Book Spot

Noah Barleywater Runs Away by John Boyne

2011-10-01T15:41:00.000-05:00

Noah is only eight and still innocent enough to believe that running away from problems will rid him of the problems. We are given a vivid picture of him quietly leaving the house, walking down the road, and taking one last look back at home and that is when normalacy ends. The reader is slowly, yet convincingly thrust into a world that is not ordinary as Noah travels through villages where apple trees walk out into the sun each morning, where apples disappear from his pocket, and when the road slowly becomes a path and then disappears in the midst of a dense wood. Meeting a talking dachshund and ever-hungry donkey, Noah finds nothing unusual about that until he comes upon a toy shop that is every child's dream. While becoming lost in the multitude of unique wooden toys, Noah begins to notice their magical qualities: ever watchful puppets, scurrying wooden mice, and a clock that eats. To top it off, there is an unusual toymaker who offers Noah lunch and ultimately a story to tell. It is a story that deeply affects Noah, a story of adventure but also regret as the Toymaker relates how he wasn't there when his father ultimately dies. It is then that the author gently leads his young readers to the realization that Noah's problem is that his mother is dying and through the gently guidance of the old Toymaker, Noah returns home to be with his mother.

The author has taken the story of Pinocchio and has continued the story of the puppet's adventure, and consequence, of being a real boy who makes real-life mistakes. Within this story's construct, the author provides gentle lessons for young readers about responsibility, love, and family. A delightful surprise of a book, young readers will find this story engrossing with its magical overtones, balanced by a real life drama that is sadly, all too true for many young children.

Miss Dorothy and Her Bookmobile by Gloria Houston

2011-07-19T15:15:00.000-05:00

Houston, Gloria. 2011. Miss Dorothy and Her Bookmobile. Illus. by Susan Lamb.

Harper Collins

In a time when librarians are hitting the floor like excess film, this book seeks to be uplifting and positive about the effect that a librarian can have upon a community but in this reviewers opinion, it falls short.

Ever since Dorothy was a young girl she wanted to be a librarian because she loves books and people. Ideally she wants to be a librarian in a fine brick building but after marrying, she finds herself in a small rural area in North Carolina that has no library. The town rallies and buys a book mobile and with donated books, Dorothy begins traveling throughout the area. In time, a small house is donated to become the local library and as Dorothy nears retirement, she still helps people find that just right book(s).

There are numerous disappointments for me with this book. Miss Dorothy may love books and wish to bring them to others but she does not speak or believe like I would hope a librarian would. When the people came together and decided they needed a book mobile to reach all the people, Dorothy argued that “A library is a building with shelves and books and windows.” Yet the people persevered and collected enough funds to buy a bookmobile. When a house was finally donated to be the town library, Dorothy shows no joy but states, “It will have to do.” Miss Dorothy sighed, remembering the fine brick library in her hometown. How depressing to have a populace that loves and wants access to books and does the best they can, only to have the librarian sigh and be unhappy with the best that there can be.

The illustrations are fluffy and idealistic, so far from the historical truth of this area during the early 1900s. Everyone is well dressed, the houses are all in a state of perfection, and there are no obvious signs of differing economic or educational status other than one log house. I so wanted to like this book, hoping for a positive story of a librarian’s influence upon a community. While some influence is apparent in the story, in my opinion it isn’t enough to compensate for the poor outlook of a librarian.

Thelonious Mouse by Orel Protopopescu

2011-07-11T21:06:00.000-05:00

Protopopescu, Orel. 2011. Thelonious Mouse. Illus. by Anne Wilsdorf. Farrar Straus Giroux. ISBN: 9780374374471

Grades 3 – 5

Thelonious is a cool cat, for a mouse. In fact, he’s nothing like your typical mouse. He’s as cool as the eight-footed time of his rhythm and rhymes that populate this rather delightful picture book complete with illustrations that are as busy as Thelonious.

Not content to scurry quietly around like his siblings who are proper mice, Thelonious dances and prances his way across the floor, slapping his tail while scavenging for food when Fat Cat naps. Yet even when the cat wakes up and gives chase, Thelonious can’t help but sing and swing his tail in time with his songs as he scampers gleefully back to his hole. Taking pride in never losing his beat, no matter how close the chase, he finally is just a wee bit too cocky for his own good. Thelonious ends up trapped in the dollhouse but, never one to let a little bit of misfortune dull his day, Thelonious manages to sing the cat asleep and once more makes it home. Eventually, after several more near misses, Thelonious converts Fat Cat to the music and the story ends on a rather joyful note as both cat and mice end up cohabitating and dancing to Thelonious’ music.

It is a delightful book but with text that is quite difficult for a young child’s picture book. Consequently I can’t help but recommend this book for older readers who may struggle with a complex vocabulary but who may have the abilities to figure it out. Music teachers will delight in this opportunity to address the rhythms and rhymes of music, language arts instructors will enjoy the nonstop application of action verbs, rhyming words, and sequential actions, and students will have a small taste of ‘scat’, a light mimicking of the style of the likes of Ella Fitzgerald and Sarah Vaughan.

The Trouble with Chickens by Doreen Cronin

2011-07-07T10:15:00.000-05:00

Cronin, Doreen. 2011. The Trouble with Chickens: A J.J. Tully Mystery. Illus by Kevin Cornell. ISBN: 9780061215322

Grades (2?) 3 – 5

For young readers that enjoy a good mystery, this book will certainly please! J.J. Tully is a retired Search and Rescue dog that is just trying to relax in his retirement when a chicken comes to him for help in finding one, no wait, two, of her chicks. With her promise of pay (a cheeseburger) Tully begins to collect clues and before he knows it, and of the chickens are missing and he is in need of rescuing!

Cronin’s dry wit is clearly shown in Tully’s thoughts, words, and deeds as well as her descriptions and even the name of the arch-enemy, Vince the Funnel. The book reads like an adult mystery in its presentation of deadpan first person commentary from Tully and yet Cronin gives her young audience their due by crafting a mystery that is child friendly in the story line. Short, concise sentences remind one of late night Humphrey Bogart movies while word play, puns and similes run rampant throughout this small chapter book. How easily this book will become a teacher’s best friend in teaching these concepts as well as visualization techniques.

…this chick had already learned that life outside the shell is not all it was cracked up to be. (pg. 12

The rug carried me like a sled. (pg. 71)

He had a long, skinny build, beady eyes, and a giant white funnel around his neck.

He looked like a cross between a dachshund and a lamp. Vince the funnel. (pg. 37)

I could go on but since this book is just crammed with these literary devices, I hesitate to recommend it to children below third grade except for gifted readers.Then again, children learn through reading and this is a great story for a young reader to discover the wonderful play of words and how it enriches the reading experience.

A great little story that should be considered for a collection, either in a library or classroom, as it is a tongue-in-check mystery that is greatly different than Cam Jansen, A to Z Mysteries, and Nate the Great.

Enclave by Ann Aguirre

2011-06-28T10:06:00.000-05:00

Aguirre, Ann. 2011. Enclave. Macmillan. ISBN: 9780312650087

Grades 9 – 12

The Elders always did what was best for the group, right? No one questions them, knowing that the Enclave’s residents very existence is owed to the Elder’s management. But why do they not tolerate differences? Why do they ignore the warning signs of danger from the Freaks, who are becoming more organized? The Freaks could bring about the death of everyone and Deuce has first hand experience of their ferocity and budding intelligence.

The Enclave has carved out a generational existence in the tunnels, surviving by living in groups: breeders, hunters, builders, leaders. With a life span of about 25 years, it is the only life Deuce knows. She wants nothing more than to be a hunter for the Enclave, scouring the tunnels for food while eluding, or killing, the Freaks that seek out human flesh. Yet when she finds that the Freaks are becoming smarter and more organized, her warnings fall on deaf ears. She begins to question everything that she has known and ultimately is exiled with Fade, her partner. With Fade at her side, they emerge from the tunnels and Deuce is faced with seeing the sun for the first time, the feel rain on her face, and the cold touch of snow. Yet Topside has its own dangers of gangs and Freaks that Deuce and Fade must combat as they head north where there is hope for a safe existence. But is it possible? Will they ever truly be safe?

This Dystopian novel is strongly crafted, guaranteed to capture the reader with the story of a strong girl who survives through her wits and strengths. While there is a building of romantic tension between Deuce and Fade, this novel is doesn’t rely on sex or profanity to attract a reader. Rather, the superb writing and fascinating story line will hook both girls and boys as they eagerly hope for a second book.This is a good contender for one of the best books published in 2011.

The Gathering by Kelley Armstrong

2011-06-28T10:01:00.000-05:00

Armstrong, Kelley. 2011. The Gathering. ISBN: 9780061797026

Grades9 – 12

Could Maya be a genetic experiment that seeks to bring forth a recessive gene for skinwalking? According to gorgeous Rafeal, she is. At first Maya is dubious about this ...news until she begins realize that her talents for healing wild animals is more than average. Skinwalking is the ability to change into animal form and supposedly Maya is beginning to come into her abilities. Adopted as a baby, Maya is fully aware of her Native American heritage and sports a birthmark of a cat’s paw on her hip. It is this birthmark that indicates her future as a Skinwalker and ties her to Rafael and his sister Annie.
In a novel fraught with murder, intrigue, and teen relationships, the story is slow to evolve with plenty of opportunities to accurately predict what is coming due to concepts used in other novels. Set in a small company town on Vancover Island with a population of less than 200, Maya is a feisty yet level headed character that seems to live an idyllic life. The town, land, park, and even some of the people are owned by the St. Cloud Corporation who supposedly deals with secretive medical research. Uh huh. This reviewer has run into this concept several times before. The fairly competent reader will quickly see the writing on the wall in this story but will have to wait for the next book in this series to see the accuracy of their predictions.
While I am attracted to the setting in this novel, the rest is fairly shallow, which is unusual for this best selling author who is responsible for the New York Times bestselling Darkest Power trilogy. Some young adults will enjoy this novel but it does lack depth and complexity.

Worst. Vampire. Ever. by Caissie St. Onge

2011-06-23T22:59:00.000-05:00

St. Onge, Caissie. 2011. Worst. Vampire. Ever. Random House. 9780375868917

Grades: 6 – 9

Life isn’t easy for Jane Jones. Unlike the vampires in so many of today’s novels she is a gangly, nerdy fifteen year old vampire who lacks supernatural good looks, does not have supernatural strength or abilities, and is blood intolerant. Yep, that’s right; Jane is allergic to all types of blood except for one rare type, and what kind of vampire has an allergy to blood? To top it off, she isn’t pretty, lacks social skills, and has never had a boyfriend.

Jane, whose real name is Josephine, is ninety years old and was only fifteen years old during the dust bowl era of United States. Once she and her family had been turned (unwillingly), they began to move every four years from one town to another. At this latest school Jane experiences the same trials and tribulations as any geeky high school girl yet for the first time there are two boys who are taken with her; one a living boy and the other a vampire. To top it off, there is the mysterious teacher who seems to want something, an assistant principal who thinks Jane has an eating disorder (ha!), and a jealous vampire girl who wants Jane out of the picture.

In the midst of the deluge of vampire books, this one is a refreshing change guaranteed to make you smile throughout. It defies the established created norms found in so many of the vampire novels today and the humorous voice of the main character is an easy one to like. While this isn’t a stellar novel worthy of Newbery consideration it is a delightful tongue-in-cheek relaxing read that is a girl pleaser. It is certainly one that should be considered for a collection and would make for a delightful comparison with one of the more established vampire novels.

The Chaos by Rachel Ward

2011-06-22T16:09:00.001-05:00

Ward, Rachel. 2011. The Chaos. Scholastics, Inc. ISBN: 9780545242691

Grades: 9 – 12

For those who loved Ward’s first book, Num8ers, book two will not disappoint! Rather, readers will find this book to be better crafted, more character driven and stronger development, and definitely more action packed.

Jem’s son, Adam, is now fifteen and exhibits not only his mother’s talent to see someone’s date of death but also to feel and see how that person dies. Adam also exemplifies his father’s energy and spontaneous reactions to anything that bothers him. When Adam notices that hundreds of people are slated to die on the same day, 01012027, he begins to panic and finally comes to terms with the fact that he has to let people know that a catastrophe is going to happen. At the same time Adam meets Sarah who has seen Adam in her nightmares, nightmares of a catastrophic event that plague her every night since becoming pregnant with her father’s child. Adam is drawn to Sarah, loves Sarah, and does everything possible to save her and her child. Both stories come together in a dramatic climax that pulls together dreams, dates, death, and love. The reader will not be disappointed in the least as the story ends with a clean tie up except for one small question; What gifts does Mia, Sarah’s young baby, have that could change the dates of one’s death? Ward leaves the reader grasping for her next book in the series, Infinity.

Set in England and told in alternating voices, Ward moves the action forward, with each voice pulling the reader into that character’s innermost thoughts and actions as it moves on to the next series of events. Ward deftly weaves in drugs, bullying, family drama, love, and incest into the overall story, not letting these items be the focus of the story.Aside from strong language, this is an excellent book well worth including in a library’s collection or recommending to young adults with a love of underdogs and a slightly dystopian future.
A word of caution, profanity is used frequently throughout the story.

Bloodline Rising by Katy Moran

2011-06-07T22:23:00.001-05:00

What if you could control what people said or if you could will people not to see you? For thirteen year old Cai, these talents set him apart and with the death of his sister and the absence of his larger than life father, Cai turns to the streets of Constantinople. On the streets he is known as the ghost, one who has a talent to not be seen. Finding no theft impossible, including spying on the Emperor, Cai unwittingly brings danger to his family. With his father return, suspicion is turned upon Cai’s family and before Cai can warn his family he is caught, sold into slavery and taken to the British Isles, the land of his parents. Yet questions abound for Cai. What connections do his parents have with the ruler of Great Britian and why did they leave? Why is Cai now held as a hostage in the most powerful family in the British Isles as they prepare for war? Cai continues to grow in his talents of hypnosis and ability to disappear from other’s notice but what does the future hold for him? Set in post Roman occupied British Isles, this riveting novel accurately depicts the life and hardships of a land that is coming into its own. It is a companion novel to Bloodline but this action packed story stands on its own as the voice of Cai carries the reader through action, danger, self-discovery, and rites of passage.

