Book Review- Dark Son

Book Review



Grimes, Nikki., Dark Sons, Zandervan, 2010, ISBN- 9780786818884

This novel is presented in  two stories a modern day version and a biblical version.  The  two teen males Ishmael (biblical)  and Sam (Modern day).  The plot shares the Abraham and Sarah story.  Ishmael have in relationship problems with his father and Sam experiencing relationship issues of today like his parents divorcing and his farther remarrying.  The two boy experiences  feelings of abandonment, anger, and uncertainty which makes it had for them to embrace the changes that has be brought to the through no fault of their own.  Grimes stretched with this novel and insisted her readers come along for the ride.  Grimes used a short verse format which made the book easy to read.  This novel deals with a great deal of emotions " point out the words where God says divorce is no biggie,  that you can dump your wife and kid and walk away and that's okay."  These two boys are growing up they are different but experience similar issues.  Grimes make this book hard to explain if there is no biblical background but easy to understand the real to life concerns.  Teen with the same or similar issues may find this book helpful.

"Compelling as a work in its own right"  The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

"Both lyrical and powerful" Publishers Weekly

" Challenged readers can admire and learn from these stories of " School Library Journal

Awards

Coetta Scott King Book Award, 2006
Young Reader's Choice Award 2008
Garden State Teen Book Award 2008

Discussion questions

1.  How  would you explain the book to someone else?
2.  Are the feelings that Ishmael and Sam experience valid?
3.  How are Ishmael and Sam similar and different?
4.  How are the emotions of Ishmael and Sam enhance?

Book Review- Keesha's House

Book Review- Keesha's House

 



Frost, Helen., Keesha's House, Frances Foster Books/Farrar, Straus and Giroux, New York, 2003. ISBN-9780374400125

This well put together book shares the life seven teens struggling to make sense of the world and the circumstances the have been put into.  Keesha a high school student who finds this house as safe shelter to escape her drunk abusive father.  The house is not owned by Keesha but by Joe a young man that grew up there with his grandmother.  After Joe's grandmothers death he wanted to honor her by helping others, Joe allowed his home to serve as a refuge for troubled teens.  Keesha who is receiving help for Joe also reaches out the help others who need a place to go.  These teens are experiencing abuse, pregnancy,drinking, homosexuality, addiction and more.  Frost nicely presented this novel in a poetic style.  The seven teens share their stories using sentinas and sonnets.  Frost captured the readers attention and kept it.  Frost uses good descriptive language in each poem that stirs the readers emotions,  Sometimes I Wonder- by Carmen "sometimes it seem like it don't matter if you lie or tell the truth people pick what that want to believe" Carmen is in a bit of despair, and appears to have little or no fighting power.   "Grandmama believes me, that I want to try.  She says , Girl, no matter what you do, I keep believin' in you"  these statements makes it easy for the reader to see Carmen and feel what she is going through.  Frost brings each one of the characters to life by revealing real to life issues that teens face.  This is a easy short read and may offer understanding or lesson about for other teens.

"Impressive" Kirkus Reviews

"Spare, eloquent, and elegantly concise." VOYA

"Frost has taken the poem- story to a new level with well crafted sestinas and sonnets leading readers into the souls and psyches of her teen protagonists" School Library Journal

Awards

Micheal L. Printz  Award. 2004
White Ravens Award. 2004
Blue Hen Book Award. 2005
Garden State Teen Book. 2006
South Carolina Young Adult Award. 2006

Discussion Questions from Farrar Straus Giroux Discussion Guide

1. When reading the book, were you aware of the poetic forms being used? Whether or not you were conscious of it, how did the rhythm and line breaks affect your reading of the book?

2. Did you begin to recognize and differentiate between the individual voices?

3. The author has divided the book into eight parts. Why do you think she did that? How would you define the mood in each part? Describe how the mood changes as the book progresses.

4. You learn that the house is really Joe’s. Why does it become known as Keesha’s house?

5. Look for dynamic and static characters in the book (those who change as opposed to those who don’t). Select and compare three or four of the characters. What difficulty is each facing? How has it affected his/her life? Imagine what might become of the character in the future.

6. Choose a poem from the book that you enjoy, and explore it in depth. What is the poetic form? What is the rhyme scheme? Does the author use imagery, metaphor, simile, or dialect in the poem?

7. Select an excerpt to read as a monologue, or, with a group, act out a part of the book as a play.

Book Review - Stop Pretending

Stop Pretending

Sones,Sonya., Stop Pretending, Harper Collins, New York, 2000, ISBN- 9780064462181

This is a unique piece of information presented in a poem format.  A 13 year-old girl, Cookie experiences her sister entering into a manic episode on Christmas Eve.  The older sister screams, and hears voices and eventually she was hospitalized.  This book is narrated by the 13 year old Cookie in  first person.  Cookie is fearful, embarrassed, and lacks understanding of what and why her family is experiencing such a mishap. Cookies parents drift apart in their on way only focusing on their oldest daughters illness. Cookie meets a young boy who helps her learn to cope with this misfortune by writing. Eventually Cookies sister recovers.  Sones base this novel on her personal experience as a child.  The author used short poems but with very powerful  meanings "When I was lost,/you were the one/who found me./Now you're the one/who's lost,/ and I can't find you anywhere."  This book is not just a book but an informational session that provides hope to others that may have love ones suffering from mental illness, and share experiences that families may face. This is a good book.

