Cleary, Beverly. The Mouse and the Motorcycle. Rayo (2003). ISBN-10: 0060000570
Plot Summary
In Beverly Cleary’s The Mouse and the Motorcycle Keith leaves his toy motorcycle on the bedside table at the hotel where his family is staying. When Ralph, a young mouse, scampers up the telephone cord, he tries the motorcycle on for size. Ralph soon discovers that the motorcycle is a great fit, so he hopps on and scoots the bike around by his feet. Then, a terrible thing happens—the telephone beside him rings! He crash lands into the trashcan! He fears that the maid will soon come to empty and burn the trash in an incinerator. Keith saves Ralph and a true friendship develops between the two of them.
Critical Evaluation
The Mouse and the Motorcycle is a lovely story about friendship. Keith and Ralph develop an unlikely bond as they share a tiny red motorcycle. Students (and adults) will enjoy the storyline, as it is full of humor and adventure.
Reader's Annotation
An unlikely friendship develops between Keith and a mouse called Ralph.
About the Author
Beverly Cleary was born Beverly Bunn on April 12, 1916. Her mother, Mable, was a school teacher, and her father, Chester, was a farmer. They lived in Yamhill, Oregon, on the family farm. Beverly was the only child of the family. Growing up, Beverly’s mother taught her that reading was an important and pleasant activity. She recalls, “My mother read aloud every evening to my father and me. She read many books. She really read quite a variety of things, and I loved those evenings. I wish more people read aloud.”
Beverly’s family moved from the farm to the city of Portland, Oregon, when she was just six. During Beverly’s first year in school year, she missed many days from school for chicken pox and small pox. As a result, she began to struggle with her reading so her teacher placed her in the lowest reading group. She remembers, “I was hopelessly lost in reading.” Later, Beverly’s second grade teacher helped her improve her reading skills, but Beverly did not enjoy reading outside of school. One day, her mother found a box of books in the Sunday school basement. One book was The Dutch Twins, and Beverly finally had a book she truly enjoyed reading.
When Beverly went to college, she worked as a children’s librarian. She noticed many boring children’s books there and thought to herself, “I can write a better story than that!” When she finally began to write, she knew she wanted to write about ordinary children doing ordinary things. Her first book was a humorous book about an average boy named Henry Huggins. Mrs. Cleary wrote several books about Henry and his dog Ribsy.
Another series of books by Beverly Cleary are about a girl named Ramona. Ramona began as an extra character in the Henry Huggins stories, but her publisher suggested she write a book just about Ramona. The Ramona books are probably Cleary’s most popular books. (I loved these books when I was growing up!) Mrs. Cleary has written many other books. Most are humorous, and all are about ordinary kids. Even though some of her books were written many years ago, they are still enjoyed by readers today because they are about the funny things that happen to regular children all the time.
Genre
Fiction (humor)
Fiction (action and adventure)
Curriculum Ties
Language Arts
Booktalking Ideas
Read aloud from the book:
That half ring was enough. It shattered Ralph’s nerves and terrified him so that he forgot all about steering. The momentum of the motorcycle carried him forward, over the edge of the table. Down, down through space tumbled Ralph with the motorcycle. . . He grabbed in vain at the air with both paws. There was nothing . . . to save him . . . That was the instant the motorcycle landed with a crash in the metal wastebasket. Ralph fell in a heap beside the motorcycle and lay still.
How will Ralph get out of the wastebasket before the maid comes to burn the trash in the incinerator? Find out how and enjoy many more adventures with Ralph by reading The Mouse and the Motorcycle by Beverly Cleary.
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 8+
Reason for Book Selection
When I taught English Language Learners several years ago, they absolutely loved this book. What a timeless classic!
Showing posts with label Books...Fiction. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Books...Fiction. Show all posts
Friday, December 4, 2009
Cleary, Beverly. Ribsy. HarperCollins (1992). ISBN-10: 0380709554
Plot Summary
Ribsy’s problems all began with a hungry flea. That pesky flea hid under his dog collar, biting Ribsy over and over again. Ribsy’s owner, a boy named Henry Huggins, took Ribsy’s collar off so Ribsy could have a good scratch. When the family heads over to the shopping mall, they leave Ribsy in the car. After he accidentally escapes, he gets lost without his collar. Eventually, a family full of little children takes him home. And, Ribsy’s troubles only get worse—the children of the family give him a bath!
Critical Evaluation
I have always been fond of “dog” books. Children, especially, can relate to Henry Huggins’s determination to find his missing dog. The book is easy to read, and it is holds the attention of younger readers. Both boys and girls will find this book a joy to read.
Reader's Annotation
Henry Huggins’s dog, Ribsy, gets into some trouble after discovering a flea and having his collar is removed.
About the Author
Beverly Cleary was born Beverly Bunn on April 12, 1916. Her mother, Mable, was a school teacher, and her father, Chester, was a farmer. They lived in Yamhill, Oregon, on the family farm. Beverly was the only child of the family. Growing up, Beverly’s mother taught her that reading was an important and pleasant activity. She recalls, “My mother read aloud every evening to my father and me. She read many books. She really read quite a variety of things, and I loved those evenings. I wish more people read aloud.”
Beverly’s family moved from the farm to the city of Portland, Oregon, when she was just six. During Beverly’s first year in school year, she missed many days from school for chicken pox and small pox. As a result, she began to struggle with her reading so her teacher placed her in the lowest reading group. She remembers, “I was hopelessly lost in reading.” Later, Beverly’s second grade teacher helped her improve her reading skills, but Beverly did not enjoy reading outside of school. One day, her mother found a box of books in the Sunday school basement. One book was The Dutch Twins, and Beverly finally had a book she truly enjoyed reading.
When Beverly went to college, she worked as a children’s librarian. She noticed many boring children’s books there and thought to herself, “I can write a better story than that!” When she finally began writing, she knew she wanted to write about ordinary children doing ordinary things. Her first book was a humorous book about an average boy named Henry Huggins. Mrs. Cleary wrote several books about Henry and his dog Ribsy.
Another series of books by Beverly Cleary are about a girl named Ramona. Ramona began as an extra character in the Henry Huggins stories, but her publisher suggested she write a book just about Ramona. The Ramona books are probably Cleary’s most popular books. (I loved these books when I was growing up!) Mrs. Cleary has written many other books. Most are humorous, and all are about ordinary kids. Even though some of her books were written many years ago, they are still enjoyed by readers today because they are about the funny things that happen to regular children all the time.
Genre
Fiction (humor)
Curriculum Ties
Language Arts
Booktalking Ideas
Read aloud from the book:
Water splashed all over the row of four little girls, who screamed with delight and would not let him out of the tub. Ribsy barked to tell them he did not like this one bit. . . The four little girls took their washcloths and went to work. Their efforts made Ribsy even more miserable. He was sad and he was soggy. Then two fat little hands, one of them clutching a plastic bottle, pushed between the girls. Crowing with delight at his own cleverness, George emptied an entire bottle of violet-scented bubble bath over Ribsy.
Will this bath ever end? Will Ribsy find his way back to his best friend, Henry Huggins? To read about this dog’s many adventures, check out the book Ribsy by Beverly Cleary.
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 9-12
Reason for Book Selection
I distinctly remember reading many Beverly Cleary books as a child. If I remember correctly, her works are what inspired me to go to the library. And, this book, in particular remind me of my own dog – a modern day Ribsy!
Plot Summary
Ribsy’s problems all began with a hungry flea. That pesky flea hid under his dog collar, biting Ribsy over and over again. Ribsy’s owner, a boy named Henry Huggins, took Ribsy’s collar off so Ribsy could have a good scratch. When the family heads over to the shopping mall, they leave Ribsy in the car. After he accidentally escapes, he gets lost without his collar. Eventually, a family full of little children takes him home. And, Ribsy’s troubles only get worse—the children of the family give him a bath!
Critical Evaluation
I have always been fond of “dog” books. Children, especially, can relate to Henry Huggins’s determination to find his missing dog. The book is easy to read, and it is holds the attention of younger readers. Both boys and girls will find this book a joy to read.
Reader's Annotation
Henry Huggins’s dog, Ribsy, gets into some trouble after discovering a flea and having his collar is removed.
About the Author
Beverly Cleary was born Beverly Bunn on April 12, 1916. Her mother, Mable, was a school teacher, and her father, Chester, was a farmer. They lived in Yamhill, Oregon, on the family farm. Beverly was the only child of the family. Growing up, Beverly’s mother taught her that reading was an important and pleasant activity. She recalls, “My mother read aloud every evening to my father and me. She read many books. She really read quite a variety of things, and I loved those evenings. I wish more people read aloud.”
Beverly’s family moved from the farm to the city of Portland, Oregon, when she was just six. During Beverly’s first year in school year, she missed many days from school for chicken pox and small pox. As a result, she began to struggle with her reading so her teacher placed her in the lowest reading group. She remembers, “I was hopelessly lost in reading.” Later, Beverly’s second grade teacher helped her improve her reading skills, but Beverly did not enjoy reading outside of school. One day, her mother found a box of books in the Sunday school basement. One book was The Dutch Twins, and Beverly finally had a book she truly enjoyed reading.
When Beverly went to college, she worked as a children’s librarian. She noticed many boring children’s books there and thought to herself, “I can write a better story than that!” When she finally began writing, she knew she wanted to write about ordinary children doing ordinary things. Her first book was a humorous book about an average boy named Henry Huggins. Mrs. Cleary wrote several books about Henry and his dog Ribsy.
Another series of books by Beverly Cleary are about a girl named Ramona. Ramona began as an extra character in the Henry Huggins stories, but her publisher suggested she write a book just about Ramona. The Ramona books are probably Cleary’s most popular books. (I loved these books when I was growing up!) Mrs. Cleary has written many other books. Most are humorous, and all are about ordinary kids. Even though some of her books were written many years ago, they are still enjoyed by readers today because they are about the funny things that happen to regular children all the time.
Genre
Fiction (humor)
Curriculum Ties
Language Arts
Booktalking Ideas
Read aloud from the book:
Water splashed all over the row of four little girls, who screamed with delight and would not let him out of the tub. Ribsy barked to tell them he did not like this one bit. . . The four little girls took their washcloths and went to work. Their efforts made Ribsy even more miserable. He was sad and he was soggy. Then two fat little hands, one of them clutching a plastic bottle, pushed between the girls. Crowing with delight at his own cleverness, George emptied an entire bottle of violet-scented bubble bath over Ribsy.
Will this bath ever end? Will Ribsy find his way back to his best friend, Henry Huggins? To read about this dog’s many adventures, check out the book Ribsy by Beverly Cleary.
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 9-12
Reason for Book Selection
I distinctly remember reading many Beverly Cleary books as a child. If I remember correctly, her works are what inspired me to go to the library. And, this book, in particular remind me of my own dog – a modern day Ribsy!
Yee, Lisa. Stanford Wong Flunks Big-Time. Scholastic Paperbacks (2007). ISBN-10: 0439622484
Plot Summary
Stanford Wong's life passion is basketball. He is unable to go to summer basketball camp because he flunked English. Not only did he flunk English, but his report card, with a big red F, is posted on the refrigerator. Stanford’s dad is furious with him about his grades. So, his parents hire a tutor, of all people, Millicent Min! Stanford thinks Millicent is “a jerk and poster girl for Chinese geekdom.” Stanford ends up sneaking to summer school because he doesn’t want his basketball friends to know that he has flunked English. Stanford’s summer takes a turn for the better when he meets a friend of Millicent’s, the beautiful Emily Ebers. In trying to improve his looks and impress Emily, Stanford decides to go to a fancy hair salon instead of “Super Fast Cuts” to get his hair done. Stanford is used to paying $12.00 at Super Fast Cuts and when he is told he owes one-twenty for his new style he almost dies.
Critical Evaluation
Stanford Wong Flunks Big-Time is Lisa Yee’s second novel, and it is hilarious! Lisa Yee’s use of language and nicknames are very funny. For example, Stanford nicknames himself SSSSpy for “Super Stealth Stanford Spy” as he ducks from cover on the way so school. Stanford’s nickname for Mr. Glick, his summer school teacher, is “Teacher Torturer.” And, Millicent’s nickname for Stanford is “Stanj-turd.” Another example of Yees funny play on words is when Stanford is talking about what Millicent is making him read: “The Mixed-up files of Ms. Franks and Beans, or something like that.”
Reader's Annotation
Stanford Wong earns and F in English and later discovers that Millicent Min, the social out cast, is going to be his tutor.
About the Author
Growing up, Lisa attended Alhambra High School in California, and she was on the debate team and a member of the honor society. At USC, she majored in English and Humanities. During her time at USC, Lisa interned at KCET, the L.A. PBS station, and she worked on an interactive kid’s magazine. After college, Lisa held numerous positions, some including: copywriter, associate director of a creative think tank, account executive for 7-Up Foods, and writer/producer for Walt Disney World.
