Book Review on The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman

Please note that this blog has been created as an assignment for a TWU course.

1.  BIBLIOGRAPHY

Gaiman, Neil. 2009. GRAVEYARD BOOK. Ill. by Dave McKean. New York, NY: HarperCollins Publishers. ISBN 0061972657

2.  PLOT SUMMARY

One night, a man that goes by the name Jack, sneaks into the home of a family of four with the intent to kill each and every one of them in order to protect the order of the Jacks of All Trades that has been around for centuries.  He kills everyone except for the toddler.  According to a vision years ago, a boy born from a certain family will grow to adulthood and bring down the Order unless he is killed.  The toddler escapes the house and wanders up a hill to a nearby graveyard.  The man Jack is right behind him.  The ghost of the toddler’s mother asks one of the graveyard ghosts to protect her child and disappears.  The graveyard ghosts agree to raise and protect the child.  Silas, neither alive nor dead, agrees to be the child’s guardian until he is an adult and ushers the man Jack out of the graveyard and denies that any child had been there.  The man Jack leaves, but is determined to find the boy and kill him no matter how long it takes.  As Silas and the ghosts of the graveyard raise and protect the child, they teach the boy many different things that will help him in the future.  The boy is named Nobody Owens and goes by Bod.  He has many different adventures in the graveyard.  As long as he is in the graveyard, he will be protected.  As the story progresses, it is revealed that Silas is a member of the Honour Guards and goes to the extremes to protect Bod.  When Bod is eventually found by man Jack, he uses the lessons taught to him by Silas and the ghosts of the graveyard to resolve the situation.  At this time, the boy has grown into a man and leaves the graveyard to live his life.

3.  CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Gaiman’s writing is exciting and witty.  It captures the reader’s attention from the very first page maintains it throughout the book.  There is suspense, mystery, and some aspects of the story are scary.  Even though there are ghosts, sleers, and other creepy fantasy creatures, the underlying messages relate to everyday life.  For instance, his guardian told Bod to never leave the graveyard and bring attention to him because the man Jack was out there looking for him.  The little boy chose to leave the graveyard to sell a stone in order to buy a headstone for a ghost’s grave that did not have a headstone.  Of course he got in a bad situation, and needed help.  The message is to listen to your guardians because they want to protect you.  This is an excellent book for students that love science fiction.

Dave McKean’s illustrations serve the text very well.  The drawings are done in black and white and depict the creepy scenes.  The man Jack is a tall and dark figure.  He is always drawn at angles that avoid showing his face.  The boy is drawn throughout the book, evolving into a confident young man.

4.  REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

NEW YORK TIMES review: “THE GRAVEYARD BOOK, by turns exciting and witty, sinister and tender, shows Gaiman at the top of his form.  In this novel of wonder, Neil Gaiman follows in the footsteps of long-ago storytellers, weaving a tale of unforgettable enchantment.”

WASHINGTON POST review: “Like a bit of dark Halloween chocolate, this novel proves rich, bittersweet, and very satisfying.”

Starred review in KIRKUS: “Wistful, witty, wise—and creepy.  This needs to be read by anyone who is or has ever been a child.”

5.  CONNECTIONS

*Encourage students to write their own science fiction book.  Be open to their ideas and foster their interest in writing.  At the end of the task, praise students and have them share what they have written with other students in the school.

*Other books by Neil Gaiman:

Gaiman, Neil. 2009. CORALINE. ISBN 0061972630

Gaiman, Neil. 2009. M IS FOR MAGIC. ISBN 0061972673

Gaiman, Neil. 2009. ODD AND THE FROST GIANTS. ISBN 0061964875

Gaiman, Neil. 2009. STARDUST. ISBN 0061793078

Book Review on Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson

Please note that this blog has been created as an assignment for a TWU course.

1.  BIBLIOGRAPHY

Halse Anderson, Laurie. 2006. SPEAK. New York, NY: Penguin Group. ISBN 0142407321

2.  PLOT SUMMARY

In the summer right before her freshman year of high school, Melinda goes to a party.  She is raped under a tree by a senior.  After the rape occurred, she called the police intending to report the rape.  However, people at the party thought that she called the police to break up the party.  People at the party scattered and a few partygoers were arrested.  Amidst the chaos, Melinda left the party and walked home to an empty house, never reporting the rape.  Her friends and fellow classmates hate her for calling the police and are mean to her.  Melinda is isolated at school, has a dysfunctional home life, has been raped, and has no one to talk to about it.  She goes from an honor roll student to a troubled student and no one stops to ask her what is wrong.  She acts out in self-destructive ways.  As the story progresses, she is given an art assignment that requires her to make something that involves a tree.  She struggles the whole year to figure a way to use the concept of a tree in her art project.  Her former best friend, whom she still cares about, is about to date the senior who raped her.  She finds the courage to tell her former best friend that she was raped.  At first, the girl did not believe Melinda.  However, after experiencing some inappropriate touching at the prom, she believed Melinda and was apologetic.  The senior rapist was infuriated that Melinda spoke out and tried to rape her again.  He was caught by the lacrosse team.  Melinda’s reputation was restored, she completed her art project and received an A+, and realized how strong she was.

3.  CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Laurie Halse Anderson’s writing is honest, witty, and direct.  She writes about issues that are relevant to teens.  This book brings to light many issues that should be openly discussed between teens, parents, and school personnel.  Throughout the book, the school constantly changes its mascot because it could symbolize a potentially bad message: “Home of the Trojans didn’t send a strong abstinence message, so they have transformed us into the Blue Devils.”  It is disturbing that the school’s concern is focused on the message its school mascot could be sending instead of what happens to make an honor student spiral down a path of self-destruction.  School personnel are supposed to be trained to ask the right questions at the right time or at least try to help instead of simply labeling students as troublemakers.  Also, the feelings of many rape victims are discussed.  This book would be a great conversation starter for the difficult issue of rape and its effects on victims.

