Genre 6- The White Darkness

(1) Bibliography
McCaughrean, Geraldine. 2005. THE WHITE DARKNESS. New York: HarperCollins Children’s Books. ISBN 0-06-089036-3


(2) Plot Summary
Fourteen-year-old Symone Wates is a social outcast. Her two loves in life are Antarctica and Captain Titus Oates, her historical crush whose ghost she converses with. Her Uncle, Victor, takes her on a trip to Antarctica on the pretense of going to Paris. The vacation takes an ugly turn when the other passengers become ill and the rescues plane blows up. Uncle Victor reveals his true intention is to locate Symm’s Hole which he believes serves as gateway to an underground civilization. With Titus’s help will Symone escape both her deranged Uncle and the merciless Antarctic?

(3) Critical Analysis
Symone’s character will appeal to teenagers especially girls who have felt awkward about themselves. “Sym Wates is a sad loser,” according to the cruel writing on the school blackboard. She also has a hearing impairment and needs to wear hearing aids. At the end of her harrowing journey and subsequent struggle for survival, Sym realizes that she is stronger than she gave herself credit for. The plot is a bit unrealistic but not improbable. Set in Antarctica, McCaughrean has the arduous task of describing the landscape and conditions. Both the narrative and the dialogue are equally balanced. Filled with unexpected twists and turns, The White Darkness is a must read.

(4) Review Excerpt(s)
Voice of Youth Advocates: “Reading this book is like no other reading experience for this reviewer. The combination of the surreal setting of the Antarctic wilderness, the main character's imaginary friend Oates, and the completely deranged uncle who brings these two things together makes for a text that crosses back and forth between fantasy and reality in a nightmarish way.”

School Library Journal: “…McCaughrean weaves a tale of obsession and personal growth against the backdrop of nature's unrelenting power.”

(5) Connections
* Assign the class to read other books by the same author:
McCaughrean, Geraldine. Not The End Of The World. ISBN 0060760328
McCaughrean, Geraldine. Smile! ISBN 0192719610
McCaughrean, Geraldine. Stop The Train! ISBN 0606333306

* Have students conduct an on-line search on Lawrence “Titus” Oates and share what they discovered with the class.

* Assign the class to do a report on Antarctica (any aspect, any time-period).

Genre 6- Hoot

(1) Bibliography
Hiaasen, Carl. 2002. HOOT. New York: Random House Children’s Books. ISBN 0-375-82181-3


(2) Plot Summary
It isn’t easy being the new kid. Roy Eberhardt finds himself the target of a bully when his family moves from Montana to Coconut Cove, Florida. One morning while being victimized on the bus, Roy spies a strange boy running bare-footed through the neighborhood. He becomes preoccupied with finding out who this boy is and his story. Later Roy becomes entangled in the mysterious boy’s plight to save some burrowing owls from certain destruction. Will Roy be able to rid himself of the bully as well as help his new friend save the endangered owls before it is too late?

(3) Critical Analysis
The character of Roy Eberhardt will be identifiable to some readers. The character is a bit unusual because he is interested in blending in not fitting in; he does not want to be noticed. By the end of the story Roy is willing to be noticed and take a stand in order to protect the burrowing owls, making some unexpected friendships along the way. Roy’s transition is the theme. The engaging plot will have readers wondering about the mysterious boy as well. The description of the setting is light enough that Hoot could very well take place in any small community. The dialogue out weights the narration but it suits the style of the story which offers both a bit of humor and some serious moments. The unhealthy families of Dana the bully and Mullet Fingers and his step-sister, Beatrice are not hidden from the readers. It is rather unsettling that Mullet Fingers’ personal situation remains unsolved. Perhaps Hiaasen wants to address that not everyone gets a fairytale ending. Maybe there is a sequel in the works.

(4) Review Excerpt(s)
Publishers Weekly: "Several suspenseful scenes, along with dollops of humor, help make this quite a hoot indeed."

Booklist: “… the story is full of offbeat humor, buffoonish yet charming supporting characters, and genuinely touching scenes of children enjoying the wildness of nature.

(5) Connections
* Have students read another book by Carl Hiaasen:
Hiaasen, Carl. Flush. ISBN 0375841857

* Assign students to pick an environmental cause, write a report, and share with the class.

Genre 6- Artemis Fowl: The Arctic Incident

(1) Bibliography
Colfer, Eoin. 2002. ARTEMIS FOWL: THE ARCTIC INCIDENT. New York: Miramax Books. ISBN 0-7868-0855-1


(2) Plot Summary
With his father missing for the past two years and declared dead, our anti-hero Artemis Fowl has been busy rebuilding the family fortune through unscrupulous means. One day he receives an e-mail from some Russian terrorists claiming to hold his father hostage. Artemis and his trusted bodyguard, Butler, embark on a rescue mission. However, before the two are able leave they are accosted by Captain Holly Short of the Lower Elements Police (LEP) and taken to the underground fairy world. Will Artemis be able to set aside his differences and team up with LEP and vice versa? Will the thirteen-year-old arrogant, criminal genius find anyone worthy of his respect along the way?