Today, Lisa Yee is the author of Millicent Min, Girl Genius, Stanford Wong Flunks Big Time, So Totally Emily Ebers, and Good Luck, Ivy! Her novels have received numerous honors. Her first novel, Millicent Min, Girl Genius, won the Sid Fleishchman Humor Award.
Genre
Realistic Fiction (humor)
Curriculum Ties
Language Arts
Booktalking Ideas
Poor Stanford! After earning an F in English, Stanford’s parents hire Millicent Min to be his tutor. But, Millicent and Stanford despise each other! Stanford, however, has big worries.
Will he be able to pass summer school, handle Millicent Min, and impress Emily Ebers? Will Stanford be able to deal with his angry father who is up for a promotion and does nothing but work and fight with his mother? And, to top it off, Stanford’s perfect sister Sarah is coming home over the Fourth of July holiday! Find out what happens with Stanford Wong in Lisa Yee’s Stanford Wong Flunks Big-Time. This book will have you laughing out loud in no time!
Reading Level/Interest Age
Grades 4-7
Reason for Book Selection
This books is the follow-up to Millicent Min: Girl Genius. Because I laughed so much in the first book, I thought I ought to read the second. I’m glad I did!
Plot Summary
Stanford Wong's life passion is basketball. He is unable to go to summer basketball camp because he flunked English. Not only did he flunk English, but his report card, with a big red F, is posted on the refrigerator. Stanford’s dad is furious with him about his grades. So, his parents hire a tutor, of all people, Millicent Min! Stanford thinks Millicent is “a jerk and poster girl for Chinese geekdom.” Stanford ends up sneaking to summer school because he doesn’t want his basketball friends to know that he has flunked English. Stanford’s summer takes a turn for the better when he meets a friend of Millicent’s, the beautiful Emily Ebers. In trying to improve his looks and impress Emily, Stanford decides to go to a fancy hair salon instead of “Super Fast Cuts” to get his hair done. Stanford is used to paying $12.00 at Super Fast Cuts and when he is told he owes one-twenty for his new style he almost dies.
Critical Evaluation
Stanford Wong Flunks Big-Time is Lisa Yee’s second novel, and it is hilarious! Lisa Yee’s use of language and nicknames are very funny. For example, Stanford nicknames himself SSSSpy for “Super Stealth Stanford Spy” as he ducks from cover on the way so school. Stanford’s nickname for Mr. Glick, his summer school teacher, is “Teacher Torturer.” And, Millicent’s nickname for Stanford is “Stanj-turd.” Another example of Yees funny play on words is when Stanford is talking about what Millicent is making him read: “The Mixed-up files of Ms. Franks and Beans, or something like that.”
Reader's Annotation
Stanford Wong earns and F in English and later discovers that Millicent Min, the social out cast, is going to be his tutor.
About the Author
Growing up, Lisa attended Alhambra High School in California, and she was on the debate team and a member of the honor society. At USC, she majored in English and Humanities. During her time at USC, Lisa interned at KCET, the L.A. PBS station, and she worked on an interactive kid’s magazine. After college, Lisa held numerous positions, some including: copywriter, associate director of a creative think tank, account executive for 7-Up Foods, and writer/producer for Walt Disney World.
Today, Lisa Yee is the author of Millicent Min, Girl Genius, Stanford Wong Flunks Big Time, So Totally Emily Ebers, and Good Luck, Ivy! Her novels have received numerous honors. Her first novel, Millicent Min, Girl Genius, won the Sid Fleishchman Humor Award.
Genre
Realistic Fiction (humor)
Curriculum Ties
Language Arts
Booktalking Ideas
Poor Stanford! After earning an F in English, Stanford’s parents hire Millicent Min to be his tutor. But, Millicent and Stanford despise each other! Stanford, however, has big worries.
Will he be able to pass summer school, handle Millicent Min, and impress Emily Ebers? Will Stanford be able to deal with his angry father who is up for a promotion and does nothing but work and fight with his mother? And, to top it off, Stanford’s perfect sister Sarah is coming home over the Fourth of July holiday! Find out what happens with Stanford Wong in Lisa Yee’s Stanford Wong Flunks Big-Time. This book will have you laughing out loud in no time!
Reading Level/Interest Age
Grades 4-7
Reason for Book Selection
This books is the follow-up to Millicent Min: Girl Genius. Because I laughed so much in the first book, I thought I ought to read the second. I’m glad I did!
Yee, Lisa. Millicent Min, Girl Genius. Scholastic Paperbacks (2004). ISBN-10: 0439425204
Plot Summary
Millicent Min, Girl Genius is Lisa Yee’s first novel about an eleven-year-old genius who is a social out cast. Millicent Min, also known as Millie, is funny and quirky. Millie happens to be having a bad summer. She is hated by her peers for going to high school and setting the curve, her grandmother Maddie is moving, and her parents signed her up for volleyball. To top it off she has to tutor Stanford Wong. However, Millie’s summer takes a turn for the better when she meets Emily. Emily thinks Millie’s cool, but she doesn’t know she’s a genius. Millie worries constantly that Emily will find out. They quickly become best friends, but Emily becomes terribly upset when she finds out Millie has lied to her. Throughout the novel, Millie thinks her mother is dying throughout the story. It turns out towards the end of the book that Millie’s mom was pregnant!
Critical Evaluation
This book is hysterically funny. Millicent's ridiculous antics and over the top way of thinking truly make this book a laugh-out-loud comic. Her interactions with other children are realistic, and her fears are honest fears that students her age encounter.
Reader's Annotation
Millicent Min is smarter than most people she knows, and she is considered a social out cast. That is, of course, before she meets Emily.
About the Author
Growing up, Lisa attended Alhambra High School in California, and she was on the debate team and a member of the honor society. At USC, she majored in English and Humanities. During her time at USC, Lisa interned at KCET, the L.A. PBS station, and she worked on an interactive kid’s magazine. After college, Lisa held numerous positions, some including: copywriter, associate director of a creative think tank, account executive for 7-Up Foods, and writer/producer for Walt Disney World.
Today, Lisa Yee is the author of Millicent Min, Girl Genius, Stanford Wong Flunks Big Time, So Totally Emily Ebers, and Good Luck, Ivy! Her novels have received numerous honors. Her first novel, Millicent Min, Girl Genius, won the Sid Fleishchman Humor Award.
Genre
Realistic Ficiton (humor)
Curriculum Ties
Language Arts, Social Science
Booktalking Ideas
Millicent Min is a girl genius who is having a terrible summer. She has no friends, she finds out that her grandmother is moving, and she discovers that she has to tutor Stanford Wong. On page 52 she says, “It isn’t just that Sanford is stupid, it’s that he’s spectacularly stupid. Words float in through one ear and out the other. Books go unread.” If you’d like to know more about Millie, then read Millicent Min: Girl Genius by Lisa Yee.
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 8+
Reason for Book Selection
I have spent the last several years teaching students who are considered “gifted.” Millicent’s quirkiness reminds me of many of my own students throughout the years.
Plot Summary
Millicent Min, Girl Genius is Lisa Yee’s first novel about an eleven-year-old genius who is a social out cast. Millicent Min, also known as Millie, is funny and quirky. Millie happens to be having a bad summer. She is hated by her peers for going to high school and setting the curve, her grandmother Maddie is moving, and her parents signed her up for volleyball. To top it off she has to tutor Stanford Wong. However, Millie’s summer takes a turn for the better when she meets Emily. Emily thinks Millie’s cool, but she doesn’t know she’s a genius. Millie worries constantly that Emily will find out. They quickly become best friends, but Emily becomes terribly upset when she finds out Millie has lied to her. Throughout the novel, Millie thinks her mother is dying throughout the story. It turns out towards the end of the book that Millie’s mom was pregnant!
Critical Evaluation
This book is hysterically funny. Millicent's ridiculous antics and over the top way of thinking truly make this book a laugh-out-loud comic. Her interactions with other children are realistic, and her fears are honest fears that students her age encounter.
Reader's Annotation
Millicent Min is smarter than most people she knows, and she is considered a social out cast. That is, of course, before she meets Emily.
About the Author
Growing up, Lisa attended Alhambra High School in California, and she was on the debate team and a member of the honor society. At USC, she majored in English and Humanities. During her time at USC, Lisa interned at KCET, the L.A. PBS station, and she worked on an interactive kid’s magazine. After college, Lisa held numerous positions, some including: copywriter, associate director of a creative think tank, account executive for 7-Up Foods, and writer/producer for Walt Disney World.
Today, Lisa Yee is the author of Millicent Min, Girl Genius, Stanford Wong Flunks Big Time, So Totally Emily Ebers, and Good Luck, Ivy! Her novels have received numerous honors. Her first novel, Millicent Min, Girl Genius, won the Sid Fleishchman Humor Award.
Genre
Realistic Ficiton (humor)
Curriculum Ties
Language Arts, Social Science
Booktalking Ideas
Millicent Min is a girl genius who is having a terrible summer. She has no friends, she finds out that her grandmother is moving, and she discovers that she has to tutor Stanford Wong. On page 52 she says, “It isn’t just that Sanford is stupid, it’s that he’s spectacularly stupid. Words float in through one ear and out the other. Books go unread.” If you’d like to know more about Millie, then read Millicent Min: Girl Genius by Lisa Yee.
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 8+
Reason for Book Selection
I have spent the last several years teaching students who are considered “gifted.” Millicent’s quirkiness reminds me of many of my own students throughout the years.
Alexie, Sherman. The Absolute True Diary of a Part-Time Indian. Little, Brown Books for Young Readers (2007). ISBN-10: 0316013684
Plot Summary
Arnold is a Spokane Indian who lives on a reservation where opportunities for intellectual growth are limited. Arnold suffers the loss of many loved ones, and he learns to live with his father’s alcoholism. Eventually, he decides to attend school outside of the “rez,” which alienates many community members and his best friend Rowdy. He does, however, discover his academic abilities, and he learns to play the game of basketball better than he could ever have imagined.
Critical Evaluation
The Absolute True Diary of a Part-Time Indian is a surprising joy to read. Told in first person, readers learn to experience the trials and tribulations that Arnold experiences as an Indian who decides to attend school outside of the reservation. He suffers racism, problems with self-esteem, and the loss of family members. The book contains an abundance of themes for discussion. And, the story is a beautiful mixture of pleasure and pain.
Reader's Annotation
Arnold is an Indian boy who was born with water on the brain. He leaves his reservation to attend school where he believes he will find what he is looking for – a way out!
About the Author
Sherman Alexie was born on October 7, 1966. As a child, her grew up on the Spokane Indian Reservation in Wellpinit, Washington. His experiences on this reservation inspired the writing of his novel The Absolute True Diary of a Part-Time Indian and his later works entitled The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight in Heaven and Smoke Signals. Alexie has been named one of Granta’s Best Young American Novelists, and his book Indian Killer (1996), was a New York Times Notable Book.
Genre
Fiction: Humor
Curriculum Ties
Language Arts, Social Studies, Social Sciences
Booktalking Ideas
Arnold is a boy who was born with what they call water on the brain. He lives on a Native American/Indian Reservation where everyone knows everyone, and no one ever gets out. Arnold eventually discovers the world outside of the rez holds more opportunities than he could ever have imagined. Read Sherman Alexie’s Absolute True Diary of a Part-Time Indian. I guarantee, you will not be disappointed!
Reading Level/Interest Age
Young Adult
Reason for Book Selection
This book was my favorite read over the past couple of months. I laughed, cried, and felt emotionally drained when I was finished. And, that’s what I am always looking for in a good book!
Plot Summary
Arnold is a Spokane Indian who lives on a reservation where opportunities for intellectual growth are limited. Arnold suffers the loss of many loved ones, and he learns to live with his father’s alcoholism. Eventually, he decides to attend school outside of the “rez,” which alienates many community members and his best friend Rowdy. He does, however, discover his academic abilities, and he learns to play the game of basketball better than he could ever have imagined.
Critical Evaluation
The Absolute True Diary of a Part-Time Indian is a surprising joy to read. Told in first person, readers learn to experience the trials and tribulations that Arnold experiences as an Indian who decides to attend school outside of the reservation. He suffers racism, problems with self-esteem, and the loss of family members. The book contains an abundance of themes for discussion. And, the story is a beautiful mixture of pleasure and pain.
Reader's Annotation
Arnold is an Indian boy who was born with water on the brain. He leaves his reservation to attend school where he believes he will find what he is looking for – a way out!
