Fiction, Fantasy, and Young Adult Book Review - A Michael L. Prinz Award Winner

Book Cover Photo Source, Barnes and Noble: http://books.barnesandnoble.com/search/results.aspx?WRD=looking+for+alaska, accessed Dec. 1, 2008.

Bibliography
Green, John. 2005. LOOKING FOR ALASKA. New York, NY: Dutton Books.
ISBN 0142402516

Plot Summary
In his debut novel, LOOKING FOR ALASKA, John Green tells the coming-of-age story of Miles Halter, a friendless, gifted Florida teenager who is fascinated by the last words of famous people, his favorite being Francois Rabelais’s, “I go to seek a Great Perhaps.” After persuading his parents to let him leave home to attend boarding school in Alabama, Miles befriends two equally gifted outcasts: Chip, aka the Colonel, his best friend and roommate, and Alaska, beautiful, spontaneous, and ultimately headed for disaster.

As the school year progresses and the three friends grow closer, the book moves towards a tragic climax that will change them forever and move Miles towards his “Great Perhaps.”

Critical Analysis
Green, who is young enough to clearly remember his emotional years of high school and talented enough to turn them into a book, writes an amazing story of tragedy and triumph, in LOOKING FOR ALASKA. LOOKING FOR ALASKA gracefully chronicles teenager Miles Halter’s first year of boarding school and the impact that one person’s actions can have on another. Determined to fit in, Miles embarks on a year of contraband, tests, pranks and realizations about life and family. The characters are appealing and young adult readers will be hooked from the first page of well-articulated, authentic dialogue.

From the first time that Miles, affectionately called “Pudge” by his friends, lays eyes on Alaska, “the hottest girl in all of human history was standing before me,” he is totally smitten. Alaska is smart, funny, sexy and unlike any girl that Miles has ever met before. As the semester progresses, so does Miles’ crush on Alaska, even though it becomes increasingly clear that her troubled past sometimes causes her to be self-destructive.

In religion class their teacher asks each student "What is the most important question facing people today?", to which Alaska answers: “How will we ever get out of this Labyrinth of suffering?” This is the question that each character must answer to be able to get through the tragedy and sadness that eventually surrounds them all.

Written in two parts “before” and “after,” and in headings such as “one hundred twenty-seven days before” and “the day after,” the reader lunges towards the books devastating climax that will leave them with many theological and philosophical truths, as well as questions about their own life and choices that they will make along the way.

Review Excerpt(s)
Winner of the 2006 Michael L. Prinz award
PUBLISHER’S WEEKLY: "The novel's chief appeal lies in Miles's well-articulated lust (for Alaska, the title girl) and his initial excitement about being on his own for the first time."
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “This novel is about real kids dealing with the pressures of growing up and feeling indestructible. Listeners will be riveted as the friends band together to deal with the catastrophic events that plague their junior year, and rejoice at their triumphs.”
KIRKUS REVIEWS: “What sings and soars in this gorgeously told tale is Green's mastery of language and the sweet, rough edges of Pudge's voice. Girls will cry and boys will find love, lust, loss and longing in Alaska's vanilla-and-cigarettes scent.”

Connections
Explore the ways that one person’s actions may affect another person’s life. Teachers may want to tie in the dangers of drinking and driving. There are many subjects in this book that will be too controversial to talk about, but there are plenty of opportunities to explore some of these in a positive manner.
Other books by John Green that you may enjoy:
PAPER TOWNS. ISBN 0525478183
AN ABUNDANCE OF KATHERINES. ISBN 0142412023LET IT SNOW: THREE HOLIDAY ROMANCES. ISBN 0142412147

Historical Fiction Book Review - A Classic Work of Historical Fiction

Book Cover Photo Source, Barnes and Noble: http://search.barnesandnoble.com/Sarah-Plain-and-Tall/Patricia-MacLachlan/e/9780060241018/?itm=2, accessed November 12, 2008.

Bibliography
MacLachlan, Patricia. 1985. SARAH, PLAIN AND TALL. New York, NY: HarperCollins Children’s Books. ISBN 0060241020

Plot Summary
Set in the 1880’s, SARAH, PLAIN AND TALL is the story of two siblings, Anna and Caleb, who are living without a mother after she dies during childbirth. Jacob, Anna and Caleb’s father, has put an ad in the newspapers for a wife and receives and answer from a woman named Sarah who lives in Maine. She writes the family that she will come for a month’s time “To see how it is.” She tells the family “I will come by train. I will wear a yellow bonnet. I am plain and tall.” She also tells the children that she sings, which they haven’t done since they lost their mother. The children are very receptive to Sarah’s nurturing and attention and soon start to worry that she will miss her home in Maine too much to stay with them. As the seasons change and the children grow more attached to Sarah, readers will hold their breath in finding out if Sarah does indeed decide to stay.

Critical Analysis
This piece of historical fiction is written in a gentle poetic rhythm that flows to create a story of family relationships in their fragile beginnings. Anna and Caleb fall in love with Sarah through her letters even before she arrives from Maine. The characters dialogue with one another though simple, gives us much insight to each ones personality. Anna, the thoughtful one, Caleb, who Anna describes as “loud and pesky,” but in reality is very insecure, Papa, the quiet one, and Sarah, who is “strong” and “willing to travel” but who also has a mind of her own.

MacLachlan describes life on the prairie with such detail that students will feel as if they have been there. In one scene in the book the children have just gone swimming with Sarah in the cow pond, “We climbed the bank and dried ourselves and lay in the grass again. The cows watched, their eyes sad in their dinner-plate faces. And I slept, dreaming a perfect dream. The fields had turned to a sea that gleamed like sun on glass. And Sarah was happy.” MacLachlan has said that her story is based on a true event in her family’s history, which gives the book that much more credibility.

The story flows flawlessly and would be wonderful read aloud to younger students. Older students will enjoy reading it on their own and discussing it as a class. Many concepts, such as mail order brides, will be new to the students, whereas life in the late 1800’s will be at least familiar to most. Although short, the book is a touching story for those who prefer quality to quantity.