This book can be recommended without hesitation to either boys or girls who seek an action novel, set in a historical past that is also driven by the strength of the main character. The character is complex yet believable, exemplifying the inner doubts and exterior emotional actions of a young teenager who must survive in a hostile environment. Of particular note, this novel entertains without the need to rely on some of the more edgy topics, such as drugs, sex, and more.

Reading Level: Older Readers (Ages 11–13) Mature Readers (Ages 14 and up)

Department Nineteen by William Hill

2011-06-07T22:01:00.006-05:00

Imagine that your father has killed himself and you have no idea why. Worse your mother is kidnapped by a vampire and you find that the monster of Frankenstein is a family protector. Such are the events that have taken place in Jamie’s life within a short period of time and Jamie finds himself joining an elite secret military force that seeks out and destroys vampires. While Jamie’s fear of vampires gives him pause, he overcomes it in the quest to rescue his mother from the hands of Alexandru, a vampire elder whose violence is legendary. With the help of specialized weapons and Larissa, the young vampire girl held captive by Department Nineteen, they begin to scour the Isles to find Jaime’s mother. Yet something bigger is set into motion as rumors of the revival of Dracula are combined with the wide spread slaughter of humans by vampires. Department Nineteen is now faced with bigger challenges and Jamie finds himself caught in the midst. Will he be able to save his mother and foil Alexandru’s attempts to kill them both? Or will he be forced to help combat a bigger problem that threatens mankind? Yet in the back of his mind he can’t help but wonder about Larissa, her desire to help him, and more importantly, a kiss that they shared.

This fast action novel will appeal to boys who are looking for an edgy, military driven vampire story where a young man is the powerful main character. The character’s emotional distress and confusion is believable yet he rallies from each setback stronger and more mature in thoughts, words, and deeds becoming what all young men desire to be, a hero. Set in present day England, the story moves quickly between military operations and personal conflicts between Jamie and the other characters. As a character, he will appeal to boys who seek a modern day, realistic hero; a young man that overcomes great odds, is instinctively skilled in military operations, and is very attracted to a young, beautiful vampire.

Stolen by Lucy Christopher

2010-09-19T16:22:00.003-05:00

Stolen by Lucy Christopher
The Chicken House publishers
ISBN: 978-0545170932
Grades 9 - 12
Positive reviews from SLJ and Booklist

We often wonder how someone who has been kidnapped falls into the Stockholm syndrome but this insight, well written book, not only shows how but also creates the same torn feelings within the reader. This novel is written as one long letter to the kidnapper by Gemma, a sixteen year old girl who was abducted at the airport. Waking up in the desert outback of Australia, she is alone with a young 25 year old man who feels that he is saving her from the duplicity of modern life. With no where to go and without the skills to live in the desert, Gemma is bound to Ty in ways that slowly destroy her sense of independence. Yet Ty respects her, does not hurt her nor assaults her in any way, giving strength to his character. Despite the fear and isolation, Gemma grows in awareness, growing to love the desert in all its beauty as well as falling in love with the gentle side of Ty. When she is bitten by an ader, Ty does the ultimate sacrifice and takes her in for medical care, knowing full well that he will be arrested, removing him from the land he loves.

The novel is powerful in its insightful introspection as well as literary visualizations and analogies. It would be outstanding as a read aloud in a high school setting where discussions are needed about right/wrong, love/ hate, and individual perspectives. Written as part of Christopher's doctorial program, it is remarkable in that it is her debut novel. This is a superbly written book that I would not hesitate to purchase and recommend to both young men and women.

Crazy by Han Nolan

2010-07-25T15:06:00.003-05:00

Nolan, Han. 2010. Crazy. Harcourt Children's Books: New York.
ISBN: 9780152051099
Release date: September, 2010
Ages: 12 andup
Grades: 8 and up

Jason’s life is awful but he thinks he has managed to keep things a secret. His mother has died and his father has once again succumbed to mental illness. With no money, no food, and no family, it is up to Jason to care for his father. For support, he relies on a small group of imaginary friends for guidance and companionship, preferring these friends over real ones. Unfortunately he begins to have sudden impulses at school that get him sent to the school’s counselor. There he meets three other students who have problems of their own and he gradually opens up. Yet still he maintains a certain distance, protecting his father and their life. It isn’t until his father disappears that Jason calls on his friends for help and they see first hand his life of hunger and poverty. Feeling it necessary, his friends report what they find to the counselor who in turns, calls upon family services who hospitalize Jason’s father and place Jason in a foster home. While there Jason slowly comes to realize that he does not have to be responsible for everything and that he needs to focus on himself. More importantly, he realizes what true friends are and the imaginary friends slowly disappear.

This brief summary of the story in no way conveys the emotional turmoil and conflict that take place in this novel. There is a lot of materials in this book to illicit thoughtful contemplation by the reader: personal responsibility, reliance on others, role of child versus adult, caring for others, and more. The emotional isolation of Jason is strongly realistic and will definitely apply to today’s young adults who deal with peers on a daily basis, from pressure to harassment to support. Plus it is possible that many of today’s YAs will relate to Jason’s love of his father and the turmoil he faces as he worries about his own sanity while trying to care for his father.

The writing is fairly smooth and initially heavily interspersed with the dialogue of the imaginary friends. These dialogues are unique and appealing and provide other viewpoints of what is going on. Plus they also support the movement in the story as they slowly fade away as Jason becomes more settled both physically and mentally. This is an excellent novel and should be at the head of the list for collection acquisitions for the coming school year. It would also be an excellent resource for books clubs as there is much in this novel to illicit conversation and develop opinions.

Brain Jack by Brian Falker

2010-07-18T20:53:00.004-05:00

SPOILER ALERT~ This review contains details that could spoil the reading of this book.

Falker, Brian. 2010. Brain Jack. Random House. New York: New York.
ISBN: 9780375843662
Science Fiction
Grades 6 - 9

Through a series of major hacking events, Sam lands in jail, only to find that all of these incidents are actually tests to see if he qualifies to be on a special task force that prevents hacking attacks on international secure sites. He begins successfully but through the use of neuro-headsets, the world is becoming connected and in that connection there is a birth of an artificial intelligence, Ursula. Ursula is infantile in reactions when it comes to protecting itself. When Sam escapes from Ursual's control, she seeks to destroy Sam, as well as his friends Dodge and Vienna. Knowing that Sam is a threat to her existence, Ursula creates false memories in people of authority as they wear the headsets, memories that make them seek out Sam to arrest. More importantly, Dodge has created a virus that could nullify Ursula but first he must find a place to upload it that is free from Ursula’s influence – Cheyenne Mountain, Wyoming. Aided by Tyler, a special forces op leader, they are successful in reaching Wyoming but Ursula manages to negate the virus, leaving it up to Sam to enter into the mental fray with Ursula via a headset. Ultimately he meets her on her own grounds and begins healing the damage she has caused in the world.

The pacing of the book is outstanding! There is nonstop action once the story begins leaving little opportunities for the reader to stop and take a breath. All young adults secretly dream of being the best at something, at helping to overcome terribly odds and emerging as a hero. Sam, while a computer whiz, is also an average nerdy kid who helps young readers achieve vicariously the dream of being a hero.

The many parts all works together in eliciting questions from the reader through deft foreshadowing as well as maintaining threads of continuity from one event to the next- threads of rights, responsibilities, and more. Ultimately the reader will be left wondering if Sam had the right to do what he did in healing the international rifts and literally programming people to do what’s right through subconscious threats. This is an excellent book to begin discussions about individual rights and freedom of thought. This is a must have for any collection, one reason being that good Science Fiction can be hard to come by for this age group.

The Red Umbrella by Christina Diaz Gonzalez

2010-07-17T20:42:00.003-05:00

Gonzalez, Christina Diaz. 2010. The Red Umbrella. Alfred A. Knopf. New York: New York.
ISBN: 970375861901
Historical, realistic fiction
Grades 6 -12

Lucia and her little brother are sent out of Cuba to escape the rising Castro regime and the Cuban camps for reeducation. Once in Miami, they are briefly separated but come back together when sent to live with an elderly couple in Nebraska. During this time they learn English, the ways of a farm, and what the United States is really like. Lucia finds that there isn’t much difference between boys and girls in Cuba and their counterparts in the United States. Slowly she begins to make decisions for herself, changes her outlooks and opinions, and even begins wearing make up; things that would not be allowed by her more conservative parents. Feeling guilty, it isn’t until her parents escape Cuba and come to Nebraska that Lucia realizes it isn’t the outer trappings that are important, rather it is family and being together.

The emotional content in this novel is sure to capture the reader. The reader will read first hand what it is like to be forcibly separated from parents, let alone being sent to a strange country that you know nothing about! Quite heartbreaking at some points the novel does ends well and the smooth writing, excellent flow of events and superb editing carries the reader to the end of Lucia's wait. While verbal enrichment is minimal, the story works. Insights will come about more through the voyeuristic role of the reader in witnessing the events surrounding Lucia’s life: leaving all that she knows, the way politics can influence everyone’s life, struggling to fit within a new culture, language, as well as education. A must for any middle or high school collection, this novel provides a fantastic personal look at the Cuba uprising and its impact upon the population.

Adios, Nirvana by Conrad Wesselhoeft

2010-07-16T16:16:00.004-05:00

Wesselhoeft, Conrad. 2010. Adios, Nirvana. Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Childrens.
ISBN: 9780547368955
Grades: 9 - 12
Realistic Fiction
Pub Date: October, 2010

Since the death of his twin brother, Jonathon is on a down hill spiral towards losing everything- friends, school, family and even his life. Unable to truly sleep he begins to act in self destructive ways that leads to an ultimatum at school: write the life story of a dying WWII vet and perform at the graduation ceremony or repeat his junior year. While this may sound like an odd either/or situation, Jonathon is a gifted poet and writer as well as musician. By spending time at at the Hospice where David, the vet resides, Jonathon begins to come alive through his music which he shares with others. Music plays a big part through out the novel and when combined with the beauty of poetry, the book reads like magic! He continues to ingest vast quantities of NoDoz and Red Bull, not sleeping, stressing over the upcoming production and more importantly, struggling to find the voice that is David's as well as his own. Yet foremost throughout the novel, he struggles to become the Jonathon who no longer lives behind his brother’s memory. Ultimately Jonathon succeeds in all venues but not without a lot of pain and struggles that YAs can definitely relate to.

Wesselhoeft's literary craft is superb with consistent bursts of beauty that spans poetry, analogies, metaphors and more. The many parts of this story are braided together and held by the character of Jonathon who reacts and behaves very true to YAs. The pacing is fantastic – even those not musically inclined will find appreciation in the musical passages as the author deftly places them in a story telling mode that advances the main character forward to some form of self discovery.
The reader comes away with understanding a variety of positions within this character’s life that helps to create the young adult that has evolved at the end of the story. Jonathon creates poetry but also sees life in poetic ways that gives the reader a new way of looking at life. Wesselhoeft has captured the internal essence of YAs without resorting to unnecessary sex, drugs, and violence. This is a superb book that is a must for high school collections if the caution below is not a problem.

Word of caution: The "F" word is used twice in this novel and there is the ingestion of frozen grapes that have been injected with vodka.

Boom by Mark Haddon

2010-07-15T14:49:00.004-05:00

Haddon, Mark. 2010 (U.S.) Boom. David Fickling Books. New York: New York.
ISBN: 9780385751872

Science Fiction
Grades 4 - 8

Haddon impressed the literary world with his first novel, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time that found its way into adult reading and listening. Boom, while lacking the more adult like fare of his previous book, is a rollicking great Science Fiction read that is sure to please the younger readers. Set in England and Scotland, James (aka Jimbo) and his best friend Charlie find out that two of their teachers are actually aliens who are on a quest to take over the world. When Charlie suddenly disappears, Jimbo and his sister Becky begin the quest to rescue Charlie, setting off a chain of events that eventually culminates in the destruction of the alien's portal and with Jimbo and Charlie reunited.

The consistent humor, interesting story, and never ending events will keep the readers entertained as well as connecting with the main character as Jimbo relates the events through a first person narrative. It is an excellent acquisition for any library collection as good Science Fiction novels can be hard to come by for this age level. This reviewer looks forward to the audio book of this novel which hopefully will convey the humor and personality of Jimbo.

First published in 1992 under the title Gridzbi Spudevetch, it has been extensively rewritten and retitled.

Trickster's Girl by Hilari Bell

2010-07-15T14:20:00.004-05:00

Bell, Hilari. 2011. Trickster's Girl. Houghton Mifflin Books for Children (Imprint)New York: New York. 9780547196206.
(Publication date: January 2011)

Science Fiction / Fantasy / Mythological
Grades 6 - 12

In a slightly futuristic world, Kelsa deals with the death of her father and the guilt of being unable to help him during his last days. Despite the social world keeping nature at bay, Kelsa's father taught her a love for nature. While secretly burying her father's ashes at the base of a large tree, Raven makes himself known to Kelsa. After much persuasion, Raven finally convinces Kelsa to help the world by healing the ley lines that cross the world through water, trees, animals, and more. The story is nonstop action once Kelsa decides to help Raven as various factions of mythological beings seek to stop her and Raven. While Kelsa does not make it to all the ley line crossings, she makes a good start towards healing the damage caused by humans.

