1. Bibliographic
Johnson, Angela. 2003. THE FIRST PART LAST. New York, Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers. ISBN 0689849222
2. Plot Summary
This book tells the story of Bobby and Nia, two sixteen year-old kids who find themselves preparing to become parents themselves. However, Nia experiences a stroke during childbirth and the ensuing brain damage leaves her in a “persistent vegetative state” (Johnson). Now, bobby finds himself dealing with the loss of his girlfriend while at the same time being thrust into parenthood as a single father. Written from Bobby's point of view, this story describes the fear, exhaustion, and love that Bobby experiences as he settles into a new life with his baby girl Feather.
3. Critical Analysis
Any piece of contemporary realistic fiction must both tell a story that is engaging and believable in our present day and present characters that are believable and that the reader can relate to. This book does an excellent job of describing true-to-life situations and emotions as Bobby gives up his own childhood to become a father at sixteen. When Nia's father asks him about his plans, he thinks to himself, “No. I don't have any plans except shooting hoops with my partners at the rec center, and hanging out till we get bored and take in a movie” (Johnson). Clearly Bobby is not ready for all of the responsibilities that parenthood entails. However, after the birth, when it becomes clear that Nia is gone for good, Bobby decides to step up and be a parent. “'But I love her, and even though I am not set up for her, she's mine. And I'm hers.'[...] And then I know I'm being a man, not just some kid who's upset and wants it his way. I'm being a man” (Johnson). In today's society, where teen pregnancy is becoming a social norm, most readers will be able to relate on some level to this all too realistic situation.
Also, the reality of the situation adds credibility to the characters and their mixed up reactions to this life-changing event. In the beginning, both Bobby and Nia react in very selfish and juvenile ways. "How will this affect me, and what about my own childhood?" seem to be the only questions these two are concerned about. Unfortunately, this is a very realistic response given that they are both only sixteen years old. In the end, however, Bobby is faced with a very tough decision and the choice he makes will change his life forever. As a reader following the story, we find ourselves feeling sorry for Bobby and hoping that he really will learn to be a man , and a good father. This multi-award winning book offers the reader a profound and realistic look at the challenges that come along with the choice to become a teen parent.
4. Review Excerpts
Horn Book: Although the plot's structure is complex -- alternating back and forth between "Then" and "Now" -- Bobby's earnest and impulsive voice carries listeners along in a way that is intimate and involving.
School Library Journal: In spite of its brevity, the story is complex and satisfying. Bobby is both boy and man, responsible and overwhelmed, near panic and able to plan an intelligent and loving future for Feather, the daughter he adores and nurtures.
Horn Book Magazine: What elevates this scenario above melodrama is Johnson's unique storytelling strategy: she follows the arc of Bobby's consciousness in alternating short chapters labeled "then" (before Feather's birth) and "now." This allows the reader to measure how far sleep-starved single dad Bobby has fallen, psychically--and how far he's come.
5. Connections
* Other Books by Angela Johnson
IN DADDY'S ARMS, I AM TALL
VIOLET'S MUSIC
HEAVEN
* Other Books about Teen Parents/ Pregnancy
TEEN ANGEL by: Gloris Velasquez
DETOUR FOR EMMY by: Marilyn Reynolds
SOMEONE TO LOVE ME by: Jeannette Eyerly
WHAT KIND OF LOVE?: THE DIARY OF A PREGNANT TEENAGER by: Sheila Cole
A DANCE FOR THREE by: Louise Plummer
Friday, November 30, 2007
Thursday, November 29, 2007
THE GIVER
1. Bibliography
Lowry, Lois. 1993. THE GIVER. New York, Houghton Mifflin Company. ISBN 0395645662
2. Plot Summary
This book describes a Utopian society set at some unknown point in the future. However, one character, Jonas, discovers that his perfect world is, in fact, far from perfect. Although there is now war, no hunger, and no homelessness, there is also no freedom, no choices, and no emotion. As the chosen Receiver of all of the community's past memories, it is Jonas's responsibility to bear the burden of experiencing emotions like joy and love, seeing colors for the first time, and feeling true pain and anguish. In the end, Jonas and his mentor, The Giver, decided that it is time for the community to share this burden. The only way for that to happen is for Jonas to break every rule he has ever known and call upon courage he is not sure that her possesses. In order for Jonas to change his community and save one very special friend, Jonas must disappear.
3. Critical Analysis
This modern science fiction/science fantasy work offers us a profound glimpse into what may sound like a perfect world, but is, in fact cruel, ominous, and binding. The themes of freedom vs. enslavement and of love vs. hate are important and prevalent themes on which the entire plot of the story is based. As in all good fantasy works, it is important that the themes "reflect universal truths that transcend time and place" (Vardell). In the end, Jonas's intense desire to expose his community and free them from their bondage leads him to plan a daring escape. His love for the "newchild" (Lowry) Gabriel gives him the courage to see it through. These two themes are pervasive human experiences and can be understood by all readers, despite age or nationality.
It is also very important for a science fiction work to have a well developed and consistent setting. As a general rule, worlds in science fiction works do not necessarily follow the same rules that our real world follows. Therefore, it is important for the author to establish rules for this fictitious environment and to remain faithful to those rules throughout the work. In THE GIVER, the world seems like the same world that we live in today, however, we soon learn that society functions much differently than our own. Unlike our own lives, these characters have a life where "nothing was ever unexpected. Or inconvenient. Or unusual. The life without color, pain , or past" (Lowry). This seemingly Utopian world, where people have been genetically designed to see only in black and white and where there are no choices because life is already mapped out, has no joy, freedom, or love. Throughout this work, Lowry remains true to the rule that, as the Receiver of memory, Jonas and his mentor, The Giver, are the only characters to see there world as the emotionless void that it really is.
This award winning book uses memorable, realistic characters and a consistent, almost familiar setting to tackle the universal truths of our human need for freedom and, above all, love.
4. Review Excerpts
Booklist: Lowry's simple, powerful prose creates an anti-Utopian world where the lack of hardship, war, and poverty only covers the citizens' deeper lack of freedom.
Horn Book Guide: Although life seems perfect -- there is no hunger, no disease, no pollution, no fear -- the reader becomes uneasily aware that all is not well. The story is skillfully written; the air of disquiet is delicately insinuated; and the theme of balancing the values of freedom and security is beautifully presented.
School Library Journal: The author makes real abstract concepts, such as the meaning of a life in which there are virtually no choices to be made and no experiences with deep feelings. This tightly plotted story and its believable characters will stay with readers for a long time.
5. Connections
* Other Books by Lois Lowry
NUMBER THE STARS
THE SILENT BOY
SEE YOU AROUND, SAM!
* Other Books about Utopian Societies
MESSENGER by: Lois Lowry
THE MOUNTAIN OF TRUTH by: Dale Carlson
* Other Science Fiction Books
THE WHITE MOUNTAINS by: John Christopher
CHANGELING by: Delia Sherman
GIFTS by: Ursula K. Le Guin
Lowry, Lois. 1993. THE GIVER. New York, Houghton Mifflin Company. ISBN 0395645662
2. Plot Summary
This book describes a Utopian society set at some unknown point in the future. However, one character, Jonas, discovers that his perfect world is, in fact, far from perfect. Although there is now war, no hunger, and no homelessness, there is also no freedom, no choices, and no emotion. As the chosen Receiver of all of the community's past memories, it is Jonas's responsibility to bear the burden of experiencing emotions like joy and love, seeing colors for the first time, and feeling true pain and anguish. In the end, Jonas and his mentor, The Giver, decided that it is time for the community to share this burden. The only way for that to happen is for Jonas to break every rule he has ever known and call upon courage he is not sure that her possesses. In order for Jonas to change his community and save one very special friend, Jonas must disappear.
3. Critical Analysis
This modern science fiction/science fantasy work offers us a profound glimpse into what may sound like a perfect world, but is, in fact cruel, ominous, and binding. The themes of freedom vs. enslavement and of love vs. hate are important and prevalent themes on which the entire plot of the story is based. As in all good fantasy works, it is important that the themes "reflect universal truths that transcend time and place" (Vardell). In the end, Jonas's intense desire to expose his community and free them from their bondage leads him to plan a daring escape. His love for the "newchild" (Lowry) Gabriel gives him the courage to see it through. These two themes are pervasive human experiences and can be understood by all readers, despite age or nationality.
It is also very important for a science fiction work to have a well developed and consistent setting. As a general rule, worlds in science fiction works do not necessarily follow the same rules that our real world follows. Therefore, it is important for the author to establish rules for this fictitious environment and to remain faithful to those rules throughout the work. In THE GIVER, the world seems like the same world that we live in today, however, we soon learn that society functions much differently than our own. Unlike our own lives, these characters have a life where "nothing was ever unexpected. Or inconvenient. Or unusual. The life without color, pain , or past" (Lowry). This seemingly Utopian world, where people have been genetically designed to see only in black and white and where there are no choices because life is already mapped out, has no joy, freedom, or love. Throughout this work, Lowry remains true to the rule that, as the Receiver of memory, Jonas and his mentor, The Giver, are the only characters to see there world as the emotionless void that it really is.
This award winning book uses memorable, realistic characters and a consistent, almost familiar setting to tackle the universal truths of our human need for freedom and, above all, love.
4. Review Excerpts
Booklist: Lowry's simple, powerful prose creates an anti-Utopian world where the lack of hardship, war, and poverty only covers the citizens' deeper lack of freedom.
Horn Book Guide: Although life seems perfect -- there is no hunger, no disease, no pollution, no fear -- the reader becomes uneasily aware that all is not well. The story is skillfully written; the air of disquiet is delicately insinuated; and the theme of balancing the values of freedom and security is beautifully presented.
School Library Journal: The author makes real abstract concepts, such as the meaning of a life in which there are virtually no choices to be made and no experiences with deep feelings. This tightly plotted story and its believable characters will stay with readers for a long time.
5. Connections
* Other Books by Lois Lowry
NUMBER THE STARS
THE SILENT BOY
SEE YOU AROUND, SAM!
* Other Books about Utopian Societies
MESSENGER by: Lois Lowry
THE MOUNTAIN OF TRUTH by: Dale Carlson
* Other Science Fiction Books
THE WHITE MOUNTAINS by: John Christopher
CHANGELING by: Delia Sherman
GIFTS by: Ursula K. Le Guin
THE HIGHER POWER OF LUCKY
1. Bibliography
Patron, Susan. 2006. THE HIGHER POWER OF LUCKY. Ill. by Matt Phelan. New York, Atheneum Books for Young Readers. ISBN 1416901949
2. Plot Summary
This funny tale recounts the story of Lucky, an intelligent young girl looking for answers to her many questions about the complexities of life. In her young ten year old mind, finding her "higher power" will bring her worry and confusion to an end. Unfortunately, Lucky has plenty of reasons to feel worried and confused. After the sudden death of her mother, Lucky is left in the care of her estranged father's first wife, Bridgette, who comes all the way from France to care for Lucky. However, the small impoverished town of Hard Pan, California is not what Bridgette was expecting. Lucky fears that Bridgette will one day return to France, leaving her ward behind. In desperation, Lucky runs away during the middle of a sand storm hoping to prove to Bridgette that she is a lovable and valuable person. In the end, Lucky is both surprised and relieved to learn that Bridgette plans to legally adopt Lucky . As it turns out, Lucky's "higher power" was the strength and determination that she had inside her the whole time.
3. Critical Analysis
This humorous story falls under the category of contemporary realistic fiction. First of all, although we do not know the precise date in which the story is set, we are given no indication that the setting is either in the past or in the future. Also, this story could take place in the real world. In other words, it is a realistic or believable tale. However, since this particular story did not actually take place in the real world and was not based on any actual events, it is, in fact, fictitious.
One of the most important aspects of a good realistic fiction story is believable characters. The best characters are those that the reader can either relate to on a personal level, or those that remind them of people in their own lives. In this story, our main character, Lucky, is quite believable. As a ten year old budding scientist, Lucky's brain is overflowing with questions. "She figured she had so many crevices and wrinkles, almost all of them filled with questions and anxious thoughts, that if you were to take her brain and flatten it out, it would cover a huge space, like maybe a king-size bed" (Patron). Like all girls her age, Lucky has questions about life, death, love, anatomy, friends, and even her own appearance. Just as in real life, this is a very confusing time for Lucky.
A second important aspect of realistic fiction is having a believable setting. The actual location does not necessarily have to be a real place, but it should absolutely feel like a real place to the reader. This story is set in Hard Pan, California, which is located on the outskirts of the Mojave desert. This desolate, impoverished community has a population of a whopping 43 people. While I am uncertain as to whether the town of Hard Pan actually exists, the searing heat, dust storms, insects, and snakes described in the story certainly make it seem very real.
Lastly, the plot of a realistic fiction story must be "true-to-life" (Vardell). In this book, Lucky is plagued by the death of her mother and the nagging thought that Bridgette will leave her too. The loss of a parent and the fear of being alone are two common themes in realistic fiction because they are pervasive human experiences. In other words, we can all relate to these feelings to some degree. Overall, this book provides both a humorous and true-to-life reading experience.
4. Review Excerpts
School Library Journal: The novel addresses difficult topics such as death, absent parents, and addiction with realism, humor, and wonder, making the overall message one of hope and love.
Horn Book Guide: Patron's episodic tale of a grieving, insecure little girl is never heavy-handed or maudlin, due in part to quiet bursts of humor. Her sensory descriptions, supported by Phelan's gentle spot art, animate this unique community.