Review Excerpt(s)
JOHN NEWBERRY MEDAL WINNER 1986 – For the Most Distinguished Contribution to American Literature for Children
SCOTT O’DELL AWARD FOR HISTORICAL FICTION FOR CHILDREN 1986
BOOK LINKS: “All the elements-setting, character, plot and voice-are exquisitely woven together in a tightly written, highly accessible story. The language is spare, yet lyrical.”
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL, Starred Book Review: “A book that is filled with wisdom, gentle humor and the practical concerns necessary for a satisfying life.”

Connections
Invite students to write an original story of what they think happens after the story ends. What adventures might Anna and her new family have together? After doing this activity read the sequel to SARAH, PLAIN AND TALL, and see if any of your predictions were right.
Discuss in further detail this time in History. What big changes were taking place in America? What were some of the big inventions during this time?
Other books by Patricia Maclachlan:
SKYLARK. ISBN 0064406222
CALEB’S STORY. ISBN 0064405907

JOURNEY. ISBN 0440408091

BABY. ISBN 0440411495

Historical Fiction Book Review - Novel by Avi

Book Cover Photo Source, Barnes and Noble: http://search.barnesandnoble.com/Barn/Avi/e/9780380725625/?itm=1, accessed November 10, 2008.

Bibliography
Avi. 1994. THE BARN. New York, NY: Avon Books. ISBN 0380725622

Plot Summary
Avi has written a touching historical novel set in the spring of 1855, in the Willamette Valley, Oregon Territory. Nine-year-old Benjamin has been called home from boarding school by his sister, after their father has taken ill. In the story we meet Nettie, the oldest and the only girl in the family, Harrison, thirteen and the strongest of the three, and Ben, nine, who has gone to Portland to attend school because he is extremely bright. Their mother died of diphtheria a year before and now their father has been struck by palsy. In an effort to save their father, the three siblings set out to fulfill their fathers dying wish, building a barn on their Oregon farm.

Critical Analysis
In this well written piece of historical fiction, Avi shows his readers how complicated things can become for families long ago when tragedy struck. The story is told through the eyes of Ben, the youngest in the family. Ben, who has shown great promise as a scholar, has returned home from boarding school in Portland, where he was sent to live in order to fulfill his mother’s last wish.

Through the story, the author does a superb job of introducing its readers to just how difficult life could be for immigrants who settled in the ample, fertile farmland of the Willamette Valley. Ben has lost his mother to diphtheria, and a brother on the hard journey to get to this valley. The land is fertile, but hard to manage with few people and animals to do the work. There are days of endless rains that threaten the crops and the animals that they do have. The details of the house in which they live will leave the students with a real sense of what it would be like to live in a place with no real floors or walls, where the water leaks in when it rains, and where your mattress is made of hay covered with cloth.

The characters in the story seem real and will be easy for students to relate to. The concept of living on a farm is something that most children have heard about beginning in preschool. With their father lying ill, readers will root for the three siblings to get the barn built in an effort to save their fathers life and will revel in the details of what a painstaking process it was. The story would be a great read-aloud. It is short and easy to understand so that stopping for discussion throughout the reading will not confuse listeners. It would also be a good choice for older students who may not be strong readers.

The last chapter of the book gives us insight into what becomes of Ben. He writes: "It is alomost seventy years since that time. But every morning when I get up, the first thing I do is look at the barn. Like father promised: it's something fine to come home to. Still standing. Still Strong." Though not as long as some of Avi’s other novels, this piece of literature proves to be a thought-provoking, engaging piece of historical fiction.

Review Excerpt(s)
PUBLISHER’S WEEKLY: “Easily read in one sitting, this unembellished story proves to be as intimate as a diary, gracefully revealing its protagonist's keen intelligence, strong determination and secret fear of being separated from his loved ones.”
CHILDREN”S LITERATURE: “Avi shows how complicated family love can become when tragedy strikes. Ben, the hero, an extraordinary nine year old is sent from his 1855 farm to be educated so that he can fulfill the great promise his family sees in him.”
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “The family relationships are well drawn, as the siblings react to each situation in their own way, though Benjamin's obsession with curing his father makes him a hard character to empathize with at times. Ultimately, the boy is forced to question his own additional motives for building the barn. While focusing mainly on his characters, Avi presents a vivid picture of the time and place, including fairly involved details about how the barn is constructed.”

Connections
This novel would be a great way to introduce students to the hardships of pioneer life in the 1800’s. Students could discover everything from how buildings were built to what the settlers ate and how they kept clean during this time in history.
Other books on life in the 1800’s:
Brink, Carol Ryrie. CADDIE WOODLAWN. ISBN 0689815212
Frazier, Neta Lohnes. THE STOUT-HEARTED SEVEN: ORPHANED ON THE OREGON TRAIL. ISBN 1402736177
Speare, Elizabeth George. SIGN OF THE BEAVER. ISBN 0440479002Wilder, Laura Ingalls. Little House on the Prairie (Little House Series). ISBN 0060581816

Historical Fiction Book Review - The Scott O'Dell Award for Historical Fiction

Book Cover Photo Source, Barnes and Noble: http://search.barnesandnoble.com/The-Green-Glass-Sea/Ellen-Klages/e/9780670061341/?itm=2, accessed November 9, 2008.

Bibliography
Klages, Ellen. 2006. THE GREEN GLASS SEA. New York, NY: Puffin Books.
ISBN 978014241149

Plot Summary
In this work of historical fiction by Ellen Klages, we meet Dewey Kerrigan as she is on her way to Los Alamos, New Mexico, to be reunited with her father, a mathematician and former professor at Harvard. The year is 1943 and World War II is in full swing. Los Alamos, a town that officially doesn’t exist, is home to scientists and mathematicians from all over America and Europe as they work on the biggest secret of the war, which they call “the gadget.” None of them know, least of all Dewey, how much “the gadget” is about to change their lives forever.

