Young Adult: AMERICAN BORN CHINESE

1. Bibliography: Yang, Gene Luen. 2007. American Born Chinese. New York: First Second. ISBN#: 978-1-59643-152-2.

2. Plot Summary: Three stories of characters that appear to be unrelated, come together in a surprising conclusion. Dissatisfied with his position as kung fu master and king of all monkeys, Monkey King feels he is worthy to rule among the higher gods. However, the gods are unaccepting and in his arrogance, Monkey King finds himself buried under a mountain of rocks for the next five hundred years. Jin Yang's is the story of a Chinese American who moves to a new neighborhood. Jin immediately feels out of place and friendless in a school of white Americans until Wei-Chen arrives. Comfortable in his Chinese heritage, Wei-Chen does not understand Jin's desire to conform to American culture, eventually driving the two friends apart. Finally, Chin-Kee embodies the characteristics of a negative Chinese sterotype. His American cousin Danny suffers the humiliation of his behaviors to a breakage point that results in an unexpected turn of events that binds these three characters' lives.

3. Critical Analysis: Gene Luen Yang is adept at weaving three story threads, seemingly independent of each other, into a storyline that addresses a serious theme through humor and vivid graphic art that will allure young adults. The tales of Monkey King, Jin Yang, and Chin-Kee unfold in small chapters, building to an ultimate climax that reveals the relationship between three characters that come to embrace and accept themselves in their diversity. A deeper look into American Born Chinese addresses the personal and outside pressures characters face because of their cultural and ethnic differences. This is illustrated in the case of the Monkey King's discontent among the monkeys and desire to be accepted among the more powerful deities, in Jin Yang's feelings of unworthiness in winning the affections of a popular Americal girl, and in Danny's embarrassment of his cousin, Chin-Kee. The comic book feel of this novel is key to the light-hearted delivery and understanding of the common theme. Represented as a graphic novel with strong character appeal, American Born Chinese is an unintimidating read for young adults with a message that can be taken to heart.

4. Review Excerpts:

• Booklist: With vibrant colors and visual panache, indie writer-illustrator Yang (Rosary Comic Book) focuses on three characters in tales that touch on facets of Chinese American life. Jin is a boy faced with the casual racism of fellow students and the pressure of his crush on a Caucasian girl; the Monkey King, a character from Chinese folklore, has attained great power but feels he is being held back because of what the gods perceive as his lowly status; and Danny, a popular high-school student, suffers through an annual visit from his cousin Chin-Kee, a walking, talking compendium of exaggerated Chinese stereotypes. Each of the characters is flawed but familiar, and, in a clever postmodern twist, all share a deep, unforeseen connection. Yang helps the humor shine by using his art to exaggerate or contradict the words, creating a synthesis that marks an accomplished graphic storyteller. The stories have a simple, engaging sweep to them, but their weighty subjects--shame, racism, and friendship--receive thoughtful, powerful examination.


• Library Media Connection: In this graphic novel, three humorous and seemingly unrelated stories keep the reader's attention until they come together at the end. The first story concerns a Chinese-American boy trying to fit in. The second is a retelling of the Chinese fable of the monkey king. Those familiar with the anime/manga Saiyuki will immediately recognize the characters of the monk, water sprite, and boar in the Journey to the West. The third story involves a Chinese cousin who visits an American boy each year. The depiction of the cousin is so painfully stereotypical that you feel guilty laughing. In each story, the central character is unsatisfied with who he is and goes to great lengths to be someone else-with humorous results. The reader might be puzzled as to how the three stories are connected until the conclusion. It's a nice combination of a fable and contemporary stories to convey the wonderful lesson of accepting one's culture and identity with pride. A quick read, this title has engaging art, and at times, funny dialogue. There are some mild sexual references. One of my students, an active graphic novel reader, pronounced it, "Really funny with good characters."

5. Connections:

• Develop a cultural awareness unit. Students may share experiences, traditions, and stories about their own cultures. If possible, invite parents and/or grandparents to visit and share cultural stories and experiences with the class.


• Share literature about children from other cultures living in America and discuss their thoughts.

Fantasy - THE FIELD GUIDE, BOOK 1 OF THE SPIDERWICK CHRONICLES

1. Bibliography: DiTerlizzi, Tony and Holly Black. 2003. The Field Guide. New York: Scholastic. ISBN#: 0-439-59740-0.

2. Plot Summary: Jared, Simon, and Mallory Grace move with their mother, amidst a divorce, to the old family estate of Spiderwick where strange things begin to happen. Together the three children uncover a field guide of fantasy creatures thought to exist only in the imagination. Finding courage and strength in each other, Book 1 of the Spiderwick Chronicles is just the beginning of the siblings' exciting adventures.

3. Critical Analysis: Authors Tony DiTerlizzi and Holly Black enlist essential literary elements such as strong characterization and an exciting plot in their creation of the Spiderwick Chronicles, Book 1. The book begins with a map of Spiderwick and a letter from the authors about how The Field Guide came into their possession, inviting the reader to "open your eyes" to "an invisible world around us." Set in contemporary times, we are introduced to three children contending with many of the issues facing today's families - parental divorce, sibling rivalries, and feelings of isolation. Children who have found themselves touched by issues such as these will relate to Jared Grace's feelings of anger and resentment, and his need to find confidence and worth in himself.

As the plot develops, a mystery unfolds as does the surprising addition of fantastical creatures like the household boggart, a humorous but pesky creature that "delight[s] in tormenting those they once protected and will cause milk to sour, doors to slam, dogs to go lame, and other malicious mischief." The discovery of the boggart and the secret book he protects, however, is only the beginning of a bigger mystery that may only be revealed in the next Chronicle installments, leaving the reader eager for more. Further enticing are short glimpses at the troll and Hogsqual, creatures to be featured in Book 2. Black and white ink drawings of these creatures, along with other illustrations throughout the book, add to the classic and intriguing appeal of The Field Guide while lending guidance to the readers' understanding.

4. Review Excerpts:

• Bookhive: Jared and Simon (9-year-old twins), their 13-year-old sister Mallory, and their mom move into great-aunt Lucinda’s huge, old house. Even before bedtime on their first day there, the kids don’t think they are alone in the house, because they keep hearing strange noises. Jared is the first to find out what is making them. Adventure, mysteries, secret rooms, strange messages, and a hint of danger— this book has them all!


• Children's Literature: The Field Guide is Book 1 in a new series of books about twins, Jared and Simon Grace, who along with their sister, Mallory, and their mom move into the rundown Spiderwick Estate of their great-aunt Lucinda after their father leaves them. Upon seeing the shabby old Victorian, Mom says it is just like she remembers it. "Only crappier," adds Mallory. That night, strange things happen which lead Jared, Simon, and Mallory to believe they are being tormented by fairies and brownies. The children find a secret room, an odd book (which turns out to be a field guide to fairies), and eventually a little house brownie named Thimbletack who is about the size of a pencil and talks in rhyme. Readers who like the Unfortunate Events series will probably enjoy this series--"The Spiderwick Chronicles." Detailed illustrations help bring the strange world of Spiderwick alive.

5. Connections:

• For younger readers, develop a map activity using the Spiderwick Estate map found at the story's beginning. Using a teacher-created mapquest, students can use cardinal and intermediate directions to locate places on the map.


• Gather available books from this series for students to check out for independent reading.


• Have students create their own fantasy creature that may be found in The Field Guide. Use this in a creative writing activity to introduce and describe characteristics of their creature.

Realistic Fiction - HOOT

1. Bibliography: Hiaasen, Carl. 2002. Hoot. New York: Alfred A. Knopf. ISBN #: 0-375-82916-4.

2. Plot Summary: Being the new kid in town is never easy and Roy Eberhardt knows this from experience. Coconut Cove, Florida is the tenth town Roy has lived in; Trace Middle is his sixth school. He has become accustomed to sitting alone at lunch and dealing with the bullies on the bus. The routine seems to be the same in Coconut Cove until he becomes involved in the scandalous mystery surrounding a construction site for Mother Paula's All-American Pancake House. With the help of a tough soccer player and her eccentric stepbrother, Roy sets out to save the burrowing owls whose lives and homes are in danger.

