Genre 6: Fantasy Series

Bibliography

Colfer, Eion. 2002. Artemis Fowl the Arctic Incident. ISBN 078680855-1

Book Information

In Eoin Colfer's sequel, Artemis Fowl the Arctic Incident, readers who are keeping up with the series get another look at Artemis Fowl. Artemis Fowl's main mission in this installment is to rescue his father who is being held captive. Artemis finds himself seeking the help of his nemesis in the first book, Captain Holly, a leprechaun. He needs this fairy's help, but first has to get her trust by convincing her and others that he isn't as heartless as he seems. This is an ironic point of the book because Colfer has built Artemis' character as that of a criminal genius who is normally not remorseful.

The characters that are brought back from the first book of the series help make this high fantasy book filled with sleek technology and weapons enjoyable. Artemis is a rich, smart kid; Foaly heads the Fairy technology; Holly Short is the Captain of the L.E.P.; and Butler is Artemis' very loyal bodyguard. The characters are unique and have their faults, but when Colfer describes them in ways such as "the broad grin disappeared like a fox down a hole," we still are drawn to them. The story blends high tech "stuff" and magic with the quick mind of Artemis, which makes for a good combination. Although Artemis' family is known for being clever thieves, he is unapologetic about getting what he wants by any means. This flaw in Artemis' character still makes him likeable to reading audiences, mainly because he does the opposite of what is expected.

The fairy like underworld setting makes the book one that joins many of the magical, adventurous tales that are enjoyed by many young readers today. Most would agree that this book ranks up there with other Fantasy series like Harry Potter.

Review Excerpts

Book Magazine Best Book of the Year, 2002

Best Seller List:
1. Amazon.com
2. Booksense
3. Los Angeles Times
4. Notachain.com
5. USA Today

*Starred Review in Kirkus Reviews: "Filled with puns, word plays, and inventive new concepts about the fairy realm, this mix of fantasy and science fiction will delight fans and make converts of new readers."
*Starred Review in Publisher's Weekly: "...Colfer's finger is firmly on the pulse of his target market, and along with extra helpings of sly humor he delivers a cracking good read."

Connections

This is a good read to introduce some readers to the world of Fantasy that is currently very popular and to reacquaint others with it.

*Gather other books related to Science Fiction and Fantasy:
Lowry, Lois. The Giver. ISBN 9780440237686
L Engle, Madeline. A Wrinkle in Time. ISBN 9780440498056
Chabon, Michael. Summerland. ISBN 9780786816156

*Gather other books by Eoin Colfer:
Artemis Fowl Series
The Supernaturalist. ISBN 0786851481
The Legend of the Worst Boy in the World. ISBN 0786855061

Genre 6: Fiction

Bibliography


Patron, Susan. 2006. The Higher Power of Lucky. Ill. by Matt Phelan. ISBN 978-1-4169-0194-5.


Book Information

In the book, The Higher Power of Lucky, Susan Patron gives the readers the heartwarming story of Lucky. Lucky is a 10 year old girl who lives in a small, poor town in California. She is in the care of her gaurdian Brigitte, her father's first wife, because of the death of her mother. Many people think of Susan Patron as naturally a warm, sympathetic person. This could be why she was able to warmly tell us about the life of the young grieving girl Lucky who hasn't yet found her place in life. This is a sad story of a little girl lost, but the humor Patron offers helps the reader get past Lucky's sad situation. Lucky escapes into a windstorm and consequently gets her "higher power."

The book wasn't long and drawn out, but offered short chapters that young readers could remain engrossed in. This book was easy to follow and it's incomplicated plot was how Lucky wanted her life: meaningful. The brief chapters may also keep the reader curious as to what is going to happen in Lucky's life next. Furthermore, the characters Lincoln and Short Sammy have likeable traits that have helped Lucky keep her wits about her. When Lincoln, often called a special child, "drew two neat perfect dots" that was simply the puncuation mark (colon) Lucky said "Wow...that is...presidential." Lincoln blushed at her remark about his attempt at making a road sign to caution drivers. Lucky is encouraging her friend when she needs a boost of courage herself. It is instances like this that Patron's character Lucky wins the hearts of readers.

The illustrations are delicate and fit well with the book. Susan Patron has told an enjoyable story and Matt Phelan has kept the drawings simple, which is reflective of Lucky's life. It seems that the pictures were drawn lightly as to not overpower the delicate character of Lucky.

There is a lot of modesty in this book. Lucky lives in a small town, that isn't rich in it's surroundings. The book has short, easy to read chapters. Lucky isn't surrounded by many unmeaningful people. The black and white pictures are simple and not overdrawn. The author's style, or mode of expression, in making things in Lucky's life uncomplicated makes this an enjoyable read and definitely deserving of the John Newbery Award it has won.

Review Excerpts

John Newbery Medal, 2007

Americal Library Association Notable Books for Children, 2007

Focal Award, 2007

Kirkus Editor's Choice

*Starred Review in School Library Journal: "The novel addresses difficult topics such as death, absent parents and addiction with realism, humor, and wonder, making the overall message one of hope and love."

*Starred Review in Publisher's Weekly: "Patrons poignant Newbery-winning story about a girl who fears being abandoned by her legal guardian- and her only semblance of a family-sails along with believable childlike rhythms and kid's eye view observations.

Connections

This book is a good one to share with children about remaining hopeful even when we feel like all hope is gone.

*Gather books similar to The Higher Power of Lucky:

Wiesner, David. Flotsam. ISBN 0618194576

Selznick, Brian. The Invention of Hugo Cabret. ISBN 0439813786

*Gather other books by Susan Patron:

Lucky Breaks. ISBN 1-4169-3998-9

Maybe Yes, Maybe No, Maybe Maybe. ISBN 1-4169-6176-3 (not yet released)

Genre 6: Young Adult Books

Bibliography

Myers, Walter Dean. 1999. Monster. Ill. by Christopher Myers. ISBN 0-06-028078-6

Overview

In Walter Myer's book, Monster, readers are reminded of the theme that's present in many of this author's Y. A. books: violence. A store owner is shot and killed and the main character Steve, among others are on trial for the murder. Myers presented a story that is all too familiar in many black neighborhoods. We hear the story through the point of view of Steve and many times may think if he is truly aware of what may be his fate. Many of the answers he gave while on trial were just simple "yes" or "no." Steve says "Its funny, but when I'm sitting in the courtroom, I don't feel like I'm involved in the case. Its like the lawyers and the judge and everybody are doing a job that involves me, but I don't have a role." Steve's subjective point of view keeps readers in suspense because even they may start to question if Steve was truly involved in the killing of the store owner.