Critical Analysis
The Green Glass Sea by Ellen Klages is a rare look into what life was like for children who lived in Los Alamos, New Mexico during the early 1940’s. The two main characters in the story, eleven-year-old Dewey, nicknamed “Screwy Dewey” because she is always building something, and ten-year-old Suze nicknamed “The Truck” because “she’s kind of big and likes to push people around,” are two outcasts who find themselves thrown together because of circumstances beyond their control. The two girls don’t like each other initially, but learn to rely on one other for support, comfort, and companionship.

Clearly written with attention to detail, this story will bring readers into the unfamiliar world of this secretive scientific community as seen through the eyes of the children and their families. The particulars of this era, the pastimes, music, and products, are well represented and add authenticity to the story as do brief appearances by some historic figures such as Robert Oppenheimer, affectionately known as “Oppie.” As the book progresses, ethics come into question for both children and adults as they learn the ultimate use of the atomic bomb.

The book, which won the Scott O’Dell Award for Historical Fiction in 2007, looks at a time and place in history that has rarely been explored before and shows us that children will be children no matter where they live. Readers will come away with a greater understanding of what took place during this time in history and will look forward to the sequel “White Sands, Red Menace”, out last month.

Review Excerpt(s)

PUBLISHER’S WEEKLY: “Klages makes an impressive debut with an ambitious, meticulously researched novel set during WWII. Writing from the points of view of two displaced children, she successfully recreates life at Los Alamos Camp, where scientists and mathematicians converge with their families to construct and test the first nuclear bomb.”

CHILDREN’S LITERATURE: “All of the characters are likable, realistic, and well developed. Dewey is worthy of both empathy and respect, and readers can look forward to the sequel, which the author is currently writing.”
VOYA: “The Green Glass Sea is a wonderful representation of the hardships and little wonders of World War II. Suze and Dewey have their differences, but they become friends in the center of one of the most debated and notorious places of that era. Although Los Alamos is seen as the beginning of all the atomic bomb controversy and destruction, this novel gives the other side. Poetic and real, this one will keep you reading and leave you thinking.”

Connections
After reading the book do an in-depth study of Los Alamos, NM and what took place there during WWII. For Example: What was day-to-day life like for the children? Families had to use food coupons and gas coupons for every day necessities such as groceries. Why? The kids in the story talk about going to the PX for a coke. What was the PX?
Other books you may find interesting about Los Alamos:
Bograd, Larry. LOS ALAMOS LIGHT. ISBN 0374346569
Embry-Litchman, Kristin. SECRETS!: OF A LOS ALAMOS KID 1946-53.
ISBN 0941232271
Reeder, Carolyn. SECRET PROJECT NOTEBOOK. ISBN 0941232336

Non-Fiction Review - Biography by Kathleen Krull

Book Cover Photo Source: Barnes and Noble, http://search.barnesandnoble.com/The-Boy-on-Fairfield-Street/Kathleen-Krull/e/9780375822988/?itm=1, accessed October 27, 2008.

Bibliography
Krull, Kathleen. 2004. THE BOY ON FAIRFIELD STREET: HOW TED GEISEL GREW UP TO BECOME DR. SUESS. Ill. By Steve Johnson and Lou Fancher. New York, NY: Random House. ISBN 0375822984

Plot Summary
This book is an introduction to the life of children’s author and illustrator Ted Geisel, also known as Dr. Seuss. The story takes us through his childhood growing up in Springfield, Massachusetts and leaves us when he is 22 and living in New York prepared to make it as a writer and illustrator.

In The Boy on Fairfield Street the focus is on his childhood including his love of zoo animals, his affection for writing and drawing, and his unusual way of looking at the world around him. Readers of all ages will identify with this familiar author and will delight in hearing about how he came to be known around the world as “Dr. Seuss”.

Critical Analysis
“Once upon a time, there lived a boy who feasted on books and was wild about animals.” So begins this wonderful biography of Dr. Seuss for young readers. The easy to read narrative describes how early on, Geisel showed an affection for drawing (even on his bedroom walls), “whatever popped into his head.” In high school he took one art class but quit when his teacher “scolded him for breaking the rules.” At the urging of his favorite English teacher he applied to and was accepted at Dartmouth College in New Hampshire. Ted went to college and tried to find what he was good at but as Krull tells us, he “was clearly gifted, though no one knew at exactly what. It wasn’t as if men could doodle for a living.” It was after getting in trouble with the campus humor magazine that he began to sign the name “Seuss” to his work. The story ends with his career as Dr. Seuss still to come.

The full-page illustrations in the story by Steve Johnson and Lou Fancher give off the warm glow of an ideal upbringing. They are nostalgic in nature and have a “Norman Rockwell” feel to them. Dr. Seuss’ whimsical drawings are scattered through the pages as well, a constant reminder of just who Ted Geisel grew up to become.

At the end of the book there are several pages of additional information about Dr. Seuss after the story ends, including how he got his start in children’s books, information about his personal life, and a list of his works (all of which are still in print). My favorite thing about this charming book was how the author and illustrators included his favorite toy dog Theophrastus, his first stuffed animal and a gift from his mother. He is introduced to us as she is reading young Ted a bedtime story and we see him throughout the book in various scenes. Reading this story and thinking about how Ted Geisel’s books have spanned generations, remind us of how important his life was to children everywhere.

Review Excerpt(s):
PUBLISHER’S WEEKLY: “Featured in spot art, familiar Seuss characters frolic through these pages, thematically complementing the illustrations while reminding readers why Geisel's life is worth celebrating.”
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “This picture-book biography is a winner. Ted Geisel was not an athletic child, and spent his free time roaming his neighborhood in Springfield, MA, and hanging out with his best friend. Except for encountering some strong anti-German sentiment, his childhood was ideally normal.”
KIRKUS REVIEWS: “Bordered, full-page oil-on-gessoed-paper illustrations evoke pertinent scenes, while spot art of Seuss drawings dot the opposite pages. Some of these original images are absolutely haunting; the magic of his name will make this a huge hit, but it's the lively writing that puts the hat on the cat.”

