Rapunzel’s Revenge by Shannon and Dean Hale. Illustrated by Nathan Hale

1.    BIBLIOGRAHY

Hale, Shannon and Dean. 2008. RAPUNZEL”S REVENGE. Ill. by Nathan Hale. New York, NY: Bloomsbury Publishing. ISBN: 159990070.

2.    SUMMARY

Hale creates a different twist on the famous tale of Rapunzel.  After discovering the woman that has been raising her behind a wall is not her mother and is wicked, Rapunzel plots her escape. Captured, she is placed in a tower where her hair grows considerably long…long enough to escape her prison and end up meeting Jack (of the beanstalk fable).  There adventures take them through the wild west avoiding outlaws and witch’s henchmen in an attempt to dethrone her wicked adopted mother and free her own mother and the rest of the people throughout the land.

3.    CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Illustrator, Nathan Hale, who is no relation to the authors, matches his art to the story wonderfully. The setting is prominently depicted with the comic style drawings of the old west and Gothel’s castle. Just by viewing the cover, the reader can tell that this isn’t the traditional tale, as Repunzel is decked out in western wear. Characters are expressive and when the story requires no text, Hales drawings are depicted in a way that allows the reader to keep up with what is going on in the story.

Both authors did a wonderful job collaborating on this unique take on a classic.  Rapunzel is spunky and full of “girl power”.  Giving her a witty male “sidekick” adds to her strong character. Braiding her long hair and using it as rope to lasso evil-doers, adds to the mystique of this heroine. The writing is neatly written and conveys the emotions felt by each character and the role they play in the story.  Hidden suprises can be found in the story as the reader discoveres Jack is the lad from Jack and the Beanstalk.  The authors also included other hints of fairy tales and legends,The format of a graphic novel makes it fun and easy to read. Fast moving, action and scoundrals plus the hint of romance will entice Middle School age students to take a look at this tale.

4.    AWARDS/REVIEWS

ALA Great Graphic Novels for Teens (2009)
Booklist’s Top 10 Graphic Novels for Youth (2009)
Cybils Award (2008)
Eisner Award nominee (2009)
ALA Popular Paperbacks for Young  Adults (2010)

BOOKLIST review- “Rich with humor and excitement, this is an alternate version of a classic that will become a fast favorite of young readers.”  --Tina Coleman

SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL review “…the story is an enticing departure from the original, and the illustrations are magically fun and expressive. Knowing that there are more graphic novels to come from this writing team brings readers their own happily-ever-after.”–Cara von Wrangel Kinsey, New York Public Library

5.    CONNECTIONS

Teaching guide- http://www.squeetus.com/stage/Rapunzel_TG.pdf

Paper Dolls- http://spacestationnathan.com/rapunzeldolls.pdf

Reader’s theater script- http://www.squeetus.com/stage/rap_script-rt.html

Read- A-Likes

Spider-Girl by Tom DeFalco and Ron Frenz

Castle Waiting by Linda Medley

No Girls Allowed by Susan Hughes.

Children can write and develop their own fractured style fairy tell.

THE BOOK THIEF by Markus Zusak

1.    BIBLIOGRAPHY

Hardback Book:
Zusak, Markus. 2006. THE BOOK THIEF. New York, NY.
Knopf Books for Young Readers Publishing.  ISBN 0375831002

Audio:
Zusak, Markus. 2006. THE BOOK THIEF. Read by Allan Corduner. Random House Audio Publishing Group. ISBN 0739398005

2.    SUMMARY

The Book Thief tells the story of Liesal Meminger, a young German girl, growing up in Nazi Germany. Death narrates the story of how Liesal became known as the Book Thief.  Death finds the girl intriguing. He witnesses the first book theft at the burial of Liesal's younger brother, which takes place on the way to Molching. This is the primary setting of the story, where Liesal is taken to a foster family, the Hubermann’s, to stay during the war. Death continues his narration through several more book thefts by Liesal, as well as the story of Max "the Jewish fist fighter", who hides in the basement to avoid being caught by the Nazis. Death, if possible, may have a soft spot for Liesal's friend Rudy, who has an unending obsession with Olympic medalist Jessie Owens.  One of the most enigmatic characters include the reclusive mayor's wife who leaves her window open to allow Liesal to steal from her own personal library. Death see’s it all …love, hate….life, death…happiness and tragedy…and reports it in a way only Death can.

3.    CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Zusak grabs the reader’s attention quickly in this book by having Death tell the story. You want to make Death your friend because of his charming and sometimes witty explanations. Every character in this novel is so well described you feel that you know them and could recognize them if they passed you by.

Symbolism runs rampant in this book beginning with the jacket cover of falling dominoes, which to me represents people. The accordion is used as a symbol of happiness, love and comfort. Death describes the world around him in terms of color, which helps to create a mood or setting for the story. 

Many of the passages read like poetry. For example, Death comments on the aftermath of a bombing: “Five hundred souls, I carried them in my fingers, like suitcases.” He describes Leisel and Rudy kissing: “Leisel kissed her best friend, Rudy Steiner, soft and true on his lips. He tastes dusty and sweet. He tasted like regret in the shadows of trees...”

I read and listened to this piece interchangeably.  The narrator of the unabridged audio edition, Allan Corduner, spoke with such clarity and with enough passion for the story to make you visualize yourself a dweller of Himmel Street.  Corduner has acted in 30 various films as well as performed on Broadway and London's West End.  Corduner, who hails from Sweden, and was raised in London has a smooth English accent, which adds to the validity of the narration. Accordion music opens the audio series, foreshadowing whats to come, and ends it, in remembrance of what was. Corduner keeps a steady, even pace and changes inflection to set moods, and changes voice when speaking as different characters. His voice, that of death, is the only sound you here except for the accordion lead-in and fade-out.  There were a total of 11 compact disks with a running time of 13 hours and 57 minutes. A very lengthy story, but so absorbing as well. The audio ends with the narrator of the Harry Potter books (Jim Dale) describing the importance of reading and listening to books with children and an advertisement for Random House Audio Publishing. The recommended age for listening is 12 to 17. It is my opinion that one would have to have a basic knowledge of Nazi Germany to understand the protagonist’s plight. I think the book would be better suited for 15 and up.

I found myself more engrossed in the listening aspect than in the reading, as I seemed to wander away from the text. The narrator of the audio kept me intrigued and listening every free moment I could find.  Corduner's style of narrative help to make the book one of my all time favorites!

4.    AWARDS/HONORS/REVIEWS

Nominee 2006 - Commonwealth Writers Prize for Best Book (South East Asia & South Pacific)
Winner 2007 - ALA Best Books for Young Adults
Winner 2007 - Michael L. Printz Honor Book
Winner 2007 - Book Sense Book of the Year
Winner 2006 - Horn Book Fanfare
Winner 2006 - Kirkus Reviews Editor Choice Award
Winner 2006 - School Library Journal Best Book of the Year
Winner 2006 - Publishers Weekly Best Children's Book of the Year
Winner 2006 - Booklist Children's Editors' Choice
Winner 2006 - Bulletin Blue Ribbon Book
Winner 2009 - Pacific Northwest Young Readers Choice Master List

SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL review: “Zusak has created a work that deserves the attention of sophisticated teen and adult readers…An extraordinary narrative.” –Francisca Goldsmith, Berkeley Public Library, CA

KIRKUS review: "Elegant, philosophical and moving...Beautiful and important."

HORN BOOK MAGAZINE review: "Exquisitely written and memorably populated, Zusak's poignant tribute to words, survival, and their curiously inevitable entwinement is a tour de force to be not just read but inhabited."