About the Author
Sherman Alexie was born on October 7, 1966. As a child, her grew up on the Spokane Indian Reservation in Wellpinit, Washington. His experiences on this reservation inspired the writing of his novel The Absolute True Diary of a Part-Time Indian and his later works entitled The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight in Heaven and Smoke Signals. Alexie has been named one of Granta’s Best Young American Novelists, and his book Indian Killer (1996), was a New York Times Notable Book.
Genre
Fiction: Humor
Curriculum Ties
Language Arts, Social Studies, Social Sciences
Booktalking Ideas
Arnold is a boy who was born with what they call water on the brain. He lives on a Native American/Indian Reservation where everyone knows everyone, and no one ever gets out. Arnold eventually discovers the world outside of the rez holds more opportunities than he could ever have imagined. Read Sherman Alexie’s Absolute True Diary of a Part-Time Indian. I guarantee, you will not be disappointed!
Reading Level/Interest Age
Young Adult
Reason for Book Selection
This book was my favorite read over the past couple of months. I laughed, cried, and felt emotionally drained when I was finished. And, that’s what I am always looking for in a good book!
Soto, Gary. The Skirt. Delacorte Books for Young Readers (2008). ISBN-10: 0385306652
Plot Summary
The Skirt, written by Gary Soto, is the story of a Latina, Miata, who believes that the world will end if she does not perform in her dance recital. After losing her mother’s skirt, she makes a series of bad choices. She lies to cover up the fact that she took the skirt onto the bus even after he mother told her not to. In the end, however, she learns an important lesson.
Critical Evaluation
This book is unique in the sense that the main character is a not only a female, but she is also a Latina. The book is short, easy to read, and very appealing to young girls. Throughout the book, Soto describes the hurdles that Miata must go through to finally find the skirt she has lost. The story does a wonderful job exposing children to a different culture, and showing children that they are similar not matter what their nationality.
Reader's Annotation
Young Miata learns a valuable lesson after losing her mother’s skirt.
About the Author
As a child, Gary Soto never thought he would ever become a writer. He did know, however, that he did not want to work in the fields of Fresno, California.
When Soto was a young child, he suffered the loss of his Father, Manuel, who lost his life in a tragic industrial accident. After his father’s death, Soto’s family was left without any money, so they eventually moved to the San Joaquin Valley in search of work. Because his mother was an immigrant, and she had very little education, she began work “picking oranges, cotton, and grapes for very little pay.” She also accepted jobs at the packing houses of local business, which was often dangerous work. Gary, grew up very poor, and he lived in some of the poorest and most dangerous neighborhoods.
His experiences growing up are the subject and setting of many of his works. These include Baseball in April and Other Stories, Fearless Fernie, Canto Familiar, and Jesse.
Genre
Realistic Fiction
Curriculum Ties
Language Arts, Social Sciences, Art
Booktalking Ideas
Miata has lot her mother’s prized skirt! Although her mother tells her not to, Miata brings the skirt on the bus. Now, she is worried not only about disappointing her mother, but also about her upcoming performance in a dance recital. Will she find the skirt in time? To find out, read Gary Soto’s The Skirt.
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 8+
Reason for Book Selection
Soto does an amazing job teaching children a valuable lesson in this book.
Plot Summary
The Skirt, written by Gary Soto, is the story of a Latina, Miata, who believes that the world will end if she does not perform in her dance recital. After losing her mother’s skirt, she makes a series of bad choices. She lies to cover up the fact that she took the skirt onto the bus even after he mother told her not to. In the end, however, she learns an important lesson.
Critical Evaluation
This book is unique in the sense that the main character is a not only a female, but she is also a Latina. The book is short, easy to read, and very appealing to young girls. Throughout the book, Soto describes the hurdles that Miata must go through to finally find the skirt she has lost. The story does a wonderful job exposing children to a different culture, and showing children that they are similar not matter what their nationality.
Reader's Annotation
Young Miata learns a valuable lesson after losing her mother’s skirt.
About the Author
As a child, Gary Soto never thought he would ever become a writer. He did know, however, that he did not want to work in the fields of Fresno, California.
When Soto was a young child, he suffered the loss of his Father, Manuel, who lost his life in a tragic industrial accident. After his father’s death, Soto’s family was left without any money, so they eventually moved to the San Joaquin Valley in search of work. Because his mother was an immigrant, and she had very little education, she began work “picking oranges, cotton, and grapes for very little pay.” She also accepted jobs at the packing houses of local business, which was often dangerous work. Gary, grew up very poor, and he lived in some of the poorest and most dangerous neighborhoods.
His experiences growing up are the subject and setting of many of his works. These include Baseball in April and Other Stories, Fearless Fernie, Canto Familiar, and Jesse.
Genre
Realistic Fiction
Curriculum Ties
Language Arts, Social Sciences, Art
Booktalking Ideas
Miata has lot her mother’s prized skirt! Although her mother tells her not to, Miata brings the skirt on the bus. Now, she is worried not only about disappointing her mother, but also about her upcoming performance in a dance recital. Will she find the skirt in time? To find out, read Gary Soto’s The Skirt.
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 8+
Reason for Book Selection
Soto does an amazing job teaching children a valuable lesson in this book.
Soto, Gary. Baseball in April and Other Stories. Harcourt Paperbacks (2000). ISBN-10: 0152025677
Plot Summary
This book contains a collection of 11 short stories that showcase certain events in Soto’s life growing up in some of the poorest areas of California. Included within the collection are stories about spending time with his grandparents, riding bikes, family vacations, talking to girls, etc.
Critical Evaluation
Soto has always had a special talent for understanding what it’s like to grow up as a child. He especially focuses on the experiences that tend to relate to all children, not just those who are less fortunate. The stories are told from a child’s perspective, which allows readers to make a variety of connections.
Reader's Annotation
This book is a collection of 11 short stories.
About the Author
As a child, Gary Soto never thought he would ever become a writer. He did know, however, that he did not want to work in the fields of Fresno, California.
When Soto was a young child, he suffered the loss of his Father, Manuel, who lost his life in a tragic industrial accident. After his father’s death, Soto’s family was left without any money, so they eventually moved to the San Joaquin Valley in search of work. Because his mother was an immigrant, and she had very little education, she began work “picking oranges, cotton, and grapes for very little pay.” She also accepted jobs at the packing houses of local business, which was often dangerous work. Gary, grew up very poor, and he lived in some of the poorest and most dangerous neighborhoods.
His experiences growing up are the subject and setting of many of his works. These include The Skirt, Fearless Fernie, Canto Familiar, and Jesse.
Genre
Fiction: Short Stories
Curriculum Ties
Language Arts, Social Studies, Social Sciences
Booktalking Ideas
Have you ever read Baseball in April and Other Stories? If you have not, than you have not read one of American Library Association’s Best Books for Young Adults. The author of this book, Gary Soto is known as, “an author true to his Hispanic heritage and culture” because a great deal of the books and poems he has written are recollections of his life when he lived in Fresno, California as a young boy. Next time you visit the library, check out Baseball in April and Other Stories!
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 9-12
Reason for Book Selection
Our school district’s literature anthology contains several Gary Soto stories. The student’s really gravitate towards his writing style. I especially love his subtle humor.
Plot Summary
This book contains a collection of 11 short stories that showcase certain events in Soto’s life growing up in some of the poorest areas of California. Included within the collection are stories about spending time with his grandparents, riding bikes, family vacations, talking to girls, etc.
Critical Evaluation
Soto has always had a special talent for understanding what it’s like to grow up as a child. He especially focuses on the experiences that tend to relate to all children, not just those who are less fortunate. The stories are told from a child’s perspective, which allows readers to make a variety of connections.
Reader's Annotation
This book is a collection of 11 short stories.
About the Author
As a child, Gary Soto never thought he would ever become a writer. He did know, however, that he did not want to work in the fields of Fresno, California.
When Soto was a young child, he suffered the loss of his Father, Manuel, who lost his life in a tragic industrial accident. After his father’s death, Soto’s family was left without any money, so they eventually moved to the San Joaquin Valley in search of work. Because his mother was an immigrant, and she had very little education, she began work “picking oranges, cotton, and grapes for very little pay.” She also accepted jobs at the packing houses of local business, which was often dangerous work. Gary, grew up very poor, and he lived in some of the poorest and most dangerous neighborhoods.
His experiences growing up are the subject and setting of many of his works. These include The Skirt, Fearless Fernie, Canto Familiar, and Jesse.
Genre
Fiction: Short Stories
Curriculum Ties
Language Arts, Social Studies, Social Sciences
Booktalking Ideas
Have you ever read Baseball in April and Other Stories? If you have not, than you have not read one of American Library Association’s Best Books for Young Adults. The author of this book, Gary Soto is known as, “an author true to his Hispanic heritage and culture” because a great deal of the books and poems he has written are recollections of his life when he lived in Fresno, California as a young boy. Next time you visit the library, check out Baseball in April and Other Stories!
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 9-12
Reason for Book Selection
Our school district’s literature anthology contains several Gary Soto stories. The student’s really gravitate towards his writing style. I especially love his subtle humor.
Gaiman, Neil. The Graveyard Book. HarperCollins (2008). ISBN-10: 0060530928
Plot Summary
Nobody Owens is a living boy who is rescued by ghosts in a graveyard after the horrific death of his family. Because the “man Jack” is still looking for the young boy, the ghosts work to keep him safe. As a result, Bod becomes essentially isolated from the world outside of the graveyard. He does, however, develop a variety of friendships with ghosts and ghouls. And, he even develops a strong bond with another living girl named Scarlet who visits the graveyard when she is young and then again when she is older. Over time, Bod is expected to brave the living world without any help from the dead.
Critical Evaluation
Bod grows both physically and emotionally throughout this novel. He is a boy that lives in a graveyard where he is consistently protected. I enjoyed the development of Bod as the main character in this story. And, I especially liked Gaiman’s descriptions of the various minor characters that contributed to the overall plot of the story. The setting is unique, and the themes are clear and meaningful to young adults and children. A variety of amazing illustrations complete this literary work.
Reader's Annotation
Bod, or Nobody Owens, is a boy who lives among the dead in a graveyard. His parents are murdered, and he spends his younger years and teen years remaining, for the most part, within the confines of the graveyard. He develops many relationships with ghosts.
About the Author
Neil Richard Gaiman was born on November 10, 1960. He is currently an English author who specializes in science fiction and fantasy. He has written a variety of novels, short stories, comics, films, graphic novels, and even audio theater. His distinguished works include Coraline, The Sandman (graphic novel series), American Gods, and Stardust. His writings have received various awards, including the 2009 Newbery Medal.
Genre
Fantasy Fiction
Curriculum Ties
Language Arts, Social Studies
Booktalking Ideas
Read aloud from 1st line…
“There was a hand in the darkness, and it held a knife.” Niel Gaiman, the author of Coraline, has written another blend of humor, suspense, macabre, horror, and fantasy. Visit the library to check out The Graveyard Book, a story about a boy who lives in a graveyard after his parents are murdered.
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 9-12
Reason for Book Selection
The book contains interesting relationships between several characters. And, the illustrations are absolutely perfect!
Plot Summary
Nobody Owens is a living boy who is rescued by ghosts in a graveyard after the horrific death of his family. Because the “man Jack” is still looking for the young boy, the ghosts work to keep him safe. As a result, Bod becomes essentially isolated from the world outside of the graveyard. He does, however, develop a variety of friendships with ghosts and ghouls. And, he even develops a strong bond with another living girl named Scarlet who visits the graveyard when she is young and then again when she is older. Over time, Bod is expected to brave the living world without any help from the dead.
Critical Evaluation
Bod grows both physically and emotionally throughout this novel. He is a boy that lives in a graveyard where he is consistently protected. I enjoyed the development of Bod as the main character in this story. And, I especially liked Gaiman’s descriptions of the various minor characters that contributed to the overall plot of the story. The setting is unique, and the themes are clear and meaningful to young adults and children. A variety of amazing illustrations complete this literary work.
Reader's Annotation
Bod, or Nobody Owens, is a boy who lives among the dead in a graveyard. His parents are murdered, and he spends his younger years and teen years remaining, for the most part, within the confines of the graveyard. He develops many relationships with ghosts.
About the Author
Neil Richard Gaiman was born on November 10, 1960. He is currently an English author who specializes in science fiction and fantasy. He has written a variety of novels, short stories, comics, films, graphic novels, and even audio theater. His distinguished works include Coraline, The Sandman (graphic novel series), American Gods, and Stardust. His writings have received various awards, including the 2009 Newbery Medal.
Genre
Fantasy Fiction
Curriculum Ties
Language Arts, Social Studies
Booktalking Ideas
Read aloud from 1st line…
“There was a hand in the darkness, and it held a knife.” Niel Gaiman, the author of Coraline, has written another blend of humor, suspense, macabre, horror, and fantasy. Visit the library to check out The Graveyard Book, a story about a boy who lives in a graveyard after his parents are murdered.