4.  REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

Starred review in THE HORN BOOK: “An uncannily funny book even as it plumbs the darkness, SPEAK will hold readers from first word to last.”

Starred review in PUBLISHERS WEEKLY: “A stunning first novel….Anderson infuses the narrative with a wit that sustains the heroine through her pain and holds readers’ empathy….Melinda’s hard-won metamorphosis will leave readers touched and inspired.”

A Michael L. Printz Honor Book

A National Book Award Finalist

An Edgar Allan Poe Award Finalist

A LOS ANGELES TIMES Book Prize Finalist

Winner of the SCBWI Golden Kite Award

A NEW YORK TIMES Best Seller

A PUBLISHERS WEEKLY Best Seller

An ALA Top Ten Best Book for Young Adults

An ALA Quick Pick

A PUBLISHERS WEEKLY Best Book of the Year

A BOOKLIST Top Ten First Novel of 1999

A BCCB Blue Ribbon Book

A SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL Best Book of the Year

A HORN BOOK Fanfare Title

Winner of eight state book awards-and a finalist for eleven

5.  CONNECTIONS

*If you feel comfortable leading a discussion about rape, its effects on victims, and how a rape victim can reach out to get help, this is a book that encourages empathy, sharing, and critical thinking.  Allow students ample time to discuss their thoughts and feelings.

*Other books by Laurie Halse Anderson:

Halse Anderson, Laurie. 2003. CATALYST. ISBN 0142400017

Halse Anderson, Laurie. 2008. TWISTED. ISBN 0142411841

Halse Anderson, Laurie. 2010. PROM. ISBN 1616864354

Halse Anderson, Laurie. 2009. WINTERGIRLS. ISBN 1101029196

Book Review on The Arrival by Shaun Tan

Please note that this blog has been created as an assignment for a TWU course.

1.  BIBLIOGRAPHY

Tan, Shaun. 2007. THE ARRIVAL. New York, NY: Scholastic Inc. ISBN 0439895294

2.  PLOT SUMMARY

In this very personal wordless graphic novel, Shaun Tan describes the feelings and experiences of a man who embarks on a journey to a new land in order to make a better life for his family.  He details the heartbreaking emotions of parting from his family as well as the sheer optimism that goes along with planning for a better future.  He depicts the difficult, lonely, and challenging situations that many immigrants often encounter.  Even though many aspects about the new place are similar, they are also very different.  There are new languages, methods of doing specific tasks, animals, scenery, people with differing perspectives on life, etc.  The man adapts to his new environment, works hard, and eventually his family is able to join him.  The family holds on to their native culture and embraces their new culture.    

3.  CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Even though this is a wordless graphic novel, the emotions and sequence of events are thoroughly explained.  The book is composed in the form of an old, weathered photo album.  Small and large pictures are intermingled in a way that allows the reader to follow the sequence of events that lead to a crucial event.  The more mundane events are represented by small pictures and crucial events are represented by large pictures.  The pictures are very detailed.  The emotions of the characters, the scene unfolding in the background, and the progression of events are skillfully crafted.

This book is amazing in so many ways.  Shaun Tan represents the oppressed and possibly unsafe homeland by drawing dark shadows over the city, dragon like tails coiling around the city, and scared facial expressions of the characters.  He emphasizes the difficult journey that immigrants face in many ways.  The departure from his family is very emotional and one of the few personal belongings he can take with him is the family picture.  The difficulty of adapting to the new place is challenging and often times frustrating.  There is a new language and different ways of doing things.  In one scene, he resorts to drawing a picture of a bed to convey the message that he needed a place to stay.    

4.  REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

Starred review in SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “Tan captures the displacement and awe with which immigrants respond to their new surroundings in this wordless graphic novel.”

Starred Review in BOOKLIST: “Recipient of numerous awards and nominations in Australia, THE ARRIVAL proves a beautiful, compelling piece of art, in both content and form.”

Review from Marjane Satrapi, author of PERSEPOLIS: “THE ARRIVAL is an absolute wonder.  It’s not often you see art of this quality, or a book that’s so brave.”

Review from Brian Selznick, author of THE INVENTION OF HUGO CABRET: “THE ARRIVAL is beautiful.  I loved how it slowly dawned on me that this bizarre world was how any immigrant might see the new place they go… everything is different and scary and magical.  The drawings are just so lovely, endlessly detailed and wonderfully strange.  Bravo.”

5.  CONNECTIONS

*If you feel comfortable leading a discussion about immigration, the often times difficult challenges that immigrants face, adapting to a new land, or becoming bicultural, this is a book that encourages empathy and sharing.

*Other books by Shaun Tan:

Tan, Shaun. 2009. TALES FROM OUTER SUBURBIA. ISBN 9780545055871

Tan, Shaun. 2007. THE HAUNTED PLAYGROUND. ISBN 9781598899160

Tan, Shaun. 2002. THE LOST THING. ISBN 0734403887

Tan, Shaun. 2010. THE RED TREE. ISBN 9780734411372

Book Review on Turtle in Paradise by Jennifer Holm

Please note that this blog has been created as an assignment for a TWU course.