Myers was able to tell the story of Monster so realistically because he has said in many interviews that the life of Steve is how life was for him and many blacks growing up in his community. The life of violence that Steve experienced is an example of how gender and culture are too often reflected among Black males today. The author also presents characters who we can both sympathize with and ones we have no pity for. Are the boys on trial victims of their society, are they boys who should be given another chance, or are they boys who committed horrible acts that should be punished severely?

The style in which Myers wrote Monster makes the book even more relatable. The story not only reminds us of the harsh realities some people face everyday, but the font type used made Steve's story reach out from the pages. The large script and font size made the story easy to follow. Most of the black and white photos were non-expressive and were merely honest depictions of prison life. The book jacket, although somewhat colorful, with the unsmiling, unapologetic mug shot on it, was the first indication that the reader may literally be reading about a "monster."

Monster is a book that has won several awards and recognitions and many will agree that this realistic story will be remembered by many who read it. especially young adult readers.

Review Excerpts

Publishers Weekly Best Books of the Year, 1999
Michael L. Printz Award, 2000
Coretta Scott King Honor
Natioinal Book Award, Nominated in 2000

*Starred Review in Booklist: "The tense drama of the courtroom scenes will enthrall readers, but it is the thorny moral questions raised in Steve's journal that will endure in readers memories."
*Starred Review in School Library Journal: "Many elements of this story are familiar, but Myers keeps it fresh nd alive by telling it from an unusual perspective."

Connections

This is a good book to share with Y. A. readers because it is true to life. It's also a good choice for suspense and mystery lovers.

*Gather other books Y. A. readers may relate to after reading Monster:
Lee, Harper. To Kill a Mockingbird. ISBN 0060935464
Gaines, Ernest. A Lesson Before Dying. ISBN 185242723X

*Gather other Michael Dean Myers' books:
Slam. ISBN 0545055741
Scorpions. ISBN 0064406237
Somewhere in the Darkness. ISBN 0545055776

*Further Connections

Readers may find this interview with Michael Dean Myers interesting:

www.readingrockets.org/books/interviews/myersw

Genre 5: Historical Novels

Bibliography

Kadohata, Cynthia. 2004. Kira-Kira. ISBN 0-689-85639-3

Chapter 1 Excerpt

“My sister, Lynn, taught me my first word: kira-kira. I pronounced it ka-a-ahhh, but she knew what I meant. Kira-kira means "glittering" in Japanese. Lynn told me that when I was a baby, she used to take me onto our empty road at night, where we would lie on our backs and look at the stars while she said over and over, "Katie, say 'kira-kira, kira-kira.'" I loved that word! When I grew older, I used kira-kira to describe everything I liked: the beautiful blue sky; puppies; kittens; butterflies; colored Kleenex.”


Plot Summary

Cynthia Kadohata's book, Kira-Kira, details the life of Japanese Americans Katie Takeshima, her sister Lynn, and their family. They originate in Iowa, but have to move to Georgia where there is more work for her parents to get so that they can better take care of the family. This move was not easy for the family and adjusting to their new life down South was even harder. Deep down they know that they are immigrants, but to have people openly express their prejudice against this family's Japanese heritage was very hard on everyone. Katie and Lynn share a very close bond, which ultimately helped them to cope with their new life. Lynn was the older of the 2 sisters and she had a vivid imagination. Her enthusiasmn and magical way of looking at the world was Katie's strength. Lynn taught Katie that even in the midst of hard times, she should look at every situation as "kira-kira," which means "glittering" in Japanese. While inspiring her younger sister Katie, Lynn develops lymphoma and subsequently dies. Of course this is heartbreaking to Katie and her family, but she must be of support to her remaining family. It is the "kira-kira" ideal that Katie holds onto that helps her to get through life with undieing hope.

Critical Analysis

Kira-Kira is Cynthia's Kadohata's first book written for middle school age and older readers. This story is told in first person and the reader can almost see through the eyes of Katie. The author allows the story to flow easily and the first person voice takes us on a sad, yet often times humorous journey with this family. From the first page of the book where Lynn teaches a young Katie that "kira-kira" was a Japanese word meaning "glittering" , which Katie pronounced incorrectly at first: "I pronounced it ka-a-ahhh" to the last page where Katie said "I could still hear her dead sister's voice in the waves: Kira-kira! Kira-kira!" Kadohata's deep sentiment for the characters are evident. She also made the simple things we take for granted seem important and necessary for our existence and happiness. In a school essay that Katie wrote after Lynn's death, she said that "Lynn could take a simple, everyday object like a box of Kleenex and use it to prove how amazing the world is." One can't help but smile when a sister tells her baby sister that tissue glitters "just to make it feel better!" "Kira-kira" definitely keeps us hopeful and reminds us of how we should enjoy life while we have the chance. This Newbery Award winning book will remain with readers for years to come.

Style

In the narration of Kira-kira, Japanese words appear throughout. These words are probably foreign to many readers, but the author included English translations. We got the meaning of Katie's brother middle name. His name is Samson Ichiro Takeshima. "His middle name means 'first son'." The dialect of the southerners was also prevelant in this book. People talked and sounded differently than what Katie and her family were use to. When describing how the people down South spoke, Katie said, "they talked like their mouths were full of rubber bands." As in Kadohata's books, examples of dialect are seen in many historical books. Moreover, this book probably appeals to many ethnic readers since it is sensitive to their cultures. But on the other hand, like in many of her other books, Kadohata writes about topics that may be of more interest to adult readers. For example, we learn about how workers are often times mistreated in factories and how they try to fight for better working conditions by joining unions. Katie mentioned that her "mother and father sometimes talked in low voices about the attempts to unionize the plant." Young readers may not be drawn to grown-up type talk in the books they are reading.