5.    CONNECTIONS

Lesson plan for creating an abstract poem using the book for inspiration.

http://www.writingfix.com/Chapter_Book_Prompts/bookthief3.htm

Read Alikes

Dream Merchant by Isabel Hoving

An Innocent Soldier by Josuf Holub

Hear My Sorrow: The Diary of Angela Denoto, A Shirtwaist Worker, New York City, 1909 by Deborah Hopkinson

Anne Frank: The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank

The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by Joyne Boyne

Book Trailer

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=95s8GlKY40o&feature=player_embedded

Reading Group Discussion Questions

http://www.readinggroupguides.com/guides_B/book_thief1.asp

THE EVOLUTION OF CALPURNIA TATE by Jacqueline Kelly

1.    BIBLIOGRAPHY

Kelly, Jacqueline. 2009. THE EVOLUTION OF CALPURNIA TATE. New York, NY. Henry Holt and Company LLC. ISBN 0805088415

2.    SUMMARY

Calpurnia Virginia Tate, known as Callie Vee, is an 11 year old girl growing up in Texas in 1899, right around the time, telephones, cars and Coca Cola are coming into existence. She is the middle child with three older brothers and three younger brothers. Calpurnia’s mother expects her to grow up into “a lady” and take on responsibilities such as cooking and keeping house. Calpurnia has other plans. Luckily for her, she has an escape. Her family also includes a cantankerous grandfather who dabbles in science and nature. Together they explore and gather data of the world around them. When they both discover a new plant excitement abounds to get the species officially registered. Thanks to her grandfather, a life-long love of science begins.

3.    CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Just from viewing the book jacket art the reader can get a sense of the era the story inside was set. Black silhouetted Calpurnia “Callie” and science images on a yellow background will definitely catch the eye and set the time period up before the reader even opens the book.

Jacqueline Kelly uses Callie Vee to tell the story in first person, who is smart, determined feisty and on the cusp of leaving behind gender stereotypes. Coming of age in the turn of the century is easily conveyed through Kelly’s writing.  Callie's grandfather mentions talking to Alexander Graham Bell and wanting to ride in a newly invented automobile. You can also begin to see the plight of women’s suffrage as Callie is struggling with her own role, either the one her mother is pushing one her or the one her grandfather is encouraging. The reader can’t help but root for Callie and her grandfather’s unconventional ways.

The book breaks easily into two separate parts.  First, the book is easily woven with scientific terminology and theme. Each chapter opens with a quotation from ON THE ORIGIN OF SPECIES by Darwin. It is book Callie cannot check out of the library without permission but happened to bring her and her grandfather close together. The second tie in is the family bond. Callie’s siblings, the events, conversations and antidotes are all told with humor and love. When one of Callie’s little brothers is protecting a turkey from Thanksgiving dinner, your heart just melts at the links Callie and her grandfather go to help the family get through the turmoil of the day. Everyone wishes for family bonds so strong.

This novel is easy to read and would make a great read aloud or reader’s theater selection.

4.    AWARDS/HONORS

2010 Newbery Honor Book.

2010 ALA Notable Children's Book.

THE NEW YORKER review: “The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate” is the most delightful historical novel for tweens in many, many years. …Callie’s struggles to find a place in the world where she’ll be encouraged in the gawky joys of intellectual curiosity are fresh, funny, and poignant today. -  “Book Bench” section

PUBLISHERS WEEKLY, starred review: “Callie’s transformation into an adult and her unexpected bravery make for an exciting and enjoyable read. Kelly’s rich images and setting, believable relationships and a touch of magic take this story far.”

SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL, starred review: “A charming and inventive story of a child struggling to find her identity at the turn of the 20th century… there’s no uncertainty over the achievement of Kelly’s debut novel

5.    CONNECTIONS

From libraryzest.blogspot.com:

Author's website: http://www.jacquelinekelly.com/index.html Macmillan website http://us.macmillan.com/theevolutionofcalpurniatate which has a video clip of a book talk, an excerpt of the first chapter and a downloadable discussion guide.

The GREEN GLASS SEA by Ellen Klages

1.    BIBLIOGRAPHY:

Klages, Ellen. (2006). THE GREEN GLASS SEA. New York, NY. Viking Publishing. ISBN 0670061344

2.    SUMMARY

In November 1943, 11 year old Dewey Kerrigan finds herself on a cross country train trip heading to live with her father in a remote area of New Mexico. Her father, a scientist is busy doing "war work" when he has Dewey join him on “The Hill”, a small, well guarded, off the map government community near Los Alamos. While on the train, Dewey works on her assortment of gadgets and gizmos and meets Dick Feynman, who is heading to the same location, and takes an interest in Dewey's inventions. Once she arrives, Dewey finds herself with plenty of unsupervised time as it seems all the adults are busy working on a secret project known as “the gadget". Secrets are a staple as Dewy has been briefed on what she can and cannot do or say to people outside the compound.

When Dewey's father is called away, she goes to live with another family. The Gordon’s and their daughter. Suze, Dewey's tormentor, are all but thrilled to have “Screwy Dewey” and her odd habits move in. Eventually the two draw closer as tension rises in the adults, the end of the project draws near and the impact of it’s implications become questioned. What brings the whole family even closer is the death of Dewey's dad, while in Washington D.C. working on a special assignment. Time begins healing the wound, and Dewey becomes part of the unconventional family.

3.    CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Although the story told by Klages is fiction, the events, places and events did indeed take place. The attention to historic details really preserves this period in time and opens up many avenues for the reader to explore more if they wish. Klages recreates the 1940's era vividly with the use of tone and language. From the references to World War II all the way down to the mentioning of the cost of a soda, the authenticity of this book rings true.

The writing is neat and draws you into the unconventional time and place. The reader is pulled through the events just as the two girls are, with many small clues opening up, until you eventually realize you are reading about the development and testing of the atomic bomb. The author leaves you begging for a sequel as questions have arose as to Dewey's family situation and the ethical use of such a powerful weapon.

The character development of Dewey makes her character easy to sympathize with. Abandoned by her mother, Dewey lives with her grandmother until she suffers a stroke and is then uprooted and sent to live with her father behind a locked fence. His untimely death makes the readers heart ache for the perils this child endures. Occasionally the story shifts to first person as Dewey deals with some of her most agonizing moments.

Dewey busies herself with inventions and her need to develop and create gives the reader an idea of just how unconventional she is for her time, including not conforming to gender roles of the time.  Surrounded by scientist's, several women, gives you hope that Dewy can find her niche.

The development of the story around the creation and testing of the atomic bomb is revealed cleverly giving the reader a slow build until you realize just exactly what the author is leading toward. I found myself surprised while reading as this is one area of history I was not knowledgeable about. I think all readers will have "light bulb" moments when reading this book.

THE GREEN GLASS SEA is a superb historical fiction novel to spark the interest of anyone, at any age.

4.    AWARDS/HONORS/REVIEWS

Winner, 2007 Scott O'Dell Award for Historical Fiction
Winner, 2007 Judy Lopez Memorial Award for Children's Literature
Winner, 2007 New Mexico State Book Award (YA)
Finalist, 2007 Quill Awards (Young Adult)
Finalist, Northern California Book Awards, 2007 (Children's)
Finalist, Locus Awards, 2007 (Best First Novel)
Book Sense #1 Children's Pick - Winter 2006/2007
One Book, One Nebraska for Kids - 2009
2009 Rebecca Caudill Young Readers Award Master List, (Illinois)
2008 NeNe Award List (Hawaii)
2008 Bluegrass Award Master List (Kentucky)
2007-08 Maine Student Book Award List
2007-08 Isinglass Teen Read List (New Hampshire)
2009 Rhode Island Teen Book Award List
2008-09 South Carolina Junior Book Award List
Starred Review in Publisher's Weekly
Starred Review in The Horn Book
A Horn Book Fanfare selection
A Junior Library Guild selection
A Scholastic Book Club selection

BOOKLIST review: The novel occasionally gets mired down in detail, but the characters are exceptionally well drawn, and the compelling, unusual setting makes a great tie-in for history classes. John Green

SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL review: Many readers will know as little about the true nature of the project as the girls do, so the gradual revelation of facts is especially effective, while those who already know about Los Alamos's historical significance will experience the story in a different, but equally powerful, way. Steven Engelfried, Beaverton City Library, OR

5.    CONNECTIONS

A few teaching activities from Scholastic.

