WHAT MY MOTHER DOESN’T KNOW

A. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Sones, Sonya. 2003. What My Mother Doesn’t Know. New York, NY: Simon Pulse. ISBN 9780689855535

B. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Sones delightfully offers an amazing novel with an intriguing title, “What My Mother Doesn’t Know.” Written in the style of free verse poetry, this novel captures the universal voice, thoughts, and emotions of teenage girls. "Sones poignantly captures the tingle and heartache of being young and boy-crazy. The author keenly portrays ninth-grader Sophie's trajectory of lusty crushes and disillusionment." (Publishers Weekly)
This novel offers universal themes of friendship, heartache, and the desire to be loved. Sones protagonist, Sophie, is a believable character that young adults with be drawn to. Sophie longs for her mother and fathers attention. She wishes with all her heart her mother would show, “half as much interest in my life as she does in Luke and Laura’s.” (p.22) Further into the novel Sophie declares I Hate Her on page 149. The poem affirms what many girls have felt about their mother at one point or another:
I hate her
I hate her
I hate her

But I hate hating her.
I hate it.
This statement wraps up the thoughts of many young teens who know that as much as they hate their mom, they dearly love them as well. As the novel progresses Sophie and her mother’s relationship begins to change.
And I head to my room feeling all mixed-up,
Because there’s a part of me
that resents her for being so nosy,
But another part of me
That’s glad she cares. (p. 199)
As much as young adults resent the nosy part of their moms they do appreciate that they care. Many young adults are seeking that attention. Sophie secretly desires to know that when she steps out of the boundary mom will be there to bring her back, hold her, and let her know it will be alright.

Sophie has two wonderful friends. "Best friends Rachel and Grace provide anchoring friendships for Sophie as she navigates her home life as an only child with a distant father and a soap opera-devotee mother." (Publishers Weekly) Their friendship offers the story a giggly sense of being young and carefree. The girls are there for Sophie as she falls for Dylan, breaks up with him, and then falls for her Cyber Soul Mate. When she accidently falls in love with Murphy, the class dork, she’s not sure how she will tell her friends. “I feel so totally in love and so totally miserable.” (p. 251) Sophie starts the novel with a poem called “Sixth Sense” on how she just “knows” things. The torment of telling her friends that she loves Murphy ends with Sophie declaring: “everything’s going to be all right, sometimes I just know things.” (p. 259)
Sones novel offers young adult girls a perfect opportunity to: “glimpse through a peephole many teens may be peering through for the first time, unaware that others are seeing virtually the same new, scary, unfamiliar things.” (SLJ) Sones is an amazing writer! This book is so addictive it will have you begging for more!

C. REVIEW EXCEPTS
ALA 2002 Top Ten Quick Pick for Reluctant Young Adult Readers
ALA 2002 Best Book for Young Adults
A Booklist Editors’ Choice
School Library Journal: Sones's book makes these often-difficult years a little more livable by making them real, normal, and OK.
Publishers Weekly: Sophie's honest and earthy story feels destined to captivate a young female audience, avid and reluctant readers alike.

D. CONNECTIONS
*Which poem caught your attention and how did it affect you?
* When Sophie tells Robin, “I knew you but I didn’t know you” what exactly does she mean? Do we tend to do that to those we think we know.
*Choose a song that you believe would represent Sophie. Why did you chose that particular song.

Visit Sonya Sones at her website: http://www.sonyasones.com/

Other novels by Sonya Sones:
Stop Pretending: What Happened When My Big Sister Went Crazy. 2001. ISBN: 9780064462181
What My Girlfriend Doesn’t Know. 2008. ISBN: 9780689876035
One of Those Hideous Books Where The Mother Dies. 2005. ISBN: 9781416907886


HEART TO HEART: NEW POEMS INSPIRED BY TWENTIETH CENTURY AMERICAN ART

A. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Greenberg, Jan. 2001. Heart to Heart: New Poems Inspired by Twentieth Century American Art. New York, NY: Harry N. Abrams. ISBN: 9780810943865

B. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Heart to Heart is a beautiful compilation of poems inspired by twentieth-Century American Art edited by Jan Greenberg. Included in this collection are 48 wonderful poets such as: Angela Johnson, Naomi Shihab Nye, Janet S. Wong, and Jane Yolen. “The story, poems, and artwork hold something fresh and extraordinary with each rereading. Each piece of art shines with its own brilliance, enhanced by the carefully crafted text.”(Book Report) The book is divided into four categories: Stories, Voices, Impressions, and Expressions.

