Looking For Alaska

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Green, John. 2005. LOOKING FOR ALASKA. New York: Dutton. ISBN 0525475060

PLOT SUMMARY
Miles Halter, a somewhat nerdy guy who makes a hobby of memorizing last words, is about to leave home in Florida to seek “the great perhaps” at Culver Creek boarding school in Alabama. Upon his arrival, he meets his roommate, Chip (called “the Colonel”), Alaska (the Colonel’s best friend), and Takumi. After hanging around these three and learning the ropes, Miles finds that he has real friends for the first time in his life, as well as experiences many other firsts.

The students spend their time plotting schemes (mostly directed at their rivals, the “weekday warriors”), sneaking off campus for a drink and a cigarette, and talking late into the night. They also go to class; one of particular interest is Dr. Hyde’s world religion class. This class raises many questions among the teens concerning the escape of human suffering, life after death, and how the world’ religions intermix.

Throughout his first semester, Miles spends much of his time with Alaska, establishes a deep connection with her, and falls in love with her. Just as he feels like their relationship is about to change, tragedy changes everything. Alaska dies in an alcohol-related car crash. From that moment, a devastated Colonel and heart-broken Miles alienate their friends and search to find more answers about Alaska’s death and the life she lived before.

Miles and the Colonel feel the pain of loss, but also of guilt. They wonder how much of Alaska’s fate was their responsibility. The answers they are looking for are difficult to come by. What happened in the moments before Alaska left in an emotional rush? Was her death merely an accident, or a suicide orchestrated at the last moment in order to escape “the labrynth of suffering?” Although they learn more about Alaska’s life and death, they are only able to come up with a few theories that will have to suffice in relieving some of the pain of losing a best friend and first love. The boys, with the help of their other friends and even the “weekday warriors,” decide to carry out Alaska’s perfectly devised prank, as a memorial to her.

As the year draws to a close, everyone begins to move on. They make their plans to go home but will return the following year, a little wiser, as better friends, and ready to learn more of life’s lessons. Miles may not have found the “Great Perhaps” yet, but nothing can replace the experiences his first year at Culver Creek brought.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS
In his first novel, John Green captures readers from the very beginning. The balance between fun and seriousness is appropriate, where readers will be entertained by the characters’ scheming and actions, but they will also be thrown into the deep thoughts and serious issues that encompass the story. Similar to J.D. Salinger’s The Catcher in the Rye, Green’s casual, but intelligent writing style reflects the mood of teen angst, allowing readers to feel as though they are a student at Culver Creek, participating in the crazy antics of Miles and his friends.

However, where this book shines most is in its characters. Green has created strong, memorable characters that continue to develop as the story progresses. Readers will be intrigued by the qualities of these characters and relate to their various circumstances. With this group of well-developed and unique characters, readers will find it easy to identify with the feelings and characterizations of at least one.

Reading this novel does not only tell a good story, but will leave readers questioning aspects of their own lives; perhaps their faith, loyalty, friendships, their future, or any part of their own personal situation. It would be nearly impossible for a reader to read and understand this novel without connecting with one of the characters or feeling personally affected by their stories. Many readers will be anxiously awaiting the future work of John Green.

REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
Michael L. Printz award winner, American Library Association, 2006
Tayshas Honor Book, Texas Library Association, 2007
Best Book for Young Adults, American Library Association
Editor’s Choice, BOOKLIST, 2005
Best Book of the Year, SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL, 2005
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “the story moves methodically to its ambiguous climax.”
PUBLISHER’S WEEKLY: “Readers will only hope that this is not the last word from this promising new author.”

CONNECTIONS
* Read along with THE CATCHER AND THE RYE (J.D. Salinger) and compare and contrast the two novels, particularly the 2 protagonists, Miles Halter and Holden Caufield. Students may also find similarities between Holden Caufield and Alaska.
* While reading this novel, discuss the character development of Miles and the Colonel as the story progresses.
* Use this novel as a discussion starter. The characters, Alaska in particular, all face various issues that teens typically will encounter in their lives. Readers can reflect on their own feelings of the issue(s) and how they compare or contrast with the book’s characters.
* This story also brings up the issue of religion. Have a discussion about tolerance among people with varying beliefs.
* Have students write about either their “labrynth of suffering” or “the great perhaps” that they have encountered or seek to find.


*Books by John Green or similar coming-of-age novels:

Green, John. 2006. AN ABUNDANCE OF KATHERINES. New York: Dutton Books. ISBN 0525476881

Hemphill, Stephanie. THINGS LEFT UNSAID. New York: Hyperion Books for Children. ISBN 0786818506
* Teyshas Honor Book, Texas Library Association, 2007

McMurtry, Larry. 1972. ALL MY FRIENDS ARE GOING TO BE STRANGERS. New York: Simon and Schuster. ISBN 0671211609

Salinger, J.D. 1951. THE CATCHER IN THE RYE. New York: Little Brown. ISBN 0316769533

Hoot

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Hiaasen, Carl. 2002. HOOT. New York: Knopf Books for Young Readers. ISBN 0440419395

PLOT SUMMARY
Roy Eberhardt has moved with his family once again to Coconut Cove, Florida from his beloved Montana. The proverbial new kid has trouble with school bullies, particularly Dana Matherson. However, it is because of him that Roy sees a shoeless kid, known as Mullett Fingers, running away from school. Meanwhile, a new construction project has started to encounter various setbacks and disruptions, including the removal of survey flags, the appearance of deadly snakes, and even alligators in toilets.

As Roy gets to know Mullet Fingers and his stepsister Beatrice, he finds himself involved in the mystery behind the foiled construction work going on in Coconut Cove. A population of small burrowing owls has made a home of the construction site of Mother Paula’s All American House of Pancakes. Through investigation, well-intentioned vandalism, and eventually a protest including Roy and Beatrice’s fellow students and community members, the three teenagers do all they can to save the endangered owls from certain death and keep Mother Paula’s restaurant away from their habitat. Through it all, Roy develops new friendships and begins to enjoy his life in Florida.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Hiassen’s debut in children’s literature is complete with light-hearted moments, relatable characters, quirky situations, and inspiration for kids to make a difference. The wide array of intriguing and well-developed characters will keep readers interested, and one crazy event after another will keep them from putting the book down. Hoot raises issues of environmental preservation, ideally sparking interest and awareness among young people. Readers of all ages will be entertained by Hiassen’s clear storytelling, dry wit, and ability to bring current problems among people to a level at which many can relate.

Although many of the story’s events are rather unlikely, they are easy for readers to visualize and feel as if they are a part of the action. From the start, each even seems part of a separate story, but as the plot develops, they eventually start to intertwine, leading up to an action-packed, somewhat slapstick, but enjoyable climax. From school antics to scheming, this story has something for everyone, but it is ultimately about friendship and learning to be comfortable with who you are and where you are in life, a definite winner on the bookshelf.

REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
Newberry Honor Book, 2003
American Library Association Notable Children’s Book & Best Books for Young Adults
Lonestar Reading List, Texas Library Association, 2003 - 2004
BOOKLIST: “the story is full of offbeat humor, buffoonish yet charming supporting characters, and genuinely touching scenes of children enjoying the wildness of nature.”
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “Packed with quirky characters and improbable plot twists”
PUBLISHER’S WEEKLY: “several suspenseful scenes build to the denouement involving the sitcom-like unraveling of a muckity-muck at the pancake house. These, along with dollops of humor, help make the novel quite a hoot indeed.”

CONNECTIONS
*Read this book aloud or as a class during a unit on the environment, around Earth Day time, or anytime that would be good to promote environmental awareness.
*While reading, discuss the environmental issue that Roy and his friends are protesting. Do some research, and try to find communities that have relocated animal groups in order for construction to take place. Also, see if you can find construction projects that have been stopped due to animals or other parts of our environment.
*Compare the environmental issues in Coconut Cove to those in your area.
*Discuss the character development throughout the story. Roy, Mullet Fingers, and Beatrice all mold a bit as the book goes on.