1.  BIBLIOGRAPHY

Holm, Jennifer. 2010. TURTLE IN PARADISE. New York, NY: Random House Children’s Books. ISBN 0375836888

2.  PLOT SUMMARY

During the Great Depression, it was difficult for almost everyone.  Eleven-year-old Turtle is sent to live with her Aunt in Florida while her mother stays behind in Jersey to work as a live-in maid for a wealthy person who does not like kids.  This is nothing new to Turtle because she has played the role of the adult because her mother somewhat lives with her head in the clouds believing that everything will work out just like it does in the movies.  Turtle’s mother goes from man to man thinking that each relationship will be the one that will change everything; she and her daughter would then have the perfect family.  Once Turtle reaches Florida, she realizes that things are not what they seem.  She meets a grandmother that she never knew existed, finds a treasure map in an old piano, finds the treasure, gets her mother back and the man her mother thinks is the perfect man, and her treasure stolen by that man.  Turtle then realizes that the perfect family is not necessarily what is portrayed on the big screen and that her family offers a different kind of paradise.

3.  CRITICAL ANALYSIS

It is too often that the idea of the perfect family that includes a loving mom and dad in a beautiful house with a white picket fence is imposed in books and the media.  It sends the message that this is what should be for everyone.  However, every family is unique and what works for one family may not work for another.  Turtle is smart, intuitive, and dependent and is a character that children can easily connect with.

4.  REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

Review in PUBLISHERS WEEKLY: “Infused with period pop culture references, a strong sense of place, and the unique traditions and culture of Key West natives, this humorous adventure effectively portrays Turtle as caught between her mother’s Hollywood-inspired dreams and the very real family and geography that offer a different kind of paradise.”

Review in CHILDREN’S LITERATURE: “Holm is relentless in pushing her young character to the edge, with apparent triumph quickly followed by heartbreak.  Breathe, and there’s reconciliation, and a picture-perfect hope dawning once more.

Review in KIRKUS: “Holm’s voice for Turtle is winning and authentic-that of a practical, clear-eyed observer-and her nimble way with dialogue creates laugh-out-loud moments.  Sweet, funny, and superb.”

5.  CONNECTIONS

*If you feel comfortable leading a discussion about different types of families, this is a book that encourages empathy and sharing.

*Other books written by Jennifer Holm:

Holm, Jennifer. 2010. BOSTON JANE: AN ADVENTURE. ISBN 9780375862045

Holm, Jennifer. 2010. BOSTON JANE: WILDERNESS DAYS. ISBN 9780375862052

Holm, Jennifer. 2007. PENNY FROM HEAVEN. ISBN 0375836896

Holm, Jennifer. 2003. THE CREEK. ISBN 006000133X

Book Review on Catherine, Called Birdy by Karen Cushman

Please note that this blog has been created as an assignment for a TWU course.

1.  BIBLIOGRAPHY

Cushman, Karen. 1995. CATHERINE, CALLED BIRDY. New York, NY: HarperCollins Publishers. ISBN 0064405842

2.  PLOT SUMMARY

In this book, Karen Cushman writes about the spirit of the times and what it was like for women during the Middle Ages.  Women were supposed to learn how to be a lady and take care of specific tasks such as doctoring boils with herbal remedies.  Birdy’s father, a minor English nobleman, wants to marry her off to the wealthiest suitor.  Women were considered property that could be traded for goods and had no choice in the matter of who they were to marry.  Birdy’s endured “cracks upside the head” from her parents when she did not do what was expected of her.  She often engaged in comical yet gross ruses in order to drive away her potential suitors.  She wants so badly to escape this situation and choose her own path in life.  She considered becoming a Monk like her brother Edward and running away to become a crusader like her Uncle George.  However, she quickly realized that she could not do these things because she was not a boy.  After an encounter with a Jewish family that was being exiled from England, Birdy realizes that she is in a similar situation because even though her suitor may have “won my body, but no matter whose wife I am, I will still be me.”  There is symbolism with her name, her pet birds, and the feeling of being caged and wanting to be free.

3.  CRITICAL ANALYSIS

This book is written as a journal would be.  It is interesting that each entry/chapter is headed with some mention of a figure within the Catholic faith.  Often, these figures are martyrs.  At times, Birdy brings up inconsistencies between the messages being taught in the Catholic faith and the practices of society.  For instance, pride and greed are regarded as sins, but Birdy’s father is determined to marry her off to the wealthiest suitor.  This is all for his social status and financial gain.  Also, women were not supposed to be “learned” but Birdy’s brother Edward (the Monk) believes that “everyone should be learned, even girls.”  He encourages Birdy to keep a journal for a year to “help her become less childish and more learned.”  We also vicariously experience the emotions of the individuals involved in the arranged marriages.  For example, Birdy’s Uncle George fell in love with her friend.  However, her friend was married off to a seven-year-old boy.  Even though this work of historical fiction represents the zeitgeist of the Middle Ages, young readers will be able to connect with the character.

4.  AWARDS/REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

A Newberry Honor Book

A 1995 Notable Children’s Book (ALA)

A 1995 Best Book for Young Adults (ALA)

Quick Picks for Young Adults 1995 (ALA)

Starred review in THE HORN BOOK: “Her diary of the year 1290 is a revealing, amusing, and sometimes horrifying view both of Catherine’s thoughts and life in the Middle Ages… The vivid picture of medieval life presents a seemingly eye-witness view of a culture remote from contemporary beliefs.  Fascinating and thought-provoking.”