STORIES include poems that conjure up memories by the poet matched to a piece of art. I particularly loved, “Woman at the Piano” by William Jay Smith. Here’s a small excerpt:
“Everything in you went loose inside
And the world of a sudden became so wide
And open and joyous and free…” (p. 8)

VOICES contain poems in which the poet writes a voice for the painting he or she is writing about. My favorite is titled “From Above” by Angela Johnson.
“—And I am happy in
the coolness
as I am in the warmth,
Because I can fly as
Free as I feel
And watch my people
With love
From
Above.” (p. 25)

IMPRESSIONS offers the poets fresh take of how the art made an impression on them through poetry. I particularly enjoyed “Grant Wood: American Gothic” by Jane Yolen.
“Look behind the eyes,
to see who looks out at you.
We are not what we own.
We own what we would be.” (p.39)

EXPRESSIONS explores art. It depicts how the poet felt the art spoke to them in visual terms. The poem that stood out to me was “The Painting Comes Home” by Stephen Corey.
“So many paintings seem to be
Somewhere else
In space and time: people are lost
In a background
Or nowhere in sight, the buildings
Are like foreign castles.
But here we have home and
Suppertime, the air on that edge between day and evening,
The family gathered as the wall of dark grows hard.” (p. 58)

The book offers biographical notes on the poets and the artists as well as an index to find the author or art work quickly. "Concluding with biographical notes on each poet and artist, this rich resource is an obvious choice for teachers, and the exciting interplay between art and the written word will encourage many readers to return again and again to the book." (Booklist) It is a beautiful poetry book that begs to be read and to be seen. "If a picture book is defined as a marriage of word and art, then Heart to Heart is not only a wonderful poetry collection, but also a picture book of the highest quality." (SLJ)

C.REVIEW EXCEPTS
Michael L. Printz Honor Book
Booklist: the exciting interplay between art and the written word will encourage many readers to return again and again to the book.
Kirkus Review: The color reproduction of the works from museum slides is excellent, and the varied arrangements of text and art on the page lends interest. Some of the works are accessible to young children; others are more sophisticated.
Book Report: A wonderful integration of art, literature, and diversity, it includes biographical notes on the poets and artists.

D. Connections
*Offer various works of art for students to select from. Have students select a piece and write their own poem about it.
*Have students select their favorite poem and create a piece of art or match a piece of art to the poem.
*Discuss art. Discuss poetry. How are the two alike?

*Other related books
Greenberg, Jan. Side by Side: New Poems Inspired by Art from Around the World. 2008. ISBN: 9780810994713
Rowden, Justine. 2005. Paint Me a Poem: Poems Inspired by Masterpieces of Art. ISBN: 9781590782897


MAKE LEMONADE

A. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Wolfe, Virginia Euwer. 1993. Make Lemonade. New York, NY: Scholastic Inc. ISBN: 059048141X

B. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Virginia Euwer Wolfe composed a free verse novel that highlights the life of poverty for a fourteen year old girl named LaVaughn. “The tale is told in natural first-person, and in rhythmic prose arranged in open verse. The poetic form emphasizes the flow of the teenager's language and thought.” (SLJ) LaVaughn’s mother so desires that La Vaughn make her way out of poverty that she emphasizes homework, college, and determination or “take hold.” La Vaughn states, “Homework is a completely required thing like a vaccination.” (p. 4) “It’s why I do all the homework all the time. It’s what will get me out of here.” (p. 11) To earn money for college she takes on a babysitting job from seventeen year old mother, Jolly. As she babysits she becomes personally involved in the lives of the children and of Jolly. She describes mixed feelings, emotions, and the rawness of this difficult life. “There's humor as well as anguish in the tableaux she sets before us, with some of the funniest and most stirring scenes revolving around Jolly's children, both fully realized characters.” (Booklist) As the story progresses Jolly learns from LaVaughn. She begins to understand what she must do to move out of her circumstances. LaVaughn on the other hand learns from Jolly as well. Jolly retells a story of a blind woman that was robbed of her orange and given a lemon in place. Although she was victimized she makes the best of this circumstance and makes lemonade. (p. 173) LaVaughn eyes are opened and she finally understands what she herself needs to do. “The four become something akin to a temporary family, and through their relationship each makes progress toward a better life. (Horn Book) The book demonstrates to young adults the importance of making a better life for you. It emphasizes the importance of college while highlighting the importance of reaching out to one another. “That education is the bridge to a better life is the unapologetic, unmistakable theme, symbolized by the sprouting of the lemon seeds.” (Booklist)

C. REVIEW EXCEPTS
Booklist: At once disturbing and uplifting, this finely nuanced, touching portrait proudly affirms our ability to reach beyond ourselves and reach out to one another.
Horn Book: The four become something akin to a temporary family, and through their relationship each makes progress toward a better life.
School Library Journal: The dynamics between the two young women are multidimensional and elastic--absolutely credible. Make Lemonade is a triumphant, outstanding story. --
Publishers Weekly: Radiant with hope, this keenly observed and poignant novel is a stellar addition to YA literature.