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 9-12
Reason for Book Selection
The book contains interesting relationships between several characters. And, the illustrations are absolutely perfect!
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Mckay, Hilary. Saffy’s Angel. McElderry (2003). ISBN-10: 0689849346
Plot Summary
In Saffy’s Angel, we are introduced to the four Casson children, all named after paint colors by their mother Eve. Eve is an artist who spends much of her “single parent” time in a shed behind the house. Their father, Bill, is absent for much of the time. Cadmium (Caddy) is the eldest who struggles with her exams and has a crush on her driving instructor. Indigo, the only boy, watches over his “pack” of sisters and is fearful of heights, but he continually forces himself to face his fears. Saffron (or Saffy), the middle daughter, makes friends easily and later discovers, by chance, that she is adopted. The youngest daughter, Rose, is the budding artist and the most profound. Following their grandfather’s death, and the reading of his will, the children discover that they have inherited a house, a car, some money, and in Saffy’s case, a stone angel in the garden. When Saffy realizes that her stone angel is in Italy, she heads there with the help of her friend Sarah. And, the other children become inspired to search for their inheritances too.
Critical Evaluation
This is perhaps the best of Hilary McKay’s stories. Nominated Boston Globe-Horn Book Award 2002, it went on to win the Whitbread Children’s Book Award of the Year 2003. I certainly know why! This book is filled with nutty characters (the parents), humorous antics, and strange family interactions.
Reader's Annotation
The four Casson children are all named after paint colors, thanks to their mother Eve.
About the Author
Hilary McKay was born in Lincolnshire, England in 1959. Because her parents would not allow television in their home, books were always a big part of McKay’s family growing up. Authors such as Enid Blyton, E. Nesbit, L.M. Montgomery, Mark Twain and Louisa May Alcott influenced Mckay’s love of literature. During her lifetime, she worked various jobs like cleaning holiday cottages and painting pictures to sell to tourists. She eventually trained as a scientist earning a double degree in Zoology and Botany at the University of Saint Andrews in Scotland.
Hilary’s first foray into writing children’s books began after a friend commented on her knowledge of books and that she might consider writing one of her own. Success came in 1992 when McKay won the Guardian Children’s Fiction Award for The Exiles as an outstanding work of children’s fiction published in the previous year. Today, she is an award winning British author with over 35 books published.
Genre
Realistic Fiction
Curriculum Ties
Language Arts, Social Science
Booktalking Ideas
The Casson children are all named after paint colors. All of them except Saffron, or Saffy for short. When Saffy discovers that she is adopted, she feels lost. But, when her grandfather dies, his will is read, and Saffy learns of her stone angel. There’s only one problem…the stone angel is in Italy! To find out what happens with Saffy and the other Casson children, read Hilary McKay’s Saffy’s Angel.
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 8-12
Reason for Book Selection
This book tackles the topic of adoption, which is difficult for many children to deal with, especially those at Saffy’s age. The story adds a lot of humor, which certainly helps to lighten the mood.
Plot Summary
In Saffy’s Angel, we are introduced to the four Casson children, all named after paint colors by their mother Eve. Eve is an artist who spends much of her “single parent” time in a shed behind the house. Their father, Bill, is absent for much of the time. Cadmium (Caddy) is the eldest who struggles with her exams and has a crush on her driving instructor. Indigo, the only boy, watches over his “pack” of sisters and is fearful of heights, but he continually forces himself to face his fears. Saffron (or Saffy), the middle daughter, makes friends easily and later discovers, by chance, that she is adopted. The youngest daughter, Rose, is the budding artist and the most profound. Following their grandfather’s death, and the reading of his will, the children discover that they have inherited a house, a car, some money, and in Saffy’s case, a stone angel in the garden. When Saffy realizes that her stone angel is in Italy, she heads there with the help of her friend Sarah. And, the other children become inspired to search for their inheritances too.
Critical Evaluation
This is perhaps the best of Hilary McKay’s stories. Nominated Boston Globe-Horn Book Award 2002, it went on to win the Whitbread Children’s Book Award of the Year 2003. I certainly know why! This book is filled with nutty characters (the parents), humorous antics, and strange family interactions.
Reader's Annotation
The four Casson children are all named after paint colors, thanks to their mother Eve.
About the Author
Hilary McKay was born in Lincolnshire, England in 1959. Because her parents would not allow television in their home, books were always a big part of McKay’s family growing up. Authors such as Enid Blyton, E. Nesbit, L.M. Montgomery, Mark Twain and Louisa May Alcott influenced Mckay’s love of literature. During her lifetime, she worked various jobs like cleaning holiday cottages and painting pictures to sell to tourists. She eventually trained as a scientist earning a double degree in Zoology and Botany at the University of Saint Andrews in Scotland.
Hilary’s first foray into writing children’s books began after a friend commented on her knowledge of books and that she might consider writing one of her own. Success came in 1992 when McKay won the Guardian Children’s Fiction Award for The Exiles as an outstanding work of children’s fiction published in the previous year. Today, she is an award winning British author with over 35 books published.
Genre
Realistic Fiction
Curriculum Ties
Language Arts, Social Science
Booktalking Ideas
The Casson children are all named after paint colors. All of them except Saffron, or Saffy for short. When Saffy discovers that she is adopted, she feels lost. But, when her grandfather dies, his will is read, and Saffy learns of her stone angel. There’s only one problem…the stone angel is in Italy! To find out what happens with Saffy and the other Casson children, read Hilary McKay’s Saffy’s Angel.
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 8-12
Reason for Book Selection
This book tackles the topic of adoption, which is difficult for many children to deal with, especially those at Saffy’s age. The story adds a lot of humor, which certainly helps to lighten the mood.
Park, Linda Sue. A Single Shard. Yearling (2003). ISBN-10: 0440418518
Plot Summary
A Single Shard is a story about Tree-Ear, an orphan in 12th century Korea who lives under a bridge. The closest thing he has to a family is another outcast named Crane Man. Tree-Ear longs to make pottery like many of the famous potters of his village, but has little hope, as the trade is passed from father to son. One day, Tree-Ear accidentally breaks a box created by Min, one of the best potters in the village, so he goes to work for him in order to pay him back. Soon, Tree-Ear must go on a long journey on behalf of the potter, which will decide both Min and Tree-Ear’s fates.
Critical Evaluation
I have always loved historical fiction. In this book, the Korean culture is shown through the caladon firing process. I especially enjoyed the descriptions of pottery making, as they were both interesting and intriguing. The characters are easily likable. Although the book does contain a few difficult topics (concubines, suicide, etc.), the overarching history of the people is easy to understand and appropriate for tween readers. This is an awesome book about choices, courage, and friendship!
Reader's Annotation
This is a story about Tree-Ear, an orphan in 12th century Korea who lives under a bridge.
About the Author
Linda Sue Park writes children’s books, which are primarily set in historic Korea. Park was born March 25, 1960 in Urbana, Illinois, to Korean immigrant parents. In the 1950’s both of Park’s parents emigrated from South Korea to the United States, where they met and married. As a child, Park was a voracious reader, and credits her father for taking her to the library every other week. Park became a published writer at the age of 9 when her poem was published by Trailblazer magazine. She received a check for one dollar, which she gave to her dad, who had it framed.
Park has won numerous awards, including the 2002 Newbery Award for A Single Shard, the Jane Addams Honor Book Award for When My Name was Keoko, and the Chicago Tribune Prize for Young Adult Fiction for Project Mulberry. Many of her books have appeared on various “best of” lists as well.
Genre
Historical Fiction
Curriculum Ties
Language Arts, Social Studies, Social Science, Art
Booktalking Ideas
Read aloud page 96:
“Tree-Ear could hardly breathe on his walk home. Min’s words rang in his ears, over and over: ‘orphaned one…father to son…not my son.’ He realized now what he never thought to notice before: all the other apprentices were indeed sons of the potters.
It’s not my fault! Tree-Ear wanted to shout. He wanted to run all the way back to Min and scream the words. It’s not my fault you lost your son, not my fault I am an orphan! Why must it be father to son? If the pot is made well, does it matter whose son made it?”
Will Tree-Ear succeed, and possibly secure a future for himself, or will he fail and return to being an outcast? To find out, read Linda Sue Park’s A Single Shard.
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 9-12
Grades 5-8
Reason for Book Selection
This book actually caught my eye one day when I visited the school library. I spoke to our librarian, and she highly recommended I read the book. She was right!
Plot Summary
A Single Shard is a story about Tree-Ear, an orphan in 12th century Korea who lives under a bridge. The closest thing he has to a family is another outcast named Crane Man. Tree-Ear longs to make pottery like many of the famous potters of his village, but has little hope, as the trade is passed from father to son. One day, Tree-Ear accidentally breaks a box created by Min, one of the best potters in the village, so he goes to work for him in order to pay him back. Soon, Tree-Ear must go on a long journey on behalf of the potter, which will decide both Min and Tree-Ear’s fates.
Critical Evaluation
I have always loved historical fiction. In this book, the Korean culture is shown through the caladon firing process. I especially enjoyed the descriptions of pottery making, as they were both interesting and intriguing. The characters are easily likable. Although the book does contain a few difficult topics (concubines, suicide, etc.), the overarching history of the people is easy to understand and appropriate for tween readers. This is an awesome book about choices, courage, and friendship!
Reader's Annotation
This is a story about Tree-Ear, an orphan in 12th century Korea who lives under a bridge.
About the Author
Linda Sue Park writes children’s books, which are primarily set in historic Korea. Park was born March 25, 1960 in Urbana, Illinois, to Korean immigrant parents. In the 1950’s both of Park’s parents emigrated from South Korea to the United States, where they met and married. As a child, Park was a voracious reader, and credits her father for taking her to the library every other week. Park became a published writer at the age of 9 when her poem was published by Trailblazer magazine. She received a check for one dollar, which she gave to her dad, who had it framed.
Park has won numerous awards, including the 2002 Newbery Award for A Single Shard, the Jane Addams Honor Book Award for When My Name was Keoko, and the Chicago Tribune Prize for Young Adult Fiction for Project Mulberry. Many of her books have appeared on various “best of” lists as well.
Genre
Historical Fiction
Curriculum Ties
Language Arts, Social Studies, Social Science, Art
Booktalking Ideas
Read aloud page 96:
“Tree-Ear could hardly breathe on his walk home. Min’s words rang in his ears, over and over: ‘orphaned one…father to son…not my son.’ He realized now what he never thought to notice before: all the other apprentices were indeed sons of the potters.
It’s not my fault! Tree-Ear wanted to shout. He wanted to run all the way back to Min and scream the words. It’s not my fault you lost your son, not my fault I am an orphan! Why must it be father to son? If the pot is made well, does it matter whose son made it?”
Will Tree-Ear succeed, and possibly secure a future for himself, or will he fail and return to being an outcast? To find out, read Linda Sue Park’s A Single Shard.
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 9-12
Grades 5-8
Reason for Book Selection
This book actually caught my eye one day when I visited the school library. I spoke to our librarian, and she highly recommended I read the book. She was right!
Lewis, C. S. Prince Caspian (Chronicles of Narnia). HarperCollins (1994). ISBN-10: 0064471055
Plot Summary
Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy magically transported to Narnia while waiting at a train station in this exciting sequel to The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. The children return to Narnia to find that their castle of Cair Paravel is in ruins, Narnia has been overthrown by the Telmarines, and King Caspian’s uncle has stolen his throne. Caspian’s wicked and cruel uncle, King Miraz wants to kill Caspian. When Caspian learns of his uncle’s intent, he escapes. Then, Lucy, Edmund, Peter, and Susan join Caspian in his fight. In the end, a talking badger, two dwarfs, a dethroned prince, and four children defeat the Telmarine army and save the whole country.
Critical Evaluation
This book is full of adventure! The additional characters (e.g., kings, queens, etc.) are well developed and brilliantly described. The plot is full of action-packed mystery, and I especially enjoyed the fact that Narnia, as described in the book, is a place where time passes much more quickly than on earth. This makes for a dramatic storyline!
Reader's Annotation
Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy magically transported to Narnia while waiting at a train station in this exciting sequel to The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe.
About the Author
Jack Lewis (or C.S.) was born on November 29, 1898, in Belfast, Ireland. As a child, he lived a happy and carefree life. When he was only eight years old, his mother died of cancer, and he, along with his brother, were sent to live in an English boarding school. Eventually, the school closed, and he returned to Ireland. But, he later returned to England to continue his studies. As a teenager, C.S. enjoyed reading poetry and learning languages.