Theme

Kadohata doesn't shy away from talking about racial issues in her books. Actually, many of her books talk about the plight of Japanese Americans and how they are victims of racism. On their journey down South, Katie's family stops at a motel and they see first hand how ethnic people are treated. While they are waiting to check into a room, the motel clerk tells the family, "Indians stay in the back rooms." Katie responded, "We're not Indian." The clerk responded by saying, "Mexican's too." There are also examples of racism towards other races in this book and Katie's family sees this as well. While in some restaurants, people would stare at them as they stared at the "signs that said things like COLORED IN THE BACK." The author also weaves illness and loss into her story of Kira-kira. To Katie, Lynn symbolized strength because she was able to always see the good in everything and this seemed to help keep the family together. Even though Lynn's death was inevitable, Katie felt really bad because she was not by her side like her sister was always on hers. "That cut hard into me...I could not imagine what dying must have felt like for her. I had no idea whether it mattered or not to her that she had been alone at the exact moment she died. But I thought maybe it did matter."


Review Excerpts

John Newbery Medal, 2005
Asian Pacific American Award for Literature, 2005
ALA Top Ten Book
Booklist Editor's Choice
Childrens Literature Choice

Starred review in Booklist: "Kadohata stays true to the child's viewpoint in plain beautiful prose that can barely contain the passionate feelings...The quiet words will speak to the readers who have lost someone they love- or fear that they could."
Starred review in Publisher's Weekly: "The family's devotion to one another, and one sister's ability to teach her younger sister to appreciate the "kira-kira", or glittering, in everyday life make this novel shine."

Connections

This is an excellent book to teach children abouth the importance of family ties. It's also a good choice for further helping students understand the Japanese culture.

*Gather other books by Cynthia Kadohata:
Weedflower. ISBN 978-0-689-86574-9
The Floating World. ISBN 0345381629

*Further Reading
Garland, Sherry. Shadows of the Dragon. ISBN. 0152735321
Lee, Marie. Finding My Voice. ISBN 0606243577
Brown Diggs, Nancy. Steel Butterflies. ISBN 0791436241

*Activities/Assignments related to Kira-kira:

1. Students can keep a diary for a week chronicling their life by freely expressing their thoughts, ideas, and opinions about the people and things around them.

2. Students can research and compare different ethnic group's participation in unions during the 1950's. They can also give their personal feedback on whether or not they would join a union as Katie's mom did by explaining why or why not.

Genre 5: Historical Fiction

Bibliography

Fleischman, Sid. 1986. The Whipping Boy. Ill by Peter Sis. ISBN 0-688-06216-4

Plot Summary

Sid Fleischman's book, The Whipping Boy, is a tale of two boys, Jemmy and Prince Brat. Jemmy is a commoner who has been taken from the streets in order to take the whippings for Prince Brat. The bratty Prince is very mischevious and Jemmy finds himself constantly taking the punishment for Prince Brat because he is always in trouble. Another reason Jemmy has to take the whippings instead of the prince is because it is against customs that royalty is physically disciplined. Despite being adversaries, both boys realize that the other could be the key to them escaping the castle, even if Prince Brat presented the escape plan as an order to Jemmy. They runaway, however their journey isn't without danger. The boys quickly face two kidnappers who want a ransom for the return of the prince. Although the prince has been nothing but cruel to him, Jemmy tries to switch identities with the brat so that the prince would be able to safely return to the castle. Surprisingly, Prince Brat refuses to go back and Jemmy decides to try and escape the kidnappers. With no where else to go, the prince follows the whipping boy and they end up at a fair. Unfortunately, they are face to face with the kidnappers again. To get away from the kidnappers, Hold-Your Nose Billy and Cutwatter, the boys find refuge in the sewers that were once the dark, dirty place where Jemmy was a rat catcher. Because he is familiar with the infested sewers, Jemmy tricks the kidnappers into going in the tunnels that were filled with deadly rats. It is then that Jemmy and Prince are able to get away. When they return to the castle, their roles have changed. Yes the prince is still the prince, but he is no longer the bratty Prince and what's even better, Jemmy is no longer the whipping boy.

Critical Analysis

Sid Fleischman makes this book a fun, suspenseful story. It is likely to keep the reader's attention because it is adventurous and humorous, 2 characteristics that readers appreciate in books today. When Jemmy says "Gaw! What's the prince done now?" many readers may think back to the days when they are summoned by their parents because of their wrongdoings. Some readers may also choose to live vicariously through Jemmy and Prince Brat. First, many children vividly imagine life away from home and doing only things that they want to do. Second, Jemmy may have been the whipping boy in the beginning of the book, but he saves Prince Brat and is looked up to in the end. "Prince Horace has caused enough mischief to wear out the hides of a dozen whipping boys. He tells me it's thanks to you that he's back, sound and safe. The king thanks you!" So children can live in the dream world of Jemmy and the prince and be a hero too. At this point, both Jemmy and the reader can have a sigh of relief. The author offered comic relief throughout the book and one of the most memorable example of his funny lines is when the king said, "One more thing! If you boys decided to run away again, take me with you!" The boy's escape, have a twisting and turning adventure, and return home seemed very appealing to the king and definitely to the readers of The Whipping Boy. This book clearly earned the Newbery Award in 1987.

Theme

People's position in society often defines who they are to the outside world. In The Whipping Boy, we read about the theme of power and the lack thereof. Jemmy is the son of a rat catcher who lives in poverty and endures beatings for Prince Brat and the prince lives in royalty and is never punished for his wrongdoings. However, Jemmy's social class does not stop him from exhibiting power even when Prince Brat tells him to "Yelp and bellow next time. Hear? Or I'll tell Papa to give you back your rags and kick you back into the streets." These words were spit at Jemmy because he did not cry after being whipped. This is an example of how the underprivileged is sometimes treated by the upper class. Jemmy endured this wrath for a year but the author describes Jemmy as being of better character because "The whipping boy learned to read, write, and do sums, and the prince learned nothing."