D. CONNECTIONS
*LaVaughn’s mother states that “You make a bed you have to lie in it.” What does she mean by this and is it true?
*Recount a time when you were given a lemon and make lemonade.
*Did this story move you? How?

To learn more about Wolff check out the bio at: http://www2.scholastic.com/browse/contributor.jsp?id=1943

Read a question and answer interview by Publisher’s Weekly at: http://www.publishersweekly.com/article/CA6634519.html

Other books in the trilogy by Virginia Euwer Wolff:
True Believer. 2002. ISBN: 9780689852886
This Full House. 2009. ISBN: 9780061583049

MODULE 5: HISTORY, BIOGRAPHY, AND NONFICTION

Hattie Big Sky

A. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Larson, Kirby. 2006. Hattie Big Sky. New York, NY: Delacorte Press. ISBN 9780440239413

B. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Kirby Larson has written a wonderful historical novel that will capture the attention of its reader. Sixteen year old protagonist, Hattie Inez Brooks, has been an orphan since she can remember. While living with her Aunt Ivy and Uncle Holt, she receives a letter from her Uncle Chester who has passed away leaving her with his land claim and its contents. When she arrives in Montana she has 10 months to cultivate 40 acres and set 480 rods of fence in order to keep the claim she inherited. The plot follows a historical sequence of events. The actions of Hattie are not romanticized. Instead the plot reveals the difficulties of a homesteaders life.

The setting takes place in rural Montana. Hattie, a homesteader, works in hard conditions in effort to keep the land. In a letter to Uncle Holt she states: “You asked me to tell you more about my everyday doings. Such a life of glamour, you cannot imagine!” (p. 49) She compares her life to the story of David and Goliath. Hoping her ending will be as victorious. The winters are extremely cold, with blizzards and below freezing temperatures. Spring brings about mud so thick her books get stuck in the mud. Summers are harsh and the heat produces drought and fires. Hattie lives in an era of transition. Some rich people have vehicles but most still ride horses such as Hattie. Some have indoor plumbing but living so far out in the country Hattie has to rely on her outhouse. “I’d gotten awfully spoiled at Aunt Ivy and Uncle Holt’s with their indoor plumbing. One more thing to get used to in Montana.” (p.44)

Larson developed a female character with grit and strength. She is far from perfect and admits that her, “pridefulness was a constant source of sorrow and agitation for Aunt Ivy. She’d worn out many a switch trying to cure me of it.” (p.11) She admits to herself that life is tough and she will, “have to rely on that painful teacher, Experience, until I get my homestead legs.” (p. 14) Hattie has a great sense of humor. She is able to laugh at herself as readers will discover reading the letters she pens to her school pal who is fighting in the war. “Evocative yet straightforward language ably depicts Hattie's joys and struggles.” (Horn Book 2007) Hattie, an orphan, rises above her challenges and finds inner strength. She also relays the message to young adults that family is more than just DNA. Her family were the friends who embraced her, taught her, loved her, and supported her through hard times.

Two central themes stand out: frontier life and patriotism. While the story relates the hardships of frontier life and how Hattie "proved up" to the challenge, it also tells of World War I bigotry and discrimination toward German Americans (SLJ 2006). Hattie is pressured to “Join the Montana Loyalty League…it hunts home huns, checks class conflicts, promotes pure patriotism.” (p. 112) Speaking of the war,“This evil is so big. The fight has spread far beyond the battlefield. (p. 217) Pressures to be a "loyal" American complicate her situation after she befriends a German couple. (Horn Book 2007) Despite the serious pressures placed on her she remains friends with Karl and Perilee.

At the end of the book the author notes how this novel came to fruition. She also states parallels of 1918 to the present. Relating how people have reacted to the war of Iraq and how they reacted during WWI. Larson goes on to offer recipes and further suggested readings if desired.

Reading this novel was enlightening. To hear about such harsh conditions and the grit it took to work the land one will marvel at those who made it. Although Hattie does not accomplish what she set out to do, the reader understands that nature wrote Hattie’s unfortunate outcome. “I felt as if I was at a funeral. And in a way it was. A funeral for a dream. How could months of work be destroyed in a few minutes?” (p.241) Young adults will come to see that life is challenging. We must all face difficult circumstances at some point in our lives. The choices we make will ultimately write out the chapters of our lives. Hattie rises from her challenges stronger and declares, “One thing I’d left behind: Hattie here –and –there, I want’ going to miss her. Not one bit.’ (p. 283) Readers will be find encouragement from Hattie’s perseverance to face their situations head on.

