Module 10 - Draw Me a Star

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Book Summary

A young artist is asked to draw a star, so he does. Then the artist is asked by the star to draw a sun. The sun asks for a tree. This pattern continues with each new picture asking for another until a beautiful garden scene is put together, complete with a rainbow. The rainbow asks for a dark night, which eventually leads to a beautiul star in the sky.

Written by Eric Carle

APA Reference of Book

Carle, E. (1992). Draw me a star. New York, NY: Philomel Books.

Impressions

Just like Eric Carle's other works, the images are the first thing that readers notice. The tissue paper collage images are hypnotic. The simple shapes are a sharp contrast to the depth and complexity of the tones and patterns. Like the simple shapes, the word choices are also simple. This combines with the sentence structures make this a very readable book for emerging readers. The predictability of the text also adds to the readability. Other than one page, this is a sweet simple story. Those that challenge this book focus on one page of this children's picture book. When the tree asks the artist to draw him a man and a woman, he draws them with no clothes and fairly anatomically correct. As a parent this can be viewed as a problem if the book was not previewed before reading it to your children or if they read it away from you. 

Professional Review

K-Gr 4-- A young boy is told (readers are not sure by whom) to ``Draw me a star.'' The star then requests that the boy draw it a sun; the sun asks for a ``lovely tree,'' and throughout his life the boy/man/artist continues to create images that fill the world with beauty. The moon bids the now-elderly artist to draw another star, and as the story ends, the artist travels ``across the night sky'' hand-in-hand with the star. This book will appeal to readers of all ages; its stunning illustrations, spare text, and simple story line make it a good choice for story hour; but older children will also find it uplifting and meaningful. Especially pleasing is a diagram within the story, accompanied by rhyming instructions on how to draw a star: ``Down/ over/ left/ and right/ draw/ a star/ oh so/ bright.'' An inspired book in every sense of the word.

Larkin, E. (1992). Draw me a star. School Library Journal, 38(10), 80.

Library Uses

In this book Eric Carle draws beautiful stars. He also breaks down the process into eight easy steps to follow. This could be used as a springboard to talk about how complex things, such as the research process, can be broken down into smaller steps to make it manageable. 

Module 10 - Heather has Two Mommies

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Book Summary

Heather is a young girl with two arms, two legs, two hands and two mamas. She is excited to start her new school and meet all her new friends. When asked what her daddy does, it occurs to Heather that she may be the only one there without a daddy. Her teacher changes the focus by having everyone draw their families. Then she tells that all that matters is that the people in their family love each other.

Written by Newman, Lesléa
Original Illustrated by Diana Souza

APA Reference of Book

Newman, L. (1989). Heather has two mommies. Boston, MA.: Alyson Wonderland,

Impressions

This is a sweet book about the importance of love in a family. Newman delicately approaches the often taboo subject, especially in 1989 when the book was published. She maintains a loving tone throughout the book. The watercolor pictures add to the soft gentle message that is presented. The book does not go in depth into the emotions surrounding same sex families, but it touches on the insecurities that children may have in Heather's situation. Although this book is often thought to be controversial, it shares only positive messages. 

Professional Review

PreS-Gr 2— This is a new edition of the now classic picture book, first published in 1989. The story opens with descriptions of Heather playing with toys in the tall grass behind her house. The child has two of many things including arms, legs, feet, and elbows. “Heather has two pets: a ginger-colored cat named Gingersnap and a big black dog named Midnight. Heather also has two mommies: Mama Jane and Mama Kate.” As Heather enters school for the first time she observes that many of the students in her classroom have unique families. To illustrate, Ms. Molly asks the children to draw pictures of their families. Each drawing displays the differences found within each household, yet as Heather’s teacher comments, “The most important thing about a family is that all the people in it love each other.” The author’s text is simple yet powerful in its ability to move readers of all ages. Cornell’s fluid watercolor and gouache illustrations breathe life into this delightful story. Each page is artfully and distinctly rendered to be a visual depiction of the beauty and joy of diversity. VERDICT Readers will be warmed by this glimpse into Heather’s family, whether revisiting the text or experiencing it for the first time.

Moore, C. (2015). Heather has two mommies. School Library Journal, 61(2), 74.

Library Uses

This could be used as part of a banned books display. Other books that would go with this are And Tango Makes Three. It can also be used as a resource for any children with non traditional households. 

Module 9 - Take Me Out of the Bathtub

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Book Summary

Take Me Out of the Bathtub and Other Silly Dilly Songs puts a new spin on classic children's songs. "I've Been Cleaning Up My Bedroom" parodies "I've Been Working on the Railroad." Fourteen children's song are given a zany rewrite from Katz and Catrow.

Written by Alan Katz
Illustrated by David Catrow

APA Reference of Book

Katz, A. (2001). Take me out of the bathtub and other silly dilly songs. New York, NY: Scholastic.

Impressions

This is an enjoyable book for preschool through elementary school. Young students will enjoy reading poetry to the tune of songs that they know well. Parents may struggle with some of the songs if they are not very familiar with the original tunes. The word choices are creative and will make readers laugh. The hilarious and ultra colorful pictures add to the silliness of the poems. The watercolor, colored pencil and ink illustrations fill each double page spread with varying depth and complexity. Overall a great book. The version containing the audio CD will help many enjoy the book to its fullest.  

Professional Review

Gr 3-5 --This hilarious collection goes straight to the heart of playground humor. What made "On Top of Spaghetti" such an integral part of popular culture is what makes these selections so equally successful. Well-known songs like "Take Me Out to the Ballgame," "My Bonnie Lies Over the Ocean," and "I've Been Working on the Railroad" become-with a wink, a poke, and nod--"Take Me Out of the Bathtub," "The Yogurt Flies Straight from My Brother," and "I've Been Cleaning Up My Bedroom." Some of these transformations are so clever that kids will want to burst into song immediately. Imagine your next patron singing, "Oh give me a break/'Cause I made a mistake/And my library book's overdue" to the tune of "Home on the Range." The watercolor illustrations are equally entertaining, with exaggerated features and situations giving them a cartoon look. "Go Go Go to Bed" depicts an exhausted mom slumped in a chair with toys and a child literally bouncing off the ceiling above her. There's something here to tickle most funny bones.