1. Reread the letter on page 190 that Jimmy Kerrigan writes to Dewey from Washington, D.C. Then reread the passage on page 199 in which Dewey explains to Suze what the letter really says. Exchange letters with a classmate, using a code like the one Jimmy Kerrigan used. See if you can break your classmate's code. What information did you try to pass along in secret?

2. Using descriptions from the text, draw a map of the Hill. Include as many places as you can remember from the book. Possible locations to plot on your map might be the Tech PX, the dump, Morganville
      
3. Dewey and Suze like to read comic books. Some of their favorite characters are Wonder Woman, Captain Marvel, and Captain America. Use a blank sheet of paper and colored pencils or crayons to create your own comic book hero or heroine. Give your character a name. What special powers does he or she have?

References to comic books and comic book characters can be found on pages 87, 151, 181, 195, 202, 242, and 257.

Authors website: http://www.ellenklages.com/

I Googled “Green Glass” or “Trinity Glass” to view pieces of the actual glass.  You can even own your own piece, which I felt would be a nice addition to have if you were using this book in the classroom.

ALL THE WAY HOME By Patricia Reilly Giff

1.    BIBLIOGRAPHY

Giff, Patricia Reilly. 2001. ALL THE WAY HOME. New York, NY. Random House. ISBN  0440411823

2.    SUMMARY

Two young characters begin Giff's work of historical fiction set in 1941. One is Mariel, a girl living with the nurse, Loretta, who took care of her when she was stricken with Polio. They make their home in Brooklyn near Ebbets Field, where the Dodgers play baseball. Brick, the other person in this story, lives on an apple orchard in upstate New York. When a fire destroys the apple orchard Brick's parents must find work elsewhere and send him to live with Loretta, a friend of the family, and Mariel. Loretta became acquainted with Brick's family while working in Brick's hometown as a nurse when Mariel was in the hospital. Brick, although excited to see his beloved Dodgers play, he longs to return back to Windy Hill to help his former neighbors, the Claude's, harvest their crop. Mariel encourages him to go and takes the opportunity to catch up to runaway Brick and find out more information from the hospital about her birth mother and what happened to her.

At the Claude's apple orchard both children work, to get the crop in, after notifying Loretta of their whereabouts. Mariel spends time finding out the truth about her mother and her past. When she is satisfied with her discoveries she returns to Brooklyn, Loretta and the much loved Dodgers.

3.    CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Two time Newbery Honor winner, Patricia Reilly Giff does a dynamic job weaving the two main characters lives together to bring this piece of historical fiction to life. The author ties in historical events (Mariel's polio with that of President Roosevelt's, the Dodgers winning the pennant, migrant workers) which gives the reader a sense of being in the post depression time period along with the characters. As I was reading I could picture Mariel in her page-boy haircut, 1940's wardrobe and her noticeable limp. Even though the problems each character encounter get solved a little to easily, this book runs the gamete of emotions. The reader can easily sympathize with Mariel and her desire to learn the truth about her beginnings, when polio ran rampant and to also understand Brick's desire to be in the orchard helping get the harvest in.  A much needed source of income after coming out of the great depression.  It was evident in the writing, that these children had lived through some dark times in American history and persevered.

The writing is simple enough to keep the reader interested and enough eluding to facts without sounding like a textbook. Minimal on historic content, readers are introduced to bits and can research more for facts if they wish. Mariel's polio is the main focus, while others may want to know about the Dodgers, Roosevelt or the time of the great depression. The description used by Giff to paint a picture for the reader of the Back To School party hosted by Mariel's teacher, really set the tone for the era. How girls dressed, behaved and the teachers description really made you feel like you were right their with Mariel in 1941, hiding behind a table to try and stay invisible in your pressed and starched party dress and neatly groomed hair with a bow. Polio may have kept her from running and playing with the rest of the children, but what she lacked in physical strength, her caring ways and inquisitive mind made up for. A great, quick read for the World War II area genre.





4.    AWARDS/REVIEWS

WINNER 2002 - Maine Student Book Award
WINNER 2003 - Kentucky Bluegrass Award

SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL review: Giff's writing is filled with wonderful details that appeal to all of the senses. Readers experience the treacherous fire just as realistically as they cheer when Mariel catches a fly ball. A compelling story of two unforgettable youngsters, their strength, and their friendship.
Barbara Auerbach, New York City Public Schools.

BOOKLIST review: Giff delivers a memorable picture of 1940s America, painted with colorful, telling details; believable dialogue; and crisp, flowing language. In her tightly woven, inspirational story, every character counts…. Ellen Mandel

5.    CONNECTIONS

The publisher includes an excellent guide for teachers as well as read alikes and other websites of interest.

http://www.randomhouse.com/teachers/catalog/display.pperl?isbn=9780440411826&view=tg

Students could spend time researching polio, its affects on the body as well as President Franklin Roosevelt and his life with the disease.

AL CAPONE DOES MY SHIRTS by Gennifer Choldenko

1.    BIBLIOGRAPHY

Choldenko, Gennifer. 2004. AL CAPONE DOES MY SHIRTS. New York, NY: G.P. Putnam's Sons. ISBN 0399238611

2. PLOT SUMMARY

The year is 1935 and Moose, his parents and his sister, Natalie, move to a tiny island in the San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz, that houses many notorious criminals inside the prison. Moose’s father has taken a job, as an electrician, at the prison while his mother spends most of her time caring for Natalie, who suffers from autism. At the time little was known about autism, which lead to others misunderstanding Natalie’s peculiar behavior. When she is rejected from a special school, Moose must give up his baseball games to help take care of her. Piper, the warden’s daughter, is no help to Moose’s woe as she is often scheming, to get moose into trouble, and is often successful.

With the tension rising inside his family, Moose asks the warden to speak to Al Capone, Alcatraz' most famous inmate, about pulling some strings to get his sister into the special school. The warden is no help so he must sneak a letter to Capone. Shortly after, Natalie is invited to attend a new branch of the school for older kids. When clean laundry is returned from the prison facility, Moose finds a note from Capone in his shirt-sleeve.  “Done” it says, underlined and in Capon’s handwriting.

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Choldenko, has made this unusual setting for a book into a wonderful representation of historic fiction. While it is true that families of prison guards and other auxiliary workers lived at the prison, Choldenko has also included notes explaining facts about life on “The Rock” as well as including a note about autism.

What makes this novel riveting is not just the setting, but it’s main character. The narrator, Moose, has a lot to deal with at such a young age. He is uprooted and moved to a prison, as well as becoming a caregiver for his sister Natalie, who suffers from autism.  The book develops the brother-sister relationship and the reader can genuinely feel the love Moose has for Natalie, despite the frustrations she causes, the family dynamic also shines through,  Moose’s hardworking father and determined mother are wholesome and dynamic.

Including Al Capone, even in such a small way, gives the book an edge. Although, shown in a positive, caring light, Capone could easily become a character one would want to research more about, to become acquainted with his mobster persona.  This book may have worked without including the mention of the notorious outlaw, but with his inclusion, readers interested in the criminal aspect are hooked in this delightful story.