Publisher's Weekly: Patron's poignant Newbery-winning story about a girl who fears being abandoned by her legal guardian-and her only semblance of a family-sails along with believable childlike rhythms and kid's-eye-view observations.
5. Connections
* Other Books by Susan Patron
MAYBE YES, MAYBE NO, MAYBE MAYBE
DARK CLOUD STRONG BREEZE
FIVE BAD BOYS, BILLY QUE, AND THE DUSTDOBBIN
* Other Books about Orphans
MADELINE: by Ludwig Bemelmans
A LITTLE PRINCESS: THE STORY OF SARA CREWE by: Frances Hodgson Burnett
ANNE OF GREEN GABLES by: L. M. Montgomery
* Other Books about the Death of a Parent
ONE OF THOSE HIDEOUS BOOKS WHERE THE MOTHER DIES by: Sonya Sones
A TIME TO KEEP SILENT by: Gloria Whelan
PIECES OF GEORGIA by: Jennifer Bryant
* Other Books about Runaways
SILVER DOLLAR GIRL by: Katherine Ayres
NORTH by: Donna Jo Napoli
SAVING SWEETNESS by: Tom Bodett
Patron, Susan. 2006. THE HIGHER POWER OF LUCKY. Ill. by Matt Phelan. New York, Atheneum Books for Young Readers. ISBN 1416901949
2. Plot Summary
This funny tale recounts the story of Lucky, an intelligent young girl looking for answers to her many questions about the complexities of life. In her young ten year old mind, finding her "higher power" will bring her worry and confusion to an end. Unfortunately, Lucky has plenty of reasons to feel worried and confused. After the sudden death of her mother, Lucky is left in the care of her estranged father's first wife, Bridgette, who comes all the way from France to care for Lucky. However, the small impoverished town of Hard Pan, California is not what Bridgette was expecting. Lucky fears that Bridgette will one day return to France, leaving her ward behind. In desperation, Lucky runs away during the middle of a sand storm hoping to prove to Bridgette that she is a lovable and valuable person. In the end, Lucky is both surprised and relieved to learn that Bridgette plans to legally adopt Lucky . As it turns out, Lucky's "higher power" was the strength and determination that she had inside her the whole time.
3. Critical Analysis
This humorous story falls under the category of contemporary realistic fiction. First of all, although we do not know the precise date in which the story is set, we are given no indication that the setting is either in the past or in the future. Also, this story could take place in the real world. In other words, it is a realistic or believable tale. However, since this particular story did not actually take place in the real world and was not based on any actual events, it is, in fact, fictitious.
One of the most important aspects of a good realistic fiction story is believable characters. The best characters are those that the reader can either relate to on a personal level, or those that remind them of people in their own lives. In this story, our main character, Lucky, is quite believable. As a ten year old budding scientist, Lucky's brain is overflowing with questions. "She figured she had so many crevices and wrinkles, almost all of them filled with questions and anxious thoughts, that if you were to take her brain and flatten it out, it would cover a huge space, like maybe a king-size bed" (Patron). Like all girls her age, Lucky has questions about life, death, love, anatomy, friends, and even her own appearance. Just as in real life, this is a very confusing time for Lucky.
A second important aspect of realistic fiction is having a believable setting. The actual location does not necessarily have to be a real place, but it should absolutely feel like a real place to the reader. This story is set in Hard Pan, California, which is located on the outskirts of the Mojave desert. This desolate, impoverished community has a population of a whopping 43 people. While I am uncertain as to whether the town of Hard Pan actually exists, the searing heat, dust storms, insects, and snakes described in the story certainly make it seem very real.
Lastly, the plot of a realistic fiction story must be "true-to-life" (Vardell). In this book, Lucky is plagued by the death of her mother and the nagging thought that Bridgette will leave her too. The loss of a parent and the fear of being alone are two common themes in realistic fiction because they are pervasive human experiences. In other words, we can all relate to these feelings to some degree. Overall, this book provides both a humorous and true-to-life reading experience.
4. Review Excerpts
School Library Journal: The novel addresses difficult topics such as death, absent parents, and addiction with realism, humor, and wonder, making the overall message one of hope and love.
Horn Book Guide: Patron's episodic tale of a grieving, insecure little girl is never heavy-handed or maudlin, due in part to quiet bursts of humor. Her sensory descriptions, supported by Phelan's gentle spot art, animate this unique community.
Publisher's Weekly: Patron's poignant Newbery-winning story about a girl who fears being abandoned by her legal guardian-and her only semblance of a family-sails along with believable childlike rhythms and kid's-eye-view observations.
5. Connections
* Other Books by Susan Patron
MAYBE YES, MAYBE NO, MAYBE MAYBE
DARK CLOUD STRONG BREEZE
FIVE BAD BOYS, BILLY QUE, AND THE DUSTDOBBIN
* Other Books about Orphans
MADELINE: by Ludwig Bemelmans
A LITTLE PRINCESS: THE STORY OF SARA CREWE by: Frances Hodgson Burnett
ANNE OF GREEN GABLES by: L. M. Montgomery
* Other Books about the Death of a Parent
ONE OF THOSE HIDEOUS BOOKS WHERE THE MOTHER DIES by: Sonya Sones
A TIME TO KEEP SILENT by: Gloria Whelan
PIECES OF GEORGIA by: Jennifer Bryant
* Other Books about Runaways
SILVER DOLLAR GIRL by: Katherine Ayres
NORTH by: Donna Jo Napoli
SAVING SWEETNESS by: Tom Bodett
Thursday, November 8, 2007
WORTH
1. Bibliography
LaFaye, A. 2004. WORTH. New York: Simon & Schuster Books. ISBN 0689857306
2. Plot Summary
Nathaniel Peale is a young man used to hard work on his family's farm. When he breaks his leg in a freak accident, he finds himself suddenly unable to walk, much less help to save the farm from foreclosure. In desperation, his father brings home a boy from the orphan train to take up the slack. John Worth was left orphaned after his family was killed in a tenement fire. With no one to care for him, he was sent out west on the orphan train to find a new family. The two boys get off to a very rocky start as John tries to adjust to farm life and, in turn, Nate tries adjusts to having his place along side his father filled by another boy. However, the two eventually find themselves working together to save the farm from the fence cutters plaguing the community. In the end, the two boys overcome their differences to become not just friends, but brothers.
3. Critical Analysis
Set on a small struggling farm in Nebraska in the late nineteenth century, this story highlights the difficulties faced by those who moved west to find land of their own. For example, it accurately depicts the land feuds waged between those wanting to use the land for crops and those needing more and more grazing room for large herds of cattle. "Herder meets homesteader. Like asking a cougar to dance with a bear" (LaFaye, 2004). It also illustrates the financial burdens suffered by so many of the families who seemed to always find themselves short when it came time to pay the land payment. This time in history was quite certainly a time of hardship and sacrificed and LaFaye has made that point quite evident in the story of the Peale family.
The style of the piece is largely episodic and lacking in emotion. While the reader may sympathize with Nate after his accident, LaFaye resists the urge to play on emotional appeal. Rather, the reader is encouraged to cheer for Nate as he regains his strength rather than wallow with him in his grief. The sole instance in which the reader may feel at pull at his/her heartstrings is when John collapses in tears at the memory of his lost Mother. John tells Mrs. Peale, "'I miss her till it chokes me.' Just like that he went from laughing to crying so hard he couldn't breathe" (LaFaye, 2004). Otherwise, the story progresses with little interruption of the main plot.
Finally, the characters in this piece are reminiscent of the hardworking folks that one would expect to find working a farm in the late nineteenth century. While education is deemed valuable, Nate does not attend school until after he is unable to work the farm because the future of the family rests on a good crop harvest. For many children of that day, education was sacrificed for the much needed extra hand in the fields. Also, we find that while Mrs. Peale is quite handy with fixing or "tinkering" (LaFaye, 2004), she must hide her skill and give credit to her husband. After all, no man would trust a woman to fix what he himself could not. This gender discrimination was quite common for some time even after the setting of this story. Overall, Lafaye has created a tale true to the time in history in which it was set and yet still likable for modern day kids.
4. Review Excerpts
Publisher's Weekly: LaFaye paints a realistic picture of the hardships for average families at the time the Orphan Train rode the rails. The author weaves in a subtle message about the power of story, as Nate builds a bond with John by reading him Greek myths out of a borrowed book.
Horn Book Magazine: Because the two boys are lonely and heartsick, we know they need each other long before they know it, but LaFaye's narrative largely resists the sentimentality of their coming together. Heroic stories of ancient Greek mythology and a violent feud being waged among Nate's neighbors both work in the boys' conciliation, giving this short tale a quietly epic as well as an ordinary sweep.
School Library Journal: The author convincingly conveys the boys' gradual realization of the value of one another's friendship. Other themes include the importance of reading and education, meeting challenges head on, relying on and playing a responsible role in your community, and recovering from loss.
5. Connections
* Other books by A. LaFaye
THE YEAR OF THE SAWDUST MAN
STRAWBERRY HILL
NISSA'S PLACE
* Other books about the Orphan Trains
CHILDREN OF THE ORPHAN TRAINS by Holly Littlefield
THE ORPHAN TRAINS: LEAVING THE CITIES BEHIND by Jeanne M. Bracken
WE RODE THE ORPHAN TRAINS by Andrea Warren
LaFaye, A. 2004. WORTH. New York: Simon & Schuster Books. ISBN 0689857306
2. Plot Summary
Nathaniel Peale is a young man used to hard work on his family's farm. When he breaks his leg in a freak accident, he finds himself suddenly unable to walk, much less help to save the farm from foreclosure. In desperation, his father brings home a boy from the orphan train to take up the slack. John Worth was left orphaned after his family was killed in a tenement fire. With no one to care for him, he was sent out west on the orphan train to find a new family. The two boys get off to a very rocky start as John tries to adjust to farm life and, in turn, Nate tries adjusts to having his place along side his father filled by another boy. However, the two eventually find themselves working together to save the farm from the fence cutters plaguing the community. In the end, the two boys overcome their differences to become not just friends, but brothers.
3. Critical Analysis
Set on a small struggling farm in Nebraska in the late nineteenth century, this story highlights the difficulties faced by those who moved west to find land of their own. For example, it accurately depicts the land feuds waged between those wanting to use the land for crops and those needing more and more grazing room for large herds of cattle. "Herder meets homesteader. Like asking a cougar to dance with a bear" (LaFaye, 2004). It also illustrates the financial burdens suffered by so many of the families who seemed to always find themselves short when it came time to pay the land payment. This time in history was quite certainly a time of hardship and sacrificed and LaFaye has made that point quite evident in the story of the Peale family.
The style of the piece is largely episodic and lacking in emotion. While the reader may sympathize with Nate after his accident, LaFaye resists the urge to play on emotional appeal. Rather, the reader is encouraged to cheer for Nate as he regains his strength rather than wallow with him in his grief. The sole instance in which the reader may feel at pull at his/her heartstrings is when John collapses in tears at the memory of his lost Mother. John tells Mrs. Peale, "'I miss her till it chokes me.' Just like that he went from laughing to crying so hard he couldn't breathe" (LaFaye, 2004). Otherwise, the story progresses with little interruption of the main plot.
Finally, the characters in this piece are reminiscent of the hardworking folks that one would expect to find working a farm in the late nineteenth century. While education is deemed valuable, Nate does not attend school until after he is unable to work the farm because the future of the family rests on a good crop harvest. For many children of that day, education was sacrificed for the much needed extra hand in the fields. Also, we find that while Mrs. Peale is quite handy with fixing or "tinkering" (LaFaye, 2004), she must hide her skill and give credit to her husband. After all, no man would trust a woman to fix what he himself could not. This gender discrimination was quite common for some time even after the setting of this story. Overall, Lafaye has created a tale true to the time in history in which it was set and yet still likable for modern day kids.
4. Review Excerpts
Publisher's Weekly: LaFaye paints a realistic picture of the hardships for average families at the time the Orphan Train rode the rails. The author weaves in a subtle message about the power of story, as Nate builds a bond with John by reading him Greek myths out of a borrowed book.
Horn Book Magazine: Because the two boys are lonely and heartsick, we know they need each other long before they know it, but LaFaye's narrative largely resists the sentimentality of their coming together. Heroic stories of ancient Greek mythology and a violent feud being waged among Nate's neighbors both work in the boys' conciliation, giving this short tale a quietly epic as well as an ordinary sweep.
School Library Journal: The author convincingly conveys the boys' gradual realization of the value of one another's friendship. Other themes include the importance of reading and education, meeting challenges head on, relying on and playing a responsible role in your community, and recovering from loss.
5. Connections
* Other books by A. LaFaye
THE YEAR OF THE SAWDUST MAN
STRAWBERRY HILL
NISSA'S PLACE
* Other books about the Orphan Trains
CHILDREN OF THE ORPHAN TRAINS by Holly Littlefield
THE ORPHAN TRAINS: LEAVING THE CITIES BEHIND by Jeanne M. Bracken
WE RODE THE ORPHAN TRAINS by Andrea Warren
THE MIDWIFE'S APPRENTICE
1. Bibliography
Cushman, Karen. 1995. THE MIDWIFE'S APPRENTICE. New York: Clarion Books. ISBN 0395692296
2. Plot Summary
This book, set in medieval England, tells the story of a homeless orphan named Brat who, by some twist of fate, finds herself being taken in by the stern, cantankerous midwife. There is certainly no love lost between the midwife and Brat, now called Beetle. On a good day she is treated like a slave; on a bad day, like an animal. However, her belly is full and she has a dry place to sleep. Along the way, the newly named Alyce learns many of the secrets of midwifery, but the really important lessons are much more personal. Alyce also learns trust, responsibility, and most importantly, self respect.