Characters

There were many notable characters in the book, but I think the 2 highway men were among the better ones. When describing the 2 villains, Hold Your Nose Billy and Cutwater, Fleischman's good use of simile lets the reader know that these two will literally be characters. He says that Billy is "big and raw as a skinned ox," and Cutwater's "cheek swelled out as if he had a monstrous toothache." The mental images of these 2 characters allow us to see the sillyness and outrageousness that are seen in many whimsical books such as this one. Furthermore, villains are usually portrayed as clever and capable of outsmarting their victims. However, in The Whipping Boy, the author shows us that reader's assumptions can prove to be ironic to what will truly occur. Billy told Jemmy to write in the ransom note that he and Cutwater were "shameful, mean and rough as a sackful of nails. Warn him we fear no gallows." This highway man was saying these supposedly scarey words not even realizing that he and his partner had been tricked into thinking that Jemmy was actually the prince. These bad guys turn out to be 2 dumb, empty headed "wanna-be" scoundrels.

The illustrations by Peter Sis offer the reader a black and white account of the happenings in the story. There aren't very many pictures in the book, but the ones presented give a good description of the characters and their surroundings. One may agree that the most vivid picture is the one of Hold Your Nose Billy and Cutwater running through the sewer while rats are eating them alive. This gross depiction is enough to make the reader's skin crawl! Both Hold Your Nose Billy and Cutwater went flying through the tunnel yelling, "I'm bit! I'm bit!...Help!" The prince also found this funny and said that, "They look like they're wearing fur coats."

Review Excerpts

John Newbery Award, 1987
Notable Book, Americal Library Association
Best Books, School Library Journal

Starred review in Publisher's Weekly: "With his flair for persuading the reader to believe in the ridiculous, Fleischman scores a hit with his new creation."
Starred review in School Library Journal: "Full page black-and-white illustrations somewhat grotesque but always complementary add attractiveness to the story."

Connections

This book is good to share with students who enjoy whimisical tales. It is also a good example to encourage students to use their imaginations.

*Gather other whimsical stories:
Brittain, Bill. The Wish Giver. ISBN 9780064401685
Fleischman, Sid. The Midnight Horse. ISBN 9780440406143

*Further Reading:
Twain, Mark. The Prince and the Pauper. ISBN

*Additional activities/assignments for students in reference to The Whipping Boy:

1. Compare Jemmy back then to that of what a run-away boy would be like on the streets today.

2. Give examples of humor in this story. Why do you think these lines are humorous?

3. After reading this book, what do you think the author's opinion of "social class" is?

Genre 5: Scott O'Dell Award Winning Book

Bibliography

Taylor, Mildred D. 1986. The Land. ISBN 0-8037-1950-7

Plot Summary

In Mildred Taylor's book, The Land, the reader learns about the life of Paul Edward Logan. Paul Edward is a mixed race child of a Black and Native American slave woman and a White landowner. Set during Reconstruction, this story occurs amid widespread racial disparity. Paul really doesn't know how to identify himself and he struggles with this throughout his life. He is called a white man's "colored son" and blacks accuse him of "thinking that he is better than they are." Despite this personal conflict, Paul Edward is somewhat comforted because he is taken in by his white father and half brother Robert. Paul's father teaches him to read and makes certain that he knows a trade which will help him to someday be a landowner. He is closer to his father than he is to Robert because, when it suits him, Robert shows prejudice toward Paul. His father does too, especially when company is over or when in front of other whites, but to the elder it's not blatant mistreatment because other blacks are treated far worse than Paul is. Another important character in the book is Mitchell, who becomes Paul's friend although the bond wasn't immediate. Mitchell bullys Paul relentlessly about his white appearance, but the boys eventually form a friendship that carried them from childhood to adulthood. Even though their start was rocky, Paul and Mitchell grew to depend on each other in order to survive. Moreover, it is Paul's experience as being apart of a mixed heritage that helped him to survive the brutal times of racism and the loss of his dear friend Mitchell. Paul endured many hard times and disappointments along the way, but he beat the odds for blacks during his time and became a
landowner.

Critical Analysis

The Land starts off very slowly, but Paul's narration of his life soon picks up the pace. By the book starting slowly, perhpas the author intends for the reader to get a good feel of the way of life for Blacks after the Civil War. Taylor's use of dialect and Paul's passiveness to racial prejudices are 2 excellent examples of how things were during this time. For the most part, Paul accepts life as it is and rarely puts up a fight even when he is bullied by Mitchell in the beginning of the story. Paul said "I was reading beside a creek on my daddy's land, and Mitchell came up from behind and just whopped me on the head. For no reason...What ya do that for?" Mitchell' simple rejoinder was " Felt like it...Ya wanna do somethin' bout it?" The protagonist Paul Edward is faced with inner struggles and his determination to overcome racial biases and to someday own his own land are the main conflicts in the story. Although he was treated better than most Blacks, Paul's father constantly reminded him that other Whites didn't care who he was or who he belonged to, and that owning land would not be easy for a Black man. It was a long journey for Paul Edward to get to the point where he would be able to buy 200 acres of land. Before this was possible, he had to lose his best friend Mitchell, who was killed by a White man, and he had to be reacqainted with his half brother Robert. Robert is the one who brought him the remaining money he needed to make the land purchase, something he would not have been able to do since Mitchell died. It was ironic that the money didn't come from Paul Edward's White family, but from his Black family who he became estranged from growing up. In this situation, the author describes how many times the one's we try to stay away from are the ones we have to eventually go back to for help.

Stlye

Many of Taylor's books are reminiscent of how life was in the South. Since many of her books are about racism, many people feel that she focuses too much of her literary worth on racial issues. She has been questioned about this and her choice of always using the "n" word in her books and Taylor, "staunchly stands by her stories and her choice of language. She simply affirms that the incidents she describes are based on fact and that the painful language she uses reflects a painful and shameful part of American history that should not be glossed over." This book isn't a good choice for anyone who is sensitive to the "n" word.

Other Literary Elements at a glance:

Symbol: Land- In this book, there is constant talk about owning land. To Paul, this symbolizes strength. He figures that if he becomes a landowner, he will be treated as an equal in society.

Motif: Loyalty- Even when mistreated, Paul remains loyal to those around him. For example, Paul takes Mitchell's punishment when he rode Ghost Wind. Furthermore, Mitchell shows his loyalty to Paul toward the end of the book when he helps to work land that Paul wants ownership of.