(3) Critical Analysis
Artemis Fowl is a criminal with a zero ounce of respect for anyone and who should be behind bars yet Colfer does a superb job of making the reader care about Artemis and his mission to rescue his father. After all Artemis is only following his father’s footsteps. He is a victim who cannot help the circumstances of his birth. What starts out as a straight forward task becomes more and more complicated along the way keeping the reader engaged in the plot. Set mostly in the underground fairy world, Colfer relies mostly on dialogue to more the action along. In the end Artemis discovers there are people worthy of his respect.

(4) Review Excerpt(s)
Publishers Weekly: "Rapid-fire dialogue and wise-acre humor ensure that readers will burn the midnight oil,"

School Library Journal: “The action is brisk, with fiendish plots, ingenious escapes, and lively battle scenes.”

(5) Connections
* Have students read other novels in the series:
Colfer, Eoin. Artemis Fowl: The Eternity Code. ISBN 0786856289
Colfer, Eoin. Artemis Fowl: The Opal Deception. ISBN 0786852895
Colfer, Eoin. Artemis Fowl: The Lost Colony. ISBN 0786849592

* Have students read the graphic novel:
Colfer, Eoin, Andrew Donkin and Giovanni Rigano. Artemis Fowl: The Graphic Novel. ISBN 0786848812

*Website of interest:
http://www.artemisfowl.com/

Genre 5- The Whipping Boy

(1) Bibliography
Fleischman, Sid. 1986. THE WHIPPING BOY. Illustrated by Peter Sis. New York: Greenwillow Books. ISBN 0-688-06216-4


(2) Plot Summary
Jemmy is Prince Brat’s whipping boy. Whenever the prince misbehaves (and it happens often) Jemmy is punished in the prince’s place with a thrashing. One night claiming boredom, the prince runs away from the castle forcing poor Jemmy to come with him. The pair is later accosted in the woods by thieves. Jemmy hatches a plan to escape leading the villains to believe the he is really the prince and that the prince is the whipping boy. The only problem is Prince Brat has no desire to escape and return to the palace. To complicate matters Jemmy is implicated in the kidnapping because the ransom note is in his handwriting (Prince Brat is illiterate because he never took time to learn his penmanship). Will Jemmy and Prince Brat escape their captors and will Jemmy get to clear his name?

(3) Critical Analysis
Despite the fact the story is set somewhere in medieval Europe, young readers might relate to our protagonist, Jemmy. It is also plausible that a few readers may identify with Prince Brat. The inclusion of having the whipping boy actual whipped as well as the princes adds more drama and authenticity. Fleischman makes excellent use of dialog which intricate to the style. Sis’s black and white illustrations exhibit a lot of detail and provide the reader with a visual reference of the setting. Some of the characters seem a little silly and rather outlandish however they do not subtract from the story.

(4) Review Excerpt(s)
Publishers Weekly: “…things turn out for the best at the story's satisfying close. Colorful types like thieves called Hold-Your-Nose Billy, Betsy and her dancing bear Petunia, et al., increase the fun.”

School Library Journal: “This whimsical, readable story delights in the manner of Bill Brittain's books The Wish Giver (1983) and The Devil's Donkey (1981, both Harper).”

(5) Connections
*Assign the following books sharing similar themes to the class:
Kudlinski, Kathleen V. and Lyn Durham. Marie: An Invitation To Dance France, 1775. ISBN 0606108238
Snyder, Zilpha Keatley. The Egypt Game. ISBN 1416960651
Yep, Laurence. Spring Pearl: The Last Flower. ISBN 1584855193

* The class can participate in a reader’s theater script of The Whipping Boy.

Genre 5- Worth

(1) Bibliography
LaFaye, A. 2004. WORTH. New York: Simon & Schuster Books. ISBN 0-689-85730-6


(2) Plot Summary
Eleven-year-old Nathanial’s life is turned upside down when he breaks his leg in an accident on the family’s farm. No longer able to do farm work, Nate begins to feel useless and unwanted. These feels are exacerbated because Nate’s Pa does not speak to him anymore much less even look at him. The plot thickens when Pa brings home John Worth, an orphan from the orphan train, to work on the farm. Nate gets jealous and begins to hate this boy who gets to spend time with his Pa while Nate has to go to school. John is envious of Nate because he wants to go to school and secure a better future for himself. When a fence war in the community breaks out will Nate and John be able to set aside their differences and work together?