Although he was accepted to Oxford University in 1916, he volunteered to serve in the British Army during World War I. He returned to Oxford in 1918, and he graduated in 1925 with honors in Greek and Latin Literature, English Literature, and Philosophy and Ancient History. He stayed on at Oxford as an English teacher for 29 years, and in 1955, he became a professor of medieval and renaissance literature Magdalene College in Cambridge. During these years, Lewis began publishing books. Although his earlier works were written for adults, he later became a writer of children’s books. In 1950, The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe was published. And the subsequent six other books in the series were written over the next six years. Today, these books have sold more than 100 million copies, and they are considered classics in children’s literature.
Genre
Fantasy Ficiton
Curriculum Ties
Language Arts
Booktalking Ideas
Teaser: Read aloud from page 129.
“Then—all at once—whizz, and a sound rather like the stroke of a woodpecker. The children were still wondering where they had heard a sound just like that when Trumpkin shouted “Down,” at the same moment forcing Lucy flat down into the bracken—a long cruel arrow had sunk into a tree just above his head. “Quick! Quick! Get back! Crawl,” panted Trumpkin. Arrows whizzed all around them, one struck Susan’s helmet….” Will they escape the evil Telmarines? Will the children ever return to England? If you like excitement, and you enjoyed The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, then you will love reading Prince Caspian: Book 2 in the Chronicles of Narnia.
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 9-12
Grades 4-8
Reason for Book Selection
This book is the next in the series…The Chronicles of Narnia. Most students continue the series once they have read The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe.
Plot Summary
Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy magically transported to Narnia while waiting at a train station in this exciting sequel to The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. The children return to Narnia to find that their castle of Cair Paravel is in ruins, Narnia has been overthrown by the Telmarines, and King Caspian’s uncle has stolen his throne. Caspian’s wicked and cruel uncle, King Miraz wants to kill Caspian. When Caspian learns of his uncle’s intent, he escapes. Then, Lucy, Edmund, Peter, and Susan join Caspian in his fight. In the end, a talking badger, two dwarfs, a dethroned prince, and four children defeat the Telmarine army and save the whole country.
Critical Evaluation
This book is full of adventure! The additional characters (e.g., kings, queens, etc.) are well developed and brilliantly described. The plot is full of action-packed mystery, and I especially enjoyed the fact that Narnia, as described in the book, is a place where time passes much more quickly than on earth. This makes for a dramatic storyline!
Reader's Annotation
Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy magically transported to Narnia while waiting at a train station in this exciting sequel to The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe.
About the Author
Jack Lewis (or C.S.) was born on November 29, 1898, in Belfast, Ireland. As a child, he lived a happy and carefree life. When he was only eight years old, his mother died of cancer, and he, along with his brother, were sent to live in an English boarding school. Eventually, the school closed, and he returned to Ireland. But, he later returned to England to continue his studies. As a teenager, C.S. enjoyed reading poetry and learning languages.
Although he was accepted to Oxford University in 1916, he volunteered to serve in the British Army during World War I. He returned to Oxford in 1918, and he graduated in 1925 with honors in Greek and Latin Literature, English Literature, and Philosophy and Ancient History. He stayed on at Oxford as an English teacher for 29 years, and in 1955, he became a professor of medieval and renaissance literature Magdalene College in Cambridge. During these years, Lewis began publishing books. Although his earlier works were written for adults, he later became a writer of children’s books. In 1950, The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe was published. And the subsequent six other books in the series were written over the next six years. Today, these books have sold more than 100 million copies, and they are considered classics in children’s literature.
Genre
Fantasy Ficiton
Curriculum Ties
Language Arts
Booktalking Ideas
Teaser: Read aloud from page 129.
“Then—all at once—whizz, and a sound rather like the stroke of a woodpecker. The children were still wondering where they had heard a sound just like that when Trumpkin shouted “Down,” at the same moment forcing Lucy flat down into the bracken—a long cruel arrow had sunk into a tree just above his head. “Quick! Quick! Get back! Crawl,” panted Trumpkin. Arrows whizzed all around them, one struck Susan’s helmet….” Will they escape the evil Telmarines? Will the children ever return to England? If you like excitement, and you enjoyed The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, then you will love reading Prince Caspian: Book 2 in the Chronicles of Narnia.
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 9-12
Grades 4-8
Reason for Book Selection
This book is the next in the series…The Chronicles of Narnia. Most students continue the series once they have read The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe.
Lewis, C. S. The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe (The Chronicles of Narnia). HarperCollins (2005). ISBN-10: 0060764899
Plot Summary
After being forced to leave their London home during World War II, Lucy, Edmund, Susan, and Peter are sent to live with an eccentric professor where they are transported to a strange land through an old wardrobe. Lucy, Edmund, Susan, and Peter soon learn that they have enter the magical land of Narnia, where animals talk and it is “always winter and never Christmas.” There are forces of evil in Narnia, and each child must find the courage within to fight and overcome them.
Critical Evaluation
This book is a fast read! The story is full of mythical creatures and talking animals that effectively contribute to the well-organized plot. The human characters (Lucy, Edmund, Susan, and Peter) are quite different from one another, but fairly realistic, nonetheless. Most events in the story are described well, and the settings are intriguing.
Reader's Annotation
After being forced to leave their London home during World War II, Lucy, Edmund, Susan, and Peter are sent to live with an eccentric professor where they are transported to a strange land through an old wardrobe.
About the Author
Jack (or C.S.) Lewis was born on November 29, 1898, in Belfast, Ireland. As a child, he lived a happy and carefree life. When he was only eight years old, his mother died of cancer, and he and his brother were sent to live in an English boarding school. Eventually, the school closed, and he returned to Ireland. But, he later returned to England to continue his studies. As a teenager, C.S. enjoyed reading poetry and learning languages.
Although he was accepted to Oxford University in 1916, he volunteered to serve in the British Army during World War I. He returned to Oxford in 1918, and he graduated in 1925 with honors in Greek and Latin Literature, English Literature, and Philosophy and Ancient History. He stayed on at Oxford as an English teacher for 29 years, and in 1955, he became a professor of medieval and renaissance literature at Magdalene College in Cambridge. During these years, Lewis began publishing books. Although his earlier works were written for adults, he later became a writer of children’s books. In 1950, The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe was published. And the subsequent six books in the series were written over the next six years. Today, these books have sold more than 100 million copies, and they are considered classics in children’s literature.
Genre
Fantasy Fiction
Curriculum Ties
Language Arts
Booktalking Ideas
Have you ever tasted something so good that you would betray your own brothers and sisters for another morsel? Edmund has that dilemma. After being forced to leave their London home during World War II, Lucy, Edmund, Susan, and Peter are sent to live with an eccentric professor where they are transported to a strange land through an old wardrobe. On page 127, Peter, as the oldest must save his sister, Lucy; “Peter did not feel brave; indeed, he felt he was going to be sick. But that made no difference to what he had to do. He rushed straight up to the monster and aimed a slash of his sword at its side.” You will be kept on the end of your seat as Lucy, Susan, and Peter face great dangers as they battle with the White Witch who is keeping Narnia under a magic spell and has their brother Edmund a prisoner in an icy prison. Will someone have to die so Edmund can go free? Can Aslan, the great lion and the gifts from Father Christmas, help the children free Narnia from the witch’s spell and become the kings and queens of the magical land of Narnia? To find out read The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe.
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 9-12
Grades 3-6
Reason for Book Selection
This book is part of a timeless series…The Chronicles of Narnia. It was popular when I was younger, and it is still fairly popular today.
Plot Summary
After being forced to leave their London home during World War II, Lucy, Edmund, Susan, and Peter are sent to live with an eccentric professor where they are transported to a strange land through an old wardrobe. Lucy, Edmund, Susan, and Peter soon learn that they have enter the magical land of Narnia, where animals talk and it is “always winter and never Christmas.” There are forces of evil in Narnia, and each child must find the courage within to fight and overcome them.
Critical Evaluation
This book is a fast read! The story is full of mythical creatures and talking animals that effectively contribute to the well-organized plot. The human characters (Lucy, Edmund, Susan, and Peter) are quite different from one another, but fairly realistic, nonetheless. Most events in the story are described well, and the settings are intriguing.
Reader's Annotation
After being forced to leave their London home during World War II, Lucy, Edmund, Susan, and Peter are sent to live with an eccentric professor where they are transported to a strange land through an old wardrobe.
About the Author
Jack (or C.S.) Lewis was born on November 29, 1898, in Belfast, Ireland. As a child, he lived a happy and carefree life. When he was only eight years old, his mother died of cancer, and he and his brother were sent to live in an English boarding school. Eventually, the school closed, and he returned to Ireland. But, he later returned to England to continue his studies. As a teenager, C.S. enjoyed reading poetry and learning languages.
Although he was accepted to Oxford University in 1916, he volunteered to serve in the British Army during World War I. He returned to Oxford in 1918, and he graduated in 1925 with honors in Greek and Latin Literature, English Literature, and Philosophy and Ancient History. He stayed on at Oxford as an English teacher for 29 years, and in 1955, he became a professor of medieval and renaissance literature at Magdalene College in Cambridge. During these years, Lewis began publishing books. Although his earlier works were written for adults, he later became a writer of children’s books. In 1950, The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe was published. And the subsequent six books in the series were written over the next six years. Today, these books have sold more than 100 million copies, and they are considered classics in children’s literature.
Genre
Fantasy Fiction
Curriculum Ties
Language Arts
Booktalking Ideas
Have you ever tasted something so good that you would betray your own brothers and sisters for another morsel? Edmund has that dilemma. After being forced to leave their London home during World War II, Lucy, Edmund, Susan, and Peter are sent to live with an eccentric professor where they are transported to a strange land through an old wardrobe. On page 127, Peter, as the oldest must save his sister, Lucy; “Peter did not feel brave; indeed, he felt he was going to be sick. But that made no difference to what he had to do. He rushed straight up to the monster and aimed a slash of his sword at its side.” You will be kept on the end of your seat as Lucy, Susan, and Peter face great dangers as they battle with the White Witch who is keeping Narnia under a magic spell and has their brother Edmund a prisoner in an icy prison. Will someone have to die so Edmund can go free? Can Aslan, the great lion and the gifts from Father Christmas, help the children free Narnia from the witch’s spell and become the kings and queens of the magical land of Narnia? To find out read The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe.
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 9-12
Grades 3-6
Reason for Book Selection
This book is part of a timeless series…The Chronicles of Narnia. It was popular when I was younger, and it is still fairly popular today.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Spinelli, Jerry. Loser. HarperCollins (2003). ISBN-10: 0060540745
Plot Summary
Almost every classroom has a wide range of personalities: the popular student, the jock, the smarty-pants, the pretty girl whom all the boys like, the class clown, and last of all, the “loser.” In his childhood years, Donald Zinkoff has been the “loser.” Although he is a bit slower than the rest, the last to be picked for teams, and the butt of most jokes, he still loves school and has a positive perspective on life. Zinkoff is an ordinary kid who experiences the taunting of classmates’ jokes and ridicule but does not let it bring him down.
Critical Evaluation
Jerry Spinelli’s portrayal of Donald Zinkoff in the book Loser is outstanding! And, I have had a few students like Zinkoff actually in my classes over the years. A boy teased for his odd/quirky behaviors…that’s certainly not original, but Zinkoff’s outlook is. As with most of Spinelli’s works, the characters are believable and the setting is certainly realistic. Spinelli never disappoints!
Reader's Annotation
Despite his difficulties, Donald Zinkoff is a resilient and brave boy. When a girl goes missing, he sets out to find her even though she was found shortly after. His determination proves that failure will happen, but the human spirit will prevail.
About the Author
Jerry Spinelli was born in Norristown, Pennsylvania, in 1941. In 1957, Spinelli realized writing was his passion when his high school football team won a big game. While other students went to celebrate the occasion, Spinelli went home and wrote a poem. Without Spinelli knowing, his father took the poem to the town newspaper where it was later published. Although he did spend time as an editor for Chilton Company, he now spends his days writing full-time. Two of his books, Maniac Magee and Wringer, have earned Newbery Honor Awards.
Genre
Realistic Fiction
Curriculum Ties
Language Arts, Social Studies
Booktalking Ideas
Read aloud from page 217:
He doesn’t know that he’s a klutz. Doesn’t know he’s out of his league. Doesn’t
know a leftover doesn’t stare down a chooser. Doesn’t know he’s supposed to
look down at his shoes or up in the sky and wish he could disappear, because
that’s what he is, a leftover, the last kid left. Check out Jerry Spinelli’s Loser!
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 9-12, Grades 4-6
Reason for Book Selection
I am a huge fan of Jerry Spinelli’s works. His books are extremely popular with both boys and girls, and I especially enjoyed Stargirl and Maniac Magee. I appreciate the fact that Spinelli’s books contain realistic themes for students in the middle grades.