Connections:

Do a class study on the life of Ted Geisel. Have the students predict when they think he wrote each book and then do a timeline of when each book was published to see if they were correct.
Other books of the life of Ted Geisel:
THE SEUSS, THE WHOLE SEUSS, AND NOTHING BUT THE SEUSS: A VISUAL BIOGRAPHY OF THEODORE SEUSS GEISEL. ISBN 0375822488
OH THE PLACES HE WENT: A STORY ABOUT DR. SEUSS-THEODORE SEUSS GEISEL. ISBN 0876146272

Poetry Review - Poetry by Kristine O'Connell George

Book Cover Photo Source: Barnes and Noble, http://search.barnesandnoble.com/Little-Dog-Poems/Kristine-OConnell-George/e/9780395822661/?itm=1, accessed October 13, 2008.

Bibliography
George, Kristine O’Connell. 1999. LITTLE DOG POEMS. Ill. by June Otani. New York, NY: Houghton Mifflin Company. ISBN 0395822661

Plot Summary
In this charming book of poetry we spend a day with a little girl and her Little Dog. Little Dog protects the girl from the vacuum cleaner, guards the house against mail jeeps, delivery trucks and cats, and loves presents from the pet store. This book of 30 lively poems is a must for every dog lover!

Critical Analysis
In this collection of 30 short poems, Kristine O’Connell George takes us through an ordinary day for Little Dog. Any child who has ever had a pet will relate to these easy to read short poems. From waking up in the morning, “Little Dog’s cold nose/is better than any/alarm clock”, to bedtime, “No one will ever guess/that the lump/under my blanket is/Little Dog”, we witness the love and admiration between dog and owner.

June Otani’s illustrations, done in eye-catching watercolor, are a perfect match for the playful text, which sometimes swirls around the page. Through her pictures we can actually “see” Little Dog in our minds and all of the adventures she has in a normal day. We come to know how much the little girl loves Little Dog in one poem about Little Dog’s birthday. “Only someone/who loves Little Dog/very much/would bake/birthday cookies with/liver powder.” This is an enchanting book which will be a joy to share with even the youngest of readers.

Review Excerpt(s)
HORN BOOK review: “The events are as ordinary, and as entrancing, as a child's own daily round; the language is simple and concrete enough for the youngest listeners.”
PUBLISHER’S WEEKLY: “Otani's familiarity with the exuberance and joy of puppies and children shines through her delicate watercolors, and she depicts their pounces and feints, cuddles and anticipation, with a deft sense of line.”
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL review: “The poetry and paintings in Little Dog Poems complement one another wonderfully and bring to life an engaging canine character.”
KIRKUS REVIEWS: “George plays with words with a sure hand; just as surely, Otani picks up on their expressive qualities, e.g., showing the bedraggled pup in "Bath," "Dripping and soggy,/Little Dog/really is/little." A charming glimpse of life with a small dog, and its small but satisfying pleasures.”

Connections
This book would be a wonderful new way to share poetry with children. It is not the typical rhyming poems that so many children come to expect. It would be a great way for you to have your children in class make up their own poems about a familiar topic.
Other engaging books of poetry by Kristine O’Connell George
TOASTING MARSHMALLOWS ISBN 061804597X
THE GREAT FROG RACE: AND OTHER POEMS ISBN 0618604782
SWIMMING UPSTREAM: MIDDLE SCHOOL POEMS ISBN 0618152504
BOOK! ISBN 0395982871
FOLD ME A POEM ISBN 0152025014

Poetry Review - Poetry Collection by Jack Prelutsky

Book Cover Photo Source: Greenwillow Books for Children, http://www.harpercollins.com/books/9780060823351/What_a_Day_It_Was_at_School/index.aspx, accessed October 11, 2008.

Bibliography
Prelutsky, Jack. 2006. WHAT A DAY IT WAS AT SCHOOL! Ill. By Doug Cushman. New York, NY: Greenwillow Books. ISBN 0060823356

Plot Summary
In this book of poetry, Jack Prelutsky takes us through some of the funny situations that occur in Elementary School. The main character in the stories is a chubby overall-clad cat that has written the 17 poems in journal form. While telling his mom about his day, he takes us through some of the trials and tribulations of elementary school including not completing homework assignments, music class, and field trips. Students will relate to all of these situations and will be laughing at loud as they hear them.

Critical Analysis
Doug Cushman’s humorous illustrations set the stage for this book even before the title page has been introduced. We see an exhausted kitten coming in from school dragging his backpack behind him and then a very animated scene where his mother is asking about his day to which he replies, “It’s all in my journal.”
The combination of journal style writing coupled with Jack Prelutsky’s signature humor makes for a winning combination in this children’s book of poetry. The poems are varied in subject matter ranging from very heavy backpacks to food fights in the cafeteria, all of which elementary school aged children will easily relate to. In “I Made a Noise this Morning” we hear about the embarrassment of passing gas in class with a little pride mixed in; “Though I’m sorry that I made it,/from the bottom of my heart,/In a way, my brief eruption/was a little work of art.”

Cushman’s paintings, done in watercolor are a perfect match for the lively text. His characters, which include a cat, rabbit, and several varieties of rodents, have wonderful facial expressions that cheerfully complete each poem. In “I Know How to Add,” which deals with the problems associated with math, “I cannot seem to do fractions at all-/I’ve tried and I’ve tried and I’ve tried./Will I ever solve twelve-elevenths times nine?” we see a lion as the math teacher who bears a striking resemblance to Albert Einstein and wears a shirt that says “E=mc2”. The last poem in the book, which deals with writing a poem for class, “My poem must have a meter,/and it also has to rhyme./It’s due tomorrow morning…./How I wish I had more time!” may be an inspiration for students to start writing poems of their own school experiences.

Review Excerpt(s)
PUBLISHER’S WEEKLY review: “The school-age set will recognize the oft-discussed topics: food fights, field trips and the embarrassing passing of gas during class, among others. The author metes out doses of humor over the course of the 17 poems. In "I Wish I'd Studied Harrder," the laughs lie in the intentional misspellings ("I tried to spell Cunneddykit,/ But really I just gessed.../ If I had stoodied harder/ Then I mite have passed this test").”
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL review: “In addition to being a popular choice for poetry-loving young readers, this school-themed collection is certain to make continual rounds among early elementary teachers for use in the classroom.”
KIRKUS REVIEWS: “Reluctant readers and poetry lovers alike will find plenty to laugh at and identify with here, and there is never an awkward line or a sour note-although in one poem, there is a rather unfortunate smell.”