4. REVIEW EXCERPTS/AWARDS

A Newbery Honor Book
An ALA Best Book for Young Adults
An ALA Notable Book
People Magazine Best Kids’ Book
A School Library Journal Best Book of the Year
A Kirkus Editor’s Choice
A San Francisco Chronicle Best Book of the Year
A Publishers Weekly Best Book of the Year
Parents’ Choice Silver Honor Award
A New York Public Library 100 Titles for Reading and Sharing
A Junior Library Guild selection
A Children’s BOMC selection

SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL review:  “The story, told with humor and skill, will fascinate readers with an interest in what it was like for the children of prison guards and other workers to actually grow up on Alcatraz Island.”--Miranda Doyle, San Francisco Public Library

BOOKLIST review: “With its unique setting and well-developed characters, this warm, engaging coming-of-age story has plenty of appeal, and Choldenko offers some fascinating historical background on Alcatraz Island in an afterword.” Ed Sullivan

KIRKUS review: “Choldenko's pacing is exquisite. . . . [A] great read.”

5. CONNECTIONS

Life continues on “The Rock” with a second book by Choldenko,  AL CAPONE SHINES MY SHOES.

Recommended Reads

THE FIRE EATERS by David Almond
IF A TREE FALLS AT LUNCH PERIOD by Gennifer Choldenko
BUCKING THE SARGE by Christopher Paul Curtis
TALL TALES by Karen Day
PICTURES OF HOLLIS WOODS by Patricia Reilly Giff
WORLDS APART by Lindsay Lee Johnson
RULES by Cynthia Lloyd
NOBODY’S PERFECT by Marlee Matlin
LIZZIE BRIGHT AND THE BUCKMINSTER BOY BY Gary Schmidt
SO B. IT by Sarah Weeks

A look more into the life of Al Capone.

http://www.chicagohs.org/history/capone.html

Author website related to the book.

http://www.alcaponedoesmyshirts.com/alcatraz/about.html

Information can be found at the below link concerning autism,

http://www.autismspeaks.org/

WE ARE THE SHIP written and illustrated by Kadir Nelson

1.    BIBLIOGRAPHY

Nelson, Kadir. 2008. WE ARE THE SHIP. Ill. by Kadir Nelson.New York, NY. Jump At The Sun/Hyperion Books For Children. ISBN: 9780786808238

2.    PLOT SUMMARY

Nelson tells the story of the Negro Baseball League in his award winning book titled by a quote from the founder of the League, Rube Foster, “We are the ship: all else the sea.” No quote holds truer than this one when reading the story about talented athletes and the owners of the teams.

From the beginnings of the League in the 1920’s this historical fiction book takes the reader from its early roots based in discrimination as blacks were not allowed to play on white baseball teams.  Through determination a league was formed. Even though they were underpaid, had to deal with segregation and racism and play in poor conditions as their white counterparts it is obvious that they played for the love of the game. The league came to an end in the late 40’s when Jackie Robinson, breaking the color barrier, began playing in the majors. The need for separate leagues came to an end.


3.    CRITICAL ANALYSIS

The way Nelson’s tells this story off America’s past history gives the reader the feeling that they are there, in the time and place. Sitting on bleachers listening to the sounds of the crowd cheering and seeing the players play ball. The back of the book contains a wealth of information for those interested in “just the facts”.  Names of the Negro League players who made it into the majors and into the National Baseball Hall of Fame are included along with an index, bibliography and Nelson’s source notes are a wealth of information for anyone wanting to know more about the Negro League.

Told in first person, conversational tone of “any player,” gives the ability to convey the humor, the game and the era the league existed. The book is divided into nine chapters appropriately called innings and contains a gate fold that when opened reveals the players from the First Negro World Series and when closed, depicts a ticket to that game.

I find the real story is told through Nelson’s amazing full page and double page illustrations. His oil paintings bring you right into the time period and the feel for the game. In order to create accurate paintings Nelson served as his own model, daunting uniforms from the time period and photographing himself. Nelson was able to capture, so perfectly, the depiction of life as a baseball player during the run of the league. His paintings used in the book, depict the athleticism of the members. Over sized hands, long bodies and muscle allows the observer to know just how athletic these players were. Without Nelson’s writing and illustrations this part of American history could be lost  and greats of the game forgotten. It is an exciting read that is definitely a homerun find for me!

4.     REVIEWS/AWARDS

Sibert Medal
Coretta Scott King Author Award
Coretta Scott King Illustrator Honor Award

LIBRARY SCHOOL JOURNAL review: “Social studies teachers and baseball fans of all ages will covet this delightful winner of the 2009 Coretta Scott King author award and illustrator Honor award.”—Tricia Melgaard, Centennial Middle School, Broken Arrow, OK

BOOKLIST review: “The stories and artwork are a tribute to the spirit of the Negro Leaguers, who were much more than also-rans and deserve a more prominent place on baseball’s history shelves. For students and fans (and those even older than the suggested grade level), this is the book to accomplish just that.” --Ian Chipman

5.    CONNECTIONS

Link to the book/ author website
http://www.wearetheship.com/

Link to the Negro League Baseball Museum
http://www.nlbm.com/

Other Baseball Titles:

ONE –HANDED CATCH by M.J. Auch
HONUS AND ME by Dan Dutman
ALL THE WAY HOME by Patrica Reilly Giff
SHOELESS JOE by Phil Bildner
HOME RUN by Robert Burleigh
THE LUCKIEST MAN: LOU GEHRIG by David Adler
A SEASON OF COMEBACKS by Kathy Mackel
THE YEAR OF THE BOAR AND JACKIE ROBINSON by Bette Bao Lord

THE GREAT AND ONLY BARNUM: THE TREAMENDOUS, STUPENOUS LIFE OF SHOWMAN P.T. BARNUM by Candace Fleming and Illustrated by Ray Fenwick

1.    BIBLIOGRAPHY

Fleming, Candace. 2009. THE GREAT AND ONLY BARNUM: THE TREMENDOUS, STUPENDOUS LIFE OF SHOWMAN P.T.BARNUM. Ill. By Ray Fenwick. New York, NY. Random House. ISBN 978037594597

2.    SUMMARY

Most of us probably know P.T. Barnum for his famous traveling circus. What readers may not know until reading Fleming's book is that the circus career for Barnum did not begin until he was sixty years old!

This autobiography details Barnum’s rise from his beginnings as a childhood prankster to his rise as an iconic figure in American history.  \A brilliant business man, from a young age, developed one of the earliest style museums with it grand “saloons” exhibiting mummies, art work, animal taxidermy, skeletons and people with unusual conditions like the Swiss Bearded Lady. Barnum was the first in the US to have a public aquarium and a hippopotamus on display as well. After losing his museum twice due to fire Barnum spent time traveling the world with his show of oddities- Tiny Tim and the singing Swedish Nightingale for example.Then, much later in life, developed what is known to most as the three ring circus. As a shrewd businessman, politician, abolitionist and a "hum bugger", Barnum has left a lasting legacy.

3.    CRITICAL ANALYSIS

With its imaginative illustrations, ephemera, photographs and added extras this book was a thrill to read!

The tone of Flemings book takes on a circus like production. It is written with sidebars for more interesting tidbits as well as lots of exclamation points scattered throughout. The design gives it an old time feel.  With just over 100 pages it makes it a quality biography with lots of fun! The author included a bibliography, index, Internet site page and source notes. A nice addition if you are wanting to research further.