Marino, J. (2001). Take me out of the bathtub and other silly dilly songs. School Library Journal, 47(4), 132.

Library Uses

It could be used with older students to create their own silly dilly versions of the songs or a song that they like. Students love watching song parodies on YouTube and they will enjoy creating some of their own. 

Module 9 - Fold Me a Poem

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Book Summary

Fold Me a Poem narrates the story of the characters created by the young boy in the illustrations. Many animals are created using origami. Some of the animals interact with each other. Some get injured. Most kids play with their stuffed animals, but this young boy plays with the origami animals that he created.

Written by Kristine O'Connell George.
Illustrated by Lauren Stringer

APA Reference of Book

George, K. O. (2005). Fold me a poem. Orlando, FL: Harcourt.

Impressions

The short poems colorfully enhance the illustrations. The beautiful illustrations start with the endpapers that were created to resemble origami paper. The shading and texture of each picture makes it seem as if each one were really made with paper. Each poem helps identify each animal or their actions. This is a very easy introduction to poetry for young readers. I wish that there were instructions at the end of the book so that the reader would be able to create their own origami animal after reading the book. 

Professional Review

K-Gr 2-- George's 32 brief poems focus on a boy as he folds a series of origami animals and imagines their thoughts and possible activities. Some of the selections exhibit a creative spark, while others tend to take their meaning from the illustrations, which are the real strength of the presentation. The vividly colored acrylics depict the boy actively engaged in play with his creations, and the details that Stringer provides infuse the verses with both energy and humor. Her illustrator's note offers insight into her own efforts to master the art of origami. No patterns or instructions are included, although a useful bibliography is appended to guide those wishing to learn the craft themselves.

Oliff, G. (2005, Mar.). Fold me a poem. School Library Journal, 51(3), 193.

Library Uses

This book could be used to introduce an origami makerspace. After reading the book, the group of students could be led through the creation of an origami figure. Then the supplies could be out for students to use them later at the maker station. 

Module 8 - Magic Tree House Dinosaurs Before Dark

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Book Summary

Jack and Annie happen upon a tree house. not just any tree house, but a magic tree house. While in the tree house looking at one of the many books, Jack wishes to see a pteranodon. All of a sudden Jack and Annie  are transported to the Cretaaceous period where dinosaurs roamed the Earth. The brother and sister duo encounter a friendly pteranodon and some not so friendly dinosaurs.

Written by Mary Pope Osborne
Illustrated by Sal Murdocca

APA Reference of Book

Osborne, M. P. (1992). Dinosaurs before dark. New York, NY: Scholastic.

Impressions

Dinosaurs Before Dark is  a very short beginning chapter book well suited for young children. Even though the plot is very straightforward, the adventures and explorations will appeal to adventurous readers. The book will appeal to boys since the leading character is a boy. Each chapter has a couple of pictures, which makes this a good transition between picture books and larger chapter books. The pictures, although monotone, using shading to create quality images. The book talks about different dinosaur facts, which will appeal to many young readers. A companion nonfiction book is available that builds on the facts presented in this work of fiction. 

Professional Review

Gr 1-3-- This enjoyable time-travel fantasy is a successful beginning chapter book. Jack and his younger sister find a tree house filled with books. When he wishes he could really see the Pteranodon pictured in one of them, it appears at the window. The children have been transported back to the Cretaceous period. They begin to explore and are soon threatened by a Tyrannosaurus. The Pteranodon comes to their rescue, and they figure out enough about the magic that carried them back in time to be able to use it to return home. There is plenty of suspense and magic here, and enough dinosaur information to please science buffs. Characterization is sketchy and older children will find the plot predictable, but readers just past the easy-to-read stage will find it satisfying. It should attract those who devour Ruth Chew's books.

Sherman, L. L. (1992). Dinosaurs before dark. School Library Journal, 38(9), 209.

Library Uses

You can link this book to an informational book on dinosaurs. Students could create pteranodon sculpture using card stock, paint, and clothes pins. Students can then use the informational book to list facts about the pteranodon. 

Module 8 -

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Book Summary

Cam Jansen has a photographic memory. When Cam and her friend Eric help their teacher out with the school carnival, she spots some things that just don't look right. So Cam clicked her mental camera, for which she was given the nickname Cam, so that she could look back on the details later. How could these two keep winning at the dime toss? It was supposed to be nearly impossible to win. Cam uses her mental pictures to help solve the mystery.

Written by David Adler
Illustrated by Susanna Natti

APA Reference of Book

Adler, D. A. (1984). The mystery of the carnival prize. New York, NY: Penguin Publishing.

Impressions

This is a cute beginning chapter book with pictures on every couple of pages. The pictures will help young readers connect to the book, but they are not the strongest pictures. Even though most readers do not have a photographic memory like Cam, they will still be able to relate to her character. The plot provides a good amount of suspense, so readers will be interested in seeing how the mystery is solved. I have to admit that I was curious myself.  As is true with many of the books in the Cam Jansen series, the book ends with a good lesson for readers. 

Professional Review

Gr 2-4 -- Cam Jansen and the Mystery of the Carnival Prize finds the girl with the photographic memory and her friend Eric Chelton solving a mystery at a school carnival. Cam finds it strange that no one can win a prize at the dime toss booth except for a boy and a girl who keep winning again and again, and she shows how the two are using foil-covered slugs and a magnet to cheat. The two are captured as they try to sell the stuffed animals they have won. As always, Adler presents dependable characters within a sturdy format for the younger mystery crowd. 