" This is one of the most beautiful and most disturbing books aimed at young people that I have ever read."
Children's Literature

"Based on Sones' own family experience, this debut novel shows the capacity of poetry " Booklist

" Individually, the poems appear simple and unremarkable, snapshot portraita of two sisters, a family, unfaithful friends, and a sweet first love." Kirkus

Awards

Christopher Award, 2000
Myra Cohn Livingston Award for Poetry. 2000
Maine Student Book Award 2001
Evergreen Young Adult Book Award 2002

Questions for discussion from Stop Pretending's reading group guide

1.		How do you think you would react to finding out that someone you knew had mental illness? Were you surprised by Molly and Kate’s reaction?
2.		Can you think of any situation in which you wish you had been a better friend?
3.		Is there anyone in your family who is throwing the whole rest of the family off kilter? How do you feel about that person?
4.		What are some ways you can support a friend who is going through a hard time?
5.		What are some ways you can support a family member who is going through a hard time

Book Review - The Book Thief

The Book Thief





Zusak, Markus., The Book Thief, Alfred A. Knopf, 2006, New York ISBN- 9780375831003

This is a detailed story narrated by death and mimics poetry.  This novel is about a young girl name Liesel.  The setting takes place in World War II.  Liesel mother is no longer able to care for her and her brother as a result  Liesel and her brother must have foster care, on the way to their new home Liesel's brother dies and has to be buried.  Liesel is encourage to steal for fun by her neighbor Rudy.  Liesel enjoys reading the books that she steals by using them to escape her life.  Zusak uses fiction to introduce a strong young lady that faces uncontrollable situations and use the only coping skills she knows,  Zusak uses the WWII setting but the main character Liesel face some of the same issues that today's teens face.  Zusak reveals Liesel having encounters with a separated family, death, loneliness, violence,racism, finding comfort, and peer pressure "At school , Rudy made a special point of seeking Liesel out during the breaks.  He didn't care that others made noises about the new girls stupidity"Liesel was a victim of people she knew and people she did not know.  The author's story is revealed through reading   a young girl finds the strength to rise above her stressful life and find happiness.  The narrator which is death contributes to a bit of confusion to the novel by entering in and out and presenting his problem of been haunted by humans as he gathers souls of the dead as he continues to tell Liesel's story.  Zusak reveals that both Liesel and Death learn lessons of endurance, inflicting, bestowing, and accomplishing from sadness.  This piece of work  reveals desuetude but offers hope, this is a good read for older teens.




"Outstanding"  Children's Book and Play Review

"Struck with this books uniqueness"  Children's Literature

" Unforgettable Novel"  Cooperative Children's Book Center Choices

" The writing is elegant, philosophical and moving. Even at its length, it's a work to read solely and savor"  Kirkus Reviews

Awards

Parent's Choice Award 2006

American Booksellers Book Sense Book of the Year (ABBY) Award 2007

Garden State Teen Book Award 2009

Indigo Teen Read Award 2010

Essay Questions

1  Why do Max and Liesel become friends?  What do they have in common?

2. When Liesel reads reads aloud to the others in the bomb shelter for the first time, a voice inside her says   "This is your accordion" what does that mean?

3. Why does death tell Liesel that it is "haunted" by humans?

Book Review- Copper Sun

Copper Sun



Draper, Sharon M., Copper Sun, Atheneum Books 2006, New York, ISBN- 9780689821813


Draper does a remarkable job creating this historical fiction novel.  Amari a 15 year old girl experiences slavery in great depth.  Amari is forced from her home and put into slavery, her family murdered.
Amari experiences humiliation through no fault of her own, and is given to her slavery masters son only for labor and sexual exploitation.  Amari experiences rape, verbal and physical abuse senseless killings,and child birth.  Amari become friends with a white girl named Polly and Tidbit and a few more oppressed people that helped Amari cope with her situation.  Even though Amari's life is a living hell she still had hope and a bit of fight in her soul " Amari took a deep breath closed her eyes, and this time it was her turn to spit.  She spat directly in his face.  Clay roared and slapped her so hard that her head bounced back against the tree trunk.  Amari glared at him Amari struggle against the ropes. she had never been so  angry.If he hurt Tidbit, she would kill him she vowed" Amari begins to draw on her strength and will to live and escape.  Draper does a great job producing realistic situations for her fictional characters, she captures racism, abuse, violence, family loss, and relationships the same elements that today's teens face.  Draper presented factual events of slavery holding nothing back.  Draper is very descriptive and leaves nothing to the imagination.  Draper is clever in revealing each characters strengths and weaknesses and using their uniqueness to build friendships.  Although the situation the characters face are extreme the self-worth and visions they have  may be empowering to a teen in a less favorable situation.



" A searing work of historical fiction that will eave readers breathless, even as they consider the story's larger questions about the infinite costs of slavery and how to reconcile history"  Booklist, starred review

"This action packed, multifaceted, character rich story describes the shocking realities of the slave trade and plantation life while portraying the perseverance, resourcefulness, and triumph of the human spirit."  School Library journal, starred review

" Draper has captured the essence of teens caught up in peer pressure who must ultimately live with the results of their actions.  Her characters are deeply human a compelling read."  School Library Journal

Awards

 Coretta Scott King Book Awards 2007
 Heartland Award for Excellence in Children's Literature 2007
 Ohioana Book Awards 2007

Discussion Questions

1. The very first page just before chapter one, tells of a slave sale and hoe it must feel to be fifteen years old, stripped naked, and standing on the auction block.  Describe the feelings and fears of the girl being sold.  What predictions can the reader make about the girl and the rest of the story?