Review Excerpts

Coretta Scott King Award, 2002
William Allen White Children's Book Award, Nominated in 2004

Starred Review in Publisher's Weekly: "Taylor's gift for combining history and storytelling is as evident here as is in her other stories about the Logan family."
Starred Review in Voice of Youth Advocates: "Although this book will be a welcome addition to many middle and junior high school libraries, the fascinating, free-flowing tale will be received warmly by readers of all ages."

Connections

This book can be shared with children to help them better understand the Reconstruction era and to help them understand the Black experience of mixed raced children during this time.

*Gather another book about father/son relationships:
Curtis, Christopher P. Bud, Not Buddy. ISBN 0553494104

*Gather other books by Mildred Taylor that discuss racial injustice:
Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry. ISBN 9780140384512
Mississippi Bridge. ISBN 9780553159929

*Critical Thinking exercises for students based on The Land:

1. Do you think land ownership is as important now as it was during Paul's time? Give details of why or why not.

2. Compare the settings of the plantation Paul lived on as a boy and the land that he later purchased in Mississippi.

3. What aspect(s) of the book would change if it wasn't set during Reconstruction in the South?

Genre 4: Nonfiction Books

Bibliography

Jenkins, Steve. 1997. What Do You Do When Something Wants to Eat You? Ill. by Steve Jenkins. ISBN 0-395-82514-8

Plot Summary

Just as humans want to be protected from danger, nature allows animals to defend themselves against harm too. In Steven Jenkin's book, What Do You Do When Something Wants To Eat You?, we learn about the skillfull and sometimes unusual ways animals protect themselves from harm. Whether it's spitting poisonous venom at the would be predator or rolling up into a ball to act as if dead, the anti-attack methods described by Jenkins gives us ensight on some creatures that may be unfamiliar to us.

Critical Analysis

Although some of the animals in this book are unheard of by most readers, Jenkins keeps the reader interested with his simple, yet detailed descriptions. When we get particulars of the "Jesus Christ lizard," we can't help but want to keep turning the page. The author describes this heavenly creature by saying "it can escape its enemies by running accross the surface of ponds and streams, using it's large feet and great speed to keep from sinking into the water." This example of anthropomorphism helps us to remain captivated about the animals that live among us, be it near or far. Furthermore, the animals may seem mammoth in size or dangerous, but Jenkins' diction throughout the book is child-friendly. Even the puffer-fish who "takes in water and swells up like a prickly balloon..." seems harmless.

Jenkins' illustrations are like few others seen in children's books. The pictures that we see of animals are actually of cut paper that has been shaped into animal forms. The details are very involved and the colors are placed on the animals in just the right places. What's even more interesting is that the pictures seem to be raised off of the pages. One may even have to convince themself that the pictures aren't by actually running their fingers across these realistic looking figures. The life like pictures will probably attract exotic animal lovers.

Review Excerpts

Booklists Editor's Choice 1998

The Best Children's Book of the Year 1998

Outstanding Science Trade Book for 1998

Starred Review in Kirkus Reviews: "Jenkins cleverly conceals a factual compendium of 14 animal and insect defenses as a colorful picture book."

Starred Review in Booklists: "Even as kids shudder at the bared teeth of the predator, they will identify with the trickster who gets away."

Connections

This book is a good choice to introduce children to many of the animals they may not be familiar with. A good contribution to a science class as well.

*Gather other books illustrated by Steve Jenkins:

Dogs and Cats. ISBN 978-0618507672

Almost Gone. ISBN 0060535989

*Gather other children books about animal defenses:

Lovett, Sarah. Extremely Weird Animal Defenses. ISBN 1562613588

Kaner, Etta. Animal Defenses: How Animals Protect Themselves. ISBN 1550744194

Genre 4: Orbis Pictus Award Winning Books

Bibliography

Bolden, Tonya. 2007. M.L.K.: Journey of a King. Book design by Celina Carvalno. ISBN 978-0-8109-5476-2

Plot Summary

Tonya Bolden's book, M.L.K.: Journey of a King, is a story about the life of well known civil right's activist, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Bolden writes about the journey of the Nobel Peace Prize winner starting from his infancy and ending with his assassination. She details how "M.L.," as he was affectionately called, was inspired to do great things even when he was frowned upon just for being Black. At an early age, the reader learns how M.L. became aware of the injustices that the Black race faced not only by witnessing their unconstitutional treatment, but by also experiencing this blatant hate for Blacks that often times turned brutal and violent. Not to be thwarted by the continued prejudices against the Black race, Dr. King dedicated his life to fighting for not only the equal rights of Blacks, but for equality among the entire human race. During his activism, this son, brother, husband, preacher, orator,writer, and friend walked many miles while being supported by his loving wife, Coretta Scott King and their four children Yolanda, Bernice, Dexter, and Martin Luther, III. While on his many journeys to fight for justice, Dr. King stopped and made speeches to 1000's of listeners. His best known speech, "I Have a Dream," was given in 1963 from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial In this riveting, historical speech, Dr. King speaks of the need for racial equality among Blacks and Whites and how they should be able to live in a world peacefully without the need for segregation. Also in this book, Bolden describes the friendships that Dr. King formed with many prominent Blacks we know today. The aliances he had with such people as Rosa Parks, who sparked the Bus Boycotts in the 60's, Rev Jesse Jackson, Andrew Young, Rev. Albernathy and many others activists during the Civil Right's Movement, helped to make M.L's vision for racial equality more attainable. However, this vision was cut short when he was killed by James Earl Ray on April 4, 1968.

Critical Analysis

Bolden takes the reader on an emotional journey through out the course of this book. She constructs the book in a way that's heartfelt and makes the reader wish for the "agape" love Dr. King constantly spoke of. Dr. King said this is the kind of love he had for people who persecuted him and his people. He said he had a "higher, harder love for them. A love that has nothing to do with liking a person, a love worthy of people who do you no good and even do you wrong. Agape says to see past a person's sins to the soul God loves." The chronologicl order of this touching story gives the reader a good understanding of the leader's life and the time line in the back of the book shares "selected moments from the context of M.L.'s life." It also provides many other occurrences that have contributed to people's adoration of this historical figure. Bolden is able to uplift the reader as they are learning about the agonies of Dr. King by including connotations of prayer. For example, M.L. says we should pray in times such as when Time Magazine named him "Man of the Year" and even be prayerful when "he was jailed for three days for a participating in a restaurant sit-in." The author's way of reminding us of Dr. King's spiritual connection with God and his non-violent approach to fighting for justice also helped to lift our spirits as she graciously retold the story of Dr. Kings short, legendary life.