Raven is an interesting character, being the same Raven that is found in the mythological stories and beliefs of the Native Americans and First Nations People. The role he plays in this novel is unique and while taking the physical place of a teenage boy, Raven remains almost emotionally remote from Kelsa with the focus on healing the world. It is a refreshing read, not too heavy handed with preaching the ecological responsibilities that mankind has and it is without the stress of teen sex, drugs, and language. It appears to be accurate in regards to the mythological beings and the roles they play in the novel. Plus it is a unique concept for the base of a novel.

This novel is certainly a nice change and would be a nice addition to a middle or high school collection but it would not necessarily be a first choice for those with a tight budget.

A Conspiracy of Kings by Megan Whalen Turner

2010-06-27T12:24:00.003-05:00

Turner, Megan Whalen. 2010. A conspiracy of kings. HaperCollins Publishers.
ISBN: 9780061870934
Gr. 8 - 12

Whalen's first book in the series, The Thief, exploded upon a reader's senses, giving rise to a series that entertains and captivates. A conspiracy of kings continues this excellence with its superb story telling and mixing of characters who's actions continue to affect each other and their subjects.

Sophos comes into his own in this novel, from the meek, submissive disappointment of a son to ending up as a strategist, leader, and king that seeks to rescue his country from the manipulations of surrounding countries. From kidnapping to slavery to wanderer, Sophos is alone and anonymous until he meets up with the Magus and they manage to contact Gen, the Thief, who is now king of Attolia. Through court manipulations and deceitful ambassadors, Sophos comes into his own, taking back his rightful place as King and leader of Sounis through insightful and immediate action. Mixed in with this adult fare, the reader is given glimpses of Sophos as the young man he really is as he faces self-doubt and love. Yet, as with Whalen's earlier novels, this book does not disappoint with its ending where loose ends are neatly braided into a feel good rope that connects to the earlier stories.

The diplomacy and court mechanics may be a bit adult in fare yet the action and quest for love will pull in the younger reader. A fine companion novel for any library that has the initial books in this series and well deserving of the starred reviews from School Library Journal, Booklist, Horn Book, and Kirkus. However, this reviewer is still debating if this book merits a mention as one of the top 100 books published in 2010. This is due, in part, to the pages of philosophical ruminations and court mechanics that border on the edges of boredom with its adult sense of introspection; introspection that many YA readers may not have fully developed due to lack of experience. Regardless, it is a good book, one that is well worth reading.

Num8ers by Rachel Ward Fantasy

2010-06-14T08:12:00.003-05:00

Ward, Rachel. 2010. Num8ers. New York: Scholastic Inc. 9780545142991
Fantasy
Young Adults: Grades 8 - 12

Numbers. They identify us and finalize us at the end. When Em looks into someone’s eyes, she sees numbers, the date of that individual’s death. This ability has always been hers and she learns to deal with it. When her mother ODs when Em’s 6, Em is in and out of foster homes and on the fast track to no where…until she meets Spider. Em doesn’t allow anyone close but something about Spider draws her in. When the London Eye is bombed, Spider and Em come closer as they are wanted by authorities for questioning. Not trusting police or any other authority figure they take off on a cross country race from the police and against Spiders date with death, a destiny that can’t be escaped.

The English culture is minimal in the story yet enough is provided to flavor the story. Being English, violence and drugs is present but minimal to the story which is a refreshing change. YAs will connect with Em and her problems – the fear of love and loss, the separateness from others and the isolation that many YAs feel at this age. With writing that is sparse yet rich in the ability to evoke emotions, Ward does an excellent job of providing scenarios and situations that rise above the book as small oasis’ of humor, love, and individual growth.

An outstanding book, Num8ers should be in the forefront of a library's collection. With starred reviews from School Library Journal and Booklist, it is no wonder that this book is on the YALSA nomination list. It is refreshing that, as a reviewer, I could not put this book down! Hopefully your young readers will feel the same.
A word of caution, profanity is fairly heavy through out this story.

Justin Case: School, drool, and other daily disasters Fiction

2010-06-09T13:25:00.002-05:00

Vail, Rachel. 2010. Justin Case: School, drool, and other daily disasters. New York: Macmillian. ISBN: 9780312532901

Grades 3 - 5

Justin enters third grade, worrying all the way. Initially placed in the wrong room, Justin ends up in another class without his best friend (a girl) and spends most of his year worrying and working to get a superstar sticker that continually seems to elude him. Yet, by the end of the year Justin comes into his own, sort of, and makes a new friend and feels ready for fourth grade. 3rd and 4th graders may well enjoy this book, relating to Justin's problems and worries, which are very important to him and possibly the reader as well.

Written in a diary form with minimal illustrations, the story moves quickly from one day or week to the next. Some may find it refreshing and entertaining in its sparseness of text and while this light hearted book may lack the edge of Alvin Ho or the comic adventures found in the Wimpy Kid series, young readers will enjoy the antics of Justin who is sure that he will have a miserable year in third grade.

This sweet story is just that, sweet. It should be considered for a collection but may not find its way to the top of a list of must haves. In all honesty, I have purchased it for our school's library knowing many young readers and teachers who will delight in this story.

Voices of Dragons by Carrie Vaughn Fantasy

2010-05-16T12:44:00.002-05:00

Vaugh,Carrie. Voices of Dragons. 2010. HarperCollins: New York
ISBN: 9780061798948
Grades 8 - 12

On one side of the border life is normal as we know it today. School, the internet, cell phones, boyfriends, and peer relationships. On the other the land is wild and ruled by dragons who are greatly feared by humans. Kay enjoys rock climbing and after almost drowning in a mountain river she is saved by a young dragon who speaks to her. Quickly the two grow into a friendship despite Kay’s initial paralyzing fear of being killed. They learn from each other and realize that the human/dragon relationship was not always this way. Kay begins to fly with Artegal and their growing trust in each other will support them throughout the remainder of the story.. Reminiscent of today’s war and border tensions, things heat up and the humans set about the beginnings of a war that will leave death and destruction on both sides of the border. Kay and Artegal realize that they are the only two who just might have the key to stopping the war and ultimately Kay makes the virgin sacrifice, that does not involve death, which will hopefully bring about the end of the conflicts. The novel ends with Artegal and Kay flying towards an island that legends tell where human and dragon live together, arriving successfully at their destination.

What is unique about this novel is the sharp divide between a realistic novel and a fantasy novel. While some fantasy novels with realistic elements blend the two, the fantasy elements do not blend into the realistic setting of this novel. Rather, the divide is just as apparent as the river that divides the two cultures of human and dragon. This novel will have a wide appeal for all high school students, regardless of sex and may well be enjoyed by strong readers of the middle grades. The emotional content is quite suitable for today’s older readers, readers who often feel almost inconsequential to the events of today. This novel places power in this age group while also interspersing it with questions of responsibility and the struggles that a young teen will go through while attempting to make powerful decisions. As a character, Kay rings fairly true to the age but lacks some depth when she makes the decision to sacrifice her immediate future for the good of others. This is a novel that should be considered for fantasy selection and may make for an interesting novel for book studies.

Nature Girl by Jane Kelley Fiction

2010-05-16T11:22:00.001-05:00

Kelley, Jane. Nature Girl. 2010. Random House: New York. 9780375856341
Grades 4 - 7
Realistic Fiction

Told in the first person, the plot moves quickly from Megan stuck in the ME stage to her final realization that there is more than just her in the world. Megan is forced to spend the summer in the isolation of the Vermont woods with her artsy parents and older sister. With no cable TV, no cell phone, and no connection with her friend Lucy, Megan begins to pout and sabotage the whole experience. Yet, when Megan is forced to accompany her sister and sister’s boyfriend for a hike sibling fighting reigns supreme and Megan runs off, quickly becomes lost with her dog, Arp, in the mountains along the Appalachian trail. After her initial panic, she decides to hike the trail to Massachusetts to see her friend Lucy. While a seemingly short 30 miles, the days and nights on the trail are opportunities for Megan to see herself for the way she has been and to decide how she wants to be in the future.

While seemingly an unusual plot, the character of Megan rings true to life and lends strength to this story that is not only realistic but hopeful for all children of this age. With reminders of My Side of the Mountain, this hilarious journey of an eleven year old city girl and her dog on the Appalachian trail will have the reader laughing and cheering for Megan who makes, not only a physical journey, but an emotional one as well.

ORTEGA by Maureen Fergus Science Fiction

2010-03-28T11:54:00.003-06:00

Fergus, Maureen. Ortega. 2010. Kids Can Press: New York, ISBN: 9781554534746
Grades 4 – 8

The story opens up with Ortega getting ready for his first day of school ever. The reader is immediately thrust into the worries and thoughts of a normal 11 year old boy facing new students, new school, and a new situation. Yet this was not an ordinary 11 year old nervous about his first day of school for Ortega is not considered normal. Ortega is a young low land gorilla.

Ortega is part of a scientific study, having been given the ability to speak and with the intellectual capability to understand. He has experienced life as would be experienced by a child, complete with a grandmother and mother figure. Yet his formative years were also spent as a scientific object of tests, observations, and being ‘put on show.’ Ortega is completely believable as an 11 year old boy and yet the author masterfully blends in the behavior tendencies of the species with the normal behaviors of an eleven year old boy. Through obstinate behavior, practical jokes, and normal 11 year old antics, Ortega puts himself and the project in jeopardy. Things come to a head when there is talk of getting rid of him, by selling him. Yet his new found friends at school have a plan that ultimately saves the day.

The reader is left with some insights into another life form, a life form that, while is not a reality just yet, is a possibility at some time in the future. Plus there is the unique look at the thoughts, feelings, and interactions of 11 year olds that we, as adults, don’t normally see, with just enough exterior problems for the other characters that not only support the main story but bring life to the characters. More importantly, the young reader is left with thoughts and questions about rights and responsibilities that we as a species have.

This is a well written, thoroughly enjoyable book that brings with it a chance for deeper introspection from the reader, Very supportive to the young reader and definitely strengthens the ‘right to life’ theme that permeates quietly through the story without being overbearing or preachy. While a bit juvenile for most 8th graders, the concepts, questions, and thoughts brought about by this book would make it worth their while to read.

The half life of planets YA Fiction

2010-03-17T13:42:00.001-06:00

Franklin, Emily & Brendan Halpin. 2010. The half-life of planets. Hyperion Books, NY. ISBN: 9781423121112

Gr. 8-12

This is an excellent book that most young adults will enjoy due to its introspection and realistic depictions of life's interactions for this age level. Hank has Aspergers while Liana escapes into the physical aspects of kissing and the exactness of astronomy. Yet somehow, these two meet and find connections, coming together at a time when Liana needs something or someone to help free her from her misconceptions of her self. Receiving a one word note, SLUT, Liana's world crashes around her. She begins questioning herself, her actions (which had never extended past kissing)and begins a downward spiral towards self-depreciation. Yet, due to his limited abilities to read another's body language, Hank clearly and honestly responds to Liana and her problems in a way that helps to bridge Liana's thoughts together and properly places problems where they belong.

Told in alternating chapters, the story shows both sides of situations in both Liana's and Hank's interactions, leaving the reader wondering just what is a disability? Could we have family and personal issues that hamper us just a surely as Aspergers does for others? Are we really that much different? Liana's escape and fascination into kissing is not really the much different than Hank's obsession with music and the guitar. Not being that familiar with Aspergers, I can't help but wonder if Hank has a mild case...but then again, any level of this affliction is not to be taken lightly.

I found this a truly enjoyable read and actually could not put it down! In one chapter, I'm totally engrossed in Liana and her feelings. The next, I'm right there with Hank. This book will appeal to both boys and girls.

An excellent companion novel would be Anything but typical.

To come and go like magic Fiction

2010-03-11T19:18:00.000-06:00

To come and go like magic by Katie Pickard Fawcett. 2010. Alfred A Knopf
ISBN: 978-0375858468
Grades 5 – 8

Chili Sue Mahoney is born and bred in the hill country of Kentucky and while Chili dreams of seeing the world, her mother wisely points out that Mercy Hill is Chili’s true home of the heart and that no matter how far she may go, her home will be with her. Too young to really understand, Chili confides in her best friend Willie of her longing to leave and both young people explore the world through covert visits to a disgraced Miss Matlock who has traveled the world. It isn’t until the end of the book that Chili finds her true path through life in Mercy Hill, a path that remains unseen but certainly felt with hope.

The author has created a gentle book that moves like a slow river on a hot day yet shot through this gentleness are those peculiarities of small town life: gossip, abandonment, lost dreams, and certainly the poverty and ignorance of life in the back woods during the 1970s. Told in vignettes that remain true to the sequence of time, a reader has a chance to see another way of life, an extended family that takes in all members, and most certainly one unique and well realized character. A truly beautiful book that brings to life a world that lies not to far in the past.

Soldier's secret: The story of Deborah Sampson

2009-10-06T16:27:00.001-05:00

Klass, Sheila Solomon. 2009. Soldier’s Secret: The Story of Deborah Sampson, N.Y.: Henry Holt & Company.
ISBN: 9780805082005

Grades 8 - 12

A fascinating and well-done first person account of the events and decisions that took place that lead to Deborah Sampson taking on the guise of a soldier in the Continental Army.
Deborah wanted more out of life than what was allowed to women during her time. She wanted to read, to write, to discuss politics and to be free to do as she wished. Finding no way out of her prescribed life that she abhorred, she ultimately ran away from a confining life and arranged marriage - straight into serving in the Continental army.
What transpires in this short yet dense little novel is the life of a young girl who became a young woman while helping to bring about the freedom that the fledging country craved. Having escaped an arranged marriage to a ‘dullard,’ Deborah falls hopelessly in love with a fellow soldier and is forced to acknowledge that she will never be able to have the life with him that she desires. With sharp and compelling introspection, Klass weaves a story that leaves a deep impression upon the reader, an impression that should one have met Deborah Sampson, they would have known her intimately and in great detail.