Fleming takes on the life story of an American forefather in the sense that P.T Barnum was the first in many of his accomplishments. Although, a man with out fault, the author does not dwell on the unpleasant aspects of his career choices, family and the way he sometimes immorally made his living.  Her tone keeps it right at the age its intended for the young audience and allows the reader to make the decision to research further about Barnum.

4.    REVIEWS/AWARDS

NEW YORK TIMES review: “Lively… an engrossing portrait… honest and fun.”

BOOKLIST review: “The material is inherently juicy, but credit Fleming’s vivacious prose, bountiful period illustrations, and copious source notes for fashioning a full picture of one of the forbearers of modern celebrity.”

KIRKUS Review: "As revealing as it is entertaining."

SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL review: An outstanding choice for all middle level and secondary collections."

ALA Best Books for Children 2010

ALSC Notable Book 2010

BOOKLIST Top Ten Biographies for Youth 2010

KIRKUS REVIEWS Best Young Adult Book 2009

PUBLISHERS WEEKLY  Best Book 2009

YALSA Award for Excellence in Nonfiction for Young Adults 2010  nominee

5.    CONNECTIONS

Authors website includes classroom activities.

http://www.candacefleming.com/index.html

Have students develop a circus poster to help promote biographies, featuring Barnum.

Explain to students what a biography is and how it differs from an Autobiography.

Create a timeline while reading this book with your class

Take a virtual tour of The Barnum museum. Two have burned down in the past and the current museum was struck by a tornado in 2010. A circus is helping to raise funds for the nearly 6 million in damages.

http://www.barnum-museum.org/core.htm

Another great website allows you to visit the original Barnum Museum and assist in solving the mystery of how the museum caught fire…and who the suspects may be! My favorite when furthering my research!


http://www.lostmuseum.cuny.edu/home.html

BONES written and illustrated by Steve Jenkins

1.    BIBLIOGRAPHY

Jenkins, Steve. 2010. BONES. Ill. by Steve Jenkins. New York, NY. Scholastic. Inc. ISBN 9780545046510

2.    SUMMARY

Bones come in all shapes and sizes and no one gives a better illustration of that then Steve Jenkins in his latest book BONES. Jenkins shows the comparison and differences between animal and human bones with many of them depicted to scale.

Beginning with the hand and comparing it to that of a chimp, Jenkins moves through he book with comparisons of feet, femur, ribs, spine and skull from that of a human to various animals. Joints, symmetry and how the adaptations for survival are touched upon but the main focus is the skeletal system.

3.    CRITICAL ANALYSIS:

Words are sparse in this book but support the highly visual aspect of this book. The scale and animal counterpart are clearly labeled. Several gatefold pages are included to interact with the reader and to add additional life size bone comparisons. But, this book is not all-serious business. A grinning skull, a chimp skeleton swinging from the title page and questions to engage the reader will definitely hold the readers interest in wanting to know more. Title pages such as That's a Handful and Head Case add to the humor of the book.

Illustrations are created with a cut-paper collage technique using whites, grays and some muted yellows to depict the bones laid against solid backgrounds. This combination creates a contrasted visual appeal to the eye and gives it a nice, clean look to the content. The book becomes interactive as bones are placed in a pile and it is up to the reader to decide where they go. By opening the gatefold the reader can check their bone placement.  Other interactive elements include leading questions such as, "What Bone Is This?"With the easy to read and the visual attributes of this book, it has the ability to become a timeless reference source.

4.    REVIEWS/AWARDS

SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL review: “With applications that range from anatomy to evolution and mathematics, this book will find a place in every collection.”

BOOKLIST REVIEW: “the clean design of the intricate skeletons set against solid background colors is striking and provides a wonderful visual introduction to what keeps us all upright. Thoughtful back matter probes deeper into bone-related science concepts.”

A Junior Library Guild Selection for Fall 2010

Society of Illustrators Original Art Show

5.  Connections

The University of Texas Anthropology Department has a website depicting animals and their skeletons. Also, located under the resource tab is the ability to print out life size human skeletons to use in classroom projects.

http://www.eskeletons.org/

The virtual Skeleton link allows you to listen to the skeletal system being explained.

http://www.medtropolis.com/VBody.asp

THIS IS JUST TO SAY: POEMS OF APOLOGY AND FORGIVENESS by Joyce Sidman and illustrated by Pamela Zagarenski

1.  BIBLIOGRAPHY

Sidman, Joyce. 2007. THIS IS JUST TO SAY: POEMS OF APOLOGY AND FORGIVNESS. Ill. By Pamela Zagarenski. New York. Houghton Mifflin company. ISBN 0618616802

2.  PLOT SUMMARY

Fictional teacher, Mrs. Mertz assigns her students to write poems of apology after sharing an apologetic poem by William Carlos Williams titled, “This is Just to Say.” Williams explains that he is sorry from eating the plums that were in the icebox but he could not help himself, they were cold, sweet and delicious. From that poem students begin writing their own poems on topics that are whimsical, such as Thomas apologizing to Mrs. Garcia in the office for stealing doughnuts from the teachers lounge, from some that weigh on your heart, like Jewel, questioning why her father left her family and if it was her fault. From there, poems found there way to whom they were intended and responses were written back. Mrs. Garcia knows Thomas steals doughnuts and even though she adores him…she still has to call his mom. Jewel receives a letter back from her father, which couldn’t be printed in full text, so Jewel took parts from the letter to write a response poem. Turns out, it wasn’t her fault at all why her dad left.

Using pantoums, haiku, duet/two part and rhymes this writing project reveals connections…those that happen between siblings, student and teacher, fathers and sons/daughters and best friends.

3.  CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Using collage drawings, paintings and computer graphics, Zagarenski’s illustrations make the poems come to life.  Notebook and gragh paper, bags, newspapers and school supplies are used to give the poems a feeling that they indeed came from a classroom.  White paper reinforcements are used as  doughnuts and the definition for apology can be found typed into a girls shirt.
Whimsical drawings of characters throughout the book add to the school charm of this collection.

The concept of the book is an excellent one, however the organization of the book is not its’ strong point.  The book is divided with Part 1 The collection of apologies appearing first and then part 2 Responses coming later.  This makes the reader have to flip back and forth between to sections to read each poem as a pairing.  Some of the moment get lost while the reader flips around to find the right section and makes sure they have the two paired poems together.

The work by the author, Joyce Sidman, more than makes up for the confusing layout of the book.  Each poem and response written is carefully thought out and worded.  Sidman, takes into consideration each tellers view whether they are a 6th grade student or a fouled mouth older brother, Sidman weaves you through a glimpse of each students thought of how an apology should be worded and a glimpse into who they are.  The response section, often giving a forgiveness statement in verse, can make you laugh or bring tears to our eyes.  Then roller coaster ride of mood swings in this book and the complexity of the characters keep you wanting to read the next pairing and the next.  Like potato chips, one is not enough!

4.  REVIEW EXCERPTS/AWARDS

Claudia Lewis Poetry Award
Cybils Poetry Award
Lee Bennett Hopkins Poetry Award Honor Book
IRA Teachers Choice Book
Texas Bluebonnets Award Nomination
North Carolina Junior Book Nomination
New York Public Library’s “100 Titles for Reading and Sharing”
School Library Journal Best Book of the year
Book Links Lasting Connection Book

SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL review: “Sidman’s ear is keen, caturing many voices.  Her skill as a poet accessible to young people is unmatched… This is an important book for creativity and wisdom.”

KIRKUS review: “Packed with the intensity of everyday pain and sorrow, kids and adults exchange the words that convey grief, delight, love and acceptance of themselves and others.”

BOOKLIST review: “Captivating.”

BOOK PAGE review:  “A standout.”

PUBLISHERS WEEKLY review” “This often humerous and touching anthology… successfully navigate(s) the complicated terrain for those who seek forgiveness.”