2. Explain the title of the novel.  Why does the title have more than one possible interpretation?  Find several examples of references to "copper sun" within the story.

3. How is the relationship between Amari and her parents, and her brother and how does the strength of her family make a difference in her life?

Book Review- 33 Things

Book Review - 33 Things Every Girl Should know




Bolden, Tonya., 33 Things Every Girl Should Know, Crown Publishers, 1998, New York, ISBN- 9780517709368

This title is  very catchy and misleading however the book's cover offers a better understanding of the  by listing the names of 33 women who share their personal information.  This creatively well put together collection of information offers a wealth of diversity, through a collection of poems, essays, short stories, photos, drawings, and humor.  Judith Ortiz Cofer's Seize The Day provides thought provoking moments that can relax and revitalizes ones mind a passage that stood out was "step outside and breathe deeply.  Take in the smells of life, good and foul.  Remember this day is a gift" Cofer  gracefully showed us how  to seize the day in this passage.
Envision by Vera Wang shares her experiences having vision, working through obstacles, and entrepreneurship.  Mary Catherine Bateson reveals her views on loneliness in her work of Some Solitude Is Good " A lot of girls are taught to feel vulnerable when they are alone, even at home.  A lot of girls grow up expecting to find to find fulfillment only in being with others.  But being alone is apart of being your own" Bateson holds no punches in revealing a bit of self worth.  Bolden displays humor, honesty, wisdom, self worth, education, and relationships through the eyes of 33 women.  Bolden shows how famous and successful women struggle and explored coping magnetisms to help with the teen years. The author created a realistic collection of information by using real people with real problems and concerns.  The information shared was empowering to  the lives of teens and young adults alike.  The author did a splended job at gaining the audience's attention and keeping it.

"This excellent collection brings together the voices and art of some of our time's best and brightest."  Booklist

"A terribly earnest collection of advice that ranges from preachy to peachy"  Kirkus Reviews

" It's a mixing bag of inspiration, advice, fiction, and personal history be a wide variety of notable women"  KLIATT Review

Winner 1999 ALA Best Book for Young Adults

Actvities

1. Before reading the book keep a journal for two or three weeks about visions, plans, obstacals, relationships, self-worth and reflect.

2. After reading the compare the information shared by these 33 women to your information.  What are some simiularties and diffierences?  What can you relate to on a personal level?

3.  Choose a piece of your work and have your classmates to do the same and create a book simular to this  to share with other teens.

Elsewhere

Book Review

 

Zevin, Gabrielle,. Elsewhere, May 2007, Square Fish, ISBN- 9780312367466

 

Liz is a teenage girl that is killed in an car accident.  Liz founds herself somewhere that reminds her of earth but it is not earth.  Liz is confused but  this place is very pleasant and no one appears to be growing old but Liz know this is strange and not to happy about this situation all Liz has on her mind is turning sixteen,  Liz meets family members died before they was born.  Liz misses her friends and life as she knew it.  Liz asks about God and is told he is the same she never really gets complete answers or clarity.  The characters are realistic and Liz just wants who other teens wants and that's to have another birthday and the be with friends and in control.  Zevin revealed some common teen issues even for a teen after death.

 

 

 

 

Awarded- Best Book of the Year - School Library Journal

 

 

 

 

"Even readers who have strong views on what happens after death may find themselves intriged by the fascinating world of Elsewhere" Janis Flint- Ferguson 

 

"Loosely reminiscent of Greek myths"- School Library Journal

 

"Gabrielle Zevin has constructed a fascinating 'what if?' Great humor and speculation, on pets as well as people." - Chicago Tribune

 

 

 

 

Activity before reading the book

 

Imagine that you have experienced an out of body experience explain what you think would happened.

 

Discuss any information you are familiar with about life after death,such as your believes, thoughts, etc..

Pretties

Book Review

 

 

 

Westerfeld, Scott,.Pretties, Simon Pulse, May 2011, ISBN- 9781442419803

 

This novel has a title that just grabs you Pretties this title prompts you to wait for more.  Westerfelds

character Tally is a very typical teen who just wants what most young girls want and that's to be pretty.  Tally let her want rule her and has to remember what back when things were not so pretty. Tally goes through the extreme to fit in.  After a life change Tally begin to behave like the in crowd by drinking and partying.  Westerfeld  presents some common teen issues such as peer pressure, low self-esteem, transformation, drinking, partying, and maturing.  Westerfeld lays out real life issues and situations with an interesting plot of a teen having  the ultimate goal of having fun.  Although the novel has action and an interesting plot I really had to focus to read this book.  Engaging the reader was not easy.  This story reminded me of the ugly duckling stories year after year. 