After reading this novel I felt like I knew more about the life of those who forged forward and were the pioneers of the west. What a struggle they faced daily due to a lack of conveniences we know today. I was surprised to learn of the similarities in fears Americans had in 1918 to the fears we have today. German Americans were watched with caution and fear since the country was fighting a war with Germany. Today people of Muslim faith or Arab American are treated with suspicions due to our war with the Taliban. I had no idea censors scanned mail sent between the soldiers and civilians. I was also surprised to learn how Day Light Savings came to be. “President Wilson says it will save millions of tons of coal and thus help the war effort.” (p.92) How fascinating.

C. REVIEW EXCEPTS
Newbery Honor Book
Horn Book: Evocative yet straightforward language ably depicts Hattie's joys and struggles. Recipes and an author's note are included.
Booklist: Writing in figurative language that draws on nature and domestic detail to infuse her story with the sounds, smells, and sights of the prairie, she creates a richly textured novel full of memorable characters.
School Library Journal: Larson relates a heartwarming yet poignant story about homesteading in early-20th-century Montana. Larson's vivid descriptions of the harshness of the work and the extreme climates, and the strength that comes from true friendship, create a masterful picture of the homesteading experience and the people who persevered. Hattie's courage and fortitude are a tribute to them
Kirkus Review: Based on a bit of Larson's family history, this is not so much a happily-ever-after story as a next-year-will-be-better tale, with Hattie's new-found definition of home. This fine offering may well inspire readers to find out more about their own family histories.

D. CONNECTIONS
*Write a poem that depicts nature as told by Hattie in Montana.
* What similarities can you find between how Germans were treated in this book during WWI and how we treated Arab Americans after 9/11.
*What lessons can be learned from Hattie?
*Research your family history.

Visit Kirby Larson’s Website at: http://www.kirbylarson.com/

Check out this other work by Kirby Larson:
Two Bobbies: A True Story of Hurricane Katrina, Friendship, and Survival. 2008. ISBN: 9780802797544



Copper Sun

A. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Draper, Sharon. 2006. Copper Sun. New York, NY: Antheneum Books. ISBN: 9780689821813

B. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Sharon Draper wrote a novel that will tear at the heart. Copper Sun unmistakably will make the reader hurt, scream at the injustice, and ache for those who suffered so. It is a historical fiction novel that tells the story of slavery with no bars held. It vividly describes the gruesome and atrocious injustices of slavery. Fifteen year old Amari is stolen from her village, shipped overseas to America, and sold to the highest bidder.

The setting first takes place in Amari’s beloved village Ziavi in Africa. She describes the rusty brown dirt, sweet smell of mango trees, thatched roof homes, and of villagers soaking up the wonderful sunshine. Then the setting takes a grave turn as “pale, unhealthy looking men who carried large bundles and unusual-looking sticks” marched into their village. (p.7) “The story begins in Amari's Ashanti village, but the idyllic scene explodes in bloodshed when slavers arrive and murder her family.” (Booklist 2006) The setting is then moved to a holding cell, the harsh sea, and finally to their final destination, Charles Town, South Carolina, in America. The story will then take place on a plantation where slaves are bought and sold with no regard for life.

Draper’s theme and characterization are woven together throughout the book. The theme is one of perseverance and her character Amari is one that lives out this determination to preserve. Draper tells the story of slavery with realistic gruesome detail. She also describes the resilience of mankind. The novel exemplifies that those who survived were strong, courageous, and admirable people. Amari’s journey was as one who must live. “You know, certain people are chosen to survive. I don’t know why but you are one of those who must remember the past and tell those yet unborn. You must live.” (p.37) There are many times that Amari will wish she could fly away or die but yet throughout the novel she continues to fight and live. A woman who befriends her in the holding cell in Africa tells her, “Find beauty wherever you can, child. It will keep you alive.” (p.64) The theme of perseverance continues as Draper introduces an indentured white servant into the life of Amari. Polly, who has not suffered a tinge of what Amari has, does understand difficulties as well. She has learned that, “tears fixed nothing. As far as she was concerned crying showed weakness and was simply a waste of time.” (p.80) Teenie, a slave on the plantation Amari lives on declares, “Everybody got hard times at one time or t’other.” (p.101) Amari continues to find inner strength and reminds herself, “she must concentrate not on what was lost, but on what must be found.” (p. 225) “Balanced between the overwhelmingly brutal facts of slavery and Amari's ferocious survivor's spirit, will leave readers breathless, even as they consider the story's larger questions about the infinite costs of slavery and how to reconcile history.” (Booklist)

I recommend this novel with caution. “The narrative wears its research heavily. Every bad thing that befell an African slave either happens to or is witnessed by Amari.” (Publishers Weekly) The novel can feel at times so burdened with atrocities that it is difficult to keep reading. I recommend this novel be read as a class where young adults can work through the difficulties and have questions answered. “It is a great story that will increase students' knowledge of slavery and indentured servitude and its impact on the young people of that time period.” (LMC) Amari’s life will challenge young adults who constantly feel that there life is “terrible.” They will learn from Amari that things can definably be worse but that in the midst of darkness there is light. You can find beauty if you chose to see it.