*Other novels pertaining to environmental protection

DeFelice, Cynthia C. 1994. LOSTMAN’S RIVER. New York: Macmillan. ISBN 0027264661
*Texas Lonestar Reading List, Texas Library Association, 1996-1997

Hiaasen, Carl, 2005. FLUSH. New York: Knopf Books for Young Readers. ISBN 0375821821
*Texas Lonestar Reading List, Texas Library Association, 2006-2007

The Golden Compass

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Pullman, Philip. 1995. THE GOLDEN COMPASS. New York: Alfred A. Knopf. ISBN 0679879242

PLOT SUMMARY
Lyra Belacqua, and eleven year old girl, has spent her childhood at Jordan College with her friends, other scholars, and her daemon (an extension of her soul in animal form), Pantalaimon. Things begin to change upon a visit from her father, Lord Asriel, whom she thinks is her uncle. She beings to wonder about the mysterious Far North, the Dust Lord Asriel mentioned, and other intriguing things she learns and overhears, including bits of information about several children that are missing. She eventually leaves Jordan College, despite an apprehensive Master, with the captivating Mrs. Coulter, to become her assistant. Upon her departure, the Master gives Lyra an alethiometer, the golden compass that she must learn to read and understand in order to know the truth. However, she doesn’t know how big a role it will play in her future.

At first, Lyra enjoys helping Mrs. Coulter, but after living with her for a while, she discovers her Mrs. Coulter’s true evil nature and escapes. She ends up with the gyptians, where she learns more about the Gobblers and the evil experiments they are performing on children, many of them gyptian children as well as her friend, Roger. As a string of related events unfold, Lyra joins a group to go search for and rescue the missing children and end the work of the Oblation Board. During this journey, Lyra befriends an armoured bear, Iorek Brynison, the witch queen, and aeronaut, and several others. Along the way, she gets captured by the Gobblers and taken to their facility where she reunites with Roger. They learn more about the dangerous experiments being performed on children, where children are being severed, or cut away from their daemons, resulting in immense pain, torture, and often death. Lyra and Roger lead the children out of the facility. Then, they are all saved by the gyptian group, witches, and Iorek Byrnison. Following their rescue, Lyra and the others continue farther North to find Lord Asriel so Lyra and give him the alethiometer and get his help in stopping the work of the Oblation Board. They end up in battle against the Oblation Board and eventually defeat them.

When Lyra finds Lord Asriel, he explains his work of studying Dust to her, and she learns that he is just as evil as Mrs. Coulter, whom Lyra has learned is her mother. Lord Asriel is able to get Roger and separates him from his daemon, but Lyra is unable to save him, and he dies. Using the Dust from Roger and his daemon, Lord Asriel is able to complete his experiment and travel to a parallel world. With the encouragement of Pantalaimon, Lyra and her daemon, armed with the alethiometer, follow her father into this other world.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Pullman has pieced together a fantasy complete with a myriad of unique characters, imaginative events, and an intriguing, different world. However, this book is not meant for the light reader. THE GOLDEN COMPASS consists of many interwoven ideas and a very intricate plot that could be perceived as complicated, causing some readers to lose interest. Some parts of the story are difficult to visualize due to their different nature, so far from what today’s young adult readers can relate to. Although they are well developed, the characters are also difficult to relate to. Other than the basic underlying ideas and feelings of friendship, love, and curiosity, the characters’ experiences and different lifestyles will leave some readers in a fog.

Even though some readers may find difficulty in getting into Pullman’s work, this novel is wonderful and exciting for those who enjoy fantasy reading. Fans of adventure will like the eventful story, full of battles, plot twists, and action-packed scenes. The ending cliffhanger will entice these readers to pick up the next copy of Pullmans’ trilogy, anxious to know what will become of Lyra and her trusty Daemon.


REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
Lone Star Reading List, Texas Library Association, 1999 - 2000
Starred review in BOOKLIST: “A totally involving, intricately plotted fantasy that will leave readers clamoring for the sequels.”
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “This is a captivating fantasy, filled with excitement, suspense, and unusual characters... The ending is less than satisfying, but serves as a lead-in to part two of the series. Fantasy lovers will be clamoring for the next installment.”
PUBLISHER’S WEEKLY: “This glittering gem will leave readers of all ages eagerly awaiting the next installment of Lyra's adventures.”

CONNECTIONS
*Develop visualization skills by reading a description of various characters or creatures in the story and having students draw them based on how they visualize them.
*Read aloud to develop an appreciation of fantasy novels
*Read this book along with another fantasy novel (i.e. Harry Potter series, Chronicles of Narnia). Discuss the similarities and differences in each, compare the parallel worlds in the novels, symbolism, characterization, etc.
*Watch the movie of The Golden Compass and compare/contrast with the book.


*Other books in the His Dark Materials Trilogy

Pullman, Philip. 1997. THE SUBTLE KNIFE. New York: Alfred A Knopf. ISBN 069879250

Pullman, Philip. 2000. THE AMBER SPYGLASS. New York: Alfred A Knopf. ISBN 0679879269

The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Avi. 1990. THE TRUE CONFESSIONS OF CHARLOTTE DOYLE. New York: Orchard Books. ISBN 0531084930

PLOT SUMMARY
Charlotte Doyle, a proper thirteen-year old girl from England, must take a cross-Atlantic voyage to reunite with her family, who had previously moved, in America. Long before her voyage, her passage was arranged along with another family who agreed to look after her. However, the family never made it to the ship, and despite many warnings, Charlotte boarded the Seahawk as the lone passenger along with a bitter crew and a tyrannical captain.

At first, Charlotte befriends a crew member, Zachariah, and finds comfort with the captain, remaining loyal to him and his orders. However, as Charlotte learns the ways of the ship, gets to know the crew, and is later betrayed by the cruel and harsh Captain Jaggery, she has a change of heart. When Zachariah is seemingly beaten to death for taking responsibility for the crew’s first attempt at mutiny, Charlotte declares herself one of the crew, helping carry the weight of Zachariah’s duties. She is met with resistance from the crew, left alone to fend for herself, but is later accepted by the others as seaworthy.

In the aftermath of a violent storm, everyone on board discovers the murder of Captain Jaggery’s first mate. Charlotte is accused of murder by the captain and her peers and sentenced to hang before the ship’s arrival in America. While locked up in the hold, Charlotte learns that Zachariah is still alive; hiding out in the ship to help with the mutinous crew’s attempt to kill Captain Jaggery Together, the two devise a plan to save Charlotte and expose Captain Jaggery and his many evil actions (including the slaying of his first mate). As the action unfolds, Charlotte succeeds in clearing her name, getting rid of the captain, and becoming the captain of the Seahawk for the remainder of the voyage.

Her return to her family is less than glorious; no one believes her story, and she finds that she misses her friends on board the ship and the thrill of the sea. Charlotte decides that she prefers a life of adventure to her prim and proper existence on land. In a cliffhanging end, she finds her way back to the Seahawk and joins the crew as they sail away.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Avi has done an excellent job of weaving history, suspense, and a series of unpredictable events in this novel. His description of life in the nineteenth century, on the high seas allows readers to feel as if they are traveling on the Seahawk with Charlotte and the crew. The characters are expertly developed and will have readers cheering for some and rooting against the others. Even though the setting is long ago, readers will find that they relate to the curiosity, fear, and triumph that Charlotte experiences. They will surely get wrapped up in all the drama and raw emotion, finding each surprise is bigger and better than the last.

This novel is packed of all the elements that many young adult readers find the most intriguing: danger, adventure, betrayal, “ghosts”, murder, revenge, and friendship. Readers, young and old, will have a difficult time putting this book down, as nearly each chapter ends with a cliffhanger or a completely unpredictable event. It comes together in a satisfying end, that will leave readers wanting a sequel, however one has not been written, nor is one planned.

REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
Newberry Honor Book, 1991
American Library Association Notable Book & Best Book for Young Adults
Texas Bluebonnet Honor Book, Texas Library Association, 1993
Starred review & editors choice in BOOKLIST: “Riveting...Nonstop action on the high seas...A story hard to forget.”
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “A breathtaking seafaring adventure.”
PUBLISHER’S WEEKLY: “Charlotte's story is a gem of nautical adventure... the novel offers suspense and entertainment modern-day readers will enjoy.”