Plot Summary
Almost every classroom has a wide range of personalities: the popular student, the jock, the smarty-pants, the pretty girl whom all the boys like, the class clown, and last of all, the “loser.” In his childhood years, Donald Zinkoff has been the “loser.” Although he is a bit slower than the rest, the last to be picked for teams, and the butt of most jokes, he still loves school and has a positive perspective on life. Zinkoff is an ordinary kid who experiences the taunting of classmates’ jokes and ridicule but does not let it bring him down.
Critical Evaluation
Jerry Spinelli’s portrayal of Donald Zinkoff in the book Loser is outstanding! And, I have had a few students like Zinkoff actually in my classes over the years. A boy teased for his odd/quirky behaviors…that’s certainly not original, but Zinkoff’s outlook is. As with most of Spinelli’s works, the characters are believable and the setting is certainly realistic. Spinelli never disappoints!
Reader's Annotation
Despite his difficulties, Donald Zinkoff is a resilient and brave boy. When a girl goes missing, he sets out to find her even though she was found shortly after. His determination proves that failure will happen, but the human spirit will prevail.
About the Author
Jerry Spinelli was born in Norristown, Pennsylvania, in 1941. In 1957, Spinelli realized writing was his passion when his high school football team won a big game. While other students went to celebrate the occasion, Spinelli went home and wrote a poem. Without Spinelli knowing, his father took the poem to the town newspaper where it was later published. Although he did spend time as an editor for Chilton Company, he now spends his days writing full-time. Two of his books, Maniac Magee and Wringer, have earned Newbery Honor Awards.
Genre
Realistic Fiction
Curriculum Ties
Language Arts, Social Studies
Booktalking Ideas
Read aloud from page 217:
He doesn’t know that he’s a klutz. Doesn’t know he’s out of his league. Doesn’t
know a leftover doesn’t stare down a chooser. Doesn’t know he’s supposed to
look down at his shoes or up in the sky and wish he could disappear, because
that’s what he is, a leftover, the last kid left. Check out Jerry Spinelli’s Loser!
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 9-12, Grades 4-6
Reason for Book Selection
I am a huge fan of Jerry Spinelli’s works. His books are extremely popular with both boys and girls, and I especially enjoyed Stargirl and Maniac Magee. I appreciate the fact that Spinelli’s books contain realistic themes for students in the middle grades.
Fleischman, Sid. The Whipping Boy. Greenwillow Books (2003). ISBN-10: 0060521228
Plot Summary
In Sid Fleischman’s The Whipping Boy, Jemmy wants to become a rat-catcher like his father. Instead, he is living in the palace where he wears fine velvet or silk, attends school with the prince, and is fed royally. But, this isn’t as great as it sounds because Jemmy is the whipping boy for the prince everyone calls “Prince Brat”. If the prince misbehaves or refuses to learn to read, Jemmy is whipped in his place. When Prince Brat decides to run away, taking Jemmy with him, a villainous pair named Cutwater and Hold-Your-Nose Billy captures them and plans to hold them for ransom. But the bandits think that Jemmy is the prince and the real prince is the servant. The two boys temporarily escape their kidnappers with the help of strangers going to the fair, Captain Nips (the hot potato man) and Betsy traveling with her trained bear, Petunia. Jemmy and the prince have to steer clear of Cutwater and Hold-Your-Nose Billy as well as the palace guards who would certainly throw Jemmy in prison!
The prince is taken aback when he discovers that he is called “Prince Brat” behind his back, and his future subjects are happy he’s been kidnapped. After all, what sort of a king would he make? But during their adventure, the prince has changed. And Jemmy, who dreamt only of escaping the palace and catching rats, realizes that he will miss the opportunity to read all the books there.
Critical Evaluation
Sid Fleischman won the Newbery Award in 1987 for this adventurous tale illustrated by 2-time Caldecott Honor winner Peter Sis. The book is humorous, enlightening, and quite short. The action inspires readers to finish in just one sitting!
Reader's Annotation
If “Prince Brat” misbehaves or refuses to learn to read, Jemmy is whipped in his place. When Prince Brat decides to run away, taking Jemmy with him, a villainous pair named Cutwater and Hold-Your-Nose Billy captures them and plans to hold them for ransom.
About the Author
Sid Fleischman was born Avrom Zalomon in New York in 1920. As a small child, Sid’s father moved the family to San Diego. In junior high school, Sid spent time reading constantly, but he had no interest in what he was supposed to be reading. He read many magic books, and he dreamt of becoming a magician. While still in high school, Fleischman wrote his first book, a slim book called Between Cocktails. The book contained tricks that a sleight of hand magician could do with a matchbook. He sold away all the publishing rights for only $50.00 in credit for merchandise from a magic supply store. Sid, however, became a published author, and that book remained in print for 30 years! Although early on he had some success as a writer of stories and books for adults, he eventually became a full-time author of children’s books. In fact, his novel e The Whipping Boy won the Newbery Medal in 1987. Today, he lives with his wife in Santa Monica. He has written dozens of books for young readers, the latest being The White Elephant, published in 2006
Genre
Fiction: Action & Adventure
Curriculum Ties
Language Arts, Social Studies
Booktalking Ideas
Jemmy wants to become a rat-catcher like his father. Instead, he is living in the palace where he wears fine velvet or silk, attends school with the prince, and is fed royally. But, this isn’t as great as it sounds because Jemmy is the whipping boy for the prince everyone calls “Prince Brat.” If the prince misbehaves or refuses to learn to read, Jemmy is whipped in his place. Find out what happens to Jemmy – pick up a copy of Sid Fleischman’s The Whipping Boy.
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 9-12
Reason for Book Selection
I am a big fan of short books that teach a moral or lesson without being so overly obvious. This book does just that.
Plot Summary
In Sid Fleischman’s The Whipping Boy, Jemmy wants to become a rat-catcher like his father. Instead, he is living in the palace where he wears fine velvet or silk, attends school with the prince, and is fed royally. But, this isn’t as great as it sounds because Jemmy is the whipping boy for the prince everyone calls “Prince Brat”. If the prince misbehaves or refuses to learn to read, Jemmy is whipped in his place. When Prince Brat decides to run away, taking Jemmy with him, a villainous pair named Cutwater and Hold-Your-Nose Billy captures them and plans to hold them for ransom. But the bandits think that Jemmy is the prince and the real prince is the servant. The two boys temporarily escape their kidnappers with the help of strangers going to the fair, Captain Nips (the hot potato man) and Betsy traveling with her trained bear, Petunia. Jemmy and the prince have to steer clear of Cutwater and Hold-Your-Nose Billy as well as the palace guards who would certainly throw Jemmy in prison!
The prince is taken aback when he discovers that he is called “Prince Brat” behind his back, and his future subjects are happy he’s been kidnapped. After all, what sort of a king would he make? But during their adventure, the prince has changed. And Jemmy, who dreamt only of escaping the palace and catching rats, realizes that he will miss the opportunity to read all the books there.
Critical Evaluation
Sid Fleischman won the Newbery Award in 1987 for this adventurous tale illustrated by 2-time Caldecott Honor winner Peter Sis. The book is humorous, enlightening, and quite short. The action inspires readers to finish in just one sitting!
Reader's Annotation
If “Prince Brat” misbehaves or refuses to learn to read, Jemmy is whipped in his place. When Prince Brat decides to run away, taking Jemmy with him, a villainous pair named Cutwater and Hold-Your-Nose Billy captures them and plans to hold them for ransom.
About the Author
Sid Fleischman was born Avrom Zalomon in New York in 1920. As a small child, Sid’s father moved the family to San Diego. In junior high school, Sid spent time reading constantly, but he had no interest in what he was supposed to be reading. He read many magic books, and he dreamt of becoming a magician. While still in high school, Fleischman wrote his first book, a slim book called Between Cocktails. The book contained tricks that a sleight of hand magician could do with a matchbook. He sold away all the publishing rights for only $50.00 in credit for merchandise from a magic supply store. Sid, however, became a published author, and that book remained in print for 30 years! Although early on he had some success as a writer of stories and books for adults, he eventually became a full-time author of children’s books. In fact, his novel e The Whipping Boy won the Newbery Medal in 1987. Today, he lives with his wife in Santa Monica. He has written dozens of books for young readers, the latest being The White Elephant, published in 2006
Genre
Fiction: Action & Adventure
Curriculum Ties
Language Arts, Social Studies
Booktalking Ideas
Jemmy wants to become a rat-catcher like his father. Instead, he is living in the palace where he wears fine velvet or silk, attends school with the prince, and is fed royally. But, this isn’t as great as it sounds because Jemmy is the whipping boy for the prince everyone calls “Prince Brat.” If the prince misbehaves or refuses to learn to read, Jemmy is whipped in his place. Find out what happens to Jemmy – pick up a copy of Sid Fleischman’s The Whipping Boy.
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 9-12
Reason for Book Selection
I am a big fan of short books that teach a moral or lesson without being so overly obvious. This book does just that.
Monday, November 30, 2009
Coville, Bruce. My Teacher is an Alien. Aladdin (2005). ISBN-10: 1416903348
Plot Summary
In the book My Teacher is an Alien by Bruce Coville, a girl named Susan Simmons goes to school and finds out that a man named John Smith has replaced her teacher, Ms. Schwartz. Susan becomes suspicious, so she follows Mr. Smith home, and she sees him peel his face off like a mask. Underneath, he has green skin and glowing orange eyes! Then, Susan finds Ms. Schwartz in his attic, where she is floating in a state of suspended animation, in a glowing blue force field. Susan ends up telling her friend Peter, a sci-fi reader who would certainly believe that aliens exist in the neighborhood. Together, they plan to break into Mr. Smith’s house and rescue Ms. Shwartz.
Critical Evaluation
This book is absolutely entertaining! The author uses a school setting to draw young readers into this over the top fantasy. Three more books continue this story. The second book is My Teacher Fried My Brains, told from the point of view of Susan's classmate, Duncan. The last two books, My Teacher Glows in the Dark, and My Teacher Flunked the Planet, are told from Peter's point of view.
Reader's Annotation
Is your teacher an alien who is trying to kidnap you and use your body for experiments? This is certainly true for Susan Simmons in the story My Teacher is an Alien, written by Bruce Coville.
About the Author
Bruce Coville was born in Syracuse, New York, in 1950. When he was a child, he enjoyed reading all kinds of books, including comic books. And, when he was in the 6th grade, he began writing short stories. At the age of 17, he decided he wanted to become a professional writer. Coville later spent time as an elementary school teacher, and in 1977, his first book was published…The Foolish Giant. Today, he has over 12 million books in print, and he is married to Katherine, the artist and illustrator of some of his books.
Genre
Fantasy Fiction
Science Fiction
Curriculum Ties
Language Arts, Science
Booktalking Ideas
Have you ever had a teacher who was so weird that you thought he/she was from another planet? In this story, a girl named Susan Simmons goes to school and finds out that her teacher, Ms. Schwartz, has been replaced by a man named John Smith. Susan is suspicious, so she follows Mr. Smith home, and she sees him peel his face off like a mask. Underneath, he has green skin and glowing orange eyes! The next time you’re in the library, don’t forget to pick up a copy of My Teacher is an Alien by Bruce Coville.
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 9-12
Reason for Book Selection
I have this book on my shelf in my classroom. The students love it!
Plot Summary
In the book My Teacher is an Alien by Bruce Coville, a girl named Susan Simmons goes to school and finds out that a man named John Smith has replaced her teacher, Ms. Schwartz. Susan becomes suspicious, so she follows Mr. Smith home, and she sees him peel his face off like a mask. Underneath, he has green skin and glowing orange eyes! Then, Susan finds Ms. Schwartz in his attic, where she is floating in a state of suspended animation, in a glowing blue force field. Susan ends up telling her friend Peter, a sci-fi reader who would certainly believe that aliens exist in the neighborhood. Together, they plan to break into Mr. Smith’s house and rescue Ms. Shwartz.
Critical Evaluation
This book is absolutely entertaining! The author uses a school setting to draw young readers into this over the top fantasy. Three more books continue this story. The second book is My Teacher Fried My Brains, told from the point of view of Susan's classmate, Duncan. The last two books, My Teacher Glows in the Dark, and My Teacher Flunked the Planet, are told from Peter's point of view.
Reader's Annotation
Is your teacher an alien who is trying to kidnap you and use your body for experiments? This is certainly true for Susan Simmons in the story My Teacher is an Alien, written by Bruce Coville.
About the Author
Bruce Coville was born in Syracuse, New York, in 1950. When he was a child, he enjoyed reading all kinds of books, including comic books. And, when he was in the 6th grade, he began writing short stories. At the age of 17, he decided he wanted to become a professional writer. Coville later spent time as an elementary school teacher, and in 1977, his first book was published…The Foolish Giant. Today, he has over 12 million books in print, and he is married to Katherine, the artist and illustrator of some of his books.
