the most appealing qualities of this book of poetry. His choosing current famous players makes this book appealing to many who might not otherwise choose a poetry book. The photographs of the players in action would be another factor that would draw reluctant readers to HOOP KINGS, especially boys who might not choose to read poetry. The display of Shaquilles' life size shoe print adds to the credibility of what the author says about the players. The author's admiration for the 12 talented male athletes is evident through is writings and the notes he adds about each at the end of the book. Sports fans of many ages would enjoy reading this poetry about the athletes in HOOP KINGS. Boys, especially who might not be interested in poetry, would find the book fun and entertaining. They may suddenly decide that poetty is interesting.
REVIEW EXCERPTS:
BOOKLIST - " Illuminating notes on each poem's style or central image tempt readers to turn back the pages for repeated looks."
COOPERATIVE CHILDREN"S BOOK CENTER CHOICES - "Twelve other NBA stars are celebrated in jamming action poems accompanined by large photographs embellished with electric designs."
LIBRARY MEDIA CONNECTION - "This is another visually impressive book by Charles Smith, Jr., who has authored other books that blend his love of basketball and poetry."
CONNECTIONS:
HOOP KINGS encourages students to read poetry that is different from traditional literature. Encourages the athletic student who otherwise might not read anything.
Use this book in a poetry unit. Divide class into groups and assign different kinds of poetry books. Let students discuss why they like the type of potry they chose and try writing their own poetry of the chosen type.
Smith, Charles R. JR. 2004. HOOP KINGS. Cambridge, Mass.: Candlewick Press. ISBN 0763614238
PLOT SUMMARY:
HOOP KINGS puts basketball players in verse form. It spotlights famous basketball players like Tim Duncan, Shaquille O'Neal, Kevin Garrett and Kobe Bryant. Each player, twelve in all, has an individual poem that describes and highlights the players best attribute. The poems are accompanied by large photos of the player. Each photograph illustrates the player in action with a spectacular display of athletic abiblity. An enormous actual-size footprint of Shaquille's basktball shoe accompanies his poem on a large fold out page in the book. The poems are also identified by the player's numbers instead of page numbers. To end the experience. Charle R. Smith, Jr. offers notes with a commentary on the player and why he wrote in the style that he did about that player.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS:
The basketball players that Smith chose to write about is probably one of the most appealing qualities of this book of poetry. His choosing current famous players makes this book appealing to many who might not otherwise choose a poetry book. The photographs of the players in action would be another factor that would draw reluctant readers to HOOP KINGS, especially boys who might not choose to read poetry. The display of Shaquilles' life size shoe print adds to the credibility of what the author says about the players. The author's admiration for the 12 talented male athletes is evident through is writings and the notes he adds about each at the end of the book. Sports fans of many ages would enjoy reading this poetry about the athletes in HOOP KINGS. Boys, especially who might not be interested in poetry, would find the book fun and entertaining. They may suddenly decide that poetty is interesting.
REVIEW EXCERPTS:
BOOKLIST - " Illuminating notes on each poem's style or central image tempt readers to turn back the pages for repeated looks."
COOPERATIVE CHILDREN"S BOOK CENTER CHOICES - "Twelve other NBA stars are celebrated in jamming action poems accompanined by large photographs embellished with electric designs."
LIBRARY MEDIA CONNECTION - "This is another visually impressive book by Charles Smith, Jr., who has authored other books that blend his love of basketball and poetry."
CONNECTIONS:
HOOP KINGS encourages students to read poetry that is different from traditional literature. Encourages the athletic student who otherwise might not read anything.
Use this book in a poetry unit. Divide class into groups and assign different kinds of poetry books. Let students discuss why they like the type of potry they chose and try writing their own poetry of the chosen type.