(3) Critical Analysis
The protagonist, Nate, and the main antagonist, John, are both identifiable to young readers. Both boys feel out of their place and element. By showing Ma’s anger and dismay with John, LaFaye keeps the novel very real. Not all orphans from the orphan train were wanted or even treated well by their foster families. It is important to note that Ma is not a bad woman; she is unhappy with the situation her husband has consigned her to. LaFaye also incorporates the death of a sister; the family is still suffering from this loss. Times are tough for Nate’s family. Most of the crops are ruined due to a storm and some renegade cattle and there are bank loans that need to be repaid. Set in the Nebraska plains of the late 1800’s, Worth gives readers a glimpse into the harsh reality of farm life.

(4) Review Excerpt(s)
Publishers Weekly: “The author weaves in a subtle message about the power of story, as Nate builds a bond with John by reading him Greek myths out of a borrowed book.”

School Library Journal: “The author convincingly conveys the boys' gradual realization of the value of one another's friendship. Other themes include the importance of reading and education, meeting challenges head on, relying on and playing a responsible role in your community, and recovering from loss.”

(5) Connections
* Assign the class to read other books by A. LaFaye:
LaFaye, A. Stella. ISBN 978-1416911647
LaFaye, A. Edith Shay. ISBN 0670875988

* Have students visit websites of interest:
The Children’s Aid Society (http://www.childrensaidsociety.org/about/history/orphantrain)
National Orphan Train Complex (http://www.orphantraindepot.com/index.html)

Orphan Trains (http://www.genealinks.com/orphantrain.htm)

Genre 5- Kira-Kira

(1) Bibliography
Kadohata, Cynthia. 2004. KIRA-KIRA. New York: Athenaeum Books. ISBN 0-689-85639-3


(2) Plot Summary
Katie idolizes her big sister. Lynn is a genius, beautiful, and always looking out for her little sister. Katie learns from Lynn to see the Kira-Kira in everything- in the wind, in the water, and in the waves. When the family grocery store goes out of business, Katie’s family moves from Iowa to Georgia where there are hatchery jobs available. In the beginning Katie has a difficult time with the move and subsequent mistreatment by other people. She doesn’t understand why the girls in her class will not play with her and why their mothers will not acknowledge her mother on the street. Lynn becomes very ill and the illness puts an emotional and economic strain on the family.

(3) Critical Analysis
Told through Katie’s point of view, young female readers will identity with Katie. Though her heritage and background may differ, Katie’s experiences and feelings are universal to that of many young girls. Kadohata chooses to included in the story the racism experienced by Japanese-Americans in mid-nineteenth century United States. She could have easily have not disclosed it but doing so would have not given credence and power to Katie’s story. Unfortunately most young people have felt at one time alienated for one reason or another so they are drawn further to Katie. In the end Katie discovered the theme of Lynn’s life (what she was trying to teach her all along), to see the kira-kira (the glitter, and the joy and the beauty) in even the simplest of things.

(4) Review Excerpt(s)
Publishers Weekly: “one sister's ability to teach her younger sister to appreciate the `kira-kira,' or glittering, in everyday life make this novel shine."

Booklist: “The real story is in the small details, never self-consciously poetic but tense with family drama. …Kadohata stays true to the child's viewpoint in plain, beautiful prose that can barely contain the passionate feelings just as heart wrenching as the sisters' story is what Katie knows of her father's struggle, whether it's his backbreaking work in the factory or his love for his family.”

(5) Connections
* Have students read the following books:
Kadohata, Cynthia. Weedflower. ISBN 0689865740
Uegaki, Chieri. Suki's Kimono. ISBN 1553370848
McCoy, Karen Kawaamota. Bon Odori Dancer. ISBN 187996516X

* The class can perform a reader’s theater script. Be sure to switch out the children often so that everyone gets a chance to participate.

Genre 4- The Voice That Challenged A Nation

(1) Bibliography
Freedman, Russell. 2004. THE VOICE THAT CHALLENGED A NATION: MARIAN ANDERSON AND THE STRUGGLE FOR EQUAL RIGHTS. New York: Houghton Mifflin Company. ISBN 0-618-15976-2


(2) Plot Summary
Marian Anderson rose from poverty to become one of the greatest singers in the world. Despite the fact that she had sang in the major capitals of Europe, performed for Kings and Queens as well as for President and Mrs. Roosevelt at the White House; she denied the opportunity to perform at Constitutional Hall. The hall owners, the Daughters of the American Revolution, had a ban on black artist and they refused to reserve their stance. Outraged her supporters organized a free concert on the step of the Lincoln Memorial

(3) Critical Analysis
Freedman meticulously documents and cites all of his sources. This biography is beautifully organized and well written. The sequence of information is clear and concise. Black and white photographs are incorporated. Pages 66 and 67 display the Lincoln Memorial performance; these images convey what no words can describe. The following text found on page 1 summarizes the spirit of the book:

“Lord I got a right,
Lord I got a right,
Lord I got a right,
I got a right to the tree of life.”


(4) Review Excerpt(s)
Voice of Youth Advocates: “Freedman creates a masterful biography of Marian Anderson.”