Deceit, overwhelmingly successful

Author’s note with historical data, chronological information

Klass has been writing young adult books for five decades

Here Comes Gosling Fiction

2009-09-20T21:19:00.002-05:00

Asher, Sandy. 2009. Here Comes Gosling. NY: Philomel Books. ISBN: 9780399250859.
Grades K - 3

Young children will be able to relate to Froggie as he waits with anticipation for the new baby to come and visit, anticipation that is clearly shown in Froggie's actions, appearance, and child-like questions. "Is it One O'Clock yet?" is Froggie's continual query of Rabbit as they prepare for the baby's visit and before long the baby has arrived! Yet Froggie is immediately scared by the new gosling baby's loud honk to the point that he hides, clutching his frog doll. Yet soon all comes to right as they become best friends and enjoy the picnic that has been prepared.

Young children will delight in the complexity of the art work that is colorful and vibrant as proven by field testing it with first graders. They not only enjoyed the images, they found the story easy to understand and delighted in the repeated text of the Froggie and his song. This is definitely a book that should be considered a primary purchase as it will make for an entertaining story time and a fascinating sit-down book to share one on one.

Muchacho Fiction

2009-09-20T21:04:00.002-05:00

Johnson, Louanne. 2009. Muchacho. NY: Alfred A. Knopf. ISBN: 9780375861178.
Grades 8 - 12

Johnson is well known for her book, Dangerous Minds so this reviewer was rather excited to see that she has created a new work that is supposedly "gripping, thought-provoking, and inspiring." Yet imagine the disappointment that arose when it quickly becomes apparent that this work is nothing more than a forum for personal opinion.

Eddie Corazon has the potential to be a great character, one that can live in the reader's mind long after completion of the novel. Yet Johnson uses Eddie as nothing more than an outlet for her personal and political opinions. Long, rambling thoughts run through Eddie's mind that can take up pages of text, thoughts that just don't ring true for a young man in high school. Johnson focuses on the negative, rarely the positive, in the situations that arise and basically creates a somber and depressing arena of an adult's perspective on life.

While there are realistic depictions of racial discrimination, the novel falls far short of a coherent story line with little discernible plot.

Mudshark Fiction

2009-09-20T20:47:00.002-05:00

Paulsen, Gary. 2009. Mudshark. NY: Wendy Lamb Books. ISBN: 9780385746854
Grades 2 - 5

There is no question that the target audience of this short little book are boys. Yet this particular book falls far short of the magic that one normally finds in Paulsen's books. Mudshark is a cool and a fast thinker, solving all problems that arise in school. Yet Mudshark is challenged by a parrot who seems to out think him in solving the problems, or mysteries that come up for others. So, as one mystery after another arises and is solved, Mudshark is determined to figure out a way to neutralize the parrot while also solving the biggest mystery of all, the missing erasers.
The ongoing mystery is quite complex yet is just okay in its entertainment value. The character of Mudshark does not ring true, rather is far too egotistical and completely devoid of character growth and awareness. Plus, the author wove in far too many characters into the story, characters instrumental in the mystery. What was really disturbing was that the middle school setting did not ring true as if the author is trying too hard to write for a younger audience.

While there are those that will purchase this book due to the author's name, this book should not be a primary purchase, especially at a time when funding is tight.

The Cats of Roxville Station Fiction

2009-07-12T10:38:00.002-05:00

George, Jean Craighead. 2009. The Cats of Roxville Station. NY: Dutton Children's Books (Penguin Group)
9780525421405

Grades 3 - 6

The Cats of Roxville Station by Jean Craighead George is a short read that is packed with information and observations of the natural world as experienced through the life of a feral cat and a young boy. The mannerisms and hierarchy of the feral cats' world is aptly portrayed as is the myriad of lifeforms that exist in a small area just outside of a small town, such as the racoons, foxes, cicadas, and more. Yet the initial anticipation of a good read was quickly squelched by the dry and almost scientific approach to the story.

Far too often, during the course of the story, the author sidetracks into the scientific lives of other life forms, thus giving this feral cat an almost philosophical approach to life around her. This proved a great distraction to this reviewer and while the information was accurate, it did not work seamlessly with the story. Rather, they stand out as misplaced information that might be better served if placed at the end of the novel as additional information for readers. Aside from the young boy, humans play a muted secondary role to the story, which is as it should be for a book of this nature. While it does end with a sense of hope and purpose, the story lacked the depth and richness that one might expect from this author.

This book will appeal to those young readers who are lovers of animals and nature but it will not have the staying powers of this author's previous novels.

The Chosen One (audio book)

2009-07-12T10:09:00.007-05:00

Williams, Carol Lynch. 2009. The Chosen One. Macmillan Young Listeners Audiobook. Read by Jenna Lamia.
9781427207067

Grades 6 - 12

While many may be familiar with the original publication of this book by St. Martin's Griffin, the audiobook of The Chosen One is a powerhouse that will captivate even the most reluctant reader/listener. The melodic reading by Jenna Lamia completely captures the young thirteen-year old Kyra's angst, love, and ultimate heart ache in this compelling story of her place in a poligamist sect. Plus, the lack of background music and sound effects clarifies the depth of Kyra's emotions that are so clearly conveyed one is pulled in and held from one chapter to the next, walking with Kyra through her life and the violence that ensues.

Kyra is one of 20 children in her family of one father and three mothers. Through Kyra we feel the commitment that there is in her family, the caring and love of her father and mothers and, more importantly, the sheer joy and deep love that Kyra feels for her younger siblings. Yet we are also witness to her deep adolescent pain and betrayal when she finds that she must marry her older uncle and give up her love for Joshua, a young boy whom she had hoped to marry. Surprisingly, Kyra is not ignorant of the world at large, due totally to the secret visits that she makes to the county bookmobile several miles from the compound. As her understanding of the world enlarges, so too does her understanding that her life, and the lives and deaths of others is not right so she makes the ultimate choice to escape despite the fact that it could mean her death.

The quality and clarity of this audiobook should make it a contender for the Odyssey award, or at the least be considered for this honor. The narration by Jenna Lamia is a rarity given her ability to perfectly capture the sweet yet conflicting adolescence of a thirteen year old girl who is moving quickly into the adult world of reality. This audiobook has become one of the few favorites of this reviewer and will live long in memory.

1 2 3 I Can Collage! Nonfiction

2009-06-21T09:44:00.004-05:00

Luxbacher, Irene. 2009. 1 2 3 I Can Collage! Tonawanda, NY: Kids Can Press.
9781554533138

The sixth book in the Starting Art series by Luxbacher, 1 2 3 I Can Collage! is a colorful, simply written book that invites children to experience this medium of art. With vivid colors and detailed instructions, children can create a variety of collages with minimal adult supervision. After the initial introduction as to what a collage is, Luxbacher introduces the materials children will need in a clearly laid out two page spread. From there, activities are laid out in a fashion that is reminiscent of the I Can Draw series that is often a staple in children's libraries.

The directions are simplistic in nature and maintain a vocabulary that will not repulse the struggling reader. With each numerated direction, an example is shown, thus visually answering any questions the young artist may have in what is meant. Lastly, a finished product is shown with final instructions and a caption that reinforces an artist term that has been used. Black text in varying sizes and colorful illustrations are overlaid onto a white background, making it pleasing to the eye yet also emphasizing the step by step layout of the various activities. Of particular interest is the fact that actual photographs are used while small pencil drawn children can be found on each page, doing what is being described.

This series should be considered by any librarian who wishes to update their collection of art activity books with those that address the artistic desires of the younger child.

Other books in the series:
1 2 3 I Can Paint
1 2 3 I Can Draw
1 2 3 I can Build
1 2 3 I Can Make Prints
1 2 3 I Can Sculpt

Connections
This book would be a wonderful support for a unit of study using the art work of Eric Carle or Steve Jenkins.

The Fantastic Undersea Life of Jacques Cousteau - Biography

2009-06-20T11:21:00.004-05:00

Yaccarino, Dan. 2009. The Fantastic Undersea Life of Jacques Cousteau. N.Y.: Alfred A. Knopf. 9780375855733.

Grades 3 - 5

The recent attention towards Jacques Cousteau in the publishing world is certainly one that is welcome due to the impact that he has had and continues to have in the quest to protect the natural world. However, having grown up watching the various films of Jacques Cousteau, I was quite disappointed in this book.

The book presents a concise overview of Cousteau's life beginning as a child, showing how his interest in the ocean and its life forms became a driving force towards his work as an adult. Yaccarino does not get lost in mundane details but clearly focuses upon pivotal events and inventions that make up Cousteau's life, events that lead towards Cousteau's love of the ocean and inventions that have enabled one to explore its depths and life forms. Yaccarino also peppers the text with quotes from Cousteau that support what is being said on any given page which are quite interesting. Sadly, the publishers let the ball drop on what could have been a spectacular book by using poor color choices, sometimes an almost illegible text due to size and color, as well as artwork that is far too busy. For example, the very first page is hard to read by having the black text overlaid on a drawing of sponges that are filled with circles and in some cases the quotes are so minuscule and pale that the reader could easily overlook them.

In this reviewer's opinion, this book would have been better served with artwork that represents the complexity of the subject, photos or more detailed artwork that allows the young reader to know what an aqua lung really looks like or a leafy sea dragon, let alone Cousteau himself. It is rare to see a nonfiction book without photo images and the artwork does detract from the content's authenticity. Rather, the artwork would be better served in a picture book as it is vibrant, busy, and rather pleasing to the eye.

Connections
The information provided in this book would lend itself well as a support to researching the life of Cousteau as well as the sequencing of a life and accomplishments.

One World, One Day Nonfiction

2009-06-20T11:05:00.002-05:00

Kerley, Barbara. 2009. One World, One Day. Washington D.C.: National Geographic. 9781426304606

Grades PreK - 3

With the quality and style that one comes to expect of publications from National Geographic, this book does not disappoint in the least. Using pictures of children and their lives from around the world, Kerley brings to the reader a unique look at how alike, and how different children and their lives are during the course of one day.

Sparse text, suitable for the primary classroom, flows smoothly from one image to the next as children wake up and begin their day. While no indication is given in the initial text as to locale or nationality, the images themselves are rich with differences yet also similarities that young children can relate to from their own life. For those who wish to know where, a detailed glossary of images is given in the back as well as a world map indicating location. Kerley never wavers in her purpose and tone in this small book, showing us how alike we all are despite cultural differences by focusing on those images that recount clearly the various signposts of a child's day such as breakfast, school, playing, and bedtime.

Receiving a positive review in the June issue of School Library Journal, this book is certainly one that should be given serious consideration in future acquisitions.

Connections
This book is an excellent visual reference to comparing and contrasting a day in the life of a child to oneself. It also lends itself well to sequencing events, making predictions, and elaborating upon vocabulary development.

Insects Biggest! Littlest! Nonfiction

2009-06-20T08:27:00.004-05:00

Markle, Sandra. 2009. Insects Biggest! Littest! Honesdale, Pennsylvania. 9781590785126

Grades K - 5

Children love insects and the stranger the better. This slim volume of insect lore will not disappoint those who enjoy facts and supportive images of the usual, and unusual insects that populate our world.

A striking cover will grab the young reader's attention and the photographs by Dr. Simon Pollard captures the insects in fascinating detail. Each photo is supported with a caption that is offset from the book's main text, presenting the reader with questions or information that strives to connect with the reader's background knowledge of what he or she might already know about a particular insect. The book concludes with a world map showing locations of the insects discussed, a glossary and where more information may be found. The facts presented are interesting and accurate as the author seeks to write simplistically for the younger reader with short sentences. Surprisingly, paragraphs are not used. Rather, the sentences are set as if in a list nor are content specific words put into a context within the same sentence which would support the developing reader. Thus, the text seems stilted and comes across as flat and dry. Of note, the information seems confusing at times given the title of the book. It is not always clear as to what catagory an insect falls in, biggest or littlest, and thus leads one to question the author's orginal purpose in writing this book.

Despite this book's flaws, children will still grab this book off the shelf due to the high impact photos and mesmerizing cover. And who knows? They just might read it as well.

ConnectionsThe images in this book will support a unit on insects as it discusses body parts, life cycles, and location.

Jellaby - Kean Soo Graphic Novel

2008-08-07T08:28:00.001-05:00

Soo, Kean. 2008. Jellaby. New York: Hyperion Books for Children.

Grades 3 – 7

This delightful graphic novel is geared towards young girls and is a wonderful contrast to the ever-popular Bones series that boys enjoy. The heroine in this novel is a young girl who finds a rather unusual creature one night, a creature that looks like a large big-headed purple dinosaur or lizard that is not threatening in the least. Rather the creature is drawn with rounded lines, big blue child-like eyes, and has the aura of a young, gentle child. Portia, the young girl, befriends this simple creature who seems to be lost and thus her adventures begin.

There are many themes in Jellaby, one being the theme of bullying. At first Portia witnesses a situation where a young boy, Jason, is being harassed by older boys. After a moment of internal struggles with whether she should intercede or not, Portia elects to walk away. However, once Jellaby enters the storyline it ends up teaching her that one stands up for what is right and that one does not walk away from a bullying situation. Rather, something needs to be done and so Portia steps in and helps Jason. In doing so, Portia befriends Jason and between the two of them, they set off to try and return Jellaby to its parents.