At the end of the novel the author offers an afterward that states that although this novel is a work of fiction the story is based on facts about slavery. The author also offers resources such as many website addresses and a list of books for further research on this subject. I have seen movies about slavery but not one gave me the realistic view that this novel provided in words. Draper vividly describes the pain in such a way that enlightens the heaviness of this painful time in history. Readers will come away with heavy lessons about the toll slavery played in the life of slaves.

C. REVIEW EXCEPTS
Coretta Scott King Award Winner
Booklist: Balanced between the overwhelmingly brutal facts of slavery and Amari's ferocious survivor's spirit, will leave readers breathless, even as they consider the story's larger questions about the infinite costs of slavery and how to reconcile history. A moving author's note discusses the real places and events on which the story is based.
Horn Book: Draper succeeds in dramatizing the slave experience.
School Library Journal: This action-packed, multifaceted, character-rich story describes the shocking realities of the slave trade and plantation life while portraying the perseverance, resourcefulness, and triumph of the human spirit.
Kirkus Review: poignant and harrowing, this narrative of early America alternates between the voices of enslaved Amari and indentured servant Polly, building a believable interracial friendship centered on the common goal of freedom.
Library Media Connection: This character-rich, moving story of two young women facing overwhelming odds will catch the interest of many readers who have a love of history. It is a great story that will increase students' knowledge of slavery and indentured servitude and its impact on the young people of that time period. Highly Recommended.

D. CONNECTIONS
*What does Afi mean when she tells Amari, “You know, certain people are chosen to survive”(p.37)
*Does slavery exist today? Back it up your answer with research.
*Is it possible to find light among dark?
*Write a poem that describes your feelings about slavery.

Visit Sharon Draper’s Website at: http://sharondraper.com/books.asp

*Other novels by Sharon Draper:
Just Another Hero. 2009. ISBN: 9781416907008
November Blues. 2009. ISBN: 9781416906995
The Battle of Jericho. 2006. ISBN: 9780689842337



We Are the Ship: The Story of Negro League Baseball

A. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Nelson, Kadir. 2008. We Are the Ship: The Story of Negro League Baseball. New York, NY: Hyperion. ISBN: 9780786808328

B. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Kadir Nelson has beautifully accomplished writing the history of Negro League Baseball in such a smooth readable manner. As the unnamed narrator accounts the story you feel as you are in a living room hearing the tales of the good ole days. “Nelson offers a readable account that is infused with an air of nostalgic oral history.” (SLJ 2008) The narrator speaks to the reader directly saying, “Now let me tell you something or did you know…” (p.5 &51) Young Adults will enjoy hearing the narrator speak directly to them.

Nelson uses descriptive language to celebrate the history of Negro League Baseball. “Negro baseball was fast! Flashy! Daring! Sometimes it was even funny. But always very exciting to watch.” (p. 17) Nelson produced high quality writing that is age appropriate for the reader. The book reads smoothly and kids of all ages will enjoy his tone of writing. "The back roads of those little towns were so bumpy they’d have us bouncing around the bus like popcorn on a hot stove.” (p. 23) In the book young adults will learn about segregation black players suffered trying to enter restaurants, hotels, and bathrooms. “It’s a hurtful thing when you’re starving and have a pocket full of money but can’t find a place to eat because they ‘don’t serve Negroes.’ ” (p. 24) "The narrative showcases the pride and comradery of the Negro Leagues, celebrates triumphing on one’s own terms and embracing adversity, even as it clearly shows the “us” and “them” mentality bred by segregation." (Booklist) Readers will also come away from the book understanding the strength, commitment, dedication, and love the players had for the game. “We loved the game so much we just looked past everything else. We were ball players. There was nothing we would have rather spent our time doing.” (p. 29)

Nelson cleverly formatted the book into innings instead of chapters. Each chapter provides enlightening and informative information from his research. "Nelson's extensive research (including interviews with former players) yields loads of attention-grabbing details: how much money players made; where, when, and how often." (Horn Book) I was amazed to learn how there were no rules to baseball at first, and how shin guards, and face masks came to be out of necessity! “Too many times he (Bud Fowler) was forced to leave the field on crutches…good came out of it. His scarred shins gave him the idea to attach wooden staves from a barrel to his legs for protection.” (p.2) Hence, the first shin guard was born!