Natti, S. (1984). Cam Jansen and the Mystery of the Carnival Prize. School Library Journal, 31(4), 98.

Library Uses

This book could be used as a mentor text for students learning to use quotation marks appropriately. Much of this book involves conversations between Cam and Eric, which provides several examples for students. 

Module 7- Baseball Saved Us

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Book Summary

In 1942, "Shorty" and his family were sent to live in an internment camp in the desert. It was hot in the day and cold at night. The man in the tower was always watching behind his dark sunglasses. This just added to the tension that everyone felt while living in these barracks. One day his dad started building a baseball field. Everyone pitched in. For the first time in his life, "Shorty" was not the shortest one on the team. He was able to hit the ball. Things were still hard, but baseball made it easier.

Written by Ken Mochizuki.
Illustrated by Dom Lee.

APA Reference of Book

Mochizuki, K. (1993). Baseball saved us. New York, NY: Lee & Low.

Impressions

This is a historical fiction story that not only conveys facts of the World War II era, but also shows the emotions involved for the Japanese-Americans. Mochizuki's descriptions show the reader that it was awful to move out of their homes and into the barracks. He shows how much it was changing them through the interactions between Shorty's dad and brother. The stories credibility is strong, especially when the describes Shorty sitting alone at a lunch table after returning back home. The illustrations in the book remind readers of the barbed-wire fence and dessert atmosphere. They beautifully capture the shading and tones of both the desert and the characters skin tones. 

Professional Review

Gr 2-4-- After briefly describing the way his family was removed from their home and sent to an internment camp for Japanese Americans during World War II, the narrator, ``Shorty,'' tells how baseball was used as a diversion from the dire situation in which the camp's inhabitants found themselves. After improvising a baseball diamond, uniforms, and equipment, they played games. In one of these contests, the usually weak-hitting Shorty catches a glimpse of one of the ever-present guards and channels his anger toward the man into his swing, resulting in a winning home run. After the war and his return home, he continues to play ball while at the same time being subjected to racial taunts, again refocusing his anger to produce positive results on the diamond. The sport plays a secondary role to the blatant racism depicted in this somber book. The paintings, scratchboard overlaid with oils, effectively reflect the tone of the story. Pair this powerful title with Hamanaka's The Journey (Orchard, 1990). 

Hurlburt, T. S. (1993). Baseball saved us. School Library Journal, 39(6), 84.

Library Uses

This book could be used in the high school library to begin a discussion of how the United States treated the Japanese after the bombing of Pearl Harbor. This could compared to the way that the United States used the Patriot Act to protect us after the tragedies of 9/11.

Module 7 - Here Come the Humpbacks

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Book Summary

Here Come the Humpbacks follows the journey of a mother and her calf as they migrate north for the summer. Readers learn about the perils of the journey as well as the role that the escort whale plays. The book discusses the songs that the whales sing and the food that the whale eats.

Written by April Pulley Sayre

APA Reference of Book

Sayre, A. P. (2013). Here come the humpbacks. Watertown, MA: Charlesbridge.

Impressions

The style of the informational book is story-like. The author paints a picture for readers that add dimension to the pictures provided. The pictures are an appealing balance between realism and impressionism reminiscent of Monet. The book is both informative and entertaining. Enough detail is provided to allow the book to be used as a research reference for younger students, but not to much detail as to bore readers. The way that the author used each facing page to both tell a story and give more detail adds more versatility to the book. The format also allows the book to appeal to a wider age range of students. The left-handed pages could be read aloud to students, while the right-hand pages provide more details.

Professional Review

Gr 1-3--This picture book about a year in the life of a humpback mother and calf is beautifully illustrated in soft charcoal pencil and pastel on sanded paper. A varying perspective--from eye level, below, and above the water level--places the whales in context with their environment and other wildlife. The narrative of the growth and development of the newborn male calf flows on the left side of each spread as he thrives in the warm Caribbean Sea. Brief explanations and information on the recto expand upon the story with factual information. The perils of life and migration are objectively presented, including man-made dangers of pollution and marine traffic and dangers from the humpbacks' fierce natural enemy, the orca, and even other humpbacks. All ends well for the mother and son as they make their way through the dangers to their summer feeding grounds off the coast of New England. The stunning art and well-presented information make this an attractive addition to any collection.

Millhouser, F. E. (2013, Feb.). Here come the humpbacks. School Library Journal, 59(2), 96.

Library Uses

This books would be a good research resource on humpback whales for students in grades 2-4. The level of detail provided is enough to create a good base on the migration of the humpbacks. The facing pages also have different reading levels which provides an additional level of versatility to this research tool. The book can also be used as a look at environmental issues that effect the migration of the humpback whales and how some municipalities have made laws to help preserve the whales migration path and make it safer.

Module 6 - A Big Cheese for the White House

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Book Summary

Cheshire, Massachusetts was known for their cheese. People came from all over to buy it. But then, there was competition in Connecticut. Norton, Connecticut was trying new things and being noticed by others, including President Jefferson. Cheshire's Elder John Leland had an idea that would ensure that Cheshire cheese was back on top. He got the whole town together to make a huge wheel of cheese and deliver it to the White House.

Written by Candace Fleming
Illustrated by S. D. Schindler

APA Reference of Book

Fleming, C. (1999). A big cheese for the White House. New York, NY: DK Publishing.

Impressions

This is a very cute historical fiction story. I was not sure I wanted to read a story about cheese, but this is a cute story about making things happen. The interactions between the Elder John and Phineas are very easy to relate to. I enjoy that the process for making cheese is discussed as they problem solve along the way. The illustrations really drive home the idea that this is historical fiction for readers. Without the pictures I think that readers would be even more likely to think the story is not based on facts, because they cannot relate to making cheese from milk. 