Connections
After reading this book of poetry have the students make up their own poems about something that has happened to them at school or at home. This would also be a great way to introduce journal writing. Have your students start a journal and encourage them to write part of it in poetry form.
Other books of poetry by Jack Prelutsky:
MY DOG MAY BE A GENIUS ISBN 0066238625
IT’S HALLOWEEN ISBN 068814733X
PIZZA, PIGS AND POETRY ISBN 0061434485THE NEW KID ON THE BLOCK ISBN 0688022715

Traditional Literature Book Review - Folktale by Eric Kimmel

Book cover photo source: Barnes and Noble, http://search.barnesandnoble.com/Anansi-and-the-Moss-Covered-Rock/Eric-A-Kimmel/e/9780823406890/?itm=2, accessed September 30, 2008.

Bibliography
Kimmel, Eric A., Trans. 1990. ANANSI AND THE MOSS COVERED ROCK. Ill. by Janet Stevens. New York: Holiday House. ISBN 0823407985

Plot Summary
In this West African trickster tale, Anansi the spider happens upon a strange moss covered rock while walking in the forest. When he learns that saying the phrase “Isn’t this a strange moss covered rock?” will make you fall unconscious to the ground for an hour, he decides to trick all of the other animals in the forest. Because Anansi is too lazy to pick the food himself, he plays his trick again and again “making off” with Lion’s yams, Elephant’s bananas, and all of the other animals’ food that they worked so hard to get. What Anansi doesn’t know is that Little Bush Deer has been watching him and has a plan of her own to teach Anansi a lesson.

Critical Analysis
“Anansi and the Moss Covered Rock” is a great example of a classic trickster tale, revisited by Eric Kimmel. In this Anansi tale, the character is portrayed by a large black spider that shows his emotion through movement. The text is rhythmic and engaging for all ages of elementary school students. Many parts of the story are repetitious, “Isn’t this a strange moss-covered rock?” thus, making it easy for even the youngest children to comprehend this delightful tale of mischief.

Janet Stevens illustrations define each animal as an individual with different emotions portrayed in their unique facial expressions. These colorful drawings add humor and movement to the anticipatory text. When the children realize that Little Bush Deer has been watching, they will love going back in the story and finding her in the detailed images on each page.

Review Excerpt
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “Anansi the Spider happens upon an unusual stone that magically puts him to sleep for an hour. The master trickster decides to use the rock to get the food stores from the rest of the local residents. Each animal is taken in turn to the strange moss-covered rock, says the magic phrase, and promptly falls asleep to have its food pilfered by Anansi. All the while, however, Little Bush Deer silently watches. Ultimately, it is small and shy Deer who outwits Anansi and returns the food to its rightful owners.”

Connections
This story would be an excellent choice for reader’s theater. There are a minimal amount of characters with each one having basically the same lines and movements. Students could make their own costumes using large paper bags and construction paper and even a child who is a little shy would do great as “Little Bush Deer”.
Other stories about Anansi the Spider:
Kimmel, Eric A. ANANSI AND THE MAGIC STICK. ISBN 0823417638
McDermott, Gerald. ANANSI THE SPIDER: A Tale from the Ashanti. ISBN 0805003118
Kimmel, Eric A. ANANSI AND THE TALKING MELON. ISBN 0823411672
Gleeson, Brian. ANANSI. ISBN 1596793422

Traditional Literature Review - Folk Literature Collection

Book cover photo source: Barnes and Noble, http://search.barnesandnoble.com/Mightier-Than-the-Sword/Jane-Yolen/e/9780152163914/?itm=5, accessed September 30, 2008.

Bibliography
Yolen, Jane, Trans. 2003. MIGHTIER THAN THE SWORD: World Folktales for Strong Boys. Ill. By Raul Colon. New York: Harcourt Books. ISBN 0152163913

Plot Summary

In this collection of fourteen familiar and unfamiliar stories from Russia to Afghanistan, Norway to Angola, and everywhere in-between, Jane Yolen tells us the tales of brothers, sons, kings and Shepard’s, whose heroism comes from intelligence, judgment, character, and sympathy for others. The men and boys in these stories teach us that “brains trump brawn almost every time”, and that being a hero “is about being clever, learning from your mistakes, being kind and compassionate, and finding good friends.”

Critical Analysis
Jane Yolen introduces us to these fourteen wonderful tales with an open letter to her sons and grandson. The way she talks about why she chose to write these stories, “I think that the true heroes are the ones who solve their problems-and the problems of the world-without ever having to resort to force. The tongue is mightier than the sword,” should make us all sit up and take notice.

In “The Magic Brocade”, three brothers must make the right choices in order to save their dying mother. Two of the brothers are too afraid of the journey that they are asked to take and too greedy with the money they are given to help her. These two end up lonely and poor at the end of the tale. But the youngest brother, the compassionate son, faces the challenge head-on, thus bringing health and happiness to his mother and himself for the rest of their days.

There are thirteen other stories in this collection of tales, all teaching the value of strength without force. Some such as the Irish “Jack and His Companions,” which favors “The Bremen Town Musicians” will be familiar to readers, while others such as the Israeli tale, “And Who Cured the Princess?” will be less so. Raul Colon’s black and white pen and ink drawings complement the text beautifully. They are scattered about the book with one drawing for each story including a stunning book cover done in muted tones of black, gold and blue.

Review Excerpt(s)
KIRKUS REVIEWS: “Yolen, an undisputable queen of storytelling, shines with these retellings. A stellar read-aloud volume as well as just right for independent readers.”
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “While she is particularly interested in reaching boys with this message, these 14 folktales will appeal equally well to girls. Her versions of these stories are lively, expressively written, ready for reading aloud or telling, and illustrative of her point.”