Pointer review in THE KIRKUS REVIEWS: “The period has rarely been presented for young people with such authenticity; the exotic details will intrigue readers while they relate more closely to Birdy’s yen for independence and her sensibilities toward the downtrodden.  Her tenacity and ebullient naiveté are extraordinary.”

Starred review in SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “Birdy reveals fascinating facts about her time period.  A feminist far ahead of her time, she is both believable and lovable… Superb historical fiction.”

THE NEW YORK TIMES review: “Rambunctious… a first person scramble through Catherine’s 14^th year… [and a] gallant attempt at re-creating the pastoral landscapes and the smoky halls of a vanished era.”

5.  CONNECTIONS

*There are many directions one could take with this book.  It would be an excellent complement to studying the progress of women throughout history. 

*Other books written by Karen Cushman

Cushman, Karen. 2010. ALCHEMY AND MEGGY SWANN. ISBN 9780547231846

Cushman, Karen. 2002. MATILDA BONE. ISBN 9780440418221

Cushman, Karen. 1998. THE BALLAD OF LUCY WHIPPLE. ISBN 9780064406840

Cushman, Karen. 1996. THE MIDWIFE’S APPRENTICE. ISBN 9780064406307

Book Review on Chains by Laurie Halse Anderson

Please note that this blog has been created as an assignment for a TWU course.

1.  BIBLIOGRAPHY

Anderson, Laurie Halse. 2010. CHAINS. New York, NY: Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing. ISBN 1416905863

2.  PLOT SUMMARY

In this book, Laurie Halse Anderson writes about slavery, violence, war, and perseverance.  As the Revolutionary War begins, the owner of thirteen-year-old Isabel and her little sister Ruth dies.  The owner stated in her will that she wanted the little girls to be free.  Isabel has the ability to read and knew that was what the will stated.  When she brings this up to the nephew of the deceased owner, he belittles her saying, “Slaves don’t read and I should beat you for lying, girl.”  The deceased owner’s nephew sells them to a horribly cruel couple.  The couple physically and verbally abuses the girls.  Isabel tries very hard to care for and protect her little sister Ruth who has a seizure disorder.  When the madam finds out that Ruth has this seizure disorder, she beats her and then sells her.  Isabel meets a slave named Curzon who has ties with the Patriots and encourages her to spy on her owners.  As the violence escalates to the point of Isabel’s owners branding her on the cheek, she decides that she must do whatever is necessary to escape the situation.  A lady helps Isabel recover from the branding before sending her back to her owner.  Isabel decides to bide her time in order to make her escape at exactly the right moment.  During a fire, she helps the lady who care for her after the branding.  One night, Isabel stole a pass, helped sneak her friend Curzon into a boat, and escaped.  The book does not have a definitive conclusion.  It marks the setting of the next book in the series.

3.  CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Even though this book is from the historical fiction genre, it provides a realistic view into what really happened during the Revolutionary War.  It is refreshing to read a book written for young adults that does not sugarcoat the truth.  Slavery, violence, and war are real issues that should be honestly and thoroughly discussed.  At an age-appropriate level, children should be given accurate historical information.  This is to ensure that the future generations learn from the past and that the same mistakes are not repeated.   

The book is written as a journal would be.  Each entry/chapter is headed with the date and excerpt from some type of news article that occurred on that day or a quote from a letter or book.  It starts with the day she and her sister were sold to the horrible couple and ends on the day Isabel frees herself.  Isabel particularly enjoyed the book, COMMON SENSE by Thomas Pain, which was given to her.  It had many thought-provoking and “dangerous ideas” that fueled her desire to escape her situation.

4.  AWARDS/REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

National Book Award Nominee

New York Times Bestseller

Winner of the Scott O’Dell Award for Historical Fiction

Starred review in BOOKLIST: “Anderson explores elemental themes of power, freedom, and the sources of human strength in this searing, fascinating story.”

BULLETIN OF THE CENTER FOR CHILDREN’S BOOKS review: “Engrossing…a heart-racing story.”

CHRISTIAN SCIENCE MONITOR review: “[K]nocks on the conscience of a nation.”

Starred review in KIRKUS REVIEWS: “Readers will care deeply about Isabel…”

Starred review in  PUBLISHERS WEEKLY: “Startling provocative…nuanced and evenhanded…a fast-moving, emotionally involving plot.”

5.  CONNECTIONS

*There are many directions one can go with this book.  Initiate a class discussion on one of the issues in this book, such as slaves not being allowed to learn to read.  Encourage critical thinking by asking open-ended questions such as “Why do you think slave owners did not want slaves to read?”  “Based on your responses, why do you think literacy is so important?”  This encourages students to think about these issues on a deeper level.

*Other books written by Laurie Halse Anderson:

Anderson, Laurie Halse. 2003. CATALYST. ISBN 9781042400012

Anderson, Laurie Halse. 2002. FEVER 1793. ISBN 9780689848919

Anderson, Laurie Halse. 2010. FORGE (SEEDS OF AMERICA). ISBN 9781416961444

Anderson, Laurie Halse. 2008. TWISTED. ISBN 9780142411841

Book Review on Charles Darwin by Kathleen Krull

Please note that this blog has been created as an assignment for a TWU course.

1.  BIBLIOGRAPHY

Krull, Kathleen. 2010. CHARLES DARWIN. New York: Penguin Group. ISBN 1101444320

2.  PLOT SUMMARY

In this book, Kathleen Krull writes about the life of Charles Darwin.  The experiences of Charles Darwin as a whole person, not just a scientist, are discussed.  This enables the reader to connect the events leading up to Charles Darwin’s choice to study this particular area, in addition to his contributions to science.