Genre
Fantasy Fiction
Science Fiction
Curriculum Ties
Language Arts, Science
Booktalking Ideas
Have you ever had a teacher who was so weird that you thought he/she was from another planet? In this story, a girl named Susan Simmons goes to school and finds out that her teacher, Ms. Schwartz, has been replaced by a man named John Smith. Susan is suspicious, so she follows Mr. Smith home, and she sees him peel his face off like a mask. Underneath, he has green skin and glowing orange eyes! The next time you’re in the library, don’t forget to pick up a copy of My Teacher is an Alien by Bruce Coville.
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 9-12
Reason for Book Selection
I have this book on my shelf in my classroom. The students love it!
Blume, Judy. Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing. Puffin (2007). ISBN-10: 0142408816
Plot Summary
Peter Hatcher has just had enough with his younger brother who has driven him crazy all day long! His two-year-old brother is known as Fudge or Fudgie. According to everyone, Fudge is an adorable baby, but they have no idea what Peter has to go through when Fudge is around. Fudge’s mischievous behaviors have caused many troubles for Peter and the rest of the family.
Peter is in the fourth grade, and he knows how to behave properly. So, why doesn’t everybody like him the way they like Fudgie? Peter’s greatest fear is having Fudge hanging around his pet turtle, Dribble. He is afraid for Dribble’s life every time Fudge is near.
Critical Evaluation
Judy Blume’s Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing is a realistically funny story about a boy named Peter Hatcher who is jealous of his young brother Fudge. Fudgie gets all of the attention, and everyone just finds him adorable. This story is true to life for many kids with younger siblings. The story will certainly show them that they are not alone!
Reader's Annotation
From banging pots and pans together to eating flowers, Fudge never stopped messing things up. But everyone still loved him!
About the Author
Judy Sussman, also known as Judy Blume, grew up in New Jersey. As a child, she loved to ballet dance and play piano for her friends and family. She even dreamt of becoming a move star someday! Growing up, Blume loved reading mystery books such as the Nancy Drew series. In 1961, she graduated from the university of New York with a bachelor’s degree in Education. When Blume’s early writing attempts failed, she returned to school to take a class called Writing for Children and Teenagers. After her professor commended her writing ability, Blume was motivated again to pursue her dream. In 1969, Judy Blume’s first book The One in the Middle is the Green Kangaroo was published. The rest, of course, is history!
Genre
Realistic Fiction
Curriculum Ties
Language Arts
Booktalking Ideas
Peter is in the fourth grade, and he knows how to behave properly. So, why doesn’t everybody like him like they do his brother Fudgie? Peter’s greatest fear is having Fudge hanging around his pet turtle, Dribble. Whenever Fudge is near, Peter fears for Dribble’s life! If you have younger siblings, you’ll know what Peter is talking about. Does your younger brother have temper tantrum like Fudge? You will enjoy this humorous Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing by Judy Blume, which is sure to make you laugh!
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 9-12
Reason for Book Selection
This book had been around forever! When I was a child like Peter, I remember thinking the same about my own younger sister. She was adorable, and everyone just loved her!
Plot Summary
Peter Hatcher has just had enough with his younger brother who has driven him crazy all day long! His two-year-old brother is known as Fudge or Fudgie. According to everyone, Fudge is an adorable baby, but they have no idea what Peter has to go through when Fudge is around. Fudge’s mischievous behaviors have caused many troubles for Peter and the rest of the family.
Peter is in the fourth grade, and he knows how to behave properly. So, why doesn’t everybody like him the way they like Fudgie? Peter’s greatest fear is having Fudge hanging around his pet turtle, Dribble. He is afraid for Dribble’s life every time Fudge is near.
Critical Evaluation
Judy Blume’s Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing is a realistically funny story about a boy named Peter Hatcher who is jealous of his young brother Fudge. Fudgie gets all of the attention, and everyone just finds him adorable. This story is true to life for many kids with younger siblings. The story will certainly show them that they are not alone!
Reader's Annotation
From banging pots and pans together to eating flowers, Fudge never stopped messing things up. But everyone still loved him!
About the Author
Judy Sussman, also known as Judy Blume, grew up in New Jersey. As a child, she loved to ballet dance and play piano for her friends and family. She even dreamt of becoming a move star someday! Growing up, Blume loved reading mystery books such as the Nancy Drew series. In 1961, she graduated from the university of New York with a bachelor’s degree in Education. When Blume’s early writing attempts failed, she returned to school to take a class called Writing for Children and Teenagers. After her professor commended her writing ability, Blume was motivated again to pursue her dream. In 1969, Judy Blume’s first book The One in the Middle is the Green Kangaroo was published. The rest, of course, is history!
Genre
Realistic Fiction
Curriculum Ties
Language Arts
Booktalking Ideas
Peter is in the fourth grade, and he knows how to behave properly. So, why doesn’t everybody like him like they do his brother Fudgie? Peter’s greatest fear is having Fudge hanging around his pet turtle, Dribble. Whenever Fudge is near, Peter fears for Dribble’s life! If you have younger siblings, you’ll know what Peter is talking about. Does your younger brother have temper tantrum like Fudge? You will enjoy this humorous Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing by Judy Blume, which is sure to make you laugh!
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 9-12
Reason for Book Selection
This book had been around forever! When I was a child like Peter, I remember thinking the same about my own younger sister. She was adorable, and everyone just loved her!
Blume, Judy. Are You there God? It’s Me, Margaret. Atheneum/Richard Jackson Books (2001). ISBN-10: 0689841582
Plot Summary
Margaret Simon is a young girl who has just moved to New Jersey from New York City. She makes friends with a girl named Nancy in her new neighborhood and three other girls in school. Altogether, they form a secret club called the “Pre-Teen Sensation” where they discuss many of their pre-teen concerns. Margaret spends time wondering about all the changes that her physical body will begin to go through when she reaches puberty. At this age, Margaret is secretly interested in boys and she discovers that that this is a difficult subject to share with her parents (or even her best friend). Along with all the changes Margaret is about to encounter, she also struggles with figuring out her religion. Secretly, Margaret develops her own imagined God, whom she believes can share her deepest thoughts and feelings. She prays to her God whenever she is confused or wants to be heard.
Critical Evaluation
Are You There God? It’s me, Margaret by Judy Blume has won numerous awards and has been a top choice for young readers for many years. In this book, Judy Blume’s Margaret explores many of the themes and topics that young girls are too afraid to talk about. Margaret touches on puberty, religion, boys, and life in general. The book contains humor, and it is wonderfully light-hearted!
Reader's Annotation
Margaret Simon is a realistic character who questions the growing changes that she is sure to endure in the future as a teenager.
About the Author
Judy Sussman, also known as Judy Blume, grew up in New Jersey. As a child, she loved to ballet dance and play piano for her friends and family. She even dreamt of becoming a move star someday! Growing up, Blume loved reading mystery books such as the Nancy Drew series. In 1961, she graduated from the university of New York with a bachelor’s degree in Education. When Blume’s early writing attempts failed, she returned to school to take a class called Writing for Children and Teenagers. After her professor commended her writing ability, Blume was motivated again to pursue her dream. In 1969, Judy Blume’s first book The One in the Middle is the Green Kangaroo was published. The rest, of course, is history!
Genre
Realistic Fiction
Curriculum Ties
Language Arts, Health Education
Booktalking Ideas
Are you wondering what your life as a pre-teen girl will be likel? If you are interested, then Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret is the book for you! Margaret Simon is an twelve-year-old girl who just moved to New Jersey from New York City. She makes friends with another girl named Nancy in her new neighborhood and three other girls in school. Altogether, they form a secret club called the “Pre-Teen Sensation” where they spend time discussing many of the concerns and changes that girls experience today.
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 9-12
Reason for Book Selection
I remember hearing all of the hype surrounding this book when I was a young teen. There was so much talk about the topics discussed in this book, and how shocking they were for kids our age. Of course, that just made me want to read it more! And all of these years later, I discovered that, like Margaret, my own daughter “wished” for the day when she would become a woman! ARGH!
Plot Summary
Margaret Simon is a young girl who has just moved to New Jersey from New York City. She makes friends with a girl named Nancy in her new neighborhood and three other girls in school. Altogether, they form a secret club called the “Pre-Teen Sensation” where they discuss many of their pre-teen concerns. Margaret spends time wondering about all the changes that her physical body will begin to go through when she reaches puberty. At this age, Margaret is secretly interested in boys and she discovers that that this is a difficult subject to share with her parents (or even her best friend). Along with all the changes Margaret is about to encounter, she also struggles with figuring out her religion. Secretly, Margaret develops her own imagined God, whom she believes can share her deepest thoughts and feelings. She prays to her God whenever she is confused or wants to be heard.
Critical Evaluation
Are You There God? It’s me, Margaret by Judy Blume has won numerous awards and has been a top choice for young readers for many years. In this book, Judy Blume’s Margaret explores many of the themes and topics that young girls are too afraid to talk about. Margaret touches on puberty, religion, boys, and life in general. The book contains humor, and it is wonderfully light-hearted!
Reader's Annotation
Margaret Simon is a realistic character who questions the growing changes that she is sure to endure in the future as a teenager.
About the Author
Judy Sussman, also known as Judy Blume, grew up in New Jersey. As a child, she loved to ballet dance and play piano for her friends and family. She even dreamt of becoming a move star someday! Growing up, Blume loved reading mystery books such as the Nancy Drew series. In 1961, she graduated from the university of New York with a bachelor’s degree in Education. When Blume’s early writing attempts failed, she returned to school to take a class called Writing for Children and Teenagers. After her professor commended her writing ability, Blume was motivated again to pursue her dream. In 1969, Judy Blume’s first book The One in the Middle is the Green Kangaroo was published. The rest, of course, is history!
Genre
Realistic Fiction
Curriculum Ties
Language Arts, Health Education
Booktalking Ideas
Are you wondering what your life as a pre-teen girl will be likel? If you are interested, then Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret is the book for you! Margaret Simon is an twelve-year-old girl who just moved to New Jersey from New York City. She makes friends with another girl named Nancy in her new neighborhood and three other girls in school. Altogether, they form a secret club called the “Pre-Teen Sensation” where they spend time discussing many of the concerns and changes that girls experience today.
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 9-12
Reason for Book Selection
I remember hearing all of the hype surrounding this book when I was a young teen. There was so much talk about the topics discussed in this book, and how shocking they were for kids our age. Of course, that just made me want to read it more! And all of these years later, I discovered that, like Margaret, my own daughter “wished” for the day when she would become a woman! ARGH!
Sachar, Louis. Holes. Farrar, Straus and Giroux (2008). ISBN-10: 0374332665
Plot Summary
Stanley Yelnats is a regular kid with an interesting family. His father is an unsuccessful inventor, and the Yelnats family is cursed with bad luck (“thanks to Stanley’s dirty-rotten-pig-stealing-great-great-grandfather who supposedly stole a pig from a one-legged gypsy who put a curse on him and his family”). Although Stanley’s parents don’t really believe this story, they are devastated by their bad luck when Stanley gets accused of a crime he did not commit and is sent to serve his time at Camp Green Lake. Camp Green Lake, however, is not as fun as it sounds; it’s really a dried up lake where campers spend their days digging holes! Stanley quickly learns to watch his back because if the poisonous lizards don’t get him, the other campers will!
Critical Evaluation
In this book, we are introduced to an exciting array of characters, including Armpit, X-Ray and Zero. They quickly become Stanley’s friends and help make his time digging holes a little more bearable. The more time Stanley spends at Camp Green Lake, the more we understand the mystery that surrounds the lake and Stanley’s connection to it. The story is definitely quirky, but absolutely enjoyable!
Reader's Annotation
The main character is called Stanley Yelnats - spelled the same front wards and backwards. How will he ever survive Camp Green Lake?
About the Author
Louis Sachar was born in East Meadow, New York, on March 20, 1954. When he was nine years old he moved to Tustin, California. Growing up, he was a typical kid and enjoyed math, little league and playing in the orange groves near his house. When he entered high school, he discovered a love of reading. Because of the sudden death of his father, Sachar withdrew from college in Antioch, and transferred to Berkley to be closer to his mother. While attending Berkley, he became a teachers’ aide, and he loved being around the children at the school. His experience would later become the inspiration for the book Sideways Stories from Wayside School. Today, his works include the Marvin Redpost series, Wayside School is Falling Down, The Boy Who Lost His Face, and Holes.