Professional Review

K-Gr 4-A little-known piece of American history is at the center of this humorous story. When the people of Cheshire, MA, hear that President Jefferson is eating cheddar made in Norton, CT, instead of their own, they decide to do something about it. Against all odds, they make a 1235-pound wheel of cheese and ship it to the president, who declares it the best that he has ever tasted, puts it in the record books, and serves it until it finally goes bad. Using a cast of amusing characters that include little Humphrey Crock, who is good at arithmetic; Elder John, the real-life mastermind of the scheme; and the doubting Phineas Dobbs, who scoffs every step of the way, Fleming makes this strange bit of history interesting and funny. Each of the characters has a distinct personality, and the watercolor and pen-and-ink illustrations bring all of them to life. Schindler's detailed, cartoonlike artwork integrates well with the witty text. An author's note separates fact from fiction and explains what happened next. This book would be a great choice for classroom units on history, world records, cheese making, or even on succeeding at something that seems impossible. It's also a good bet for anyone looking to liven up historical fiction collections for the younger set.

Lilien-Harper, A., & Jones, T. E. (1999). A big cheese for the White House. School Library Journal, 45(8), 134.

Library Uses

It's all about the cheese. Cheshire was famous for their cheese. Other places are famous for thier cheeses also. Students can use the computer to determine where various cheeses, such as feta and brie are from. 

Module 6: Barefoot-Escape the Underground Railroad

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Book Summary

In this historical fiction tale, Barefoot has escaped his sentence of slavery on a plantation and is fleeing into the night. Along his journey, he is guided by the noise of the animals. The frog's ribbitt tells him there is water near. The heron's cry alerted him that the Heavy Boots were approaching him. The mosquitos played the largest role of all in allowing him to find the cabin with the quilt hanging out.

Written by Pamela Duncan Edwards
Illustrated by Henry Cole

APA Reference of Book

Edwards, P. D. (1997). Barefoot: Escape on the Underground Railroad. New York, NY: Harper Collins.

Impressions

This is a moving book about a man only named Barefoot. Edwards tells the story so well that readers feel like they are in the grass with Barefoot. I was surprised that the book talked about such a short portion of the Underground Railroad. In sticking to such a short portion, Edwards was able to show readers that there were dangers every step of the way. The word choice activates the readers sense of hearing: Barefoot, Heavy Boots. All the dark colors immerse the readers into the darkness that Barefoot experienced. Even with the dark colors, every detail is clear. This builds on the word choice to further immerse the reader into Barefoot's journey. 

Professional Review

K-Gr 3 Another outstanding collaboration by the duo responsible for Some Smug Slug (Harper, 1996). Here the tone is serious. The Barefoot is an escaping slave whose flight is aided by the wild animals of forest and swamp. The frog's croak guides him to water, while a nesting squirrel leads him to cover himself with leaves. When the Heavy Boots slave catchers draw near, mosquitoes swarm heavily around them and a deer leads them away into the forest. Fireflies light the Barefoot's way to a house on the Underground Railroad and safety while the animals are still alert for another Barefoot. Edwards's spare text builds suspense while Cole's paintings gradually reveal more of the slave and his pursuers. At first, only feet are seen. Though more and more of his body is depicted, it is only in the penultimate double-page spread that readers see the young man's face. Cole's nocturnal illustrations are suitably dark yet they are not difficult to see, and they use light effectively to focus viewers' eyes on specific parts of the picture. Readers will feel as if they are in the swamp with the runaway, their eyes gradually becoming aware of nuances of the scene as they adjust to the darkness. The generous-sized, handsome white typeface is easy to read against the dark background. Teachers will want to use this title with such books as F. N. Monjo's The Drinking Gourd (Harper, 1970) when teaching about slavery and the Underground Railroad, while in public libraries Barefoot will be perfect for programs on African-American history.

Sherman, L. L., & Scott, A. C. (1997). Barefoot: Escape on the Underground Railroad. School Library Journal, 43(2), 75.

Library Uses

This book could be used as part of African American History Month. The Underground Railroad is not always covered in the classroom, so this would be a great addition in the library. This book would pair well with a biography on Harriet Tubman. 

Module 5 - The Ender's Game

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Book Summary

Earth is at war with a race called Buggers. With an inevitable third invasion on the horizon, the international fleet establish a battle school for children.  Andrew Ender Wiggins is chosen to attend the battle school though his two siblings were both deemed unfit for the program. Ender quickly advances through the ranks through war games and takes on a squad of young recruits who he develops into the only undefeated squadron. Believing the training exercises to be simulations Ender along with his battle school friends command many battles against the buggers.  Ender's final test is a simulation against the entire bugger fleet. After the test Ender is told that he had not been commanding simulation but actually battles against the buggers.  Ender falls into deep depression and decides to reside on the planet Endos.  On Endos he finds the egg of a queen bugger and knows he must find a new home for the bugger civilization.

Written by Orson Scott Card.

APA Reference of Book

Card, O.S. (1985). Ender's game. New York, NY: T. Doherty Associates, c1985.

Impressions

Ender's Game is a science fiction book for mature high school students. Card takes readers along on Ender's journey as he realizes that there are consequences to all actions even if they are not intended. When Ender realizes that his need to win has caused the loss of many lives and an entire race of aliens, a strong moral conflict arises. Readers can relate to his internal struggles of good vs evil.  Enders Game paints the picture of a bleak future for Earth and our ruthless nature but it also finalizes with an image of hope for righting wrongs and becoming a better person. 

