The Odyssey by Gareth Hinds

1. Bibliography
Hinds, Gareth. THE ODYSSEY. Somerville, MA: Candlewick Press. ISBN 0763642662.

2. Plot Summary
The story is about the adventurous travels of Odysseus, the king of Ithaca who gets lost miles away on a faraway sea after fighting in the Trojan War. His main goal is to get back to Ithaca to be with his wife and son, Telemachus, but he does not get there without enduring many trials. On his journey, he encounters a one-eyed man-eating monster, treacherous storms, and temptations brought on by immortal temptresses.

3. Critical Analysis
     It is hard to say whether a young reader (grades 7 & up) may be able to identify with Odysseus, the book's main character. He is a strong warrior who has triumphed over many battles. This is not an experience that many young readers have had. Yet, there is something about Odysseus's valor and strength as a character that will make the young reader want to root for him anyway. Odysseus is very cunning and mischievous in how he defeats his enemies--a trait that young readers may come to admire.
     What The Odyssey lacks in believability, it makes up for in originality and creativity for the sake of holding the reader's interest. The book takes the reader on a seemingly neverending journey that will always have them asking, "What's going to happen next?". Perhaps the strongest aspect of The Odyssey is the fact that it involves quests and journeys with tasks that Odysseus must accomplish in order to achieve his goal. On his journey back home, Odysseus encounters many obstacles, betrayals from his comrades, and villains like Polyphemus/Cyclops (the one-eyed, man eating monster) as well as his wife's suitors in order to reach a point of peace and justice.
     The strength of Hinds' illustrations help make the visuals tell the story itself. When readers look at the pictures and see how vivid, yet animated they are, it would not be unusual for them to feel as if they are watching a movie that they have become totally engrossed in.

4. Review Excerpts
School Library Journal-"Hinds's work will be a welcome addition for fans of Homer's original work and for newcomers to this classical story."
Booklist-"A grand example of Hinds' ability to combine historical adventure with human understanding."

5. Connections
     Young readers (grades 7 & up) may read this graphic novel version of The Odyssey after reading the original version by Homer, then note the comparison and contrast of both version in an extended essay.

Other great graphic novel versions of classic epic novels created by Gareth Hinds may include:

• Hinds, Gareth. BEOWULF. ISBN 0763630233.
• Hinds, Gareth. KING LEAR. ISBN 0763643440.

A Step From Heaven by An Na

1. Bibliography
Na, An. A STEP FROM HEAVEN. New York, NY: Penguin. ISBN 0142500275.

2. Plot Summary
Young Ju Park is a Korean-born American girl who tells her life story from the time she leaves Korea at the age of four throughout her childhood and adolescence. The book takes the reader on a journey with Young Ju and her family as they face many challenges and struggles that seem to them constantly as a family.

3. Critical Analysis
Young Ju is a character that is easy for young readers to identify with especially if they themselves have had to migrate to America from another country. As the reader progresses throughout the book, he or she began to feel a kinship toward Young Ju and her family to the point where he or she may genuinely care for them as if they are real people.
     The plot of this book often involves obstacles to overcome. This is especially true when it comes to physical and verbal abuse, alcoholism, financial struggles, and social status. What Young Ju seems to represent in this story is strength, fortitude, and a questioning of norms. She does not simply accept her father's abuse toward her, her mother and brother just because it is traditional or commonplace. She challenges him at the risk of her own well-being at times. This particular aspect could also be counted as the underlying theme of the book.
     The style and language is consistent and distinct for each character. An Na is effective in illustrating the presence of the Korean culture in some of the words that are spoken by the main characters, yet she makes the language "American" enough for American readers to be able to understand and relate to.

4. Review Excerpts
Booklist-"This isn't a quick read . . . but the coming-of-age drama will grab teens and make them think of their own conflicts between home and outside."
School Library Journal-"A beautifully written, affecting work."

5. Connections
The following is a great activity for young readers to participate in after reading A Step from Heaven by An Na:

Young readers may get into small groups to discuss the complex questions raised by immigration. They may answer the following questions:


What would make an individual, family, or group of people leave their homeland and seek to    establish a new life in another country?
Imagine what immigration would feel like.
What kinds of problems might be encountered in the process?


Have the young readers consider language/communication, cultural and religious differences, and ethnic and racial intolerance as potential issues while answering these questions (activity courtesy of http://www.teachervision.fen.com/fiction/asian-americans/20010.html).

Other great books with related themes may include:

• Alexie, Sherman. THE ABSOLUTELY TRUE DIARY OF A PART-TIME INDIAN. ISBN 0316013692.
• Jaramillo, Ann. LA LINEA. ISBN 0312373546.
• Yang, Gene Luan. AMERICAN BORN CHINESE. ISBN 0312384483.

When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead

1. Bibliography
Stead, Rebecca. WHEN YOU REACH ME. New York, NY: Random House, Inc. ISBN 0385737425.

2. Plot Summary
This book is about twelve-year-old Miranda and her group of friends in a New York City neighborhood. However, things begin to change after her best friend, Sal gets punched by a boy named Marcus. Then, he (Sal) shuts Miranda out of his life by not wanting to be around her anymore. After a while, other strange occurrences start happening. For instance, the key that Miranda's mother keeps for emergencies is stolen and Miranda keeps finding strange notes written by an anonymous person who keeps predicting the events that will change Miranda's life forever.

3. Critical Analysis
It is possible for young readers (grades 5-8) to feel a kinship with Miranda, the protagonist and narrator. Miranda is no different from the typical twelve-year-old who is just trying to make sense of the world and the reasons why people choose to do what they do. Perhaps, the most intriguing aspect that this book possesses in regards to its characters is that Miranda mirrors the disbelief of the reader, especially when a tragic event takes place involving Miranda, Sal, Marcus, and the crazy old laughing homeless man under the mailbox.
     One thing that could be said about this book is that it is original and creative enough to hold the typical young reader's interest. The language, style, and tone of the book is easy and relatable to younger readers. Miranda's voice creates a distinctive framework for the story.
     The underlying theme of this book seems to be that any person that you encounter in your life-whether you encounter in your life-whether you encounter that person every day can have a lasting impact on your life that you will never forget.