As wonderful as the writing is in this book, the art is even more incredible! “His grand slam, though, is the art: Nelson's oil paintings have a steely dignity, and his from-the-ground perspectives make the players look larger than life.” (Horn Book) It’s amazing to visually see the strength, grit, determination, and camaraderie each illustration displays. “Nelson's muscular paintings serve as the true draw. His larger-than-life players have oversized hands, elongated bodies and near-impossible athleticism. Their lined faces suggest the seriousness with which they took their sport and the circumstances under which they were made to play it.” (Publishers Weekly) This book is incredible and begs to be read by all. “Along with being absolutely riveted by the art, readers will come away with a good picture of the Negro Leaguers' distinctive style of play, as well as an idea of how their excellence challenged the racial attitudes of both their sport and their times.” (Kirkus Review)

Readers of all ages will enjoy this celebrated book. It is a tribute to all those who forged forward to unleash the spirit of the game. “Unfortunately, most of them will never receive the recognition they deserve.” (p. 51) I believe Nelson has taken the first important step of addressing this gap in history and telling others the true story of how many courageous men stepped up to the plate and played such as Jackie Robinson. “He received death threats… Pitchers threw at him, pushed him…he didn’t say anything because he knew it would ruin the chances of any other Negro playing in the majors.” (p. 74) These men deserve to be remembered and Nelson has done a superb job of relighting their legacies. "One need not be a baseball fan to enjoy this book, because it's more than a sports story. It's a story of real people enduring more than many of us can imagine, playing a game they love." (LMC 2008)

The book offers supportive evidence of how this book and the research were established. Nelson offers a list of Negro Leaguers, a bibliography, filmography, endnotes, and an index for readers to access information quickly and effectively. “It is an engaging tribute that should resonate with a wide audience and delight baseball fans of all ages.” (SLJ)

C. REVIEW EXCEPTS
Bluebonnet Award Nominee
Booklist: The stories and artwork are a tribute to the spirit of the Negro Leaguers, who were much more than also-rans and deserve a more prominent place on baseball’s history shelves.
Horn Book: Imagine listening to baseball legends Willie Mays and Ernie Banks swapping stories about their Negro League days as they sit in the stands, munching on peanuts and watching Ken Griffey Jr. launch a curve ball into the stratosphere. That kind of easygoing, conversational storytelling is exactly what Kadir Nelson achieves in this pitch-perfect history of Negro League baseball.
Kirkus Review: Nelson continues to top himself with each new book. Here, working solo for the first time, he pays tribute to the hardy African-American players of baseball's first century with a reminiscence written in a collective voice.
Publishers Weekly: In his first outing as author as well as illustrator, Nelson delivers a history of the Negro Leagues in a sumptuous volume that no baseball fan should be without.

D. CONNECTIONS
*What does “We Are The Ship-All Else The Sea” mean?
*Write a biopoems for one famous black player named in this book.
*How did rules change the game of baseball?

To learn more about Kadir Nelson and his work check out his website at: http://www.kadirnelson.com/

Other biographies Kadir Nelson has illustrated:
Abe’s Honest Words: The Life of Abraham Lincoln. 2008. ISBN: 9781423104087
Testing the Ice: A True Story About Jackie Robinson. 2009. ISBN: 9780545052511
Coretta Scott. 2009. ISBN: 9780061253645

MODULE 4: FANTASY & SCIENCE FICTION

TWILIGHT

A. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Meyer, Stephenie. 2005. Twilight. New York, NY: Megan Tingley Books. ISBN 9780316160179

B. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Stephenie Meyer has written a novel in which forbidden love draws her protagonist to the other. “Meyer adds an eerie new twist to the mismatched, star-crossed lovers theme: predator falls for prey, human falls for vampire.” (SLJ) The protagonist, Bella, is your typical teenager who feels she doesn’t quite fit in. She dresses plainly and enjoys a quieter existence among her peers. “Bella embodies the girl who has been "average" for so long that she no longer sees anything remarkable about herself.” (Kirkus Review) Edward Cullen is pale with noticeable features. Dark eyes with purplish shadows around as if painted by “an old master as the face of an angel.” (p. 19) “Edward Cullen, beautiful beyond belief and angrily aloof.” (Booklist) Bella desires Edward. "Drawn by his irresistible good looks and animal magnetism, Bella finds herself falling in love with Edward and determines to unveil the true person behind the impenetrable facade." (Horn Book)