Professional Review

Gr 7 Up --This new young adult edition of the Hugo and Nebula Award-winning classic sci-fi novel by Orson Scott Card, winner of the Margaret A. Edwards Award for outstanding lifetime contribution to writing for teens, includes an original postscript by the author in which he discusses the origins of the novel is all about leadership. The novel asks: What does it take to successfully lead men into battle? The buggers have invaded Earth twice. The last time mankind survived only because of the brilliance of Mazer Rackham, commander of the International Fleet. Years later, a third invasion is feared and a new commander is sought. Ender Wiggin is only six years old when he is plucked to succeed Rackham and sent to the space station Battle School. He is isolated, ridiculed, bullied, and persecuted--but he survives and thrives. Using his astonishing intelligence, the boy learns to be a top-notch solider and, despite his youth and small stature, is quickly promoted up the ranks. By the age of 12, Ender learns the art of command and earns the respect and fear of his fellow soldiers. This audio version was created in celebration of the 20th anniversary of the novel and it's a gem. The audiobook is narrated by a full cast. Stefan Rudniki is particularly good as Ender. Despite Ender's age, this is not a children's novel. Its profound themes (and mild profanity) call for intelligent teens who appreciate a complex novel.

Melgaard, T. (2008). Ender's Game. School Library Journal, 54(12), 70.

Library Uses

Students could compare and contrast the book with the movie that was released in 2013. They could be asked to pay attention to major elements were changed. 

Module 5 - The Lightning Thief

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Book Summary

Percy Jackson had no idea that he was special. That all changed when he was 12 years old. His mother took him to a cabin to try to protect him, but that is not enough. He had to move into a Camp Half-Blood where he meets other demigods. Percy goes on a quest that takes him across the country and into the depths of the earth in order to stop a war from breaking out between the Gods.

Written by Rick Riordan

APA Reference of Book

Riordan, R. (2005). The lightning thief. New York, NY: Hyperion Books for Children.

Impressions

This book brings Greek mythology into a modern context. The book is told from the perspective of Percy, which allows readers to relate to his struggles. Riordan provided enough detail to explain how characters such as Grover the satyr were able to go unnoticed in the human world. The book flows very well and it is written in such a way that allows readers to picture each scene. Even though I have never liked mythology, I found the book very interesting. The characters were painted in a real relatable way that made me feel invested in knowing if Percy would succeed or not. 

Professional Review

Gr 5-9 --An adventure-quest with a hip edge. At first glance, Perseus Jackson seems like a loser (readers meet him at a boarding school for troubled youth), but he's really the son of Poseidon and a mortal woman. As he discovers his heritage, he also loses that mother and falls into mortal danger. The gods (still very active in the 21st-century world) are about to go to war over a lost thunderbolt, so Percy and sidekicks Grover (a young satyr) and Annabeth (daughter of Athena) set out to retrieve it. Many close calls and monster-attacks later, they enter Hades's realm (via L.A.). A virtuoso description of the Underworld is matched by a later account of Olympus (hovering 600 floors above Manhattan). There's lots of zippy review of Greek myth and legend, and characters like Medusa, Procrustes, Charon, and the Eumenides get updates. Some of the Labors of Heracles or Odysseus's adventures are recycled, but nothing seems stale, and the breakneck pace keeps the action from being too predictable. Percy is an ADHD, wise-cracking, first-person narrator. Naturally, his real quest is for his own identity. Along the way, such topics as family, trust, war, the environment, dreams, and perceptions are raised. There is subtle social critique for sophisticated readers who can see it. Although the novel ends with a satisfying conclusion (and at least one surprise), it is clear that the story isn't over. The 12-year-old has matured and is ready for another quest, and the villain is at large. Readers will be eager to follow the young protagonist's next move.

Lothrop,P. D. (2005, Aug.). The lightning thief. School Library Journal, 51(8), 134.

Library Uses

This is a great book for your upper elementary and middle school students who like adventure. It is a good introduction to fantasy books. It has wonderful tie-ins to Greek mythology. Students could compare and contrast the depictions of the gods in classic mythology tales with The Lightning Thief.

Module 4 - Drums, Girls and Dangerous Pie

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Book Summary

8th grade is tough enough without your whole world being turned upside down. And that is exactly what happened to Steven, a skinny geeky boy who loved to bang the drums. Steven has a hard time focusing on school when his little brother is diagnosed with cancer. His mother and brother are shuttling back and forth between home and the hospital for treatments. His dad is extra stressed about finances. His only refuge is his drum set. He practices extra long and hard to avoid thinking about all that is going on. The good news is that he has gotten really good. If only he was able to show everyone at the big concert.

Written by Jordan Sonnenblick

APA Reference of Book

Sonnenblick, J. (2005). Drums, girls & dangerous pie. New York, NY: Scholastic.

Impressions

This is a great realistic fiction book for middle school aged boys or girls. Stephen is easy to relate to for many students since he is a little geeky and doesn't always deal well with girls. It is nice to see a book that allows all characters to be human. Both Stephen and his parents make mistakes along their journey, but they are able to get passed them. Sonnenblick shows how Stephen's character evolves throughout the story by sharing not only character conversations, but also Stephen's thoughts. Readers are drawn into his life and want to know if he will be able to dig himself out of trouble without burdening his parents with his issues. 

Professional Review

Gr 6-9-- On stage for his eighth-grade graduation, Steven recalls the past school year during which his five-year-old brother, Jeffrey, was diagnosed with and treated for leukemia. Steven is an avid drummer, journal writer, and generally a good student. But the pressures of dealing with Jeff's illness stresses his entire family as his school-teacher mom takes a leave to care for him, Dad withdraws, and Steven stops doing homework. Renee Albert is the object of his lust, while Annette, the piano player in jazz band, gradually becomes beautiful in his eyes. Steven's frequent faux pas seem belabored early in the book, but they do eventually work to show him to be an admirable fellow who grows in his ability to deal with others, including Renee and Annette, the school counselor, his parents, and Jeff. The book does not miss a single emotional beat, taking every opportunity to demonstrate that Lurlene McDaniel has no stranglehold on jerking tears as Steven details the progress of leukemia's inexorable attack. If the young characters sometimes speak beyond their years and if Steven's wise-ass voice is initially annoying, it is also fresh, energetic, and consistent, becoming more likable as the novel progresses. One stylistic device seemed unnecessary and distracting: characters' speech is indicated by italics, while quotation marks are used to set off Steven's inner thoughts and for special emphasis.