Genre
Fantasy Fiction
Science Ficiton
Curriculum Ties
Language Arts, Science, Social Studies
Booktalking Ideas
Meet Stanley Yelnats, the child of a cursed family! When he is accused of a crime he did not commit, he is sent to live at Camp Green Lake (not green and no lake). While he is serving his time, he eventually makes friends, and he learns of the weird connection between his family, his friend, and the warden. You won’t be disappointed! Check out Holes by Louis Sachar.
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 9-12, Grades 4-6
Reason for Book Selection
I first read this book a few years ago AFTER I had seen the movie. I was so surprised that the movie remained so true to the book. This, of course, is not always the case.
Plot Summary
Stanley Yelnats is a regular kid with an interesting family. His father is an unsuccessful inventor, and the Yelnats family is cursed with bad luck (“thanks to Stanley’s dirty-rotten-pig-stealing-great-great-grandfather who supposedly stole a pig from a one-legged gypsy who put a curse on him and his family”). Although Stanley’s parents don’t really believe this story, they are devastated by their bad luck when Stanley gets accused of a crime he did not commit and is sent to serve his time at Camp Green Lake. Camp Green Lake, however, is not as fun as it sounds; it’s really a dried up lake where campers spend their days digging holes! Stanley quickly learns to watch his back because if the poisonous lizards don’t get him, the other campers will!
Critical Evaluation
In this book, we are introduced to an exciting array of characters, including Armpit, X-Ray and Zero. They quickly become Stanley’s friends and help make his time digging holes a little more bearable. The more time Stanley spends at Camp Green Lake, the more we understand the mystery that surrounds the lake and Stanley’s connection to it. The story is definitely quirky, but absolutely enjoyable!
Reader's Annotation
The main character is called Stanley Yelnats - spelled the same front wards and backwards. How will he ever survive Camp Green Lake?
About the Author
Louis Sachar was born in East Meadow, New York, on March 20, 1954. When he was nine years old he moved to Tustin, California. Growing up, he was a typical kid and enjoyed math, little league and playing in the orange groves near his house. When he entered high school, he discovered a love of reading. Because of the sudden death of his father, Sachar withdrew from college in Antioch, and transferred to Berkley to be closer to his mother. While attending Berkley, he became a teachers’ aide, and he loved being around the children at the school. His experience would later become the inspiration for the book Sideways Stories from Wayside School. Today, his works include the Marvin Redpost series, Wayside School is Falling Down, The Boy Who Lost His Face, and Holes.
Genre
Fantasy Fiction
Science Ficiton
Curriculum Ties
Language Arts, Science, Social Studies
Booktalking Ideas
Meet Stanley Yelnats, the child of a cursed family! When he is accused of a crime he did not commit, he is sent to live at Camp Green Lake (not green and no lake). While he is serving his time, he eventually makes friends, and he learns of the weird connection between his family, his friend, and the warden. You won’t be disappointed! Check out Holes by Louis Sachar.
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 9-12, Grades 4-6
Reason for Book Selection
I first read this book a few years ago AFTER I had seen the movie. I was so surprised that the movie remained so true to the book. This, of course, is not always the case.
Sachar, Louis. Sideways Stories From Wayside School. HarperTeen (2004). ISBN-10: 0380731487
Plot Summary
The Wayside School is very unique indeed! It was supposed to be one story tall with thirty classrooms, but they accidentally built it 30 stories high with one classroom on each floor! (BTW: The builder is very sorry). The children, however, love their sideways school because their playground is much bigger than it was originally supposed to be. Each chapter of this book introduces us to a different member of Mrs. Jewl’s class on the 30th floor of the Wayside School. We learn about Mrs. Gorf, the meanest teacher in school. She turns her students into apples! Then there’s Mrs. Jewl, who, on her first day of teaching, thinks her students are all monkeys. And let’s not forget Todd – the boy who seems to get into trouble every day! As a punishment, he is forced to go home early each day on the kindergarten bus.
Critical Evaluation
This is a wacky and funny book that will keep you laughing from the moment you open it! The book contains 30 short stories – one for each of the students in the class and two for the teachers. The stories are absolutely ridiculous and seemingly inappropriate at times. Although I loved it, it contains very black humor, which may upset many readers. Use caution!
Reader's Annotation
Teaser: Read aloud from page 9.
"It has been said that these stories are strange and silly. That is probably true. However, when I told stories about you to the children at Wayside, they thought you were strange and silly. That is probably also true.”
About the Author
Louis Sachar was born in East Meadow, New York, on March 20, 1954. When he was nine years old he moved to Tustin, California. Growing up, he was a typical kid and enjoyed math, little league and playing in the orange groves near his house. When he entered high school, he discovered a love of reading. Because of the sudden death of his father, Sachar withdrew from college in Antioch, and transferred to Berkley to be closer to his mother. While attending Berkley, he became a teachers’ aide, and he loved being around the children at the school. His experience would later become the inspiration for the book Sideways Stories from Wayside School. Today, his works include the Marvin Redpost series, Wayside School is Falling Down, The Boy Who Lost His Face, and Holes.
Genre
Fiction (Humor)
Curriculum Ties
Language Arts, Science, Health
Booktalking Ideas
Imagine a school where instead of having 30 rooms on one floor, there are 30 floors with only one room on each floor! That is what Wayside School is like. If you are looking for laugh out loud entertainment, check out Louis Sachar’s Sideways Stories from Wayside School.
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 9-12
Reason for Book Selection
I remember this book from when I was younger. I thought it was funny then; but it is even funnier now! Yes, I know that some parts are inappropriate in today’s obsessively politically correct world. I still laughed, though!
Plot Summary
The Wayside School is very unique indeed! It was supposed to be one story tall with thirty classrooms, but they accidentally built it 30 stories high with one classroom on each floor! (BTW: The builder is very sorry). The children, however, love their sideways school because their playground is much bigger than it was originally supposed to be. Each chapter of this book introduces us to a different member of Mrs. Jewl’s class on the 30th floor of the Wayside School. We learn about Mrs. Gorf, the meanest teacher in school. She turns her students into apples! Then there’s Mrs. Jewl, who, on her first day of teaching, thinks her students are all monkeys. And let’s not forget Todd – the boy who seems to get into trouble every day! As a punishment, he is forced to go home early each day on the kindergarten bus.
Critical Evaluation
This is a wacky and funny book that will keep you laughing from the moment you open it! The book contains 30 short stories – one for each of the students in the class and two for the teachers. The stories are absolutely ridiculous and seemingly inappropriate at times. Although I loved it, it contains very black humor, which may upset many readers. Use caution!
Reader's Annotation
Teaser: Read aloud from page 9.
"It has been said that these stories are strange and silly. That is probably true. However, when I told stories about you to the children at Wayside, they thought you were strange and silly. That is probably also true.”
About the Author
Louis Sachar was born in East Meadow, New York, on March 20, 1954. When he was nine years old he moved to Tustin, California. Growing up, he was a typical kid and enjoyed math, little league and playing in the orange groves near his house. When he entered high school, he discovered a love of reading. Because of the sudden death of his father, Sachar withdrew from college in Antioch, and transferred to Berkley to be closer to his mother. While attending Berkley, he became a teachers’ aide, and he loved being around the children at the school. His experience would later become the inspiration for the book Sideways Stories from Wayside School. Today, his works include the Marvin Redpost series, Wayside School is Falling Down, The Boy Who Lost His Face, and Holes.
Genre
Fiction (Humor)
Curriculum Ties
Language Arts, Science, Health
Booktalking Ideas
Imagine a school where instead of having 30 rooms on one floor, there are 30 floors with only one room on each floor! That is what Wayside School is like. If you are looking for laugh out loud entertainment, check out Louis Sachar’s Sideways Stories from Wayside School.
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 9-12
Reason for Book Selection
I remember this book from when I was younger. I thought it was funny then; but it is even funnier now! Yes, I know that some parts are inappropriate in today’s obsessively politically correct world. I still laughed, though!
Paterson, Katherine. The Great Gilly Hopkins. HarperCollins (1987). ISBN-10: 0064402010
Plot Summary
The Great Gilly Hopkins, by Katherine Paterson, is about a girl who desperately wants to be with her mother. She is in the foster care system, and she believes that if she behaves badly enough, she will be sent to her real mother who happens to live in California. Gilly is not a nice girl. At the beginning of the story, she is mean, sneaky, and manipulative. And, she hates everyone around her. Although she has been placed with Mrs. Trotter, she is determined to get herself kicked out of the house. Eventually, she even tries to run away!
Critical Evaluation
This book is filled with emotion! Gilly is a funny and truly likeable character with a foul mouth. As readers, we travel with Gilly along her continuous struggle for emotional survival. She is a child who is seeking to find herself in a world without stability. Over time, Gilly changes from a racist, mean, conniving thief into a loveable human being. This book is perfect for all ages.
Reader's Annotation
Will Gilly make it to California and her mother? Find out in The Great Gilly Hopkins, by Katherine Paterson.
About the Author
Katherine Paterson was born in China in 1932. Patterson’s parents were missionaries, eventually returning to the U.S. after the 1937 Japanese invasion of China. Because the family moved often, Paterson attended over a dozen schools by the time she graduated from high school in 1950. It was difficult for her to make new friends, and her school years would eventually become a huge influence in her writing. In 1954, Paterson graded from King College in Tennessee where she studied literature. After spending some time as an elementary school teacher, she decided to become a missionary. She received her master’s degree in English Bible and Christian Education in 1957.
Eventually Paterson decided that she wanted to become a writer. But, most of her initial works were rejected by publishers. A friend later suggested that Paterson take an adult education course on creative writing, after which she took a class on writing for children. During this class, Paterson wrote her first novel, The Sign of the Chrysanthemum, which was set in Japan, and was released after years of revisions in 1973.
To date, Katherine Paterson has written over two dozen books, and won over fifty awards. Nearly all of her books have won multiple awards; Bridge to Terabithia, for which she is perhaps most well known, won eight awards, including the 1978 Newbery Medal.
Genre
Realistic Fiction
Curriculum Ties
Language Arts
Health
Booktalking Ideas
Have you been looking for the perfect book – one that will make you laugh and cry? I have the book for you! Katherine Paterson’s The Great Gilly Hopkins is about a girl who learns to survive the trials of foster care. She is an angry girl who discovers that love is just around the corner. This book is sure to make you a Katherine Paterson fan!
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 9-12,
Reason for Book Selection
I have always loved this book. I think I even have a little “Gilly” that lives inside of me!
Plot Summary
The Great Gilly Hopkins, by Katherine Paterson, is about a girl who desperately wants to be with her mother. She is in the foster care system, and she believes that if she behaves badly enough, she will be sent to her real mother who happens to live in California. Gilly is not a nice girl. At the beginning of the story, she is mean, sneaky, and manipulative. And, she hates everyone around her. Although she has been placed with Mrs. Trotter, she is determined to get herself kicked out of the house. Eventually, she even tries to run away!
Critical Evaluation
This book is filled with emotion! Gilly is a funny and truly likeable character with a foul mouth. As readers, we travel with Gilly along her continuous struggle for emotional survival. She is a child who is seeking to find herself in a world without stability. Over time, Gilly changes from a racist, mean, conniving thief into a loveable human being. This book is perfect for all ages.
Reader's Annotation
Will Gilly make it to California and her mother? Find out in The Great Gilly Hopkins, by Katherine Paterson.
About the Author
Katherine Paterson was born in China in 1932. Patterson’s parents were missionaries, eventually returning to the U.S. after the 1937 Japanese invasion of China. Because the family moved often, Paterson attended over a dozen schools by the time she graduated from high school in 1950. It was difficult for her to make new friends, and her school years would eventually become a huge influence in her writing. In 1954, Paterson graded from King College in Tennessee where she studied literature. After spending some time as an elementary school teacher, she decided to become a missionary. She received her master’s degree in English Bible and Christian Education in 1957.
Eventually Paterson decided that she wanted to become a writer. But, most of her initial works were rejected by publishers. A friend later suggested that Paterson take an adult education course on creative writing, after which she took a class on writing for children. During this class, Paterson wrote her first novel, The Sign of the Chrysanthemum, which was set in Japan, and was released after years of revisions in 1973.
To date, Katherine Paterson has written over two dozen books, and won over fifty awards. Nearly all of her books have won multiple awards; Bridge to Terabithia, for which she is perhaps most well known, won eight awards, including the 1978 Newbery Medal.
Genre
Realistic Fiction
Curriculum Ties
Language Arts
Health
Booktalking Ideas
Have you been looking for the perfect book – one that will make you laugh and cry? I have the book for you! Katherine Paterson’s The Great Gilly Hopkins is about a girl who learns to survive the trials of foster care. She is an angry girl who discovers that love is just around the corner. This book is sure to make you a Katherine Paterson fan!
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 9-12,
Reason for Book Selection
I have always loved this book. I think I even have a little “Gilly” that lives inside of me!
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