3. Critical Analysis
As with all works of historical fiction, the setting is perhaps the most integral part of the story. In this work, although we are not explicitly given a year, we do know that it is set in medieval England by the description of the village and the manor. This division of land was part of the feudal system in England during the middle ages. We are also given a glimpse into medieval life by the descriptions of daily life. For example, a meal may consist of bread, cheese and an onion. This is unlike any meal we might eat today. Also, the descriptions of the midwife's medicines are a historically accurate depiction of medical knowledge from the middle ages. For example, “Beetle carried the basket with the clean linen, ragwort and columbine seeds to speed the birth, cobwebs for stanching blood, bryony and woolly nightshade to cleanse and comfort the mother, goat's beard to bring forth her milk and sage tea for too much, jasper stone as a charm against misfortune, and mistletoe and elder leaves against witches” (Cushman, 1995). While some of these herbs do possess medicinal qualities, many are simply tools of superstition.
Besides setting, two other important elements of any fictional story are characterization and plot. First of all, the protagonist needs to be someone that the reader can relate to. In this story, Alyce is described as “unwashed, unnourished, unloved, and unlovely” (Cushman, 1995). All young girls can relate to feeling alone and unattractive, even if they have never been either of these.
As for plot, this story is written in an episodic style which leaves little time to get bogged down in the story. Rather, the story moves quickly, at times, seemingly racing to the end when Alyce must decide whether to return to the midwife or move on. Together the plot and characterization create a fast paced tale of a lovable character who just happens to learn and share a very valuable life lesson along the way.
4. Review Excerpts
Publisher's Weekly: Cushman has an almost unrivaled ability to build atmosphere, and her evocation of a medieval village, if not scholarly in its authenticity, is supremely colorful and pungent.
School Library Journal: Characters are sketched briefly but with telling, witty detail, and the very scents and sounds of the land and people's occupations fill each page as Alyce comes of age and heart. Earthy humor, the foibles of humans both high and low, and a fascinating mix of superstition and genuinely helpful herbal remedies attached to childbirth make this a truly delightful introduction to a world seldom seen in children's literature.
Booklist: The characters are drawn with zest and affection but no false reverence. Kids will like this short, fast-paced narrative about a hero who discovers that she's not ugly or stupid or alone.
5. Connections
* Other books by Karen Cushman
MATILDA BONE
RODZINA
CATHERINE, CALLED BIRDY
* Other books about herbal remedies
GREEN MAGIC: THE HEALING POWER OF HERBS, TALISMANS, AND STONES by Morwyn MEDICINES FROM NATURE by Peggy Thomas
MEDIEVAL HERBAL by Chronicle Books LLC Staff
* Other books about life in medieval England
LIFE IN THE MIDDLE AGES by Barron's Educational Editorial Staff
LIFE IN A MEDIEVAL VILLAGE by Gwenyth Morgan
CITIES AND TOWNS IN THE MIDDLE AGES by Mercedes Padrino Anderson
Cushman, Karen. 1995. THE MIDWIFE'S APPRENTICE. New York: Clarion Books. ISBN 0395692296
2. Plot Summary
This book, set in medieval England, tells the story of a homeless orphan named Brat who, by some twist of fate, finds herself being taken in by the stern, cantankerous midwife. There is certainly no love lost between the midwife and Brat, now called Beetle. On a good day she is treated like a slave; on a bad day, like an animal. However, her belly is full and she has a dry place to sleep. Along the way, the newly named Alyce learns many of the secrets of midwifery, but the really important lessons are much more personal. Alyce also learns trust, responsibility, and most importantly, self respect.
3. Critical Analysis
As with all works of historical fiction, the setting is perhaps the most integral part of the story. In this work, although we are not explicitly given a year, we do know that it is set in medieval England by the description of the village and the manor. This division of land was part of the feudal system in England during the middle ages. We are also given a glimpse into medieval life by the descriptions of daily life. For example, a meal may consist of bread, cheese and an onion. This is unlike any meal we might eat today. Also, the descriptions of the midwife's medicines are a historically accurate depiction of medical knowledge from the middle ages. For example, “Beetle carried the basket with the clean linen, ragwort and columbine seeds to speed the birth, cobwebs for stanching blood, bryony and woolly nightshade to cleanse and comfort the mother, goat's beard to bring forth her milk and sage tea for too much, jasper stone as a charm against misfortune, and mistletoe and elder leaves against witches” (Cushman, 1995). While some of these herbs do possess medicinal qualities, many are simply tools of superstition.
Besides setting, two other important elements of any fictional story are characterization and plot. First of all, the protagonist needs to be someone that the reader can relate to. In this story, Alyce is described as “unwashed, unnourished, unloved, and unlovely” (Cushman, 1995). All young girls can relate to feeling alone and unattractive, even if they have never been either of these.
As for plot, this story is written in an episodic style which leaves little time to get bogged down in the story. Rather, the story moves quickly, at times, seemingly racing to the end when Alyce must decide whether to return to the midwife or move on. Together the plot and characterization create a fast paced tale of a lovable character who just happens to learn and share a very valuable life lesson along the way.
4. Review Excerpts
Publisher's Weekly: Cushman has an almost unrivaled ability to build atmosphere, and her evocation of a medieval village, if not scholarly in its authenticity, is supremely colorful and pungent.
School Library Journal: Characters are sketched briefly but with telling, witty detail, and the very scents and sounds of the land and people's occupations fill each page as Alyce comes of age and heart. Earthy humor, the foibles of humans both high and low, and a fascinating mix of superstition and genuinely helpful herbal remedies attached to childbirth make this a truly delightful introduction to a world seldom seen in children's literature.
Booklist: The characters are drawn with zest and affection but no false reverence. Kids will like this short, fast-paced narrative about a hero who discovers that she's not ugly or stupid or alone.
5. Connections
* Other books by Karen Cushman
MATILDA BONE
RODZINA
CATHERINE, CALLED BIRDY
* Other books about herbal remedies
GREEN MAGIC: THE HEALING POWER OF HERBS, TALISMANS, AND STONES by Morwyn MEDICINES FROM NATURE by Peggy Thomas
MEDIEVAL HERBAL by Chronicle Books LLC Staff
* Other books about life in medieval England
LIFE IN THE MIDDLE AGES by Barron's Educational Editorial Staff
LIFE IN A MEDIEVAL VILLAGE by Gwenyth Morgan
CITIES AND TOWNS IN THE MIDDLE AGES by Mercedes Padrino Anderson
CLEOPATRA
1.Bibliography
Stanley, Diane and Peter Vennema. 1994. CLEOPATRA. Ill. by Diane Stanley. New York: Morrow Junior Books. ISBN 0688104142
2. Plot Summary
This beautiful book chronicles the life and times of one of Egypt's most famous rulers, Queen Cleopatra. As ruler, Cleopatra lived in a world of splendor, wealth, and education, for Alexandria was a center of learning. It was Cleopatra's goal to unite the world under Egypt's rule. At the height of her power, she came close to accomplishing her goal. However, Rome, too was a mighty force. In her efforts to unite these two kingdoms, Cleopatra won the affections of two of Rome's most memorable rulers. Both men lost their lives as a result of their love for Cleopatra. In the end, Rome was victorious in defeating the Egyptian army and it is commonly believed that Cleopatra took her own life rather than submit her throne to a foreign ruler.
3. Critical Analysis
The most important aspect of any historical work, even biographies, is accuracy. Diane Stanley begins this book with a preface detailing the time in which Cleopatra ruled. This preface gives the reader a cultural backdrop for the ensuing story and also provides some interesting and uncommon facts about Cleopatra herself. For example, most people believe that Cleopatra lived in the time of the Pharaohs and the building of the great pyramids. In fact, “when she was born, in 69 B.C., the pyramids had already been standing for more than twenty-five hundred years” (Stanley, 1994). Likewise, the assumption that the Queen of Egypt was an Egyptian is also false. “Cleopatra was Macedonian Greek, the last of the Ptolemies (Stanley, 1994). Stanley honestly points out, however, that much of what we know about this famous Queen was written by the Greek historian Plutarch more than 100 years after her death. Therefore, the information contained within these pages is as accurate as historically possible, but may still be influenced by the propaganda and biases of the time.
This story of Cleopatra is written as a simple prose narrative, however, the style captures and brings to life the intelligent and charming ruler. The pages are filled with descriptions, not only of the Queen, but of those who loved her as well as those who hated or even feared her. It is a story about the people who influenced or were influenced by this charismatic leader. This personable style is an essential part of what makes this such a likable and compelling story.
Finally, the illustrations in this work are magnificent. They are detailed, ornate, and the brilliant colors capture the wealth and decadence of the Egyptian court. Stanley's creative use of mosaic tiles is especially appealing. Overall, while the people themselves do not appear lifelike, the illustrations do succeed in bringing to life the wealthy, art-filled world of ancient Egypt.
4. Review Excerpts
Publishers Weekly: This peerless author/artist team makes the captivating... Cleopatra seem astoundingly real
Horn Book Guide: The authors have succeeded brilliantly in bringing the power and magnificence of Cleopatra and her world to life. Her compelling story is told in a simple, straightforward text, often focusing on episodes and details of interest to young readers, and carefully pointing out still-unresolved ambiguities in the source materials.
School Library Journal: In this lively, well-crafted biography, Stanley and Vennema brush the cobwebs from the popularly held portrait of Cleopatra to reveal a vital, warm, and politically adroit ruler. Lucid writing combines with carefully selected anecdotes, often attributed to the Greek historian Plutarch, to create an engaging narrative.
5. Connections
* Other books about Cleopatra
YOU WOULDN'T WANT TO BE CLEOPATRA! AN EGYPTIAN RULER YOU'D RATHER NOT BE by Jim Pipe
CLEOPATRA: THE LIFE OF AN EGYPTIAN QUEEN by Gary Jeffrey
CLEOPATRA: EGYPTS LAST PHARAOH by Don Nardo
* Other books about Queens
GOOD QUENN BESS: THE STORY OF ELIZABETH I OF ENGLAND by Peter Vennema
TEN QUEENS: PORTRAITS OF WOMEN OF POWER by Milton Meltzer
HATSHEPSUT: THE PRINCESS WHO BECAME KING by Ellen Galford
* Other books about strong women in history
JACKIE KENNEDY ONASSIS: WOMAN OF COURAGE by Catherine Corley Anderson
WHEN I WAS A GIRL by Alison Pollet
FAMOUS WOMEN: FROM NEFERTITI TO DIANA by Richard Dungworth
Stanley, Diane and Peter Vennema. 1994. CLEOPATRA. Ill. by Diane Stanley. New York: Morrow Junior Books. ISBN 0688104142
2. Plot Summary
This beautiful book chronicles the life and times of one of Egypt's most famous rulers, Queen Cleopatra. As ruler, Cleopatra lived in a world of splendor, wealth, and education, for Alexandria was a center of learning. It was Cleopatra's goal to unite the world under Egypt's rule. At the height of her power, she came close to accomplishing her goal. However, Rome, too was a mighty force. In her efforts to unite these two kingdoms, Cleopatra won the affections of two of Rome's most memorable rulers. Both men lost their lives as a result of their love for Cleopatra. In the end, Rome was victorious in defeating the Egyptian army and it is commonly believed that Cleopatra took her own life rather than submit her throne to a foreign ruler.
3. Critical Analysis
The most important aspect of any historical work, even biographies, is accuracy. Diane Stanley begins this book with a preface detailing the time in which Cleopatra ruled. This preface gives the reader a cultural backdrop for the ensuing story and also provides some interesting and uncommon facts about Cleopatra herself. For example, most people believe that Cleopatra lived in the time of the Pharaohs and the building of the great pyramids. In fact, “when she was born, in 69 B.C., the pyramids had already been standing for more than twenty-five hundred years” (Stanley, 1994). Likewise, the assumption that the Queen of Egypt was an Egyptian is also false. “Cleopatra was Macedonian Greek, the last of the Ptolemies (Stanley, 1994). Stanley honestly points out, however, that much of what we know about this famous Queen was written by the Greek historian Plutarch more than 100 years after her death. Therefore, the information contained within these pages is as accurate as historically possible, but may still be influenced by the propaganda and biases of the time.
This story of Cleopatra is written as a simple prose narrative, however, the style captures and brings to life the intelligent and charming ruler. The pages are filled with descriptions, not only of the Queen, but of those who loved her as well as those who hated or even feared her. It is a story about the people who influenced or were influenced by this charismatic leader. This personable style is an essential part of what makes this such a likable and compelling story.
Finally, the illustrations in this work are magnificent. They are detailed, ornate, and the brilliant colors capture the wealth and decadence of the Egyptian court. Stanley's creative use of mosaic tiles is especially appealing. Overall, while the people themselves do not appear lifelike, the illustrations do succeed in bringing to life the wealthy, art-filled world of ancient Egypt.