Meyer provides the perfect setting for her novel to take place, Washington State, in a small town called Forks. The weather in this town supplies the ideal blend for this eerie novel, constant cover of clouds, rain, and hardly any sunshine. The location provides the gloom, mysterious, and ominous background for the dangerous and forbidden romance to take place. The novel takes the reader into the forested areas that surround Forks. In the woods readers will come to find out that there are myths about vampires. One myth in particular that is not true is that vampires hate the sun. Bella discovers that the sun reveals their mysticism. He becomes a beautiful, diamond glittering, glowing, beauty. “A perfect statue, carved in some unknown stone, smooth like marble, glittering like crystal.” (p.260) The only way Edward is able to fully reveal himself to Bella is when they are alone with nature.

The plot, although fantasy, is somewhat believable. The reader is drawn in by the words of this remarkable author. I found myself constantly remarking how smooth of a writer she is for a first time novelist. “Don’t be afraid, “he murmured, his velvet voice unintentionally seductive.” I promise…” he hesitated. “I swear not to hurt you.” He seemed more concerned with convincing himself than me.” (p. 264) Young girls are immediately attracted to this forbidden, gentle, caring, vampire, believing that this quest could be possible. The author also sets the stage by describing how Bella was predestined to become a vampire. She notes that Bella’s skin color is usually “almost translucent-looking” but here in Forks, “she had no color at all.” (p.10) A foreshadowing of her life to come. Bella doesn’t relate well to kids her own age or for that matter people in general. This explains to the reader that Bella will fit in to the life of vampire solitude. Then the author describes an unusual trait that Bella possesses. “I smelled blood,” “People can’t smell blood,” he contradicted. “Well, I can--- it smells like rust…and salt.” (p.100) Again, Bella is described as being born with qualities that will easily lend her to the life she desires with Edward.

Meyers clearly set the theme of self transformation. Edwards family, although vampires, have each carefully reinvented themselves. They are civil abiding citizens who not only care for humans, but for the environment as well. When discussing how they “eat” Edward tells Bella, “We have to be careful not to impact the environment with injudicious hunting. We try to focus on areas with an over population of predators…” (p. 215) Edward goes on to explain to Bella how his adopted father transformed himself and how as a family they firmly believe: “Just because we’ve been…dealt a certain hand…it doesn’t’ mean that we can’t choose to rise above -- to conquer the boundaries of a destiny that none of us wanted.” (p. 307) The author explains through Edwards character how each individual can control our evil desires. “I could kill you quite easily, Bella, simply by accident.” I can never, never afford to lose any kind of control when I’m with you.” (p. 310) Edward is able to contain atrocious desires in order to have what he most desires, Bella. Bella and Edward declare their love for one another. “I love you more than everything else in the world combined. Isn’t that enough?” “Yes, it is enough,” he answered, smiling. “Enough for forever.” (p.498)

While I believe in Meyer’s theme of self transformation, the belief that we can change our destinies and renew our lives, I still wasn’t thrilled with the message the young adults receive from this story. In my opinion, I’m not thrilled with giving the perception to young girls that if the boy is quote “dangerous” but as long as he is kind and gentle to you that you should follow your desires. But, that is just my opinion. As far as young teen readers are concerned they will find this novel tantalizing and sure to please.

C. REVIEW EXCEPTS
New York Times Editor's Choice
Publishers Weekly Best Book of the Year
Amazon "Best Book of the Decade...So Far"
A Teen People "Hot List" pick
Booklist: Their love is palpable, heightened by their touches, and teens will respond viscerally. There are some flaws here--a plot that could have been tightened, an overreliance on adjectives and adverbs to bolster dialogue--but this dark romance seeps into the soul.
School Library Journal: Bella and Edward's struggle to make their relationship work becomes a struggle for survival, especially when vampires from an outside clan infiltrate the Cullen territory and head straight for her. As a result, the novel's danger-factor skyrockets as the excitement of secret love and hushed affection morphs into a terrifying race to stay alive. Realistic, subtle, succinct, and easy to follow, Twilight will have readers dying to sink their teeth into it.
Kirkus Review: Edward's portrayal as monstrous tragic hero is overly Byronic, and Bella's appeal is based on magic rather than character. Nonetheless, the portrayal of dangerous lovers hits the spot; fans of dark romance will find it hard to resist.