THE FIREFLY LETTERS by Margarita Engle
BIBLIOGRAPHY:
Engle, Margarita. 2010. THE FIREFLY LETTERS: A SUFFRAGETTES"S JOURNEY TO CUBA. New York: Henry Holt and Co. ISBN 9780805090826
PLOT SUMMARY:
Margarita Engle, A Cuban American poet wrote THE FIREFLY LETTRERS based on the diaries of Fredrika Bremer. The sroty of Cicilia , a teenage slave who was traded by her own father for a cow tells her feelings of living the life she was sold in to. Readers hear alternatley from Cecilia, Fredrika and Elena. Fredrka is an advocate for women's rights while Elena is a 12 year old Cuban who feels trapped in her world of wealth. The three characters explore the countryside in Cuban as they form a bond that will amaze and inspire readers.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS:
The writing of Margarita Engle takes the reader on a magical journey as she reveals the feelings of oppression that women and people of color have lived with througout history. The feelings and thoughts of the women are effectively communicated with the use of similes and metaphors. The book is based on historical events of a visit Fredrika Bremer took to Cuba in 1851. Her writings are a display of the author's powerful emotions through her simple verse. A simple to understand easy reading acount of historical fiction.
REVIEW EXCEPTS:
"And like the firefly light, Engle's poetry is a gossamer thread of subtle beauty weaving together three memorable characters who together find hope and courage." KIRKUS Starred Review.
"Through this moving combination of historcial viewpoints, Engle creates dramatic tension among the characters, especially in the story of Elena, who makes a surprising sacrifice." - BOOKLIST
"The easily digestible, poetic narrative makes this a perfiect choice for reluctant readers, students fo the women's movement, those interested in Cuba, and teens with biography assignments." - SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL
CONNECTIONS:
Use as an example of how potry can be used to tell a story with history integrated.
Discuss the friendships of the 3 women and what created the bond for the three women.
Engle, Margarita. 2010. THE FIREFLY LETTERS: A SUFFRAGETTES"S JOURNEY TO CUBA. New York: Henry Holt and Co. ISBN 9780805090826
PLOT SUMMARY:
Margarita Engle, A Cuban American poet wrote THE FIREFLY LETTRERS based on the diaries of Fredrika Bremer. The sroty of Cicilia , a teenage slave who was traded by her own father for a cow tells her feelings of living the life she was sold in to. Readers hear alternatley from Cecilia, Fredrika and Elena. Fredrka is an advocate for women's rights while Elena is a 12 year old Cuban who feels trapped in her world of wealth. The three characters explore the countryside in Cuban as they form a bond that will amaze and inspire readers.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS:
The writing of Margarita Engle takes the reader on a magical journey as she reveals the feelings of oppression that women and people of color have lived with througout history. The feelings and thoughts of the women are effectively communicated with the use of similes and metaphors. The book is based on historical events of a visit Fredrika Bremer took to Cuba in 1851. Her writings are a display of the author's powerful emotions through her simple verse. A simple to understand easy reading acount of historical fiction.
REVIEW EXCEPTS:
"And like the firefly light, Engle's poetry is a gossamer thread of subtle beauty weaving together three memorable characters who together find hope and courage." KIRKUS Starred Review.
"Through this moving combination of historcial viewpoints, Engle creates dramatic tension among the characters, especially in the story of Elena, who makes a surprising sacrifice." - BOOKLIST
"The easily digestible, poetic narrative makes this a perfiect choice for reluctant readers, students fo the women's movement, those interested in Cuba, and teens with biography assignments." - SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL
CONNECTIONS:
Use as an example of how potry can be used to tell a story with history integrated.
Discuss the friendships of the 3 women and what created the bond for the three women.
BLUE LIPSTICK by John Grandits
BIBLIOGRAPHY:
Grandits, John. c2007. BLUE LIPSTICK: CONCRETE POEMS. New York: Clarion Books. ISBN 9780618568604
PLOT SUMMARY:
BLUE LIPSTICK is a book of concrete poems written in the voice and thoughts of a 15 year old girl named Jessie. She writes the poetry to illustrate the typical concerns and thoughts of adolescents she and others like her face in a teenager's world. Jessie talks about things like new hairstyles, playing volleyball and cello, and dealing with her annoying little brother. The poems take the shape of their themes. For example, "All My Important Thinking Gets Done in the Shower" is written in the shape of water streaming out of a showerhead.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS:
BLUE LIPSTICK would be a great resource for showing students examples of concrete poems. The topics are those that middle and high schoolers would find interesting and relevant to their own lives. This book would be excellent for using with a poetry unit or for leisure reading. The design is simple and easy to read. Each of the 34 poems takes a certain shape as the author tries to paint a picture of what the teenager, Jessie, is talking about. As with any shape poem, the concreteness, adds to the meaning of the poetry. The topics that teenagers deal with are used in a way that it gives the reader a real insight into a teenager's thinking process. This book would be appropriate for any adolescent, but it would also be beneficial and interesting reading for parents and teachers of this age group.