3. Critical Analysis: A well-measured blend of quirky characters, intrigue, and conspiracy combine to make Hoot an irresistible read. Carl Hiassen creates a trio of unlikely outcasts, yet relatable heroes in Roy, Beatrice, and Mullett Fingers. The author's use of subtle humor in characters such as the school bully, Dana Matherson; the seemingly incompetent Officer Delinko; and the rutherless developer, Chuck Muckle are just as essential in the construction of a dynamic, yet realistic storyline. The mystery unfolds as Roy uncovers an illegal construction site atop a nest of burrowing owls, intertwining this tale with a theme of environmental consciousness. Hiassen manages to deliver a message that even the most unlikely heroes can and should make a difference, and accomplishes this in a manner that is unbelittling to the audience. Told in a third person narrative, Hoot will inspire and empower young readers to take a stand for what they believe in and take responsibility for the world around them.

4. Review Excerpts:

• Booklist: It seems unlikely that the master of noir-tinged, surrealistic black humor would write a novel for young readers. And, yet, there has always been something delightfully juvenile about Hiaasen's imagination; beneath the bent cynicism lurks a distinctly 12-year-old cackle. In this thoroughly engaging tale of how middle-schooler Roy Eberhardt, new kid in Coconut Cove, learns to love South Florida, Hiaasen lets his inner kid run rampant, both the subversive side that loves to see grown-ups make fools of themselves and the righteously indignant side, appalled at the mess being made of our planet. When Roy teams up with some classic children's lit outsiders to save the home of some tiny burrowing owls, the stage is set for a confrontation between right-thinking kids and slow-witted, wrongheaded civic boosters. But Hiaasen never lets the formula get in his way; the story is full of offbeat humor, buffoonish yet charming supporting characters, and genuinely touching scenes of children enjoying the wildness of nature. He deserves a warm welcome into children's publishing.


• The ALAN Review: Roy Eberhardt's most recent move has taken him from the mountains of Montana to the flatlands of Florida. "Disney World is an armpit," he states unhappily, "compared to Montana." On the first day of school, he meets Dana Matherson... rather he meets Dana's fist during a bus ride brawl. While pressed against the school bus window, Roy spots a running boy. This boy is carrying no backpack, and oddly enough, is wearing no shoes! Desperate to find some action in Florida, Roy trails the barefoot runner. As a friendship with the mysterious boy develops, Roy becomes involved in an attempt to save a colony of burrowing owls from the construction of the new "Mother Paula's All-American Pancake House." In his telling of Roy's story, popular author Carl Hiassen creates a character who is not only believable, but extremely likeable. The story is told in a way that gives the reader insight into Roy's thoughts, actions, and rationale. Hiassen captures our interest as he manages to show how young Roy can be obedient, caring, and unconventional -- all at the same time.

5. Connections:

• Brainstorm local conservation concerns and discuss ways in which the students may get involved.


• Learn more about the burrowing owl and discuss the impact of a growing world on these and other animals.


• Create environmentally conscious signs and posters to hang in the school and local businesses.

Historical Fiction: ELIJAH OF BUXTON

1. Bibliography: Curtis, Christopher Paul. 2007. Elijah of Buxton. New York: Scholastic Press. ISBN #: 0-439-02344-0.

2. Plot Summary: Elijah Freeman is an adventurous young boy living in Buxton, Canada, a free settlement developed by runaway slaves. Elijah has already made a name for himself in his community as the first free child of the settlement and for his embarrassing encounter with Frederick Douglass for which he cannot seem to live down. In a grave turn of events, Elijah gets caught up in a dangerous hunt for the self-proclaimed Preacher of Buxton who steals the hard-earned money of Mr. Leroy, intended to buy his family out of slavery. Trailing Preacher to Michigan, Elijah finds himself looking in the face of slavery, changing his outlook on the freedoms he has taken for granted.

3. Critical Analysis: A light-hearted story with historical significance, Elijah of Buxton is sure to become a favorite. Told in first person narrative, eleven year old Elijah Freeman tells this story with a depth of character that will capture the hearts of readers. As the first free child born in Buxton, Elijah is somewhat sheltered from the desolate life his parents left behind. This is apparent in the innocence and humor with which Elijah approaches situations. Often reprimanded by his mother for being too "fra-gile", believing too much of what he hears, leaves Elijah wondering why "I got to respect everything what growned folks say and the next minute she's wanting me not to believe some of the things the same growned folks tell me." Yet Elijah's innocence is shattered and his courage put to the test when he encounters captured slaves and risks his life to follow his heart. Though this meeting is brief, young readers will sense the depth of emotion and obtain a brief glimpse into the grimness of slavery as Elijah does, in an experience that changes his life.

Set in these times, the author portrays the trials, strength, and determination of former and escaped slaves as they work to build their lives in Buxton. Gifted in storytelling, Christopher Paul Curtis relays a story with language and detail that is genuine and worthy of its Newbery Honor. His integration of a humorous character infused with a storyline that addresses the darkness of slavery, successfully creates a novel that young readers will find approachable. Adding to the story's authenticity, is Curtis' use of historical figures like Reverend William King, original founder of Buxton, and Frederick Douglass. The Author's Note following the story closing enhances understanding of the true settlement of Buxton, how it came to be and its existence today.

4. Review Excerpts:

• Booklist: After his mother rebukes him for screaming that hoop snakes have invaded Buxton, gullible 11-year-old Elijah confesses to readers that “there ain’t nothing in the world she wants more than for me to quit being so doggone fra-gile.” Inexperienced and prone to mistakes, yet kind, courageous, and understanding, Elijah has the distinction of being the first child born in the Buxton Settlement, which was founded in Ontario in 1849 as a haven for former slaves. Narrator Elijah tells an episodic story that builds a broad picture of Buxton’s residents before plunging into the dramatic events that take him out of Buxton and, quite possibly, out of his depth. In the author’s note, Curtis relates the difficulty of tackling the subject of slavery realistically through a child’s first-person perspective. Here, readers learn about conditions in slavery at a distance, though the horrors become increasingly apparent. Among the more memorable scenes are those in which Elijah meets escaped slaves—first, those who have made it to Canada and, later, those who have been retaken by slave catchers. Central to the story, these scenes show an emotional range and a subtlety unusual in children’s fiction. Many readers drawn to the book by humor will find themselves at times on the edges of their seats in suspense and, at other moments, moved to tears. A fine, original novel from a gifted storyteller.


• Kirkus: Eleven-year-old Elijah Freeman is known for two things: being the first child born free in Buxton, Canada, and throwing up on the great Frederick Douglass. It's 1859, in Buxton, a settlement for slaves making it to freedom in Canada, a setting so thoroughly evoked, with characters so real, that readers will live the story, not just read it. This is not a zip-ahead-and-see-what-happens-next novel. It's for settling into and savoring the rich, masterful storytelling, for getting to know Elijah, Cooter and the Preacher, for laughing at stories of hoop snakes, toady-frogs and fish-head chunking and crying when Leroy finally gets money to buy back his wife and children, but has the money stolen. Then Elijah journeys to America and risks his life to do what's right. This is Curtis's best novel yet, and no doubt many readers, young and old, will finish and say, "This is one of the best books I have ever read."

5. Connections:

• Extend the book by providing background information on Frederick Douglass. What would he think about the possibility of an African American president in the upcoming elections?
• Use this novel to establish a segway to studies of the Underground Railroad. Discuss the dangers involved in offering shelter to slaves, as well as for those trying to escape. Students will visit the following National Geographic website to gather more insight: http://www.nationalgeographic.com/railroad/.
• Gather literature on the Underground Railroad and Harriet Tubman, a major contributor to the cause, for class perusal and discussion.

Historical Fiction - THE MIDWIFE'S APPRENTICE

1. Bibliography: Cushman, Karen. 1995. The Midwife's Apprentice. New York: Clarion Books. ISBN#: 0-395-69229-6.

2. Plot Summary: Karen Cushman paints the tale of Beetle, a young, homeless and orphaned girl living in the medieval times of England. Taken in by the village's midwife, Jane Sharp, and named for the dung beetle that lives in the dung heap in which she was found, Beetle begins to learn not only the skills of the practice, but also develops pride and confidence in herself. Seeing herself in a new light, Beetle gives herself a proper name, Alyce, and begins to think about her future, the choices at hand, and what life may hold for her. Alyce's successes and failures contribute to a story of triumph and courage to start anew.