CONNECTIONS
*Use this in a book study and develop an appreciation of historical fiction and how exciting it can be.
*While reading this book aloud or as a class, discuss the various literary elements present throughout the story, including (but not limited to) cliffhanger and suspense, conflict, point of view, foreshadowing, and plot.
*While reading, follow the character development of Charlotte, Captain Jaggery, Zachariah, and others.

*Other historical fiction novels by Avi

Avi. 1994. THE BARN. New York: Orchard Books. ISBN 0531087115

Avi, 1996. BEYOND THE WESTERN SEA: BOOK ONE: THE ESCAPE FROM
HOME. New York: Orchard Books. ISBN 0531095134

Avi, 1996. BEYOND THE WESTERN SEA: BOOK TWO: LORD KIRKLE’S MONEY
New York: Orchard Books. ISBN 0531095207

Avi, 2002. CRISPIN: THE CROSS OF LEAD. New York: Scholastic, Inc. ISBN 0439574676
*Newberry Medal Winner, 2003
*Lone Star Reading List, Texas Library Association

Avi. 2006. CRISPIN: AT THE EDGE OF THE WORLD. New York: Hyperion Books
for Children. ISBN 078685152X

Avi. 1989. THE MAN WHO WAS POE. New York: Orchard Books. ISBN 0531058336

Avi. 2007. THE TRAITOR’S GATE. New York: Atheneum Books for Young Readers.
ISBN 0689853351

Shaka: King of the Zulus

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Stanley, Diane and Peter Vennema. 1988. SHAKA: KING OF THE ZULUS. New York: Morrow Junior Books. ISBN 0688073433

PLOT SUMMARY
Shaka (oo-Sha-geh) was born the son of a Zulu chief in the late eighteenth century. He began working to help his small tribe at a young age, and a mistake he made while guarding the sheep caused Shaka and his mother to be banished, as outcasts, from the clan. The two moved to another tribe where Shaka endured cruelty from the other children and had no friends, but longed to be great. After becoming a burden to the clan, they moved on to another one, where Shaka grew up among friends. He began learning to be a warrior during a time when fierce warriors were held in high regard and tribal warfare was common, admirable, and led to prestige.

As Shaka got older and learned from the powerful chief, Dingiswayo, The Great One, he decided that there was a better way to fight than the methods the Zulu clan currently used. He reinvented Zulu fighting by creating a new weapon, fighting barefoot, and practicing new techniques. He quickly became a respected warrior, honored as a hero, and given the position of leading the other warriors of the clan.

Upon Shaka’s father’s death, The Great One appointed Shaka as the new chief of the Zulu clan. Throughout his time as chief, Shaka reconstructed the Zulu army, making them one of the mightier forces in southern Africa, using new and effective warfare techniques and acquiring land and men from conquered tribes. He befriended the English settlers, and the two groups learned from each other. Just as the Zulu clan was at its peak, growing larger and more prosperous with each battle, Shaka learned that his beloved mother was dying. When she died, Shaka ordered the clan to follow strict mourning laws that angered many of the Zulu people and caused mass starvation. Shaka was eventually killed by his half brothers in a plot to end his reign. Although he was king for just over ten years, Shaka built a powerful nation from a small clan and is still revered today as a great king. His stories are shared among over six million Zulu descendents and others, remembering him with pride.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS
The story of Shaka and his rise to power from a struggling outcast child will inspire many readers. Stanely and Vennema have excellently portrayed the great warrior’s determination, skill, and leadership through sophisticated, yet easy to understand text. The story of his remarkable life, from beginning to end, is given in detail, highlighting his most interesting experiences. Readers will learn not only about Shaka, but the rest of the Zulu clan, and about the way of life among many African tribes in the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries.

What will captivate younger readers are Stanley’s beautiful illustrations. Each one depicts a scene from Shaka’s life, providing a visually pleasing and interesting complement to the text. However, a greater purpose of each illustration is the amount readers can learn from each one. By looking at the pictures, readers can see how the Zulus dressed, everyday and in battle. They will learn how the villages looked and see what their shelter looked like. Celebration, mourning, work, warfare, and other aspects of the Zulu life are depicted throughout this biography. Elementary age readers will enjoy reading Shaka’s story, as well as learn a great deal about historical times in Africa and one of the Zulu’s most respected leaders. A list of sources is also provided for those readers that are interested in learning more.

REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
Texas Bluebonnet Honor Book, Texas Library Association, 1992
PUBLISHER’S WEEKLY: “Dignified, detailed artwork is a befittingly regal accompaniment to this engrossing biography”
THE NEW YORK TIMES: “A thrilling introduction to the Zulu people and a remarkable chapter in African history.”
HORN BOOK: “Handsome and compelling.”

CONNECTIONS
* Read this book during Black History Month (February), celebrating the African ancestory.
* Discuss the methods that Shaka used with his people during his time as king (i.e. killing people who disobeyed, setting rules for a year-long mourning, etc.). How would his methods of ruling be viewed today, and how are they different?
* Read this book when celebrating multicultural week and compare the Zulu culture to others during the same time period.
* Read this aloud, along with other well-constructed biographies, to spark an interest in this genre.


*Other books about Shaka and the Zulu tribe

Hall, Lynn Bedford. 2005. SHAKA, WARRIOR KING OF THE ZULU. Ill. by Rene Hermans. Cape Town, South Africa: Struik Publishers. ISBN 1868254186

Klopper, Sandra. 1998. THE ZULU KINGDOM. New York: Franklin Watts Publishing. ISBN 0531202860

McKenna, Nancy Durrell. 1984. A ZULU FAMILY. Minneapolis: Lerner Publications. ISBN 0822516667

Wilson-Max, Ken 1998. HALALA MEANS WELCOME: A BOOK OF ZULU WORDS. New York: Hyperion Books for Children. ISBN 0786804149

The Art of Keeping Cool

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Lisle, Janet Taylor. 2000. THE ART OF KEEPING COOL. New York: Anthemeum Books for Young Readers. ISBN 0689837879

PLOT SUMMARY
After his father leaves to serve as a pilot in World War II, Robert, his mother, and sister move from their farm in Ohio to live near their family in Sachem’s Head, Rhode Island. Robert has never really known this side of his family: his aunt and uncle, his grandmother, his domineering grandfather, and his cousin Elliot. When Robert and Elliot aren’t at school, they spend most of their time either working for their grandparents or exploring the military base and its many intriguing elements. As Robert and Elliot become friends, Elliot shares with Robert his secret talent for drawing. Robert also learns there are many mysteries to uncover about his family and why his father left long ago without looking back. As this family works to make ends meet, each doing their part to support the war effort, they begin to uncover answers to the family’s mysterious past.

Meanwhile, the boys meet a German artist, Abel, and with Robert’s encouragement, Elliot begins to visit him, hoping to learn more about art. However, the circumstances change; ships are being attacked off the Rhode Island coast, Robert rarely hears from his father, and Abel is suspected as being a spy for the German’s. It is no longer safe for Elliot to visit Abel, but he continues to see him, as well as run errands for him and help him out in whatever way he can. As dissention among the community about Abel increases, Robert and Elliot learn of his horrific experience in Germany and what brought him to the United States, confirming to them that he is not a spy. However, the rest of the town believes he is dangerous and eventually causes the artist’s demise.

Life during times of war is very difficult for everyone, and Robert learns how everyone is affected by patriotism, prejudice, and raw emotion during his stay in Sachem’s Head. When his father’s service is completed, Robert’s family, along with Elliot, eventually moves back home, allowing Elliot to escape his grandfather’s disapproval and pursue his ambition to be an artist.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Lisle has constructed a GREAT story, giving young adult readers a glimpse at the life of a typical family during World War II. Her characters are well developed and relatable to readers. Throughout the story, they endure similar hardships and feelings of anger, disappointment, and worry as people today. There is a nice balance between factual information of the time and fiction. However, students with limited background knowledge of this era might find parts of the story more difficult to visualize or understand. Although each story line is intriguing, they rarely intertwine, making the story seem slightly less fluid.