REVIEW EXCERPTS:
LIBRARY MEDIA CONNECTION - "Purchase this thin, highly creative collection to involve teens in poetry in an engaging and humorous way. Recommended"
THE BULLETIN OF THE CENTER FOR CHILDREN'S BOOKS - "Design is friendlly and accessible... This has enough activity to appeal to fans of sophistocated poetry and enough energy to draw those who find the sophisticated stuff merely dull, and it will undoubtedly inspire a multitude of curricular uses."
LEE BENNETT HOPKINS POETRY AWARD, 2008 Honor Book, United States.
SCHOOL LIBRARY MEDIA JOURNAL BEST BOOKS, 2007
Notable Children's Books, 2008 ALSC
CONNECTIONS:
Students divide into groups of 2 or 3. Assign poetry to groups, Each group discusses poetry and Jessie's problem or idea presented in the poem. Come up with a solution to her problem.
Show exampels of concrete poetry. Students think of a topic that might be faced by adolescents. Write poem and make a large posster to present the poem.
Grandits, John. c2007. BLUE LIPSTICK: CONCRETE POEMS. New York: Clarion Books. ISBN 9780618568604
PLOT SUMMARY:
BLUE LIPSTICK is a book of concrete poems written in the voice and thoughts of a 15 year old girl named Jessie. She writes the poetry to illustrate the typical concerns and thoughts of adolescents she and others like her face in a teenager's world. Jessie talks about things like new hairstyles, playing volleyball and cello, and dealing with her annoying little brother. The poems take the shape of their themes. For example, "All My Important Thinking Gets Done in the Shower" is written in the shape of water streaming out of a showerhead.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS:
BLUE LIPSTICK would be a great resource for showing students examples of concrete poems. The topics are those that middle and high schoolers would find interesting and relevant to their own lives. This book would be excellent for using with a poetry unit or for leisure reading. The design is simple and easy to read. Each of the 34 poems takes a certain shape as the author tries to paint a picture of what the teenager, Jessie, is talking about. As with any shape poem, the concreteness, adds to the meaning of the poetry. The topics that teenagers deal with are used in a way that it gives the reader a real insight into a teenager's thinking process. This book would be appropriate for any adolescent, but it would also be beneficial and interesting reading for parents and teachers of this age group.
REVIEW EXCERPTS:
LIBRARY MEDIA CONNECTION - "Purchase this thin, highly creative collection to involve teens in poetry in an engaging and humorous way. Recommended"
THE BULLETIN OF THE CENTER FOR CHILDREN'S BOOKS - "Design is friendlly and accessible... This has enough activity to appeal to fans of sophistocated poetry and enough energy to draw those who find the sophisticated stuff merely dull, and it will undoubtedly inspire a multitude of curricular uses."
LEE BENNETT HOPKINS POETRY AWARD, 2008 Honor Book, United States.
SCHOOL LIBRARY MEDIA JOURNAL BEST BOOKS, 2007
Notable Children's Books, 2008 ALSC
CONNECTIONS:
Students divide into groups of 2 or 3. Assign poetry to groups, Each group discusses poetry and Jessie's problem or idea presented in the poem. Come up with a solution to her problem.
Show exampels of concrete poetry. Students think of a topic that might be faced by adolescents. Write poem and make a large posster to present the poem.
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
THE ARROW OVER THE DOOR by Joseph Burchac Pictures by James Watling
BIBLIOGRAPHY:
Bruchac, Joseph. c1998. THE ARROW OVER THE DOOR. pictures by James Watling. New York: Dial Books for Young Readers. ISBN 0803720785
PLOT SUMMARY:
This historical fiction book is based on events that took place during the Revolutionary War. Samuel Russell, a 14 year old Quaker boy, meets a young Abernaki Indian boy named Stands Straight. The two boys tell the story of conflict between the two cultures based on revenge of the Indians against the white man because Stands Straight's mother and brother were murdered by whitemen. Samuel's family is in a Quaker meeting when an Indian scouting group led by Stands Straight's uncle surrounds the cabin. After the Indians find out there are no weapons, they leave their bows and arrows outside and join the Quakers. At the end of the meeting, the two groups share a handshake of peace and Stands Straight's uncle places an arrow over the door of the cabin as a sign that the Quakers are peaceful.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS:
This story is a gripping account of a historical period in our country's formation. It is moving and powerful as a reminder of how peace can be achieved between two totally different nations or cultures. One of the especially appealing aspects of the story is that it is told from the teenage boys' points of view rather than from an adults. It brings out many different dilemnas that the boys must face as well as what their cultures face. Students will find ways that people with cultural differences can come together for the good of all. The story would be a good piece of literature to illustrate overcoming differences and how these have been evident throughout history.