4. Review Excerpts
Kirkus Reviews-"[W]hen all the sidewalk characters from Miranda's Manhattan world converge amid mind-blowing revelations and cunning details, teen readers will circle back to the beginning and say, 'Wow...cool.'"
School Library Journal-"This unusual, thought-provoking mystery will appeal to several types of readers."

5. Connections
Here is a great activity that middle school-aged students can do after reading When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead:

Young readers can write a story in which time travel (a subject brought up pretty often in this book) takes place. First, the young reader will write a profile of three or four characters that he or she will have in his or her story. Then the young reader will consider which puzzle the story will create and how it will end up. This could also be done in groups (activity courtesy of http://textpublishing.com.au/static/files/assets/6ea3b4fa/WhenYouReachMe_TeachersResource.pdf).

Other great books with similar themes may include:

• Gantos, Jack. DEAD END IN NORVELT. ISBN 037379939.
• Lin, Grace. WHERE THE MOUNTAIN MEETS THE MOON. ISBN 0316038636.
• Vanderpool, Clare. MOON OVER MANIFEST. ISBN 0375858296.

One Crazy Summer by Rita Williams-Garcia

1. Bibliography
Williams-Garcia, Rita. 2010. ONE CRAZY SUMMER. New York, NY: HarperCollins Publishers. ISBN 0060760907.

2. Plot Summary
     This book's story is centered around eleven-year-old Delphine as she and her younger sisters, Vonetta and Fern are sent to live with the mother who abandoned them when they were younger. All of this takes place in the summer of 1968--the year of the assassinations of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Senator Robert F. Kennedy. The girls' mother, Cecile makes it clear that she wants nothing to do with them as she forces them to eat Chinese takeout dinners and forbids them to go into her kitchen. She also has strange visitors who wear Afros and black berets who come to her house often. Then Cecile sends the girls to a summer camp sponsored by the Black Panthers where they are exposed to a whole new radical existence.

3. Critical Analysis
     Young readers should be able to clearly identify with Delphine, especially if they have ever felt abandoned by a parent. Delphine's language, tone, and word usage are believable for an eleven-year-old, yet they are still grounded in the tone of appropriate for the targeted time period.
     The history of the Black Panthers presence during this time was presented accurately yet with the appropriateness for younger children to be able to grasp and understand. The plot is not overwhelmed by details and is realistic to the time period presented.
     The setting is an integral part of the story. The girls' trip to Oakland represents a change, not only in the girls' lives, but in society, as a whole. During this time,  many African-Americans were reaching a point where they were fighting for not only more respect, but for a radical change in their circumstances through participation in the Black Panthers Movement. Oakland was the center of this movement.
     The style of this book does not necessarily reflect the author's voice and manner, but it does capture the flavor of the times. It also captures the speech patterns of the era.
     What the book may be missing is proof of any thorough research conducted by the author. There was no bibliography or list of cited sources included in the book. Inclusion of these would have greatly improved the book's authenticity on the historical aspects presented.

4. Review Excerpts
School Library Journal-"Emotionally challenging and beautifully written, this book immerses readers in a time and place and raises difficult questions of cultural and ethnic identity and personal responsibility."
Booklist-"Set during a pivotal moment in African-American history, this vibrant novel shows the subtle ways that political movements affect personal lives."

5. Connections
One activity that young readers may do in relation to this book is the following activity:

I Wish I Had a Camera: Young readers will choose a scene in the book that they think is especially descriptive. Then, they may share with others why the scene is important in the developments of the characters, the plot, or theme (activity courtesy of http://www.viterbo.edu/uploadedFiles/academics/letters/english/UnitPlanOneCrazySummer.pdf).

Other great reads by Rita Williams-Garcia:

• Williams-Garcia, Rita. JUMPED. ISBN 0060760915.
• Williams-Garcia, Rita. LIKE SISTERS ON THE HOMEFRONT. ISBN 0140385614.
• Williams-Garcia, Rita. BLUE TIGHTS. ISBN 0140380450.

     

Hattie Big Sky [UNABRIDGED AUDIOBOOK] by Kirby Lawson

1. Bibliography
Larson, Kirby. 2007. HATTIE BIG SKY [UNABRIDGED AUDIOBOOK]. New York, NY: Random House, Inc. ISBN 0385735952.

2. Plot Summary
     Sixteen-year-old Hattie Brooks is an orphan who has been sent to live with one relative to another throughout her whole life. Then, she receives a letter summoning her to prove up on her deceased uncle's homestead claim in Vida, Montana. In Vida, she meets many interesting people who give her a true sense of family that she has never experienced before. Through the experiences that she faces in Vida, Hattie learns a lot about herself and her self-worth.

3. Critical Analysis
     The characters in this book are believable and identifiable to young readers aged 9 and up due to the fact that Hattie is an orphan who is trying to find her place in the world, and finds it through the love and kindness of others. There are many young readers who may be able to relate to these situations.
     The history of World War I (1914-1918) and the American suspicion of anyone of German descent are the historical aspects presented in this story. Larson was careful not to overwhelm the story with details. The events occurring in the book are truly realistic to the time period presented.
     Like many other historical fiction books, the different settings were integral to the story as a whole. The story begins in Iowa with her Uncle Holt and her mean and judgmental Aunt Ivy. Iowa represents a place of loneliness and a feeling of not belonging to Hattie. This is the place where Hattie solemnly refers to herself as "Hattie Here-and-There" due to being constantly shifted around among different relatives. Vida, Montana represents independence, self-worth, love, and a sense of belonging to Hattie.
     The style of this book does not reflect the author's voice and manner due to the fact that it is written in first person point-of-view from the story's protagonist. On the other hand, it does capture the flavor of the time period that it takes place in. This is evident in the speech patterns presented in the book as they clearly represent that era.
     There is a healthy balance of fact and fiction presented in this book without the use of stereotypes. However,there are no sources cited in the audiobook version of this book to support any extra information.