Readers, particularly those interested in wars or this era in history, will enjoy this book, as well as gain some knowledge about the struggles felt during a time of war. Other readers will take an interest in Robert’s relationships with his grandfather, mother, sister, and cousin and how they are similar to some of their own relationships. This novel encourages its readers to think about issues such as prejudice, sacrifice, and loyalty and how they are prominent in their own lives as they are in Robert and Elliot’s lives. This thoughtful novel will be eye opening to some readers, while offering a variety of perspectives on World War II to others. Lisle’s combination of cliffhangers, intensity, and heartfelt moments make this book an excellent addition to any young adult’s reading repertoire.

REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
Scott O’Dell Award for Historical Fiction, 2001
American Library Association Notable Children’s Book
BOOKLIST: “Lisle weaves together the thrilling war action and the spy mystery with the battles in Robert's family and Robert's personal struggle with anger, jealousy, guilt, and betrayal.”
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “a heartfelt story about family dynamics and the harmful power of prejudice and hatred”
PUBLISHER’S WEEKLY: “The intimate first-person narrative brings universal themes of prejudice and loss to a personal level.”

CONNECTIONS
*Read this book aloud or as a class while studying World War II.
*While reading this book, discuss the many ways that people were affected around the world at this time in history. Compare and contrast the different attitudes of the people in America and Germany.
*While reading, discuss how Robert changes from the beginning of the novel to the end. How does he mature? How do his attitudes change, if at all?
*This book mentions some of the ways that the normal family was affected by the war (rations, closing curtains at night, etc.) Discuss these and other ways the typical family helped the war-effort.

*Other historical fiction novels set during World War II

Giff, Patricia Reilly. 1997. LILY’S CROSSING. New York: Delacorte. ISBN 0385321422
* Newberry Honor Book, 1998

Lawrence, Iain. 2004. B IS FOR BUSTER. New York: Delacorte Press. ISBN 0385730861
* Tayshas High School Reading List, Texas Library Association, 2005-2006

Lowry, Lois. 1989. NUMBER THE STARS. Boston: Houghton Mifflin. ISBN 0833552082
* Newberry Medal, 1990
* Texas Bluebonnet Honor Book, 1991

The Top of the World: Climbing Mount Everest

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Jenkins, Steve. 1999. THE TOP OF THE WORLD: CLIMBING MOUNT EVEREST. Boston: Houghton Mifflin Co. ISBN 0395942187

PLOT SUMMARY
This book takes readers through the experience of climbing Mount Everest. It begins with basic facts about the mountain; how it was formed, its measurement, the location, and how to get there. Stories of different climbers are included, as well as the many obstacles they face. The equipment used is explained in detail, followed by different things people may find on the mountain at various elevations. The book concludes with a look at what a trip up to the summit of Mount Everest would be like.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Jenkins gives a fantastic overview of Mount Everest and what it takes to climb it. The text is basic enough for younger readers to understand and be riveted by each part. The book is divided into sections, each giving a glimpse of the mountain climbing experience. Readers, young and old, will be intrigued by the interesting facts about Mount Everest and mountain climbing, a climbing experience that many will never have. However, after reading this book, people will feel as if they were a part of the great expedition up to the summit of the highest mountain in the world.

What really makes this book fantastic, however, are the beautiful illustrations, made from paper-cut collages. Jenkins’ very detailed artwork has a three-dimensional look, creating the feathery look of snow blowing in the wind, the image of rocky terrain, and a frosty feel. Some pictures provide even more information with clear labels, describing various aspects of their content. The combination of the incredible illustrations and the fascinating facts and stories will keep readers entertained and provide them with a fun learning experience.

REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
Texas Bluebonnet Honor Book, 2001
PUBLISHER’S WEEKLY: “a compendium of historical info and practical tips, illustrated with stunning cut-paper collage”
BOOKLIST: “a very attractive book, with plenty of substance for curious children”
KIRKUS REVIEWS: “The striking collages extend the information of the text and capture the majesty of the mountain.”

CONNECTIONS
*Read this book during a unit on landforms/mountains.
*Use this book and the great illustrations as an example of collage-art, and have students create their own scenes from nature with collage.
*Read this book along with others about climbers of Mount Everest when teaching about people who have made great achievements.

*Other books about Mount Everest and mountain climbers:

De Capua, Sarah. 2002. MOUNT EVEREST. New York: Children’s Press. ISBN 0516220152
*Rookie Read Aloud Geography series

Skreslet, Laurie. 2001. TO THE TOP OF EVEREST. Toronto, ON: Kids Can Press. ISBN 1550747215

Stevens, Rebecca. 2001. EVEREST. New York : Dorling Kindersley Publishing. ISBN 078947395X

Werther, Scott P. 2002. JON KRAKAUER'S ADVENTURE ON MT. EVEREST. New York: Children’s Press. ISBN 0516239023

Wild Babies

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Simon, Seymour. 1997. WILD BABIES. New York: HarperCollins. ISBN 0060230339

PLOT SUMMARY
This book describes the characteristics of animal babies from various animal groups. In words and text, Simon gives a page of information about lesser known animals: the koala, kangaroo, opossum, raccoon, polar bear, emperor penguin, giraffe, elephant, baboon, dolphin, frog, alligator, and the lynx. It provides readers with basic facts about their birth, growth, their relationship with their mothers (and sometimes fathers), and any unique traits they may have. Among many things, they will learn that frogs never see their babies, the father emperor penguin plays a very important role, and some animals living in herds even have “babysitters.”

CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Readers, especially younger ones, will be excited to learn all the interesting information in this book. The text is simple enough to understand for early readers and an easy, but still fascinating read for the older ones. The information given about each animal is basic and doesn’t go as deep as in other animal books, however the brevity just might keep readers from getting bored or spark an interest to find out more.

What will captivate readers the most are the beautiful pictures used to support Simon’s text. Each picture is in full color and takes up an entire page. The animal families are each represented in an adorable fashion, even the opossum and baboon look endearing. Emerging readers who are not ready to read the words will still enjoy this book, admiring the pictures of baby animals and those that take care of them. WILD BABIES is definitely representative of the high quality of Simon’s collection of work.

REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
BOOKLIST: “combines appealing photos with intriguing details of animal life”
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “a beautiful browsing book”
CONNECTIONS
*Read aloud during a lesson/unit on animal mothers and babies or growing up.
*Use this book to highlight various animal habitats and the exotic animals that live there.
*Read aloud to spark an interest in nonfiction among students.

Other animal books by Seymour Simon:
Simon, Seymour. 1991. BIG CATS. New York: HarperCollins. ISBN 0060216468
*Texas Bluebonnet Reading List, 1992-1993

Simon, Seymour. 2000. GORILLAS. New York: HarperCollins. ISBN 0060230363

Simon, Seymour. 1995. SHARKS. New York: HarperCollins. ISBN 0060230290
*Texas Bluebonnet Honor Book, 1997

Simon, Seymour. 1992. SNAKES. New York: HarperCollins. ISBN 0060225300
*Texas Bluebonnet Reading List, 1994 -1995

Simon, Seymour. 1993. WOLVES. New York: HarperCollins. ISBN 0060225343

Team Moon: How 400,000 People Landed Apollo 11 on the Moon

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Thimmesh, Catherine. 2006. TEAM MOON: HOW 400,000 PEOPLE LANDED APOLLO 11 ON THE MOON. New York: Houghton Mifflin Company. ISBN 0618174974

PLOT SUMMARY
This book takes the reader through the series of preparations, actions, struggles, and triumphs that were all a part of the Apollo 11 mission that first put a man on the moon. Supported by several quotes from those involved, this historic account begins with the world watching the mission on television, then it takes readers back through the process of getting there, highlighting the years of work and accomplishments of all the behind-the-scenes workers.

These are the people who built the spacecraft and its many parts, designed the suits that protected the astronauts, ensured superb photography on the moon, tested each aspect of the flight, and developed protocol for any triggered alarm. The book also covers the work of the people who conducted research about the moon, those who anticipated equipment failure and found solutions, even the people in Australia who worked on the satellite in dangerous conditions in order for the world to see this spectacular moment in history. Readers also learn about the people who worked to keep “moon germs” contained, and those who kept in constant communication with Buzz Aldrin, Neil Armstrong, and Michael Collins throughout the entire journey. It truly took 400,000 people to make sure Apollo 11 made it to the moon and back to Earth safely.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Thimmesh offers readers a complete look at what went on behind-the-scenes with the Apollo 11 mission. In the many sections of this book, readers can feel as if they were a part of this amazing accomplishment, reading about the processes taken by everyone involved and experiencing the raw emotions of the workers through direct quotes placed intermittently throughout the pages. The author uses, and briefly explains, a lot of NASA jargon that may leave some readers confused at times, however the stories told will hold their interest as they continue reading.