Shoemaker, J. (2004, Oct). Drums, girls & dangerous pie. School Library Journal, 50(10), 178.

Library Uses

This is a great resource for students who have a sibling battling cancer. It can also be used to show students how to be there for others even when times are difficult. 

Module 4: Counting by 7s

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Book Summary

Counting by 7s follows along with Willow as her life is tragically ripped out from under her in one fail swoop and as she becomes family with relative strangers. Willow is a 12 year old genius who out performs her peers and the expectations of her teachers. When she scores a perfect score on a standardized test her teacher sends her to meet with the district counselor because she must have cheated to score that well. An encounter with a an older girl at the counseling session fascinates Willow and provides her with the only connection she will have that will keep her from being sent to a group home.

Written by Holly Goldberg Sloan

APA Reference of Book

Sloan, H. G. (2013). Counting by 7s. New York, NY: Penguin Group.

Impressions

This book is a hard book to read only because it is hard to fathom a young girl losing both of her parents at the same time and leaving her with no family. Sloan does a wonderful job of painting a picture of Willow as she deals with this unfathomable amount of pain and loss. The writing allows readers to relate to Willow, even though Willow herself has a hard time relating to others. This is a good read to show students that you can come out of a very dark time. It takes Willow much time and support to do this, but she is able to be happy again. The major dramatic question leads readers to wonder what will happen to Willow. Will she have to go to a group home? Sloan keeps readers interested in the plot of the story in a way that keeps readers wondering how the counselor, nail salon owner and taxi cab driver can possibly come together to save Willow. 

Professional Review

Gr 5-8--Twelve-year-old Willow Chase lived with her adoptive parents in Bakersfield, California. There in the midst of the high desert, she grew a garden in her backyard, her sanctuary. She was excited about starting a new school, hoping this time she might fit in, might find a friend. Willow had been identified in preschool as highly gifted, most of the time causing confusion and feelings of ineptness in her teachers. Now at her new school she is accused of cheating because no one has ever finished the state proficiency test in just 17 minutes, let alone gotten a perfect score. Her reward is behavioral counseling with Dell Duke, an ineffectual counselor with organizational and social issues of his own. She does make a friend when Mai Nguyen brings her brother, Quang-ha, to his appointment, and their lives begin to intertwine when Willow's parents are killed in an auto accident. For the second time in her life she is an orphan, forced to find a "new normal." She is taken in temporarily by Mai's mother, who must stay ahead of Social Services. While Willow sees herself as just an observer, trying to figure out the social norms of regular family life, she is actually a catalyst for change, bringing together unsuspecting people and changing their lives forever. The narration cleverly shifts among characters as the story evolves. Willow's philosophical and intellectual observations contrast with Quang-ha's typical teenage boy obsessions and the struggles of a Vietnamese family fighting to live above the poverty level. Willow's story is one of renewal, and her journey of rebuilding the ties that unite people as a family will stay in readers' hearts long after the last page.

Ashton, C. (2013, Sept 1). Counting by 7s. School Library Journal, 59(9), 148.

Library Uses

This book can be used to talk to students about how they cope with stress. When Willow got stressed at school she counted by 7s. What are some other ways that we can deal with stress? A display could be created to allow students and teachers to add their stress relievers to the board. This would create a good resource for students to see how others relieve their stress. 

Module 3: Shiloh

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Book Summary

Marty Preston is an 11 year old boy who is out of school for the summer. He likes to take his .22 rifle out into the woods to shoot it. Now Marty absolutely does not agree with hunting. He shoots apples in the trees. After an encounter with Judd Travers, he grows attached to one of Judd's hunting dogs that Judd does not treat very well. When Shiloh comes to live with Marty and his family, his family doesn't know. Marty keeps Shiloh hidden, which goes against his parents orders. When Judd finds out that Shiloh is at the Preston house, he is not happy.

Written by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor

Winner of the 1992 Newbery Medal

APA Reference of Book

 Naylor, P. R. (1991). Shiloh. New York, NY : Atheneum.

Impressions

Although I did find the book to be well written, I was not able to relate to the story. The small-town country location is a contrast to the big city that I live in. I can relate to the family dynamics that Naylor creates. I also enjoyed the internal struggles that Marty experienced. These were big world issues that we all face, such as deciding when you need to go against what you are being told in order to do what is right. I think that young readers will be able to relate to the love of a pet or other animal.

Professional Review

Gr 4-6--Marty Preston, 11, is a country boy who learns that things are often not what they seem, and that adults are not always "fair" in their dealings with other people. Marty finds a stray dog that seems to be abused and is determined to keep it at all costs. Because his family is very poor, without money to feed another mouth, his parents don't want any pets. Subsequently, there is a lot of conflict over the animal within the family and between Marty and Judd Travers, the dog's owner. Honesty and personal relations are both mixed into the story. Naylor has again written a warm, appealing book. However, readers may have difficulty understanding some of the first-person narration as it is written in rural West Virginian dialect. Marty's father is a postman--usually one of the better paying positions in rural areas--yet the family is extremely poor. There seems to be an inconsistency here. This title is not up to Naylor's usual high quality.

Kowen, K. E. (1991, Sept 1). Shiloh. School Library Journal, 37(9), 258.

Library Uses

To extend the story of Shiloh, students could be asked to write out instructions for someone else to take care of thier pets. While making instructions, they should be asked to also think about other special things to be done with their pets besides just the basics. Illustrations could also be asked for. 

