Dash, J. (1996). We Shall Not Be Moved: The Women's Factory Strike of 1909. New York: Scholastic, Inc. ISBN:0590484095
· Plot Summary
By 1909, one in five factory workers was female, most of them young, unmarried, Jewish women. In their own homelands women of the time ran small businesses and took care of their families, while the men spent the majority of their hours in religious study. When religious persecution and poverty caused many of these families to flee to America, there was seldom money to be used for setting up a business of their own, so it was necessary to enter the factors to bring in wages. This text describes the working conditions of the "Shirtwaist Girls" and the troubles they faced, particular in contrast to the conditions of male workers in the same factories. With straightforward clarity, it explains how these young women were unused to having their voices heard, and that it took a few enterprising individuals like Clara Lemlich and Mary Dreirer to get women to join the Local 25 branch of the International Ladies' Garment Workers Union. As they attempted to reach out to more and more women like them, they were met with repeated acts of violence, a fact that brought them to the attention of wealthy women such as Alva Vanderbilt. After the death of her second husband, Alva had become a suffragette, and these individuals helped factory women in their speeches. Unfortunately, the same wealth that gave the financial security and time to plead their cause also resulted in rifts, the wealthy women with their tea party socials unable to really connect with their much less wealthy sisters. The tide would turn with the arrival of college women, many of them from Vassar, such as Rose Schneiderman, Elsie Cole, and Violet Pike. These women already knew what it was like to live independently, and their bold attitude was contagious. By February of 1910, arbitration succeeded where simple negotiation and outbreaks of hostility had not, a partial settlement reached between Triangle (the factory in New York) and the union leaders. Still, one year later, 146 women were killed by burning or throwing themselves out windows when someone set fire to the building occupied by Triangle.
· Critical Evaluation
An in-depth and precise examination of the circumstances that surrounded the union strikes of 1909. A clear telling of the before and after events that marked this pivotal time in U.S. women's attempts at equality.
· Reader’s Annotation
A good introduction to the topic of women seeking equality in the workforce, and for the right to vote. Short biographies on key figures make for possible subjects of future reading material.
· Information about the Author
Joan Dash was born in Brooklyn, NY and currently lives in Seattle with her husband. She has authored several short stories, two adult non-fiction books, and a title about women that have been honored with a Novel Prize.
· Genre
Non-Fiction
· Reading Level/Interest Age
Grades 7-9/Ages 12-14
· Why did you include this book in the titles you selected?
After reading Johnson's After I Said No, I wanted to know more about the union role in New York's factories. I was a union representative for two years, until pursuing my education, working full-time, and raising my daughter made it impossible to keep up.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Thursday, October 8, 2009
The Salem Witch Trials
Wilson, L.L. (1997). The Salem Witch Trials: How History is Invented Series. Minneapolis: Learner Publications Company. ISBN: 0822548895
· Plot Summary
Whereas most books on this topic simply regale the reader with the events of the trials, the brutal consequences, and horrifying forms of inquisition, this book begins with a detailed explanation of the view of witches in various cultures, and grows from that point. What follows next is lengthy explanation of the witch's place in myth and legend, as well as famous figures that were viewed as witches in their own time. The lifestyle of the Puritans, and the circumstances surrounding the trials of Salem are therefore fit into a worldwide context, rather than seen as isolated events. Information on witness testimony, the laws of the time, and forms of punishment are gone over in detail. From there, the book goes on to discuss the aftermath of the trials, and how they directly effected the public sentiment and lawmaking in America for the next hundred years. A discussion then follows on the rise of interest in the occult, possible causes of the hysteria seen in the Salem case, and rationale for the behavior exhibited by the accusers in the trial. It finishes with information on modern witch hunts (McCarthyism), feminism and witchcraft, Salem as it exists to this day, and modern views on witchcraft (paganism).
· Critical Evaluation
Not a run-of-the-mill recounting of the events and the end results. The background information on cultural viewpoints and the psychology of the past creates a firm foundation for the explanation of Salem's problems, both psychological and societal. With keen insight, the author points out how the limited number of options approved by society may have caused the young accusers to seek an outlet of freedom and power, and how the French and Indian War severely cut the number of available men of marriageable age. Medical theories are also discussed, and make for interesting possibilities.
· Reader’s Annotation
A comprehensive manual on the possible reasons for the events that led to the Salem trials, and a foundation for understanding the view of witchcraft around the globe.
· Information about the author
Lori Lee Wilson graduated with a B.A. in history from Westmont College, in 1977. She credits her grandmother and mother for instilling in her a love of history, and stories based on fact.
· Genre
Non-Fiction
· Curriculum Ties
History
Psychology
Law
Religion
· Booktalking Ideas
Salem Witch Trials and popular sentiment.
Laws in the 17th century.
Puritanism
House on Un-American Activities Committee and blackballing.
Modern Salem
· Reading Level/Interest Age
Grades 5-7/Ages 10-12
· Why did you include this book in the titles you selected?
The facts surrounding the Salem trials has been an interest of mine for years, and this text provided many new insights that I had not seen accumulated in one area before, as well as new subjects for exploration.