The home situations of both Portia and Jason are realistic and will certainly mirror many lives of children their young age. Portia’s mother is a single parent working late into the night while Jason is always alone, parents neither home nor coming to the school when he and Portia are in trouble. These situations are hinted at with scenes of Jason sitting by himself eating noodles, or Portia’s mom who comes home from work so late at night that Portia has put herself to bed. The opportunities for inferences are rampant in this novel and certainly enable the reader to make connections with the text, a strong affirmation for the inclusion of graphic novels in a library or classroom setting.

The artwork in Jellaby is enjoyable and will give rise to grins and smiles as the children have rather small bodies in comparison to their heads. The bullies have not only a threatening appearance; they also have a more adult look to their heads and faces in contrast to the more child-like features of Portia and Jason. Short, stubby legs are the norm for all the characters except for the few adults in this story, giving a strong indication of the difference between the child’s world and the adults. Of note, the colors used range in mostly shades of purple, black and white with brief, small touches of red, yellow, or blue. This reader could not help but think of grape jelly when looking at the title and the colors of the novel but overall, this is a delightful novel, well constructed, yet ending with a “To be continued…” that will have your patrons begging for the next book in the series. This is certainly a novel that must be included in any library or classroom collection and will give rise to great discussions about bullying and being alone.

Robot Dreams - Sara Varon Graphic Novel

2008-07-31T06:50:00.000-05:00

Varon, Sara. 2007. Robot dreams. New York: First Second – Roaring Brook Press.

Grades 2 – 6

This unusual wordless graphic novel is a quiet, gentle book about friendship and loss, two subjects that anyone, at any age can relate to. The artwork is comprised of muted colors and soothing lines that move the reader gently from front cover to back. While it may seem simplistic in appearance and artwork it becomes apparent that this book is far more complex than what one would think. Because it is wordless, the reader must look closely at expressions, setting, and interactions to pull out the story, a story that has multiple layers of complexity.

The story is spread out over one year, a year where a friendship happens but is lost and the reader is left confused as to why. One character, the dog, walks away from his friend, the robot, leaving him abandoned on the beach after the robot rusts and cannot get up. He lies there all winter, having ‘robot dreams’ of his friend as well as meeting new friends, such as a bird that builds its nest in the robot’s arm. Sadly, one would hope that a friendship is not something that you walk away from but that you work hard to maintain and hold but that is not evident in this book. At a time when there is talk about character development and developing empathy for others in today’s youth, I am surprised that this story is not stronger at expressing the loyalty that use to be assumed in regards to friendships.

The book is enjoyable and since it is without words, students will feel comfortable reading it, not realizing that they must infer, predict, and draw conclusions using only the visual cues of the artwork and their personal background knowledge. One interesting item of note, whenever the characters have a question or needs to do something, they go to the library for a book and the cover of the book is the clue the reader can use to figure out what they are doing next. I think that is a very nice touch.

Bird Lake Moon - Kevin Henkes Audio

2008-07-27T15:17:00.002-05:00

Henkes, Kevin. 2008. Bird Lake Moon. Performed by Oliver Wyman. New York: HarperCollins

Grades 4 - 6

Bird Lake Moon by Kevin Henkes is a quiet novel whose transference to an audio format remains just as introspective and still as the novel. There is little or no high action that one might find in the Percy Jackson series or the silliness of Katie Kazoo yet this novel resonates with the emotional struggles of a boy who must come to terms with the divorce of his parents.

Mitch’s father has left his family for another woman. Consequently, Mitch finds himself and his mother living with his grandparents at Bird Lake Moon. Mitch is angry yet more importantly, Mitch’s inner confusion, pain, and sadness come through far more clearly. When the owners of the house next door come to stay at the lake, Mitch sees in them the family unit that he wishes he had and he does things that he normally would not do, such as letting the family’s dog loose. Yet these incidents bother Mitch deeply and he slowly seeks to make amends.

The family itself is not as perfect as Mitch may think as they are back at the lake for the first time since the drowning death of their eldest son. While the younger children do not remember the incident, their parents do and they struggle to come to terms with their loss of more than eight years ago. Ultimately the story ends with the family returning to their home and Mitch and his mother’s move into their own apartment. More importantly, the story ends with Mitch coming to terms with his life and taking responsibility for his action.

This unabridged audio recording is well performed by Oliver Wyman, although it takes some time to get used to his voice for the younger girl in the family. The chapters’ are clearly indicated as well as the end of each CD, making it an excellent selection for having a matching text for students to follow along. Perhaps one of the more confusing aspects of the recording is that it is very hard to tell when Mitch is thinking, versus when Mitch is talking. Wyman does not alter the pitch or timber of his voice to indicate this difference which would be helpful for the listener. Overall this is a nice book with an equally nice recording but if a child is looking for action or adventure, this would not be the book to recommend.

Houdini The Handcuff King - Jason Lutes Grahic Novel

2008-07-19T17:19:00.000-05:00

Lutes, Jason & Nick Bertozzi. 2007. Houdini: The Handcuff King. New York: Hypernion Books.

Grades 4-8

Houdini has long captured the imagination of the people and this graphic novel from the Center for Cartoon Studies provides a look at a small slice of his life that borders on fiction. Houdini is depicted as a man driven in a quest for fame and accolades, to be acknowledged the king of escape artists during his time. Yet, he is also shown as a loving husband and as a man who works hard for what he wants.

With a complex yet informative introduction by Glen David Gold, the novel begins with Houdini at home, learning the intricacies of a handcuff lock that he will have to escape from when he jumps into the river at Cambridge. The reader is privy to a possible behind-the-scenes scenario as to how Houdini might have manage at least one remarkable escape from his bonds through the aid of his wife yet it is just a possibility as many of Houdini’s secrets have never been solved. Houdini allows himself to be hand cuffed, his wife slips him the key through a kiss, and Houdini jumps into the river while the crowd waits anxiously for his escape. Escape he does and returns to his home where he begins to plan his next event.

The dress, hair styles, and setting accurately represent the historical time this story takes place as well as the gray tone colors of the images, much like a black and white television. The writing is comfortable and easy to read yet lacks some of the vibrant action found in many other graphic novels. Yet the book makes up for the lack of story excitement through a fantastic end piece of panel discussions that touch upon the setting, locks, history of Houdini’s wife, and other historical events at the time this story takes place. While the book may not grab your reluctant readers as other graphic novels might, with the proper book talk and use of the information it contains, it is a wonderful introduction for this historical time of our history.

Dragon's Keep - Janet Lee Carey Audio Book

2008-07-17T15:31:00.000-05:00

Carey, Janet Lee. 2008. Dragon’s Keep. Performed by Bianca Amato. New York: Recorded Book ISBN: 978-1-4281-8317-9

Grades 6 - 12

The audio of Dragon’s Keep by Janet Lee Carey is a beautiful recording that captures the listener wholeheartedly in a fantasy tale that is so well written that one is hard pressed to remember that it is a fantasy. Dragons, a beautiful girl, a handsome prince and all the other ingredients are there for a fantasy fairy tale but due to the masterly writing of Carey, they become living, breathing characters that could well exist in today’s world.

Based on a hint of the Pendragon heritage of Arthur, the story’s preface explains why the family of the main character, Rosalind, is still exiled on Wilde Island after more than 600 years. It is at that time that the listener is made aware of a prophecy from Merlin that follows the family through the centuries and reaching fruition with the birth of Rosalind. Rosalind is all that is beautiful and smart yet she is born with a deformity that would mean her death, a deformity whereby the fourth finger on her left hand is actually the small claw of a dragon.

Dragons play a large part in this story as they are the enemies of the people on Wilde Island. As a young teenage girl, Rosalind willingly exiles herself to the Dragon’s island in exchange for her people’s safety where she is slave and nursemaid to 4 baby dragons who tolerate her because of her claw. Throughout her enslavement, Rosalind remains strong yet comes to care and love the dragons, understanding the role that people have played in the dragons’ slow destruction.

Without elaborating on the plot, the listener will become engrossed in Rosalind and the movements of this story. As a character, she grows and develops throughout, becoming stronger through unbelievable strife. As with most fantasy fairy tales, there are the wicked, the seemingly impossible situations, and the fantastical yet Rosalind does fulfill Merlin’s prophesy by uniting a people, two sentient species, and most importantly accepting herself. It is through the masterly writing of Carey that this world comes alive, that the characters are so real, and that the events are so well realized. The lilting and beautiful voice of Bianca Amato aptly conveys the many characters, including the dangerous dragons, and while some may find her accent a bit difficult initially, the accent soon becomes a part of the background of this story. The recording is superb with well placed disc endings at the conclusion of chapters as well as notifying the listener when it is time to change discs. Sadly, this audio book would not be suitable for elementary but is more suitable for middle and high school listeners due to complexity of language.

100 Cupboards - N. D. Wilson Audio Book

2008-07-17T14:21:00.001-05:00

Wilson, N.D. 2007. 100 Cupboards. Read by Russell Horton. New York: Random House Listening Library ISBN: 978-0-7393-6278-5

Grades 4 – 6

A rather unique twist on a fantasy adventure, 100 Cupboards has the promise of a new series that will capture fantasy reader’s attention. The main character, Henry York, is very appealing in his ignorance of all things important for most twelve year olds and his quiet observations and curiosity about the mysterious cupboards that were hidden under the plaster in his bedroom, is balanced with a young child’s reticence in exploring the mysterious unknown.

The cupboards turn out to portals into other worlds but in opening a cupboard, Henry puts legal matters into play in another world of which he stands to be the accused. The subsequent action and adventures into these worlds is carefully balanced by the seemingly ordinary life that he has with his uncle, aunt, and cousins, a life that is shrouded in mystery as well when Henry learns that his parents are not really his parents.

As an audio book, the story is well-read by Russell Horton and it does not take the listener long to fall into the story. Yet, rather surprisingly, there is no indication or forewarning of when a disc ends which I found to be very disconcerting! Disc one came to an end and immediately cycled back to the beginning before my listening head realized it. I find this rather annoying and am surprised that Listening Library did that for this audio book. To make matter worse, the discs do not end at the end of a chapter but rather where ever it may be at the time the disc is full. (?) Due to these difficulties alone, I cannot recommend this audio book to English Language Learners. I can’t help but compare that lack of quality to the high quality I found with Recorded Books. One can only hope that Listening Library corrects these types of oversight and focus more on the ease of the listener than on the ease of production.

Amulet: Book One The Stonekeeper - Kazu Kibuishi Graphic Novel

2008-07-16T13:00:00.004-05:00

Kibuishi, Kazu. 2008. Amulet: Book One The Stonekeeper. New York: Scholastic.

Grades 4 - 7

It isn’t often that one finds a graphic novel geared towards young girls with this level of sophistication. Amulet is far more than what I expected in quality and intrigue with its mood-enhancing illustrations and its mystery-induced story line. Its quality of production is a welcomed relief from some graphic novels that seem almost pushed to publication before story and graphics were finalized. It is certainly a welcomed addition to any library’s collection of graphic novels, not just for its artistry but for it having a main character that is a girl.

After the death of Emily’s father in a tragic car accident, that is heart-wrenching and starts off the book, Emily, her mother and brother move to a family home to start a new life. On the very first night, the strangeness of the house intrudes upon their future dreams as something is still in the house, something that isn’t quite human. This something kidnaps Emily’s mother and without hesitation, Emily and her brother Navin, enter another world located beneath the house in the search of her. It is in the searching that they encounter other life forms and another world in which Emily is given an amulet, a talisman that provides her with a power unlike any other.

The story is fast paced with danger and intrigue that never stops. The mysterious mechanical creations of Emily’s grandfather become allies in her quest to find her mother and Emily shines as a heroine throughout. Not to leave the boys out of the picture, Navin also plays a strong role in the action yet he is constantly shadowed by the bravery and actions of Emily. Young readers will clamor for the next book in the series, which is not yet available.

Smiles to go - Jerry Spinelli - Audio

2008-07-16T11:18:00.003-05:00

Spinelli, Jerry. 2008. Smiles to go. New York: HarperAudio Books

Grades 5 - 8

Smiles to go by Jerry Spinelli, performed by Conor Donovan, is produced by HarperAudio books, 2008. The author has a well-established reputation as a childrens/young adult author. Stargirl, Eggs, and Love, Stargirl are some of his most recent works that have grabbed young readers so I was very surprised to find that I did not enjoy this audio book. In fact, I had to force myself to listen to just the first CD of four.

The story starts off relatively interesting but after the initial opening chapter, the story becomes slow and tends to meander through Will's days. There is little or nothing to catch the reluctant reader's attention, nothing exciting, nothing unusual, nothing of any note. It was all I could do to finish the first CD. For competent readers with a good background understanding of science, who live a relatively easy life, and who attend a middle school without the strife of gangs and drugs, this book might appeal to them. For those who do not, I rather doubt that they will listen past the second chapter. Certainly we need books that span all types of life styles and situations, books that don't dwell on the negative aspects of life. Yet those books must also have a certain level of credability and reality to them and more importantly, those books need to have that 'hook' that grabs the reader from the outset, the hook that reels them into the story and not letting them go until the very end. This book does not do that.

Initially I thought my negative reaction to this audiobook was due in part to having just listened to Stargirl. Yet, in looking at each story's structure and character/plot development, Stargirl has those characteristics that make it a page turner, or CD changer. It captures students almost immediately. Not so with this latest Spinelli work. The performance by Conor Donovan is excellent but the story does not live up to his skills.

This is not an audio book that I will purchase for my library's collection. I may consider purchasing the print edition in order to maintain the author's collection but money is getting tighter and tighter. Consequently, the works purchased need to have a lot of merit in order for me to consider buying them. So far, the only merit I have found is the author's name.

Skulduggery Pleasant - Derek Landy - Audio

2008-07-16T11:09:00.004-05:00

Landry, Derek. 2007. Skulduggery Pleasant. Performed by Rupert Degas. New York: HarperChildren's Audio.