The fantastic photographs on every page are one of the strongest aspects of this book, providing visual support to the words and amazing readers with their clear detail and beauty in combination with their awesome content. Most of the pictures are accompanied by a very detailed caption that describes the picture, discusses the context of the moment it was taken, and even includes the equipment used to take the photograph. The pictures really enrich the experience of the reader, allowing them to feel as if they were part of the crowd watching the moon landing along with the rest of the world back in 1969. NASA provided the majority of these photographs, with a few exceptions provided by individuals.

A comprehensive bibliography is found at the end, as well as a helpful index and glossary. The author has also provided readers interested in learning more with great resources, including websites, DVD titles, and basic information about other Apollo missions. This well-designed and highly interesting book would be a great addition to any collection, offering older readers the chance to relive their own experience watching the Apollo 11 mission and younger readers the opportunity to learn about this “giant leap for mankind.”

REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
ALA Notable Book for Children, 2007
ALA Best Book for Young Adults, 2007
Texas Bluebonnet Honor Book, 2008
Starred Review in PUBLISHER’S WEEKLY: “This behind-the-scenes look at the first Apollo moon landing has the feel of a public television documentary in its breadth and detail.”
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “authoritative tribute to the collective effort that left ...footprints, crisp and clear, pressed purposefully and magnificently into the lunar dust belongs in every collection”
HORN BOOK: “a spectacular and highly original addition to the literature of space exploration”
Starred review in KIRKUS REVIEWS: "This beautiful and well-documented tribute will introduce a new generation to that triumphant time."

CONNECTIONS
*Read aloud the accounts in this book throughout a unit on astronomy or the solar system. This book can be broken up into sections, each one about a different aspect of Apollo 11’s journey.
*If short on time, teachers can use smaller pieces of this book that pertain directly to their learning objectives.
*Use this book in a study about several missions to the moon or in space.
*Use the fantastic pictures to supplement a lesson about the moon.


Other books about the moon and space travel:

Hehner, Barbara. 1999. FIRST ON THE MOON : WHAT IT WAS LIKE WHEN MAN LANDED ON THE MOON. Ill. By Greg Ruhl. New York: Hyperion Books for Children. ISBN 0786804890

McNulty, Faith. 2005. IF YOU DECIDE TO GO TO THE MOON. New York: Scholastic. ISBN 0590483595

Orme, Helen. 2007. LET’S EXPLORE THE MOON. Milwaukee, WI: Gareth Stevens. ISBN 0836879430

Other subjects in the “Let’s Explore” series include:
The Sun, Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, Pluto and Beyond

Keesha's House

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Frost, Helen. 2003. KEESHA’S HOUSE. New York: Frances Foster Books. ISBN 0374340641

PLOT SUMMARY
Through poetry, Frost describes the interwoven lives of seven teenagers “wearing lives designed for people twice their age.” Stephi is sixteen, pregnant, and trying to straighten out her feelings for her boyfriend, Jason. He is also trying to figure out his feelings for Stephi and his plans for a future. Dontay has yet to find a home with foster parents, while his friend Carmen spends time in juvenile detention for a DUI charge. Harris was kicked out of his home after revealing his homosexuality, and Katie tries to focus on her job and schoolwork, while avoiding her abusive stepfather. These teens find a safe haven in Keesha’s house (owned by Joe), a place where Keesha has escaped her own abusive and neglectful parents.
Keesha reaches out to her peers in need of a safe place to stay, and those that join her, whether temporarily or for a longer amount of time, find a way deal with the situation they’ve been dealt. Others, while not living at Keesha’s house, keep company with the teens who have stayed there, all overcoming obstacles and working to better their lives. Each one learns how to ask for help, the value of helping others, and most importantly, that “home is in your mind.”

CRITICAL ANALYSIS
This verse novel is written in two poetry forms, primarily sestinas and some sonnets, each type explained in further detail at the book’s conclusion. Frost’s poetry allows readers to feel the heaviness of each character’s circumstance, with every poem loaded with figurative language, symbolism, and a dismal effect. The words are easy to read, yet they are so powerful and exude a great deal of emotion.
Through reading this novel, students will learn to appreciate forms of poetry different from what is most familiar to students. They will also gain some insight on social issues and obstacles that many teens in today’s world face. Although some teens will personally relate to these characters, many young adult readers will not directly relate to the somewhat controversial or disturbing issues brought up in this novel. However, they will be able to relate to the presence of teen angst, as well as understand and sympathize with Keesa and lives of the people she touches. These readers will hopefully find encouragement for the own lives, seeing how difficult situations can be overcome.

REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
Michael L. Printz Award Honor Book, American Library Association, 2004
Tayshas High School Reading List, Texas Library Association, 2005-2006
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY: “a thoughtfully composed and ultimately touching book”
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “The poems that recount these stories unfold realistically. Revealing heartbreak and hope, these poems could stand alone, but work best as a story collection.”
BOOKLIST: “This moving first novel tells the story in a series of dramatic monologues that are personal, poetic, and immediate.”

CONNECTIONS
*Use this book, or individual poems from it, to introduce an issue that is more difficult to touch on in schools.
*Read other verse novels by Helen Frost and other poets. Compare and contrast the forms of poetry used as well as the other poetic elements used in the novels.
*Use Frost poetry to expose students to lesser-known forms of poetry.

*Other verse novels by Helen Frost

Frost, Helen. 2006. THE BRAID. New York: Farrar, Straus and Giroux. ISBN 0374309620

Frost, Helen. 2004. SPINNING THROUGH THE UNIVERSE: A NOVEL IN POEMS FROM ROOM 214. New York: Farrar, Straus and Giroux. ISBN 0374371598

The World According to Dog: poems and teen voices

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Sidman, Joyce. 2003. THE WORLD ACCORDING TO DOG: POEMS AND TEEN VOICES. Photos by Doug Mindell. Boston: Houghton Mifflin Company. ISBN 0618174974

PLOT SUMMARY
This collection of haiku and free verse poems tells the many stories that dogs and their people have. Some of the poems are about dogs waking up in your face, how they play, chase squirrels, and get into trouble. Others talk about how dogs understand their people, take over their bed, and protect them. Several essays, written by young adults, accompany the poems with other stories about their own dogs. These writings explain the feelings the teens have for their dogs, include accounts of when they got their dogs as well as when they lost them. The collection concludes with a poems of “dog” sayings, showing just how prominent these loveable animals are in our lives and in our language.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Inspired by her own dog and “poetry muse,” Joyce Sidman has developed a playful, and often sentimental collection of poetry and essays. Readers, especially those who have had a dog, will find that they can relate many, if not all, of these poems to their own experience with dogs. Many will laugh, others may cry, as they recall memories of their own dogs and see the world through the eyes of man’s best friend.

Essays, obtained through listserves and teen websites, add a different personal effect to this collection of poetry. Each essay includes a photo and a memorable account of a teen’s real pet, bringing smiles to readers’ faces. These writings offer a unique support to Sidman’s work, helping to tell the dogs’ stories and add to the experience of reading each poem. Through these essays, readers will remember that the companionship of a dog is irreplaceable, providing the friendship and love needed at the end of a long day.

Each of these poems is paired with a grayscale photograph of a dog, often experiencing the words of Sidman’s poems. Mindell uses light and a blurred effect in each photo, allowing readers to pinpoint the focus of each scene. They are perfectly matched and beautifully show the personality of each dog, strengthening the poems’ effect for readers.


REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “some may well be inspired to express their own thoughts about the world of dog in writing or pictures”
KIRKUS REVIEW: “Dog lovers will likely lap it up eagerly, budding writers will snuffle it with interest “
BOOKLIST: “heartfelt prose about intense bonds with dogs that will resonate with other teen dog lovers”

CONNECTIONS
*Use this book to increase student appreciation of free verse poetry and haiku.
*Use this book to bridge students from writing essays to poetry, showing the similarities in expression between the teen essays and Sidman’s poems.
*Compare and contrast Sidman’s poetry in several of her different collections.