4. Review Excerpts
Booklist-"Writing in figurative language that draws on the nature and domestic detail to infuse her story with the sounds, smells, and sights of the prairie, she creates a richly textured novel full of memorable characters."
School Library Journal-"Larson creates a masterful picture of the homesteading experience and the people who persevered."

5. Connections
     Young readers of this book may learn and research the rules of homesteading in a place that they would like to live. Then they may create a chart showing the rules. (Activity courtesy of http://www.bookrags.com/lessonplan/hattie-big-sky/funactivities.html)

Other great historical fiction books written by Kirby Larson may include:

• Larson, Kirby. THE DEAR AMERICA: THE FENCES BETWEEN US. ISBN 0545224187.
• Larson, Kirby. TWO BOBBIES: A TRUE STORY OF HURRICANE KATRINA, FRIENDSHIP, AND SURVIVAL. ISBN 0802797547.

The Dragon's Child by Laurence Yep and Dr. Kathleen Yep

1. Bibliography
Yep, Laurence and Yep, Dr. Kathleen. 2008. THE DRAGON'S CHILD: A STORY OF ANGEL ISLAND. New York, NY: HarperCollins Publishers. ISBN 0062018159.

2. Plot Summary
This book tells the story of ten-year-old Gim Lew Yep who has to leave his home in China to live in America with his father whom he has never met. As he meets his father, Gem Lew is overwhelmed by the American customs and ways that his father exhibits. But, perhaps what is more overwhelming to Gim Lew is leaving the only home that he has ever known to readjust his customs and ways of a land that is totally foreign and unfamiliar to him. This is particularly difficult for a young boy who has a stuttering problem and is terribly insecure about disappointing the father that he respects, yet barely knows.

3. Critical Analysis
     The characters in this book are believable and identifiable to young readers due to the fact that Gim Lew is insecure, has a severe stutter, and is going to a foreign country. Many readers who have experienced having to leave one country to live in another or have ever had a stuttering problem, may directly identify with Gim Lew.
     The best aspect of this story is that the history is accurately presented and not sugar-coated. It displays the loss of self-identity that many Chinese immigrants may have experienced while having to migrate to America for work. However, it is presented in a tone and word usage that is easy for children to understand. The plot is not overwhelmed by details. Yep saves the details of the history behind this story for the end in an added chapter, "More About Chinese American Immigration". This particular section of the book ensures the book's authenticity with thorough research and a bibliography of cited sources to support the information presented. It also demonstration a healthy balance of fact and fiction.
     Perhaps the most integral part of the story was the presentation of different settings and their impact on Gim Lew.  Each main setting represents a certain emotion for Gim Lew. For example, China represents familiarity and comfort for Gim Lew while the journey to the land of the Golden Mountain represents sadness, loneliness, and despair for him as he approaches a land and a life that is unfamiliar to him.
     The style of the book does not necessarily reflect the author's voice and manner. Instead, it captures the voice of Gim Lew, who iis the book's protagonist and narrator (the book is written in first person point-of-view).

4. Review Excerpts
School Library Journal-"Told in Gim's very convincing voice, the tale captures the profound loss he feels at leaving his home as well as his determination to make his father proud of him."
Booklist-"With family photos, a historical note, and a long bibliography, this stirring narrative will spark readers' own search for roots."

5. Connections
One great activity to have in relation to this book is to have children (ages 8 and up) compose a short story as if they are leaving their home for a new one. Tell them that they may take only one small suitcase with them. Then have them ask themselves the following questions in the short story:

• Where would you go?
• What items would you take with you?
• Who would you want to accompany you on this journey?
• Why would you want to go to this new place?
• How would you feel about leaving home?

(Activity courtesy of http://www.teachervision.fen.com/tv/printables/harpercollins/dragons-child_rg.pdf)

Other great reads about the Chinese immigrants' journey on Angel Island may include:

• Currier, Katrina. KAI'S JOURNEY TO GOLD MOUNTAIN: AN ANGEL ISLAND STORY. ISBN 0966735242.
• Flanagan, Alice K. ANGEL ISLAND (WE THE PEOPLE: INDUSTRIAL AMERICA SERIES). ISBN 0756517249.
• Lai, Him Mark, et.al. ISLAND: POETRY AND HISTORY OF CHINESE IMMIGRANTS ON ANGEL ISLAND 1910-1940. ISBN 0295971096.

   

Almost Astronauts by Tanya Lee Stone

1. Bibliography
Stone, Lee Tanya. 2009. ALMOST ASTRONAUTS: 13 WOMEN WHO DARED TO DREAM. Somerville, MA: Candlewick Press. ISBN 07636502.

2. Plot Summary
This book tells the story of thirteen women who had a desire to become astronauts and travel in outer space. These women had to undergo rigorous tests and physical examinations to prove their ability to achieve these goals. Stone elaborates on these women's perseverance in pursuit of a dream at a time when only men were allowed to be astronauts.