4. Review Excerpts
Publishers Weekly: This peerless author/artist team makes the captivating... Cleopatra seem astoundingly real
Horn Book Guide: The authors have succeeded brilliantly in bringing the power and magnificence of Cleopatra and her world to life. Her compelling story is told in a simple, straightforward text, often focusing on episodes and details of interest to young readers, and carefully pointing out still-unresolved ambiguities in the source materials.
School Library Journal: In this lively, well-crafted biography, Stanley and Vennema brush the cobwebs from the popularly held portrait of Cleopatra to reveal a vital, warm, and politically adroit ruler. Lucid writing combines with carefully selected anecdotes, often attributed to the Greek historian Plutarch, to create an engaging narrative.
5. Connections
* Other books about Cleopatra
YOU WOULDN'T WANT TO BE CLEOPATRA! AN EGYPTIAN RULER YOU'D RATHER NOT BE by Jim Pipe
CLEOPATRA: THE LIFE OF AN EGYPTIAN QUEEN by Gary Jeffrey
CLEOPATRA: EGYPTS LAST PHARAOH by Don Nardo
* Other books about Queens
GOOD QUENN BESS: THE STORY OF ELIZABETH I OF ENGLAND by Peter Vennema
TEN QUEENS: PORTRAITS OF WOMEN OF POWER by Milton Meltzer
HATSHEPSUT: THE PRINCESS WHO BECAME KING by Ellen Galford
* Other books about strong women in history
JACKIE KENNEDY ONASSIS: WOMAN OF COURAGE by Catherine Corley Anderson
WHEN I WAS A GIRL by Alison Pollet
FAMOUS WOMEN: FROM NEFERTITI TO DIANA by Richard Dungworth
Friday, October 26, 2007
PYRAMIDS & MUMMIES
1. Bibliography
Simon, Seymour. 2003. PYRAMIDS & MUMMIES. San Francisco: Chronicle Books. ISBN 1587172402
2. Plot Summary
This book, intended for readers in grades 2-4, uncovers the mystery behind Egyptian pyramids, mummies, and burial rituals. It explains in detail the architectural masterpieces that are the largest of the Egyptian pyramids, the power and importance of the Pharaohs, and even the science and religious beliefs behind mummification. It also provides a brief introduction to pyramids form other parts of the world including those built centuries later by the Mayan Indians in Mexico.
3. Critical Analysis
This work provides a scientific look at the process of mummification as well as the architectural feat of building the great pyramids, however, it does so in a simplified writing style appropriate for young readers. For example, Simon states that "the process of preserving a body is called embalming" (Simon, 2003). But he does not stop there. He goes on to explain, step by step, the process that the Egyptians used to prepare a Pharaohs body to be entombed. This fascinating and fairly complex process is summed up in a two page spread that makes the information understandable while, at the same time, not talking down to the reader.
The accuracy of this work, while not cited within the work itself, is reliable and completely verifiable by other sources. Simon uses specific dates, names, and statistics within this book, which adds not only interesting details, but also adds credibility to the simple writing. Also, Simon uses comparisons to make the scale of these colossal pyramids understandable to young readers. For example, Simon tells the reader that "the square base is 756 feet on each side. That's about as big as seven city blocks" (Simon, 2003). These comparisons allow the reader to personally connect with the information about these ancient people.
Lastly, every page of text within this work has an accompanying photograph. Pictures include those of pyramids, mummies hieroglyphics, statues, and treasures uncovered from deep within the buried tombs. These photographs are large and detailed, although somewhat monochromatic. Laughingly, everything is the color of sand. These photos, however, do add life to the otherwise bland and simple text.
4. Review Excerpts
Horn Book Guide: An interesting, well-researched text is supported by appealing color photos. The book focuses mainly on Egypt but also mentions the pyramids of the Aztecs and Mayans.
Criticas: Pyramids and Mummies explores the Egyptian Empire using a considerable amount of information and details that will captivate the more experienced readers. The photos are crisp and pertinent.
5. Connections
* Other Books About Egypt
THE PHARAOHS OF ANCIENT EGYPT by Barron's Educational Staff
LAND AND PEOPLE by Salima Ikram
ART AND RELIGION IN ANCIENT EGYPT by Leslie Kaplan
THE GODS AND GODDESSES OF ANCIENT EGYPT by Leonard Fisher
* Other Books About Pyramids
PYRAMIDS AND TEMPLES by Jane Parker
PYRAMIDS: TOMBS FOR ETERNITY by Mildred Pace
PHARAOHS AND PYRAMIDS by Tony Allan
* Other Books About Death Rituals
ENCYCLOPEDIA OF AFTERLIFE BELIEFS AND PHENOMENA by James Lewis
BURYTHE DEAD: TOMBS, CORPSES, MUMMIES, SKELETONS, AND RITUALS by Christopher Sloan
Simon, Seymour. 2003. PYRAMIDS & MUMMIES. San Francisco: Chronicle Books. ISBN 1587172402
2. Plot Summary
This book, intended for readers in grades 2-4, uncovers the mystery behind Egyptian pyramids, mummies, and burial rituals. It explains in detail the architectural masterpieces that are the largest of the Egyptian pyramids, the power and importance of the Pharaohs, and even the science and religious beliefs behind mummification. It also provides a brief introduction to pyramids form other parts of the world including those built centuries later by the Mayan Indians in Mexico.
3. Critical Analysis
This work provides a scientific look at the process of mummification as well as the architectural feat of building the great pyramids, however, it does so in a simplified writing style appropriate for young readers. For example, Simon states that "the process of preserving a body is called embalming" (Simon, 2003). But he does not stop there. He goes on to explain, step by step, the process that the Egyptians used to prepare a Pharaohs body to be entombed. This fascinating and fairly complex process is summed up in a two page spread that makes the information understandable while, at the same time, not talking down to the reader.
The accuracy of this work, while not cited within the work itself, is reliable and completely verifiable by other sources. Simon uses specific dates, names, and statistics within this book, which adds not only interesting details, but also adds credibility to the simple writing. Also, Simon uses comparisons to make the scale of these colossal pyramids understandable to young readers. For example, Simon tells the reader that "the square base is 756 feet on each side. That's about as big as seven city blocks" (Simon, 2003). These comparisons allow the reader to personally connect with the information about these ancient people.
Lastly, every page of text within this work has an accompanying photograph. Pictures include those of pyramids, mummies hieroglyphics, statues, and treasures uncovered from deep within the buried tombs. These photographs are large and detailed, although somewhat monochromatic. Laughingly, everything is the color of sand. These photos, however, do add life to the otherwise bland and simple text.
4. Review Excerpts
Horn Book Guide: An interesting, well-researched text is supported by appealing color photos. The book focuses mainly on Egypt but also mentions the pyramids of the Aztecs and Mayans.
Criticas: Pyramids and Mummies explores the Egyptian Empire using a considerable amount of information and details that will captivate the more experienced readers. The photos are crisp and pertinent.
5. Connections
* Other Books About Egypt
THE PHARAOHS OF ANCIENT EGYPT by Barron's Educational Staff
LAND AND PEOPLE by Salima Ikram
ART AND RELIGION IN ANCIENT EGYPT by Leslie Kaplan
THE GODS AND GODDESSES OF ANCIENT EGYPT by Leonard Fisher
* Other Books About Pyramids
PYRAMIDS AND TEMPLES by Jane Parker
PYRAMIDS: TOMBS FOR ETERNITY by Mildred Pace
PHARAOHS AND PYRAMIDS by Tony Allan
* Other Books About Death Rituals
ENCYCLOPEDIA OF AFTERLIFE BELIEFS AND PHENOMENA by James Lewis
BURYTHE DEAD: TOMBS, CORPSES, MUMMIES, SKELETONS, AND RITUALS by Christopher Sloan
ENCANTADO: PINK DOLPHIN OF THE AMAZON
1. Bibliography
Montgomery, Sy. 2002. ENCANTADO: PINK DOLPHIN OF THE AMAZON. Photographs by Dianne Taylor-Snow. Boston: Houghton Mifflin Company. ISBN 0618131035
2. Plot Summary
This book takes the reader on an amazing journey deep into the Amazon rainforests where s/he encounters deadly insects, prehistoric looking birds, indigenous people, and PINK freshwater dolphins.
3. Critical Analysis
Sy Montgomery has made four separate expeditions into the Amazon to study the elusive pink dolphins. She has also sought out the advice and expertise of many scientists and native peoples to help her better understand these shy creatures. All of her credentials as well as her research techniques are made available to the reader at the end of the book in a section entitled "How This Book Was Researched" (Montgomery, 2002). Overall, while the information presented in this work can, at times, seem too enchanting to be real, the accuracy is both legitimate and verifiable.
Although I recommend reading this book from cover to cover, its organization does permit the reader to pick and choose only certain chapters to read. There are chapters on the pink dolphins themselves, on myths surrounding the dolphins, on other exotic creatures of the Amazon, as well as on how to help preserve this lush tropical rainforest. Each of the chapters may be read independently, however, there is no table of contents included.
The writing style of this work is very fluid and extremely personal. It is quite easy to imagine yourself in the canoe right next to Sy Montgomery, peering into the murky water of the Amazon River. The personalized nature of this work is created most dramatically by the creative use of second person prose. For example, the first line of the book begins with, "You're traveling to a world that is full of water" (Montgomery, 2002). This personal tour of the jungles of the Amazon continues throughout the rest of the book.
Finally, accompanying Sy on her journey was Dianne Taylor-Snow, who was able to capture the amazing photographs printed in this book. Some are small snapshots of people and exotic animals, while others are full spread views of amazing scenery. Despite their size, however, all of the photos transport the reader to an exotic world far away. The pictures of the pink dolphin (although the one photographed is not while but held in captivity in Pittsburgh) add credibility to this seemingly unbelievable tale. Also, although they a meant to accompany and enhance the text, simply looking at the photos and reading the cations tells a fascinating story y themselves.
4. Review Excerpts
Horn Book Magazine: While she is successful in showing that researchable questions are everywhere, her questions about the pink dolphins are less focused, and her narrative is driven more by her quest to see a dolphin than to solve a specific scientific challenge. However, this is more than made up for by remarkable descriptions and color photographs of the Amazon rainforest and its inhabitants, human and nonhuman.
School Library Journal: A stimulating text and vibrant, full-color photographs entice readers on this trip down the Amazon to meet these freshwater rain-forest creatures. Written in second person and in a light, conversational tone, the narrative evokes a magical environment as readers accompany the author and a guide on a voyage to investigate these little-known animals.
Kirkus Review: She writes with a contagious sense of wonder-mixed with frustration, for though she does find dolphins, all she's able to see of them are occasional flashes on the river's surface. Children will get a better look at this bright pink, lumpy-looking creature, as Taylor-Snow intersperses atmospheric, crisply clear on-site color photos with nose-to-nose shots of Chuckles, a resident of the Pittsburgh Zoo and the only pink dolphin in captivity in North America.
5. Connections
* Other Books by Sy Montgomery
THE MAN-EATING TIGERS OF SUNDARBANS
THE SNAKE SCIENTIST
JOURNEY OF THE PINK DOLPHINS: AN AMAZON QUEST
* Other Books About the Amazon
THE AMAZON by Julia Waterlow
THE GREAT KAPOK TREE by Lynne Cherry
THE SHAMAN'S APPRENTICE: A TALE OF THE AMAZON RAINFOREST by Lynne Cherry and Mark Plotkin
* Other Books About Whales and Dolphins
DOLPHIN MAN: EXPLORING THE WORLD OF DOLPHINS by Lawrence Pringle
WHALES AND DOLPHINS by Anton Ericson
RESCUE OF THE STRANDED WHALES by Ken Mallory and Andrea Conley
LOOKING AT DOLPHINS AND PORPOISES by Dorothy Hinshaw Patent
Montgomery, Sy. 2002. ENCANTADO: PINK DOLPHIN OF THE AMAZON. Photographs by Dianne Taylor-Snow. Boston: Houghton Mifflin Company. ISBN 0618131035
2. Plot Summary
This book takes the reader on an amazing journey deep into the Amazon rainforests where s/he encounters deadly insects, prehistoric looking birds, indigenous people, and PINK freshwater dolphins.
3. Critical Analysis
Sy Montgomery has made four separate expeditions into the Amazon to study the elusive pink dolphins. She has also sought out the advice and expertise of many scientists and native peoples to help her better understand these shy creatures. All of her credentials as well as her research techniques are made available to the reader at the end of the book in a section entitled "How This Book Was Researched" (Montgomery, 2002). Overall, while the information presented in this work can, at times, seem too enchanting to be real, the accuracy is both legitimate and verifiable.
Although I recommend reading this book from cover to cover, its organization does permit the reader to pick and choose only certain chapters to read. There are chapters on the pink dolphins themselves, on myths surrounding the dolphins, on other exotic creatures of the Amazon, as well as on how to help preserve this lush tropical rainforest. Each of the chapters may be read independently, however, there is no table of contents included.
The writing style of this work is very fluid and extremely personal. It is quite easy to imagine yourself in the canoe right next to Sy Montgomery, peering into the murky water of the Amazon River. The personalized nature of this work is created most dramatically by the creative use of second person prose. For example, the first line of the book begins with, "You're traveling to a world that is full of water" (Montgomery, 2002). This personal tour of the jungles of the Amazon continues throughout the rest of the book.