*Other poetry collections by Joyce Sidman

Sidman, Joyce. 2007. THIS IS JUST TO SAY: POEMS OF APOLOGY AND FORGIVENESS. Ill. by Pamela Zagarenski. Boston: Houghton Mifflin Company. ISBN 0 618616802
* Texas Bluebonnet nominee, 2008

Sidman, Joyce. 2005. SONGS OF THE WATER BOATMAN AND OTHER POND POEMS. Ill. by Beckie Prange. Boston: Houghton Mifflin Company. ISBN 0618135472
* Caldecott Honor Book, 2006

Sidman, Joyce. 2002. EUREKA: POEMS ABOUT INVENTORS. Ill. by K. Bennett Chavez. Brookfield, Connecticut: Millbrook Press. ISBN 0761316655

Sidman, Joyce. 2006. MEOW RUFF: A STORY IN CONCRETE POETRY. Ill by. Michelle Berg. Boston: Houghton Mifflin Company. ISBN 0618448942

Comets, Stars, the Moon, and Mars

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Florian, Douglas. 2007. COMETS, STARS, THE MOON, AND MARS. Orlando: Harcourt, Inc. ISBN 0152053727

PLOT SUMMARY
This collection of outer space verse begins with poems about sky-watching, the universe, and galaxies. Then, Florian’s poems go through the solar system, from the sun, through the asteroid belt, to Pluto, and all the planets in between. The poetry continues with poems about comets, stars, the black hole, and beyond. The end of this collection has “A Galactic Glossary” that gives further information about the key parts of the universe Florian has included in his poetry.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS
This compilation of poems reflects some of Florian’s best work. Each poem provides basic, sometimes lesser-known facts about its subject as well as offers an element of fun. Readers will enjoy the creative rhymes and be hooked by the interesting information they learn as the poems continue.

Florian’s gouache paintings, collage work, and use of rubber stamps come together to create unique illustrations. The use of bright colors, shapes, and an element of texture on every page add a significant visual effect to each of these poems, reinforcing the text, as well as label various objects for added information.

Fans of Douglas Florian and other readers will be entertained by these poems and their accompanying illustrations, particularly the comedic points and the random planetary information. Teachers will appreciate the educational element found in each poem as well as in the additional facts, resources, and available website addresses found in the back, supplementing Florian’s poems with more interesting information. This is a quality collection of poetry, and would be a great addition to any library.

REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
Texas Bluebonnet Honor Book, 2008
Starred review in HORN BOOK: “an expansive and illuminating view of the subject”
NEW YORK TIMES BOOK REVIEW: “brings warm wit to the outermost reaches of cold, dark space”
Starred KIRKUS REVIEW: “characteristically playful, wrapping itself around astronomical facts with ease”
Starred review in SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “In both language and artwork, Florian strikes the perfect balance between grandeur and whimsy.”

CONNECTIONS
*Read this book along with other collections written by Douglas Florian. Compare and contrast his style of poetry writing, as well as his artwork.
*Use this book as a supplement to a unit on the planets and our solar system. Have students point out the factual information Florian provides as well as the elements meant to entertain.
*Use these poems for a readers’ theater activity.

*Other poetry collections by Douglas Florian include:

Florian, Douglas. 1998. INSECTLOPEDIA. San Diego: Harcourt Brace. ISBN 0152013067

Florian, Douglas. 2004. OMINBEASTS. Orlando: Harcourt. ISBN 0152050388

Florian, Douglas. 2003. BOW WOW MEOW MEOW: IT’S RHYMING CATS AND DOGS. San Diego: Harcourt Brace. ISBN 0152163956

*Other galactic poetry collections include:

Fisher, Eileen Lucia. 2001. SING OF THE EARTH AND SKY : POEMS ABOUT OUR PLANET AND THE WONDERS BEYOND. Ill. by Karmen Thompson. Honesdale, PA: Boyds Mills Press. ISBN 1563978024

Hopkins, Lee Bennett. 1995. BLAST OFF!: POEMS ABOUT SPACE. Ill. by Melissa Sweet. New York: HarperCollins Publishers. ISBN 0060242604

Simon, Seymour. STAR WALK. 1995. New York: Morrow Junior Books. ISBN 0688118879

What About Me?

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Young, Ed. 2002. WHAT ABOUT ME?. New York: Philomel Books. ISBN 0399236244

PLOT SUMMARY
In this book, Ed Young retells an ancient Sufi tale that teaches the nature of giving and receiving. A young boy wants to acquire some knowledge, so he goes to ask the Grand Master how he can gain some of his knowledge. However, the Grand Master has needs, too. He would like a carpet in exchange for his imparted wisdom. Here the story takes off on a wild chase, the boy seeking an item from various people who all are willing to give the boy what he needs if he can give them what they need. The boy finally meets a girl who can help him supply everyone with what they are looking for. As a result, he takes a carpet back to the Grand Master and learns two lessons about giving and receiving, and how knowledge may be acquired.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Young’s words flow easily throughout the pages of this retelling, with an abundance of dialogue to add voice to the simple organization of the tale. Repetition in the text and predictability will draw the attention of younger readers, while creating some anticipation in what is to come.

The bold collage artwork on a speckled background gives the book an antique look, with each page complementing the text and adding more to the story. Each character is pieced together, creatively showing off how people of the Middle East dressed as well as giving the characters a personality through the expression in their body language.

An author’s note found at the at the beginning gives readers a little background in Sufi teaching tales and their origin, allowing readers to notice various elements of this traditional tale. Although many will enjoy the story, they might miss the morals given at the end without an explanation. This book highlights a culture that is less represented in literature, making it a great multicultural addition to any library collection.

REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY: “collage illustrations frequently achieve a nearly transcendent lightness and simplicity”
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “A welcome supplement to basic folk and fairy-tale collections”
starred review in BOOKLIST: “will make children think as well as smile.”

CONNECTIONS
*Begin a book study on Sufi or other Middle Eastern folktales. Discuss common themes and morals as well as the differences among the tales.
*Share this book with other multi-cultural folktales during a unit on other cultures or traditions.


*Other Sufi or Middle Eastern folktales for children are:

Shah, Idries. 2000. THE SILLY CHICKEN. Ill. by Jeff Jackson. Cambridge, MA: Hoopoe Books. ISBN 1883536197

Shah, Idries. 2006. THE CLEVER BOY AND THE TERRIBLE, DANGEROUS ANIMAL. Ill. by Rose Mary Santiago. Cambridge, MA: Hoopoe Books. ISBN 1883536642

Chickerella

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Auch, Mary Jane & Herm Auch. 2005. CHICKERELLA. New York: Holiday House. ISBN 0823418049

PLOT SUMMARY
Chickerella, a fashion-conscious chicken, has a good life until her stepmother and stepsisters come to make her miserable. Her fancy dresses are given to her stepsisters, and she is quickly moved out of the main coop into the springhouse, where she begins to lay eggs made of pure glass.

Then, the stepsisters are invited to the Fowl Ball, an event that Chickerella would like to attend so she can look at the pretty dresses, rather than marry the prince. Instead, she is forced to design and make dresses for her stepsisters to wear, only to be locked in the springhouse. Chickerella’s Fairy Goosemother appears and helps her on her way to the Fowl Ball in a beautiful dress, where her fine fashion sense intrigues the prince. Chickerella has to leave early, but not without laying one of her glass eggs. Determined to find Chickerella, the prince orders all the hens to present their eggs so he may find the one to match the glass egg. The prince then finds Chickerella and her matching egg. When they learn of their common interest in fashion, as well as their lack of desire to be married, they become designing partners with the Fairy Goosemother and create the successful fashion line called Chickerella.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS
CHICKERELLA is an entertaining, light-hearted spoof of the fairytale Cinderella. The similarities in the story are obvious, but many details are changed, including a completely different ending where the normal “happily ever after” has a new meaning. The text is filled with chicken puns and the clever use of all things chicken and eggs. Young readers will be kept laughing throughout this fractured fairytale, especially if the harder to understand expressions throughout the story are explained to them.