Grades 5 - 12

Skulduggery Pleasant was recently chosen as an Odyssey Honor Award winner and is produced by Harper Children's Audio. After a few moments of listening, it is easy to see why. The unabridged narration of the text is superb with Rupert Degas doing a masterful job of conveying the various characters through consistent voice changes, accents, and inflections. Degas is a joy to listen to with a voice that narrates cleanly with a faint British accent that also plunges to gravelly depths as Skulduggery and soars as the tween-lilting girl Stephanie without sounding contrived.

Characters come alive in dialogue that is never slow nor cumbersome, certainly a testament to Landry's writing and Degas' skill as a reader. The listener is caught within a fantasy mystery of a detective that is actually a skeleton and his side kick, a young girl whose uncle left her his legacy. With the normal mix of not-so-normal bad guys battling not-so-normal good guys, this mystery is sure to have students and adults glued to their seats, wanting to hear more and should be considered for classroom listening. Filled with humor, sarcasm, and action, this story is a fantastic listen for ages 8 through 99, either alone or as a group.

Magyk - Angie Sage

2008-04-19T17:04:00.003-05:00

Sage, Angie.2005. Magyk. New York: Scholastic.

Grades 4 - 8

Magicians, witches, ghosts, and evil all exist within The City where Septimus Heap is born. It is a world of high fantasy where it is common place for wizards’ eyes to turn green once they reach their magical maturity, where a ship is really a sleeping dragon, and where evil continually lurks in the hopes of taking over the leadership role of The City. Yet, as with most fantasy stories there is a hero who has the power to save all, to put wrongs to right, and who is modest of his abilities.

Stolen at birth, Septimus gradually comes to know his true past and future powers within this first book of four, a story that brings the magical qualities of the Harry Potter series to the younger reader. Born as the seventh son of the seventh son, Septimus has unbelievable magical powers that come easily to him once he recognizes and accepts them yet, as a character, there are times that he lacks the depth that a reader may hope to find in order to connect and feel empathy for him. During some chapters, Septimus is alive and the readers are right there with him as he experiences pain and doubt. Other times, he is as insubstantial as the ghosts that guard the Wizard’s Tower, shallow and underdeveloped. While the plot is fast past and exciting, keeping the reader on his or her toes, the unevenness of characters creates a sense of impatience in the more experienced reader. While this series may have some flaws, its overall worth to the realm of high fantasy for younger readers is welcomed and enjoyed by many.

Elijah of Buxton - Christopher Paul Curtis

2008-04-05T17:09:00.003-06:00

Curtis, Christopher Paul. 2007. Elijah of Buxton. New York: Scholastic Press.

Grades 4 - 0

Slavery is an aspect of United States history that Curtis brings to life through his latest historic novel, Elijah of Buxton. Yet, rather than start this novel from the perspective of slavery, Curtis’ main character, Elijah, is born in the town of Buxton, located in Canada. He lives in a colony of runaway slaves and never truly knows or understands what slaves and freed slaves in the United States face until he decides to cross the border after a thief who has stolen money that was suppose to buy the freedom of his friend’s family who are still enslaved.

While this seems as an unusual selfless task for a young person to make, the character of Elijah makes the quest plausible. Unfortunately, it doesn’t take long for Elijah to confront the dangers and hazards of being a young African American in a culture where he is seen not as a person but rather a commodity that has monetary worth. Yet, through the masterful character development of Curtis, Elijah proves strong enough and courageous enough to overcome events, ultimately returning home to Buxton, much wiser in the ways of the world. Much like Curtis’ previous Newbery winner, Bud not Buddy, this novel resonates with a character that brings an immediacy and reality to the historic inequities that laced through this period of time. Interspersed with the historical seriousness of Elijah’s difficulties, Curtis weaves in humor and events that will bring a laugh from the reader, almost but not quite, lightening the events that are taking place. The authenticity of events and more importantly, the accuracy of dialogue and cultural slang bring home the times and language of this time.

A crooked kind of perfect - Linda Urban

2008-03-24T16:54:00.001-06:00

Urban, Linda. 2007. A crooked kind of perfect. New York: Harcourt, Inc.

This simple novel may lack the depth and raw awakenings of realization that other children’s realistic fiction may have, yet its strength lies in its simplicity, in the simple day to day activities and concerns that one young girl has. Zoe wants nothing more than to be a piano prodigy, to play in Carnegie Hall and wear a tiara. Yet, her father, who rarely leaves the house and hates crowds, buys her an organ, the Perfectone D-60.

Zoe is naturally disappointed yet she makes do with what she has and begins taking lessons. As she learns the theme songs from various television shows, her father continues to take mail-order education classes while her mother works. Before long a young boy begins to come home with Zoe to spend time with her father learning how to cook. In just a short time Zoe is playing at an organ competition for children and Wheeler, the young boy, and her are becoming stronger friends. The novel ends like a neatly wrapped up present with Zoe’s father getting a job, with Wheeler and her becoming closer, and ultimately with Zoe getting the piano of her dreams.

While this novel may not be on the same introspective level as Eggs by Spinelli, it is certainly a light hearted look at the average life that an average child may have in today’s world. Children will not find this book threatening nor heart wrenching but instead may well relax and enjoy a good story.

Eggs - Jerry Spinelli

2008-03-24T16:43:00.002-06:00

Spinelli, Jerry. 2007. Eggs. New York: Little, Brown and Company.

Everyone experiences a loss of some sort but children tend to respond in a variety of ways that they often try to hide from others. Spinelli has masterfully captured the fragility, much like eggs, and the pain that one child goes through from the loss of his mother. The author creates an unusual relationship between this boy and young girl who is also experiencing a loss although not through death. By bringing these two children together, Spinelli has created a plot that enables the reader to use each child as mirror in which to see the reality of the other.

Both children participate in rather odd behavior yet it is this oddness that allows one to understand the depth of pain that they are experiencing. The young boy appears to hate his grandmother who has taken over his care while the young girl denies her mother’s existence because it is not the type of mother that she believes she should have. She doesn’t understand the pain and fear of the young boy while he, in turn cannot understand why this young girl separates herself from her family. Yet it all comes together one morning when the young boy is forced to face the sunrise, the first one without his mother, and he turns to the young girl for support. While this novel seems odd in characters and events, it is its oddity that gives it a bitter-sweet resonance that will follow the reader for some time.

Eleven - Patricia Reilly Giff

2008-03-23T19:57:00.002-06:00

Giff, Patricia Reilly. 2008. Eleven. New York: Wendy Lamb Books.

A dark, mysterious cover, and a back cover blurb that suggests danger are two guarantees that this book will picked up. Yet, it becomes quickly apparent that the story itself does not have that dangerous thread as was initially foreshadowed by publishers marketing ploys. Rather, the story dwells upon a mystery of a young boy’s origins and more importantly on his learning disability that prevents Sam from reading. Finding a news article in the attic, a young boy and his friend, the new girl in his class, embark on a mission to find out why he is listed as missing and what is so menacing about the number eleven? During the search, Sam begins to accept the import that learning to read and write has upon his life and staying in contact with others. Giff deftly contrasts Sam’s talents of working with wood and his ability to visualize just about anything he wants to build to his inability to form or see letters. This continual contrasts runs thoughtout the novel and, while the mystery is soon solved, the character growth in this novel is unique as it is from the perspective of a young boy who avoids doing that which is so difficult yet, by the end of the story, begins to take on responsibility for his learning.

Millicent Min: Girl Genius - Lisa Yee

2008-03-23T16:32:00.003-06:00

Yee, Lisa. 2003. Millicent Min: Girl Genius. New York: Scholastic, Inc.

Grades 4 - 8

When a child has been identified as being a genius, it doesn’t mean that that particular child is smart in the world of personal relationships. Yee understands this and has captured this painful world through the first person narrative of a child who thinks and intellectualizes like an adult. The child is Min, a young girl who truly does not understand the ways of peer relationships nor recognizes the loneliness she has in her life. Min is the center of this novel, an authentic young voice that allows readers to see how life is for these special children. Through the author’s masterly use of foreshadowing, the reader understands the problems and misunderstandings that arise for Min, understands how she is being manipulated and made fun of through Yee’s accurate creation of events and conversations. The reader is given a true depiction of the many sides to the difficulties that many gifted children face, which most people are often unaware of, yet the author weaves these difficulties into the daily life of Min and her quest for friendship in a natural fashion that is not preachy nor condescending. Not surprisingly, the reader is quickly pulled into this very personal story of Min’s social education and ends up rooting for her to find the ability to be a true friend, to say she was sorry, and to just enjoy the fun that life can be without the constant analysis of each and every event and action. It is through the course of this eye-opening novel, the reader follows the difficult journey this young girl makes from being a girl genius and the isolation that accompanies it, to being a girl genius who understands what it means to be a friend.

Notes from a liar and her dog - Gennifer Choldenko

2008-03-23T16:03:00.002-06:00

Choldenko, Gennifer. 2001. Notes from a liar and her dog. New York: Scholastic, Inc.

Grades 4 - 8

Lies have way of insulating one from the consequences of what one says and does, but lies also have a way of creating miscommunication and problems for others. For Antonia, Ant for short, lies are what she uses to ignore the pain of being unable to communicate with her family as well as using lies to get what she needs. Yet it is these self-same lies that eventually allow her to see her mother’s struggles to cope with Ant who is so different than her two perfect sisters. With an authentic tween voice, Choldenko has masterfully created a character who has no compunctions about lying, but who deeply wishes that everyone will see through the lies and give her the affection and attention that she craves. The situations of jealousy and feeling alone amidst a family in which she does not believe love her, plus the total unconditional love that Ant has for her dog are believable and ring true of life’s situations that tweens and young adults can relate to. It is a heartfelt tale of a young girl who is moving from the lies and make believe of a young girl to the acceptance and awareness of who she really is and the way that life isn’t as easy as she would want.

So B. It - Sarah Weeks

2008-03-23T08:54:00.003-06:00

Weeks, Sarah. 2004. So B. It. New York: HarperCollins.

Grades 4 - 8

The slot machines in Reno, Nevada are no match for the continual luck of one young tween, Heidi who uses her winnings to support herself, her mentally disabled mother, and their caretaker neighbor, Bernadette. Yet, as with many young people at this age, Heidi begins to wonder about her past, her mother’s mysterious word soof that no one recognizes, and more importantly, Heidi’s place in the world. Seeking to find answers, Heidi begins a quest that takes her across the nation on her own but what she finds is not quite what she expects. Her quest is a physical representation of a mental journey of self-recognition that leads towards young adulthood and while that trip is fraught with disappointment and pain, it is the trip that creates the foundation upon which her adulthood will be built. A darkly moving novel, it presents an aspect of life that many are not aware of, that of a life of a child with a parent who is still a child in many ways, a life that is insular yet broad at the same time.

Clementine - Sara Pennypacker

2008-03-22T20:26:00.003-06:00

Pennypacker, Sara. 2006. Clementine. New York: Hyperion Books for Children.

Grades 3 - 5

With echoes of Pollyanna and Ramona laughing in the background, this feisty little girl named Clementine explodes into action from the first page as she vainly attempts to explain that it has not been a good week and then proceeds to tell the reader all about the trials and tribulations that have taken place. Before the reader knows it, he or she is captured by this little girl voice that exudes innocence, fun, and mischievousness as she relates her adventures of being misunderstood, her best friend Margaret, Margaret’s hair, permanent markers and more. Yet the true essence of this effervescent, constantly moving character would not shine as brightly if it weren’t for the illustrations of Marla Frazee who deftly captures the impish and fun-loving Clementine who always seems to take matters into her hands. Guaranteed to entertain elementary students this delightful look at the world through the perspective a young child will certainly find a place on bookshelves that will withstand the test of time.

Schoolyard Rhymes - ed. Judy Sierra

2008-03-08T15:44:00.002-06:00

Sierra, Judy, ed. 2005. Schoolyard Rhymes. New York: Alfred A. Knopf/

Grades 1 - 5

The sounds of ropes slapping the pavement, children clapping or jumping in rhythm, and the sounds of laughter amidst choruses of voices can be hear within the covers of this delightfully, colorful collection of schoolyard rhymes. Children will seek to memorize many of these rhythmic rhymes, such as “Old man Moses, sick in bed, / called for the doctor and the doctor said /” or “Burp! Pardon me for being so rude! / It wasn’t me, it was my food!” and certainly music teachers will embrace these opportunities for fun filled, toe-tapping lessons dealing with choruses, repetitive verse, rhythms, and more. The rhymes are further enhanced by the superb illustrations of Melissa Sweet whose bright colors, simplistic figures, and minimal backgrounds only serve to put the rhymes to the forefront. Chanting pickles, judges on their heads, sticks and ropes made of words are just a few of the unusual but delightful illustrations in this book. Furthermore, each rhyme is set on a page at various angles and with rather unusual placement that only serves to emphasize their uniqueness. Schoolyard rhymes is an excellent compilation for any library, classroom, or home situation and is sure to please readers who love rhythm and rhyme.

Please bury me in the library - J. Patrick Lewis

2008-03-08T14:08:00.001-06:00

Lewis, J. Patrick. 2005. Please bury me in the library. New York: Harcourt, Inc.

Grades 1 - 5

A cacophony of poetic meters and sounds are encased in this delightful volume of J. Patrick Lewis’ works that are sure to catch the ear and eyes of young readers everywhere. Illustrated by Kyle M. Stone, the images convey the visual warmth, mystery, and richness of the poems that are united by their subject matter, books. While the images are reminiscent of the thick, heavy coloring as found in the No David! Series, Stone manages to create and maintain a singularity to his work that will ensure that this will not be his only picture book. Opening with a delightful romp, “What if books had different names?” the poem presents a play on titles such as Alice in …underland? while Stone’s image shows a plate with two green eggs…being eaten by a lamb! While this opening poem sets the mood for lighthearted verbal fun, the remaining poems are rich with sarcasm, allusions, and play on words that will delight the more experienced reader. Nonetheless, children of all ages, including adults, will enjoy this collection of unusual yet enjoyable poems that give evidence to the many facets and riches found in books.