Module 3: Holes

Module 3: Holes

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Book Summary

Stanley Yelnats is sent to Camp Green Lake, a juvenile detention camp. This is no ordinary detention camp at this camp they put you to work in the hot sun digging holes. The camp warden is searching for hidden treasure in the land that used to be covered by Camp Green Lake. As the book unfolds, readers are able to see how Stanley Yelnats live is intertwined with one of the other kids at the camp and with the hidden treasure itself.

Written by Louis Sachar

APA Reference of Book

 Sachar, L. (1998). Holes. New York, NY : Yearling.

Impressions

This is a book that kids love. Louis Sachar used short chapters to keep the story moving quickly. The characters are easy to relate to even for readers that have never done anything bad enough to be sent to a juvenile detention camp. The descriptive language used allows readers to visualize the camp and the journey that Stanley takes away from the camp. Sachar tells three intertwined stories in alternating chapters in a way that keep readers wanting more. He portrays the school teacher in such a way that readers just have to know how she became Kissing Kate Barlow, one of the most feared outlaws in the West. 

Professional Review

Stanley Yelnats IV has been wrongly accused of stealing a famous baseball player's valued sneakers and is sent to Camp Green Lake, a juvenile detention home where the boys dig holes, live feet deep by live feet across, in the miserable Texas heat. It's just one more piece of bad luck that's befallen Stanley's family for generations as a result et the infamous curse of Madame Zeroni. Overweight Stanley. his hands bloodied from digging, figures that at the end of his sentence, he'll "...either be in great physical condition or else dead." Overcome by the useless work and his own feelings of futility, fellow inmate Zero runs away into the arid, desolate surroundings and Stanley, acting on impulse, embarks on a risky mission to save him. He unwittingly lays Madame Zeroni's curse to rest, finds buried treasure, survives yellow-spotted lizards, and gains wisdom and inner strength from the quirky turns of fate. In the almost mystical progress of their ascent of the rock edifice known as "Big Thumb," they discover their own invaluable worth and unwavering Friendship. Each of the boys is painted as a distinct individual through Sachar's deftly chosen words. The author's ability to knit Stanley and Zero's compelling story in and out of a history of intriguing, ancestors is captivating. Stanley's wit, integrity, faith, and wistful innocence will charm readers. A multitude of colorful characters coupled with the skillful braiding of ethnic folklore, American legend, and contemporary issues ix a brilliant achievement. There is no question, kids will love Holes.

Follos, A. (1998, Sept 1). Holes. School Library Journal, 44(9), 210.

Library Uses

This book can be used as part of an award winning book display since it is a Newbery winner. It could also be used to reinforce the value of friendship over personal gain. 

Assignment A: Book Trailers

Ivy & Bean by Annie Barrows and Sophie Blackall

A Bad Case of Stripes by David Shannon

The Man Who Walked Between the Towers by Mordicai Gerstein

For a previous class: Grace for President by Kate Dipucchio

Module 2: Smoky Night

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Book Summary

Smoky Night looks at a night of rioting in Los Angeles from the perspective of a child. The riots are happening on the street below Daniel’s window. The story follows David as he tries to make sense of the looting as well as his family’s relationship with their neighbor Mrs. Kim. After having to evacuate their building due to fire, Daniel’s family and Mrs. Kim are able to overcome their differences.

Written by Eve Bunting and illustrated by David Diaz

APA Reference of Book

 Bunting, E. (1994). Smoky night. San Diego, CA : Harcourt Brace.

Impressions

I was blown away by both the story and pictures of this book. I read this book shortly after the recent unrest in Baltimore and I was struck by the applicability of this book to events of today.  The story makes you feel like you are experiencing the riots right along with Daniel and his family. I found the pictures stunning, with the images of the characters reminiscent of paintings of jazz musicians. I loved the textures of the pictures and the way that the story was woven into each one. Together the bold images with the complex textures help reinforce the tension of the events unfolding in the story.

Professional Review

Ages 5-9. Bunting says she wrote this story after the Los Angeles riots made her wonder about what riots mean to the children who live through them. A boy and his cat look down from the window at people rioting in the streets below. His mother explains that rioting can happen when people get angry: "They want to smash and destroy. They don't care anymore what's right and wrong." The boy says that they look angry, but they look happy too. He sees them looting Mrs. Kim's grocery store across the street; his mother never building burns, and everyone has to rush out to the shelter. The boy's cat is gone, and so is Mrs. Kim's cat, but a kind fire fighter finds both animals; they were hiding together. Then Bunting overstates her message: maybe the people, like the cats, need to get to know each other, so the boy's mother and Mrs. Kim agree to visit. Diaz's art is powerful - pulsating and crowded; part street mural, part urban collage. In each double-page spread, the background is a photograph of found objects and debris in a variety of textures and jagged shapes. On the right-hand page is an acrylic painting like a view through a heavy window, with thick lines and bright neon colors showing a multicultural cast. In fine contrast, the story is told quietly from the child's point of view, safe with his mother despite the fear, reaching out to the neighborhood community within the chaos.

Rochman, H. (1994, Mar. 1). Smoky night. Booklist, 90(13), 1267.

Library Uses

Smoky Night can be used to help students understand the racial tensions in our country and the importance of accepting others from different cultures. After reading the story, ask students how this book relates to their experiences or things that they have seen on TV. Work with students to complete a Venn diagram comparing themselves with a picture of a person from a different culture. Discuss with students the value in getting along with people of different cultures.

Module 2: The Man Who Walked Between the Towers

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Book Summary

In this non-fiction picture book, readers follow the story of Philippe Petit, a street performer, who was always looking for a challenge. Upon coming to New York City, during the construction of the World Trade Center, he set his sights on walking on a tightrope between the Twin Towers. The story follows Philippe as he and friends set up the tightrope. Then readers will get to walk across the wire and back again.

Written and illustrated by Mordicai Gerstein.

APA Reference of Book

Gerstein, M. (2003). The man who walked between the towers. Brookfield, CT: Roaring Brook Press.