However, what makes this story stand out is the artwork. As noted at the beginning, each picture was created from a miniature photo shoot. Mary Jane Auch made small three-dimensional chickens, dressed them, and used various materials such as clay, wire, and other small objects to create facial expressions, accessories, and other props. Scenes for each illustration were created and then photographed and digitally altered to achieve the right effect, while maintaining the mulit-dimensional look. Each picture includes an enormous amount of detail to complement the story, from facial expressions and room décor to Chickerella’s brand-name “Chickenstock” shoes. Some readers, however, may be distracted by this interesting and highly creative artwork to pick up on all of the details in the text.

Overall, this is a fun story that will keep readers entertained and wanting to find out more about its loveable characters. They will certainly enjoy this new, and very original twist to the traditional Cinderella.


REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “the ending will satisfy children who like 'eggstravaganzas'”
HORN BOOK: “funny, original illustrations”
KIRKUS REVIEW: “another eggceptional addition to the oeuvre of this feather-brained duo”

CONNECTIONS
*Read CHICKERELLA along with other Cinderella stories or parodies, and compare and contrast
*Read some of Auch’s other chicken-related works. Look for and discuss the many allusions to chicken, eggs, etc.
*After reading CHICKERELLA, have students create their own fairytale parody.


*Other Cinderella stories

Daly, Jude. 2000. FAIR, BROWN & TREMBLING: AN IRISH CINDERELLA STORY. New York: Farrar Straus & Giroux. ISBN 0374322473

Edwards, Pamela Duncan. 1997. DINORELLA: A PREHISTORIC FAIRY TALE. Ill. by Henry Cole. New York: Hyperion Books for Children. ISBN 0786803096

Lowell, Susan. 2000. CINDY ELLEN: A WILD WESTERN CINDERELLA. Ill by Jane Manning. New York: Harper Collins. ISBN 0060274468

Martin, Rafe. 1992. THE ROUGH-FACE GIRL. Ill. by David Shannon. New York: G.P. Putnam’s Sons. ISBN 0399218599

Whipple, Laura. 2002. IF THE SHOE FITS: VOICES FROM CINDERELLA. Ill. by Laura Beingessner. New York: M.K. McElderry Books. ISBN 0689840705


*Other chicken parodies by Mary Jane Auch

Auch, Mary Jane. 1997. BANTAM OF THE OPERA. New York: Holiday House. ISBN 0823413128

Auch, Mary Jane. 1999. THE NUTQUACKER. New York: Holiday House. ISBN 0823415244

Auch, Mary Jane. 1993. PEEPING BEAUTY. New York: Holiday House. ISBN 0823410013

Porch Lies: Tales of Slicksters, Tricksters, and Other Wily Characters

BIBLIOGRAPHY
McKissack, Patricia. 2006. PORCH LIES: TALES OF SLICKSTERS, TRICKSTERS, AND OTHER WILY CHARACTERS. Ill. By André Carrilho. New York: Schwartz & Wade Books. ISBN 0375836195

PLOT SUMMARY
In this story collection, Patricia McKissack shares ten fictitious tales. Some are modeled after stories she heard as a child, and some are her own originals. They are all written based on the African American oral storytelling tradition. Through these stories, you will meet sly characters that outsmart and trick other people, and get by just on their wits.

Readers will learn how Pete Bruce got a free pie, but eventually became Mis Martha June’s best customer. They will see why freeloading Mingo Cass always carried a one hundred dollar bill in his wallet and how he used it to get free haircuts for a year. Next, readers will travel on the road with bluesman, Mr. James “Bukka” Black and watch as he denies the Devil’s guitar to save his soul. The lies continue with Aunt Gran and her plot to get the famous outlaws Frank and Jesse James to save her farm from Farley and the Knights, while forming a life-long friendship with the dangerous criminals.

Readers will experience the dream that saved Clovis Reed “by the weight of a feather” and made him go through with his wedding. Then, Mis Crickett is almost buried alive by her crooked lawyer, but saved by her twisted, jewel thieving, jitney service partner. Readers will hear “the best lie ever told” and many others in an all-county liar’s contest. They will learn how Montgomery Red used an ordinary rock to tame the King of the Ghosts and ended up with a house full of cats. This collection wraps up explaining the possible immortality of Cake Norris and his trip within the holding station of the afterlife.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS
McKissack brings out the richness of the African American culture in this entertaining collection of folk tales. The author’s note at the beginning fully explains the tradition of storytelling within this culture and how her short stories originated, leaving readers excited to hear about the crazy characters. With hints of a southern dialect throughout the collection, and an explanation to the origin of each story, it is easy to feel like a part of the group listening on the porch swing.

Carrilho’s illustrations are few, but add a bit of visualization to each story. The details are lacking, however the expression of each character in the artwork is clear. These grayscale, charicature-like illustrations do not aid in storytelling, but rather bring out the personalities of McKissack’s wily, yet charming characters.

This book gives readers a glimpse of what it was like to live during The Great Depression, lets some see the perspective of a different culture, and allows them to learn to appreciate a good lie – or story. True porch lies were meant “to teach a value, to encourage us to think critically, or just to entertain,” and McKissack does a good job in achieving this purpose. Readers are provided with fun stories, some with a good lesson, that also allow them to experience the grand tradition of storytelling.

REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “great leisure listening and knowing chuckles”
Starred review in BOOK LIST: “surprising twists and turns that are true to trickster tradition”
ALA Notable Children’s Book, 2007

CONNECTIONS
*Use PORCH LIES along with other story collections to recreate the oral storytelling ritual with students. Each student can read a short story to the group.
*After reading PORCH LIES and other story collections, discuss the African American storytelling tradition, then have the students create their own stories to pass along to their friends and families.
*Use PORCH LIES to teach the difference between fantasy and realism.


*Other multicultural story collections

Ada, Alma Flor & F. Isabel Campoy. Ill by Felipe Davalos, Susan Guevara, and Leyla Torres. 2006. TALES OUR ABUELITAS TOLD: A HISPANIC FOLKTALE COLLECTION. New York: Atheneum. ISBN 0689825838

Jungman, Ann. 2008. THE PRINCE WHO THOUGHT HE WAS A ROOSTER AND OTHER JEWISH STORIES. London: Frances Lincoln. ISBN 1845077938
**not yet published – released on February 28, 2008

McKissack, Patricia. 1992. THE DARK-THIRTY: SOUTHERN TALES OF THE SUPERNATURAL. Ill. by Brian Pinkney. New York: Knopf Books for Young Readers. ISBN 0679918639
**Newberry Honor Book, 1993
**Coretta Scott King Author Award, 1993

My Friend Rabbit

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Rohmann, Eric. 2002. MY FRIEND RABBIT. Brookfield, Connecticut: Roaring Book Press. ISBN 0761324208

PLOT SUMMARY
Eric Rohmann shares a tale of friendship between a rabbit and a mouse in this endearing book. Rabbit seems to find trouble “whatever he does, wherever he goes,” and mouse is always around to tag along. The two are playing with a toy airplane when it gets stuck in a tree. As usual, Rabbit has a plan; this one consisting of gathering several animals, and stacking them on top of each other to reach the tall branches. When the plan fails and everyone tumbles to the ground, the animals are not happy, leaving Rabbit the target of their anger. However, Mouse was able to get the toy airplane and save his grateful friend Rabbit from the others.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS
This story begins with simple text that gives readers and listeners the information they will need to really understand the rest. The minimal amount of remaining text assist in moving the story along, as this story is primarily told though pictures.

Rohmann’s bright illustrations begin supporting his words, but quickly take responsibility for the characterization and plot development. The amount work Rabbit puts into his plan, the support that Mouse tries to give, and the confusion, irritability, and other emotions of the annoyed animals are clear in the great attention to detail Rohmann has. Readers will not mistake the expressions on the animals’ faces, and their eyes will be drawn to the vibrant colors used throughout.

This almost wordless story is simple to follow, but still leaves room for children to imagine various parts throughout the sequences of events. Many children can relate to this story, as it is easy to understand the bond between Rabbit and Mouse. Young readers will find joy and humor in this heartwarming story of unconditional friendship.

REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
Caldecott Medal winner, 2003
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “comically expressive pictures”
BOOKLIST: “Tremendous physical humor”
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY: “gentle lesson in patience and loyalty, balanced on the back of a hilarious set of illustrations”

CONNECTIONS
*This book can bring about a great discussion on friendship, loyalty, and encouragement as well as making good decisions about friendship and the trouble one may get into with friends.
*Gather other books written and/or illustrated by Eric Rohmann. Compare and contrast his artwork, focusing on the animal characters he creates.


*Other books for children written and illustrated by Eric Rohmann are:

Rohmann, Eric. 2008. A KITTEN TALE. New York: Knopf Books for Young Readers. ISBN 0517709153

Rohmann, Eric. 2001. THE CINDER-EYED CATS. New York: Dragonfly Books. ISBN 0440417430

Rohmann, Eric. 1997. TIME FLIES. New York: Dragonfly Books. ISBN 0517885557

Side By Side: Five Favorite Picture-Book Teams Go To Work

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Marcus, Leonard S. 2001. SIDE BY SIDE: FIVE FAVORITE PICTURE-BOOK TEAMS GO TO WORK. New York: Walker & Company. ISBN 0802787789

PLOT SUMMARY
Throughout this book, Marcus gives readers some insight into the world of picture book creation, as it happened to five different collaborative teams. He begins with the interesting, and rather coincidental, story of how Arthur Yorinks and Richard Egielski came to publish the book Louis the Fish (Farrar, Straus & Girous, 1980) and several other children’s books together. The next featured team is the husband and wife duo Martin and Alice Provensen. Each beginning their careers as “largely self-trained” artists working at rival story/animation departments, Marin and Alice eventually illustrated over forty books, co-authoring nineteen of them. This books highlights their accomplishment of publishing The Glorious Flight: Across the Channel with Louis Bleriot (Viking, 1983).

The book continues with the detailed account of how Jon Scieszka and Lane Smith began their collaborative author-illustrator relationship, and then brought on Molly Leach as a publication designer for their widely successful book The Stinky Cheese Man and Other Fairly Stupid Tales (Viking, 1992). Next, Marcus tells readers the story of how the old controversial tale and banned book, The Story of Little Black Sambo (Bannerman, 1899), was remade by collaborators who rarely saw or spoke to each other. Julius Lester and Jerry Pinkney worked together on several picture books, but the story of Sam and the Tigers (Dial, 1996) allowed them to bring back joy and the childhood memories of many in this new version of an old tale.

The book concludes with a detailed account of the creation and publication process of The Magic School Bus series, mainly The Magic School Bus Explores the Senses (Scholastic, 1999). Marcus shows readers the extent of the research, rewriting, redrawing, and hard work it took for each of Joanna Cole and Bruce Degen’s books to be of the quality that readers have loved over the years.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS
This work of nonfiction allows readers to jump inside the process of collaboration in picture book creation. Marcus’ explanation of each teams’ work is clear and includes several anecdotes about how each team came to be or about various steps along their way to the publication of their books. Direct quotes from each team are also included. These small stories and quotes help readers to relate to the authors and illustrators as people and understand more clearly the long and very involved process of creating a picture book. Many readers, young and old, will be surprised at the amount of work each creation took, learning how a picture is not just a picture and a text is not just a group of words. They will see the many aspects that go into each illustration, sentence, even the design of the book.

The illustrations provided in this book are not used to assist in story-telling, but rather to share real artifacts of each collaborative teams’ work. These pictures include photos of each team, copies of finished illustrations found in the highlighted literature, rough copies of sketches, writing, and page layout. These, as well as pictures of authentic dummy books visually break down the creation of each book and help readers to better understand the intense process.

Any student, ages ten and up, with an aptitude of art or a love of children’s literature will be interested in the content of this book. They may find inspiration in the hard work of each team, and having a behind-scenes-look at creating picture books may encourage them to follow their own interests and dreams.

REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “Humorous anecdotes and personal comments make the figures come alive.”
Starred review in BOOKLIST: “a wealth of interesting details about these creative individuals and their books”

CONNECTIONS
*A great support for teaching students (4th grade and up) about the creation of children’s books. This would most likely work best if read in pieces, not all at once.
* Art teachers could use the description of artist inspiration with their students, discussing the depth of illustrations.
* This title, along with other similar books, could be a starting point in a class where students collaborate (or work alone) to create their own picture books.


*Other books for children about picture book creation by Leonard S. Marcus:

Marcus, Leonard S. 2008. A CALDECOTT CELEBRATION: SEVEN ARTISTS AND THEIR PATHS TO THE CALDECOTT MEDAL. New York: Walker Books for Young Readers. ISBN 0802797032
** to be released on February 5, 2008
**an update of Marcus’ previous work in A CALDECOTT CELEBRATION: SIX ARTISTS SHARE THEIR PATHS TO THE CALEDECOTT MEDAL (1999)

Marcus, Leonard S. 2002. WAYS OF TELLING: CONVERSATIONS ON THE ART OF THE PICTURE BOOK. New York: Dutton Children’s Books. ISBN 0525464905

Henry's Freedom Box

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Levine, Ellen. 2007. HENRY’S FREEDOM BOX. Ill. By Kadir Nelson. New York: Scholastic Press. ISBN 043977733X

PLOT SUMMARY
In this picture book, Ellen Levine tells the story of a famous runaway slave, Henry “Box” Brown. The story begins with Henry as a child, growing up as a slave and dreaming of freedom. He is forced to leave his family to work for a new, more intense master, where Henry and the other slaves are badly mistreated. When he gets older, he meets his future wife, builds a life with her and their small children, all of whom are sold at the slave market, leaving Henry all alone. Not willing to accept his upsetting and depressing situation, Henry devises a plan to mail himself to freedom. After a long, uncomfortable journey in a crate, Henry reaches friends in Philadelphia and celebrates his first day of freedom.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Levine paints a beautiful picture in words throughout this heart-wrenching story. Her sentences are often short and simple, allowing younger readers and listeners, even those with little prior knowledge, to fully understand the concept of slavery. The music of her words “Henry twisted tobacco leaves. His heart twisted in his chest,” shows readers how sad the lives of slaves were as well as allows them to feel the desperation the characters portray. Readers will undoubtedly be touched by the sadness and pain of Henry’s life as well as experience his joy when he finally becomes a free man.

Nelson’s artwork adds volumes to Levine’s already artistic writing. The pencil, watercolor, and oil illustrations flawlessly portray the expression and emotion of Henry “Box” Brown’s remarkable story, allowing readers to see the true emotions and motivations of the characters. Nelson’s attention to details beautifully contributes a life-like quality to his art throughout the book, leaving readers even more captured by the words and the illustrations that move with them.

An author’s note found at the end shares more information about Henry “Box” Brown and the Underground Railroad. Sharing this story with younger and older children alike will teach them and help them to understand a dark part in our nation’s history. They will find the life of this runaway slave fascinating. It just might spark an interest and motivate them to find out more about slavery, the Underground Railroad, and how our nation has been affected by this time in history.

REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
A Caldecott Honor Book, 2008
A KIRKUS REVIEWS Best Book and starred review: “sonorous prose that makes a perfect match for the art”
Editors’ choice and starred review in BOOKLIST: “Transcending technique is the humanity Nelson imbues in his characters.”

CONNECTIONS
*Use this book and others about the Underground Railroad in a unit about slavery in the United States.
*Share this story along with Moses: When Harriet Tubman Led Her People To Freedom (Jump at the Sun, 2006) and compare Nelson’s artwork in both.
*Begin a study on famous runaway slaves and the people who helped them.


*Other books for children about slavery and the Underground Railroad are:

Hopkinson, Deborah. 2002. UNDER THE QUILT OF NIGHT. Ill. by James E. Ransome. New York: Atheneum/Anne Schwartz Books. ISBN 0689822278

Ringold, Faith. 1992. AUNT HARRIET’S UNDERGROUND RAILROAD IN THE SKY. New York: Crown Publishers, Inc. ISBN 0517587688

Weatherford, Carole Boston. 2006. MOSES: WHEN HARRIET TUBMAN LED HER PEOPLE TO FREEDOM. Ill. by Kadir Nelson. New York: Jump at the Sun. ISBN 0786851759
**Caldecott Honor Book, 2007