 

 

Discussion questions before reading

 

1.  Why is self-esteem important?

2. How do you feel about others perception of you and why?

3. What issues have you faced based on the views of someone else?

 

" Exceptional book"- KLIATT

" Westerfeld has built a masterfully complex and vivid civilization"- Caestecker Public Library

 

 

 

Breaking Dawn Book Review

Meyer, Stephenie.,Breaking Dawn, August 2008, Little, Brown Young Readers, ISBN 9780316067935

Stephenie Meyer graciously presents the giddy Bella a teen who falls in love with  Edward a vampire and  Jacob a werewolf.  Bella chooses the to marry the vampire although she continues to have feeling for the werewolf.  Bella agrees to let her human nature go and become a vampire for the near future, shortly after the wedding Bella discovers that she is pregnant.  Bella's vampire husband is a bit uneasy about the pregnancy and thinks the child inside of his wife may be a demon.  Bella comes near to death upon giving birth and to save her, Edward takes drastic measures.  The child of Bella and Edward faces danger from other vampires when the misunderstand how Bella's child became a vampire. Meyer dose a wonderful job with the vampire, werewolf, and human relationships.  Meyer presents Bella with many aspects of an ordinary teen even thought she is everything but ordinary.  Meyer reveal friendships, love, sex, marriage, childbirth, transformation and misconceptions which is often experienced by teens and young adults.  The story line stayed strong and had no problem capturing the readers attention. This novel is very long but engaging. This novel was full of action and had hints of a great love story.

Discussion questions  after reading this novel

1.  Was Bella really ready for all of her life changes/? What made her ready or unprepared?

2.  What are some similar issues to today's teens the Bella faces?

3 What common issues Edward and Jacob experience that are similar to today's teens?

"This isn't about happy endings it's about gratification"  - Publishers Weekly

British Book Award - 2009

Book Review- I'd Tell you I Love You , But then I'd Have to Kill You

Book Review

Carter, Ally., Disney Hyperion, 2006, ISBN- 9781423100034



Fifteen year old Cameron who is a spy with many gifts, who attends the Gallagher Academy and her mother is the headmistress of Gallagher Academy.  Cameron knows how to accomplish her goals by any mean necessary, until her teenage desire stops her in her tracks.  Josh Abrams (the subject) is attracted to Cameron and thinks that she is a regular teenage girl. Cameron has mutual feelings for Josh. After many lies and secrets Josh is uncertain about the whole relationship.  Carter presents honesty, dishonesty, friendships, feelings and discion making, Violence, sex and common language used by teens in this wonderful piece of work.  Carter uses common behaviors of teens and not so common behaviors of teens.  Building the plot around a teen girl attending a spy academy provides an interesting twist and keeps the reader reading just to see what adventure Cameron will engage in next and how will it turn out. Learning how to talk to boys could be Cameron's biggest job yet as Cameron learns her true self worth. 

" Carter's diverting entry into the flurry of teen espionage novels flashing loads of girl power"  Publishers Weekly

"Clearly chick lit for teens"- Children's Literature

"Raudman's overly dramatic narration is appropriate for the story and will keep listeners interested,"- School Library

Discussion Questions

1.  In the beginning did Cameron want to tell Josh the truth?

2.  Do you think Cameron's dishonesty to Josh was fair?

3. Why was having a relationship so tough for Cameron and how could she have handled this situation better?

Book Review- Vanishing Act

Feinstein, John, Yearling/Random House,  ISBN -9780440421252

Steve Thomas and Susan Carol Anderson pride themselves on mystery solving.  Steve and Susan have not seen each other in a while, in the past Steve and Susan worked on a project together and after they remained in touched with each other.  Steve and Susan both are in the reporting and writing  business.  Susan Carol gets an assignment cover the U.S. open and convinces Steve to come alone.  Steve gets a job as well and they both go to Washington.  Before the opening starts Nadia Makarova  one of the popular tennis players are missing and Steve and Susan Carol find themselves solving another mystery.  Steve and Susan Carol takes their job to a higher level and holds nothing back at expressing their eagerness to to work through a conversation with Kelleher who is a supervisor at the Washington Post "enough Kelleher exploded as if reading Steve's mind.  "We need to decide what to do next." He looked at Susan Carol and Steve. " You guys still up for working on this?'  "Are you kidding?" Steve said. " Of course we are. Intrigue is our specialty, don't you remember?".  Feinstein presented a live professional sporting event he used real scenes Arthur Ashe Stadium, Feinstein used both real and fictional sports players, and other personal of the US Open.
Feinstein uses action and suspense to keep the reader engaged, however if the reader is not familiar with the terms in tennis or the sports arena it may take a while to follow this novel.  Feinstein displayed bravery, determination, friendship, and foul play in the easy to read novel.

Discussion Questions

1.  Was Nadia really kidnapped and why?
2. Why was Steve and Susan Carol willing to solve this mystery?
3.What interest does Kelleher have in this mystery?