Publishers Weekly: “…most poignant is Freedman's re-creation of Anderson's 1939 performance before 75,000 fans at the Lincoln Memorial, a concert precipitated by the DAR's refusal to allow a black singer to appear at its Constitutional Hall…”

(5) Connections
* Visit the official website:
The Marian Anderson Historical Society
(http://www.mariananderson.org)

* Search for video on YouTube
“Deep River”
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ktz6WAKCR3g
“Ave Maria”
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TR95d7yP2Ig&feature=related
“"My Country, 'Tis of Thee"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wQnzb0Jj074

Genre 4- An American Plague

(1) Bibliography
Murphy, Jim. 2003. AN AMERICAN PLAGUE: THE TRUE AND TERRIFYING STORY OF THE YELLOW FEVER EPIDEMIC OF 1793. New York: Houghton Mifflin Company. ISBN 0-395-77608-2


(2) Plot Summary
This text chronicles the yellow fever outbreak of 1793 in Philadelphia. The emergence of the disease was not noticed in the beginning. It was not until people began to fall ill and die that the city started to become aware of issue. Doctors debated about type of illness it was and speculated about what caused it. Wealthy and well-to-do citizens (as many as 20,000) fled the city leaving behind those who could not afford to escape. The yellow fever epidemic decimated about 2,000 people and brought the United States Government to halt.

(3) Critical Analysis
Murphy draws on a multitude of sources included numerous firsthand medical and non-medical accounts, several of which he quotes.

“Death, mounted on his pale horse, seemed to ride
triumphant: there was but a step between the people
in the city and the tomb.”

The text is chronologically organized and flows very well. Several illustrations and newspaper clippings are peppered throughout the book. On page 78 and page 90 appear a list of victims from the 1794 epidemic from Matthew Carey’s history. These experts and others aid in showing the reader how real and dire the situation was. Those that witnessed the detestation of the plague never learned the cause of it. Murphy goes beyond and provides that information to the reader in chapter 8. Without this information the story would have appeared incomplete.

(4) Review Excerpt(s)
Voice of Youth Advocates: “The story is captivating, and the writing is straightforward. Readers come away with a sense of the era as a whole and a keen picture of the overall devastation brought by yellow fever.”

Booklist: “Drawing on firsthand accounts, medical and non-medical, Murphy re-creates the fear and panic in the infected city, the social conditions that caused the disease to spread, and the arguments about causes and cures.”

(5) Connections
* Assign other books about plagues:
Karner, Julie. Plague and Pandemic Alert! ISBN 0-7787-1580-9
Lynette, Rachel. Bubonic Plague. ISBN 0-7377-2639-3
Robson, Pam. The Great Plague. ISBN 0-7500-1934-4

* Cross-curriculum and teach a health unit on disease prevention. Discuss how germs are spread and stress the important of hand washing.

Genre 4- Quest for the Tree Kangaroo

(1) Bibliography
Montgomery, Sy. 2006. QUEST FOR THE TREE KANGAROO: AN EXPEDITION TO THE CLOUD FOREST OF NEW GUINEA. New York: Houghton Mifflin Company. ISBN 0-618-49641-6


(2) Plot Summary
This narrative follows the mission of a research team to locate the elusive Matschie’s Tree Kangaroo. The animal is an endangered species, having been hunted and eaten by the natives for hundreds of years. The team will trek on a three day hike through rugged terrain facing many hazards along the way to get to the Tree Kangaroo’s habitat. The plan is to capture and outfit a few of these creatures with a radio collar. By tracking these marsupials, scientists will learn more about their habits and figure out how to best help them.

(3) Critical Analysis
The author is able experience the expedition because she accompanied the research team! Montgomery is able to witness scientist and experts at work. The book is nicely organized. While the narrative is intended to be read from cover-to-cover, there are a few stand alone snippet sections such as “Marsupial Mania” and “Fantastic Cloud Forest” that the reader can jump right into. Nic Bishop’s photographs are colorful and amazing. Without them the tale would not be as impressive as it is for the photographs are an intricate part of the design and presentation. Robin Wingrave beautiful watercolor maps show the reader where the adventure takes place. The Quest for the Tree Kangaroo makes a wonderful addition to any child’s home library.

(4) Review Excerpt(s)
Booklist: “…Montgomery gives an unusually strong, visceral sense of the work and cooperation fieldwork entails and the scope and uniqueness of this particular mission.”

School Library Journal: “The book's fascinating glimpses into a little-explored region will hold the attention of anyone interested in unusual creatures and the efforts to study them.”

(5) Connections
* Have the class read other books by Sy Montgomery:
Montgomery, Sy. Search for the Golden Moon Bear: Science and Adventure in Pursuit of a New Species. ISBN 1-60358-063-8
Montgomery, Sy. The Snake Scientist. ISBN 0-618-11119-0
Montgomery, Sy. The Tarantula Scientist. ISBN 0-618-14799-3

* Students can visit ARKIVE at http://www.arkive.org/ for information, images, and video on Tree Kangaroo and other endangered species.