3. Critical Analysis
     Stone is known for writing award-winning picture books, nonfiction, and Young Adult fiction for children. So, given her reputation, she could be considered a suitable author for the subject of this book. One intriguing aspect of this book is the inclusion of opinions from a knowledgeable reviewer like Eileen M. Collins who stated that, "I hope everyone who reads this book will be inspired to experience the joy of flying and supreme honor of venturing beyond this planet." Stone does a good job of properly citing her sources on a page-by-page basis in the "Source Notes" section in the back of the book. However, her language and tone in the book could have been more objective. She seems to overemphasize the idea of femininity and uses unnecessary references from pop culture to support her stance. The illustrations are consistent with the story being told. They are realistic enough for a nonfiction piece like this book.
     The book has a logical layout and clear sequence. It starts from the beginning of the story and ends at the end. It goes from the past and gets closer and closer to the present. It follows a pattern "specific over general" and "simple over complex" in structure.
     The style of Stone's language in the book is clear, lively, and interesting. What the book lacks in objectivity and stereotypes, it makes up for in the demonstration of the author's passion and enthusiasm about the subject. It also encourages curiosity and wonder in the reader. It prompts them to ask questions like the following: Were there even more women who aspired to become astronauts that this book did not talk about? What was there struggle like? If approached creatively by a teacher or librarian, this book could be used to encourage critical thinking among young readers.

4. Review Excerpts
School Library Journal-"This passionately written account of a classic, but little-known challenge to established gender prejudices also introduces readers to a select group of courageous, independent women."
Booklist-"A vivid portrayal . . . from engrossing details of the grueling testing to passionate indictment of the social system.

5. Connections
An appropriate activity for children to participate in after reading this book would be writing a book report or creating a presentation (PowerPoint or poster) on one of the 13 women discussed in this book.

Other great related works include:

• Freedman, Russell, et. al. THE WRIGHT BROTHERS: HOW THEY INVENTED THE AIRPLANE. ISBN 08231082.
• Kettlewell, Caroline. ELECTRIC DREAMS. ISBN 0786714859.

Amelia Lost by Candace Fleming

1. Bibliography
Fleming, Candace. 2011. AMELIA LOST: THE LIFE AND DISAPPEARANCE OF AMELIA EARHART. New York, NY: Schwartz & Wade. ISBN 0375841989.

2. Plot Summary
In this book, Candace Fleming tells the story of the life of Amelia Earhart, the most famous American female pilot. Throughout the book, Fleming alternates between the events and happenings that occurred in Earhart's fateful last flight and the story of her life. The book is also equipped with pictures, maps, and notes written by Earhart herself to complement the story as it is told.

3. Critical Analysis
     Fleming is known for her biographical works on legendary historical figures such as, President Abraham Lincoln, Eleanor Roosevelt, and Benjamin Franklin. Therefore, she is a trusted author when it comes to writing accurate information about a public or historical figure. She provides adequate source citation of her discovered information in the back of the book. From the language usage in her book, Fleming depends highly on facts about Earhart and not so much on theory (of course, there have been theories regarding Earhart's disappearance, yet Fleming consistently points them out to be the theories that they are). Her languages usage is also very pointed and simple to understand, void of stereotypes. The illustrations and text are highly consistent with the information presented.
     The layout of the book is more creative than logical. As mentioned in the plot summary, Fleming alternates between the events taking place during the course of Earhart's last flight and the story of her life. This major characteristic of the book makes it a lot like watching a movie. What the book does have is a clear sequence which begins from her birth and childhood up to her last flight. A clear sequence like this is very important in a biography.
     The style of this book may not necessarily be lively, but it is clear and interesting enough to hold the attention of a young reader. This book does not, however, do much to reveal the author's passion and enthusiasm about Earhart. It tends to keep an objective view of her with appropriate vocabulary that does not include down-talk to the reader. What Fleming may be guilty of in writing this book is making it resemble too much like a textbook. It includes many "informational boxes of an overload of information" that the reader is most likely to ignore. Also, Fleming could have done more to encourage critical thinking skills in this book.

4. Review Excerpts
Kirkus Reviews-"Handwritten notes, photos, maps, and inquisitive sidebars complete this impeccably researched, appealing package."
Horn Book Magazine-"The book's structure and scope, along with the story's inherent drama, provide a taut, cinematic backdrop for the history of Earhart's doomed flight."

5. Connections
Students (Grades 3 and up) may be encouraged to do a book report and/or create a poster about what they learned or gathered from Amelia Earhart's life and journey. Students may also be encouraged to look up the websites located in the section in the back of the book titled, "Finding Amelia on the Web."

Other great books written by Candace Fleming on extraordinary Americans may include:

• Fleming, Candace. BEN FRANKLIN'S ALMANAC: BEING A TRUE ACCOUNT OF THE GOOD GENTLEMAN'S LIFE. ISBN 068983593.
• Fleming, Candace. OUR ELEANOR: A SCRAPBOOK LOOK AT ELEANOR ROOSEVELT'S REMARKABLE LIFE. ISBN 0689865449.
• Fleming, Candace. THE GREAT AND ONLY BARNUM: THE TREMENDOUS, STUPENDOUS LIFE OF SHOWMAN P.T. BARNUM. ISBN 0375841970.

Hurricanes by Seymour Simon

1. Bibliography
Simon, Seymour. 2007. HURRICANES. New York, NY: HarperCollins Publishers. ISBN 0061170712.

2. Plot Summary
This book clearly defines and explains what hurricanes are, when they occur, where they take place, how they occur, and the lasting impact of them on people, places, and things. To complement this factual information are real-life photos that illustrate the formation of hurricanes and the devastation that they leave behind.

3. Critical Analysis
     Given Seymour Simon's credentials as a noted children's science book author, the accuracy of this book is its major advantage. However, what the book may be lacking is a clear bibliography or list of sources cited to specify where the information in this book may have stemmed from. On the other hand, Simon succeeds in avoiding stereotypes in his language use in the book as well as in differentiating facts from theory. The illustrations in the book are a clear and truthful representation of the facts provided in the book.
     The organization of the book is equipped with a logical layout and a clear sequence. This sequence consists of the following concerning hurricanes: a basic introduction to what hurricanes are and the types that exist, how they form, some background history on past hurricanes, how hurricanes are broadcast, and what to do in a hurricane. The book seems to follow a pattern of providing more general than specific information, which is a key advantage in attracting its targeted audience--children in intermediate elementary grades (Grades 3-5). One of the best characteristics of the book is its inclusion of a glossary that defines specific terms related to hurricanes such as: atmosphere, mudslide, orbit, and storm surges.
     The print in the book is inviting and readable because the wording is presented in bold type and is evenly spaced. The style of the book's language may not be necessarily lively, but it is clear and interesting. However, it does not do much to reveal the author's passion or enthusiasm about the subject. Yet, it does use appropriate vocabulary. It provides useful information without talking down to the reader, especially, when it gives tips on what do in the event of a hurricane. The book is written in a way as to not overwhelm the reader with information; however, Simon probably could have written the book in a way that further encourages critical thinking among his targeted readers.