3.  CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Our environment and the spirit of the times strongly impact what we feel comfortable sharing with our peers.  There are several spoken and unspoken rules one must abide by in order to function well in our society.  Sadly, it is common for one to be shunned if one goes against popular opinion.  Darwin understood this well.  This, in part, was why it took so long for Darwin to feel comfortable enough to share his work on THE ORIGIN OF SPECIES with the public. Even though his work may go against popular opinion, it is crucial to remember that popular opinion is not the only opinion. 

This book contains a few black and white sketches of specific events in Darwin’s life.  For instance, there is an illustration of Darwin riding a large tortoise.  This is a visual representation of the text: “He lifted up a tortoise’s shell to see how much it weighed—it hissed at him in response.  He rode another one like a horse, rapping on the shell to get it going.”    

4.  REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

Starred review in BOOKLIST: “In the latest entry in the acclaimed Giants of Science series, which began with Leonardo da Vinci (2005), Krull once again offers an illuminating, humanizing portrait of a famous scientist.  Young readers will connect with descriptions of Darwin as a poor student who felt stifled at school but maintained a voracious curiosity for the natural world outside the classroom.  ‘At age nine, his goal was to know something about every single stone on the path to the front door.’  Krull is a seasoned pro, and as in the series’ previous entries, she writes in easily paced, lively, conversational prose, knitting together interesting facts, anecdotes, and historical overviews into a fascinating whole.  She offers clear definitions of not only Darwin’s theories but also how his discoveries built on previous scientists’ work and notes that his greatest contribution to science was his history of natural selection, not evolution, a distinction that sometimes gets muddied in the still-feverish debates about his work.”

CHILDREN’S LITERATURE review: “Part of the ‘Giants of Science Series,’ this biography reveals a Charles Darwin whose inherent ‘niceness’ both assisted him and inhibited him as a scientist, delaying the publication of this ORIGIN OF THE SPECIES for years, as he feared the uproar it might cause.  In this presentation, Darwin is a kind, curious misfit.  Born to privilege but a non-conformist, the brilliant scientist struggles until he finds his calling.  A fast-paced biography of Darwin and the society that at once shaped and thwarted him, this book engages its audience of ten-and-up.”

SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL review: “Krull does a fabulous job of making Darwin real, from boyhood to adulthood.  The information is obviously well researched and it is presented in a reader-friendly manner.  In addition, Kulikov’s black-and-white illustrations give depth and character to the story.  Darwin’s ideas are presented as well as those of his opponents and fellow scientists.”

5.  CONNECTIONS

*If you feel comfortable leading a discussion about ideas that differ from popular opinion and how to be respectful when discussing differing ideas, this book would be a good starting point.  After reading the book, initiate a class discussion.  Ask open-ended questions such as, “Have you ever had an idea that you didn’t feel comfortable sharing because you thought your friends and family would strongly disagree with you?”  “If so, were they respectful when they disagreed with you or did they behave in a mean way?”  “How did it make you feel?”  “When you disagree with someone, are you respectful or do you say mean things about their idea?”  This gets a dialogue going on what is appropriate and inappropriate in regards to discussing ideas that may deviate from the societal norm.  We may disagree on ideas, but we need to make sure we disagree respectfully.

*Other books written by Kathleen Krull:

Krull, Kathleen. 2008. HILLARY RODHAM CLINTON: DREAMS TAKING FLIGHT. ISBN 1416984879

Krull, Kathleen. 2008. ISAAC NEWTON. ISBN 1101098368

Krull, Kathleen. 2008. LEONARDO DA VINCI. ISBN 1101098694

Krull, Kathleen. 2009. MARIE CURIE. ISBN 1101024771

Book Review on Bodies From the Ice by James Deem

Please note that this blog has been created as an assignment for a TWU course.

1.  BIBLIOGRAPHY

Deem, James. 2008. BODIES FROM THE ICE. Boston, MA: Houghton Mifflin Company. ISBN 9780618800452

2.  PLOT SUMMARY

In this informative and visually appealing book, James Deem writes about glaciers, climate change, archaeology, history, and culture.  He uses language that children can understand.  While thoroughly discussing each aspect, he shows how they are connected to one another by smoothly transitioning from one aspect to the next.  This gives the reader a solid foundation to build on.  For instance, through detailed explanation and explicit photographs, the reader learns how glaciers are affected by climate change.

This would be an excellent book to share because it explains specific situations and shows how they are all connected.  I particularly enjoy this book because it is interdisciplinary.  It could accompany learning material from multiple areas of study. 

3.  CRITICAL ANALYSIS

The book is divided into seven sections.  This allows the content to be broken down into manageable parts.  The text is written on a white background and is accompanied by beautiful, explicit photographs that fully represent the text.  The photographs contain captions that explain specific details, events, and processes.  At the end of the book, the author lists glaciers to visit and suggested websites for further learning.  He also displays a complete bibliography so the reader could check for the accuracy of information.

4.  REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

Starred review in KIRKUS: “An intriguing read, complementing the author’s highly commended BODIES FROM THE BOG (1998) and BODIES FROM THE ASH (2005), with a bonus environmental message.”

BOOKLIST review: “There are books about melting glaciers and books about frozen bodies, but this attractive offering combines the topics in a way that will intrigue readers… Heavily illustrated with historical memorabilia as well as photos of bodies, scenery, artifacts, and rather simplistic maps, this offers a lot to look at and learn about.”

Starred review in SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “With its extensive bibliography, suggested Web sites, and listing of glaciers to visit, Bodies is a fantastic resource.  Deem superbly weaves diverse geographical settings, time periods, and climate issues into a readable work that reveals the increasing interdisciplinary dimensions of the sciences.”