3. Critical Analysis: Upon first glance, The Midwife's Apprentice would appear to be the sad story of a homeless, orphan girl who "dreamed of nothing, for she hoped for nothing and expected nothing." Yet as the story progresses so does Beetle, developing into a character of self-worth and courage, even choosing the new name Alyce because it "sounded clean and friendly and smart. You could love someone named Alyce." Guiding Alyce's evolution, albeit unknowingly, is Jane who takes her on as an apprentice. Jane's harsh and unfeeling character, however, are the driving force behind Alyce's transformation, slowly pushing her beyond her boundaries of comfort. Set in 14th century England, author Karen Cushman is adept at establishing an environment typical of the period. Using language and imagery, the reader accompanies Alyce as she gets a sense of life as a member of a village and factual details of midwifery as it was practiced in these times. The knowledge gained by Alyce in her work with Jane are crucial in developing Alyce's confidence in her ability to learn and become a useful and functioning member of society. Though she is not always successful, Alyce finds in herself, the strength and confidence to "try and risk and fail and try again and not give up."

4. Review Excerpts:

• Booklist: Like Cushman's 1994 Newbery Honor Book, Catherine, Called Birdy, this novel is about a strong, young woman in medieval England who finds her own way home. Of course, it's a feminist story for the 1990s, but there's no anachronism. This is a world, like Chaucer's, that's neither sweet nor fair; it's rough, dangerous, primitive, and raucous. Cushman writes with a sharp simplicity and a pulsing beat. From the first page you're caught by the spirit of the homeless, nameless waif, somewhere around 12 years old, "unwashed, unnourished, unloved, and unlovely," trying to keep warm in a dung heap. She gets the village midwife, Jane Sharp, to take her in, befriends a cat, names herself Alyce, and learns something about delivering babies. When she fails, she runs away, but she picks herself up again and returns to work and independence. Only the episode about her caring for a homeless child seems contrived. The characters are drawn with zest and affection but no false reverence. The midwife is tough and greedy ("she did her job with energy and some skill, but without care, compassion, or joy"), her method somewhere between superstition, herbal lore, common sense, and bumbling; yet she's the one who finally helps Alyce to be brave. Kids will like this short, fast-paced narrative about a hero who discovers that she's not ugly or stupid or alone.
• Hornbook: In a sharply realistic novel of medieval England by the author of 'Catherine, Called Birdy' (Clarion), a homeless, hungry orphan girl called Beetle is taken in by the village midwife. As Beetle grows and learns, she begins to gain some hard-won self-esteem, and a satisfying conclusion conveys the hope that the self-reliant girl will find her place in life. The graphic and convincing portrayals afford a fascinating view of a far distant time.

5. Connections:

• Read Catherine, Called Birdy, also by Karen Cushman, and compare the lives and characteristics of these two main characters.
• Research and study the Medieval Times through web and book sources. Discuss what it might be like to live during this historical era.
• Develop and perform a Readers' Theater of an important scene from the book.

Historical Fiction - THE WITCH OF BLACKBIRD POND

1. Bibliography: Speare, Elizabeth George. 1958. The Witch of Blackbird Pond. New York: Dell Publishing. ISBN#: 0-440-90051-4.

2. Plot Summary: Left without a guardian at her grandfather's death, Kit Tyler leaves the familiarity and independence of her Barbados home and sets sail aboard the Dolphin to live with relatives living a Puritan life in Connecticut Colony. Kit struggles to adjust to the rigor of her new life despite feelings of loneliness and rejection that leave her longing for escape. Her only source of solace is The Great Meadow near Blackbird Pond where Kit befriends fellow outcast, Hannah Tupper, an old Quaker woman dubbed a witch by the community. When illness breaks out among some of the children, the colonists are quick to blame Hannah and soon accuse Kit of witchcraft, as well. Faced with these accusations, Kit must rely on the faith of her new family and friends to save her.

3. Critical Analysis: Kit Tyler is a typical teenager - rebellious, longing for acceptance, and all the while desiring her freedom. Yet Kit is not living in present day times, but colonial times in a Puritan community. Forced to sail to America after the death of her grandfather, Kit arrives unexpectedly at the door of an aunt, uncle, and two cousins only to find that life in Connecticut Colony is much different from her life in Barbados. Her independence and strength of will are immediate sources of tension between Kit and her uncle. While these characteristics continue to cause her trouble throughout the story, they are also Kit's savior - giving her the strength to face the obstacles of misguided love, to nurse her cousins out of near-fatal illness, as well as empathy for those who are as ostracized as she. With Kit's help, Hannah Tupper, accused witch of Blackbird Pond; and Prudence Cruff, the daughter of abusive and vindictive parents, are freed of the town's bonds of prejudice, and Kit finally earns the respect of her family. Adding to the character conflicts in the story are the political unrest of colonists desiring to break free of England's rule and mounting suspicions of witchcraft, representing an historical perspective that makes Kit an even more dynamic character. The Witch of Blackbird Pond will spark young readers' interests in these turbulent times when non-conformers may find themselves as Kit - meeting the faces of accusatory neighbors and townspeople. This is accomplished by Speare at an introductory level that is appropriate for young readers. Further enhancing the authenticity of the novel is the author's use of language that is true to the period without distracting from the intended story. Elizabeth George Speare successfully captures the essence of a time period while presenting the story of a character with a message that is transferrable to any era.

4. Review Excerpts:

• Bookhive: Can you imagine growing up on the tropical island of Barbados, living in a beautiful plantation house, and having servants do everything for you? This is the life that sixteen-year-old Kit Tyler has led with her grandfather since her parents died when she was a baby. Then, in 1687, her grandfather dies, leaving Kit all alone in the world, with only an aunt in Connecticut. Join Kit as she sails to Connecticut to meet her aunt and see how she saves lives, faces a witch trial, and makes a life for herself in this strange, new land.
• School Library Journal: The setting is the Colony of Connecticut in 1687 amid the political and religious conflicts of that day. Sixteen-year-old Kit Tyler unexpectedly arrives at her aunt and uncle's doorstep and is unprepared for the new world which awaits her. Having been raised by her grandfather in Barbados, she doesn't understand the conflict between those loyal to the king and those who defend the Connecticut Charter. Unprepared for the religious intolerance and rigidity of the Puritan community, she is constantly astounding her aunt, uncle, and cousins with her dress, behavior, and ideas. She takes comfort in her secret friendship with the widow, Hannah Tupper, who has been expelled from Massachusetts because she is a Quaker and suspected of being a witch. When a deathly sickness strikes the village, first Hannah and then Kit are accused of being witches. Through these conflicts and experiences, Kit comes to know and accept herself. She learns not to make hasty judgments about people, and that there are always two sides to every conflict. There are several minor plots as well, including three romances, which help to bring this time and place to life.

5. Connections:

• Read about victims of the Salem witch trials and discuss. Could such a thing happen today? Why were these people singled out as witches?
• The Witch of Blackbird Pond carries themes of the consequences of prejudice and the courage of standing up for yourself. Discuss with students how these messages are still applicable today.
• Research the historical significance of the setting. What were the conditions of life under the King of England that led colonists to desire the freedom to create their own government.

Nonfiction - HITLER YOUTH

1. Bibliography: Bartoletti, Susan Campbell. 2005. Hitler Youth: Growing Up in Hitler's Shadow. New York: Scholastic. ISBN#: 0-439-35379-3.

2. Plot Summary: Hitler Youth is a chilling account of one aspect of Adolf Hilter's reign often overlooked. Following twelve German teenagers living during this era, Susan Bartoletti delves into the disturbing realities of the youth that followed Hitler and even some who resisted the movement. These are the stories that shape the face of a generation of young Germans through their stories of deception by the Nazi Party, the guilt and betrayal felt among former Hilter youth upon learning of the war's atrocities, and the courage of those who did not yield to the pressures of Hitler's rule.