5.  CONNECTIONS

The authors website is a valuable resource. Click on the link to her books and then click on This is Just to Say selection.  From there you find amazing tools to use with the book.

http://www.joycesidman.com/

Advice- from the children in the book, on how to write your own apology poem.
Listen- to Joyce Sidman read some of her selections.
Readers Guide- suggestions for activities to accompany the book. Great for classroom or library use.

POLKA DOT BATS AND OCTOPUS SLACKS: A COLLECTION OF STORIES by Calef Brown

1. BIBLIOGRAPHY

Brown, Calef.  2000. POLKA DOT BATS AND OCTOPUS SLACKS. New York. Scholastic. ISBN 0439172403

2.  PLOT SUMMARY

While the title of Calef Brown’s first collection alludes to 14 stories, in truth, you will find 14 funny, cooky nonsense rhyming poems.  Brown pens such witty tales and introduces us to unusual characters such as the Octopus in his bell bottom pants, to a funky dancing snowman and lets not forget Georgie Spider who catches flies but never eats the little guys! With Browns own invented words and sounds along with subject matter his collection easily entertains any age.

3.  CRITICAL ANALYSIS

The illustrations that Brown uses to help tell the poems are modern and quirky. From the cover to the back flap the reader will find bold, folk art style illustrations to add to the delight of the poems themselves. With their odd proportions and extreme use of color Brown creates an art style all his own. From the green page about Clementown and their love for the color green to Ed who adores the color red, Calefs hues make up the stories just as much as the words. Polka Dot Bat turds and the mention of no artificial dyes in the spiders pie lends a sense of modern language use making it feel current to the reader.With the silliness that kids love, Brown has created 14 poems that can make anyone giggle.

4. REVIEWS

BOOKLIST review:  “A wacky, postmodern array of characters. . . . Brown’s illustrations (are) a perfect choice of style for the poetry’s quirky logic. An exuberant debut, equally enjoyable read silently or aloud

PUBLISHERS WEEKLY review:  “The deadpan tone and weird words, worthy of a carnival barker, inject a step-right-up sensibility into the humorous rhymes

5.  CONNECTIONS

Another way to enjoy Browns stories is through music.  The link below has a few selections available to delight the ears.  Make sure to check out Funky Snowman!

http://www.peapods.com/browse.cfm/4,1150.html

Other silly collections by Calef Brown:

Brown, Calef. DUTCH SNEAKERS AND FLEAKEEPERS: 14 MORE STORIES. ISBN 0547237510

Brown, Calef. FLAMINGOS ON THE ROOF: POEMS AND PAINTINGS. ISBN  0618562982

More silly poems can be found at the link below:

http://www.gigglepoetry.com/

Jack Prelutsky, another silly poem author, includes on his website the instructions on how to write a funny poem.

http://www.jackprelutsky.com/flash/pdf_docs/HowToWriteAFunnyPoem.pdf

ONE OF THOSE HIDEOUS BOOKS WHERE THE MOTHER DIES by Sonya Sones

1.  BIBLIOGRAPHY

Sones, Sonya. 2004. ONE OF THOSE HIDEOUS BOOKS WHERE THE MOTHER DIES. New York. Simon and Schuster.  ISBN 0689858205.

2.  PLOT  SUMMARY

Sones book tells the story of Ruby Milikin, a 15 year old who’s mother has recently passed away from cancer. The story describes her flight from Boston to California and her lifestyle adjustment with her estranged father, Whip Logan, who happens to be a mega super star. He also happened to abandon her as a baby, which does not set well with Ruby at all and is determined to hate him no matter what. She is in no way friendly toward him as he tries to relate and get to know her. Other than attending school, Ruby spends most of her time e-mailing her dead mother, her best friend and the boyfriend she left behind. A friendship develops with her father’s personal assistant Max and provides Ruby some comfort. Things in Ruby’s already shook up life becomes even more troublesome as she discovers her best friend and boyfriend have developed a relationship in her absence. It takes an earthquake, literally, to bring Ruby to open up to her dad and the truth of their separation.

3.  CRITICAL ANNALYSIS

In one or two page poetic, free verse poem style entries, Sonya Sones took the reader through the ups and downs of 15 year old Ruby’s adjustment to moving across country to live with her movie star dad.  The title may allude to some drama, which sucks the reader in, but the photo on the cover, a somewhat smiling girl, gives the hint the book may not be all serious business.  Once inside, devouring the short  “chapters” you become engrossed to the emotionally verses of Ruby, her dead mother, famous father and her friendships that have gone awry. The reader will find Ruby’s depth of character  and personality can be found through her sarcasm and humorous quips, as well as her point blank honesty and discoveries. The fact that the language is minimal was an effective way to develop the story but not to overpower the main idea with filler words. The hatred for her father becomes redundant but the ending leaves the reader with a happy ending…of sorts.

4.  REVIEWS and AWARDS

ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY review:  “Winning.”
BOOKLIST Review: “Fast, Funny, Touching.
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY REVIEW; “Honest…destined to captivate.”
KIRKUS review; “ Romantic and Sexy.”
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL review:  “This is not just another one of those gimmicky novels written in poetry. It's solid and well written, and Sones has a lot to say about the importance of carefully assessing people and situations and about opening the door to one's own happiness. Despite several predictable particulars of plot, Ruby's story is gripping, enjoyable, and memorable.–Susan Scheps, Shaker Heights Public Library, OH
YALSA Best Books for Young Adults, 2005
YALSA Quick Picks for Reluctant Young Adult Readers, 2005

5.  CONNECTIONS

Below information is from http://teenreads.com and authors’ website.

Discussion questions for a reading group:

What influence does Ruby's relationship with Max have on her relationship with her father?
What do you think are the reasons why Ruby continues to email her dead mother?
How does the difference in weather between the East coast and the West coast impact Ruby's adjustment to her new life?
Why do you think Ruby is able to forgive Liz's betrayal with Ray? Do you think she will ever be able to forgive Ray for betraying her?
What are some of the things Ruby finds she has in common with her father? What events help change her perspective of Whip?
Ruby claims to have a strong "gaydar," and she senses that Max is gay. Why do you think she never suspected Whip was gay?
What are some reasons the death of Devon, a boy she never met, might have affected Ruby so deeply?
How do Ruby's feelings toward her mother change, as reflected in her letters? Has she come to terms with her mother's death?
Do you think Ruby's dream warning from her mother will change her spiritual views about life and death?
Where do you see Ruby in a few years? Do you think she will return to the East Coast for college, or stay in California?

Related Websites:

Author's Website - http://www.sonyasones.com/

Read-a-Likes:

Jinx by Margaret Wild, 2002 (2004 RITBA Nominee)
Keesha's House by Helen Frost, 2003
Make Lemonade by Virginia Euwer Wolff, 1993
Pepperland by Mark Delaney, 2004
Running Back to Ludie by Angela Johnson, 2001
The Simple Gift by Steven Herrick, 2004
True Believer by Virginia Euwer Wolff, 2001(sequel to Make Lemonade) (2002 RITBA Nominee)
Weetzie Bat by Francesca Lia Block, 1989
You Remind Me of You: A Poetry Memoir by Eireann Corrigan, 2002
Other Books by the Author:
Stop Pretending: What Happened When My Big Sister Went Crazy, 1999 (2002 RITBA Nominee)
What My Mother Doesn't Know, 2001 (2004 RITBA Nominee)

HOW CHIPMUNK GOT HIS STRIPES by Joseph Bruchac and James Bruchac

1.    BIBLIOGRAPHY

Bruchac, Joseph and James . 2001. HOW CHIPMUNK GOT HIS STRIPES.  Ill. By Jose Aruego and Ariane Dewey. New York, NY: Puffin Books. ISBN 0142500216

2.    PLOT  SUMMARY

World renowned father and son duo retells a pour quoi Native American folktale which focuses on the moral issues of bragging and teasing. Bear likes to brag that he can do anything. Brown Squirrel doesn’t believe him and challenges Bear to keep the sun from rising. The two wait, along with forest friends,  all night and see if the sun will rise. Of course, the sun does indeed rise and Brown Squirrel is so happy to prove Bear wrong that he teases Bear. Angry Bear, not liking the taunting, puts his clawed paw on Brown Squirrel to hold him down. When Brown Squirrel begs to be allowed to breath, Bear drags his claws down Brown Squirrels back. The claw mark becomes a permanent reminder of his bad behavior, therefore, Brown Squirrel becomes known as Chipmunk.