4. Review Excerpts
Kirkus Reviews-"Simon may have done more than any other living author to help us understand and appreciate the beauty of our planet and universe."
Booklist- "The lack of an index or further resources may hamper assignment-driven children, but like most of Simon's other work, this is unsurpassed for kindling interest in a scientific subject and communicating an understanding of its scope and significance."


5. Connections
     On Simon's website (www.seymoursimon.com), educators are allowed free membership that allows them to have access and download teacher guides and other resources to use in activities with children in relation to any of his books.
     One particularly interesting activity is one called the "Hurricane Hall of Fame." In this activity, children will use the Internet or other library resources to find out about a famous hurricane whose name is retired. They are to investigate the year in which the hurricane occurred, its rating on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale, its top wind speeds, the number of casualties it caused, and the path in which it traveled. Then the children will create a poster about this hurricane that includes photos and share with others.

Other great weather-related books written by Seymour Simon include:

• Simon, Seymour. Earthquakes. ISBN 0060877154.
• Simon, Seymour. Lightning. ISBN 0060877154.
• Simon, Seymour. Tornadoes. ISBN 0064437914.

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, NY: Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing Division. ISBN 0689858205.

2. Plot Summary
This book is narrated by the protagonist, a fifteen-year-old girl named Ruby Miliken whose mother has just died and she is forced to move across the country to live with her estranged father who is a well-respected movie star. Throughout the book, Ruby describes her experiences of missing her deceased mother and her friends and aunt she left behind, adjusting to the Hollywood lifestyle, and dealing with a father that she hates.

3. Critical Analysis
This book flowed very well in language and tone. What readers may generally sense from reading this book is a feeling that Ruby is having a one-to-one conversation with them. Overall, it contains elements of life and struggle that many may have experienced in life: death of a loved one, drastic change, adjustment to drastic change, infatuation, heartbreak, homesickness, anger, resentment, forgiveness, and acceptance. There is something that Ruby projects in her story that everyone can relate to which makes this verse novel a great read.  What should also be noted about this book is the fact that it is a fast read. That is a major advantage for the young adult readers of today who would much rather utilize the latest technological gadget than read a book. It definitely holds readers' attention while taking them on a journey through Ruby's experiences as she grows and learns from every life situation that she faces.

4. Review Excerpts
Amazon.com Review-"She [Sonya Sones] has the good sense to avoid the platitudes of the tearjerker, focusing not on the melodrama of death but on the grieving process of a feisty teen--sometimes even with humor."
School Library Journal-"Despite several predictable particulars of plot, Ruby's story is gripping, enjoyable, and memorable."

5. Connections
An activity that readers (grades 7 and up) may engage in after reading this book is create a journal or diary written in the same verse format as One of Those Hideous Books Where the Mother Dies to communicate their thoughts and experiences in their own language and choice of words.

Other great verse novels written by Sonya Sones include:

• Sones, Sonya. WHAT MY MOTHER DOESN'T KNOW. ISBN 0689855532.
• Sones, Sonya. STOP PRETENDING: WHAT HAPPENED WHEN MY BIG SISTER WENT CRAZY. ISBN 0064462188.
• Sones, Sonya. WHAT MY GIRLFRIEND DOESN'T KNOW. ISBN 0689876033.

Hopscotch Love by Nikki Grimes

1. Bibliography
Grimes, Nikki. 1999. HOPSCOTCH LOVE. by Melodye Rosales. New York, NY: Lothrop, Lee & Shepard Books. ISBN 0688156673.

2. Plot Summary
This book is a collection of poems about love and their different forms: puppy love, romantic love, neighborly love, and love between family members.

3. Critical Analysis
The poems in this book illustrate love from an African-American point-of-view. In this book, the reader will see many aspects of love like heartbreak ("Hopscotch Love"), infatuation ("Sweet Tooth" and "Why I Hate Jamel"), compassion ("Uncle Willis"), and kindness ("Mr. Lester). The language in this book is very easy and understandable for its targeted audience--preteens (6th grade and up). This book of poems does not seem to possess any intellectual or educational value, but it does harbor much emotional value. Its tone and colorful illustrations make it a good book for those wanting to read it for recreation or to give to someone as a gift.

4. Review Excerpt
School Library Journal- "This small treasury will lift readers' spirits and touch their hearts."

5. Connections
After reading these poems, young readers (grades 6 and up) may be encouraged to write similar poems about their own feelings regarding different types of love.


Other great works written by Nikki Grimes include:

• Grimes, Nikki. BRONX MASQUERADE. ISBN 0756929326.
• Grimes, Nikki. GIRL NAMED MISTER, A. ISBN 0310723132.
• Grimes, Nikki. JAZMIN'S NOTEBOOK. ISBN 0141307021.

Birmingham, 1963 by Carole Boston Weatherford

1. Bibliography
Weatherford, Carole Boston. 2007. BIRMINGHAM, 1963. Honesdale, PA: Wordsong. ISBN: 1590784405.

2. Plot Summary
This book is a recount of the events that take place on a young girl's tenth birthday, which happens to take place on September 15, 1963, the day that the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, Alabama was bombed by racist terrorists. This resulted in the deaths of four young girls and many being injured. The ten-year-old girl, who is the book's narrator, describes how the day started out as a normal Sunday morning with church rituals and festivities going as planned. Then, as an explosion takes place in the church, fear and panic arise the church and the tone of the book is automatically changed from being spiritual and hopeful to fearful and dreadful.