· Plot Summary
Whereas most books on this topic simply regale the reader with the events of the trials, the brutal consequences, and horrifying forms of inquisition, this book begins with a detailed explanation of the view of witches in various cultures, and grows from that point. What follows next is lengthy explanation of the witch's place in myth and legend, as well as famous figures that were viewed as witches in their own time. The lifestyle of the Puritans, and the circumstances surrounding the trials of Salem are therefore fit into a worldwide context, rather than seen as isolated events. Information on witness testimony, the laws of the time, and forms of punishment are gone over in detail. From there, the book goes on to discuss the aftermath of the trials, and how they directly effected the public sentiment and lawmaking in America for the next hundred years. A discussion then follows on the rise of interest in the occult, possible causes of the hysteria seen in the Salem case, and rationale for the behavior exhibited by the accusers in the trial. It finishes with information on modern witch hunts (McCarthyism), feminism and witchcraft, Salem as it exists to this day, and modern views on witchcraft (paganism).
· Critical Evaluation
Not a run-of-the-mill recounting of the events and the end results. The background information on cultural viewpoints and the psychology of the past creates a firm foundation for the explanation of Salem's problems, both psychological and societal. With keen insight, the author points out how the limited number of options approved by society may have caused the young accusers to seek an outlet of freedom and power, and how the French and Indian War severely cut the number of available men of marriageable age. Medical theories are also discussed, and make for interesting possibilities.
· Reader’s Annotation
A comprehensive manual on the possible reasons for the events that led to the Salem trials, and a foundation for understanding the view of witchcraft around the globe.
· Information about the author
Lori Lee Wilson graduated with a B.A. in history from Westmont College, in 1977. She credits her grandmother and mother for instilling in her a love of history, and stories based on fact.
· Genre
Non-Fiction
· Curriculum Ties
History
Psychology
Law
Religion
· Booktalking Ideas
Salem Witch Trials and popular sentiment.
Laws in the 17th century.
Puritanism
House on Un-American Activities Committee and blackballing.
Modern Salem
· Reading Level/Interest Age
Grades 5-7/Ages 10-12
· Why did you include this book in the titles you selected?
The facts surrounding the Salem trials has been an interest of mine for years, and this text provided many new insights that I had not seen accumulated in one area before, as well as new subjects for exploration.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Phineas Gage: A Gruesome but True Story About Brain Science
Fleischman, J. (2002). Phineas Gage: A Gruesome but True Story About Brain Science. New York: Houghton Mifflin. ISBN: 0618052526
· Plot Summary
The year is 1848, and railroads are taking over the American West. Phineas Gage, aged twenty-six, works at blasting rock so that new track can be set. After an accident causes his tamping iron to shoot from underneath his left cheekbone, and through the top of his skull, he miraculously survives to tell about it. While by all appearances he is physically recovered, it is noted that his behavior has radically changed. He has changed from a quiet, even-tempered person to one prone to fits of anger and with a propensity to change his mind quite often. Doctors not present in the town where it happened believe that the initial diagnosis is incorrect, until they see the enormous scars that remain on the left side of his face, and on his forehead. Astounded, they search for explanations in an age when nothing is known of the causes of infection or the workings of the brain. As they work, two schools of thought on the topic emerge. One group believes that the entire brain is in charge of all functions, that a jelly-like substance causes the sections to work together toward one goal. The second group believes each function is localized, each section being responsible for a different function; they simply don't understand which section is in charge of what. Tired of the doctors and their theories, Gage leaves the hospital where research has been conducted, and goes to work for P.T. Barnum as an exhibit of the strange. When he tires of this, he takes a ship to Chile and works as a stage coach driver, a job he keeps until 1859. Returning to his family in San Francisco, Gage begins to suffer from seizures, which worsen until his death in 1860.
· Critical Evaluation
A gruesome accident is only the beginning in this fascinating look at how the brain works, medicine of the 19th century, and how the Gage case is still considered a medical miracle. Fleischman's work alternates between the telling of Gage's story, and explanations of the medical knowledge at the time of the accident, and finishes with information on modern diagnostics that have been run on Gage's skull (MRI photos, computer graphics with enhancements to show the angle of the tamping iron's points of entry, etc).
· Reader’s Annotation
A thorough and intriguing look at medicine of the 19th century, and how one man's misfortune has benefited the scientific community for over a hundred and fifty years. A good choice for readers interested in medicine or strange tales. Includes explanations on developing medical theories since the 17th century, the effects of germs, and the advances made in sanitation, surgery, and hospital care.
· Information about the author
John Fleischman is a science writer, has written for the American Society of Cell Biology, Smithsonian, Discover, Muse, and Harvard Medical School. He lives in Ohio with his wife, and their dog, Psyche.
· Genre
Non-Fiction
· Curriculum Ties
Biology
Anatomy
· Booktalking Ideas
Medical miracles and their influence on modern medicine.
Medicine of the 19th-21st centuries.
Anatomy of the brain and how it functions.
· Reading Level/Interest Age
Grades 6-8/Ages 11-13
· Why did you include this book in the titles you selected?
I am a huge fan of shows on The Learning Channel and The Discovery Channel, especially whose involving surgical procedures or the diagnosis of strange illnesses. This book was of the sort that might easily fit into one of their programs.