Genre 3- Out of the Dust

(1) Bibliography
Hesse, Karen. 1997. OUT OF THE DUST. New York: Scholastic Press. ISBN: 0-590-36080-9


(2) Plot Summary
Set in 1930’s Oklahoma this novel covers two years in the life of a teenage girl named Billie Jo. She lives with her parents on their farm and life is a constant struggle. With the dust storms, lack rain, the Great Depression, and the fact he hasn’t had a good crop in three years, Billie Jo’s father attempts to grow wheat. Despite these set backs, somehow the family manages to survive. There is some excitement in house because Billie Jo’s mother is pregnant. When Billie Jo is not in school or studying for state exams, she plays the piano and dreams playing the piano will take her somewhere.

(3) Critical Analysis
Written in narrative free verse, the novel manages to flow well. The flow endures even when Hesse breaks up some of the verses as in “The Dream.”

Piano, my silent
mother,
I can touch you,
You are cool
and smooth
and willing
to stay with me
stay with me
talk to me.

Hesse uses rhythm as a tool and by disrupting it she conveys the strong emotions associated with loss. The emotional impact of this verse-in-novel is strong. The reader feels the heroine’s joy and pain, her confusion and hope. The imagery is extremely vivid and the verses convey this property without being to wordy. The story is powerful and moving.


(4) Review Excerpt(s)
Booklist: “…Hesse's writing transcends the gloom and transforms it into a powerfully compelling tale of a girl with enormous strength, courage, and love.”

Kirkus Reviews: “…there are no pat endings, but a glimpse of beauty wrought from brutal reality.”

(5) Connections
*Have the class read other novels set in the Great Depression Era:
Koller, Jackie French. Nothing to Fear. ISBN 015257820
Taylor, Mildred. Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry. ISBN 0803726473

*Have students read non-fiction literature as well:
Freedman, Russell. Children of the Great Depression. ISBN-13 9780618446308
Lied, Kate. Potato: A Tale from the Great Depression. ISBN 0792269465

*Science Connection: Study dust storms.
Planet Gobbling Dust Storms. http://science.nasa.gov/headlines/y2001/ast16jul_1.htm
Science: Causes of the Dust Bowl. http://www.woodyguthrie.org/curriculum/curscience.htm
What caused the 1930s dust bowl (for images)? http://www.eurekalert.org/features/kids/2004-03/aaft-wct020805.php

Genre 3- Knock On Wood

(1) Bibliography
Wong, Janet S. 2003. KNOCK ON WOOD: POEMS ABOUT SUPERSTITIONS. Ill. by Julie Paschkis. New York: Margaret K. McElderry Books. ISBN: 0-689-85512-5


(2) Plot Summary
KNOCK ON WOOD is a collection of 17 poems about superstitions. Subjects include black cats, four leaf clovers, luck horseshoes, broken mirrors, and the number 13- often deemed unlucky by some people. The book gets its title from the final poem “Wood.” Janet S. Wong includes a section briefly discussing the superstitions. The final page is devoted to the author’s personal notes.

(3) Critical Analysis
The poems are written in free verse and she makes little use of rhyme. There are very few sound elements. Wong uses language to shows feelings and tones.

oak for a mind whose grain runs deep,
pine for the soft-hearted,
cedar for the clear conscience.

The imagery is a little weak but the illustrations compensate for it. Paschkis watercolors are amazing and are in some cases strong than the accompany poem as in “Ears,” “Garlic,” and “Hair.” Paschkis represents children of many different ethnicities in illustrations making the collection multicultural.


(4) Review Excerpt(s)
Booklist: “Filled with mystery, magic, and hidden worlds, these are poems to liven up language arts classes and to spark discussions about personal beliefs.”

School Library Journal: “Humor, satire, subplots, historic references, and decorative and surreal elements abound in artful profusion. There is much to ponder in both words and pictures.”

(5) Connections
*Have students read other books about superstitions:
Gay, Kathlyn. Keep the Buttered Side Up: Food Superstitions from Around the World. ISBN 0802774695
Jenkins, Steve. Duck’s Breath and Mouse Pie: A Collection of Animal Superstitions. ISBN 0395696887

*Have the class discover the science behind some superstitions:
Ruchlis, Hyman. How Do You Know it’s True?: Discovering the Difference Between Science and Superstition. ISBN 0879756578
Winner, Cherie. Circulating Life: Blood Transfusion from Ancient Superstition to Modern Medicine. ISBN 0822566060

*Children can visit Childrens Books Site Index of Superstitions: http://www.childrensbookssite.com/Superstition_index.htm

Genre 3- A Pizza the Size of the Sun

(1) Bibliography
Prelutsky, Jack. 1996. A PIZZA THE SIZE OF THE SUN. Ill. by James Stevenson. New York: Greenwillow Books. ISBN 0-688-13236-7


(2) Plot Summary
In the first poem the author is making a gigantic pizza. He plies on “oceans of sauce,” “mountains of cheese,” and acres of toppings! It’s an original that he is willing to share with all pizza lovers. The pie will take a year and a half to bake. This book is full of adventures such as “I’m wrestling with an octopus,” “I’m practically covered with needles and pins,” “I made something strange with my chemistry set,” and “I’m proud of my Preposterpus.”