3. Critical Analysis: A gripping work by Susan Bartoletti, Hitler Youth is worthy of its Newbery and Robert F. Sibert Honors. Elaborately detailed, Bartoletti includes brief introductions and pictures of the twelve featured youth that immediately create a connection between the reader and the subject matter, followed by a foreword that reinforces the focus toward the young people affected by Hitler's reign. In closing, an epilogue revisits each of the twelve youth post war, a timeline traces the formation of the Hitler youth group, and an Author's Note describes the research methods of Bartoletti. Background of the photographs used in the book, Quote Sources, and a bibliography also establish accuracy of the text. Each two page spread reveals historical photographs depicting the devastation and horrors of war along with images of the faces of lost innocence. The book's progression follows the rise and ultimate demise of the Hitler Youth while intergrating personal stories and perspectives of the twelve teens. Their stories are heart-wrenching, beginning with the death of Herbert Norkus, a member of the Hitler Youth whose murder was sensationalized in order to draw more members, and ending with the guilt-stricken former former Hitler Youth, such as Alfons Heck. Inspiring are the accounts anti-Nazi activists Helmuth Hubener, Karl-Heinz Schnibbe, and Rudi Wobbe. Throughout Bartoletti's book is the recurring theme of the power of a nation's youth as demonstrated by teens at both ends of the spectrum - those that gave their lives to Hitler, and those that sacrified their lives in rebellion against his oppression. Finally, Bartoletti ends with a powerful question to the reader and those who wonder if this could ever happen again, "What are you willing to do to prevent such a shadow from falling over you and others?"

4. Review Excerpts:

• Kirkus: Formed in 1926, the Hitler Youth involved seven million boys and girls by 1939 and was instrumental in Hitler's rise to power. Bartoletti makes it clear what appealed to youth: "Excitement, adventure, and new heroes to worship," hope, power, and the "opportunity to rebel against parents, teachers, clergy, and other authority figures." She covers Hitler Youth, the resistance movement among young people and the de-Nazification process after the war in this study of Hitler's horrifying 12 years and the courageous moral stance of those who resisted. Case studies of actual participants root the work in specifics, and clear prose, thorough documentation and an attractive format with well-chosen archival photographs make this nonfiction writing at its best. Essential for WWII collections as well as teaching units on conformity, peer pressure and resistance. Superb.


• Horn Book: With clarity and apt quotation (scrupulously sourced), Bartoletti's tracing of the Hitler Youth movement particularizes the events of Nazi Germany from rise to fall and is given further specificity by her recurring attention throughout to several individual young people. Many period candid and propaganda photographs are well married to the text by strong captions and placement.

5. Connections:

• This book would make an excellent addition to a unit on World War II, including its causes and effects on lives, economics, and government.
• Read excerpts from the book to prompt discussions with students on Hitler's deception of the German youth and why they were targeted.
• Continue the unit by reading books or accounts of other youth during this era, for example, The Diary of Anne Frank.

Nonfiction - THE BOY ON FAIRFIELD STREET

1. Bibliography: Krull, Kathleen. 2004. The Boy on Fairfield Street: How Ted Geisel Grew Up to Become Dr. Seuss. New York: Random House. ISBN #: 0-375-82298-4.

2. Plot Summary: Just who was Dr. Suess? Kathleen Krull examines the answer to this question in The Boy on Fairfield Street. From childhood to young adulthood, Krull traces the events that shaped Ted Geisel into the well-known and beloved children's author known as Dr. Suess.

3. Critical Analysis: Children around the world are familiar with the rhymes and unusual characters of Dr. Suess' books; few, however, know the story behind this author. Kathleen Krull presents a story of the life of Ted Geisel in a narrative fashion that will interest and entertain the reader. Beautiful paintings by Steve Johnson and Lou Fancher add to this story's appeal and a better understanding of the times through vividly detailed illustrations. Each new page of text is ordained with a familiar Dr. Seuss character that readers will delight in trying to match with a known book. Krull is adept at creating a tale of an author with historical significance in children's literature that is relatable to the audience, especially those that may often feel ostracized as Geisel did as a child. Finally, The Boy on Fairfield Street closes with a short examination into the background behind Dr. Suess' best known tales, as well as an extensive list of books by the world renowned author and illustrator, and additional book and website resources for extension.

4. Review Excerpts:

• Horn Book: With additional illustrations by Dr. Seuss. This affectionate survey centers on Geisel's boyhood, plus a bit on his brush with higher education, concluding with the first months of his career. The high points are summarized, but the real story here is of a boy who couldn't stop doodling. Krull does a good job of linking such early propensities with what turned up later in Geisel's books. Nostalgic full-page paintings nicely recall illustrations of the period.


• Library Media Connection: Kathleen Krull presents a touching view of the life of Ted Geisel from early childhood visiting the zoo to his young adult years at Dartmouth College, as well as the poignant events that shaped his life. Geisel's unique view of the world while growing up in Springfield, Massachusetts marked him by many members of the community as a dreamer, but his imagination and supportive German-immigrant parents enabled him to create fanciful creatures that reflected positive and negative human behaviors. Although most teachers and peers considered him a mediocre student, he proved to his detractors that he could be a successful author and illustrator, which encouraged children to read. The book is liberally peppered with illustrations of the whimsical characters found in many of his children's books, as well as beautifully soft images portraying Geisel's personal life. At the book's conclusion, an addenda includes a biographical sketch providing additional information for older readers who want more detail about Seuss' life. A list of books by Dr. Seuss is provided, as well as a brief bibliography and six pertinent Web sites featuring this beloved author. This book would be a wonderful addition to a library program celebrating the "Seussentennial" and beyond.

5. Connections:

• Gather books by Dr. Suess, including some of those less well known. Invite studetns to practice and then create a dramatic reading of their favorite.


• Visit some of the book's recommended websites, such as http://www.seussville.com/ or http://www.eseuss.com/. Students can devise questions from these sources that classmates may answer through a student created webquest.


• Have a Dr. Suess Day where studetns can dress up as their favorite Dr. Seuss character.

Nonfiction - ACTUAL SIZE

1. Bibliography: Jenkins, Steve. 2004. Actual Size. Boston: Houghton Mifflin Company. ISBN: 0-618-37594-5.

2. Plot Summary: An informational book for the young reader, Actual Size will delight and awe. Author Steve Jenkins examines the comparative size of eighteen creatures ranging from the dwarf goby, a fish one-third of an inch long, to the African elephant that can stand up to thirteen feet tall and weigh as much as 14,000 pounds.

3. Critical Analysis: Award-winning informational author Steve Jenkins successfully creates an accurate resource for young readers seeking animal facts or simply a fun read. Short, precise text makes this book an excellent choice for the reluctant reader with further information provided about each featured animal at the end of the book. Even more appealing are the colorful collage illustrations of creatures (or parts of creatures, in some instances) at their actual size. A two page spread of a giant squid's eye demonstrates a radius of twelve inches. Readers will certainly be impressed by a fold out page of the head of a salt water crocodile and the body of the Goliath frog that can reach a length of 36 inches. Try not to be startled when you turn the page and find yourself staring into the mouth of four inch long teeth belonging to a great white shark! Children will love the chance to compare their hand size against that of a gorilla, as well. An additional feature is the inch ruler on the inside jacket cover, providing a true scale for comparison. Jenkins' book is a joy to share as a read aloud or as in independent read. The author's style of eye-catching illustrations coupled with brief, informational text make Actual Size an excellent introduction to beginning readers of nonfiction.

4. Review Excerpts:

• Bookhive: Did you ever wonder just how big a gorilla’s hand is or how small the tiniest fish is? Come face to face with some amazing creatures in this creative book that shows us the actual size of certain animals. Whether it is the fold-out page with a 36 inch frog stretched across or a squid eye as big as your head peering out at you, Jenkin’s collage of cut and torn paper gives a wonderful perspective of how big and small certain animals are. Brief, interesting facts and physical dimensions accompany each animal along with more descriptive information at the end of the book. Check out this book and “see how you measure up” to these wild animals.


• Children's Literature: In his trademark paper collage, Jenkins has explained the concept of size in the animal kingdom to children who will pore over these extraordinary illustrations. From tarantulas to frogs, each page is intriguing in what it reveals. In addition to the accurate size and weight of the animal, the illustration brings it alive before your eyes. Pull-out pages of the saltwater crocodile and Goliath frog are particularly amazing in their scope. As usual, Jenkins includes more detailed information on each of the represented animals in the backmatter. For those little ones hungry for nonfiction, this is a particularly engaging book.

5. Connections:

• Weigh and measure students so that they can compare their sizes with those of the featured creatures, using standard or non-standard units of measurement depending on the age level.


• Create a chart to categorize animals according to their classification. Talk about what characteristics are shared within the categories and what separates them from the others. What other creatures can we add to the chart?


• Have students choose a different animal of their choice to illustrate and collect information. Collect students' work into a class book.