"The mystery will hold readers to the very end,culminating in an exciting match and surprise arrest"- Kirkus

"Although the main characters are predictable , the use of kid-friendly terminology, contemporary personalities in the tennis world, and factual information about the game may appeal to savvy tennis fans."-  School library Journal

   

Book Review- Staying Fat for Sarah Byrnes

Biography - Crutcher, Chris, Greenwillow Books, 1993, ISBN 9780060094898

Staying Fat for Sarah Byrnes   produced and outstanding has a very attractive book cover that is colorful and sparks the readers interest.  On the inside the author reveals outstanding literature that develops slow and strong.  Eric Calhoune who was called (Moby) by his peers due to his obesity.  Sarah Byrnes a badly scared young lady who is Eric's friend.  Eric and Sarah became friends due to the fact that both of them were considered outcast because of their appearance by their classmates.  Eric and Sarah Byrnes who only wanted to be called by her full name are loyal and do not want to lose their friendship.  Eric joins the swim team and begins to lose weight, however he continues his bad eating habits to stay fat so he want lose Sarah Byrnes as his friend.  Sarah Byrnes shuts down and stop speaking and has to go to a mental ward,  because she she fears her abusive father and thinks he may return.  Crutcher presents so many elements in this novel that the reader will find a connection .  Crutcher shows peer pressure, bullying, abuse, violence, poor self-image, religion, suicide, depression, friendship, humor, courage, and self- awareness.  All of the characters were true to life, and active., each one had their own problems but were able to work together to help each other.  This is a great fit for readers ages 12-14.

Discussion Questions

1. Do you know someone thats consisdered an outcast and how does this label affect them?

2.  Do you think that Eric's tacktics to help Sarah was effective or could it have be better?

3. What was so powerful about this group of students labeled outcast that made them over come their issues?

1997- California Young Reader Medal- Young Adult
1995- Joan Fassler Memorial Book Award for Best Medical-Related Children's Book

"superb plotting, extraordinary characters and crackling narrative make this novel one to be devoured in a single unforgettable sitting"-  Publishers Weekly

"Crutcher places the issues of shame, narrow-mindedness, and abuse.  Once the story takes hold you move along at such a rapid clip that by the end you're holding on for dear life"- Children's Literature

" A story about a friendship with staying power, written with pathos and pointed humor"  School Library Journal



 

Twisted

Book Review

Anderson, Laurie Halse, Penguin Group, 2008, ISBN 9780142411

Twisted is simply awesome.  Tyler Miller a teenager from a family with economic stability attends a local public high school.  Tyler has a reputation of being seen but not seen as important among his peers. Tyler's reputation changes after he commits the act of creating graffiti on school property and is arrested, and sentenced to a rough community service project that not only builds his character but his statue as well.   Now Tyler has a new look, a new reputation and a new admirer that had never given him the much wanted attention before.  Tyler participates in a uncertain situation when he returns the attention to his admirer Bethany who is also the daughter of her fathers boss and the sister of one of biggest bullies in Tyler's world.  Tyler is a teen that is face with life head on holding nothing back and taking him to thoughts of wanting to escape by death.  Anderson did an impeccable job of bring this novel to life.  Tyler's character makes the reader feel all of his experiences, Anderson allows Tyler to express his thoughts with improper grammar and swearing.  Anderson revealed real life issues that teens may experience peer pressure, bullying, getting trouble, sex, drinking, family trouble, identity, honesty, emotions, death, running away, and maturing.  Tyler's turn point was well presented  when stated " I'm not the problem here " Anderson's introduces another side of Tyler with this statement that keeps the  reader wanting to read more.  This book is good for young adults as well as mature high school students.

Discussion questions
1.  What  led Tyler to his insecurities before he was arrested? And what could he have done to prevent this?

2. What part did Tyler's family play in his identiy ?

3. What undercover issues may have hunted Bethany and her brother ?

4. What are altenative actions could Tyler have taken after his summer work experiences?

5. What do you think about the behavior Bethany displayed at the party and what could Tyler have done about it?

Kirkus Starred Reviews- "Poignant and gripping"
KLIATT - " A Laurie Halse Anderson novel comes with certain standard features:lively prose, witty descriptions, short chapters, tense action, and complex characters"

 Margaret A Edwards Award 2009

Hope Was Here

Book Review

Bauer, Joan, Puffin Books, 2002, ISBN 014240424

Hope is a sixteen year old girl that's had a few hard knocks in life but has learned to bounce back, Hope is being raised by her aunt Addie in Brooklyn who takes on another job in Wisconsin working at a diner.  Hope and her aunt Addie meet many people but one special person is G.T. the owner of the diner who is not in the best of health, but decides to run for Mayor.  Hope and her aunt Addie builds a strong relationship with G.T.   Bauer displays family issues, career growth, building relationships, broken relationships, illness, corruptness, and politics Bauer presented  a hard working teen dealing with hand of life that  has been presented to her.  Hope  obviously wants to make a statement by leaving her symbol behind when she moves  "Hope was Here".  Bauer builds a realistic true to life story,  she allows the characters to say things that makes the reader think that they are face to face with the character.  Bauer shows this teen mature side when Hope states " because Hope is something that everyone needs"  after explaing why so many customers order her name sake sandwich Keep Hoping.   Bauer reveals a happy sad but better life twist. This is a good read for teens and young adults.

