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