From just the jacket of the book, we know that Bolden will reacqaint the reader with the powerful leader, Dr. M.L.K, Jr. His hand is stretched high as if he is embracing the world as he speaks about equal rights for everyone. The black and white pictures in the book speak volumes. Many of them are of the smiling, handsome face of M.L. with his family and they exude such warmth that in many instances, the reader may become emotional.

This is an excellent book to share with readers not only during periods such as Black History Month, but anytime examples of great leaders are needed.

Review Excerpts

Starred review in Voice of Youthh Advocates: "Bolden offers a captivating, exceptionally well researched portrait of Martin Luther king, Jr. giving readers a tantalizing glimpse of the ordinary, flawed human behind the often worshipped public persona."
Starred review in School Library Journal: "This portrait, rich in personal feeling and well endowed with direct, sometimes extended quotes, will leave readers with a strong, and perhaps inspiring sense of the passion and depth of Dr. King..."

Connections

*Gather other books about noted African Americans written by Tonya Bolden:
The Champ: The Story of Muhammad Ali. ISBN 0440417821
Rock of Ages: A Tribute to the Black Church. ISBN 0679894853
*Gather books written by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.:
A Testament of Hope: The Essential Writings and Speeches of Martin Luther King, Jr.
ISBN 0060646918
Strength to Love. ISBN 0800614410

Genre 4: Biographies

Bibliography

Freedman, Russell. 1999. Babe Didrikson Zaharias: The Making of a Champion. ISBN 0-395-63367-2

Plot Summary

In this book, Russell Freedman tells the story of the life of Babe Didrikson Zaharias. He gives an up close look at what made "Babe" the athlete she is known as today. Babe was born Mildred Didriksen in a Southeast Texas town called Beaumont. She was one of several children who were reared by hardworking parent who did their best to raise a family on their meager earnings. As a young child, when most girls were playing with dolls, Babe was climbing trees and hopping freight cars with the neighborhood boys. Because her strength and abilities matched that of the boys she often roughed it with, many people called Babe a tomboy. This teasing didn't bother her, but only seemed to fuel her desire to be the best at every sport imaginable. She played baseball, basketball, tennis, ran track, was an excellent swimmer, and skater. She was also a golfer, a sport she wasn't initially good at but eventually excelled in because of her perserverance. Because Babe was a woman and often told that she was participating in what should be only male dominated sports, she was more determined to break records and beat the odds. Her will to be the best won her Olympic medals and countless first place rankings in every sport she played. Even though she loved the attention she was getting from sport's enthusiasts, Babe never forgot about her family back in Texas. She often sent them most of the money she earned while playing professional sports and while she worked as a secretary. Over the years she also found love with George Zaharias, a popular wrestler who she had been paired with in hopes of learning to improve her golfing game. They later married and remained married although their union became rocky over the years because of his insecurities about Babe receiving more attention from the media than he did. During her years of continuing to put female athletes on the map, she also became friends with many celebrities such as Babe Ruth, her namesake, Bob Hope, and President and Mrs. Dwight D. Eisenhower. Moreover, just as others had helped to shape Babe's career, she was there to do the same for Betty Dodd. Betty was an up and coming athlete who reminded Babe a lot of herself at that age. These two formulated a close relationship and whenever the star sport's woman needed Betty, she was there. The bond they shared really helped Babe to fight the illnesses that untimately caused her death. Betty along with Babe's husband George, who took her sickness (cancer of the colon and lymph nodes) very hard, was there every step of the way. Even in her darkest hour, Babe was determined to fight to the very end. Babe's neverending fight to prove herself just as capable as any man when it comes to sport's is how most people remember her.

Critical Analysis

Freedman's book about the life of Babe Didrikson Zaharias was easygoing and light hearted. He allowed us to enjoy the successes of Babe as we read about her many achievements. Freedman's description of this energetic star athlete kept us wondering about what record Babe would break next. In this biography, the author gave the reader not just a glimpse but an in depth look into the many sides of Babe. We learned about her humble beginnings, her school career, where she was an excellent athlete, but just did average in her school work, and her overzealousness to tackle every sport invented, many played simutaneously. We even got to learn about the plain girl who hated frills and "was more interested in being cheered than in cheering others. Besides, she never wore jewelry, hated makep, and didn't care about fussy clothing." The reader also was able to enjoy the comedic side of Babe. She was once asked if there was any sport she didn't play and her quick witted response was "I don't play dolls."

How can one not fall for the smile that graced many of the black and white pictures of this book? There was a picture of Babe playing almost every sport she played and we can almost see how very much she enjoyed what she was doing. Babe tried her hand at acting and had small parts on Broadway, but only sports brought out the best in the medalist. Freedman's ability to show us the "hometown" girl at heart reminded us that it's always good to remember one's roots because it's often what helps keeps us grounded and focused on our goals and aspirations. Moreover, it is obvious that biographer Russell Freedman took great care in his research for the book because we were allowed a personal view of this historical sport's champion, Babe Didrikson Zaharias. On the other hand, it may be agreed that there was a closed ending to this story. The reader learned that she had a close friendship with Betty Dodd. When the relationship was described it was only said that they had a "close intimate friendship." This may cause some to wonder if there was more to the relationship between Babe and Betty than what was said.

Review Excerpts

School Library Journal Best Books of the Year 1999
American Library Association notable Books for Children 2000
NCTE Orbis Pictus Award (Nominated in 2000)

Starred Review in School Library Journal: "Animated writing and action photographs capture the energy and indomitable spirit of a true champion."
Starred Review in Publisher's Weekly: "This celebratory work gives readers a chance to cheer Zaharias' legendary life."

Connections

This book will help encourage young girls to follow through with their aspirations, even if they are discouraged to do it merely because of their gender.