3. Critical Analysis
It is clear from the tone and language that Weatherford was using in this book that she was trying to not only trying to paint a picture of the history of the Civil Rights Movement and a particular landmark event that happened during this movement, but she was clearly trying to evoke emotion out of the reader. She encourages feelings of pride as she illustrates the young girl's narration of her participation in sit-ins and her attendance at Dr. Martin Luther King's "I Have a Dream" speech at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. alongside her parents. She encourages joy and happiness in the young narrator's tone as she describes how her day began at church: her pride in her "patent-leather cha-cha heels," her excitement about performing This Little Light of Mine as her youth solo, and attending Sunday school. She also encourages emotions of sadness and heartbreak after the church is bombed and the four older girls that she saw going to the restroom (who she was hoping would invite her along the way) were killed in the explosion. This is evident in the young girl's quote: "The day I turned ten, there was no birthday cake with candles; just cinders, ash, and a wish I were still nine."

Weatherford's use of symbolism in this book is also to be noted. For example, there is a vivid description in the book about how the face of Jesus Christ is blown out of a stained-glass window. This clearly shows the irony of how Jesus Christ, who is seen to be a figure of peace and hope to many, especially in the Baptist church, seemingly would not have been visible in the wake of such a hateful and heinous attack.

Overall, I think that Weatherford successfully captured all of the most important elements of good children's poetry in this book: irony, evoking emotion, and imagery.

4. Review Excerpts
Kirkus Reviews-"A gorgeous memorial to the four killed on that horrible day, and to the thousands of children who braved violence to help change the world."
School Library Journal- "An emotional read...intimate and powerful."
Library Media Connection- "This is a book that should be in every library collection."

5. Connections
Due to its reference to an important event in American history, the target audience for this book was most likely be those children aged 9 and up (4th grade and up). This book would be a great source to use in lieu of teaching children about African-American history, as well as looking for typical aspects of poetry (imagery, irony, emotions, etc.). There are many aspects in this book that will allow students to make personal connections with the story being told. These aspects should be used to encourage children to express these connections in writing.
Other great books by Carole Boston Weatherford:

• Weatherford, Carole Boston. REMEMBER THE BRIDGE: POEMS OF A PEOPLE. ISBN 0399237.
• Weatherford, Carole Boston. STORMY BLUES. ISBN 1883275113.

Lion and the Ostrich Chicks and other African Tales retold by Ashley Bryan

1.      Bibliography

Bryan, Ashley.1986. LION AND THE OSTRICH CHICKS AND OTHER AFRICAN TALES. by Ashley Bryan. New York, NY: Atheneum. ISBN 068931311X.

2.      Plot Summary

This book contains a collection of folktales derived from African tradition and retold by notable children’s book author, Ashley Bryan. All of the stories include the theme of smaller animals outsmarting larger animals. For example, Lion and the Ostrich Chicks tells the story of a foolish lion who insists that he fathered some ostrich chicks that he is plotting to kill and eat for dinner. He is outsmarted by the ostrich chicks as they are able to escape from him and the chicks’ friend, a mongoose who angers the lion so much that he waits and waits for an opportunity to eat the mongoose until he wastes away from hunger.

3.      Critical Analysis

NOTE: Although this book contains four short tales, this critical analysis will only focus on Lion and the Ostrich Chicks. As I read Lion and the Ostrich Chicks, I was not totally impressed with the overly used idea of the lion being the bad guy because of his pride. However, I did like how this analogy was used to present a valuable theme: Pride and arrogance benefits no one. As the reader will see in this story, the lion is very prideful and he uses this pride to intimidate other animals. Yet, the ostrich chicks and the mongoose combat his pride with wisdom, showing that wisdom is stronger than pride (another possible theme).  Bryan, in his retelling of this African tale captures the connection between African storytellers and the animals that they may observe from afar.

4.      Review Excerpts

Publishers Weekly- “Illustrated with line art, each of four tales from a different region of Africa highlights the power of common sense.”

School Library Journal- “Bryan’s lively illustrations focus on animals engaged in the action taking place in the stories, but without any context, thus reinforcing the generic content of the stories.”

5.      Connections

Other great books written by Ashley Bryan include:

·         Bryan, Ashley. BEAT THE STORY-DRUM, PUM-PUM. ISBN 0689711077.

·         Bryan, Ashley. THE NIGHT HAS EARS. ISBN 0689824272.

The True Story of the Three Little Pigs by Jon Scieszka

1.      Bibliography

Scieszka, Jon. 1996. THE TRUE STORY OF THE THREE LITTLE PIGS. by Lane Smith. New York, NY: Puffin Books. ISBN 0140544518.

2.      Plot Summary

This children’s storybook is a creative variant based on the traditional of The Three Little Pigs. In this story, the wolf is the narrator. He claims that the traditional story is wrong and he implies that he was going to each of the three pigs’ houses in search of some sugar to bake a cake for his “dear old granny.” However, each time he gets a bad cold and sneezes so hard that he blows the first and second pigs’ houses down. As a result, he finds the pigs dead and insists that he eats them because he claims that it is a waste to just leave good ham dinners out to spoil. By the time he gets around to the third pig, who builds his of bricks, he is caught trying to break into this pig’s house and is arrested. From jail, he insists that people ran with the traditional story because it is more exciting than the story of a sick guy going to these pig’s houses in search of some sugar. He also claims that he was framed.