Impressions

I was mesmerized by the high-wire antics of Philippe. I didn’t believe that it would be possible when he held up a wire and imagined walking between the Twin Towers. Since younger students might not be able to visualize the distance between two buildings that are no longer standing, Gerstein used pull-out pages that allow readers to see both the distance between the towers and the height above the ground. The colorful illustrations have an almost mythical quality that allow readers to connect emotionally to the story. I am captivated by one image in particular: the scene with the crowd, including a police officer, pointing up to the top of the towers. I cannot look at the picture without thinking back to September 11.

Professional Review

A spare recounting of Philippe Petit's daring 1974 wire walk between the Twin Towers depicts him as a street performer who defies authority to risk his feat, is arrested, and then sentenced to perform for the children of New York. At the conclusion, on the only non-illustrated page are the stark words, "Now the towers are gone," followed by the changed skyline and finally by a skyline on which are etched the ghost-like shapes of the towers as memory of the buildings and of Petit's exploit. At the heart are the spreads of Petit on the narrow wire, so far above the city that Earth's curve is visible. Two ingenious gatefolds draw readers' eyes into the vertiginous sweep of wirewalker--sky and city below. Unparalleled use of perspective and line--architectural verticals opposed to the curve of wires and earth--underscore disequilibrium and freedom. In a story that's all about balance, the illustrations display it exquisitely in composition. Readers of all ages will return to this again and again for its history, adventure, humor, and breathtaking homage to extraordinary buildings and a remarkable man. (Picture book/nonfiction. 5+)

The man who walked between the towers. (2003, August 1). Kirkus Reviews, (15). Retrieved from https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/mordicai-gerstein/the-man-who-walked-between-the-towers/

Library Uses

This is a good book to introduce discussions about the events on September 11. There are also math connections that can be made. The first page of the book tells readers how tall the towers were. Students could first translate the text into numerals. Then students could research the height of other tall buildings around the world. Depending on the age of the students, the buildings could be put in order from shortest to tallest, pairs of building heights could be written using inequality symbols or subtraction could be used to find the differences in building heights. 

Module 1: Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day

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Book Summary

Alexander wakes up knowing that today is not going to be a good day. Nothing seems to go his way, not at home, not at school and not at his dad’s office. Everywhere he looks, something horrible is happening to him.

Written by Judith Viorst and illustrated by Ray Cruz.

APA Reference of Book

Viorst, J. (1972). Alexander and the terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day. New York, NY: Atheneum.

Impressions

I enjoy this book because it describes how many kids feel at one time or another. Sometimes it feels like nothing is going their way, but as Alexander’s mom says, “some days are like that.” I like that this is not a feel good story, but instead is a book to which many kids can relate. It is hard being a kid after all. Although the illustrations are black and white drawings, the use of lines creates depth and dimension of the characters. It creates a different feel than merely shading.

Professional Review

Of all the books out there that deal with schadenfreude, none do it quite so well as Alexander.  Now there’s a kid who just cannot win.  He’s the Charlie Brown of picture books.  If he isn’t losing his cash in Alexander, Who Used to Be Rich Last Sunday then he’s protesting a new living situation (not in Australia) in Alexander, Who’s Not (Do You Hear Me? I Mean It!) Going to Move. Of course he started life in this book where everything that could possibly go wrong does.  The perfect antidote to any adult that claims that childhood is one sweet, blissful, stress free ride of innocence and carefree days.

Bird, E. (2012, June 18). Top 100 picture books #8: Alexander and the terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day by Judith Viorst, illustrated by Ray Cruz. Retrieved from http://blogs.slj.com/afuse8production/2012/06/18/top-100-picture-books-8-alexander-and-the-terrible-horrible-no-good-very-bad-day-by-judith-viorst-illustrated-by-ray-cruz/

Library Uses

This book could be used as a lead-in to writing apology letters. It is important for students to look at how their actions can affect others. Writing apology letters allows students to learn how to apologize to someone, as well as letter writing format. 

Module 1: We Are in a Book

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Book Summary

Gerald and Piggie are at it again. Gerald is nervous when Piggie discovers that they are being watched. As usual, Piggie is able to convince Gerald that there is no need to be scared. Then the two have fun when they realize that by being in the book, they have control over the readers.

Written and illustrated by Mo Willems.

APA Reference of Book

Willems, M. (2010). We are in a book! New York, NY: Hyperion.

Impressions

I enjoyed this book and the simple, yet funny concept that it shared. The illustrations conveyed a variety of emotions, including those on the flyleaf. The simple illustrations allow kids to quickly move through the pages without fear of missing little details, which is great because they will want to read as fast as they can to find out what happens next. Elephant and Piggie encourage kids to look at someone from a new perspective: What would it feel like to be inside a book and realize that you are being watched? The use of simple words in silly ways will have both adults and kids laughing. I was happy to agree when my children wanted to Gerald’s last page request.  

Professional Review

In their latest pairing, Elephant and Piggie are finally ready to get meta. Realizing that their trademark blank background is, in fact, a page, the duo has a blast convincing the reader to say funny things out loud--until Piggie mentions that the book will soon end. Cue Elephant's existential crisis: "WHEN WILL THE BOOK END!?!" From there on, it's a cute--but never too heady--play on the physical object that the reader is holding, including a bit where Piggie appears to flip the pages forward to get a sense of how much time they have left. Willems' satisfying (if self-serving) solution? Read it again!

Kraus, D. (2010, September 15). We are in a book! Booklist, 107(2), 71.

Library Uses

This book can be used to talk with young students about the features of a fiction book. It can also be used to discuss the climax and conclusion of a story. It would be interesting to pair up students and ask them to write from a perspective that they may not have considered before. For instance, what would it be like if the fish in the aquarium think when they are being looked at by people outside the glass?