3.    CRITICAL ANALYSIS

A traditional Native American folktale is charmingly retold by a father and son duo, Joseph and James Bruchac. A moralistic story that teaches that bragging and teasing are not desirable characteristics. The story is written so that one understands the feelings of both Bear and Brown Squirrel and gain an easy understanding of how each feels when being threatened. The writing, simple and direct, gets the point across and the moral reperucussions of not following societal norms.

I was expecting more Native American style depictions with this tale, but was surprised by a more cartoon like illustration. The large vibrant watercolor illustrations fit the story very well.  Expressions and feelings are easily recognizable which adds to the overall story. Oversized, to dominate the pages, they draw in the readers attention.

4.    REVIEWS

SCHOOL LIBRARY review: In their introductory authors' notes, the Bruchacs indicate that the story is an amalgam of tales they have heard from Cherokee, Abenaki, and Mohawk sources, and has further been fleshed out through their own telling over the years. The result is polished, cohesive, and energetic. A priority purchase for most collections.

PUBLISHERS WEEKLY review: The dialogue is effective and invites audience participation--especially the repeated phrases with sound effects, as when the quarrelsome pair sit side by side all night chanting: "The sun will not come up, hummph!" and "The sun is going to rise, oooh!"

5.    CONNECTIONS

Author websites with additional informationon Native American Folktales and storytellers.
http://www.jamesbruchac.com/pages/bio/adult-oriented-biography.php
http://www.josephbruchac.com/

In the classroom, students could develop their own folktales of how things came to be.  Examples could include; Why the Giraffe has a long     neck, Why dogs turn around and around before laying down, How kissing was started, etc.

Have Students read and act out folktales from various Native American cultures.

THE THREE LITTLE PIGS: AN ARCHITECTUAL TALE by Steven Guarnaccia

1.    BIBLIOGRAPHY

Guarnaccia, Steven. 2010. THE THREE LITTLE PIGS: AN ARCHITECTUAL TALE. New York, NY. Abrams. ISBN: 9780810989412

2.    PLOT  SUMMARY

Although the book begins with the “Once upon a time…” predictable beginning, Guarnaccia’s version puts an unusual spin on the pigs, their homes and the big bad wolf. The three pigs in this case are illustrated to represent three famous architects- Frank Gehry, Phillip Johnson and Frank Lloyd Wright.  When the wolf shows up, huffing and puffing, Pig Gehry's house of scraps falls to shambles.  Pig Johnson's home of glass succumbs to a similar fate, as the aforementioned. Only Pig Wright's house, made of stone and concrete remains standing after the wolfs series of attempts to blow it down. This upsets the wolf and leads him to try a series of attempts to trap the pigs. When he is unsuccessful he chooses an alternative entrance- the chimney. The pigs just happen to have a fire going in which the wolf burns his tail and flees the scene.

3.    CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Steven Guarnaccia’s fresh retelling of this classic tale will delight parents for its modernized illustrations and children will find the humanized pigs something to giggle about! Guarnaccia’s cartoon-like illustrations are engaging and hold your interest.

Each of the three little pigs are protagonists for twentieth century architects and are illustrated in such a way that they are recognizable to anyone with an architectural background. Wright is depicted with long hair and hat just as the architect himself would wear. Genry is illustrated as balding and wearing tennis shoes and Johnson is easy to spot due to his rather large black glasses. The illustrator even took liberties with the end pages by providing drawn images of famous architectural buildings, furniture styles and home decor. Each labeled with the designer and dates.

The wolf, himself an original to the classic story, has become modernized with black sunglasses, a leather jacket, jeans and black boots. He moves from house to house by his motorcycle

Within the pages you find each pig architect has blueprinted their house before the actual construction of the home. Guarnaccia’s brought the planning element of each home thoughtfully into this classic tale by having those blueprints drawn onto the pages. The original tale's moral could be inference in the importance of good planning. and this message is carried through with the illustrated blueprints.

4.    REVIEW EXCERPTS

BOOKLIST  review:  Guarnaccia combines a delightfully fractured tale with an ultastylish, kid -friendly primer of 2oth century design.            -- Gillian Engberg

PUBLISHERS WEEKLY review:  He ( Guarnaccia) plays to design fans, decorating the pigs’ homes with objects by the likes of Noguchi and Starck, and his endpapers provide a visual index to the allusions. Without a background in “starchitects,” though, children will need a design history lesson to appreciate this retelling.

5.    CONNECTIONS

This would be a great book to introduce architectural aspects and designers to a group of students who are taking an interior design or housing class.

Collect Guarnaccia’s modern illustrations for display.

Collect other titles or retold/modernized tales for a lesson in comparing and contrasting.

THERE WAS AN OLD LADY WHO SWALLOWED A FLY by Simms Taback

1.    BIBLIOGRAPHY
Tabeck, Simms. 1997. THERE WAS AN OLD LADY WHO SWALLOWED A FLY. New York: Penguin Group.  ISBN: 067068938.

2.    PLOT SUMMARY
This version of THERE WAS AN OLD LADY WHO SWALLOWED A FLY, retold and illustrated by Simms Tabeck, is a favorite American folk poem/song. First heard sometime in the 1940’s, the true author remains unknown. This humorous story describes a lady that swallowed a fly, spider, bird, cat, dog, cow and a horse. As the little old lady devours one of the animals, the die cut hole in her stomach takes on the shape of what she has currently swallowed and expands her waist line. The tale ends with the lady’s death. The sing song iteration really makes it fun for children to get involved with the story.

3.    CRITICAL ANALYSIS
From the jacket of the book to the ending moral, this amazing illustrated book retells a most current folktale for children that they will simply fall in love with. Tabeck took the original folktale one step further. Each page is bursting with details and funny quips, from the different types of flies to directions on how to make spider soup, bringing the readers interest to a different level. The animals that have yet to become snacks make side comments that add a delightful spin to the tale. The little old lady, with her bloodshot eyes and silly smile, looks just zany enough to swallow the animal characters.

The book’s design, with the die cut holes, allows the readers to peer inside her rather growing stomach.  With the collage medium Tabeck uses to illustrate, torn colored paper on a black background, there is consistency throughout the retelling. The text appears to be handwritten on bright colored strips and placed haphazardly on to the page, giving the appearance of a ransom note. This style gives the book a feeling of fun, liveliness and makes it personal to the reader.

4.     REVIEW EXCERPTS
1998 Caldecott Honor Book

SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL review: “All in all, this illustrator provides an eye-catching, energy filled interpretation that could easily become a classic in itself.”  -Martha Topol, MI

KIRKUS review: “it is good clean fun to watch the old lady bulge and bloat, and the sheer corniness of the verse continues to be deeply gratifying.”