· Plot Summary
The year is 1848, and railroads are taking over the American West. Phineas Gage, aged twenty-six, works at blasting rock so that new track can be set. After an accident causes his tamping iron to shoot from underneath his left cheekbone, and through the top of his skull, he miraculously survives to tell about it. While by all appearances he is physically recovered, it is noted that his behavior has radically changed. He has changed from a quiet, even-tempered person to one prone to fits of anger and with a propensity to change his mind quite often. Doctors not present in the town where it happened believe that the initial diagnosis is incorrect, until they see the enormous scars that remain on the left side of his face, and on his forehead. Astounded, they search for explanations in an age when nothing is known of the causes of infection or the workings of the brain. As they work, two schools of thought on the topic emerge. One group believes that the entire brain is in charge of all functions, that a jelly-like substance causes the sections to work together toward one goal. The second group believes each function is localized, each section being responsible for a different function; they simply don't understand which section is in charge of what. Tired of the doctors and their theories, Gage leaves the hospital where research has been conducted, and goes to work for P.T. Barnum as an exhibit of the strange. When he tires of this, he takes a ship to Chile and works as a stage coach driver, a job he keeps until 1859. Returning to his family in San Francisco, Gage begins to suffer from seizures, which worsen until his death in 1860.
· Critical Evaluation
A gruesome accident is only the beginning in this fascinating look at how the brain works, medicine of the 19th century, and how the Gage case is still considered a medical miracle. Fleischman's work alternates between the telling of Gage's story, and explanations of the medical knowledge at the time of the accident, and finishes with information on modern diagnostics that have been run on Gage's skull (MRI photos, computer graphics with enhancements to show the angle of the tamping iron's points of entry, etc).
· Reader’s Annotation
A thorough and intriguing look at medicine of the 19th century, and how one man's misfortune has benefited the scientific community for over a hundred and fifty years. A good choice for readers interested in medicine or strange tales. Includes explanations on developing medical theories since the 17th century, the effects of germs, and the advances made in sanitation, surgery, and hospital care.
· Information about the author
John Fleischman is a science writer, has written for the American Society of Cell Biology, Smithsonian, Discover, Muse, and Harvard Medical School. He lives in Ohio with his wife, and their dog, Psyche.
· Genre
Non-Fiction
· Curriculum Ties
Biology
Anatomy
· Booktalking Ideas
Medical miracles and their influence on modern medicine.
Medicine of the 19th-21st centuries.
Anatomy of the brain and how it functions.
· Reading Level/Interest Age
Grades 6-8/Ages 11-13
· Why did you include this book in the titles you selected?
I am a huge fan of shows on The Learning Channel and The Discovery Channel, especially whose involving surgical procedures or the diagnosis of strange illnesses. This book was of the sort that might easily fit into one of their programs.
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Jacob Have I Loved
Paterson, K. (1980). Jacob Have I Loved. New York: Scholastic, Inc.
· Plot Summary
Sara Louise is the elder twin, but has always lived in the shadow of her sister, the beautiful Caroline. It is Caroline that possesses the perfect voice, the poise, and radiates in such a way that everyone adores her. She is the favorite of their parents and their grandmother, all of whom with Louise struggles to find a connection. When Caroline even seems to befriend Louise's crush, a much older man of seventy years, the line is drawn in the sand. It is Louise's grandmother that uses the Biblical quote from which the title of the novel comes, referring to the relationship between the twins Jacob and Esau. She alone takes note of the animosity Louise feels for her sister, even as her mind begins to deteriorate in ways that prompt her to lash out at Louise's mother. It is not until most of her family has gone, and Louise turns to medicine in the hills of Kentucky, that she finally truly comes into her own.
· Critical Evaluation
Excellent example of the way family members can sometimes turn against one another, even inadvertently, leaving certain others with a sense of deprivation and despair. The feelings Louise experiences for the Captain, while destined to not be returned, make for poignant reading.
· Reader’s Annotation
Wonderful historical fiction, without the need to become completely immersed in the past. Paterson brings the Chesapeake Bay area to life, and we can feel the sting of hurricane storms as she describes them. The relationships, while not always pretty, are genuine.
· Information about the author
Katherine Paterson has been award the Newberry Medal, and two National Book Awards. She was born in China, the daughter of missionaries, but received her master's degree in Richmond, VA.
· Genre
Fiction
· Curriculum Ties
WWII History
· Booktalking Ideas
First love and its effect on tween development.
Interactions between twins in literature.
· Reading Level/Interest Age
Grades 4-8/Ages 9-13
· Why did you include this book in the titles you selected?
I chose this title because it is considered a classic in the young adult category, but I never read it when I was in the age group. The content turned out to be much different than I expected, and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it.
· Plot Summary
Sara Louise is the elder twin, but has always lived in the shadow of her sister, the beautiful Caroline. It is Caroline that possesses the perfect voice, the poise, and radiates in such a way that everyone adores her. She is the favorite of their parents and their grandmother, all of whom with Louise struggles to find a connection. When Caroline even seems to befriend Louise's crush, a much older man of seventy years, the line is drawn in the sand. It is Louise's grandmother that uses the Biblical quote from which the title of the novel comes, referring to the relationship between the twins Jacob and Esau. She alone takes note of the animosity Louise feels for her sister, even as her mind begins to deteriorate in ways that prompt her to lash out at Louise's mother. It is not until most of her family has gone, and Louise turns to medicine in the hills of Kentucky, that she finally truly comes into her own.