The illustrations are simple in black and white, pen and ink type, which reflect the mood of the story. Reading and understanding the plot is simple, too. A 5th grader studying American history could easily read and understand the content and relate it to American History events.
REVIEW EXCERPTS:
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: "Full-page drawings in shades of gray fit the mood of the story without breaking the narrative flow. With a surprising amount of drama and even suspense, this tale of pacifism triumphant makes a good choice for historical fiction collections."
KIRKUS: "A delicate tale, very well told."
BOOKLIST: "A truly excellent example of historical fiction for the middle-grade/junior-high audience."
CONNECTIONS:
Have students keep a journal of their thoughts chapter by chapter as Samuel and Stands Straight alternately tell this tale.
Bruchac, Joseph. c1998. THE ARROW OVER THE DOOR. pictures by James Watling. New York: Dial Books for Young Readers. ISBN 0803720785
PLOT SUMMARY:
This historical fiction book is based on events that took place during the Revolutionary War. Samuel Russell, a 14 year old Quaker boy, meets a young Abernaki Indian boy named Stands Straight. The two boys tell the story of conflict between the two cultures based on revenge of the Indians against the white man because Stands Straight's mother and brother were murdered by whitemen. Samuel's family is in a Quaker meeting when an Indian scouting group led by Stands Straight's uncle surrounds the cabin. After the Indians find out there are no weapons, they leave their bows and arrows outside and join the Quakers. At the end of the meeting, the two groups share a handshake of peace and Stands Straight's uncle places an arrow over the door of the cabin as a sign that the Quakers are peaceful.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS:
This story is a gripping account of a historical period in our country's formation. It is moving and powerful as a reminder of how peace can be achieved between two totally different nations or cultures. One of the especially appealing aspects of the story is that it is told from the teenage boys' points of view rather than from an adults. It brings out many different dilemnas that the boys must face as well as what their cultures face. Students will find ways that people with cultural differences can come together for the good of all. The story would be a good piece of literature to illustrate overcoming differences and how these have been evident throughout history.
The illustrations are simple in black and white, pen and ink type, which reflect the mood of the story. Reading and understanding the plot is simple, too. A 5th grader studying American history could easily read and understand the content and relate it to American History events.
REVIEW EXCERPTS:
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: "Full-page drawings in shades of gray fit the mood of the story without breaking the narrative flow. With a surprising amount of drama and even suspense, this tale of pacifism triumphant makes a good choice for historical fiction collections."
KIRKUS: "A delicate tale, very well told."
BOOKLIST: "A truly excellent example of historical fiction for the middle-grade/junior-high audience."
CONNECTIONS:
Have students keep a journal of their thoughts chapter by chapter as Samuel and Stands Straight alternately tell this tale.
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
SWAMP ANGEL by Anne Isaacs
BIBLIOGRAPHY:
Isaacs, Anne. 1994. SWAMP ANGEL. Ill. by Paul O. Zelinsky. New York: Dutton Children's Boooks. ISBN 0525452710
PLOT SUMMARY:
SWAMP ANGEL is a tall tale about a Tennessee born girl baby who is giant sized. The tale follows her from the time of her birth through growing up and wrestling a bear named Thundering Tarnation. Swamp Angel does unbelievable tasks like building a log cabin when she was only 2 years old. Thundering Tarnation was causing problems all over Tennessee for the settlers. Swamp Angel decided to help the settlers hunt down the ferocious bear. All of the settlers who had hunted the bear had been wiped out. Swamp Angel was determined to bring him down. She wrestled him down and created the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee while persuing him. Eventually, she slayed him and brought back his enormous pelt which was too large to fit in Tennessee so she moved to Montana where the spread out pelt made what is now the Shortgrass Prairie. With the slaying of the bear, the settlers were able to feast on all kinds of bear delacasies, like bear cakes, steaks, muffins and wine.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS:
This tall tale is a bigger than life exageration written in true tall tale style much like those of Paul Bunyan and Pecos Bill. Part of the greatness of this tale is that it uses a woman as the central tall tale character. If you are looking for a heroine in a story, this would be an excellent choice. It introduces frontier life with humor that will keep children interested in the story until the very end. The illustrator, Paul O. Zelinsky, is highly acclaimed and shows his artistic talent through primitive style illlustrations painted on wood like pages. The use of wood like pages adds to the feeling of frontier life.