Poetry - OUT OF THE DUST

1. Bibliography: Hesse, Karen. 1997. New York: Scholastic, Inc. ISBN: 0-590-37125-8.

2. Plot Summary: Karen Hesse breaks the mold of young adult literature with Out of the Dust, a Newbery Medal winner written in free verse. This is the tragic, yet inspiring story of fourteen year old Billie Jo, growing up in the dust bowl of Oklahoma during the Great Depression. As the story unfolds, Billie Jo is scarred, both physically and emotionally, by a horrific event that results in the death of her mother and infant brother, and for which she is partly responsible. Furthering her misery is the loss of the use of her hands, taking away her only source of solace - her piano playing. Feeling the blame of the community and even more devastating, her own father, Billie Jo feels the need to break free from this life and the pain that it holds. Only when Billie Jo realizes that forgiveness is essential in moving her family forward, is she able to triumph over the tragedies that have plagued her and begin to heal.

3. Critical Analysis: A moving story of tragedy and triumph, Out of the Dust is depicted through the eyes of Billie Jo in straightforward free verse. Karen Hesse successfully merges a fictitious tale of personal tragedy with the historical misfortunes of the Great Depression era in which the story takes place. Adding to these circumstances are the hardships caused by the antagonistic dust that covers Billie Jo's Oklahoma community and seemingly mirrors the character's feelings of restlessness and constraint which blanket her young life.

The poetic and literary elements of Hesse's writing is key in shaping this poignant novel. Arranged in the format of a journal that shows the progression of a year, the text flows easily and does not suffer from the absence of rhyme. Short, free verse stanzas create an effortless rhythm, eliminating excess text and focusing on the raw emotions of Billie Jo. The author freely makes use of similes that accentuate the events of the story in vivid, and sometimes disturbing ways, as in Billie Jo's description of her mother after the accident-comparing her smell to that of "scorched meat". Other examples include the comparison of a much welcomed rain as "like the tapping of a stranger at the door of a dream"; the dust "like prairie fire, hot and peppery"; and the singing of her father that "starts and stops like a car short of gas, like an engine choked with dust".

Such figurative language is vital in capturing the graphic and emotional account of Billie Jo's suffering as well as her final resolution of forgiveness that is sure to evoke the same feelings in the reader. Time and again in Out of the Dust, Karen Hesse is successful in portraying the heroine in Billie Jo that is depicted in her strength of body and soul, her resolve to forgive, and her decision to prevail over tragedy.

4. Review Excerpts:

• Children's Literature: The always-inventive author of A Time of Angels has done it again. She's found a new approach to telling a compelling historical tale. In this "novel" she renders the story of a young girl struggling to survive the dust bowl through first person narrative poems. Young Billie Jo tells her story in a series of thoughtful and touching poems as she tries to come to terms with the horrific death of her mother, the loss of her talent to play the piano, and the threat of losing her father to long cancer. In this testament to the strength of one girl's will, Hesse takes a poetic turn at telling the story of the Oklahoma dust bowl during the Great Depression.


• Kirkus: Billie Jo tells of her life in Oklahoma during the Dust Bowl: Her mother dies after a gruesome accident caused by her father's leaving a bucket of kerosene near the stove; Billie Jo is partially responsible--fully responsible in the eyes of the community--and sustains injuries that seem to bring to a halt her dreams of playing the piano. Finding a way through her grief is not made easier by her taciturn father, who went on a drinking binge while Billie Joe's mother, not yet dead, begged for water. Told in free-verse poetry of dated entries that span the winter of 1934 to the winter of 1935, this is an unremittingly bleak portrait of one corner of Depression-era life. In Billie Jo, the only character who comes to life, Hesse (The Music of Dolphins, 1996, etc.) presents a hale and determined heroine who confronts unrelenting misery and begins to transcend it. The poem/novel ends with only a trace of hope; there are no pat endings, but a glimpse of beauty wrought from brutal reality.

5. Connections:

• Collect and display other novels by Karen Hesse for student check out.


• Research the impact of the Great Depression, more specifically its effects on children living in this era. Do an economic study of the time.


• Locate the dust bowl area of Oklahoma and discuss its geographical characteristics as described in the story. Are those characteristics still present today and how do its residents cope?

Poetry - DANITRA BROWN LEAVES TOWN

1. Bibliography: Grimes, Nikki. 2002. Danitra Brown Leaves Town. New York: Harper Collins Publishers, Inc. ISBN: 0-688-13155-7.

2. Plot Summary: Danitra Brown Leaves Town is a follow-up edition to Nikki Grimes' book, Meet Danitra Brown. While Danitra is looking forward to a trip to the country with her family, advising "surrender to summer, to raspberry ices and pink lemonade and walks on the beach ", Zuri is angry about the impending separation in which her "supposed-to-be best friend is leaving me, and loving it". Narrated by Zuri, Danitra and Zuri share their summer experiences apart through letters and poems.

3. Critical Analysis: The excitement that summer breeds in children and the pangs of separation are expressed through poetry in Nikki Grimes' story of two friends' summer apart. Aiding in the revelation of emotions are vividly detailed and realistic two page spreads of illustrations by artist, Floyd Cooper. Children will revel in the exhilaration of the season in poems such as Danitra's "First Night" with "clusters of fireflies dancing 'round my head, keeping me from bed for hours" and "Zuri's Fourth of July", "glistening in the light of the late-night fireworks". The kid-friendly language throughout the text allows young readers to relate to their own experiences and emotions through poetry presented in a story-like fashion. While ending rhyme is present in some of the poems with words like way/say, from/com, blurt/hurt in "The Bad Goodbye", it is not always predictable. Other poems such as "Big Plans" are written in free verse, yet consistently the arrangement of poetic lines allows the rhythm of the words to flow freely and easily. Danitra Brown Leaves Town successfully calls to mind the freedoms, adventures, daysdreams, thrills, and enduring friendships that grow in the childhood memories of summer.

4. Review Excerpts:

• Horn Book: In this follow-up to Meet Danitra Brown, Danitra's best friend Zuri again narrates, but this time the poems include letters written by both girls, who are separated for the summer. At home in the city Zuri makes new friends, while in the country Danitra enjoys a family reunion. Cooper's muted illustrations in this picture book capture the personalities of the two young friends.


• Kirkus Reviews: Fans of this author-illustrator team's "Meet Danitra Brown" (1994) will welcome their latest effort about Danitra and her best friend, Zuri Jackson. Told as a series of 13 poems and letters about the joys of summer and the strong bond of true friendship, this will resonate with many young readers who have savored the pleasures of Fourth of July fireworks, picnics and games, block parties, starry summer nights, and family reunions. It also explores honestly the feelings of sadness, self-doubt, and resentment that a child experiences when a cherished friend goes away, even for a short time. Here, Danitra goes off to the country for a family reunion and Zuri remains at home in the city. While Danitra brims with excitement, Zuri worries and quietly seethes that her friend is "leaving me, and loving it." To her surprise, though, Zuri discovers that life without Danitra isn't so bad after all. She makes a new friend and brims herself-with exuberance and renewed self-confidence-when she dances up a storm at a block party and beats the boys at softball. In their back-and-forth letters, the girls describe their new experiences and the fun each is having, but nothing compares to the joy they feel when they reunite at Danitra's homecoming. Grimes's poems read and flow well, and Cooper's paintings simply burst with energy and expressiveness. How nice for Zuri and for young readers that Danitra has returned.

5. Connections:

• After reading the book, have students write a letter to a friend about something that they have done on a family outing or vacation.


• Reread "Big Plans" from the story. Students can write a poem about what summer means to them.


• Read Meet Danitra Brown and discuss what the character is like and how this is illustrated in the two stories.

Poetry - IT'S RAINING PIGS & NOODLES

1. Bibliography: Prelutsky, Jack. 2000. It's Raining Pigs & Noodles. New York: Scholastic, Inc. ISBN 0-439-32929-9.

2. Plot Summary: It's Raining Pigs & Noodles is a collection of short, energetic poems written for the young and the young at heart. Readers will enjoy the diversity of these poems ranging from ridiculous to disgusting to just plain funny.