Tales Our Abuelitas Told - F. Isabel Campoy, Alma Flor Ada

2008-02-23T19:51:00.003-06:00

Campoy, F. Isabel and Alma Flor Ada. 2006. Tales our Abuelitas told. New York: Atheneum Books for Young Readers.

Grades 2 - 8

Twelve stories from varied roots of Hispanic culture come together in a colorful collection that includes talking ants, magic bagpipes, dancing goats, and flying horses. In some cases the tales emphasize a moral, such as looking for the good in any bad situation as in “Catlina the Fox.” In others, the story illustrates the importance of friends, as in the case of “The Bird of One Thousand Colors.” The authors seek to trace the origins of the stories through personal source notes, citing variants of the original story and the historical history behind the tales. Of note is a tale of Juan Bobo that is included in this collection. Juan Bobo has entertained children and adults for more than five centuries with his antics and absent-mindedness. While Juan Bobo is well known by many, “The Bird of One Thousand Colors” is a story that Alma Flor Ada was unable to trace to an original source, although she remembers being told the story by her grandmother. Throughout the collection, culturally accurate illustrations catch the eye with vivid colors and intricate details that convey aspect of the story. Each story leads naturally to the next, keeping alive the oral traditions of a rich culture that spans the continents.

It should be noted that this particular collection is now available in Spanish.

Hugo Cabret - Brian Selznick

2008-02-03T12:39:00.001-06:00

Selznick, Brian. 2007. The invention of Hugo Cabret. Scholastic Press, New York.

Grades 4 - 8

Combine mystery, suspense, life-struggles, and an orphan and an author could well create a book that captures and holds the reader long after completing the book. Brian Selznick has done just that with his latest book,a book that has made many take notice. Blending the elements of a picture book, the distinctive aspects of a graphic novel, as well as the substance of historical fiction, award winning illustrator Selznick has created a unique work that defies the standard descriptors for children’s literature. With the recent win of the Caldecott medal for the most distinguished American children’s book, Selzinck balances the tightly written story of a lonely, hungry orphan who struggles to survive with arresting illustrations that not only support the story but extend past the text to continue the story in a visual feast. Hugo struggles to survive while maintaining the life he had before his uncle disappeared and it isn’t until he befriends a young girl that certain aspects of the mystery behind the machine his dead father was working on began to fall into place. With a rush of action and page turning images, the reader is drawn to this young hero and his struggles and, while some find the ending to be rather pat, it is an ending of hope and an affirmation of Hugo’s struggles to become the new Hugo Cabret. The invention of Hugo Cabret has become a milestone for the landscape of children’s literature and certainly a testament to the quality work of Brian Selznick as author and illustrator.

Coming on Home Soon - Jacqueline Woodson

2008-02-03T09:29:00.001-06:00

Woodson, Jacqueline. 2004. Coming on home soon. Illustrated by E. B. Lewis. New York: G.P. Putnam’s Sons.

Pairing with award-winning illustrator E. B. Lewis yet again, Woodson’s Coming on home soon is a heartfelt story of a young girl whose mother who has left to find work during World War II. The story begins with the leaving and Woodson accurately depicts the inner turmoil of the young girl while maintaining her emotional maturity during this heart breaking event. The realistic plot is set in an economical period of time that saw the division of families and cultures and encompasses a span of time where the young girl waits through the seasons to hear from her mother, yet she isn’t waiting alone. Woodson creates a grandmother that is lovingly supportive but who also waits and worries, balancing the young girl’s emotions with an adult perspective. Dialogue is only in italics, as if being recounted by a third party, yet Woodson uses the dialogue to provide small windows into the hopes and doubts of the young girl and her grandmother. Interwoven in the story is a kitten that the young girl takes in and slowly, through the course of the story, Woodson uses the cat to show the care and love both characters have for each other. This Caldecott Honor book gives testament to the artistic pairing of Woodson and Lewis who have created yet another evocative book that seamlessly tells the story of loss and hope. Lewis’ artwork fills in the gaps of Woodson’s text by depicting the passing of time through images of the seasons, the growth of the kitten and the young girl. It is a graceful book that readers will find unforgettable for its gentleness and simplicity

Best best friends - Margaret Chodos-Irvine

2008-02-02T12:08:00.002-06:00

Chodos-Irvine, Margaret. 2006. Best best friends. Orlando, Florida: Harcourt, Inc.

With a plot that focuses on an event that most young children will recognize, Caldecott Honor winner Chodos-Irvine has written and illustrated a book about best friends as they struggle with jealousy when one receives more attention than the other. The style of language is precise in its depiction of events and language, almost sparse in description and complexity of language yet resonates with accuracy of feelings and hurt. With bright, intense paper cut-work illustrations, this book has a pacing well suited for young children as Chodos-Irvine captures the actions and dialogue accurately and with all the emotion that two young children can have when they are at odds with each other. The plot quickly evolves from a beginning of sharing and playing to the rising tension of conflict as jealousy pulls the friends apart. As with most friends, there is the subsequent acceptance and forgiveness that makes these two such good friends, bringing a peace and happiness to the young reader. Best, best friends is sure to make for great classroom dialogue in the younger grades as it deftly targets the intense feelings that young children can have.

Witches and fairies - Eva Montanari

2008-01-27T17:50:00.001-06:00

Montanari, Eva. 2007. Witches and fairies. Fleet Street, London: Meadowside Children’s Books.

Witches and fairies are two sure-fire ingredients to any story and when combined with the tale of Clotilda, who really wasn’t a witch but also was not a fairy, the story blossoms into a life of its own. As the story states, “witches play witch games” and “fairies play fairy games” and then there is Clotilda who does not have what it takes to be a fairy nor does she have the pointed hat to be a witch. Reminiscent of Rudolph the red nose reindeer, Clotilda is not allowed to play either the witch or the fairy games yet, when asked to judge who can build the highest pyramid into the sky, Clotilda climbs the pyramids to make her final judgment and in doing so, tickles the stars which cause them to fall. By the time everyone and everything has fallen to the ground, no one can discern who is a witch and who is a fairy and they find that they are happy in being the same.

The illustrations in this picture storybook are vibrant and effervescent with color and action. While the illustrations do not lend themselves well to telling the story on their own, they do support the action that is taking place with movement conveyed by curves and lines, color that first separates then joins as the two main character groups converge, with a style that borders on a child-like fantastical dream. The characters are child-like in size and action, at no time threatening or frightening. Clotilda is quickly understood as being one who watches, observes, and is introspective while dealing with being ostracized, a simple plot that many children will be able to relate to. So while witches and fairies may be thought of as two dissimilar groups of magical beings, in this story they are depicted as not being all that different after all.

Library lion - Michelle Knudsen

2008-01-25T19:53:00.001-06:00

Knudsen, Michelle. 2006. Library Lion. Candlewick Press, Cambridge, MA.

Could a lion in a library serve as the character and subject matter for a picture book? Certainly, but when combining the style and language of Michelle Knudsen and the quiet yet effusive illustrations of Kevin Hawkes, it becomes a masterpiece whose message stays with the reader long past the initial reading.

A lion enters the library and in doing so, enters the lives and every day patterns of patrons and library staff alike. After learning and accepting the rules, the lion takes part in story time and helps with everyday maintenance. The library maintains order with a structure that is juxtaposed against the fact that a lion is in its midst on a daily basis. When an accident takes place, the lion makes the choice to break a rule in order to bring things to right, but in doing so, it willingly accepts its punishment of being banned from the library. Yet, as with most rules, there are exceptions and circumstances that allow for rules to be bent and in the end the lion is welcomed back to the library.

While this may seem to be a simplistic yet lesson-teaching story, it is Hawkes’ artwork that brings an added dimension and depth to the story by creating the personality and gentleness of the lion. Retracted claws, a mood-indicative tail, and a gentle feline smile clearly convey the personality of this great beast. More importantly, the possible tension and danger that could be associated with a lion amongst children is negated by the soft, pastel tones of illustrations that hint at a more innocent time. Rather, tension is developed in the lion’s self-eviction and the mournful figure it makes as it sits out in the rain, looking in. This tension is then alleviated as everyone realizes that some rules need to be broken under circumstances that are out of the normal, such as a lion, being in the library.

American born Chinese - Gene Luen Yang

2007-08-03T23:46:00.001-05:00

Yang, Gene Luen. 2006. American Born Chinese. New York: First Second. ISBN: 1596431520

Like a Chinese queue, the three story lines in the graphic novel, American Born Chinese are carefully separate yet braided together through out the book, finally melding together at the very end.

Jin Wang has moved once again and finds that he is the only Chinese student at his school. He tolerates the stereotypical beliefs that he faces from teachers and students and must deal with the bullies who pick on him with regularity. Jin Wang is alone until Wei-Chen Sun comes to his school, and in his class. Eventually they become close friends until years later when their friendship is put to the test.

The Monkey King is a retelling of a Chinese fable. A monkey is the ruler over the other monkeys but one day he decides that he will rule over everything. He learns and practices the martial and mental arts to overcome any adversary and his arrogance takes over all common sense. Yet the Monkey King eventually gets his come-uppance only to be rescued by a truly pious monk whom sets the Monkey King onto the true path of self.

Danny is the all-American blond haired jock who each year must face the humiliation of having his cousin visit from China for several weeks, attending school and social functions with him. The experience is so bad that each year Danny has to transfer to another school in order to escape the humiliation of his cousin’s visit. Danny’s cousin is depicted as the stereo-typical Chinese and causes Danny great embarrassment until Danny finally retaliates.

All three characters and all three story lines come together in a masterful conclusion that brings with it hope for acceptance of oneself and other cultures that truly make up the population of the United States.

With bright, colorful and engaging comic art, Yeng’s graphic novel is entertaining and guaranteed to capture the reluctant and not so reluctant reader. Yeng’s masterful use of three consecutive storylines keeps the reader off guard, negating a sense of complacency in the reader. The storylines move effortlessly with well developed action, stopping each segment within the novel’s story line at a moment of decision or culminating action.

Due to the fact that it is a graphic novel, much of the realism that one would find in a contemporary novel is not available through an author’s description and use of extensive text. Rather, the realism comes in the dialogue and the superb artistic renditions of the action and characters. When Jin Wang has a crush on a young American girl, he attempts to curl his hair to impress her, trying to fit in and be like the others. However, it is through Yeng’s masterful artwork that the reader realizes how ridiculous it is to try and change who he is physically as well as emotionally.

American Born Chinese is an outstanding book that well deserved the Printz award. It will have a long shelf life in many Young Adult libraries and fulfills a need for truly accurate representations of other cultures.

Criss Cross - Lynne Rae Perkins

2007-08-03T21:01:00.001-05:00

Perkins, Lynne Rae. 2005. CRISS CROSS. New York: Greenwillow Books. ISBN: 978-0-06-009272-6.

Life is odd, seemingly to fold and crinkled into different realms of reality that exist all at the same time when you are fourteen years old. For Debbie, who is fourteen, she struggles with thoughts about atoms, the universe, and her feelings. She carefully practices the fine art of emotional concealment as she wonders about boys, her looks, and what her future will be. She is rather a quiet girl, listening more than speaking that belies the extent of questions, thoughts, and opinions that race through her young mind.

While Debbie ponders and experiences the mysteries of her life, her friends also experience a first crush, new hobbies and events, as well as finding new truths about themselves. Yet, while all teenagers tend to think they are alone in the world, in this particular case everyone’s lives criss cross each other, sometimes meeting, sometimes passing each other but all having the same basic cares, concerns, and joys that interlace in the portrait that is the life of young teenagers.

In a series of interlaced “criss-crossed” events, Perkins has accurately depicted the inner turmoil and wonderment of this particular period of time in a teenager’s life. With a clear, contemporary setting, Perkins sets her realistic characters upon a stage that smacks of teenage angst, dreams and hopes. Real life exchanges take place where it is obvious that “one person wants to be understood, but obscures [his or] her feelings with completely unrelated words and facial expression…” (280); an event so recognizable by any teen who deals with peers.

Perkins also creates real-to-life exchanges between parents and children that allows the adult reader a glimpse into the struggles that take place in trying to communicate – or not trying hard enough. Nowhere is this more apparent than when Debbie and her mother briefly talk about a boy that Debbie has a crush on who left for California. Her mother had no way of knowing that this would have been a good time to tell her daughter that she had once known a boy who went away. … They might have talked then about how that felt, and what you did next. But their secrets inadvertently sidestepped each other, unaware, like blindfolded elephants crossing the tiny room. (281)

Perkins carefully and slowly develops her characters, revealing their growth through actions and glimpses into their thoughts and feelings. The characters are realistic and believeable. While it may seem that the story is initially slow and uneventful, the reader is quickly caught up in the life of Debbie and the people who criss cross her life.

Weedflower - Cynthia Kadohata

2007-07-22T16:44:00.001-05:00

Kadohata, Cynthia. 2006. WEEDFLOWER. New York: Atheneum Books for Young Readers. ISBN: 978-0-689-86574-9.

Life is fairly simple for Sumiko. She is well loved by her aunt and uncle after her parents died, she lives and works on their flower farm, and has a fondness for weedflowers (stocks) and their scent. Yet life away from the farm is more complex. Sumiko is the only Japanese girl in her school and when she ‘uninvited’ from a class birthday party because of her race, she experiences humiliation for the first time. Sadly it was not to be the last.