3.      Critical Analysis

What this book reveals to children is that anyone may take a traditional tale like The Three Little Pigs and make it their own. It encourages children to make distinctive comparisons and contrasts between traditional tales and their invented variants. It also inspires children to take it a step further by possibly inventing their own variants of traditional tales. Scieszka’s language in this book applies a very crafty and modern twist to such a traditional tale. Smith’s illustrations in the book are quite cartoonish and amusing, yet sophisticated

enough to attract children in the intermediate elementary grades (3^rd-5^th grade).

4.      Review Excerpts

Publisher’s Weekly-“Imaginative watercolors eschew realism, further updating the tale.”

Amazon.com- “As with The Stinky Cheese Man and Other Fairly Stupid Tales, the collaborators take a classic story and send it through the wisecracker machine, much to the glee of kids young and old.”

5.      Connections

Related books may include:

·         Scieszka, Jon. THE STINKY CHEESE MAN AND OTHER FAIRLY STUPID TALES. ISBN 067084487X.

·         Trivizas, Eugene. THE THREE LITTLE WOLVES AND THE BIG BAD PIG. ISBN 068981528X.

There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly by Simms Taback

1.      Bibliography

Taback, Simms. 1998. THERE WAS AN OLD LADY WHO SWALLOWED A FLY. by Simms Taback. New York, NY: Viking Juvenile. ISBN 0670869392.

2.      Plot Summary

This book is Simms Taback’s printed version of the children’s song, There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly. The book tells a story of an old lady who swallows a multitude of animals, each animal bigger than the last. She begins with a fly, then a spider, a bird, a cat, a dog, a pig, a goat, a cow, a donkey, then, finally, a horse. She swallows each animal for the purpose of that animal of catching the previous animal that she swallowed. Each description of the animals that she swallows is accompanied by a phrase that includes a word that rhymes with that animal, for example: “What a hog to swallow a dog.”

3.      Critical Analysis

This book would be a great source for teachers of primary elementary grades (PK-2^nd) to use when introducing to their students the idea of how a food chain works. Although this book does not demonstrate a logical food chain, at least it adequately presents the idea that a food chain typically begins with the smallest animal or a plant, then progresses toward larger animals. This book is also a great source for teachers to use when teaching students about how words rhyme, like onset and other kinds of rhyme.

4.      Review Excerpts

School Library Journal-“The text is handwritten on vivid strips of paper that are loosely placed on the patterned page, thus creating a lively interplay between the meaning of the words and their visual power.”

Kirkus Reviews-“It is good fun to watch the old lady bulge and bloat, and the sheer corniness of the verse continues to be deeply gratifying.”

5.      Connections

Other great books written by Simms Taback include:

·         Taback, Simms. I MISS YOU EVERY DAY. ISBN 0670061921.

·         Taback, Simms. JOSEPH HAD A LITTLE OVERCOAT. ISBN 0670878553.

·         Taback, Simms.THIS IS THE HOUSE THAT JACK BUILT. ISBN 0142402001.

Dave the Potter, Artist, Poet, Slave by Laban Carrick Hill and illustrated by Bryan Collier

1. Bibliography
Hill, Laban Carrick. 2010. DAVE THE POTTER, POET, SLAVE. by Bryan Collier. New York, NY: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers. ISBN 031610731X.

2. Plot Summary
In this book, Laban Carrick Hill tells the real-life story of a slave named Dave who had an exquisite talent for pottery. Dave uses this talent to create clay pots and carved words of poetry into the pots that reflected his viewpoint on his enslaved life. This was considered a high risk for Dave as slaves were not allowed to learn how to read and write.

3. Critical Analysis
Hill's writing in this book could take on a metaphorical sense as it could be suggested that the story is of a slave who used the Earth to tell his story and express himself. This is a well-established connection between the past and the present as this same "Earth" would exist long after Dave's death and the fruits of his talents would still survive. In his writing style, Hill takes the reader on a journey through this book as he explicitly describes how Dave creates his pottery in a step-by-step process. Perhaps the most profound aspect of how the book is written is inclusion of Dave's quote: "I wonder where is all my relation friendship to all--and, every nation." This is reflective of the need for a feeling of true equality that was probably felt by most other slaves living in Dave's lifetime.

Bryan Collier's illustrations, as with any group of illustrations in a good picture book were highly consistent with Hill's language and writing style. The pictures were very sophisticated indicating that the book itself was written and illustrated with the intermediate elementary school-level child (3rd-5th grade) as a target audience member. Children in this age group would be better able to appreciate the level of maturity that is brought across in this book's language and illustration than children in the primary elementary school-level children (Pre-K-2nd grade).

This book would be great to use as a support resource for intermediate elementary school aged students to read and/or have read to while learning about African-American history and/or slavery as it gives a unique perspective on the slaves and teaches the children that despite their bondage, slaves could still have special gifts, talents, and abilities.

4. Review Excerpts
School Library Journal-"An inspiring story, perfectly presented and sure to prompt classroom discussion and projects. Outstanding in every way."
Booklist-"Collier's gorgeous watercolor-and-collage illustrations recall the work of E.B. Lewis-earth-toned, infused with pride, and always catching his subjects in the most telling poses. A beautiful introduction to a great lost artist."

5. Connections
Related books may include:

• Levine, Ellen. HENRY'S FREEDOM BOX: A TRUE STORY FROM THE UNDERGROUND RAILROAD. by Kadir Nelson. ISBN 043977733X.
• Nelson, Kadir. HEART AND SOUL: THE STORY OF AMERICA AND AFRICAN AMERICANS. by Kadir Nelson. ISBN 0061730742.

Duck for President by Doreen Cronin and illustrated by Betsy Lewin

1. Bibliography
Cronin, Doreen. 2004. DUCK FOR PRESIDENT. by Betsy Lewin. New York, NY: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers. ISBN 0439671442.