· Critical Evaluation
Excellent example of the way family members can sometimes turn against one another, even inadvertently, leaving certain others with a sense of deprivation and despair. The feelings Louise experiences for the Captain, while destined to not be returned, make for poignant reading.
· Reader’s Annotation
Wonderful historical fiction, without the need to become completely immersed in the past. Paterson brings the Chesapeake Bay area to life, and we can feel the sting of hurricane storms as she describes them. The relationships, while not always pretty, are genuine.
· Information about the author
Katherine Paterson has been award the Newberry Medal, and two National Book Awards. She was born in China, the daughter of missionaries, but received her master's degree in Richmond, VA.
· Genre
Fiction
· Curriculum Ties
WWII History
· Booktalking Ideas
First love and its effect on tween development.
Interactions between twins in literature.
· Reading Level/Interest Age
Grades 4-8/Ages 9-13
· Why did you include this book in the titles you selected?
I chose this title because it is considered a classic in the young adult category, but I never read it when I was in the age group. The content turned out to be much different than I expected, and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it.
Friday, October 2, 2009
Zlata's Diary
Filipovic, Z. (1994). Zlata's Diary: A Child's Life in Sarajevo. New York: Scholastic, Inc.
· Plot Summary
Zlata is an eleven year-old living in Sarajevo, a girl with the same interests as many of her friends: the radio, super models, and boys. Her parents are well off, and the family not only owns a second home where they go to relax, but also make trips to other countries for vacations on a regular basis. All of this changes when war breaks out, and within only the span of three months, Zlata's world is turned upside down. Her friend's families leave if they can, but her own must remain because her father is occasionally called upon by the Reserves. In the period between April 9th and July 14th, things have deteriorated so drastically that her school has closed, her best friend is killed, and her family is having to receive humanitarian aid from the United Nations. Over the course of the next year, her school is open intermittently, and the electricity does much the same. Her parents lose so much weight they cannot wear their old clothing any longer, and both of her pets die.
· Critical Evaluation
Sobering account of wartime Sarajevo from one of its citizens, the horrors to be described foreshadowed when Zlata mentions Anne Frank's diary when she decides to keep one of her own. Zlata is an inspiration, and manages to insert moments of amusing quirkiness into many of her entries, though there is often a passing back and forth between the humor and heartbreak of the entries.
· Reader’s Annotation
Most likely best appreciated by tweens in Zlata's own age group, although some boys may be put off by the dramatic way in which Zlata writes almost every entry.
· Information about the author
Zlata Filipovic kept her diary for over two years before her family was finally transported from Sarajevo in armored vehicles to a Serbian checkpoint, then took a plane to the safety zone that was Paris, France.
· Genre
Non-Fiction
Biography
· Curriculum Ties
History
Race relations
· Booktalking Ideas
Events and circumstances of the Sarajevo/Bosnian War
Examples of ethnic cleansing in history. (Hitler's Europe, Stalin and Soviet policy, Rwanda, Sudan)
· Reading Level/Interest Age
Grades 6-9/Ages 11-14
· Why did you include this book in the titles you selected?
I was interested in using a biography, and ran across this diary on a "Free Books" shelf in my office building. I graduated high school in 1994, but like most American's in my age group at the time, I missed a great deal of the details involved in the war.
· Plot Summary
Zlata is an eleven year-old living in Sarajevo, a girl with the same interests as many of her friends: the radio, super models, and boys. Her parents are well off, and the family not only owns a second home where they go to relax, but also make trips to other countries for vacations on a regular basis. All of this changes when war breaks out, and within only the span of three months, Zlata's world is turned upside down. Her friend's families leave if they can, but her own must remain because her father is occasionally called upon by the Reserves. In the period between April 9th and July 14th, things have deteriorated so drastically that her school has closed, her best friend is killed, and her family is having to receive humanitarian aid from the United Nations. Over the course of the next year, her school is open intermittently, and the electricity does much the same. Her parents lose so much weight they cannot wear their old clothing any longer, and both of her pets die.
· Critical Evaluation
Sobering account of wartime Sarajevo from one of its citizens, the horrors to be described foreshadowed when Zlata mentions Anne Frank's diary when she decides to keep one of her own. Zlata is an inspiration, and manages to insert moments of amusing quirkiness into many of her entries, though there is often a passing back and forth between the humor and heartbreak of the entries.
· Reader’s Annotation
Most likely best appreciated by tweens in Zlata's own age group, although some boys may be put off by the dramatic way in which Zlata writes almost every entry.
· Information about the author
Zlata Filipovic kept her diary for over two years before her family was finally transported from Sarajevo in armored vehicles to a Serbian checkpoint, then took a plane to the safety zone that was Paris, France.
· Genre
Non-Fiction
Biography
· Curriculum Ties
History
Race relations
· Booktalking Ideas
Events and circumstances of the Sarajevo/Bosnian War
Examples of ethnic cleansing in history. (Hitler's Europe, Stalin and Soviet policy, Rwanda, Sudan)
· Reading Level/Interest Age
Grades 6-9/Ages 11-14
· Why did you include this book in the titles you selected?