3. Critical Analysis: With effervescent humor, Jack Prelutsky has compiled another collection of poems sure to appeal to both children and adults. Over 100 poems illustrated with black and white sketch drawings by James Stevenson, provide visual satisfaction while maintaining the ultimate focus on the poetry. Word arrangements of poems like "I'm Caught Up in Infinity" (written in an horizontal figure eight), "Zigzag" and "I Am Winding Through a Maze" (both written to illustrate their titles), stimulate the eyes and mind and make reading these poems fun. The upbeat rhythm and simple rhyming language of words such as machine/clean, flat/cat in "I Build a Fabulous Machine" and relax/tracks, why/by in "It Is Foolish to Relax", make this a great introduction to poetry for young readers or as a read aloud. Children will also find entertaining the imagery fashioned by fictitious creatures and nonsensical words in poems such as "Dear Wumbledeedumble" ("the wings on the side of your head, your feathery chest and your leathery crest"), and will delight in appealingly gross poems like "My Tongue is Tasting Terrible ("all I ate was pickled snake, and chicken beaks on rye") and "Worm Puree" ("Worm puree, pink and gray, you're a heavenly entree."). Time and again, Prelutsky appeals to the senses of the child, as well as to the child in the grown-up. Kids will delight in It's Raining Pigs & Noodles and relish in the laughter it is sure to provoke, enticing the reader into a page-turning, poem-reading frenzy!

4. Review Excerpts:

• Horn Book: Prelutsky plays his way through silly images, nonsense words, and corny punch lines. Some of the 106 poems celebrate childhood mischief; and it wouldn't be Prelutsky without a bit of the gross. As in their previous books, Stevenson deftly follows the goofy tone in small homely pen sketches sprinkled among the verse. Some of the jokes will be best understood by adults, but the book is sure to tickle readers young and old.


• The Lorgnette - Heart of Texas Reviews: Children of all ages enjoy the poetry and word play of Jack Prelutsky. His books are always fun and full of things that childhood memories are made of. This one is no exception and is a must have book.

5. Connections:

• Read other collections of poems by Jack Prelutsky. Discuss what is similar and different in the style, language, and content.


• Use individual poems as prompts for student written poetry. For example, read "Today Was Not My Day at All", then have students add to the poem with other mishaps of the day.


• As a class, create an imaginary creature with a nonsensical name, then have students work with a partner to write a poem describing its features and behaviors. Share with the class.

Traditional Literature - PORCH LIES: TALES OF SLICKSTERS, TRICKSTERS, AND OTHER WILY CHARACTERS

1. Bibliography: McKissack, Patricia C. 2006. Porch Lies: Tales of Slicksters, Tricksters, and Other Wily Characters. New York: Schwartz & Wade Books. ISBN 0-375-83619-5.

2. Plot Summary: This collection of short stories, all told on a front porch, convey the richness of African American culture and history as passed down through oral tales. Each tale stands alone to reveal new characters, circumstances, and perhaps a lesson to be learned.

3. Critical Analysis: The simplicity of the times is revealed in this compilation of tales told from a front porch. The casualness of the front porch setting and informal dialect invite the reader to stop and listen. While characters have already been labeled as "slickster, trickster, [or] other wily characters" by title, each story is told in an unbiased manner leaving the reader with the final judgment, as in the tale "By the Weight of a Feather". In this story Clovis Reed comes to realize, through the help of a dream, that he can be more than others (and even himself) believed he could be.

"Aunt Gran and the Outlaws" is another example of the importance of not rushing to pass judgment. Steeped in her faith in God and the good of others, Aunt Gran prevails against a group of land bandits with the help of outlaws, Frank and Jesse James.

Porch Lies reflects how the African American culture uses stories and tales for a variety of reasons. In some cases they may be told for the underlying messages they portray, while others are told purely for the entertainment value. It is up to the reader to glean the lesson or purpose of these timeless tales.

4. Review Excerpts:

• School Library Journal: Grade 5 Up–These 10 literate stories make for great leisure listening and knowing chuckles. Pete Bruce flatters a baker out of a coconut cream pie and a quart of milk; Mingo may or may not have anything smaller than a 100-dollar bill to pay his bills; Frank and Jesse James, or the Howard boys, help an old woman against the KKK-ish Knights of the White Gardenia; and Cake Norris wakes up dead one day–again. Carrilhos eerie black-and-white illustrations, dramatically off-balance, lit by moonlight, and elongated like nightmares, are well-matched with the stories. The tales are variously narrated by boys and girls, even though the authors preface seems to set readers up for a single, female narrator in the persona of McKissack herself. They contain the essence of truth but are fiction from beginning to end, an amalgam of old stories, characters, jokes, setups, and motifs. As such, they have no provenance. Still, it would have helped readers unfamiliar with African-American history to have an authors note helping separate the truth of these lies that allude to Depression-era African-American and Southern traditions. That aside, theyre great fun to read aloud and the tricksters, sharpies, slicksters, and outlaws wink knowingly at the child narrators, and at us foolish humans.–Susan Hepler, formerly at Burgundy Farm Country Day School, Alexandria, VA Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.


• Booklist*Starred Review*: Gr. 3-5. Like McKissack's award-winning The Dark Thirty (1992), the nine original tales in this uproarious collection draw on African American oral tradition and blend history and legend with sly humor, creepy horror, villainous characters, and wild farce. McKissack based the stories on those she heard as a child while sitting on her grandparents' porch; now she is passing them on to her grandchildren. Without using dialect, her intimate folk idiom celebrates the storytelling among friends, neighbors, and family as much as the stories themselves. "Some folk believe the story; some don't. You decide for yourself." Is the weaselly gravedigger going to steal a corpse's jewelry, or does he know the woman is really still alive? Can bespectacled Aunt Gran outwit the notorious outlaw Jesse James? In black and white, Carrilho's full-page illustrations--part cartoon, part portrait in silhouette--combine realistic characters with scary monsters. History is always in the background (runaway slaves, segregation cruelty, white-robed Klansmen), and in surprising twists and turns that are true to trickster tradition, the weak and exploited beat powerful oppressors with the best lies ever told. Great for sharing, on the porch and in the classroom. Hazel RochmanCopyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved.

5. Connections:

• After reading each story, discuss what, if any, lesson can be derived.


• Read trickster tales from other cultures to compare.


• Read Patricia C. McKissack's Newbery Honor Book, The Dark-Thirty: Southern Tales of the Supernatural.

Traditional Literature - IKTOMI LOSES HIS EYES

1. Bibliography: Goble, Paul. 1999. Iktomi Loses His Eyes. New York: Orchard Books. ISBN 0-531-30200-8.

2. Plot Summary: Guided only by his own arrogance, Iktomi the trickster, finds himself enthralled by a stranger (a trickster himself) able to take his eyes out of his head and then place them back again. Knowing this will impress others, Iktomi insists on learning the trick but fails to heed the stranger's warning that he must not do it more than four times a day. Iktomi finds himself in trouble when his own haughtiness causes him to lose his eyes. Conning an eye each from Mouse and Buffalo, Iktomi is finally able to make it home, despite his waned perception, only to be scolded by his wife.

3. Critical Analysis: Paul Goble, author and illustrator of Iktomi Loses His Eyes, has created a culturally based character through which he attempts to bestow the reader with underlying themes of human character. The reader is offered an explanation of his character at the beginning of the story in "About Iktomi", as well as an indication into the type of character about to be encountered as Iktomi declares, "This is more lies about me by that white guy, Paul Goble . . . So tell your librarians to ban the book." Additionally, "A Note for the Reader" is provided to guide the reader through the changes in type size and color of the text. Iktomi's thoughts, for example, are in small type and not meant to be read aloud; while gray type is meant to elicit comments from the reader. Illustrations, also by Goble, give insight into the culture of the Plains Indians. The great detail and color afforded to Iktomi, in relation to other scenes and characters, displays Iktomi's desire to be noticed above others.

Iktomi, throughout his misadventures, encompasses the negative qualities in humans through his display of vanity and selfishness. Iktomi's underlying purpose in this particular tale, is to show the blurred perception that can be caused by one's own egotism. "Blinded" by his desire to impress his friends, Iktomi does not realize that he is signing a deed for the sale of land in return for learning how to perform a stranger's trick, nor is he concerned with the stranger's warning and the impact his mistake will have on himself or others.