This would be a wonderful tale for ages 5-9. The larger than life adventure will keep children in amazement of the extraordinary challenges and feats that Swamp Angel tackles. It will amaze them and encourage their imaginations.
REVIEW EXCERPTS:
HORN BOOK, starred review: "Move over, Paul Bunyun, you are about to meet Swamp Angel, an original creation in the tall-tale tradition whose exploits are guaranteed to amaze and amuse a wide swath of readers... Visually exciting, wonderful to read aloud, this is a picture book to remember."
KIRKUS, starred review: "It is impossible to convey the sheer pleasure, the exaggerated loopiness of new comer Isaacs's wonderful story. Matching the superb text stride for stride are Zelinsky's altered-state, American primitive paintings -- gems that provide new pleasures, reading after reading."
CONNECTIONS:
Connect the story to American history and geopgraphy. Use maps toshow patterns of settlement in Tennessee. Discuss frontier life.
Compare and contrast with older elementary studetns by reading other tall tales, Paul Bunyun or Pecos Bill. Compare and Contrast characters.
Isaacs, Anne. 1994. SWAMP ANGEL. Ill. by Paul O. Zelinsky. New York: Dutton Children's Boooks. ISBN 0525452710
PLOT SUMMARY:
SWAMP ANGEL is a tall tale about a Tennessee born girl baby who is giant sized. The tale follows her from the time of her birth through growing up and wrestling a bear named Thundering Tarnation. Swamp Angel does unbelievable tasks like building a log cabin when she was only 2 years old. Thundering Tarnation was causing problems all over Tennessee for the settlers. Swamp Angel decided to help the settlers hunt down the ferocious bear. All of the settlers who had hunted the bear had been wiped out. Swamp Angel was determined to bring him down. She wrestled him down and created the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee while persuing him. Eventually, she slayed him and brought back his enormous pelt which was too large to fit in Tennessee so she moved to Montana where the spread out pelt made what is now the Shortgrass Prairie. With the slaying of the bear, the settlers were able to feast on all kinds of bear delacasies, like bear cakes, steaks, muffins and wine.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS:
This tall tale is a bigger than life exageration written in true tall tale style much like those of Paul Bunyan and Pecos Bill. Part of the greatness of this tale is that it uses a woman as the central tall tale character. If you are looking for a heroine in a story, this would be an excellent choice. It introduces frontier life with humor that will keep children interested in the story until the very end. The illustrator, Paul O. Zelinsky, is highly acclaimed and shows his artistic talent through primitive style illlustrations painted on wood like pages. The use of wood like pages adds to the feeling of frontier life.
This would be a wonderful tale for ages 5-9. The larger than life adventure will keep children in amazement of the extraordinary challenges and feats that Swamp Angel tackles. It will amaze them and encourage their imaginations.
REVIEW EXCERPTS:
HORN BOOK, starred review: "Move over, Paul Bunyun, you are about to meet Swamp Angel, an original creation in the tall-tale tradition whose exploits are guaranteed to amaze and amuse a wide swath of readers... Visually exciting, wonderful to read aloud, this is a picture book to remember."
KIRKUS, starred review: "It is impossible to convey the sheer pleasure, the exaggerated loopiness of new comer Isaacs's wonderful story. Matching the superb text stride for stride are Zelinsky's altered-state, American primitive paintings -- gems that provide new pleasures, reading after reading."
CONNECTIONS:
Connect the story to American history and geopgraphy. Use maps toshow patterns of settlement in Tennessee. Discuss frontier life.
Compare and contrast with older elementary studetns by reading other tall tales, Paul Bunyun or Pecos Bill. Compare and Contrast characters.