I was interested in using a biography, and ran across this diary on a "Free Books" shelf in my office building. I graduated high school in 1994, but like most American's in my age group at the time, I missed a great deal of the details involved in the war.
Friday, September 25, 2009
My Brother Sam is Dead
Collier, J.L. & Collier, C. (1974). My Brother Sam is Dead. New York: Scholastic, Inc. ISBN: 0439783607
· Plot Summary
"Life" Meeker and his son Tim are are loyal to the King of England during a time when American Colonial troops are struggling to gain independence from the monarchy. Tim's older brother, Sam, has chosen to side the Colonials against his parent's wishes. Putting his education at Yale, and his sweetheart (Betsy), and his family behind, Sam sets out to help the rebels. Things are not black and white in Redding, PA, however, and the town is composed of divided loyalties. Ultimately, Tim loses his father and brother to the injustices that occur during wartime, that sometimes have nothing to do with battle.
· Critical Evaluation
One of the best works of historical fiction to date, a truly riveting novel. The author's choice to have Life die on a British prison ship, and Sam killed when he is falsely accused of stealing his own family's cattle, is wrenching. It illustrates well how even the best individuals can become targets during war time, even at the hands of their own chosen side.
· Reader’s Annotation
Suitable for both genders, with strong characters portrayed from each. An informative piece of fiction, that includes a chapter on the real elements included in the story.
· Information about the author
James Lincoln is musician and editor, who in combination with his historian brother, Christopher, has written eight novels in this genre. The have also written more than two dozen non-fiction works for young adults. J.L. lives in New York City, while his brother lives in Connecticut.
· Genre
Historical Fiction
· Curriculum Ties
History
· Booktalking Ideas
Problem of choosing sides in the American Revolutionary War.
Morale and morality in war time.
· Reading Level/Interest Age
Grades 4-6/Ages 9-11
· Why did you include this book in the titles you selected?
I was assigned this book in the sixth grade, and managed to read half of it before the school realized I had been placed in the wrong class. The storyline interested me, and I did finish it, but hastily because of my other workload. This book is also considered a classic in the area of tween fiction, so I thought it was worth revisiting.
· Plot Summary
"Life" Meeker and his son Tim are are loyal to the King of England during a time when American Colonial troops are struggling to gain independence from the monarchy. Tim's older brother, Sam, has chosen to side the Colonials against his parent's wishes. Putting his education at Yale, and his sweetheart (Betsy), and his family behind, Sam sets out to help the rebels. Things are not black and white in Redding, PA, however, and the town is composed of divided loyalties. Ultimately, Tim loses his father and brother to the injustices that occur during wartime, that sometimes have nothing to do with battle.
· Critical Evaluation
One of the best works of historical fiction to date, a truly riveting novel. The author's choice to have Life die on a British prison ship, and Sam killed when he is falsely accused of stealing his own family's cattle, is wrenching. It illustrates well how even the best individuals can become targets during war time, even at the hands of their own chosen side.
· Reader’s Annotation
Suitable for both genders, with strong characters portrayed from each. An informative piece of fiction, that includes a chapter on the real elements included in the story.
· Information about the author
James Lincoln is musician and editor, who in combination with his historian brother, Christopher, has written eight novels in this genre. The have also written more than two dozen non-fiction works for young adults. J.L. lives in New York City, while his brother lives in Connecticut.
· Genre
Historical Fiction
· Curriculum Ties
History
· Booktalking Ideas
Problem of choosing sides in the American Revolutionary War.
Morale and morality in war time.
· Reading Level/Interest Age
Grades 4-6/Ages 9-11
· Why did you include this book in the titles you selected?
I was assigned this book in the sixth grade, and managed to read half of it before the school realized I had been placed in the wrong class. The storyline interested me, and I did finish it, but hastily because of my other workload. This book is also considered a classic in the area of tween fiction, so I thought it was worth revisiting.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
The Devil's Arithmetic
Yolen, Jane. (2000). The Devil's Arithmetic. Woodland Hills, CA: Scholastic Books. ISBN: 0142401099
· Plot Summary
Every Passover, Hannah Stern attends the Seder with her parents, little brother, and older relatives. She has grown tired of "remembering" the plight of the Jewish people, and in particular, listening to the stories imparted by her Grandpa Will, Aunt Rose, and Aunt Eva of their experiences in WWII. This Seder will be different though, and as Hannah goes to open the door for the prophet Elijah, she will be transported to that same place and time that her relatives spoke of to her. Not only that, but everyone calls her Chaya, a name that means "life" just as Hannah's does. Taken by the Nazi soldiers, she and her new family must face the horrors of a concentration camp, where Hannah meets Rivka. This girl, wise beyond her years, teaches Hannah the mathematics of the camp: how to recall the numbers branded on her arm, and how to "organize" in order to gain needed clothing and food.
· Critical Evaluation
Told from Hannah's point of view, the reader sees, hears, and understands only with her perspective. The plot is full of twists and turns, but each new trial Hannah must face is as much a mystery to use as it is to her. Few novels meant for this age group so easily transport as this one, and so few do not attempt to sugar coat the brutal nature of the experiences of WWII Jews. From the children hiding in the garbage pits to avoid detection by the camp director, to the deaths of those in Hannah's new family, each point is vividly made.