4. Review Excerpts:

• From School Library Journal, Grade 2-5: The infamous Lakota trickster is once again on the losing end of a trick. Iktomi watches as a man commands his eyes to leave his head and then calls them back. The mysterious stranger tells Iktomi the secret of his trick but warns him never to do it more than four times in one day. Naturally, Iktomi must show off his new skill to his friends and does so once too often. When he finds that he can't retrieve his eyes, he stumbles about until he convinces Buffalo and Mouse to each give him one eye. Unfortunately, these replacements don't provide the vision and perspective needed to maneuver in the human world. As in Goble's previous titles about this legendary rascal, this book operates on many levels. It is an amusing trickster tale as well as a symbolic story about limited perception and understanding. Historical elements about Plains Indian life are juxtaposed with contemporary objects and attitudes. Varied typography delineates the story's narration from Iktomi's thoughts and ongoing comments meant to elicit responses from listeners. Different fonts and crisp, colorful artwork create an attractive book. Fans of Goble's unique narrative and visual style won't be disappointed with the latest account of Iktomi's outlandish antics. Heide Piehler, Shorewood Public Library, WI Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.


• From Booklist: Multilayered and virtually multimedia, Goble's latest again presents a sly, very funny trickster tale with gorgeous illustrations. An obviously Bad Guy, with a black hat and a bottle of whiskey, gets the preening Iktomi to sign a land sale deed by teaching him how to throw his eyes from his head--and get them back--telling him that he can do this only four times a day. Iktomi immediately breaks that rule and finds himself eyeless. He tricks an eye each from Mouse and Buffalo, but their different sizes don't work well together. Goble does great things with the picture space: Iktomi, in full Plains regalia, resembles an image on a blanket or an anthropological watercolor. Other figures appear as small totems or as silhouettes. Goble plays with the text, too: Iktomi addresses the audience in small fonts (or handwritten scrawls) scattered across the pictures; the narrator's commentary (separate from the story) is in gray type. Goble lists his detailed sources and offers an introduction, but he also lets Iktomi have his say: "This is more lies about me by that white guy, Paul Goble." Goble enters the spirit of the trickster tale fully, making the book and its telling as tricky as Iktomi (whose name means spider). GraceAnne A. DeCandido --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

5. Connections:

• Read other Iktomi stories such as Iktomi and the Berries, Iktomi and the Boulder, and Iktomi and the Coyote. Discuss the lessons that can be learned from each.


• Students can work with a partner to read one of the Iktomi stories and create a book review including a summary of their story, underlying message, and illustration to compile into a class book.


• Research nonfiction materials on the Plains Indians and then other Native American tribes to compare. Use a map to plot their geographic locations, study the various cultures and traditions of each. This can lead to other extensions related to Native Americans.


• Students can create their own Iktomi story.

Traditional Literature - LITTLE GOLD STAR: A SPANISH AMERICAN CINDERELLA TALE

1. Bibliography: San Souci, Robert D. 2000. Little Gold Star: A Spanish American Cinderella Tale. New York: Morrow Junior Books. ISBN 0-688-14781-x.

2. Plot Summary: Teresa, the daughter of a sheepherder, is miserable when her father marries a jealous widow with two conceited daughters. Teresa's kindness despite her hardships, however, is rewarded with a touch by the Blessed Mary that leaves a gold star on her forehead. In turn, her vain stepsisters are punished with horns and donkey ears. With continued guidance and blessings from the Virgin Mary, Teresa catches the attention of Don Miguel, a wealthy and handsome gentleman. Despite the efforts of Teresa's stepmother and stepsisters to foil the romance, good prevails and Don Miguel and Teresa live happily ever after.

3. Critical Analysis: Set in New Mexico, this Cinderella tale is told with a Southwestern flair. Through the Author's Note, Robert D. San Souci stresses the importance of maintaining the Spanish origin of this classic tale and how he accomplished this task. While rooted in religion and Spanish culture, the similarities are still there - the evil stepmother and ugly stepsisters, the fairy godmother, the kind-hearted main character, and the handsome hero who saves her from a life of misery. The differences, however, lie in the presentation of these characters and the religious and cultural aspects of the storyline. Rather than a fairy godmother, the main character is blessed by the Virgin Mary for tending to Saint Joseph and the baby Jesus. In place of a beautiful ball gown and glass slippers, the Cinderella-like character, Teresa, is given a gold star upon her forehead that guides her savior, Don Miguel, to her.

Setting this tale apart from the well-known Disney version of the Cinderella story, are the notions of cultural tradition, punishment for unkind behaviors, and the selfless act of forgiveness. True to tradition and parental respect, Teresa will only agree to marry Don Miguel if he receives the permission of her stepmother, despite her evilness. Young children may find this Cinderella variation more violent than that to which they are accustomed as the stepmother kills a lamb given to Teresa as a gift by her father. Also deep-rooted is the religious notion of being punished for one's sins. While Teresa is blessed with a gold star for her kindness, her two stepsisters are punished with grotesque horns and donkey ears for their ruthfulness. In the face of their callous behaviors, however, the story ends with a most gallant act - that of Teresa's forgiveness for her adversaries, resulting in the disappearance of the sisters' horns and donkey ears and a kinder stepmother.

4. Review Excerpts:

• Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz, Children's Literature: This lengthy Southwestern folktale has a Cinderella-like heroine named Teresa and, instead of a fairy godmother, the Blessed Mary to help her. A gold star is placed on Teresa's forehead by Mary. At a feast, Teresa meets handsome Miguel, but she flees as in the traditional tale. Despite the efforts of the wicked stepmother and sisters, Miguel finds Teresa and, with Mary's help, a happy ending. Martinez's realistic watercolor drawings tell the visual story in theatrical stage settings on full pages. He includes many details of clothing and architecture while using dramatic lighting to enhance emotion. By accentuating the heroine's clean-cut goodness and the stepmother's deviousness, the artist adds to the pleasure of this variation on the moral story.
• John Peters, Booklist: The author of Cendrillon: A Caribbean Cinderella (1998) and the new Cinderella Skeleton [BKL S 1 00] here gives the ever-popular picture-book tale a Southwestern flavor. While washing the fleece of a lamb her cruel stepmother has killed, Teresa meets the Blessed Mary, who asks her to tend old Joseph and the Holy Infant. When Teresa is finished, Mary returns and rewards her with a touch that places a gold star on her forehead. When her callous, clumsy sisters rush off for similar decorations, they are given not stars but goat horns and donkey ears. In Sergio Martinez's elegant Hispanic settings, Teresa and her beau, Don Miguel, are slender, graceful figures, comically juxtaposed against Teresa's lumpish, elaborately dressed stepmother and stepsisters, who are portrayed with exaggerated expressions of dismay or annoyance. Mary reappears to help Teresa secure her stepmother's permission to marry, and by the unalloyed happy ending, horns and hairy ears have vanished, too. Cinderella fans have to be rapid readers to keep up with the steady stream of new renditions, but this consolidation of old and new published versions mixes laughter and romance in pleasing proportion--and features an unusual (to say the least) fairy godmother. A source note is provided.

5. Connections:

• Read other Cinderella tales representing different cultures and compare and contrast them. What characteristics are consistent throughout each?
• Discuss the story's New Mexico setting. Plot it on a U.S. map and research its history and geography.
• Look for other classic fairy tales that have been retold from a different cultural perspective.

Picture Books - TALKING WITH ARTISTS, VOLUME THREE

1. Bibliography: Cummings, Pat. 1999. Talking With Artists, Volume Three. New York: Clarion Books. ISBN 0-395-89132-9.

2. Plot Summary: Volume Three of Pat Cummings' book series, Talking With Artists, is a compilation of conversations with thirteen illustrators (some of which are authors, as well)of children's books. Each offers personal accounts of their childhood and journey to artistry, as well as advice for aspiring artists.

3. Critical Analysis: In this "kid friendly" book by Pat Cummings, children will get an inside look at how thirteen artists became the people they are today. Each artist presents "My Story" in their own words, then answers questions, such as "Where do you work?" and "What do you use to make your pictures?", providing distinction between each of the interviewees. Readers will also be able glimpse artwork from each artists' childhood.

Pat Cummings does an excellent job of creating a book that aspiring child artists will enjoy. Her interview questions are simple and straight forward, yet also relevant questions a child might ask. The use of the same questions asked for each artist, shows the variety that can be found in each and how this affects their art. Children will find inspiration in the childhood drawings of these artists and the advice and guidance they provide. The end of the book offers "Secret Techniques" from each artist and a bibliography of the favorite books they have illustrated.