Finally, accompanying Sy on her journey was Dianne Taylor-Snow, who was able to capture the amazing photographs printed in this book. Some are small snapshots of people and exotic animals, while others are full spread views of amazing scenery. Despite their size, however, all of the photos transport the reader to an exotic world far away. The pictures of the pink dolphin (although the one photographed is not while but held in captivity in Pittsburgh) add credibility to this seemingly unbelievable tale. Also, although they a meant to accompany and enhance the text, simply looking at the photos and reading the cations tells a fascinating story y themselves.
4. Review Excerpts
Horn Book Magazine: While she is successful in showing that researchable questions are everywhere, her questions about the pink dolphins are less focused, and her narrative is driven more by her quest to see a dolphin than to solve a specific scientific challenge. However, this is more than made up for by remarkable descriptions and color photographs of the Amazon rainforest and its inhabitants, human and nonhuman.
School Library Journal: A stimulating text and vibrant, full-color photographs entice readers on this trip down the Amazon to meet these freshwater rain-forest creatures. Written in second person and in a light, conversational tone, the narrative evokes a magical environment as readers accompany the author and a guide on a voyage to investigate these little-known animals.
Kirkus Review: She writes with a contagious sense of wonder-mixed with frustration, for though she does find dolphins, all she's able to see of them are occasional flashes on the river's surface. Children will get a better look at this bright pink, lumpy-looking creature, as Taylor-Snow intersperses atmospheric, crisply clear on-site color photos with nose-to-nose shots of Chuckles, a resident of the Pittsburgh Zoo and the only pink dolphin in captivity in North America.
5. Connections
* Other Books by Sy Montgomery
THE MAN-EATING TIGERS OF SUNDARBANS
THE SNAKE SCIENTIST
JOURNEY OF THE PINK DOLPHINS: AN AMAZON QUEST
* Other Books About the Amazon
THE AMAZON by Julia Waterlow
THE GREAT KAPOK TREE by Lynne Cherry
THE SHAMAN'S APPRENTICE: A TALE OF THE AMAZON RAINFOREST by Lynne Cherry and Mark Plotkin
* Other Books About Whales and Dolphins
DOLPHIN MAN: EXPLORING THE WORLD OF DOLPHINS by Lawrence Pringle
WHALES AND DOLPHINS by Anton Ericson
RESCUE OF THE STRANDED WHALES by Ken Mallory and Andrea Conley
LOOKING AT DOLPHINS AND PORPOISES by Dorothy Hinshaw Patent
SHIPWRECK AT THE BOTTOM OF THE WORLD: THE EXTRAORDINARY ADVENTURE OF SHACKLETON AND THE ENDURANCE
1. Bibliography
Armstrong, Jennifer. 1998. SHIPWRECK AT THE BOTTOM OF THE WORLD: THE EXTRAORDINARY ADVENTURE OF SHACKLETON AND THE ENDURANCE. New York: Crown Publishers. ISBN 0517800144
2. Plot Summary
This book chronicles the amazing and perilous Antarctic expedition of Sir Ernest Shackleton, Captain of the Endurance, and his 28 man crew. These brave men set out to be the first ever to cross the barren wasteland of Antarctica on foot. However, when their ship becomes trapped in the ice, their already dangerous excursion becomes a life or death race back to civilization. After being shipwrecked and trapped on the ice for eighteen months, Shackleton makes a daring rescue mission to South Georgia Island in search of help for his homesick, frostbitten, dying men. In the end, the Captain and the full 28 man crew were all saved despite what seemed many times to be insurmountable odds.
3. Critical Analysis
The most important aspect of any non-fiction work is accuracy. This book was written based on the personal accounts of the men who survived this perilous journey. Armstrong has carefully cited books and diaries written by several of the men including Shackleton, Worsley, McNeish, Hurley, and many others, as well as newspaper and journal articles written at the time of this amazing feat. Also, she has included maps of Antarctica as well as blueprints of the Endurance. Armstrong has provided evidence of vast amounts of research as well as venues for further reading for those interested in learning more.
This work is stylistically well written and appropriate for a young adult audience. It is easy to read, yet at the same time, the gruesome and often cruel reality of the situation is always present. For example, Armstrong does not neglect to tell us that the men had to kill their sled dogs for food or that the stowaway, Blackborrow, had to have his toes amputated because of frostbite. She begins the book by asking the reader to "imagine yourself in the most hostile place on earth" (Armstrong, 1998). She invites the reader to do more than read about this adventure, she wants the reader to witness it.
Finally, and this is perhaps my favorite part of the whole book, are the photographs. The book contains prints of many of the original photographs taken on the journey by Frank Hurley in 1915-1916. These candid photos add realism to this otherwise unbelievable tale as they illustrate, in stark black and white images, the dire situation that these men survived.
4. Review Excerpts
School Library Journal: The text moves from diary entries to explanations of how to read the sun, and the descriptions of the terrain and weather are superb. This is a very effective presentation of not only how the disaster occurred, but of the toll it took on the crew and how they rose to the challenge
Horn Book Guide: Her captivating, complete account, which identifies and tracks practically every crew member and liberally employs quotes from crew diaries, will find an audience with the detail-oriented, want-to-know-it-all kind of reader.
Publisher's Weekly: Armstrong's absorbing storytelling, illustrated with dramatic black-and-white photographs, make this an enthralling adventure
5. Connections
* Other Books About Shackleton and The Endurance
THE SHACKLETON EXPEDITION by Jil Fine
SIR ERNEST SHACKLETON: BY ENDURANCE WE CONQUER by Patricia Calvert
ICE STORY: SHACKLETON'S LOST EXPEDITION by Elizabeth Kimmel
* Other Books About Antarctica
HERE IS ANTARCTICA by Madeleine Dunphy
SOUTH POLE PENGUINS by Amanda Lumry
DISCOVERING ANTARCTICA: PLANTS AND ANIMALS by June Loves
WILDLIFE IN ANTARCTICA by Mary Adrian
* Other Books About Survival
AMAZING STORIES OF SURVIVAL by People Magazine Staff
ADRENALINE HIGH: EXTREME OUTDOOR SURVIVAL by Larry Mueller
THE WORLD'S MOST AMAZING SURVIVAL STORIES by Tim O'Shei
Armstrong, Jennifer. 1998. SHIPWRECK AT THE BOTTOM OF THE WORLD: THE EXTRAORDINARY ADVENTURE OF SHACKLETON AND THE ENDURANCE. New York: Crown Publishers. ISBN 0517800144
2. Plot Summary
This book chronicles the amazing and perilous Antarctic expedition of Sir Ernest Shackleton, Captain of the Endurance, and his 28 man crew. These brave men set out to be the first ever to cross the barren wasteland of Antarctica on foot. However, when their ship becomes trapped in the ice, their already dangerous excursion becomes a life or death race back to civilization. After being shipwrecked and trapped on the ice for eighteen months, Shackleton makes a daring rescue mission to South Georgia Island in search of help for his homesick, frostbitten, dying men. In the end, the Captain and the full 28 man crew were all saved despite what seemed many times to be insurmountable odds.
3. Critical Analysis
The most important aspect of any non-fiction work is accuracy. This book was written based on the personal accounts of the men who survived this perilous journey. Armstrong has carefully cited books and diaries written by several of the men including Shackleton, Worsley, McNeish, Hurley, and many others, as well as newspaper and journal articles written at the time of this amazing feat. Also, she has included maps of Antarctica as well as blueprints of the Endurance. Armstrong has provided evidence of vast amounts of research as well as venues for further reading for those interested in learning more.
This work is stylistically well written and appropriate for a young adult audience. It is easy to read, yet at the same time, the gruesome and often cruel reality of the situation is always present. For example, Armstrong does not neglect to tell us that the men had to kill their sled dogs for food or that the stowaway, Blackborrow, had to have his toes amputated because of frostbite. She begins the book by asking the reader to "imagine yourself in the most hostile place on earth" (Armstrong, 1998). She invites the reader to do more than read about this adventure, she wants the reader to witness it.
Finally, and this is perhaps my favorite part of the whole book, are the photographs. The book contains prints of many of the original photographs taken on the journey by Frank Hurley in 1915-1916. These candid photos add realism to this otherwise unbelievable tale as they illustrate, in stark black and white images, the dire situation that these men survived.
4. Review Excerpts
School Library Journal: The text moves from diary entries to explanations of how to read the sun, and the descriptions of the terrain and weather are superb. This is a very effective presentation of not only how the disaster occurred, but of the toll it took on the crew and how they rose to the challenge
Horn Book Guide: Her captivating, complete account, which identifies and tracks practically every crew member and liberally employs quotes from crew diaries, will find an audience with the detail-oriented, want-to-know-it-all kind of reader.
Publisher's Weekly: Armstrong's absorbing storytelling, illustrated with dramatic black-and-white photographs, make this an enthralling adventure
5. Connections
* Other Books About Shackleton and The Endurance
THE SHACKLETON EXPEDITION by Jil Fine
SIR ERNEST SHACKLETON: BY ENDURANCE WE CONQUER by Patricia Calvert
ICE STORY: SHACKLETON'S LOST EXPEDITION by Elizabeth Kimmel
* Other Books About Antarctica
HERE IS ANTARCTICA by Madeleine Dunphy
SOUTH POLE PENGUINS by Amanda Lumry
DISCOVERING ANTARCTICA: PLANTS AND ANIMALS by June Loves
WILDLIFE IN ANTARCTICA by Mary Adrian
* Other Books About Survival
AMAZING STORIES OF SURVIVAL by People Magazine Staff
ADRENALINE HIGH: EXTREME OUTDOOR SURVIVAL by Larry Mueller
THE WORLD'S MOST AMAZING SURVIVAL STORIES by Tim O'Shei
Thursday, October 11, 2007
MY MAN BLUE
1. Bibliography
Grimes, Nikki. 1999. MY MAN BLUE. Ill. by Jerome Lagarrigue. New York: Dial Books. ISBN 0803723261
2. Plot Summary
This book is a collection of poetry describing the relationship between a boy with no father who befriends a man who lost his young son to street violence. While they are somewhat leery of each other at first, they soon begin to fill the voids in each others' lives and create an unbreakable bond.
3. Critical Analysis
This collection of poetry is contemporary and edgy as it describes the life of a young African American boy who, with no father in his life, has to be the man of the house. His friend, Blue, becomes his father figure and guides him and teaches him how to survive without giving in to the temptation of the streets.
The overall tone of the collection is hopeful as the boy, Damon, finds a friend in Blue, who helps him and keeps him safe. At the same time, the poetry is somewhat didactic without being overtly preachy. Throughout the book, Blue teaches Damon life lessons that we, as readers, learn as well. For example, in "The Plan", Grimes says, "What makes somebody/ Want to shoot to kill?/ 'It's hate,' says Blue./ 'And fear. One/ Holds the gun/ while the other/ Pulls the trigger.'" (Grimes, 1999). Also, in "One-on-One" Grimes tells us that "While some/ Aim guns./ We hit/ The hoops/ And shoot/ For fun." (Grimes, 1999). Lastly, in "Class Bully" we learn that "It's guys/ who don't hit girls' Who're strong' (Grime, 1999). All of these are examples of life lessons taught through Grimes' poetry
The illustrations in this collection were created using acrylic paint on Canson paper. The pictures are awash with vivid colors, drawing the eye to the page. Both the people and the surrounding scenery are distinct enough to be recognized at a glance, but not so distinct that they look like any particular person or place. This enables the reader to connect to the poetry on a more personal note, envisioning themselves or people they know within the illustrations. Overall, the collection is greatly enhanced by the illustrations which help to tell the story and allow the reader to better visualize the poetic contents.
4. Review Excerpts
Booklist: In a simple, lyrical series of poems, Grimes speaks in the voice of Damon, a child in Harlem, whose "missing daddy's left a hole" and who finds a mentor in Blue, who lost a son to the streets. Lagarrigue's strong realistic acrylic paintings show the poignant connection between the needy child and the gentle, heavily built man in the dangerous neighborhood, where wedges of blue sky are sandwiched in between the roofs. A great picture book for older readers.
Horn Book Guide: The poems are accessible and filled with imagery, and the intergenerational friendship is believable, though Damon sometimes sounds older than he is. The unsentimental acrylic paintings aptly reflect the poems.
Publisher's Weekly: Though each of these accomplished poems could easily stand alone, together they form an enticing story arc. The deep-hued acrylic paintings have a rough, slightly smudgy texture, and they demonstrate a remarkable color sense. Unexpected fields of sharp blues and greens blend into the gritty cityscapes, and blocks of text are set against canvases thinly brushed with paint in palettes that complement the facing illustration. The art creates an ideal setting for the text: the look is inescapably urban but also subtly lyrical.
5. Connections
* Other poetry collections by Nikki Grimes
THANKS A MILLION
WHEN GORILLA GOES WALKING
AT JERUSALEM'S GATE
* Other Urban Poets for kids
Walter Dean Myers
Holly Black
Grimes, Nikki. 1999. MY MAN BLUE. Ill. by Jerome Lagarrigue. New York: Dial Books. ISBN 0803723261
2. Plot Summary
This book is a collection of poetry describing the relationship between a boy with no father who befriends a man who lost his young son to street violence. While they are somewhat leery of each other at first, they soon begin to fill the voids in each others' lives and create an unbreakable bond.
3. Critical Analysis
This collection of poetry is contemporary and edgy as it describes the life of a young African American boy who, with no father in his life, has to be the man of the house. His friend, Blue, becomes his father figure and guides him and teaches him how to survive without giving in to the temptation of the streets.