· Reader’s Annotation
One cannot really appreciate the experiences of others until they have lived in their shoes. This is especially true for those that must also learn an entirely new identity, and begin to forget their own.
· Information about the author
Author/editor of almost 300 books, within the science fiction, folklore, and childrens genres. Likened to Hans Christian Anderson and Aesop by prominent magazines Newsweek and Time. Winner of dozens of awards, including the Caldecott Medal, Nebula Award, Association of Jewish Libraries Award, and World Fantasy Award for Life Achievement.
· Genre
Historical Fiction
· Curriculum Ties
History
Oral History
· Booktalking Ideas
Jewish holidays and their customs.
The Jewish experience in WWII.
· Reading Level/Interest Age
Grades 7-9/12-14
· Why did you include this book in the titles you selected?
Fan of historical fiction, and WWII literature. Seeking material to show my daughter, since her school has not covered the topic of WWII and the experiences of the individuals to any real extent.
· Plot Summary
Every Passover, Hannah Stern attends the Seder with her parents, little brother, and older relatives. She has grown tired of "remembering" the plight of the Jewish people, and in particular, listening to the stories imparted by her Grandpa Will, Aunt Rose, and Aunt Eva of their experiences in WWII. This Seder will be different though, and as Hannah goes to open the door for the prophet Elijah, she will be transported to that same place and time that her relatives spoke of to her. Not only that, but everyone calls her Chaya, a name that means "life" just as Hannah's does. Taken by the Nazi soldiers, she and her new family must face the horrors of a concentration camp, where Hannah meets Rivka. This girl, wise beyond her years, teaches Hannah the mathematics of the camp: how to recall the numbers branded on her arm, and how to "organize" in order to gain needed clothing and food.
· Critical Evaluation
Told from Hannah's point of view, the reader sees, hears, and understands only with her perspective. The plot is full of twists and turns, but each new trial Hannah must face is as much a mystery to use as it is to her. Few novels meant for this age group so easily transport as this one, and so few do not attempt to sugar coat the brutal nature of the experiences of WWII Jews. From the children hiding in the garbage pits to avoid detection by the camp director, to the deaths of those in Hannah's new family, each point is vividly made.
· Reader’s Annotation
One cannot really appreciate the experiences of others until they have lived in their shoes. This is especially true for those that must also learn an entirely new identity, and begin to forget their own.
· Information about the author
Author/editor of almost 300 books, within the science fiction, folklore, and childrens genres. Likened to Hans Christian Anderson and Aesop by prominent magazines Newsweek and Time. Winner of dozens of awards, including the Caldecott Medal, Nebula Award, Association of Jewish Libraries Award, and World Fantasy Award for Life Achievement.
· Genre
Historical Fiction
· Curriculum Ties
History
Oral History
· Booktalking Ideas
Jewish holidays and their customs.
The Jewish experience in WWII.
· Reading Level/Interest Age
Grades 7-9/12-14
· Why did you include this book in the titles you selected?
Fan of historical fiction, and WWII literature. Seeking material to show my daughter, since her school has not covered the topic of WWII and the experiences of the individuals to any real extent.
Monday, September 14, 2009
Coraline
Selick, H. (Director). (Released July 21, 2009). Coraline. [Motion picture]. United States: Universal Studios.
· Plot Summary
Based on the book by the same name, Coraline is the story of a tween girl that has moved into a dilapidated house in a rural area with her parents, authors that write gardening books. With nothing else to do, she begins to roam the property surrounding the house, meeting a circus performer that lives upstairs, a pair of sisters who once worked on Vaudeville, and a boy around her own age named Why Born. Wybie, as he is called, finds an old doll in his grandmother's attic and gifts it to Coraline. Unknown to them, the doll once belonged to the grandmother's sister, who went mysteriously missing when they were children. When Coraline finds an equally mysterious door to another dimension in her living room, she comes face to face with the eery dopplegangers of her own parents, beings that called themselves "Other Mother" and "Other Father". Unlike Coraline's real parents, however, the Others possess buttons for eyes. They give Coraline everything she wants, and try to convince her to change her eyes as well, but it is left to a wily cat that haunts the gardens to save Coraline from the Other Mother and her scheme to imprison Coraline unto death, as she has several other children.
· Critical Evaluation
A true adaptation of the book by Neil Gaiman, an eery and fascinating film made all the more so by stop-motion photography. The vivid colors and whimsical scenes are in striking contrast to the dark natures of the characters.
· Reader’s Annotation
Good for those readers that enjoyed the original novel, though some tweens might have trouble with the content in this form.
· Booktalking Ideas
Neil Gaiman lovers event.
Horror for tweens and effects in the genre.
Concept of the Other in literature.
· Reading Level/Interest Age
Grades 4-9/Ages 9-14
· Why did you include this book in the titles you selected?
I read the novel when it first came out, and enjoyed it a lot more than I had anticipated. I was amazed it took as long as it did for the film version to come out, but was delighted with the use of stop-motion.