Discussion Questions

1. Why do you think Hope continued to have hope ?

2. What type of influence does G.T. have on Hope and Addie and why?

3. Was Addie and G.T. leaders why or why not ? and what does a strong leader needs?

4. What part does Hope play in the campaign? How does she gain her helpful skills?

A Newbry Honor Book

Winner of the Chrostopher Award

Kirkus-Review- " This wacky ride through affairs of the heart never grows predictable"

Publishers weekly- "Readers are likely to gobble this up so much comfort food"

Along For the Ride

Book Review

Dessen, Sarah, Along For the Ride, Penguin Group, April 2011, ISBN- 0142415561

Experiencing divorce as strong as her parents typical teenager Auden realizes that stills need to live life a little.  Auden works hard to please both of her parents by remaining academically acceptable. To get a break from academics Auden decided to visit her father and stepmom for the summer that lives on the beach.  Auden also has a new sibling in her life.  On her vacation opportunity reveals itself to Auden she has a chance to work for her stepmother in her boutique, meet other teens, and her social life develops with parties and more. She meets a young man named Eli and develops a strong liking for him. Author Dessen depicts a divorced family, a blended family, friendships, death and maturing from the eyes of a teen that has learned to cope with life issues and makes the decision to explore life.  Dessen presents the characters in such a real manner the reader instantly connects Dessen used language with expression typical of teenagers “it was simply annoying just like everything else about my stepmother, Heidi”.  The plot is so realistic it keeps the attention of the reader and provides encouragement to turn the next page.  Dessen reveals the growth of teens in a positive way.  This book’s cover provides a hint of mystery which sparks interest at the front of the book a map that makes you wonder where it will lead.  This book is a great easy read the author brought realism to the highest level imaginable.  

Discussion questions after reading.

  What do you think made Auden decided to have a change from her normal pace of academics to visiting her father?

 How do Auden and Eli connect?

  How are the dynamics of these character similar to your or someone you know?

The Horn Book Review- “Rounding out her latest offering with richly depicted female friendships, Dessen offers up a summertime tale of self-discovery”

Kirkus Review- “This wacky ride through affairs of the heart never grows predictable”

Indigo Teen Read Award, 2010

Colorado Blue Spruce Young Adult Book Award, 2011
Iowa Teen Award, 2011-2012

     

What I Saw and How I Lied

Review

Blundell Judy, Scholastic, Inc., 2010, 0439903483

Blundell gently introduces fifteen year old Evie and all the turmoil in her world. Evie has the sheer pleasure of living with her mother Beverly, and her stepfather.  Evie’s mother and stepfather are both living a bit of a foil life, contrary to the belief of Evie.  Blundell created a setting after World-War II in America; nevertheless this teen experienced a full fast road which encourages her to grow up fast.  Evie is dealing with a strong crash on young handsome Peter whom her parents know and appears to be in some type of business with. Evie is also slowly and quietly uncovering elements of her parent’s life and behavior that are least desirable.  Blundell does a great with the descriptive language as Evie’s mother describes her feelings for Evie’s biological father “ I Loved him like a fever” Blundell revealed family togetherness, business, cheating, stealing, lying, bitterness, maturity, honor, and love, all in the same book. This book will really be good for high school students to explore Evie’s life and how she contributed to the family situation.  The author keeps the reader involved in this book each page has a hint of wondering.  This novel is full of adult action however it’s viewed through the eye of a teenager.

Response Activity – Question for students. Have you ever lied?  Allow student to recall a time the lied, and ask what the reason was? And would you do it again and why or why not?  Ask questions before reading of the book.

What suggestions do you have for Evie?  -  Ask students after reading the book

“unforgettable novel with romance, twist, and surprises”   Children’s Literature

“Judy Blundell has crafted a noir novel for YA’s set just after WWII” KLIATT Review.

Winner of 2008 National Book Award for Young People’s Literature

    

The Chocolate War

Review

Cormier, Robert., The Chocolate War, Random House Children Books, New York, New York., 1974, 0440944597

Robert Cormier did a fairly good job capturing a high school student’s life. The author addressed activities the high school students are faced with such as extra curricula activities and extra issues such as peer pressure. Jerry is a high school football player, and Archie is the head of a group or society club called the vigils who runs the school, this group wants to sale a great deal of chocolate. Jerry is pressured into joining them and selling chocolate, but he does not want to be a part of this. Cormier perfectly presents real life drama of high school students, but lacked some detail of the characters. Cormier did display true to life activities such as not so good language, stealing, verbal and physical abuse among peers. The author engages the reader by revealing a small amount of the plot at a time make the reader want to continue reading. This book was full of many turns through by offers a great reality look at bullying and personal identity. This is a good read for ages 13 and up. This book was a bit hard to get into and follow at first however due to the slow development it keeps the reader’s attention.

Responsive Activity - Think about a bullying situation for you or someone you know three fold a sheet of paper and list What you/ someone else did?, What you wanted to do about the situation? And what should you have done?

School Library Journal " The Characterization of all the boys are superd"

Kirkus " Compellingly immediate... Readers will respect the uncompromising ending"

The First Part Last

Book Review
By Kathey Smith

Review

Johnson, Angela., The Frist Part Last, Simon & Schuster, 2003, 0689849222
Johnson did an awesome job capturing the unpredictable life involving teen pregnancy. The main character Bobby appears so real that the reader has clear view of Bobby and, his family, and his issues. Johnson takes the readers through the past and the present smoothly. Bobby is caught unprepared to be a father; however that’s not all he is unprepared for. Bobby's life starts to fall like stacked dominos, when not only he learns he is going to be a father, from his currant girlfriend Nia, his family is parted due to this issue, the child's mother suffers a tragedy. This book offers a good look at teen pregnancy from a not so common view.  Emotional spouts are present that represents the emotional aspects experienced by the teen father that makes the reader want to reach out and help this character. This book is a good read and will appeal to many teen readers due to the real like life issues with family, and friends the author addresses about the character faces.  Although there is robust language used Johnson continues to let her reader know this is a boy on the way to manhood. The cover of this book alone can serve as a hook for many teen readers, as well as a teen father beginning an uncertain era of life and ending life as he knew it.  Teens may want to ask Bobby or other's like Bobby  and ask what thoughts came to mind first when they found themselves in this sitution?  And what would they do differently.  What suggestions for Bobby do the teen reader have for Bobby.  What do you think Bobby did about his sitution?