(3) Critical Analysis
An anthology of silly poems, A Pizza the Size of the Sun is loads of fun. Most of these poems rhyme and are in cadence. Prelutsky gets creative with some of the poems. “I Was Walking in a Circle” is written in a circle and reads clockwise. “Backwards Forwards Silly Rhyme” is pended entirely backwards. “Gloppe’s Soup Shope” contains an illustrated list of the soups sold within the poem. The reader needs a mirror in order to read “I Am Your Mirror Image.” The author makes use of alliteration in “Quentin Quimble Quamble Quayle.” The chorus in “Rat for Lunch” is humorous and delightful:

Rat for lunch! Rat for lunch!
Yum! Delicious! Munch munch munch!
One by one of by the bunch—
Rat, oh rat, oh rat for lunch!

Several creatures are anthropomorphic such as the Jellybean Brigade, the Teenage Hippopotamus, and the Unsavory Tomato. At times Prelutsky uses some vocabulary that is a bit advanced (i.e. ascertained, predicament, invariably) but it is important for children to get exposure to new words in order to expand their vocabulary. The emotional impact is ridiculous, carefree, and amusing. Stevenson’s black and white illustrations really compliment the poems. Poor Mr. Rollo now framed on the author’s living room wall.

(4) Review Excerpt(s)
Booklist: “A delightful addition to poetry collections that will not stay on the shelf for long.”

Publishers Weekly: “This often boisterous mix of silliness and song should prove entertaining for the whole family.”

(5) Connections
*Have the children read other Prelutsky poem books:
Prelutsky, Jack. Nightmares: Poems to Trouble Your Sleep. ISBN 0688840531
Prelutsky, Jack. The Frogs Wore Red Suspenders. ISBN 006073776X
Prelutsky, Jack. The Beauty and the Beast: Poems for the Animal Kingdom. ISBN 067987058X

*Have the class explore similar poetry selections:
Foster, John. My First Oxford Book of Nonsense Poems. ISBN 0192762753
Milligan, Spike. Silly Verse for Kids. ISBN 0140303316
Cole, Joanna. Anna Banana: 101 Jump-Rope Rhymes. ISBN 0688077889

*Students can visit Mr. Prelutsky official website: http://www.jackprelutsky.com/

Genre 2- Horse Hooves and Chicken Feet

(1) Bibliography
Philip, Neil. 2003. HORSE HOOVES AND CHICKEN FEET: MEXICAN FOLKTALES. Ill. by Jacqueline Mair. New York: Clarion Books. ISBN 0618194630

(2) Plot Summary
This book is a collection of Mexican-American tales, mostly of Spanish origin. They have been past down orally for generations. These tales come not from professional storytellers but from regular everyday folks, “mostly farmers, stock raisers, farm laborers, sheep-herders, housewives…” There is a bit of magic here for everyone.

(3) Critical Analysis
This book is interesting anthology of tales that range from one page to a few pages in length. Some tales are serious while others are silly yet both types exhibit that special kind of magic that can only be found in folktales. True to the culture, Philips selections are engaging and amusing. Philips includes notes for each of the tales for those further interested in other variants. With bright, strong colors Mair’s illustrations are multi-faceted often depicting many scenes in the respective tale.

(4) Review Except(s)
Booklist: “…one illustration comprising several images accompanies each story, each image mirroring some action, often in a way that is original and unexpected.”

School Library Journal: “…this richly varied collection presents the unique blend of folkloric elements and the Catholicism that defines Mexican folklore.”

(5) Connections

* Discuss the themes and characters that are prevalent in the tales: three wishes, Cinderella, the Virgin Mary, the Devil, etc.

* Read other versions of the tales presented. Have the children compare and contrast.

* Make a cultural tie in by having the class study Mexican Holidays such as Dia de Los Santos Reyes, Feast Day of de San Antonio de Abad, Dia de la Candelaria, Carnaval, Dia de los Muertos, etc.

Genre 2- Lon Po Po

(1) Bibliography
Young, Ed. 1989. LON PO PO: A RED-RIDING HOOD STORY FROM CHINA. Ill. by Ed Young. New York: Philomel Books. ISBN 0399216197


(2) Plot Summary
Three little girls are home alone and a wolf gains entry into the house disguised as their old grandmother. He plans to eat the children and climbs into bed with them. The eldest see the wolf’s face and devises a plan to get away. She entices the wolf with talk of gingko nuts, “Gingko is soft and tender, like the skin of a baby. One taste and you will live forever.” The wolf complains that he is old and can no longer climb up trees. The girl tells him that she and her siblings will go pick some Gingko nuts. Once outside she tells her sisters about the wolf and they scurry up the tree. Can they out smart the wolf at this own game?