· Plot Summary
Based on the book by the same name, Coraline is the story of a tween girl that has moved into a dilapidated house in a rural area with her parents, authors that write gardening books. With nothing else to do, she begins to roam the property surrounding the house, meeting a circus performer that lives upstairs, a pair of sisters who once worked on Vaudeville, and a boy around her own age named Why Born. Wybie, as he is called, finds an old doll in his grandmother's attic and gifts it to Coraline. Unknown to them, the doll once belonged to the grandmother's sister, who went mysteriously missing when they were children. When Coraline finds an equally mysterious door to another dimension in her living room, she comes face to face with the eery dopplegangers of her own parents, beings that called themselves "Other Mother" and "Other Father". Unlike Coraline's real parents, however, the Others possess buttons for eyes. They give Coraline everything she wants, and try to convince her to change her eyes as well, but it is left to a wily cat that haunts the gardens to save Coraline from the Other Mother and her scheme to imprison Coraline unto death, as she has several other children.
· Critical Evaluation
A true adaptation of the book by Neil Gaiman, an eery and fascinating film made all the more so by stop-motion photography. The vivid colors and whimsical scenes are in striking contrast to the dark natures of the characters.
· Reader’s Annotation
Good for those readers that enjoyed the original novel, though some tweens might have trouble with the content in this form.
· Booktalking Ideas
Neil Gaiman lovers event.
Horror for tweens and effects in the genre.
Concept of the Other in literature.
· Reading Level/Interest Age
Grades 4-9/Ages 9-14
· Why did you include this book in the titles you selected?
I read the novel when it first came out, and enjoyed it a lot more than I had anticipated. I was amazed it took as long as it did for the film version to come out, but was delighted with the use of stop-motion.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
The Last Apprentice: Revenge of the Witch
Delaney, Joseph. (2005). The Last Apprentice: Revenge of the Witch. London: Red Fox. ISBN: 0060766182
· Plot Summary
Young Thomas Ward is the son of a farmer, but more importantly, he is the seventh son of a seventh son, and his mother has knowledge most others don't possess about things that go bump in the night. When she explains to Old Gregory, the local Spook (ghost, boggart, ogre, and witchhunter), that her son can be his new apprentice, Thomas's course is set. Forced to undergo a night alone in a haunted house, and unwittingly befriending the granddaughter of one of the worst witches in the county, Thomas learns the skills he must possess to someday replace Old Gregory.
· Critical Evaluation
The first in a series of novels about Thomas Ward (Wardstone Chronicles), and written from his point of view, the reader is drawn into a world most strange. No exact time or location is provided, though certain mentions suggest Great Britain or rural New England of the late 1600s, the age of witch trials and superstition. This is not a world of black and white, all good v all evil though, and Delaney makes it possible for the reader to see many shades of gray and in between.
· Reader’s Annotation
Rural life during an age of superstition, and the harsh truths of being different, are both vividly portrayed.
· Information about the author
Joseph Delaney began his career as an engineer, but changed to become an English teacher after his college graduation. His first novel was an erotic, science fiction thriller, and penned under the name J.K. Haderack.
· Genre
Fiction, Fantasy
· Booktalking Ideas
Halloween events.
Witches, ghosts, and other things that go bump in the night.
Witch trials in 17th century Britain.
· Reading Level/Interest Age
Grades 6-8/Ages 10-12
· Why did you include this book in the titles you selected?
Chose this book for daughter originally, but she never read it, and I thought it sounded interesting. We both enjoy accounts of things that go bump in the night, real and fiction.
· Plot Summary
Young Thomas Ward is the son of a farmer, but more importantly, he is the seventh son of a seventh son, and his mother has knowledge most others don't possess about things that go bump in the night. When she explains to Old Gregory, the local Spook (ghost, boggart, ogre, and witchhunter), that her son can be his new apprentice, Thomas's course is set. Forced to undergo a night alone in a haunted house, and unwittingly befriending the granddaughter of one of the worst witches in the county, Thomas learns the skills he must possess to someday replace Old Gregory.
· Critical Evaluation
The first in a series of novels about Thomas Ward (Wardstone Chronicles), and written from his point of view, the reader is drawn into a world most strange. No exact time or location is provided, though certain mentions suggest Great Britain or rural New England of the late 1600s, the age of witch trials and superstition. This is not a world of black and white, all good v all evil though, and Delaney makes it possible for the reader to see many shades of gray and in between.
· Reader’s Annotation
Rural life during an age of superstition, and the harsh truths of being different, are both vividly portrayed.
· Information about the author
Joseph Delaney began his career as an engineer, but changed to become an English teacher after his college graduation. His first novel was an erotic, science fiction thriller, and penned under the name J.K. Haderack.
· Genre
Fiction, Fantasy
· Booktalking Ideas
Halloween events.
Witches, ghosts, and other things that go bump in the night.
Witch trials in 17th century Britain.
· Reading Level/Interest Age
Grades 6-8/Ages 10-12
· Why did you include this book in the titles you selected?
Chose this book for daughter originally, but she never read it, and I thought it sounded interesting. We both enjoy accounts of things that go bump in the night, real and fiction.