4. Review Excerpts:

• Carolyn Phelan, Booklist: "In the third volume of her Talking with Artists series, Cummings features Peter Catalanotto, Raul Colon, Lisa Desimini, Jane Dyer, Kevin Hawkes, G. Brian Karas, Betsy Lewin, Ted Lewin, Keiko Narahashi, Elise Primavera, Anna Rich, Peter Sis, and Paul O. Zelinsky. As in the previous books, each entry includes examples of the artist's works from childhood and adulthood and information gathered from questions about the illustrator's life story, normal day, family, and favorite materials for making art. Pictures of each artist as a child and an adult personalize the profiles. Appended are bibliographies of five books by each illustrator and several pages of tips--"secret techniques" --for budding young artists. Beautifully designed to draw readers, this book will inspire many children to make art and possibly even to choose it as a career some day."
• CCBA: "Following the same format used in the highly engaging first two volumes of this series, Pat Cummings has interviewed 13 illustrators of children's books and asked them each to respond to the same questions. The result is 13 distinctive profiles that will give young readers insight into the artists as individuals, the work each one does, and the field of book illustration. Among the questions the artists answer: Where do you get your ideas? What is a normal day like for you? Where do you work? Do you have any children? Any pets? What do you enjoy drawing the most? Do you ever put people you know in the pictures? What do you use to make your pictures? How did you get to do your first book? Each profile begins with a brief narrative by the artist titled "My Story." Photographs of each artist as a child and as an adult accompany each profile, along with a reproduction of a piece of their artwork from childhood and one of their children's book illustrations. A listing of four or five of each artist's favorite examples of their own work in children's book illustration rounds out this fine collection of profiles that Cummings, herself a children's book illustrator and author, has compiled."
• D. Cannon, Parent Council: "Many children loose their inspiration to be artists as they grow up. This book invites youngsters to converse with illustrators and see how they sustained their passion for art. Learn the secrets that drive people to become artists and see how they stay motivated. Take a look at their personal lives and their pets. See examples of their art ranging from their childhood to their adult works. Each artist is introduced by a brief biography followed by questions and answers. A great book for any aspiring young artist. "

5. Connections:

• Encourage students to read books authored or illustrated by the featured artists and share.
• Have students create a portfolio of favorite drawings of their own.
• Gather copies of the first two volumes of this series. Assign groups to read about and research one artist to present to their class along with samples of their artist's work checked out from the library.
• Practice interviewing another person. Students can create and ask questions relevant to a parent's particular occupation, then share what they have learned with the class or invite parents to visit with the class about their job.
• Have a career day where students can dress up as what they want to be when they grow up.
• Practice letter writing skills by having students write a letter to their favorite book illustrator.

Picture Books - MOSES

1. Bibliography: Weatherford, Carol Boston., Illustrated by Kadir Nelson. 2006. Moses. New York: Hyperiod Books for Children. ISBN 078685175-9.

2. Plot Summary: Born into slavery, Harriet Tubman faces her doubts and fears in this courageous account of her escape to freedom. Guided by her faith, Harriet's journey is not just a physical one, but a spiritual journey as well. Harriet learns to place her fate in God's hands and by following his lead, she returns to South time and again to rescue her family and other seekers of the Promised Land.

3. Critical Analysis: Harriet Tubman, known to slaves as the Moses of her people, takes a spirtual journey in this book authored by Carole Boston Weatherford and illustrated by Kadir Nelson. The storyline, guided by a narrator, accounts Tubman's decision to leave her family in search of freedom, as well as the trials and fears of her journey, through her conversations with God. Throughout the book, the reader is directed to God's words by the scrolling, capitalized print, while Tubman's thoughts are displayed in italicized print. While the differences in text type allows the reader to easily distinguish between the narrator, Harriet, and God's words to Harriet, this distinction may be harder to convey as a read aloud story.

The spritual account of Harriet Tubman's initial escape is both inspirational and heart-wrenching. Nelson's illustrations provide gripping details of the darkness and despair of slavery. Fear and anguish, along with moments of hope and bravery are vividly portrayed in the face of Harriet Tubman throughout the story as she progresses from slave to free woman to guide of the Underground Railroad. Additional information provided in a Foreword and Author's Note enhance the reader's understanding of slavery and the road to freedom.

4. Review Excerpts:

• Marilyn Courtot, Children’s Literature: "The design of the book is quite remarkable. The story that tells of her escape appears in a normal font. The words that she hears from God are all in capital letters in a much larger font. There is a continuous dialogue or conversation with the Almighty. Many of the pictures are dark since her escape and travels took place at night and often her face and body reflect the despair and physical exhaustion that are part of her journey."
• The Horn Book Guide: "Weatherford's poetic telling and Nelson's atmospheric paintings of Tubman's role in the Underground Railroad portray the spiritual life of the African American visionary. From her days as a slave to her life as a free person, three narrative voices (a third-person narrator, Harriet herself, and God's words to Harriet) make clear that it was Tubman's faith that sustained her on the freedom journeys."
• Hazel Rochman, Booklist: "Nelson's stirring, beautiful artwork makes clear the terror and exhaustion Tubman felt during her own escape and also during her brave rescue of others. There's no romanticism: the pictures are dark, dramatic, and deeply colored--whether showing the desperate young fugitive "crouched for days in a potato hole" or the tough middle-aged leader frowning at the band of runaways she's trying to help. The full-page portrait of a contemplative Tubman turning to God to help her guide her people is especially striking."

5. Connections:

• Study other books illustrated by Kadir Nelson and compare the style of pictures.
• Start a class discussion about a time when students may have been scared and talk about what they may have done to help them cope with their fears.
• Gather and read other materials about Harriet Tubman. Students can write a short book report about what they have learned to share with the class.
• Let students navigate through National Geographic's Underground Railroad site at http://www.nationalgeographic.com/railroad/. This site places the user in various situations and allows them to make decisions about escape from the perspective of a slave.

Picture Books - FLOTSAM

1. Bibliography: Wiesner, David. 2006. Flotsam. New York: Clarion Books. ISBN 0-618-19457-6.

2. Plot Summary: In this enchanting picture book by author and illustrator David Wiesner, a day at the beach turns into a surprising discovery for a curious boy. Searching for flotsam along a shoreline, a young beachcomber finds an old underwater camera. After unsuccessfully searching for its owner, the boy has the camera's film developed and uncovers its adventurous past. Realizing that he now plays a role in this camera's adventures, the boy returns the camera to the sea to share its wonders with the next discoverer.

3. Critical Analysis: Two-time Caldecott Medal winner David Wiesner demonstrates his depth of artistry through vibrant watercolors in Flotsam. Despite the absence of words, Wiesner's illustrations provide the reader a clear storyline of the camera's discovery and the anticipation of what it holds; yet intricately detailed illustrations of mechanical fish, underwater cities, and mermaid communities lead the reader to wonder whether these images are actual photographs or figments of the young boy's imagination.

Recurring throughout Flotsam, is the theme of optical discovery. From examinations of a crab through a magnifying lens, to the perceptions of the naked eye, to an in-depth look at a picture through a microscope, Wiesner entices the reader to unlock the potential of discovery. The final resolution uncovers a lineage of history displayed through a series of pictures within pictures depicting past finders of the flotsam camera dating back decades. With each re-read unveiling new details, young and older readers alike will relish in the colorful and realistic illustrations of David Wiesner's Flotsam and the wonders it reveals.

4. Review Excerpts:

• SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: "It's no surprise that this fantastic title from wordless book master Wiesner just won a Caldecott–readers will pore over every page looking for those details that are hard to catch the first time through! In this lusciously illustrated story, a beachcombing boy finds an underwater camera washed up on the shore and, when the film is developed, the images reveal amazing secrets from the deep."


• KIRKUS REVIEWS: "In Wiesner's much-honored style, the paintings are cinematic, coolly restrained and deliberate, beguiling in their sibylline images and limned with symbolic allusions. An invitation not to be resisted."


• PUBLISHERS WEEKLY: "Masterfully altering the pace with panel sequences and full-bleed spreads, he fills every inch of the pages with intricate, imaginative watercolor details. New details swim into focus with every rereading of this immensely satisfying excursion."

5. Connections:

• Read other books by David Wiesner, such as Tuesday and The Three Pigs. Compare and contrast the books by content and illustrations.


• Talk about the Caldecott Medal seal on the cover of the book and how these are awarded. Go on a Caldecott Medal scavenger hunt in the library and have children share their favorite Caldecott discovery.


• Have children bring in their own favorite photographs and talk about what is happening in the picture.


• Children can create their own underwater adventure scene using watercolors as in the story.