Connections
In the back of the book Yolen tells the history behind each of these stories. Students could research the original stories and compare and contrast the new to the old. This would also be a great lesson on geography where in pairs, the students could be given one of the different countries that the stories came from and do a study on its culture and how it fits into the tale.
Other traditional tales by Jane Yolen:
Sleeping Ugly ISBN 0698115600
Johnny Appleseed: The Legend and the Truth ISBN 0060591358
The Emperor and the Kite ISBN 0698116445
Not One Damsel in Distress: World Folktales for Strong Girls ISBN 0512020470

Traditional Literature Book Review - Picture Book Version of Cinderella

Book Cover Photo Source: Barnes and Noble, http://search.barnesandnoble.com/Cindy-Ellen/Susan-Lowell/e/9780064438643/?itm=13, accessed September 29, 2008.

Bibliography
Lowell, Susan. 2000. CINDY ELLEN. Ill. By Jane Manning. New York, NY: HarperCollins Children’s. ISBN 0064438643

Plot Summary
CINDY ELLEN by Susan Lowell is a western version of the classic folktale CINDERELLA. In this story set in the old west, a rancher marries for a second time and gains not only “the orneriest woman west of the Mississippi”, but two mean stepdaughters as well. Of course his own daughter, whose name is Cindy Ellen, “was as sweet and gentle as she could be.”

Cindy Ellen is a good cowgirl and able to rope and gallop with the best cowboys on the range. Because of this, the sisters are terribly mean and ugly to Cindy Ellen by making her do all of the “dirty work” around the ranch. When Cindy Ellen is kept from going to a two-day celebration given by the “biggest cattle king for miles around”, Cindy Ellen’s pistol packing fairy godmother shows up to make sure that she is given her chance to shine. All she needs, she tells her, is a little “gumption”. Of course, Cindy Ellen wins the rodeo, and is the prettiest girl at the square dance but instead of losing her shoe at the dance she loses one of her diamond spurs. Joe Prince tracks through the territory vowing to marry the woman whose boot fits the spur. He finally finds Cindy Ellen and they get hitched and live happily ever after in a “ranch house full of love and rodeo trophies”.

Critical Analysis
Not only is this an engaging revision of the classic Cinderella Tale, it has a good message for children. The characters and dialogue are original, but remain authentic to the story. When Cindy asks her fairy godmother if she can help her, she replies, “Maybe si, maybe no. Magic is plumb worthless without gumption.” In essence, she is telling Cindy that she is going to have to have the courage to make sensible decisions and that she is going to have to stick with them or the magic will be of no use. This lets children know the importance of being true to your word as well as true to yourself.

The illustrations, done in watercolor, are detailed and colorful. Children will love her fancy cowboy dress, her cowboy boots, and her diamond studded stirrups. The text is lengthy but lively and is a wonderful read-aloud. It may be a bit too long for younger children, but older elementary students will listen enthusiastically until the very end.

Review Excerpt(s)
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY review: “Savory slang adds punch to this tale, which stresses the fairy godmother's message that `magic is plumb worthless without gumption.' Illustrations lush with cactus-flower colors and pale maize gold enhance this rawhide-and-lace fantasy.”
KIRKUS REVIEWS: “From the author of The Bootmaker and the Elves (1997), another ripsnortin' Western take on a traditional fairy tale. Thanks to a spirited fairy godmother who gets all the best lines—" ‘Remember, there ain't no horse that can't be rode, and there ain't no man that can't be throwed!' "—Cindy Ellen does make the local cattle baron's rodeo and followup square dance, proves herself a roping, riding champion, and ultimately hitches up with the rancher's son Joe Prince.

Connections
This story would be a great way to compare and contrast different versions of the Cinderella story. Read several versions and then split the students into groups. Give each group of students a different version and have them do a report on their story. After each group reports back to the class, make a large chart with similarities and differences of each.
Other versions of Cinderella:
Louie, Ai-Ling. YEH-SHEN: A CINDERELLA STORY FROM CHINA. ISBN 0698113888
Climo, Shirley. THE KOREAN CINDERELLA. ISBN 0064433978
Hickox, Rebecca. GOLDEN SANDAL: A MIDDLE EASTERN CINDERELLA STORY. ISBN 0823415139
San Souci, Robert D. CENDRILLON: A CARRIBEAN CINDERELLA STORY. ISBN 0689848889

Picture Book Review : Book About the Creation of Children's Picture Books

Book Cover Photo Source: Powell's Books, http://www.powells.com/cgi-bin/biblio?inkey=2-9780689803109-1, accessed September 15, 2008.

Bibliography
Cummings, Pat. 1995. TALKING WITH ARTISTS, VOL. II. New York, NY: Simon and Schuster Children’s Publishing. ISBN 0698803109

Plot Summary
In her second of a series of three, Pat Cummings brings us 13 new-distinguished illustrators to highlight in the world of children’s literature. These artists talk about their art at an early age, what techniques they now use, if they have children/pets and answer other questions children ask most often.

Critical Analysis
In this work of non-fiction, Pat Cummings takes us through the process that each artist uses when creating his/her illustrations for a book. The artists chosen use a variety of mediums and work in many different styles.

The artists each answer eight questions that have come from letters the author has received from children who like making art. In the book you not only get to see what their work looked like at an early age but what they looked like. Illustrations from current works are also included. Unlike the first volume, this time you also get to see what kind of environment each artist works in. The artists each talk about some of the challenges they have faced and give encouragement to young aspiring artists everywhere.

Although this book interested me because I really LOVE some of their work, it started to get repetitious towards the end. If you are looking for information about a particular artist, it is a good place to start and the techniques that each artist uses at the end of the book are especially insightful.

Review Excerpts(s)
Review from SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “The profiles exemplify the artists' backgrounds, ordinary or extraordinary lifestyles, and creative strengths.”
Review from HORN BOOK: “As always, the comments are revealing, from the iconoclastic observation of Maira Kalman that she begins her day by reading "the obituaries to remind myself that I am still alive" to Vera Williams's description of her encounter, at age eight, with Eleanor Roosevelt.”