HORN review: “Glaciers—and the preserved past they offer up—give us an intriguing peek into various cultures, yielding information on everything from human sacrifice to occult superstition to sporting endeavors.  As the book concludes, a striking irony becomes evident: glaciers continue to melt at an alarming rate, warranting caution and concern for the global environment, yet even as they dwindle they offer up more clues to our human past.  The book design, with its variety of photographs, captions, and sidebars, seals the appeal.”

5. CONNECTIONS

*Initiate a class discussion on ways to help the environment.  List and discuss the examples from the book.  Help students come up with more ways to help the environment.

*Using the list of glaciers to visit, have each student choose a glacier to research.  Students will write a brief summary of their findings, and illustrate their work.  Students will then share their information with their peers.  The teacher will display the work in the hallway for everyone to see.    

*Other books written by James Deem:

Deem, James. 2011. AUSCHWITZ: VOICES FROM THE DEATH CAMP (THE HOLOCAUST THROUGH PRIMARY SOURCES). ISBN 1598453461

Deem, James. 2005. BODIES FROM THE ASH: LIFE AND DEATH IN ANCIENT POMPEII. ISBN 9780618473083

Deem, James. 2003. BODIES FROM THE BOG. ISBN 0618354026

Deem, James. 2011. KRISTALLNACHT: THE NAZI TERROR THAT BEGAN THE HOLOCAUST (THE HOLOCAUST THROUGH PRIMARY SOURCES). ISBN 1598453459

Book Review on What Do You Do When Something Wants to Eat You? by Steve Jenkins

Please note that this blog has been created as an assignment for a TWU course.

1.  BIBLIOGRAPHY

Jenkins, Steve. 2001.  WHAT TO DO WHEN SOMETHING WANTS TO EAT YOU? Boston, MA: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. ISBN 0618152431

2.  PLOT SUMMARY

In this picture book, Steve Jenkins writes about how different animals defend themselves from predators.  A wide variety of animals and their defense qualities are discussed in an interesting and easy to follow way.  This book inspires the reader to engage in critical thinking because as the sequence of events continues, it leads up to the last scenario, “What would YOU do if something wanted to eat YOU?”  The reader can then reflect on her/his defense qualities and compose a plan on how to defend themselves in different situations.

3.  CRITICAL ANALYSIS

This book consists of 14 situations in which it is explained how different animals protect themselves from predators.  Each situation is discussed on two pages.  The first page introduces the animal and the predatory scenario: “When an octopus is threatened…” The scenario is beautifully illustrated and shows a predator coming toward the octopus.  The second page explains how the animal defends itself: “…it squirts a thick cloud of black ink into the water, confusing its attacker.”  The illustrations show the octopus squirting the black ink at its attacker.  The last page of the book asks, “What would YOU do if something wanted to eat YOU?”  In addition to learning about the unique defense mechanisms of many different animals, this sets the stage for thoughtful and meaningful discussion regarding ideas on how humans can protect themselves from predators.

4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

HORN BOOK review: “Jenkins has produced another marvel…. Young children will delight in first guessing, then seeing, how each of fourteen unusual animals avoids becoming someone else’s dinner.”

BOOKLIST review: “Thrilling, beautiful…dramatic.”

THE BULLETING review: “The youngest animal enthusiasts will find this an intriguing introduction to adaptation.”

A NSTA-CBC Outstanding Science Trade Book for Children

Booklist Editors’ Choice

5.  CONNECTIONS

*Lead a class discussion about other unique animals and their defense mechanism against predators.  Relate those findings to how humans defend themselves from predators.

*Have students research an animal of their choice to find out how it defends itself from predators.  In addition to writing a brief paragraph about their findings, encourage students to illustrate the scenario.  Have students share their work with their peers.  Then, display their work in the hallway for everyone to see.

*Other related books:

Jenkins, Steve. 2011. ACTUAL SIZE. ISBN 0547512910

Jenkins, Steve. 1997. BIGGEST, STRONGEST, FASTEST. ISBN 0395861465

Jenkins, Steve. 2004. HOTTEST, COLDEST, HIGHEST, DEEPEST. ISBN 061849488X

Jenkins, Steve. 2003. LOOKING DOWN. ISBN 0618310983

Jenkins, Steve. 2005. PREHISTORIC SIZE. ISBN 0618535780   

Book Review on Diamond Willow by Helen Frost

Please note that this blog has been created as an assignment for a TWU course.

1.  BIBLIOGRAPHY

Frost, Helen. 2008. DIAMOND WILLOW. New York: Farrar, Straus, and Giroux. ISBN 0374317763

2.  PLOT SUMMARY

Diamond Willow, a twelve-year-old Native Alaskan girl who wants to be called Willow, goes through the sometimes lonely and awkward phases of growing up and becoming more mature.  Like many tweens and teens, Willow often feels ordinary: “If my parents had called me Diamond, would I have been one of those sparkly kinds of girls?”  She has one best friend that is beginning to want to spend more time with a certain boy.  Willow feels more comfortable with her favorite dog, Roxy, because animals cannot hurt feelings like humans can.  Willow desperately wants her parents to acknowledge that she is growing up.  Willow’s parents agree to allow her to mush out the dogs to her grandparents’ house all by herself.  While on the journey, an accident occurs and Roxy’s eyes are injured.  Willow manages to get the dogs and herself to her destination.  Willow blames herself for Roxy’s injury and feels as if her parents were right regarding her being too young for such a big responsibility.  Her parents understand that accidents happen.  When Willow finds out that the vet recommends that Roxy be put down, she makes the decision to take Roxy to her grandparent’s house because they would take good care of her.  While on the path, they get caught in a snow storm.  Willow has to think herself out of a hole and survive the weather.  Willow’s ancestors, in the form of animals, watch over her as she figures out what to do.  By the story’s end, Willow and Roxy survive and Roxy begins to get her sight back.  Willow’s parents feel that since she has displayed accountability and responsibility, she is ready to hear the story about her twin sister, Diamond.  Diamond past away four days after being born and was the spirit of the dog, Roxy.  After Diamond’s passing, her parents gave Diamond’s name to Willow.