Publisher Weekly "The author skillfuly relates the hope in the mist of pain"

Childres's Literature "the entire novel attemps to teache about life, growth, and maruity"

Winner of 2004 Coreeta Scott King Author Award.

Winner of 2004 Michael L. Printz.



Speak- Book Review

Kathey Smith

Bibliography-
Anderson, Laurie Hasle, Speak, Mandy Siegfried, Listen Library: New York 2006, ISBN-0374371520

Plot Summary- Attending a party high schooler Melinda is raped by a popular senior and calls the police.  She becomes an outcast at school for runing the party.  Melinda is so tramatized she can not speak about what happened and the ordeal haunts her over and over.  A few postive people in Melinders life work to crack the shell.  When Melinda can no longer take the trauma she yells out


Analysis- Anderson captured the listners attention in the audio with her interesting and personal plot.  She really captured the feelings of Melinda and the listener can imagine the look on Melinda's face as she expresses her negative views " It was ugly but I'm not going to think about it" as a peer stated she hated melinda.  Anderson also introduce Melinda as she comes to herself and realizes that she is not the cause of what happend to her when she surrender and say" not going to let it kill me".  Anderson captured the high school scene perfectly.   This audio book is very believable.

Excerpt(s)
" This is a gripping account of personal wounding and recovery"  The Bulletin of the Center for Children's books.
" The plot is gripping and the characters are powerfully drawn" Kirkus
" the novels real power lies in the story of Melinda's gradual reclaiming of herself through the help of acompassionate art teacher, her concerned parents, and some caring students, and her ultimate redemption" Children's Literature.

Connections-
Activities- encourage students to write about issue that may have happened to them or someone else and how they reacted allow to share if they choose.
This book is a good resource to talk about rape, or drinking.

Related books- 
A Separate Peace by John Knowles ISBN- 0743253973
Night by Elie Wiesel ISBN- 0374500010

Lunch Lady and the Summer Camp Shakedown

Kathey Smith

Bibliography- Krosoczka , Jarrett. Lunch Lady and the Camp Shakedown, Alfred A. Knopf, New York: 2010. ISBN 9780357860959

Plot Summary-  Three elementary students attend a summer camp in an area that has a reputation of a swamp monster that appears at night.  The lunch lady and her assistant  from the elementary school are working at the camp.  The lunch lady prepares food items to use to attack the monster, the kids help by using squirt guns to squirt food at the monster.  

Analysis-  This graphic novel by Krosoczka  with two-color art is fun, silly, and really lends a hand for the reader to use their imagination even beyond the book.  This book is great for grades 3-5 with a superhero theme that comes from a all too familiar territory the cafeteria. 

Excerpt (s)

"Younger kids with an appreciation for silliness will love it"- Children's Literature

" A delightfully fun escapist read." Kirkus

" A tough, capable herine plenty of silliness and slapstick" Publishers

Connections- 

Other related books-

 Judy Moody and the not Bummer Summer by Megan McDonald ISBN- 9780763653514

 Junie B. First Grader Toothless Wonder by Barbara Park ISBN- 9780355822230

Have students create their own fiction, fantasy, and young adult literature.





Joey Pigza Loses Control

Kathey Smith - Book Review










Bibliography- Gantos, Jack, Joey Pigza Loses Control, Listen Library, 2009, ISBN 31668042690542

Plot Summary- Joey is  young boy with behavior problems who lives with his mother.  She decides he needs to visit his father for about six weeks so the Joey and his mom take a drive to another city where Joey's father lives.  Although Joey has not seen his father  he is determined to gain the likes of his father.  Joey's father posesses little postive parenting skills and thinks it's best to teach Joey how to take control of his life by not encouraging his to use his medicine as needed for his behavior. Joey knows whats best for him however he wants to please his father.  Joey has a hard time by trying to live up to his fathers instruction and his keep his mothers instructions as well.  Evidence of Joey's wanting his fathers approval is presents in the story when he compares his encounter of snipping the end of a girls nose to his father butting someones nose at a bar.  Joey worked hard to connect with his distant father who suffered from the same behavior disorded as Joey but he still missed his mother and felt as it was a Joey for mom and a Joey for dad because of the two different life styles of each parent.

Critical Analysis- Gantos author and reader of this audio book does a wonderful job with voice inflections and keeping the listener engaged.  Gantos lays out each charcters personality well enough that the listener can imagine how they look and sound.  Gantos shows that Joey is an intellegent kid and is well aware of what is going on with him Joey says " I knew I could be wrong most of the time"  Gantos make Joey a very in touch kid inspite of the behavior problems.

Excerpt (s) "Readers will sympathize with Joey and his father" Children's Literature
"This story is more than a message it is a truly memorable read" Booklist
" A tragic tale in many ways, but a triumph too" Kirkus
 Awards-    Newbery Honor Book 2001, Maine Student Book 2002, Parents Choice 2000 , 2003, White ravens 2001.