Connections
This would be a great book to use when talking about different mediums that illustrators use. From pastels and colored pencils, to pulp painting, scratchboard, and paper cutting, there are many opportunities for aspiring artists to learn about the different ways of making art that await them.

Other books written and illustrated by Pat Cummings
Clean Your Room, Harvey Moon ISBN 0689717989
Ananse and the Wizard: A West African Tale ISBN 0805064761Angel Baby ISBN 0688148220

Picture Book Review: Caldecott Award Book

Book Cover Photo Source: Barnes and Noble, http://search.barnesandnoble.com/Kittens-First-Full-Moon/Kevin-Henkes/e/9780060588281/?itm=6, accessed September 14, 2008.

Bibliography
Henkes, Kevin. 2004. KITTENS FIRST FULL MOON. New York, NY: HarperCollins. ISBN 0060588284.

Plot Summary
In Kitten’s First Full Moon, Kevin Henkes tells the story of kittens first time to see a full moon in the sky. Kitten thinks the moon is a bowl of milk and tries desperately to get to it without success. After a long night of chasing the moon, kitten returns home to find a bowl of milk waiting for her on the porch.

Critical Analysis
This is a story for very young children who will be captivated by the illustrations and easy text. “It was Kitten’s first full moon. When she saw it, she thought, there’s a little bowl of milk in the sky. And she wanted it.” The author takes us on a journey from Kitten’s front porch, through the garden, past the field, and eventually up the highest tree she can find, trying to get the bowl of milk in the sky. Children everywhere will relate to wanting something so badly in this wonderful story.

Kevin Henkes beautiful black-and-white illustrations compliment the text perfectly. His use of wide black lines and shades of grey show us how a full moon laminates the night sky. His simple use of shape and line are easily recognizable to even the youngest of readers. The way that Kitten’s expressions change with each emotion will have children feeling the same way that Kitten does with each turn of the page.

This is a perfect book for preschool and kindergarten aged children. The uncomplicated text and charming illustrations will have them cheering for Kitten to finally reach her bowl of milk in the sky.

Review Excerpt(s)
Starred review in BOOKLIST: “Henkes' text, reminiscent of Margaret Wise Brown's work in the elemental words, rhythms, and appealing sounds, tells a warm, humorous story that's beautifully extended in his shimmering, gray-toned artwork.”
Review in SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “The rhythmic text and delightful artwork ensure storytime success.”

Connections
This book would be a great choice when talking about shapes. There are many connections from the moon in the sky to pads of Kitten’s feet. You could also bring in the difference between night and day and talk about what happens with the earth when the sun goes down and the moon comes up.

Other Books By Kevin Henkes:
A Good Day ISBN 0061552054
Owen ISBN 0688114490
Sheila Rae the Brave ISBN 0688147380
Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse ISBN 0688128971
Old Bear ISBN 0061552054

Picture Book Review: Written and Illustrated by Mo Willems

Book Cover Photo Source: Wikipedia page, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Knuffle_Bunny, accessed September 13, 2008.

Bibliography
Willems, Mo. 2004. KNUFFLE BUNNY: A Cautionary Tale. New York, NY: Hyperion Books for Children. ISBN 0786855932.

Plot Summary
In this book, Mo Willems tells a familiar story of a child losing a cherished toy. A father and daughter go to the Laundromat to do the wash and unbeknownst to the child, her “Knuffle Bunny” gets mixed in with the clothes and thus, accidentally left behind. As they walk back home, Trixie realizes that Knuffle Bunny is no longer with her. She tries to tell her daddy what is wrong, but since she cannot yet talk he doesn’t understand her. In an effort to get her point across, she cries, bawls and eventually collapses into a boneless heap. It is not until they arrive home and her mommy asks, “Where’s Knuffle Bunny?” does her daddy realize what has been wrong with Trixie on the way home. The whole family runs back to the Laundromat and after much searching finally find Trixie’s Knuffle Bunny. As the daddy is pulling the stuffed toy from the dryer, Trixie shouts her first words; “Knuffle Bunny”!

Critical Analysis
Willem’s simple text is wonderful for young children. The story is simple and something that they can easily identify with. Adults who read this story to their children or students will be able to discuss with them something that they have lost and how it made them feel. This will allow for great interaction between reader and listener.

The illustrations in this book complement the text perfectly. The photographs in the background are easily recognizable by the youngest of readers and are done in muted black and white and sepia tones. The cartoon illustrations that make up the family are done with simple lines and bright colors. Even as Trixie and her dad walk out of the Laundromat, Knuffle Bunny is easily found in the washing machines window. The facial expressions and mannerisms of the characters in the book will allow children to identify with the emotions being felt as each page is turned.

This is a great book to share with young readers. The simple text is easy enough for beginning readers and children everywhere will be able to identify with the characters within these pages.

Review Excerpt(s)
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL review: “This amusing, universal tale is cleverly illustrated with hand-drawn cartoons juxtaposed onto digital photographs that reflect a well-traveled and familiar city neighborhood route.”
Starred review in BOOKLIST: “Even children who can already talk a blue streak will come away satisfied that their own strong emotions have been mirrored and legitimized, and readers of all ages will recognize the agonizing frustration of a little girl who knows far more than she can articulate.”
HORNBOOK: “This everyday drama will immediately register with even pre-verbal listeners.”

Connections
This is a great story to use when talking about emotions. The characters in the book go through a range of emotions including happy, sad, excited, mad, frustrated, worried, relief and many others. This would be a great way to discuss these with young children and have them match the emotion to the page where it is occurring.

Other books written and illustrated by Mo Williams include:
Knuffle Bunny Too ISBN 1423102991
Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! ISBN 0786819881

Leonardo, the Terrible Monster ISBN 0786852941

Edwina, the Dinosaur who Didn’t Know She Was Extinct ISBN 0786837489

The Pigeon Finds a Hot Dog! ISBN 0786818697

The Pigeon Has Feelings, Too! ISBN 0786836504

Time to Say “Please”! ISBN 0786852933

LS 5603-21 Literature for Children & Young Adults, Fall 2008

This blog will be changing directions and will now be used to post book reviews for LS 5603, Literature for Children and Young Adults. This class is being taught by Dr. Sylvia Vardell and is part of the requirements for the MLS program at Texas Woman's University in Denton, Texas. I am starting my first year as a school librarian and am looking forward to delving into the world of children's literature. I have been an avid reader for as long as I can remember and enjoy instilling that love of reading into my students!