THE TRUE STORY OF THE 3 LITTLE PIGS by Jon Scieszka
BIBLIOGRAPHY:
Scieszka, Jon. 1989. THE TRUE STORY OF THE 3 LITTLE PIGS. Ill. by Lane Smith. New York: Viking Penguin. ISBN 060827592
PLOT SUMMARY:
This traditional tale turns out not to be so traditional. THE TRUE STORY OF THE 3 LITTLE PIGS begins with the wolf, Alexander T. Wolf, telling his side of the story. He says that the whole "Big Bad Wolf" thing is wrong and that the real story is about a cup of sugar and a sneeze. The wolf was trying to bake a cake for his granny when he ran out of sugar and had to go to the pig's house to borrow some. He went to 2 pigs' houses and sneezed as he was trying to borrow the sugar. This caused both houses to fall to the ground. At both houses, he ate the pigs because he didn't want the food to be wasted. At the last house, the pig told the wolf to go away and not to bother him. The wolf thought this was rude and suddenly began to sneeze again. Well, the cops show up as the wolf really was trying to break the door down because he was upset at the pig's rudeness. Alexander T. Wolf contends that he was a sick guy who only wanted to borrow sugar, and the pigs jazzed up the story and made him out to be a bad wolf. Acording to the wolf, he was framed and that landed him in jail.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS:
This little traditional tale has two themes. It is about how people thought the wolf was bad, but he really is not. He was a good guy just trying to make a cake for his granny. The author makes the reader stop and think about two ideas. First, people will judge you because of your past and personality. Second, don't believe everything you hear. Kids will also figure out that there are 2 sides to every story. The way the wolf tells the story is interesting because he actually makes you believe that he is telling the truth. The reader might also figure out that the pigs are not with out fault when the last pig said impolite things to the wolf.
The illustrations by Lane Smith are somewhat dark and grainy, but the illustrate the story effectively. These great pictures help the reader understand the action in the story. The wolf does not look like a bad guy which perfectly matches what the wolf wants us to believe.
This book would be understood best by older elementary students. Young primary grade students might not understand the underlying themes. Older students will understand it because they have most likely heard the original version. They will like the fact that the wolf gets to tell his version of the story.
REVIEW EXCERPTS:
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: "It's the type of book that older kids (and adults) will find very funny."
PUBLISHER'S WEEKLY: " Designed with uncommon flair, gaily newfangled version of the classic tale takes sides with the villian. Imaginative watercolors eschew realism, further updating the tale."
CONNECTIONS:
Lessons for teachers using THE TRUE STORY OF THE 3 LITTLE PIGS can be foundat these sites:
www.teachingheart.net/truepigs.html
www.teacher.scholastic.com/writewit/mff/fractured_fairy_true.htm
Scieszka, Jon. 1989. THE TRUE STORY OF THE 3 LITTLE PIGS. Ill. by Lane Smith. New York: Viking Penguin. ISBN 060827592
PLOT SUMMARY:
This traditional tale turns out not to be so traditional. THE TRUE STORY OF THE 3 LITTLE PIGS begins with the wolf, Alexander T. Wolf, telling his side of the story. He says that the whole "Big Bad Wolf" thing is wrong and that the real story is about a cup of sugar and a sneeze. The wolf was trying to bake a cake for his granny when he ran out of sugar and had to go to the pig's house to borrow some. He went to 2 pigs' houses and sneezed as he was trying to borrow the sugar. This caused both houses to fall to the ground. At both houses, he ate the pigs because he didn't want the food to be wasted. At the last house, the pig told the wolf to go away and not to bother him. The wolf thought this was rude and suddenly began to sneeze again. Well, the cops show up as the wolf really was trying to break the door down because he was upset at the pig's rudeness. Alexander T. Wolf contends that he was a sick guy who only wanted to borrow sugar, and the pigs jazzed up the story and made him out to be a bad wolf. Acording to the wolf, he was framed and that landed him in jail.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS:
This little traditional tale has two themes. It is about how people thought the wolf was bad, but he really is not. He was a good guy just trying to make a cake for his granny. The author makes the reader stop and think about two ideas. First, people will judge you because of your past and personality. Second, don't believe everything you hear. Kids will also figure out that there are 2 sides to every story. The way the wolf tells the story is interesting because he actually makes you believe that he is telling the truth. The reader might also figure out that the pigs are not with out fault when the last pig said impolite things to the wolf.