*Gather other biographies by Russell Freedman:
Eleanor Roosevelt: A Life of Discovery. ISBN 0395845203
The Voice That Challenged a Nation: Marian Anderson and the Struggle for Equal Rights
ISBN 0618159762
*Gather other books about female athletes:
Peiroth, Doris H. Their Day in the Sun: Women of the 1932 Olympics. ISBN 0295975547
Kahn, Liz. The LPGA: The Unauthorized Version-The History of the Ladies Professional Golf Association. ISBN 0749514302

Genre 3: Verse Novels

Bibliography

Sones, Sonya. 2004. One of Those Hideous Books Where the Mother Dies. ISBN 0-689-85820-5

Plot Summary

One of Those Hideous books Where the Mother Dies, a book by author Sonya Sones, we learn about the ups and downs in the life of Ruby. In this Young Adult work of fiction, Ruby's beloved mother dies and she has no other choice but to move with her estranged father Whip Logan. Whip is an actor who is use to the high profile life that come with super stardom. However, Ruby hates that she will have to make a new life in Los Angeles and wishes that she could be back home with her Aunt Duffy, best pal Lizzie, and her gorgeous boyfriend Ray. While aboard the plane that will take her to her new life, Ruby tries to convince us that she's not depressed. But who wouldn't be depressed, not to mention upset, after having to leave the only life we've ever known to be with a father who left our mother before she even gave birth? After a long, eventful flight, Ruby finally meets her dad for the first time. He's happy to meet Ruby, but she is not in the forgetting or forgiving mood. Actually it's a long, bumpy road ahead for Ruby and Whip. This daughter, a product of a humble upbringing, isn't impressed with her new mansion of a house, and she is even less excited about her fancy new school. The only thing that's keeping Ruby from cracking up is her emails and sometimes infrequent phone calls to and from her family and friends back home. Furthermore, these things along with the emails she sends to her deceased mother, helps Ruby to adapt to her new life in L.A. She also finds a friend named Collette at her new school and an acquaintance named Max, who is Whip's assistant. Of all of her father's famous business associates and friends, Max is the only person that Ruby befriends because he is the only one who truly makes her feel welcome in her new surroundings. What's also frustrating to Ruby is her elective class "Dream Interpretations." In this class, students sit in a circle while holding hands and share the dreams they have experienced while in slumber. Ruby isn't too thrilled about the class expectations, but is relieved when she's not forced to share with the class. While trying to cope with a new school and trying to get use to her dad's sudden interest in her, Ruby is not feeling the love from back home. She has a reason to be feeling this void because she hasn't heard from Lizzie and Ray because they are now an item. Ruby is shocked, hurt, and feels once again that she has not lost only her mother, but two of the closest people to her. Nevertheless, this disappointment was a major breakthrough for Ruby. After she stopped feeling sorry for herself, she begin to listen to her father and she started to pay closer attention to her dreams. One particular dream that Ruby was able to remember was of her dead mother insistently telling her to get out of the house. Ruby heeded this advice and it saved her from being injured by a tree crashing through her bedroom window, which was caused by an earthquake. Ruby not only realizes that remembering dreams are sometimes important, not to mention lifesaving, but she also found out that her dad did want to play an active role in her life. Unfortunately, Ruby's mother didn't want Whip to be in his daughter's life and he didn't force the issue. Now to Ruby, everything makes sense. She was now able to move on with her new life with her father and with Max, who she finds out is her father's partner. Ruby accepts life as it is and is now ready to move forward in Los Angeles. She not only forgives her father, but she also finds it in her heart to forgive her friend Lizzie.

Critical Analysis

Sonya Sones definitely knows how to keep the attention of the Young Adult reader in this book. At times, the reader may find themselves laughing hysterically, becoming wide-eyed, or even cying. The author's ability ot play on the reader's emotions prove why this book is a true work of unforgettable verse. Sones' tone throughout the book is sympathetic to Ruby's plight and the light heartedness of the story kept the reader enthralled and wanting to keep turning the pages. From being taken down by the sad lines of Ruby saying "I didn't have mom's hand to hold, my heart flung itself up into my throat," to the funny nicknames of Ruby Dooby, Raymeo, and Lizanthamum that were used in communications, the reader is quickly brought right back up! Ruby describes her new bedroom by saying, "He stops in front of an oak door and whips it open to reveal--my bedroom." The "intended pun" of "whips" in the lines above keep this story interesting. Usually in the genre Poetry, the reader expects a continuous use of rhyme. This didn't occur in this story and surprisingly rhyme wasn't missed because the author was able to keep the reader's attention without it. The language used by Ruby and her friends almost reached the top at times, but when one thinks about it, like most teenagers, they probably say even worse. "What the ______?!" Many readers can probably fill in the blank with their own colorful term that they've used once or twice in their lifetime. This book will no doubt be enjoyed by Young Adult audiences and the only thing that could possibly be wrong with it is that it ended far too soon. Moreover, the book is almost 300 pages and can be easily read within a couple of hours!

Review Excerpts

Starred review in Kirkis Reviews: "Ruby's eventual adjustment and her rapprochement with her father...will come as no surprise to readers, but, hey--this is hollywooed after all, and sometimes a happy ending is exactly waht we need."

Starred Review in School Library Journal: "Ruby's story is gripping, enjoyable, and memorable."

Connections

*Teenagers most often have concerns about what they are experiences in life. This is a good book to suggest to them because it shows them that they are not alone in the world, but are like many other teenagers.