2. Plot Summary
Doreen Cronin's Duck for President displays the levels of governmental power achieved by the book's protagonist, Duck. Duck goes from being voted farmer to governor to eventually becoming President of the United States. Despite these accomplishments, Duck expresses discontent with the responsibilities that each of these titles require. He constantly laments about the hard work that each job entails and eventually decides to move on to something else. By the book's end, he returns to the farm and begins working on his autobiography.

3. Critical Analysis
Perhaps the most intriguing aspect of Cronin's language in Duck for President is its satirical tone. For example,  it repeatedly mentioned in Duck's election campaigns for governor and president that "He gave speeches that only other ducks could understand." This could easily be seen as a satirical jest made at how often politicians tend to use language and words that are often misunderstood by the lay public in their speeches and debates. Another satirical twist to the story was when Duck was playing the saxophone on late-night television. This was obviously a jest made toward President Bill Clinton who played the saxophone on the Arsenio Hall Show when he was a presidential candidate in 1992. It is quite clear that Cronin was trying to illustrate the following theme to her readers: Many politicians work hard to campaign and be elected to higher-ranking positions, but once they obtain these positions, they realize the responsibilities that these positions entail are more than what they bargained for and many of them end up leaving politics to write memoirs or autobiographies.

Betsy Lewin's illustrations in Duck for President show great consistency with the events of the story and how it is told. Any good picture book contains pictures that could very easily tell the story if there were no words written at all. The shocked expressions of Farmer Brown and the governor after learning that they were defeated by Duck in elections were well-demonstrated. Most of Lewin's illustrations throughout the book are of a cartoonish nature, however, there were some realistic-looking pictures displayed in the book. An example of this were the pictures of the voting poll numbers between Duck and Mr. President. These pictures highly resembled an actual television news broadcast.

Overall, I think that Duck for President is an ideal children's literature book because it could very well be used to help children learn about the campaigning process, what takes place during elections, and the levels of power within national government. It may also appeal to adult audiences because of its satirical nature.

4. Review Excerpts
School Library Journal- "Lewin's characteristic humorous watercolors with bold black outlines fill the pages with color and jokes. Cronin's text is hilarious for kids and adults and includes a little math and quite a bit about the electoral process."
Publishers Weekly- "Lewin's chunky-outlined watercolors continue to cater to the younger crowd with her usual dashes of humor and dafty sweetness. Her depictions of the campaign trail motorcades, parades, and town meetings are a hoot."
Kirkus Reviews-"The comedy flows freely on more levels than one, and there's sufficient hilarity for all."

5. Connections
Related books may include:

• Cronin, Doreen. CLICK, CLACK, MOO: COWS THAT TYPE. by Betsy Lewin. ISBN 1442433701.
• Cronin, Doreen. GIGGLE, GIGGLE, QUACK. by Betsy Lewin. ISBN 1416903496.
• Cronin, Doreen. DIARY OF A WORM. by Harry Bliss. ISBN 043969745X.

Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown and illustrated by Clement Hurd

1. Bibliography
Brown, Margaret Wise. 1947. GOODNIGHT MOON. by Clement Hurd. New York, NY: Scholastic, Inc. ISBN 0590733028.

2. Plot Summary
In this picture book, Margaret Wise Brown seemed to demonstrate the "visual fading" that takes place as  someone is falling asleep. The book's core setting takes place in a bunny's bedroom and the focus of the book is on various objects within this room such as: a red balloon, a picture of a cow jumping over the moon, a picture of three bears sitting in chairs, a pair of kittens, and a pair of mittens, among other objects. As the story progresses, the bunny is saying "goodnight" to all of these objects as the pictures in the books get darker and darker. This is symbolic of the bunny drifting off to sleep.

3. Critical Analysis
Brown's language in this book consists of very simple phrases that is reflective of the vocabulary of its targeted audience-young and emergent readers (children aged 3-5). Many of the words used to reflect a consistent pattern of onset rime such as--"kittens and mittens," "clocks and socks," and "brush and mush." Rather than telling a structured story, Brown instead decides to reintroduce the objects that were pointed out earlier in the book by having the bunny say "goodnight" to these things. This seems to be a clever twist to the story, yet there appears to be some inconsistencies. For example, in the beginning of the book, it is mentioned that a telephone is in the room. Yet, unlike the other objects in the room, the telephone is not referenced later in the book. Furthermore, it seems that the bunny is representative of a child, so why would there be a telephone in his room? The book does mention an old lady saying "hush." Could this be his grandmother or mother? Is he sleeping in her room and not his own? The book does not really make this clear.

Clement Hurd's illustrations are perhaps what best tells the story. In the book, Hurd mindfully illustrates a clock in the bedroom that is set to 7:00 and has the clock set to 8:10 by the book's end. What was also clever about Hurd's illustrations was the fact that he made the made pictures darker as the reader approached the end of the book to symbolize a child going to bed. However, as with Brown's writing, there are some notable inconsistencies with Hurd's illustrations. For example, the brush in the bunny's room has "Bunny" written on it from the beginning to the middle but by the book's end the "Bunny" is no longer visible on the brush. Also, the old lady saying "hush" disappears by the end. Why would she leave if the other objects that were mentioned in the book were still there by the book's end?

Despite its inconsistencies, Goodnight Moon is a great bedtime book for young children, as well as a great source for teachers to use as they teach onset rime and patterns (the book contains a consistent pattern of colored pictures and black-and-white pictures).

4. Review Excerpts
Barnes and Noble- "Brown's soothing text is complimented by Hurd's vibrant illustrations."
Christian Science Monitor-"Rhythmic, gently lulling words combined with warm and equally lulling pictures make this beloved classic an ideal bedtime book."

5. Connections
Related books may include:

• Boynton, Sandra.GOING TO BED BOOK, THE. by Sandra Boynton. ISBN 9780671449025
• Brown, Margaret Wise. MY WORLD. by Clement Hurd. ISBN 9780694008629
• Rathman, Peggy. GOOD NIGHT, GORILLA. by Peggy Rathman. ISBN 9780399230035