The illustrations by Lane Smith are somewhat dark and grainy, but the illustrate the story effectively. These great pictures help the reader understand the action in the story. The wolf does not look like a bad guy which perfectly matches what the wolf wants us to believe.
This book would be understood best by older elementary students. Young primary grade students might not understand the underlying themes. Older students will understand it because they have most likely heard the original version. They will like the fact that the wolf gets to tell his version of the story.
REVIEW EXCERPTS:
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: "It's the type of book that older kids (and adults) will find very funny."
PUBLISHER'S WEEKLY: " Designed with uncommon flair, gaily newfangled version of the classic tale takes sides with the villian. Imaginative watercolors eschew realism, further updating the tale."
CONNECTIONS:
Lessons for teachers using THE TRUE STORY OF THE 3 LITTLE PIGS can be foundat these sites:
www.teachingheart.net/truepigs.html
www.teacher.scholastic.com/writewit/mff/fractured_fairy_true.htm
Friday, January 28, 2011
The Three Pigs by David Wiesner
BIBLIOGRAPHY:
Wienser, David. 2001. THE THREE PIGS. Ill. by David Wiesner. New York: Clarion Books. ISBN 0618007016
PLOT SUMMARY:
David Wiesner writes and illustrates this picture book about the three little pigs with a non-traditional twist. The pigs are tormented as usual by the big bad wolf and decide to escape by turning the pages of the book into a paper airplane and flying away. They end up with the "cat and the fiddle" and "the cow that jumped over the moon" from nursery rhyme land and a dragon from another fairy tale. They return to their own story taking the dragon with them. When the big bad wolf comes back to blow the house down, he could not blow it down. The three pigs, the cat and the fiddle and the dragon live happily ever after.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS:
This Caldecott winner, THE THREE PIGS, is an example of the very creative writing of David Wiesner. He starts out telling a traditional tale and quickly grabs the attention of the reader and audience as the story unfolds in a non-traditional manner. The writing is creative, but the illustrations really take center stage as he uses two demensional and three demensional drawings. Some of the pictures actually seem to be coming off of the page. The art work captures a life like quality as the pigs and dragon come to life in three demensional reality. The writing takes on a different approach with the use of bubbles for dialogue similar to that of a comic book. This fractured fairy tale stands out from others because of the creativeness of the writer/illustrator. Children will find this tale exciting, different and adventursome as the find out the "happily ever after" ending.
REVIEW EXCERPTS:
New York Times, Book Review - "Wiesner's dialogue and illustrations are clever, whimisical and sophisticated."
School Library Journal, starred review - "Witty dialogue and physical comedy abound in this inspired retelling of a familar favorite."
Children's Literature - "A clever tale that will keepkids poring over every detail."
CONNECTIONS:
* The book encourages children to think differently from traditional literature.
* Read fairy tales and have students write a different ending.
Other fractured fairy tales:
THE STINKY CHEESE MAN AND OTHER FAIRLY STUPID TALES by Jon Scieska
SLEEPING UGLY by Jane Yolen
Wienser, David. 2001. THE THREE PIGS. Ill. by David Wiesner. New York: Clarion Books. ISBN 0618007016
PLOT SUMMARY:
David Wiesner writes and illustrates this picture book about the three little pigs with a non-traditional twist. The pigs are tormented as usual by the big bad wolf and decide to escape by turning the pages of the book into a paper airplane and flying away. They end up with the "cat and the fiddle" and "the cow that jumped over the moon" from nursery rhyme land and a dragon from another fairy tale. They return to their own story taking the dragon with them. When the big bad wolf comes back to blow the house down, he could not blow it down. The three pigs, the cat and the fiddle and the dragon live happily ever after.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS:
This Caldecott winner, THE THREE PIGS, is an example of the very creative writing of David Wiesner. He starts out telling a traditional tale and quickly grabs the attention of the reader and audience as the story unfolds in a non-traditional manner. The writing is creative, but the illustrations really take center stage as he uses two demensional and three demensional drawings. Some of the pictures actually seem to be coming off of the page. The art work captures a life like quality as the pigs and dragon come to life in three demensional reality. The writing takes on a different approach with the use of bubbles for dialogue similar to that of a comic book. This fractured fairy tale stands out from others because of the creativeness of the writer/illustrator. Children will find this tale exciting, different and adventursome as the find out the "happily ever after" ending.