5.    CONNECTIONS
Gather other works by Simms Tabeck to evaluate his art techniques.
Visit Simms Tabecks official website for videos and Tybeck discussing his own works.
http://www.simmstaback.com/Welcome_to_Simms_Taback.html

Recording artist, Cyndi Laupers lyrical version.  A nice alternative to hear it to music then just read out loud.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LSlK5YTI3XY

WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE by Maurice Sendak

1.     BIBLIOGRAPHY

Sendak, Maurice. WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE.  1988. Harper Collins; 25th anniversary edition. ISBN 0060254920

2.     SUMMARY

Sendak's WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE is a story of conflict. Max, the protagonist, is at odds with his mother and with his own anger.  After being sent to bed without supper for behaving wildly, Max imaginatively transforms his room into a far off place.  A place where wild things roam free and he fits in. Max becomes the king of all things wild and unruly and after some wild rumpus begins missing the feeling of love and security.  He journeys home to find dinner waiting for him.

3.    CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Sendak’s story and illustrations are timeless treasures.  Originally published in 1963, the book has traveled through the decades without dating itself.  The story and illustrations fit perfectly together and make the book flow seamlessly.  Using Max’s imagination to deal with his unhappiness of being sent to his room without supper, shows the reader coping skills one may us in dealing with conflict.

The pen and ink drawings are sometimes funny and sometimes serious depending on Max’s mood.  The full page Illustrations of the Wild Things with no text allows the reader to make their own predictions of exactly what type of craziness is going on.  The visual cues in the illustrations take the monsters from something scary, with their large teeth and claws to something more lovable with smiles and the common interest with Max and mischief.

4.    REVIEW EXCERPTS

1964 Caldecott Award Winner

1981 Boston Globe-Horn Book Award Winner

BOOKLIST review: “This simply written but subtle book became a classic not only because it legitimized children’s angry feelings—and their ability to use their imaginations to deal with those feelings—but also because it showed punishment and love coexisting in a parent-child relationship.”     — Stephanie Zvirin

5.    CONNECTIONS

Art:  Glue two googly eyes on a piece of construction paper and allow children to use their imagination and draw their own "Wild Thing” using the eyes as a starting point.

Character Education: Use this book, along with other selections to teach students about honesty, being respectful, dealing with emotions, etc.

Although this link leads you to a preschool website, the songs would be a delight to any elementary age child.

http://www.preschooleducation.com/smonster.shtml

TALKIN’ ABOUT BESSIE: THE STORY OF AVIATOR ELIZABETH COLEMAN by Nikki Grimes. Illustrations by E.B. Lewis

1.    BIBLIOGRAPHY
Grimes, Nikki. 2002. TALKIN' ABOUT BESSIE, THE STORY OF AVIATOR ELIZABETH COLEMAN. Ill. by E. B. Lewis. Scholastic Books. ISBN: 0439573422

2.    PLOT SUMMARY
Elizabeth Coleman is credited for being the first African American female to hold a pilot's license  Her story, from poverty to pilot is told through voices that were part of her life. From her estranged father to her pilot instructor, each play a part in Bessie’s desire to dream big.

3.  CRITICAL ANALYSIS
The saying, you can’t judge a book by its cover, has never been more true than with this book. The cover is beautifully illustrated, but for me it lacked some appeal to make me want to open it up. Once I did, I found a delightful story about Elizabeth Coleman’s life told by people who were attending her memorial service. Each person’s influence in Bessie’s life tells their part, in their own voice and free verse, with each having a page dedicated to their contribution in her life. This story is a wonderful example of overcoming obstacles and never giving up on your dreams. Making the connection that Bessie was part of my own state’s history was the connection I needed to keep reading.

The illustrations by E.B. Lewis depict a small portrait of the person telling their part of the story accompanied by a full-page watercolor illustration to reinforce what is being told. The illustrations fit the story beautifully as subtle contributions that do not over power the story.

4.    REVIEW EXCERPTS
2003 Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award
2003 Coretta Scott King Author Honor Book

“Relating the story of the African-American aviator noted for being the first woman of her race to become a licensed pilot, Grimes's text is accompanied by "painterly illustrations" that "deepen" the story.”
-- Ellen Feldman, New York Times

“Lewis' paintings, subdued in tone and color, reflect the spirit of the verse through telling details and sensitive, impressionistic portrayals. “
-- Carolyn Phelan, Booklist,

“Well conceived, well-executed, [and] handsomely illustrated.”
-- Harriett Fargnoli, School Library Journal

5.    CONNECTIONS
A wonderful book to use during Black History and Women’s History months.

http://www.infoplease.com/spot/womenshistory1.html

http://www.biography.com/blackhistory/

A good starter to use when having students write about hero’s.

The Man Who Walked Between The Towers by Mordicai Gerstein

1.    BIBLIOGRAPHY
Gerstein, Moridcai.2003. THE MAN WHO WALKED BETWEEN THE TOWERS. Square Fish. ISBN 031236878X

2.    PLOT SUMMARY
In 1974, as the World Trade Centers in New York City were being completed, French street performer, Phillippe Petit, came up with the idea to stretch a cable from each tower and walk between them. While still under construction, Petit and some friends snuck into the towers dressed as construction workers and waited until everyone was gone. With friends’ assistance on the opposite tower, they were able to connect the cable from one tower to the other. In the early morning hours of August 7, 1974, Petit spent almost an hour performing on his tightrope a quarter of a mile up from the ground. Once Petit is ready to venture off this tightrope, he is taken into police custody and is sentenced to performing in the park for the children of New York. The book comes to a close with a gut wrenching sentence, “The towers are now gone,” accompanied with a picture of today’s New York skyline without the towers, yet the story ends on a positive note that the memories of Petite’s dangerous feat and the reminder that the twin towers will always be imprinted in our memories.

3.    CRITICAL ANALYSIS
This is a story of two extreme events linked by the same historical pair of buildings, Petits’ walk on a cable between the towers and the events of September 11, 2001. Extreme can also be used to describe the poetic story and illustrations. The artwork is amazing, and this is seen in the way the book is designed. The accompanying foldout pages give readers a visual clue as to the impressive size of the buildings and the extraordinary tightrope walk.

The text is solid and holds the readers interest, yet I find the beauty of the story in the illustrations. Created in oil and ink, the author and illustrator Mordecai Gerstein creates a feeling of the breadth and depth of the tightrope walkers’ venture. Using visual cues, the policeman’s hat falling, the people gathered at the base and the birds flying about, Gerstein was able to pass on the grand scale of this performance. Along with the creation of panoramic views, you feel as if you are walking alongside Petit.

4.    REVIEW EXCERPTS
Caldecott Award Winner
ALA Notable Children's Book
Boston Globe-Horn Book Award Picture Book

"Gorgeous oil-and-ink paintings capture the aerialist's spirited feat and breathtaking perspectives high above Manhattan harbor."
--  School Library Journal

"Gerstein's ink and oil paintings of that "joyful morning" aren't for anyone with a fear of heights; the perspectives are dizzying enough to make the strongest stomach lurch."
-- Elizabeth Ward, Washington Post

"Here's a joyful true story of the World Trade Center from a time of innocence before 9/11."
-- Hazel Rochman, Booklist

5.    CONNECTIONS
This book would be great to add to a collection of performing arts genre.

The book could be used in connection with 9/11 events to give perspective to the buildings and to its history other than the attacks.

The book could be used in a math class.  The book references the width of the cable, the height of the buildings and the length of cable.

For fun, students could place the same width of rope on the ground and practice tightrope walking.

The book could be used in an art class as examples of perspective drawing.

Ethics can be discussed after reading the book.  Petit was breaking the law to complete his daredevil plan. Discuss with students the repercussions of Phillippe’s walks.

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