3.  CRITICAL ANALYSIS

This is a moving story that most tweens and teens can relate to.  The feelings that many tweens and teens experience are communicated in a thoughtful manner: “I’m skinny and ordinary like a stick.”  Willow’s journey to achieving maturity is well explained.  Mature individuals must have accountability, responsibility, and the ability to think themselves out of a difficult situation. 

The story is written a series of poems that are in Willow’s point of view and shaped like a diamond.  There are bolded words within the poems that convey a hidden message: “I know I’m a little amazing.”  The ancestors’ points of view are written in standard form.  The diamond-shaped poems, Diamond Willow’s name, her past, and her journey are very symbolic.  At the beginning of the book, the author describes what diamond will is.  The diamonds form on several different kinds of shrub willows when a branch is injured and falls away.  The dark center of each diamond is the scar of the missing branch.

This will be an excellent book to share with tweens and teens because it helps readers understand that we are all on a journey to become who we are meant to be and that our character is defined by how we act in trying situations. 

4.  REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

Starred review in SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “[A] gem of a book…Accomplished and impressive.”

Starred review in PUBLISHERS WEEKLY: “Frost’s ingeniously structured novel in verse…may be set in 1850, but its themes will resonate with today’s teens…Memorable.”

SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL review: “Frost casts a subtle spell through innovative storytelling.  Her poems offer pensive imagery and glimpses of character, and strong emotion.  This complex and elegant novel will resonate with readers who savor powerful drama and multifaceted characters.”

5.  CONNECTIONS

*If you feel comfortable leading a discussion about feelings tweens and teens often have and the journey to achieving maturity, this is a book that enables students to vicariously experience trying situations.  You can ask open-ended questions during the discussion, give students ample time to talk about their experiences, etc.  Have you ever felt ordinary or insignificant?  How did that make you feel?  Do you feel as if adults do not recognize that you are growing up?  If so, please explain.  Do you feel that you are not given increased responsibility when you really deserve it?  If so, please explain.

*Gather other books written by Helen Frost:

Frost, Helen. 2008. MONARCH AND MILKWEED. ISBN 1416900853

Frost, Helen. 2005. KEESHA’S HOUSE. ISBN 0786276975

Frost, Helen. 2004. SPINNING THROUGH THE UNIVERSE. ISBN 0374371598

Book Review on Red Sings From Treetops: A Year in Colors

Please note that this blog has been created as an assignment for a TWU course. 

1.  BIBLIOGRAPHY

Sidman, Joyce. 2009. SINGS FROM TREETOPS: A YEAR IN COLORS. Ill. by Pamela Zagarenski. New York, NY: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. ISBN 0547014945

2.  PLOT SUMMARY

This beautiful picture book consists of four different poems about spring, summer, fall, and winter.  The focus of each poem is on the colors you see during that specific time and how they change as the seasons change.  For instance, “In spring, yellow and purple hold hands.  They beam at each other with bright velvet faces.  First Flowers, first friends.  In fall, yellow grows wheels and lumbers down the block, blinking: Warning—classroom ahead.” 

3.  CRITICAL ANALYSIS

This is a clever and witty book that talks about colors one sees during specific seasons and how they change throughout the year.  Joyce Sidman uses colors, objects, and situations that children can relate to.  The senses are used to describe colors in specific seasons: “Fall smells purple: old leaves, crushed berries, squishy plums with worms in them.  Purple: the smell of all things mixed together.”

With the text, the color being discussed is highlighted, outlined by a rectangle, and written in the color it represents.  This will help young children differentiate between colors and the actual spelling of the color.  Pamela Zagarenski’s illustrations are absolutely breathtaking.  They are all so vibrant and full of detail.  The pictures are just as clever as the text.  As an oddly shaped and outfitted person with her/his dog walks through the changing seasons, they participate in many different sensory experiences as the seasons change.  Both the person and her/his dog wear a crown.  In almost every scene, there is a beautiful red bird at the top of the page.  One could sit and stare at the pictures for hours.

This will be an excellent book to share because basic colors are discussed in a sensory manner as the seasons change.  It is a great way for young children to make the connection between their senses, colors, and how to experience them in new ways.  As a teacher, I would break down my lessons into four specific portions, according to season,  in order to make the learning process more manageable.

4.  REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

Starred review in SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “This is an important book both for its creativity and for its wisdom.”

Starred review in KIRKUS: “A charming inspiration to notice colors and correlate emotions.”

Starred review in HORN BOOK: “Sustaining the playfulness of the text and its sense of awe, mystery, and beauty, the illustrations contribute gracefully to the celebration.”

Starred review in THE BULLETIN: “This book has a freshness and visual impact all its own, and it will inspire a rainbow of uses.”

Starred review in BOOKLIST: “As the title implies, the colors that surprise on every page, do sing.”

