Body of Evidence

Brown, J. (2006). Body of Evidence. Crime Files: Four-Minute Forensic Mysteries. New York: Apple Paperbacks. ISBN: 9780439769341

· Plot Summary
A series of four-minute mysteries bring tweens into the realm of forensics and crime scene investigation, without much of the adult content found on shows like CSI or Eleventh Hour. There is a group of base characters, each with their own distinct personalities, and specialties. In terms of what actually happens in this field, these mysteries are actually more factual than the popular television programs.

· Critical Evaluation
A good starting-off point for tweens interested in forensics and crime scenes. Reads as fiction, with interesting plot twists in some stories to keep the book entertaining.

· Reader’s Annotation
Ideal for tweens that enjoy shows on the Discovery Channel or The Learning Channel, and lovers of true crime.

· Information about the author
Jeremy Brown lives in Michigan, and runs a haunted house when he isn't writing.

· Genre
Fiction

· Curriculum Ties
Biology
Chemistry

· Booktalking Ideas
CSI and forensics as careers.
True crime in the media.

· Reading Level/Interest Age
Grades 6-8/Ages 11-13

· Challenge Issues
Crime themes may be sources of contention with some parents. Pointing out that the language is clean, there are no adult situations, and the science is accurate may help to lessen the objections.

· Why did you include this book in the titles you selected?
I am a fan of forensics, and have been following programs on true crime since I was a tween. I've taken a couple of forensics courses, and my daughter seems to be interested in the field as well. She has always been interested in math and science, so I thought this was ideal for drawing her into a possible future career.

Tales of the Greek Heroes

Green, R.L. (2009). Tales of the Greek Heroes. (3rd ed.). London: Puffin Classics. ISBN: 0141325283

· Plot Summary
Nineteen of the greatest myths in Greek literature, adapted for reading by tweens and young adults. Among the chapters included are the stories of Prometheus, Heracles, the Golden Apple, Theseus, and the Fall of Troy. Each tale begins with a poem relevant to the tale about to be told, though not all are a part of the original Greek literature, several being poems inspired by the myths. Also includes: a list of Greek deities, a map of Greece with important features from the myths labeled, a list of characters from the legends, a section on ideas to consider and activities, and a glossary of important terms.

· Critical Evaluation
A fantastic introduction to Greek legends, particularly for reluctant readers that may otherwise never absorb the material because of its length, language or an idea of the material being too antiquated for interest. Added material is helpful, especially the idea and activity sections.

· Reader’s Annotation
Abbreviated versions of Greek myths, and materials beneficial for further research.

· Information about the author
R.L. Green was born in Norwich, England in 1918, but lived with his family in the home in Oxford that they had owned for over 900 years. Sickly during his childhood, he spent a great deal of time in the library, and he enjoyed the books on myths and legends. He was a member of the Inklings Club, a group that also included C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. Green died in London at the age of sixty-nine.

· Genre
Myths
Fantasy

· Curriculum Ties
Literature
Greek

· Booktalking Ideas
Famous myths and legends in Greek history.
Influence of the hero model on self perception.

· Reading Level/Interest Age
Grades 6-7/Ages 11-12

· Why did you include this book in the titles you selected?
I discovered Greek myths in the fourth grade, because my teacher had just returned from a vacation in Greece and decided to do a curriculum unit on it. Since my daughter was beginning to learn them in her own classes this year, I purchased this book for her.