The overall tone of the collection is hopeful as the boy, Damon, finds a friend in Blue, who helps him and keeps him safe. At the same time, the poetry is somewhat didactic without being overtly preachy. Throughout the book, Blue teaches Damon life lessons that we, as readers, learn as well. For example, in "The Plan", Grimes says, "What makes somebody/ Want to shoot to kill?/ 'It's hate,' says Blue./ 'And fear. One/ Holds the gun/ while the other/ Pulls the trigger.'" (Grimes, 1999). Also, in "One-on-One" Grimes tells us that "While some/ Aim guns./ We hit/ The hoops/ And shoot/ For fun." (Grimes, 1999). Lastly, in "Class Bully" we learn that "It's guys/ who don't hit girls' Who're strong' (Grime, 1999). All of these are examples of life lessons taught through Grimes' poetry
The illustrations in this collection were created using acrylic paint on Canson paper. The pictures are awash with vivid colors, drawing the eye to the page. Both the people and the surrounding scenery are distinct enough to be recognized at a glance, but not so distinct that they look like any particular person or place. This enables the reader to connect to the poetry on a more personal note, envisioning themselves or people they know within the illustrations. Overall, the collection is greatly enhanced by the illustrations which help to tell the story and allow the reader to better visualize the poetic contents.
4. Review Excerpts
Booklist: In a simple, lyrical series of poems, Grimes speaks in the voice of Damon, a child in Harlem, whose "missing daddy's left a hole" and who finds a mentor in Blue, who lost a son to the streets. Lagarrigue's strong realistic acrylic paintings show the poignant connection between the needy child and the gentle, heavily built man in the dangerous neighborhood, where wedges of blue sky are sandwiched in between the roofs. A great picture book for older readers.
Horn Book Guide: The poems are accessible and filled with imagery, and the intergenerational friendship is believable, though Damon sometimes sounds older than he is. The unsentimental acrylic paintings aptly reflect the poems.
Publisher's Weekly: Though each of these accomplished poems could easily stand alone, together they form an enticing story arc. The deep-hued acrylic paintings have a rough, slightly smudgy texture, and they demonstrate a remarkable color sense. Unexpected fields of sharp blues and greens blend into the gritty cityscapes, and blocks of text are set against canvases thinly brushed with paint in palettes that complement the facing illustration. The art creates an ideal setting for the text: the look is inescapably urban but also subtly lyrical.
5. Connections
* Other poetry collections by Nikki Grimes
THANKS A MILLION
WHEN GORILLA GOES WALKING
AT JERUSALEM'S GATE
* Other Urban Poets for kids
Walter Dean Myers
Holly Black
ZOO'S WHO
1. Bibliography
Florian, Douglas. 2005. ZOO'S WHO. Ill. by Douglas Florian. New York: Harcort Inc. ISBN 0152046399
2. Plot Summary
This book is a collection of short poems that use rhyme, alliteration, wordplay, as well as other literary techniques to create silly descriptions of uncommon animals that one might encounter at a zoo.
3. Critical Analysis
In this collection, Douglas Florian uses an array of literary techniques to create fun animal poems suitable for young children. For example, in "The Penguin" Florian coins new terms such as "penginsulation", "penguinter" and "penguinsome". These made up, silly words describe a penguin and its behavior while at the same time creating an entertaining poem. In the poem "The Sharks", Florian uses alliteration to make this poem appealing. The repeated "s" sound throughout the poem adds intensity to the text as well as makes it a cohesive and memorable work. Finally, in the poem "The Snake". Florian creates a visual effect by shaping the final line of the piece in the form of a snake. All of these techniques, as well as others, create visually as well as aurally stimulating poetry intended to entertain young readers.
The illustrations in this book are flat, two dimensional depictions of the beasts described in the poetry. They consist of dark, muted earth tones with the name of the animal hidden within the background of the drawing. Overall, while the illustrations are nice, their somber tones seem at odds with the playful quality of the poetry it is meant to mirror. I find that the combination of the two (poetry and illustration) does not mix well and , therefore, creates a sense of dissonance among the pages.
4. Review Excerpts
Horn Book: The twenty-one poems in Florian's latest collection are as fresh, imaginative, and witty as ever. The illustrations are something of a departure. Made with "watercolor, gouache, colored pencils, inks, tin foil, candy wrappers, shredded papers, stencils...and much collage on primed brown paper bags," the large, square pictures frequently use rubber-stamped letters to extend the wit of the poems.
Booklist: Florian continues his series of books that deal with animal life in all its permutations. However, children will need a certain sensibility to understand the wordplay. The more astute the reader, the better the time he or she will have with this. But there are joys here for those who take the poems and pictures on face value as well.
5. Connections
* Other books by Douglas Florian
OMNIBEASTS: ANIMAL POEMS AND PAINTINGS
BOW WOW MEOW MEOW: IT'S RHYMING CATS AND DOGS
LIZARDS, FROGS, AND POLLIWOGS
A PIG IS BIG
* Other authors of animal poetry for children
Jane Yolen
Valerie Worth
Rob Jackson
Susan K. Mitchell
Florian, Douglas. 2005. ZOO'S WHO. Ill. by Douglas Florian. New York: Harcort Inc. ISBN 0152046399
2. Plot Summary
This book is a collection of short poems that use rhyme, alliteration, wordplay, as well as other literary techniques to create silly descriptions of uncommon animals that one might encounter at a zoo.
3. Critical Analysis
In this collection, Douglas Florian uses an array of literary techniques to create fun animal poems suitable for young children. For example, in "The Penguin" Florian coins new terms such as "penginsulation", "penguinter" and "penguinsome". These made up, silly words describe a penguin and its behavior while at the same time creating an entertaining poem. In the poem "The Sharks", Florian uses alliteration to make this poem appealing. The repeated "s" sound throughout the poem adds intensity to the text as well as makes it a cohesive and memorable work. Finally, in the poem "The Snake". Florian creates a visual effect by shaping the final line of the piece in the form of a snake. All of these techniques, as well as others, create visually as well as aurally stimulating poetry intended to entertain young readers.
The illustrations in this book are flat, two dimensional depictions of the beasts described in the poetry. They consist of dark, muted earth tones with the name of the animal hidden within the background of the drawing. Overall, while the illustrations are nice, their somber tones seem at odds with the playful quality of the poetry it is meant to mirror. I find that the combination of the two (poetry and illustration) does not mix well and , therefore, creates a sense of dissonance among the pages.
4. Review Excerpts
Horn Book: The twenty-one poems in Florian's latest collection are as fresh, imaginative, and witty as ever. The illustrations are something of a departure. Made with "watercolor, gouache, colored pencils, inks, tin foil, candy wrappers, shredded papers, stencils...and much collage on primed brown paper bags," the large, square pictures frequently use rubber-stamped letters to extend the wit of the poems.
Booklist: Florian continues his series of books that deal with animal life in all its permutations. However, children will need a certain sensibility to understand the wordplay. The more astute the reader, the better the time he or she will have with this. But there are joys here for those who take the poems and pictures on face value as well.
5. Connections
* Other books by Douglas Florian
OMNIBEASTS: ANIMAL POEMS AND PAINTINGS
BOW WOW MEOW MEOW: IT'S RHYMING CATS AND DOGS
LIZARDS, FROGS, AND POLLIWOGS
A PIG IS BIG
* Other authors of animal poetry for children
Jane Yolen
Valerie Worth
Rob Jackson
Susan K. Mitchell
STOP PRETENDING:WHAT HAPPENED WHEN MY BIG SISTER WENT CRAZY
1. Bibliography
Sones, Sonya. 1999. STOP PRETENDING:WHAT HAPPENED WHEN MY BIG SISTER WENT CRAZY. New York: HarperCollins Publishers. ISBN 0060283874
2. Plot Summary
This book, Sonya Sones' first published work, is a collection of poems, although commonly referred to as a verse novel, that explains the emotional turmoil endured by the narrator after her older sister has a nervous breakdown and is committed to a mental hospital. The book begins with the sister's breakdown and travels through the narrator's feelings of guilt, embarrassment, anger, fear, grief, and eventual acceptance of her sister's illness. Although the story is fictionalized, it is based on the author's own experience with a big sister who was diagnosed as manic depressive, or bipolar, as the disease is now called.
3. Critical Analysis
This collection of free verse poetry runs the gamut of human emotions. Essentially, Sones covers the seven stages of grief (disbelief, denial, bargaining, guilt, anger, depression, and acceptance) as her main character, Cookie, loses her sister, not to death but to mental illness. Just as the stages of grief progress and change over time, so too do the poems within the book. The tone of the beginning poems is dark and full of despair. For example, in "Three A.M. That Same Night" Cookie says, "I'm huddled on my bed,/ rocking in my quilt,/ wishing I could fall asleep/ and end this nightmare" (Sones, 1999). Clearly Cookie is having a great deal of difficulty dealing with her sister's sudden breakdown. Also, the poems at the beginning of the book have shorter lines and more spaces creating a fast paced, almost frantic feeling that mimics Cookie's emotions at the time.
This frantic feel and dark tone at the beginning, however, is a stark contrast to the longer lines, slower pace, and hopeful tone of the ending poems. In "Tonight", Cookie says, "And tonight,/ for once,/ it feels okay/ just to be three" (Sones, 1999). Obviously, by the change on tone and structure of these poems, we know that Cookie has found some measure of peace.
The intense emotions found within these pages will fascinate young readers who will be better able to relate to Cookie's inability to understand her own emotions. However, the content of the poems as well as the free verse form in which they are written make this book better suited for older adolescent readers rather than beginning readers. On a personal note, I greatly enjoyed reading this book both for its challenging content and its creative style.
4. Review Excerpts
School Library Journal: An unpretentious, accessible book that could provide entry points for a discussion about mental illness-its stigma, its realities, and its affect on family members. The simply crafted but deeply felt poems reflect her thoughts, fears, hopes, and dreams during that troubling time.
Booklist: Based on Sones' own family experience, this debut novel shows the capacity of poetry to record the personal and translate it into the universal.
Kirkus Reviews: Individually, the poems appear simple and unremarkable, snapshot portraits of two sisters, a family, unfaithful friends, and a sweet first love. Collected, they take on life and movement, the individual frames of a movie that in the unspooling become animated, telling a compelling tale and presenting a painful passage through young adolescence.
Connections:
* Other books by Sonya Sones
WHAT MY MOTHER DOESN'T KNOW
NECESSARY NOISE: STORIES ABOUT OUR FAMILIES AS THEY REALLY ARE
ONE OF THOSE HIDEOUS BOOKS WHERE THE MOTHER DIES
* Other authors who write about Illness and Loss
Lurlene McDaniel
Adele Griffin
Jordan Sonnenblick
Donna Jo Napoli
Sones, Sonya. 1999. STOP PRETENDING:WHAT HAPPENED WHEN MY BIG SISTER WENT CRAZY. New York: HarperCollins Publishers. ISBN 0060283874
2. Plot Summary
This book, Sonya Sones' first published work, is a collection of poems, although commonly referred to as a verse novel, that explains the emotional turmoil endured by the narrator after her older sister has a nervous breakdown and is committed to a mental hospital. The book begins with the sister's breakdown and travels through the narrator's feelings of guilt, embarrassment, anger, fear, grief, and eventual acceptance of her sister's illness. Although the story is fictionalized, it is based on the author's own experience with a big sister who was diagnosed as manic depressive, or bipolar, as the disease is now called.
3. Critical Analysis
This collection of free verse poetry runs the gamut of human emotions. Essentially, Sones covers the seven stages of grief (disbelief, denial, bargaining, guilt, anger, depression, and acceptance) as her main character, Cookie, loses her sister, not to death but to mental illness. Just as the stages of grief progress and change over time, so too do the poems within the book. The tone of the beginning poems is dark and full of despair. For example, in "Three A.M. That Same Night" Cookie says, "I'm huddled on my bed,/ rocking in my quilt,/ wishing I could fall asleep/ and end this nightmare" (Sones, 1999). Clearly Cookie is having a great deal of difficulty dealing with her sister's sudden breakdown. Also, the poems at the beginning of the book have shorter lines and more spaces creating a fast paced, almost frantic feeling that mimics Cookie's emotions at the time.
This frantic feel and dark tone at the beginning, however, is a stark contrast to the longer lines, slower pace, and hopeful tone of the ending poems. In "Tonight", Cookie says, "And tonight,/ for once,/ it feels okay/ just to be three" (Sones, 1999). Obviously, by the change on tone and structure of these poems, we know that Cookie has found some measure of peace.
The intense emotions found within these pages will fascinate young readers who will be better able to relate to Cookie's inability to understand her own emotions. However, the content of the poems as well as the free verse form in which they are written make this book better suited for older adolescent readers rather than beginning readers. On a personal note, I greatly enjoyed reading this book both for its challenging content and its creative style.
4. Review Excerpts
School Library Journal: An unpretentious, accessible book that could provide entry points for a discussion about mental illness-its stigma, its realities, and its affect on family members. The simply crafted but deeply felt poems reflect her thoughts, fears, hopes, and dreams during that troubling time.
Booklist: Based on Sones' own family experience, this debut novel shows the capacity of poetry to record the personal and translate it into the universal.
Kirkus Reviews: Individually, the poems appear simple and unremarkable, snapshot portraits of two sisters, a family, unfaithful friends, and a sweet first love. Collected, they take on life and movement, the individual frames of a movie that in the unspooling become animated, telling a compelling tale and presenting a painful passage through young adolescence.