As the war with the Japanese progresses, Sumiko, her family, and neighbors begin to burn those things that are Japanese: books, family portraits, even Sumiko’s parents’ wedding photo. Yet this doesn’t help as all Japanese in the area are forced to give up everything they own and are sent away to internment camps. Their first place of residence is the San Carlos Race Track where Sumiko and her family are assigned Section Seven, Stable Four. With straw stuffed mattresses and open latrines, her family lives in a two-horse stable that stinks of manure and chlorine under the watchful eye and spotlights of armed guards.

It isn’t long until they receive permanent relocation orders to Poston, Arizona, located on an Indian Reservation. Once in Arizona, the family is battered by heat, sun, and dust. They slowly but reluctantly come to terms with their isolation and virtual imprisonment. Tempers are short, crime and disrespect become more common place, and yet still people manage to have gardens and create a life. Sumiko carefully plants some of the Weedflower seeds that she brought with her and nurtures them to bloom in the arid desert. She also makes her first friend, an Indian boy from the reservation, and begins to understand the complexity of prejudice and social isolation that can be experienced in varying ways by many people. Just as Sumiko begins to build a life for herself in the camp, her aunt accepts a job in Illinois and Sumiko must leave friends, family members, and the life she had made for herself among the dust of Arizona. While she initially revolts against the idea it isn’t until Sumiko thought about why her grandfather originally came to the United States that she changes her mind – he came for a future.

The accuracy in which Kadohata presents the world of unheaval, prejudice and relocation of Japanese Americans is at its finest as seen through the perspective of a young girl. Kadohata shows these events through Sumiko’s eyes and heart as her known world is destroyed yet also Kadohata clearly conveys hope and Sumiko’s indomitable will through Sumiko’s words, thoughts, and deeds. The perspective of history, though seen through Sumiko, is clear and concise with events seen from a child’s perception, thus making it more palatable for the intended age range of readers.

While some may feel that the book verges on being too long, each and every setting and events are vital towards developing the structure of the story as well as the development of the character who continually learns how to adjust to her ever-changing world. Kadohata carefully juxtaposes Japanese traditions and way of life to the immediate area and people, even going so far as to bring in the traditional ways of the Native Americans whose reservation is the site of the permanent relocation camp of the interned Japanese Americans. By recreating these cultural differences, the reader can infer the similarities that unite all families, all races, and all cultures.

The relocation of Japanese Americans is a dark part of the history of the United States but it is a reality that is brought vividly to life in Weedflower. Reminiscent of the young adult novel, Eyes of the Emperor by Graham Salisbury, Weedflower is the perfect bridge for younger readers to see, feel, and hopefully understand the nuances of political and social reactions to other cultures during a time of war.

Almost gone: the world's rarest animals - Steve Jenkins

2007-07-09T14:46:00.001-05:00

Jenkins, Steve. 2006. ALMOST GONE: THE WORLD’S RAREST ANIMALS. New York: HarperCollins Publishers Inc. ISBN: 978-0060535988.

Most children realize that when something is rare that means there are not too many left of whatever it is and children are intrigued to learn more about whatever it is. Jenkins capitalizes on this fact with his book, Almost Gone: The World’s Rarest Animals, that presents animals almost gone, animals that are gone, and animals that are slowly coming back in numbers.

Jenkins introduces each animal in a simple paragraph that describes what type of animal it is, where it is found, general habits and activities, and the types of food it eats. Each paragraph is prefaced with the name of the animal, location of the animal, and most importantly, how many are left. Of particular note is the Abington Island tortoise named Lonesome George from the Galapagos Island. Jenkins states that George is the rarest animal left in the world as there is only one left. Yet, to counterbalance the stark reality of endangered species, Jenkins also presents 3 animals that are slowly making a comeback, such as the whooping crane and the alpine ibex.

The artwork in this informational picture book is unique and identifiable with other books by Jenkins. Each animal is depicted in colored torn/cut paper collages against a white background that brings the animal to the forefront of the reader’s attention. Young readers will not be disappointed in the information and the images in this latest book by Steve Jenkins.

Almost Gone: The World’s Rarest Animals, by Steve Jenkins, is an informational picture book that will appeal to young children through its compelling subject matter and simplistic way of presenting information. Jenkins combines simplified information and interesting details about rare animals into accurate, concise paragraphs. The accurate information about each animal draws comparisons for size, identifies location of the animal, as well as food, unique or unusual characteristics, as well as reasons for its endangered status. This makes the book an excellent read-aloud and catalyst for classroom and family discussions about this topic, a topic that has long been of interest to children.

Aleutian sparrow - Karen Hesse

2007-06-27T07:47:00.001-05:00

Hesse, Karen. 2003. Aleutian sparrow. Illus. by Evon Zerbetz. New York, NY: Margaret K. McElderry. ISBN: 0689861893

The Aleutian Sparrow is a verse novel told from the perspective of a young girl who is forced to relocate from her home on the island of Unalaska in the Aleutian Islands in the Bering Sea. It is the summer before the Japanese attack the islands and Vera decides to return home to visit family and friends in Kashega, a small town on Unalaska in the Aleutian Islands. Life is simple and good for this young girl, spending “crayon days” with her friends and not knowing that soon it will come to an end with the invasion of the Japanese. When the United States army steps in, the innocent people of the Aleutian Islands are forced to leave their homes, churches, islands, and way of life as they are relocated to internment camps in the deep woods of Southeast Alaska.

Vera’s town of Kashega is forced to relocate 8 miles outside of Ketchikan, Alaska where the land, weather, and topography are vastly different than anything she has experienced. In the subsequent years they suffer from ill-health, a lack of food and medical care as well as watching friends and family members assimilate and try to become Americanchin or die. Through carefully chosen words, the reader is made aware of Vera’s grieving for her loss of culture, friends, and even her mother. Eventually they are returned home, only to find much of their life had been destroyed yet through it all there is a resounding song of resilience and hope in these people

Written from the perspective of a young girl, the reader connects the dots of her life through a series of unrhymed verses that takes the reader from her youth and life in the Aleutian Islands to the forced relocation outside of Ketchican, Alaska and ultimately back to the war ravaged island of her birth. These dots of life are complimented by the strong, simplistic wood cuts of the illustrator that preface each section, providing a pause in the flow of verse.

The voice of Vera is strong and filled with character as the reader can identify the young girl at the beginning of the novel and follow her growth to the young woman she becomes at the end. Her voice speaks of isolated moments: observations, memories, pain, and longing for what has been lost. More importantly, there is a strong authenticity to the words, reflecting the culture and environment of the First Nations People, the Aleuts.

Many of the verses are peppered with strong figurative language and sense imagery that conveys weather, native thought, topography, and emotions. It is not too hard to find examples of simile, metaphor, personificaiton, and symbolism in the contents of these verses. It is important to note that the language is the strength of the speaker’s voice and shines forth at moments of contemplation, great sorrow, or joy. While approaching their home on Unalaska after years of imprisonment, she finds that

Our resentment folds down into a small package and is
Locked away under the floor of our hearts.

Due to the complexity of the language, these phrases and sentences will be recognized and enjoyed by the more mature reader far more readily than those readers for whom this book is intended. This may be due to lack of exposure to the writing conventions and structures of the verses themselves. The imagery of language would need to be taught and in doing so, may negate any joy the younger student might find in the novel.

The biggest drawback to this book is the fact that extensive background knowledge will be needed by the reader to understand and appreciate the events that take place. Of additional concern is the lack of knowledge about this particular culture, locale, and life style. However, it would be a wonderful compliment to those lessons where students are learning about the First Nations People. In the hands of a good teacher or librarian this book could be a powerfully quiet voice that will grab the reader with its heartfelt complexity and quiet strength and affirmation of life.

Porch lies - Patricia McKissack

2007-06-18T19:54:00.001-05:00

McKissack, Patricia C. 2006. PORCH LIES: TALES OF SLICKSTERS, TRICKSTERS, AND OTHER WILY CHARACTERS. Illus. by André Carrilho. New York: Schwartz & Wade Books. ISBN: 037593619X.

Recalling a childhood spent reading and listening to stories, which she calls porch lies, McKissack has turned these stories into a collection that borders into the realm of tall tales. The James brothers ride once again in “Aunt Gran and the Outlaws” but instead of being bad, we see them in a kinder light as they save Aunt Gran and the townsfolk from a dastardly character who threatens to take their land. “Pete Bruce” not only comes to town, he tricks Frenchie Mae Bosley into giving him some of her coconut cream pie and milk, instead of him paying for it. Yet Ralph the “King of the Ghosts” and “Cake Norris” who wakes up dead fades into comparison to, “The Devil’s Guitar” where one man is given a chance to make a decision and its inevitable outcome.

McKissack has put together a strong collection of tales from the oral tradition of her past, tales that may, or may not, have some small root in fact, but tales with touches of magic, tricks, heroes and intrigue that make for strong telling. While these stories will not be familiar to most children, they are enjoyable to read and will be outstanding as stories to read aloud.

The stories themselves are rooted in the African American culture of the late 1800s to early 1900s. This era lends itself well to stories that speak of a past; of past ways of being, acting, and living. This era is also well represented in the artwork that accompanies each story - with dress and images that are characteristic of a simpler time. Each tale is prefaced by a short author's connection to the original person from whom she first heard the tale yet these prefaces lack background information that would help the reader or listener better understand the historical context in which each tale rests.

The characters in the story represent certain basic human characteristics, yet are not flat in their depiction. Rather the characters are alive through the narrator's voice, providing enough embellishment that the characters have a persona that supports the stories and events that take place. The tales themselves represent good and evil, right and wrong, truth and lie, and light and dark. The plots are fairly simplistic in construction, enabling one to present them in an oral reading with younger children yet sometimes the subject matter keeps some tales reserved for older children. In some cases the plot of the tales is set into play through a historical event that children may or may not be aware of. Consequently, some tales, such as “Aunt Gran and the Outlaws” will necessitate presenting background knowledge as to who were the James Brothers and why were they outlaws?

The strongest parts of the collection are those stories where the voice of the narrator that retells the tales is that of a child as in “When Pete Bruce Come to Town” or “The Earth Bone and the King of the Ghosts.” The voice rings true and the reader is given a glimpse into the actions of the tale from a child’s perspective – where the child comes away knowing the truth, unlike the adults in the tales. While they may seem like realistic tales, many of the tales have a touch of magic to the structure or an element of legends and heroes which can delight the reader.

Book Review 2: Genre 1 - Picture Books

2007-06-08T21:00:00.000-05:00

Book Review 2: Genre 1 – Picture Books

Bang, Molly. 2000. Picture This: How Pictures Work. San Francisco, CA.: SeaStar Books. ISBN: 079-0-618-19457-5.

PLOT SUMMARY

There is a science behind the creation of artwork but often it goes either unseen or unrealized by the viewing public. Generally we know how a picture makes us feel and we usually know if we like it or not. But do we pay much attention to the forms and colors in a work of art? Molly Bang wondered about the power of the elements in a work of art and she has written a book of self-exploration into the forms, lines, colors, and compositions of an art piece and how different elements can make the viewer feel different things.

Bang models a self-exploration into the story of Little Red Riding Hood using a minimum of 4 colors and very few shapes. Using a “think-aloud” approach to her writing, the reader easily follows along with her exploration into the science of using visual elements to their best advantage. Bang also shows how forms have or have not power based on their position on the page, movement based on line choice, comfort or fear based on the juxtaposition of colors and shapes as well as proximity, and how forms can be the core of the story, despite the words.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Bang uses the story of Little Red Riding Hood as the base for her exploration, writing in such a way that the reader feels as if she is thinking aloud just for him or her. Bang experiments with four basic colors noting how colors can influence how the reader feels about the actions taking place by changing colors and analyzing why a particular color may or may not work. At the same time she also works with a variety of lines and shapes, noting which type of lines can instigate certain types of feelings such as foreboding, comfort, and stability. (diagonal, curved, horizontal, vertical) and what types of shapes can be used to instill a sense of fear or comfort. (triangle, rectangles, diamond)

Bang also spends quite a bit of time and thought into explaining and showing certain basic art principles that are used in the construction of artwork. For example, “smooth, flat horizontal shapes give us a sense of stability and calm” (Bang 42) while “vertical shapes are more exciting and active” (44). Not surprisingly, “diagonal shapes are dynamic because they imply motion or tension” (46) just as the “center of the page is the most effective center of attention” (62).

In essence, Bang gives clear, precise examples suitable for all ages that are supported by her introspective writing for each step of the process. While she does address most of the visual elements are mentioned by Tunnell and Jacobs on pages 34-36, she does not mention the use of textures in her book. Bang sums up the book by providing a step-by-step process for analyzing one’s artwork as well as further exercises that the reader can do to further exploration in this topic of art.

It is a delightful read, one that opened my eyes to the subtle yet powerful forces that are at work in a given work of art.

REVIEW EXCERPTS

“Using the simplest lines and shapes, artist Molly Bang builds up an expressive artistic world. Then, shifting roles, she helps us to understand how this world works.” Howard Gardner, psychologist and author. (located on the back cover of the book)

CONNECTIONS

-The techniques and experiments presented in this book could easily be explored in an art class or library class that is learning how to look at art/illustrations in a book. Basically, the teacher or librarian could model the initial process on an overhead with colored plastic overlays and “think-aloud” the thought processes that Bang so completely explains that goes into deciding how the elements of a picture go together.

-After an initial introduction of the concepts and elements contained in this book, students could draw their own interpretation of the Three Little Pigs, using minimum colors, shapes, and forms. How would you show the difference in personalities between the three pigs? What forms would you use to differentiate between the three houses and the quality of their construction?

Jacobs, James S., and Michael O. Tunnell. 2008. Children's Literature, Briefly. 4thed.
Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Prentice Hall.