Saturday, September 5, 2009
From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler
Konigsburg, E.L. (1967). From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler. New York: Scholastic, Inc. ISBN: 1416949755
· Plot Summary
Claudia Kincaid is the oldest of the Kincaid children, and is not only thoroughly bored with her life, but also tired of being taken for granted by her family. In the interest of making her parents take notice, thereby thwarting the injustice that has become a daily part of her existence, she has decided to run away to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. After careful planning, she decides to take her brother Jamie along, and the two venture forth intent on adventure. But living in a museum, while better than trying to struggle in the woods, is still no easy thing for two children. Forced to schedule everything they do in order not to be caught by the museum guards, the pair must also learn to conserve their money and other resources. Using the daytime hours to learn about the various exhibits in the museum, the two are drawn into the mystery of an angel statue, and are determined to find out if it truly is the work of the famous Michelangelo. When they believe enough time has passed for Claudia's point to have been made, she convinces Jamie to try one more adventure. They two embark for the home of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler, the widow that sold the statue in an auction for a mere $225.00. At her residence they confess what they have been up to, and Mrs. Frankweiler allows them just one hour to seek the information they want before sending them home. Convinced that the angel is a Michelangelo piece, Claudia is amazed, and Mrs. Frankweiler states she will leave the letter of proof to the children in her will. Little do they know that their newly adopted grandmother has had their actual grandfather (Saxonberg) as her lawyer for over four decades, and that in a series of letters addressed to him, Mrs. Frankweiler makes certain her wishes are carried out.
· Critical Evaluation
A humorous look at the often mundane issues that will cause children to need an escape, and a good introduction to the mystery genre. Literary questions and suggested activities relevant to the novel are included at the end. The relationship between Claudia and Jamie shows a marked creativity, with just the right amount of sibling squabbling and support seen throughout.
· Reader’s Annotation
Suitable for early tweens, and easily read in just one or two sittings. A classic of the category, and recommended start for possible suspense fans.
· Information about the author
Elaine Lobl Konigsburg was born in New York, but grew up in Pennsylvania. She was valedictorian of her class, and received a degree in chemistry. She married her husband while in graduate school, and the pair moved to Florida where Konigsburg worked as a school teacher. After the birth of their three children, the family moved back to Elaine's home state of New York, where she began her literary career.
· Genre
Mystery
Suspense
· Curriculum Ties
Art
· Booktalking Ideas
Michelangelo and his influence on Renaissance art.
Metropolitan Museum of Art and its place in New York history.
· Reading Level/Interest Age
Grades 6-7/Ages 10-11
· Why did you include this book in the titles you selected?
I read this book when I was fifth grade, but did not remember anything about it, and my daughter did not read the edition I bought her a year ago. I found it on her shelves, and decided to refresh my memory, because I did recall that I had enjoyed it myself.
· Plot Summary
Claudia Kincaid is the oldest of the Kincaid children, and is not only thoroughly bored with her life, but also tired of being taken for granted by her family. In the interest of making her parents take notice, thereby thwarting the injustice that has become a daily part of her existence, she has decided to run away to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. After careful planning, she decides to take her brother Jamie along, and the two venture forth intent on adventure. But living in a museum, while better than trying to struggle in the woods, is still no easy thing for two children. Forced to schedule everything they do in order not to be caught by the museum guards, the pair must also learn to conserve their money and other resources. Using the daytime hours to learn about the various exhibits in the museum, the two are drawn into the mystery of an angel statue, and are determined to find out if it truly is the work of the famous Michelangelo. When they believe enough time has passed for Claudia's point to have been made, she convinces Jamie to try one more adventure. They two embark for the home of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler, the widow that sold the statue in an auction for a mere $225.00. At her residence they confess what they have been up to, and Mrs. Frankweiler allows them just one hour to seek the information they want before sending them home. Convinced that the angel is a Michelangelo piece, Claudia is amazed, and Mrs. Frankweiler states she will leave the letter of proof to the children in her will. Little do they know that their newly adopted grandmother has had their actual grandfather (Saxonberg) as her lawyer for over four decades, and that in a series of letters addressed to him, Mrs. Frankweiler makes certain her wishes are carried out.
· Critical Evaluation
A humorous look at the often mundane issues that will cause children to need an escape, and a good introduction to the mystery genre. Literary questions and suggested activities relevant to the novel are included at the end. The relationship between Claudia and Jamie shows a marked creativity, with just the right amount of sibling squabbling and support seen throughout.
· Reader’s Annotation
Suitable for early tweens, and easily read in just one or two sittings. A classic of the category, and recommended start for possible suspense fans.
· Information about the author
Elaine Lobl Konigsburg was born in New York, but grew up in Pennsylvania. She was valedictorian of her class, and received a degree in chemistry. She married her husband while in graduate school, and the pair moved to Florida where Konigsburg worked as a school teacher. After the birth of their three children, the family moved back to Elaine's home state of New York, where she began her literary career.
· Genre
Mystery
Suspense
· Curriculum Ties
Art
· Booktalking Ideas
Michelangelo and his influence on Renaissance art.
Metropolitan Museum of Art and its place in New York history.
· Reading Level/Interest Age
Grades 6-7/Ages 10-11
· Why did you include this book in the titles you selected?
I read this book when I was fifth grade, but did not remember anything about it, and my daughter did not read the edition I bought her a year ago. I found it on her shelves, and decided to refresh my memory, because I did recall that I had enjoyed it myself.
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