Connections:
* Other books by Sonya Sones
WHAT MY MOTHER DOESN'T KNOW
NECESSARY NOISE: STORIES ABOUT OUR FAMILIES AS THEY REALLY ARE
ONE OF THOSE HIDEOUS BOOKS WHERE THE MOTHER DIES
* Other authors who write about Illness and Loss
Lurlene McDaniel
Adele Griffin
Jordan Sonnenblick
Donna Jo Napoli
Thursday, September 27, 2007
PORCH LIES: TALES OF SLICKSTERS, TRICKSTERS, AND OTHER WILY CHARACTERS
1. Bibliographic
McKissack, Patricia. 2006. PORCH LIES: TALES OF SLICKSTERS, TRICKSTERS, AND OTHER WIY CHARACTERS. Ill.by Andre Carrilho. New York, New York: Random House. ISBN 037593619X
2. Plot Summary
This book is a collection of "stories, or porch lies, [...] tales of humor and exaggeration told to listeners of all ages" (McKissack, X). According to the author's note, these are all tales that she heard as a child and has only now written them down with a few modifications. The characters are humorous, clever, and overall, larger than life. The tales themselves are reminiscent of other tall tales found in other cultures.
3. Critical Analysis
This collection, while quite humorous, is also an important multicultural work. These stories, or porch lies, serve as a tool for preserving the African American culture. In these tales, African American protagonists use their wits to out-smart their adversaries and, no matter what the challenge, end up on top. At the same time, these stories are also didactic in nature as they impress upon the reader the importance of knowledge, hard work, and perseverance.
While the stories are multicultural, they also may be classified as a form of traditional literature. The tales began in oral form with no known originator. Also, the characters are symbolic of good and evil and the plots are simple, direct, and episodic. For example, in "The Devil's Guitar", Bukka Black, the protagonist, represents good while evil is represented by the Devil himself. We learn very little about Bukka as the story progresses other than that he is a musician that wants nothing more than fame and fortune. However, in the end he chooses to go home to his mother rather than sell his soul to the Devil in exchange for riches. In short, these humorous folktales are examples of multicultural tall tales.
The black and white illustrations in this collection are few but effective. The use of light versus shadow as well as the disproportionate nature of the characters make these people seem imaginary rather than life-like. This mimics the feel of the text in which the characters are described in ways that are very symbolic rather than realistic.
4. Review Excerpts
School Library Journal- "These ten literate stories make for great leisure reading and knowing chuckles."
Horn Book - "Grandly melodramatic black and white illustrations capture the mood of the stories and the flavor of the period."
Booklist - "the nine original tales in this uproarious collection draw on an African American oral tradition and blend history and legend with sly humor, creepy horror, villainous characters, and wild farce."
5. Connections
- Discuss the examples of African American culture found in the story
* Spirituals
* food
* family structure
- Other multicultural collections
*PIO PEEP! TRADITIONAL SPANIST NURSERY RHYMES collected by Alma Flor Ada and Isabel Campoy
*MOONBEAMS, DUMPLINGS & DRAGON BOATS: A TREASURY OF CHINESE HOLIDAY TALES, ACTIVITIES & RECIPES collected y Nina Simonds and Leslie Swartz
McKissack, Patricia. 2006. PORCH LIES: TALES OF SLICKSTERS, TRICKSTERS, AND OTHER WIY CHARACTERS. Ill.by Andre Carrilho. New York, New York: Random House. ISBN 037593619X
2. Plot Summary
This book is a collection of "stories, or porch lies, [...] tales of humor and exaggeration told to listeners of all ages" (McKissack, X). According to the author's note, these are all tales that she heard as a child and has only now written them down with a few modifications. The characters are humorous, clever, and overall, larger than life. The tales themselves are reminiscent of other tall tales found in other cultures.
3. Critical Analysis
This collection, while quite humorous, is also an important multicultural work. These stories, or porch lies, serve as a tool for preserving the African American culture. In these tales, African American protagonists use their wits to out-smart their adversaries and, no matter what the challenge, end up on top. At the same time, these stories are also didactic in nature as they impress upon the reader the importance of knowledge, hard work, and perseverance.
While the stories are multicultural, they also may be classified as a form of traditional literature. The tales began in oral form with no known originator. Also, the characters are symbolic of good and evil and the plots are simple, direct, and episodic. For example, in "The Devil's Guitar", Bukka Black, the protagonist, represents good while evil is represented by the Devil himself. We learn very little about Bukka as the story progresses other than that he is a musician that wants nothing more than fame and fortune. However, in the end he chooses to go home to his mother rather than sell his soul to the Devil in exchange for riches. In short, these humorous folktales are examples of multicultural tall tales.
The black and white illustrations in this collection are few but effective. The use of light versus shadow as well as the disproportionate nature of the characters make these people seem imaginary rather than life-like. This mimics the feel of the text in which the characters are described in ways that are very symbolic rather than realistic.
4. Review Excerpts
School Library Journal- "These ten literate stories make for great leisure reading and knowing chuckles."
Horn Book - "Grandly melodramatic black and white illustrations capture the mood of the stories and the flavor of the period."
Booklist - "the nine original tales in this uproarious collection draw on an African American oral tradition and blend history and legend with sly humor, creepy horror, villainous characters, and wild farce."
5. Connections
- Discuss the examples of African American culture found in the story
* Spirituals
* food
* family structure
- Other multicultural collections
*PIO PEEP! TRADITIONAL SPANIST NURSERY RHYMES collected by Alma Flor Ada and Isabel Campoy
*MOONBEAMS, DUMPLINGS & DRAGON BOATS: A TREASURY OF CHINESE HOLIDAY TALES, ACTIVITIES & RECIPES collected y Nina Simonds and Leslie Swartz
THE LOST CHILDREN: THE BOYS WHO WERE NEGLECTED
1. Bibliography
Goble, Paul. 1993. THE LOST CHILDREN: THE BOYS WHO WERE NEGLECTED. Ill. by Paul Goble. New York, New York: Bradbury Press. ISBN 0027365557
2. Plot Summary
This book is based on a Blackfoot Indian myth that explains the origins of the Pleiades stars. According to the myth, there were six Blackfoot children who were orphaned and alone. The children had little to eat, old discarded clothes, and no home in which to sleep at night. Instead of caring for these unfortunate youths, the village people mistreated them and laughed at their misfortune. One day, the kids decided to leave their misery behind and become stars. They were welcomed to the heavens by the Moon Woman and Sun Man who punished the tribe by causing a drought. The myth ends with a moral lesson by saying, "all little children are gifts from God."
3. Critical Analysis
Goble's retelling of this Blackfoot myth is very simple and direct. As in the fashion of all myths, the purpose of this tale is to explain the existence of something in nature- in this case, an unusual grouping of stars. Also, the presence and power of the Sun Man and his ability to punish those on Earth adds credence to this mythical story. Throughout this tale, Goble has remained loyal to the symbolism and meaning originally imbued in this ancient myth.
In order to illustrate this book, Goble researched the Blackfoot Indians and has, therefore, created an accurate depiction of artwork that might have been found in an actual Blackfoot camp. The colors are bright earth-tones and the artwork, especially on the renderings of the tipis, have an ancient, symbolic look. The colors as well as the pattern found within the illustrations (especially the picture of the Sun Man and Moon Woman) remind me of a bright colored quilt. I would also like to note that the paper and bindings are all made of recycled materials which adds to the natural, environmentally friendly nature of this ancient tale.
4. Review Excerpts
School Library Journal: "Goble's work [...] is notable both for its graphic design and for the narrative it adorns"
Publisher's Weekly: "Goble tells this story with earnest simplicity, a gentle cadence to his words imbuing the text with particular significance."
5. Connections
- Read about the Blackfoot Indians and discuss other myths/beliefs
- Read other books by Paul Goble
* THE GIRL WHO LOVED WILD HORSES
* DEATH OF THE IRON HORSE
* ADOPTED BY THE EAGLES: A PLAINS INDIAN STORY OF FRIENDSHIP AND TREACHERY
Goble, Paul. 1993. THE LOST CHILDREN: THE BOYS WHO WERE NEGLECTED. Ill. by Paul Goble. New York, New York: Bradbury Press. ISBN 0027365557
2. Plot Summary
This book is based on a Blackfoot Indian myth that explains the origins of the Pleiades stars. According to the myth, there were six Blackfoot children who were orphaned and alone. The children had little to eat, old discarded clothes, and no home in which to sleep at night. Instead of caring for these unfortunate youths, the village people mistreated them and laughed at their misfortune. One day, the kids decided to leave their misery behind and become stars. They were welcomed to the heavens by the Moon Woman and Sun Man who punished the tribe by causing a drought. The myth ends with a moral lesson by saying, "all little children are gifts from God."
3. Critical Analysis
Goble's retelling of this Blackfoot myth is very simple and direct. As in the fashion of all myths, the purpose of this tale is to explain the existence of something in nature- in this case, an unusual grouping of stars. Also, the presence and power of the Sun Man and his ability to punish those on Earth adds credence to this mythical story. Throughout this tale, Goble has remained loyal to the symbolism and meaning originally imbued in this ancient myth.
In order to illustrate this book, Goble researched the Blackfoot Indians and has, therefore, created an accurate depiction of artwork that might have been found in an actual Blackfoot camp. The colors are bright earth-tones and the artwork, especially on the renderings of the tipis, have an ancient, symbolic look. The colors as well as the pattern found within the illustrations (especially the picture of the Sun Man and Moon Woman) remind me of a bright colored quilt. I would also like to note that the paper and bindings are all made of recycled materials which adds to the natural, environmentally friendly nature of this ancient tale.
4. Review Excerpts
School Library Journal: "Goble's work [...] is notable both for its graphic design and for the narrative it adorns"
Publisher's Weekly: "Goble tells this story with earnest simplicity, a gentle cadence to his words imbuing the text with particular significance."
5. Connections
- Read about the Blackfoot Indians and discuss other myths/beliefs
- Read other books by Paul Goble
* THE GIRL WHO LOVED WILD HORSES
* DEATH OF THE IRON HORSE
* ADOPTED BY THE EAGLES: A PLAINS INDIAN STORY OF FRIENDSHIP AND TREACHERY
BUBBA, THE COWBOY PRINCE: A FRACTURED TEXAS TALE
1. Bibliography
Ketteman, Helen. 1997. BUBBA, THE COWBOY PRINCE: A FRACTURED TEXAS TALE. Ill. By James Warhola. New York, New York: Scholastic Inc. ISBN 0590255061
2. Plot Summary
This Tale is a gender reversed Cinderella story with a Texas twist. Bubba is a kind, sweet natured cowboy who works from dawn until dusk on a ranch that belongs to his evil stepdaddy. Meanwhile, rather than sharing in the chores, Bubba's evil stepbrothers Dwayne and Milton spend their days lying around and barking orders at poor Bubba. When Ms. Lurleen throws a ball in order to find her perfect mate, Bubba is transformed by his fairy godcow into an impressive sight. In the end, Ms. Lurleen chooses Bubba as her man even after she discovers that he is not a wealthy landowner but a ranch-hand. They live happily ever after.
3. Critical Analysis
This fractured tale is an adaptation of the well-known fairy tale, Cinderella. As with all traditional folktales, the characters in this retelling represent the two sides of human nature. Bubba symbolizes good, while his stepdaddy and two stepbrothers represent evil. This very simple plot is episodic in nature and the theme of good vs. evil is evident throughout. In the end, this modern retelling of a traditional staple is true to form when Bubba and Ms. Lurleen ride off into the sunset and good once again triumphs over evil.
The oil on canvas illustrations in this book have a dreamlike quality as the artist uses light and shading to create a magical feel. The presence of twinkling lights symbolizes magic while the evil characters are created using muted tones. This light vs. dark motif mimics the good vs. evil theme in the text. While the illustrations add both humor and depth to this tale, they also help to create and explain the Southern ranching culture in which this story is set.
4. Review Excerpts
Golden Sower Award (2001)
Booklist- "the story has a distinct western flair and a humorous tall-tale feel"
Publisher's Weekly- "Just the ticket for buckaroos lookin' fer a good read"
5. Connections
- Read and compare other versions of Cinderella
* ELLA ENCHANTED by Gail Carson Devine
* DINORELLA: A PREHISTORIC FAIRY TALE by: Pamela Edwards
*PRINCE CINDERS by: Babette Cole
- create a reader's theater presentation
- discuss the role of the folktale and read other examples
* LITTLE RED RIDINGHOOD
* THE UGLY DUCKLING
* THE THREE LITTLE PIGS
Ketteman, Helen. 1997. BUBBA, THE COWBOY PRINCE: A FRACTURED TEXAS TALE. Ill. By James Warhola. New York, New York: Scholastic Inc. ISBN 0590255061
2. Plot Summary
This Tale is a gender reversed Cinderella story with a Texas twist. Bubba is a kind, sweet natured cowboy who works from dawn until dusk on a ranch that belongs to his evil stepdaddy. Meanwhile, rather than sharing in the chores, Bubba's evil stepbrothers Dwayne and Milton spend their days lying around and barking orders at poor Bubba. When Ms. Lurleen throws a ball in order to find her perfect mate, Bubba is transformed by his fairy godcow into an impressive sight. In the end, Ms. Lurleen chooses Bubba as her man even after she discovers that he is not a wealthy landowner but a ranch-hand. They live happily ever after.