REVIEW EXCERPTS:
New York Times, Book Review - "Wiesner's dialogue and illustrations are clever, whimisical and sophisticated."
School Library Journal, starred review - "Witty dialogue and physical comedy abound in this inspired retelling of a familar favorite."
Children's Literature - "A clever tale that will keepkids poring over every detail."
CONNECTIONS:
* The book encourages children to think differently from traditional literature.
* Read fairy tales and have students write a different ending.
Other fractured fairy tales:
THE STINKY CHEESE MAN AND OTHER FAIRLY STUPID TALES by Jon Scieska
SLEEPING UGLY by Jane Yolen
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Where The Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak
BIBLIOGRAPHY:
Sendak, Maurice. 1963. WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE. Ill. by Maurice Sendak. New York: Harper Collins. ISBN 9780060254926
PLOT SUMMARY:
This book tells the story of Max, who plays around causing "mischief" while dressed up as a wolf. He was acting wild and his mother punishes him by sending him to bed with no supper. In his imagination, his bedroom turns into a forest and he sails off to another land with other wild things where he is made "king of the all the wild things". He soon finds himself lonely for someone who loves him, smells his supper and returns back home to his bedroom. He finds his supper waiting for him when he gets there and it is still hot.
ANALYSIS:
Sendak's writing is clear and easy to understand. The topic is a good topic for children who want to play make believe and escape to a world where they are important and where there are no rules about behavior. Reality hits that things are not always better somewhere else. This book is appealing because of Max's conflct with his mother and the fact that kids can identify with Max's way of thinking. His escape to a place where he can be what he wants to be is a fantasy that many children can understand. Max's actions like chasing the dog and talking back to his mother are also universal actions that most children experience at sometime in their lives. Max is a realistic character who fantisizes like all children would.
This book is great because of the creative imagination of the author and his talented artistry. Students will enjoy the pictures, looking at Max and the wild things and figuring out what animals are portrayed as wild things. This book will capture children's attention. WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE is a book that children will want read to them again and again.
Review Excerpts:
Caldecott Medal - 1964
Notable Children's Books of 1940-1970 (ALA)
Boston Globe-Horn Book Award for Illustration - 1981
School Library Journal - "Each word has been carefully chosen and the simpliciity of the language is quite desciptive."
CONNECTIONS:
* Children can escape into a fantasy world.
* Children illustrate there own stories going to a make believe place.
Other books about behaving badly:
DAVID GETS IN TROUBLE by David Shannon
NO, DAVID by David Shannon
Sendak, Maurice. 1963. WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE. Ill. by Maurice Sendak. New York: Harper Collins. ISBN 9780060254926
PLOT SUMMARY:
This book tells the story of Max, who plays around causing "mischief" while dressed up as a wolf. He was acting wild and his mother punishes him by sending him to bed with no supper. In his imagination, his bedroom turns into a forest and he sails off to another land with other wild things where he is made "king of the all the wild things". He soon finds himself lonely for someone who loves him, smells his supper and returns back home to his bedroom. He finds his supper waiting for him when he gets there and it is still hot.
ANALYSIS:
Sendak's writing is clear and easy to understand. The topic is a good topic for children who want to play make believe and escape to a world where they are important and where there are no rules about behavior. Reality hits that things are not always better somewhere else. This book is appealing because of Max's conflct with his mother and the fact that kids can identify with Max's way of thinking. His escape to a place where he can be what he wants to be is a fantasy that many children can understand. Max's actions like chasing the dog and talking back to his mother are also universal actions that most children experience at sometime in their lives. Max is a realistic character who fantisizes like all children would.
This book is great because of the creative imagination of the author and his talented artistry. Students will enjoy the pictures, looking at Max and the wild things and figuring out what animals are portrayed as wild things. This book will capture children's attention. WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE is a book that children will want read to them again and again.
Review Excerpts:
Caldecott Medal - 1964
Notable Children's Books of 1940-1970 (ALA)
Boston Globe-Horn Book Award for Illustration - 1981
School Library Journal - "Each word has been carefully chosen and the simpliciity of the language is quite desciptive."
CONNECTIONS:
* Children can escape into a fantasy world.
* Children illustrate there own stories going to a make believe place.
Other books about behaving badly:
DAVID GETS IN TROUBLE by David Shannon
NO, DAVID by David Shannon
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Knuffle Bunny: a cautionary tale by Mo Willems
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)