*Gather other books of verse associated with Sonya Sones: Sixteen: Stories About That Sweet and Bitter Birthday. ISBN 1-4000-5270-X and Love and Sex: Ten Stories of Truth. ISBN 0-689-83203-6

*Gather other books of poetry about the life of adolescents: Grandits, John. Blue Lipstick: Concrete Poems. ISBN 9780618851324

Frost, Helen. Diamond Willow. ISBN 9780374317768

*Another book that deals with the many emotions of a teenage: November, Deeana and Rosenberg, Liz. I Just Hope It's Lethal: Poems of Sadness, Madness, and Joy. ISBN 978061856452

Genre 3: Books of Poetry Continued

Bibliography

Grimes, Nikki. 1999. My Man Blue. Ill. by Jerome Lagarrigue. ISBN 0-8037-2326-1

Plot Summary

In Nikki Grimes book of poems, My Man Blue, the reader is introduced to Damon an initially cautious young boy and Blue, a man who is no stranger to tough times. They become acquainted in the neighborhood where Damon and his mother are now residing. Damon is immediately distrustful of Blue because he feels that he is a threat to the relationship he has with his mother. Damon is use to being the man of the house and having this dark, hard faced man interfere in their lives does not set well with the young boy. Damon "cirlcle, look him up and down and let Him know his grin's not winning points with me." But Damon changes his opinion of Blue when his mother assures him that "her old friend" will not present a problem in their lives. From this point on, Damon's trust in Blue grows and they take on an almost father-son relationship. Because Blue has already lost his son Zeke to the mean streets, he is determined to save Damon from the same fate by being his protector and mentor. Whether it's Blue guiding him up a tree while insisting that he won't let the boy fall or if it's a one-on-one game of basketball, Damon knows that he will always be able to count on his new friend. Blue's words of wisdom such as "Fears useless otherwise," and "Anger is a waste," makes Damon believe that he can conquer the world. From the time that he spends with Blue and the lessons he has learned about life and the streets, Damon says that he will be "Like Blue," the "one who says he cares and shows it."

Critical Analysis

Grime's ability to write and have the reader feel her emotions is evident in the poetic pieces of My Man Blue. The character's Damon and Blue are real and Damon's use of first- person point of view throughout the book evoke feelings of closeness from the reader. When Damon says "I grab her wrists til she calms down," the reader can't help but applaud and want nothing but the best for the young boy. His refusal to retaliate against the young girl who is provoking him on the playground is an excellent example of how Damon is learning to make good decisions. These collections of individually titled poems doesn't show much rhyme, but examples of alliteration are present in many lines of the poem. Blue's hands show that he has experienced much in his lifetime and the lines, "thumbs tipped with work-proud callouses," tell us just how much hard work Blue has endured. Moreover, Grimes' use of imagination to create this story in order to express some of her personal feelings is canny and proves that this is a true work of poetry.

The illustrations in the book by Jerome Lagarrigue are dark, yet true to life. The intricate details of Blue's strong face and muscular stature allow us to see the strong willed man that Damon wishes to be like. The neighborhood pictures and even more so, the clearness and vividness of the shots for "Class Bully," may bring some readers back to their days growing up. A very touching part of the poems occurs when Damon isn't taken by the taunts of the nieghborhood kids. He shows that he's a "man" by responding "if I take care of my mom so what? She takes care of me." Damon's rejoinder to being called a "Mama's boy" would make any hard working mother proud.

This is an excellent book to share with children, particularly young boys who are faced with many adversities in life. This book shows that in spite of, we don't have to be victims of our surroundings, especially when we have someone who geniunely cares in our corner.

Review Excerpts

A Booklist Editor's Choice

Marion Vannett Ridgway Award

Society of School Librarians International Honor Book

Starred review in Publisher's Weekly: "Though each of these accomplished poems could easily stand alone, together they form an enticing story."

Starred review in Booklist: "Lagarrigues strong realitic acrylic paintings show the poignant connection between the needy child and the gentle, heavily built man in the dangerous neighborhood..."

Connections

*Another book of poetry for children about hope and beating the odds is: Heard, Georgia. This Place I Know: Poems of Comfort. ISBN 0763619248

*Gather other books illustrated by Jerome Lagarrigue, winner of the Coretta Scott King Award. Look at how he bring to life another African American family in: Going North. ISBN 978-0-374-32681-4

Genre 3: Book of Poetry

Bibliography


Prelutsky, Jack. 1995. For Laughing Out Louder: More Poems to Tickle Your Funnybone. Ill. by Marjorie Priceman. ISBN 0-679-87063-6


Plot Summary


Jack Prelutsky's book, For Laughing Out Louder: More Poems to Tickle Your Funnybone, is a collection of many funny poems. This second installment to, For Laughing Out Loud: Poems to Tickle Your Funnybone, includes poetry from well known writers from Prelutsky himself to Eve Merriam and even anonymous writers. There are enough poems under this title to keep listerners involved and eager to hear more. Moreover, these silly rhymes will do just what the title says: "tickle your funnybone!"


Critical Analysis


Prelutsky's simple verses make this book easily understood by it's readers. Some of the verses talk about "smelly feet," but no matter what the sometimes crass details are, these rhyming lines will have something to offer the many tastes of children and perhaps even older readers. "Hairless hippopotamus" is an example of the many instances of alliteration throughout the poems. The continuous flow of words never disappoints because from the beginning, the reader knows that there will be a rhyming delight that's sure to please. Although the poems are plentiful in this book, their ability to keep the reader's attention makes it possible to read every single line over and over again.



Marjorie Priceman's illustrations are very fitting for the verses they describe. The pictures are very colorful and can elicit a laugh without the reader ever reading the poem that accompanies it. There are many hilarious pictures to enjoy, but Priceman's depiction of "Big Bert" as he sits on a cushion has to be the best. "I'm much too fat," moaned he. "Who else could be so miserable?" The cushion answered, "me." To see Big Bert sitting on a frowning, obviously uncomfortable cushion, makes Priceman's illustration "priceless"....yes pun intended! Every hue imaginable is used to paint the illustrations, which allows the reader to enjoy even more of the colorful lines and color pictures that highlight every page.


Review Excerpts


*Starred review in Booklist: "There's plenty of silliness in wordplay and situation to show kids that language can be fun."
*Starred review in School Library Journal: "Priceman's elongated watercolor cartoons decorate the pages and reinforce the humor."


Connections


*If there is an audience of children who do not mind sometimes gross humor, this book is a good choice.
*Gather other books of poetry by Jack Prelutsky: The Frogs Wore Red Suspenders.
ISBN 978-0-688-16719-6 and It's Raining Pigs and Noodles ISBN 978-0-06-029194-5
*Gather another book illustrated by Marjore Priceman: Things That Sometimes Happen: Very Short Stories for Little Listeners. ISBN 0-689-83524-8