3. Critical Analysis
This fractured tale is an adaptation of the well-known fairy tale, Cinderella. As with all traditional folktales, the characters in this retelling represent the two sides of human nature. Bubba symbolizes good, while his stepdaddy and two stepbrothers represent evil. This very simple plot is episodic in nature and the theme of good vs. evil is evident throughout. In the end, this modern retelling of a traditional staple is true to form when Bubba and Ms. Lurleen ride off into the sunset and good once again triumphs over evil.
The oil on canvas illustrations in this book have a dreamlike quality as the artist uses light and shading to create a magical feel. The presence of twinkling lights symbolizes magic while the evil characters are created using muted tones. This light vs. dark motif mimics the good vs. evil theme in the text. While the illustrations add both humor and depth to this tale, they also help to create and explain the Southern ranching culture in which this story is set.
4. Review Excerpts
Golden Sower Award (2001)
Booklist- "the story has a distinct western flair and a humorous tall-tale feel"
Publisher's Weekly- "Just the ticket for buckaroos lookin' fer a good read"
5. Connections
- Read and compare other versions of Cinderella
* ELLA ENCHANTED by Gail Carson Devine
* DINORELLA: A PREHISTORIC FAIRY TALE by: Pamela Edwards
*PRINCE CINDERS by: Babette Cole
- create a reader's theater presentation
- discuss the role of the folktale and read other examples
* LITTLE RED RIDINGHOOD
* THE UGLY DUCKLING
* THE THREE LITTLE PIGS
Thursday, September 13, 2007
KNUFFLE BUNNY
1. Bibliography
Willems, Mo. 2004. KNUFFLE BUNNY. Ill. by Mo Willems. New York: Hyperion Books for Children. ISBN 0786818700
2. Plot Summary
In this very realistic story, Trixie is a toddler on the brink of developing articulate speech. She and her favorite toy accompany Daddy on an errand to the neighborhood laundromat. In all the excitement, Trixie loses track of her beloved toy and much to her frustration, she is unable to make her Daddy understand. Luckily, Mommy notices the missing toy and it is soon recovered. Trixie is so relieved to have her friend back that, in her excitement, she blurts out her first words, “Knuffle Bunny.”
3. Critical Analysis
In this book, Willems describes a very realistic situation that both parents and children will be able to relate to. Willems relates this delightful tale with simple language available to young readers. Yet, his use of direction, humor, and dialog, including incomprehensible baby talk, make this story both engaging and enjoyable.
The creative illustrations that accompany this delightful story are a true testament to Willem's artistic talent. The illustrations, composed of black and white photographs of a real neighborhood with colorful cartoon characters superimposed, adds to the realistic quality of the text. The photos of real places allow the reader to become further engaged in the story while the cartoon characters add humor. This book is truly a work of artistic brilliance.
4. Review Excerpts
ALA Notable Books for Children
Carnegie Medal
Bluegrass Award
Red Clover Award
School Library Journal: “A seamless and supremely satisfying presentation of art and text”
Booklist: “Readers of all ages will recognize the agonizing frustration of a little girl who knows far more than she can articulate”
Publishers Weekly: “Any child who has ever had a favorite toy will identify with the toddler star of this tale”
5. Connections
-Read other stories about lost/misplaced toys and ask the children to share their own tales.
*THE LOST TOYS by Irina Hale
*THE VELVETEEN RABBIT by Marjorie Williams
-Read other books by Mo Willems and discuss the different types of illustrations used.
LEONARDO, THE TERRIBLE MONSTER
KNUFFLE BUNNY TOO: A CASE OF MISTAKEN IDENTITY
Willems, Mo. 2004. KNUFFLE BUNNY. Ill. by Mo Willems. New York: Hyperion Books for Children. ISBN 0786818700
2. Plot Summary
In this very realistic story, Trixie is a toddler on the brink of developing articulate speech. She and her favorite toy accompany Daddy on an errand to the neighborhood laundromat. In all the excitement, Trixie loses track of her beloved toy and much to her frustration, she is unable to make her Daddy understand. Luckily, Mommy notices the missing toy and it is soon recovered. Trixie is so relieved to have her friend back that, in her excitement, she blurts out her first words, “Knuffle Bunny.”
3. Critical Analysis
In this book, Willems describes a very realistic situation that both parents and children will be able to relate to. Willems relates this delightful tale with simple language available to young readers. Yet, his use of direction, humor, and dialog, including incomprehensible baby talk, make this story both engaging and enjoyable.
The creative illustrations that accompany this delightful story are a true testament to Willem's artistic talent. The illustrations, composed of black and white photographs of a real neighborhood with colorful cartoon characters superimposed, adds to the realistic quality of the text. The photos of real places allow the reader to become further engaged in the story while the cartoon characters add humor. This book is truly a work of artistic brilliance.
4. Review Excerpts
ALA Notable Books for Children
Carnegie Medal
Bluegrass Award
Red Clover Award
School Library Journal: “A seamless and supremely satisfying presentation of art and text”
Booklist: “Readers of all ages will recognize the agonizing frustration of a little girl who knows far more than she can articulate”
Publishers Weekly: “Any child who has ever had a favorite toy will identify with the toddler star of this tale”
5. Connections
-Read other stories about lost/misplaced toys and ask the children to share their own tales.
*THE LOST TOYS by Irina Hale
*THE VELVETEEN RABBIT by Marjorie Williams
-Read other books by Mo Willems and discuss the different types of illustrations used.
LEONARDO, THE TERRIBLE MONSTER
KNUFFLE BUNNY TOO: A CASE OF MISTAKEN IDENTITY
JOSEPH HAD A LITTLE OVERCOAT
1. Bibliography
Taback, Simms. 1999. JOSEPH HAD A LITTLE OVERCOAT. Ill. by Simms Taback. New York: Penguin Books. ISBN 0670878553
2. Plot Summary
This very vivid Picture book tells the story of a man named Joseph who owned an old, worn out overcoat. Instead of throwing it away, a very creative Joseph uses the material to make a smaller garment, and then a smaller garment. This process continues until there is only enough fabric left to cover a small button. When Joseph loses the button, he writes a book about his experience, proving that “you can always make something out of nothing”(Taback, 1999).
3. Critical Analysis
For this story, Taback uses short sentences and direct language to tell a very simple story about a man that recycles his coat instead of throwing it out. This very direct narrative has a stark absence of details which are instead obtained from vibrant illustrations. Taback's use of bright primary colors and bold patterns mirror the feelings of hope found within the story as Joseph finds good in everything and makes something out of nothing. These amazing illustrations are composed of painterly, collage, and die cuts which together make the pictures appear to jump right off the page.
4. Review Excerpts
Caldecott Medal
National Jewish Book Awards
ALA Notable Book for Children
Horn Book Guide: “Clever, humorous, visually engrossing, poignant”
School Library Journal: “bursting at the seams with ingenuity and creative spirit”
5. Connections
-Gather other books by Taback and discuss his use of color to convey feelings. You might also discuss the use of die-cuts and what they can add to a story.
*THERE WAS AN OLD LADY WHO SWALLOWED A FLY by Simms Taback
-Read the following books and discuss the idea of a book that teaches a moral lesson.
* AESOP'S FABLES
* THE CLASSIC TREASURY OF HANS CHRISTIAN ANDERSON
Taback, Simms. 1999. JOSEPH HAD A LITTLE OVERCOAT. Ill. by Simms Taback. New York: Penguin Books. ISBN 0670878553
2. Plot Summary
This very vivid Picture book tells the story of a man named Joseph who owned an old, worn out overcoat. Instead of throwing it away, a very creative Joseph uses the material to make a smaller garment, and then a smaller garment. This process continues until there is only enough fabric left to cover a small button. When Joseph loses the button, he writes a book about his experience, proving that “you can always make something out of nothing”(Taback, 1999).
3. Critical Analysis
For this story, Taback uses short sentences and direct language to tell a very simple story about a man that recycles his coat instead of throwing it out. This very direct narrative has a stark absence of details which are instead obtained from vibrant illustrations. Taback's use of bright primary colors and bold patterns mirror the feelings of hope found within the story as Joseph finds good in everything and makes something out of nothing. These amazing illustrations are composed of painterly, collage, and die cuts which together make the pictures appear to jump right off the page.
4. Review Excerpts
Caldecott Medal
National Jewish Book Awards
ALA Notable Book for Children
Horn Book Guide: “Clever, humorous, visually engrossing, poignant”
School Library Journal: “bursting at the seams with ingenuity and creative spirit”
5. Connections
-Gather other books by Taback and discuss his use of color to convey feelings. You might also discuss the use of die-cuts and what they can add to a story.
*THERE WAS AN OLD LADY WHO SWALLOWED A FLY by Simms Taback
-Read the following books and discuss the idea of a book that teaches a moral lesson.
* AESOP'S FABLES
* THE CLASSIC TREASURY OF HANS CHRISTIAN ANDERSON
A CALDECOTT CELEBRATION
1. Bibliography
Marcus, Leonard S. 1998. A CALDECOTT CELEBRATION: SIX ARTISTS AND THEIR PATHS TO THE CALDECOTT MEDAL. New York: Walker and Company. ISBN 0802786561
2. Plot Summary
This book is a compilation of stories about the creation of six Caldecott Award winning books. It highlights a book from each decade spanning the award's sixty year history. The book also includes some biographical information about each author as well as quotes from their award acceptance speeches. Each story contains a list of all of the titles created by that author along with the publication dates and any awards won. At the end of the book is a list of all of the Caldecott award-winning books from its inception in 1938 through 1998.
3. Critical Analysis
This book is a beautifully written account of six artists' lives and the paths they took that led them to win the Caldecott medal. The simple writing makes an understandable historical account while at the same time making each author both memorable as well as lovable. It offers a chronological look at the creation of a picture book, but adds a degree of emotion by quoting the authors themselves. This book would be inspiring for a young artist hoping to one day illustrate children's books.
The stories told in this book depend heavily on the written text, however, the illustrations add to a deeper understanding of the amount of work required to create a children's book. The examples of dummy sketches, while not a finished product, are unique and amazing to look at. The photographs of the artists add humanity to the biographies, and the copies of the book covers portray the finished product. While the illustrations are not the focal point of this book, they add character and believability to the text that they accompany.
4. Review Excepts
School Library Journal: “So many good stories for children and adults to enjoy”
Booklist: “ A beautifully made book, this will serve as a fine resource for children interested in illustration”
5. Connections
-Gather each of the books highlighted in this compilation. Read each book noting the finished product compared to the dummy sketches.
*MAKE WAY FOR DUCKLINGS by Robert McCloskey
*CINDERELLA; OR, THE LITTLE GLASS SLIPPER by Marcia Brown
*WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE by Maurice Sendak
*SYLVESTER AND THE MAGIC PEBBLEe by William Steig
*JUMANJI by Chris Van Allsbury
*TUESDAY by David Wiesner
-Other biographical books about author/illustrators
*TALKING WITH ARTISTS by: Pat Cummings
*A CALDECOTT CELEBRATION: SEVEN ARTISTS AND THEIR PATHS TO THE CALDECOTT MEDAL by: Leonard Marcus
Marcus, Leonard S. 1998. A CALDECOTT CELEBRATION: SIX ARTISTS AND THEIR PATHS TO THE CALDECOTT MEDAL. New York: Walker and Company. ISBN 0802786561
2. Plot Summary
This book is a compilation of stories about the creation of six Caldecott Award winning books. It highlights a book from each decade spanning the award's sixty year history. The book also includes some biographical information about each author as well as quotes from their award acceptance speeches. Each story contains a list of all of the titles created by that author along with the publication dates and any awards won. At the end of the book is a list of all of the Caldecott award-winning books from its inception in 1938 through 1998.
3. Critical Analysis
This book is a beautifully written account of six artists' lives and the paths they took that led them to win the Caldecott medal. The simple writing makes an understandable historical account while at the same time making each author both memorable as well as lovable. It offers a chronological look at the creation of a picture book, but adds a degree of emotion by quoting the authors themselves. This book would be inspiring for a young artist hoping to one day illustrate children's books.
The stories told in this book depend heavily on the written text, however, the illustrations add to a deeper understanding of the amount of work required to create a children's book. The examples of dummy sketches, while not a finished product, are unique and amazing to look at. The photographs of the artists add humanity to the biographies, and the copies of the book covers portray the finished product. While the illustrations are not the focal point of this book, they add character and believability to the text that they accompany.
4. Review Excepts
School Library Journal: “So many good stories for children and adults to enjoy”
Booklist: “ A beautifully made book, this will serve as a fine resource for children interested in illustration”
5. Connections
-Gather each of the books highlighted in this compilation. Read each book noting the finished product compared to the dummy sketches.
*MAKE WAY FOR DUCKLINGS by Robert McCloskey
*CINDERELLA; OR, THE LITTLE GLASS SLIPPER by Marcia Brown
*WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE by Maurice Sendak
*SYLVESTER AND THE MAGIC PEBBLEe by William Steig
*JUMANJI by Chris Van Allsbury
*TUESDAY by David Wiesner
-Other biographical books about author/illustrators
*TALKING WITH ARTISTS by: Pat Cummings
*A CALDECOTT CELEBRATION: SEVEN ARTISTS AND THEIR PATHS TO THE CALDECOTT MEDAL by: Leonard Marcus
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