Competency #9-Internet

The website I chose to share is libraryspot.com. This website has anything and everything you could ever want or need pertaining to libraries.

http://www.libraryspot.com/

Competency #8-Multimedia

TLA Conference 2008
I chose this picture because I attended the conference last week and I learned so much! All of the vendors were great and the speakers I heard really got me excited about what I am doing. You can find more information on their conference blog at :

http://www.txlablog.org/

And more picture of the conference at:

http://flickr.com/photos/geekyartistlibrarian/sets/72157604577496414/

Competency #6-Successive Fractions, LibLit

Step One:

Search results:
472 Records found for (elementary school libraries) Smart Search

Step Two:

Search results:
35 Records found for (elementary school libraries) Smart Search AND (classrooms) Smart Search

Step Three:

Search Results:
21 Records found for (elementary school libraries)Smart Search AND (classrooms) Smart Search AND (teachers) Smart Search

Step Four:
Search Results:
4 Records found for (elementary school libraries) Smart Search AND (classrooms) Smart Search AND (teachers) AND (collaboration)
All 4 records look relevant to the search.

Competency #6-Specific Facet, ERIC Internet

Since my area of focus is how school librarians can connect with classrooms in their buildings, I did a search for elementary school libraries and classroom teachers.

I am including hit #4. There were 6 total.

Title:
The Changed Role of the Elementary Library Media Teacher.Find More Like This
Author(s):
Jay, M. Ellen; Jay, Hilda L.
Source:
Reference Librarian, n44 p61-69 1994.
ISSN:
0276-3877
Descriptors:
Administrator Role, Change Strategies, Elementary Education, Learning Activities, Learning Resources Centers, Librarians, Library Instruction, Library Role, Library Skills, Media Specialists, Principals, Research Methodology, School Libraries
Identifiers:
Librarian Teacher Cooperation, Role Shift
Abstract:
Discusses changes in the role of the elementary school library media specialist. Highlights include cooperation with classroom teachers and administrators; the role of the school principal; actions to initiate change; structuring research for students' success; and sample library instructional activities. (LRW)
Notes:
Theme issue topic: "School Library Reference Services in the 90s: Where We Are, Where We're Heading." Guest editor: Carol Truett.
Language:
English
Publication Type:
Opinion Papers; Reports - Descriptive; Journal Articles
Journal Code:
CIJDEC1994
Entry Date:
1994
Accession Number:
EJ488274
Persistent link to this record:
http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=eric&AN=EJ488274&site=ehost-live
Database:
ERIC
View Links:
Available TWU catalog Find Full-Text
Notes:
This title is available at the TWU Library

Competency #6 - Building Block, Lexis

10th Hit - Grande Prairie schools to participate in Family Literacy DayThe Daily Herald-Tribune (Grande Prairie, Alberta), January 23, 2008 Wednesday, NEWS; Pg. 5, 382 words, BY DAMIEN WOOD, HERALD-TRIBUNE STAFF

Tagging: Competency #5

Tag Cloud:
(paperback)(1) 3(1) 3.2(4) @work(1) apt(1) back to school(1) Black Lagoon(3) Black Lagoon Series(2) BLD Donation(1) books(4) books and reading(1) children(6) children's(10) children's literature(2) childrens book(1) circ(1) Compare/Contrast(1) df(1) Favorite Series(1) fiction(11) gift(1) humor(3) humour(1) Jokes & Riddles(1) juvenile fiction(3) JuvLit(1) librarians(11) librarianship(2) libraries(10) library(4) library science(1) Light Orange(1) Mike Thaler(1) own(3) parents(1) pic(2) picture book(12) points 0.5(1) read(4) reading(2) scary(1) School(10) School from the Black Lagoon(1) September books(1) storytime(1) truffins(1) Wisconsin(1) young adult(1)

http://www.librarything.com/work/94355

I selected the tags from the book "The Librarian from the Black Lagoon" by Mike Thaler. As a teacher and future school librarian, these books are a funny way to introduce young students to all of the different people who work in a school. The students always love them!

RSS - Competency #4

The American Association of School Librarians offers an RSS feed. You can see new postings on the left side of my blog. Their actual blog address is http://blogs.ala.org/aasl.php.

Podcasts: Competency #3

On the TeacherTube site I found a series of podcasts called "Librarian and Classroom Teacher Collaboration". There are 4 parts to this podcast. I chose the second part because it discusses 4 ways in which librarians are educators. 1. They teach information literacy. 2. They work to be an instructional partner. 3. They are an information resource. 4. They are advocates for free choice reading. On my original posting I said that I wanted to look at ways to link the library and the classroom. This podcast shows ways in which to do that. It is sometimes silly, but it gets the point across. You can find it at:

http://www.teachertube.com/view_video.php?viewkey=4323e6b987a5923becb9

Media Center Blog: Competency #2

The blog that I am posting is from an elementary school in Virginia. The school's librarian has created this blog for students to post a weekly reading log about the books they are reading. There is also a place for them to post why they really liked a certain book. This is an innovative way to get the students writing about what they are reading and a great way to connect to classrooms. The blog is located at http://aleslmc.edublogs.org/.

The Library Media Specialist of the School writes: "This blog is set up to allow students to write about the books they are reading. The goal is to combine two essential lifelong learning skills, reading and writing, using 21st century tools."

Blog Introduction

The purpose of creating this blog is to fulfill the requirements of ISAR 5013 at Texas Women's University. Through this blog I will complete competencies for the course, share information and ideas with my fellow students, and develop knowledge of the field of Library and Information Sciences.

My focus of attention will be Elementary School Librarians. More specifically, what is the best way for librarians to connect to classrooms throughout their buildings?