5.  CONNECTIONS

*Before I cover the fall season in my lesson plan, I would begin class by asking my students to think of an object that is mostly seen in fall, is orange with pulp and seed, flickers with candles, and has orange eyes, orange cheeks, and orange teeth.  My students would eventually guess a jack-o- lantern.  They would receive verbal praise.  My students would point to the jack-o-lantern when we get to the part of the poem that says: “Orange ripens in full, heavy moons, thick with pulp and seed.  Orange flickers, all smoke and candles.  Orange eyes.  Orange cheeks.  Orange teeth.”  During a class discussion, I would ask my students to think of other things that consist of a specific color that occurs in specific seasons.  As an extension, I would ask my students to pick three colors and list sensory descriptions of them and how they change during all four seasons.

*Gather other books written by Joyce Sidman:

Sidman, Joyce. 2010. DARK EMPEROR AND OTHER POEMS OF THE NIGHT. ISBN 0547152280

Sidman, Joyce. 2005. SONG OF THE WATER BOATMAN AND OTHER POND POEMS. ISBN 0618135472

Sidman, Joyce. 2007. THIS IS JUST TO SAY: POEMS OF APOLOGY AND FORGIVENESS. ISBN 0618616802

Book Review on Meet Danitra Brown by Nikki Grimes

Please note that this blog has been created as an assignment for a TWU course.

1.  BIBLIOGRAPHY

Grimes, Nikki. 1997. MEET DANITRA BROWN. Ill. by Floyd Cooper. New York, NY: HarperCollins Publishers. ISBN 0688154719

2.  PLOT SUMMARY

This book consists of a collection of poems by Nikki Grimes.  The poems revolve around the friendship of two African American girls.  The poems are conveyed in the point of view of Zuri, the best friend of Danitra.  The admiration Zuri feels for Danitra is expressed by the sentences: “She doesn’t mind what people say.  She always does things her own way.  Her spirit’s old, my mom once said.  I only know I like her best ‘cause she sticks out from all the rest.  She’s only she—Danitra Brown.”  Through the expressive style of poetry, Nikki Grimes realistically talks about the ups and downs of friendship and gently addresses the issues of harassment due to race, alternative ways to defuse situations, single-parent households, and much more!   

3.  CRITICAL ANALYSIS

The poems are concise, have a nice flow, and contain subject matter that children can relate to.  While each poem is unique, they come together to tell a comprehensive story.  Regardless of whether one poem is read at a time or the entire book is read in one sitting, children will be thoroughly engaged and there will be much to discuss.  Also, the language used is informal and similar to how some children speak such as “gotta take care of things while my mom is in bed.”  The concept of using alternative, more peaceful ways of defusing a hostile situation that involves the harassment due to race is presented in a thoughtful and witty manner: “Me, Danitra Brown, I’ve got no time for Freddy’s mess.  Let him call me silly names, ‘cause I could not care less.  Can’t waste time on some boy who thinks it’s funny bein’ mean.  Got books to read and hills to climb that Freddy’s never seen.”  This helps children understand that they do not have to stoop down to the bully’s level and that they can choose to rise above the harassment in a peaceful way.  The situation of a single-parent household is presented in a gentle manner: “Some kids at school have a mom and a dad.  I’ve got Mom and me only.  On Parents’ Night it makes me mad that it’s Mom and me only.  ‘You’ve got it good,’ Danitra says when I am sad.  ‘Your mama loves you twice as much.  Is that so bad?’  Danitra knows just what to say to make me glad.”  This helps children understand that single-parent households have just as much love as more traditional households.

Floyd Cooper’s illustrations are warm and beautiful.  While the pictures have a grainy look, the faces of the two little girls are very distinct.  Their varying emotions are well represented throughout the book. The little girls are the center of the pictures with everything else as a background. 

This will be an excellent book to share because so many important issues are gently discussed.  Children, teens, and adults would benefit from reading this book.  It would be a great idea for one to introduce a difficult lesson, like racism, by reading this book to the children.  Once the book has been read, the teacher could initiate a class discussion in order establish a basic foundation and build from there.

4.  REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

BOOKLIST review: “We feel the girls’ energy and their bond, in joyful games and in quiet times.” 

Starred review in PUBLISHERS WEEKLY: “Anyone who has a best friend can relate to this realistic but bubbly volume.”

CHILDREN’S LITERATURE review: “This is a wonderful portrait of two little girls, Danitra and Zuri, and their friendship.  They enjoy the fun of bike riding, jumping rope and sharing their personal lives.  Danitra is bold and independent, but also caring and greatly admired by her best friend Zuri.  Warm, soft illustrations by Cooper capture all nuances of the poems.  An ALA Notable Book and Coretta Scott King Award Honor book.”

5.  CONNECTIONS

*If you feel comfortable leading a discussion on one of the topics discussed in this book such as harassment due to race, alternative ways to defuse a hostile situation, or single-parent households, this is a book that would be a great starting point to introduce the topic.  You could read a poem or the whole book to the children and ask them open-ended questions during the discussion.  How did this poem or book make you feel?  Has anyone ever made mean comments about the color of your skin?  How did you react?  Besides responding to the bully with violence, how could you handle the situation?  What is your family like?  Do you have one parent, two parents, stepparents, adoptive parents, etc.?  How does that make you feel?

*Gather other books written by Nikki Grimes:

Grimes, Nikki. 2003. BRONX MASQUERADE. ISBN 0142501891

Grimes, Nikki. 2008. ROAD TO PARIS. ISBN 0142410829

Grimes, Nikki. 2000. JAZMIN’S NOTEBOOK. ISBN 0141307021