(3) Critical Analysis
This version of the classic Little Red Riding Hood tale takes the story to new dramatic and frightening limits. The wolf is anthropomorphic enough to actually pass for the girls’ grandmother. He knows he is clever but underestimates the wit of his young victim. The illustrations add to the realism of this progressive plot. Young does an excellent job of staying within the culture. The reader does not doubt that the story takes place in China. Young’s beautiful and powerful watercolors add a spooky and mysterious effect. The images are broken up to create the illusion of a wall scroll which intensifies the flow of action.

(4) Review Except(s)
School Library Journal: “With forceful impressionistic paintings, Young artfully entices readers across the fairy-tale threshold…”

Booklist: “Young incorporates a wolf image into every illustration in this Chinese version of the familiar… tale, imparting a sense of courage as well as danger.”

(5) Connections
*Read a tale of Little Red Riding Hood to the class.

*Read other tales with wolves:
Hennessy, B.G. The Boy Who Cried Wolf. ISBN 0689874332
Seibert, Patricia. Three Little Pigs. ISBN 1577683676
White, Mark. The Wolf In Sheep's Clothing. ISBN: 1404802207

*Discuses the story from the wolf’s point of view. Why are wolves portrayed in literature as bad?

Genre 2- The Egyptian Cinderella

(1) Bibliography
Climo, Shirley. 1989. THE EGYPTIAN CINDERELLA. Ill. by Ruth Heller. New York: HarperCollins Children’s Books. ISBN 0064432793

(2) Plot Summary
Rhodopis is a Greek slave girl in Egypt. Even though her master is kind, she is mistreated by the Egyptian servant girls. After her master sees her dancing, he has a pair of golden rose-red slippers made for her. The gift evokes the jealousy of the servant girls. When the Pharaoh holds high court, they sail away to the event leaving poor Rhodopis behind. To add to her misery a falcon flies off with one of her slippers. At the high court the falcon drops the slipper into the lap of the Pharaoh who is bored with the affair. Seeing the falcon as sign, the Pharaoh declares that he shall marry the maiden who fits the slipper. The Pharaoh proceeds to search all over Egypt. Will his quest lead him to Rhodopis?

(3) Critical Analysis
The character of Rhodopis is simple yet very real. She is fortunate than most slaves but is still mistreated because she is different. This difference adds to her cross-cultural appeal. Most readers can identify with what it is like to be different. She may seem like a weak character but she is not. Despite her situation (losing her home, losing her parents, her subsequent enslavement and mistreat by the other girls) Rhodopis does all she can to keep her spirits up, dancing for her animal friends. The illustrations are amazing. Not only are the colors very vivid but Heller provided a tremendous amount of detail (i.e. the falcon’s feathers). In the scene when Rhodopis master spies her dancing, it almost seems as if Rhodopis might twirl right off the page.

(4) Review Except(s)
Publishers Weekly: “In mellifluous prose and majestic illustrations, these collaborators present an inventive twist on the classic tale.”

School Library Journal: “A stunning combination of fluent prose and exquisitely wrought illustrations.”

(5) Connections
*Have students compare and contrast the story elements with the Disney Cinderella.

*Create a reader theater script and have the class perform it.

*Read Climo’s other Cinderella tales to the class:
Climo, Shirley. The Irish Cinderlad. ISBN 0-606-17881-3
Climo, Shirley. The Korean Cinderella. ISBN 0-06-443397-8
Climo, Shirley. The Persian Cinderella. ISBN 0-06-443853-8

Genre 1- The Art of Eric Carle

(1) Bibliography
Carle, Eric, et al. 1996. THE ART OF ERIC CARLE. Ill. by Eric Carle. New York: Penguin Group Incorporated. ISBN 0763625973


(2) Plot Summary
This title is a medley of stories and pictures exploring the art and works of Eric Carle. Mr. Carle discusses his life growing up and now it later influenced his art. His colleagues also share their memories and thoughts about the author/illustrator. A speech, Where Do Ideas Come From, given by Eric Carle at the Library of Congress is also featured. In addition Mr. Carle shares his collage tissue paper technique that he uses to create his illustrations. Several illustrations from his picture books are displayed in the book.

(3) Critical Analysis
An enjoyable treasure, The Art of Eric Carle, contains an autobiography, articles of colleagues’ reflections, and personal photographs. The reader is treated to photographs of Eric Carle’s life and family as well as some of his early professional artwork before he became involved in picture books. Mr. Carle’s Where Do Ideas Come From speech is both magical and touching, “Some ideas come from the outside, and other ideas come from your inside.” To him all experiences both good and bad are dabs of color that form the picture of both his work and his life. The autobiography while fascinating seems rather truncated which leaves the reader searching for more. An expanded autobiography would have benefited this book greatly. One could spend hours staring at the brilliant artwork. The illustrations are the heart of the book.