Connections- This would be a great book for middle school students who has ADD or know someone with ADD, this book could as be used to help students talk about alcohlism, or father son relationships.

One Crazy Summer

Kathey Smith- Book Review

Bibliograpy- Williams-Garcia, Rita, One Crazy Summer, Amistad, New York: 2010 ISBN 978006076885

Plot Summary-  One Crazy Summer tells the story of an eleven year old African American by the name of Delphine who is sent to Oakland CA from Brooklyn she also has two sisters who go alone with her to visit their mother who abandoned them.  In 1968 the girls father sent the girls to visit their mother. Their mother does little to embrace them and sends them to a camp ran by a Radical group the Black Panthers where they learn new prespectives. Delphine shows her mature skills by watching over her sisters and handling her mothers unwelcoming attitude. "Just like I know how to lift my sisters up, I also knew how to needle them just the right" Delphine has perfected her lifestyle of rearing herself and her silblings.

Critical Analysis- The author did a great job at setting the scene in the late 1960's  by using a main focal point of that era that affect the African American culture.  This book was an easy reader with bold titles for each section the presented  the reader with a great clue of what was up coming. 

Excerpt (s)/ Award (s)

"It's a must for library"- Children's Literature

"She's created a small masterpiece of middle-grade novel that will have broad child appeal- CCBC

This depiction of time is well done, and while the girls are caught up in the defficulties of adults, their resilience is celebrated and enegetically told with writting that snaps off the page- Kirkus Reviews

National Book Award 2010

Parent's choice Award 2010

Audie Award 2011

Coretta Scott King Book Award 2011

Connections- Activities- encourage student to interview family members of friends of the family to reveal who remember activities or participated in activiies of a particular era such as the march with Martin Luther King, The Black Panter rallies.

Related Books- Holm, Jennifer L., Turtle in Paradise, ISBN 0375836886

Vanderpool, Clare. Moon Over Manifest ISBN 0385738838



Hattie Big Sky

Kathey Smith- Audio Book Review

Bibliography- Larson, Kirby., Hattie Big Sky, Delacorte Press, New York: 2006, ISBN 9780385735957

Plot Summary-  Imagine being sixteen and moving from one place to another never really having a place to call home.  The young lady in the book Hattie Big Sky was faced with  this challenge.  Hattie Brooks an sixteen old german orphan in 1918 during world war one has gotten her fill of moving from one place to another. Hattie sats out to Montana to work a homestead left to her by her uncle.  Hattie meets people who helps her find herself and understand the true meaning of friendship.

Critical Analysis- This audio book was eight hours and thirty one minutes long, this is a book for an older student.  The author does a good job presenting the feelings of Hattie just listening to the story you can imagine what Hattie is going throgh and feel the relief when she gets help and realizes the home is what you make it.  " Neither here nor there" gives the listner a clue that Hattie wants more but knows it has not been in her past. 

Excerpt (s) / Award (s)
This  fine offering may well inspire readers to find out more about their own family histories- Kirkus Reviews.
" She creates a richly textured novel full of memorable characters-  Booklist
"This is a delightful and empowering book for young women who will enjoy some of the eccentric Montant characters"-  Children's Literature
Cybil Award 2006
John Newbery Medal 2007
Montana Book Award 2006

Connections- Activities- encourage students to trace their family history and write about it.

Related books- Larson, Kirby. The Dear America: The fences Between Us the Diary of Piper Davis. ISBN 0545224187

Laeson, Kirby. The Friendship Doll. ISBN 0385737459

Catherine Called Birdy

Kathey Smith - Book Review

Bibliography- Cushman, Karen, Catherine Called Birdy, Harper Trophy, New York, 1995. ISBN 0788795201

Plot Summary- A thirteen year old girl in the medieval era does not feel very happy about her life.  She understands that it is custumary for young girls to be married off and is not happy about it.  She fights against her fathers plans to marry her off by drooling, dressing out of charcter and making herself unattractive to prospective suitor.  Catherine writies in her diary things she likes and dislikes.  Catherine presents behaviors of a typical teenager.  Catherine shows her strong will to her family by honoring her father and marring but choosing to make the best out of  the sitiuation and staying real to herself and her idenity.

Critical Analysis- The audio format of this book is good, and able to keep the listener engaged, however at a point I wished I had the book to follow along.  The narrators voice was fitting for this story.  The audio was over six hours long so time should be planned well to enjoy this piece of art.  The author capatured todays teen in several aspects "I loathe my life" said Catherine which is compatible to today's teen statements such as "I can do nothing" or " I hate it here".  even the bad behavior to foil her parents plans for her, as well as shoeing the teens special talant that she wants to explore.   

Excerpts- This book is a peek into the private thoughts of a 13 year old ,somewhat privileged girl, living in the 13th century - Children's Literture

Using diary format, we learn of life, family, joys, and tribulations of a young woman born to title but not wealthy circumstances- Children's Literture

Readers will learn much about the historical time period- KLIATT Review.

Far ahead of her time, she is both believable and lovable  Superb historical fiction - School Library ournal, Starred Review.

Connections- Enrichment activities-

•  Compare and Contrast today's teens to Catherine
•  Discuss diary writting and practice
•  Cause and Effect of Catherines behavoir