(4) Review Except(s)
Booklist Review: “Carle is one of the most beloved illustrators of children’s books.”

Kirkus Review: “An agreeable overview of Carle’s life and work, a consideration of the genesis of his ideas…”

(5) Connections
* Have children paint and texture tissue paper.

* Have children, as a class, create a collage poster.

* Read a few of Eric Carle’ books to the class:
Carle, Eric. The Very Hungry Caterpillar. ISBN 0-399-25190-1
Carle, Eric. Do You Want To Be My Friend? ISBN 0-7587-8917-3
Carle, Eric. Eric Carle’s Treasury Of Classic Stories For Children. ISBN 0-590-50213-1

Genre 1- Kitten's First Full Moon

(1) Bibliography
Henkes, Kevin. 2004. KITTEN’S FIRST FULL MOON. Ill. by Kevin Henkes. New York: Greenwillow Books. ISBN 0-06-058838-4


(2) Plot Summary
A kitten witnesses a full moon for the first time and believes it to be a big bowl of milk. The kitten tries in vain to get at the bowl. After many failed attempts, she finally gives up. When the kitten arrives home there is a bowl of milk on the porch waiting for her.

(3) Critical Analysis
Set in the darkness of night, the main static character in this story is a persistent little kitten that is determined to get her bowl of milk in the sky. The other character is the moon who constantly evades the kitten. Throughout the book each time the kitten fails the narrator utters “poor kitten!” This is important because Henkes wants the young readers to empathize with the kitten and her plight, not ridicule her. At the end when the kitten finally gets her bowl of milk the narrator cheers the kitten exclaiming “lucky kitten!” Despite being only black and white, the pictures captivate the eyes. Henkes utilize bold strong lines and shading to bring the kitten to life. It almost seems as if she could jump right out the book. The images are so powerful they could stand alone with the text to tell the story.

(4) Review Excerpt(s)
School Library Journal: “An irresistible offering from the multifaceted Henkes.”

Publishers Weekly: “The narrative and usual pacing will keep children entranced…”

(5) Connections
* Utilize the Board of Felt to reenact the story.

* Dress-up (teacher, librarian, or childcare provider) as a cat.

* Read books about cats and about the moon:
Carle, Eric. Have You Seen My Cat? ISBN 0-15-314263-4
Carle, Eric. Papa, Please Get The Moon For Me. ISBN 0-88708-026-X

Genre 1- Knuffle Bunny

(1) Bibliography
Willems, Mo. 2004. KNUFFLE BUNNY. Ill. by Mo Willems. New York: Hyperion Books for Children. ISBN 078681870-9


(2) Plot Summary
Trixie and her daddy walk to the Laundromat. On the way back home, Trixie realized she left her stuff bunny, Knuffle Bunny, behind. She is not yet speaking and babbles to her daddy but he does not comprehend. Unable to communicate properly Trixie throws a temper tantrum the rest of the way home. When they arrive home her mommy immediately notices that Knuffle Bunny is missing. The family races back to the Laundromat and Trixie’s daddy rescues Knuffle Bunny from the washing machine. With her beloved Knuffle Bunny back in her arms Trixie speaks her first words, “Knuffle Bunny!!!”

(3) Critical Analysis
The dynamic main character of this story is a little girl about 2 years old named Trixie. Her daddy and mommy are the supporting characters. The way Willems displays the gibberish (baby talk) in the text accentuates the desperateness of the situation. The family plight of running down the block, through the park, and past the school creates even more drama. Knuffle Bunny should still be at the Laundromat but there is the possibility that he is not and Trixie has lost him forever.

The illustrations are a fascinating combination of hand drawings and photos. The background images consist of black and white photography while the people are drawn and colored in. Willems has a unique technique of employing strong yet sketchy lines. The pictures also provide a brief flashback in the beginning of the book. The readers get to see pictures of Trixie’s parents wedding day, the day Trixie was born, and of the family standing in from of their house in Park Slope, Brooklyn.

(4) Review Excerpt(s)
School Library Journal: “A seamless and supremely satisfying presentation of art and text.”

Publishers Weekly: “Willems once again demonstrates his keen insight with a story both witty and wise.”

(5) Connections
* Bring stuffed bunnies and rabbits for children to hold during story time.

* Read other books on lost stuff animals:
Alborough, Jez. Where's My Teddy? ISBN 0-7636-1868-3
Crummel, Susan Stevens. Plaidypus Lost. ISBN 0-8234-1561-9

* Let the adventure continue by reading Mo Willems’ Knuffle Bunny Too: A Case Of Mistaken Identity. ISBN 1-4231-0299-1

First post

I have created this blog to post my required book reviews for my class (Literature for Children and Young Adults- LS 5603).