D. CONNECTIONS
*Have students make a suggested list of songs that Bella or Edward would have on their MP3 player.
*Discus forbidden love. What does it mean?
*List the pros and cons of Bella staying with Edward.
Visit Stephenie Meyers Official Website at: http://www.stepheniemeyer.com/twilightseries.html

Other novels in this series:
New Moon. ISBN: 9780316024969
Eclipse. ISBN: 9780316160209
Breaking Dawn. ISBN: 9780316067928

THE DEAD & THE GONE

A. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Pfeffer, Susan Beth. 2008. The Dead & The Gone. Orlando, FL: Harcourt Books. ISBN 9780152063115

B. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Susan Pfeffer has written a science fiction novel that offers an eerie look into a very plausible future scenario. The plot of the story has the protagonist, a seventeen year old boy named Alex, confronted with an extremely difficult situation. The moon has been knocked out of orbit by an asteroid and is causing chaos in the world. I found it incredibly convincing how Pfeffer uses the moon in this novel. With this occurrence, tides are affected and begin the process in which “the planet is rocked by famine, floods, freezing temperatures and widespread disease.” (Publishers Weekly) As I read through the book I kept imagining what I would do if my family were put through this situation. Alex’s parents are missing. “Alex suddenly faces the reality of survival and the obligation to protect his two younger sisters. His moral and religious upbringing is continually put to the test as he finds himself forced to take action that is often gruesome if not unethical—like situations.” (Kirkus Review)

The setting takes place in New York and Pfeffer does an excellent job of describing streets, places, and situations that make not only the setting but the plot credible. “She accurately and knowingly depicts New York City from bodegas to boardrooms, and even the far-fetched science upon which the novel hinges seems well researched.” (SLJ) The reader can envision through her graphic description of events the reality of life Alex now lives. Alex visits Yankee Stadium searching among the dead bodies for his lost mother. “Then came the smells, unlike anything he’d ever known, a sickening combination of vomit, body odor, and rotting meat.” (p. 62) “Readers will be gripped and horrified by descriptions of the smells, sounds, and desperation.” (Library Media Connection) The setting moves the reader into this imaginary world of despair. "Pfeffer creates tension not only through her protagonist's day-to-day struggles but also through chilling moral dilemmas: whether to rob the dead, who to save during a food riot, how long to preserve the hope that his parents might return." (Publisher Weekly) The novel is candid with the gruesome possibilities of what it would take to survive an ordeal such as this. Ethics, morals, and rules are sometimes thrown out the window in order to avoid the inevitable.

The theme of this novel is family, faith, and resilience. Alex and his two sisters have to rely on each other to survive. Their faith also plays a huge part in their survival skills. “Religion is one of the strong threads running through the novel.” (Booklist) Not knowing where else to turn Alex runs to Father Franco who replies: “We must pray for Christ’s mercy,” he said. “I don’t know what else to tell you.” (p. 49) The kids are forced to grow up fast. Alex states of his sister Julie, “Her baby days were over. The world had no more room for twelve-year-old babies." (p. 98) As they begin to mature fast they continue to lean on each other and their faith. They each pray, attend mass, and seek God for strength. Alex states, “Forgive me for ever thinking I can do what I must alone, without Your guidance and Your love. (p. 185) As the novel continues the reader will come to understand the blessing we have at the moment. Young Adult readers will realize that life can change with a blink of an eye. No one is ever promised tomorrow. I believe Alex states it best when he says, “I was so spoiled, he thought. I had so much and I didn’t appreciate it. I always wanted more.” (p. 300) The author gives a very vivid picture of how drastic life could change. “I was gripped in a panic as I read this book that didn’t dissipate after I finished it. It hits very close to home…” (Library Media Connection)

I highly recommend this book with caution. If a young adult reader is not ready to hear plausible scientific situations that could occur then I would not recommend this novel. “…what Pfeffer writes about seems wrenchingly plausible.(Booklist) The powerful images and wrenching tragedies will haunt readers.(Publishers Weekly)

C. REVIEW EXCEPTS
Booklist: The story’s power, as in the companion book, comes from readers’ ability to picture themselves in a similar situation.
School Library Journal: The characters evolve as the city decomposes, and the author succeeds in showing their heroism without making them caricatures of virtue. This fast-paced, thoughtful story is a good pick for melodrama fiends and reluctant readers alike.
Kirkus Review: …realistically bone-chilling despair and death join with the larger question of how the haves and have-nots of a major metropolitan city will ultimately survive in an increasingly lawless, largely deserted urban wasteland. Incredibly engaging.

D. CONNECTIONS
*Make a list of necessary items needed to survive a similar event for your family.
*Create a poem that describes the despair Alex and his sisters are facing.
*Discuss the plausibility of an event such as the moon being hit by an asteroid.

Follow Susan Beth Pfeffer with her Blog Website at: http://susanbethpfeffer.blogspot.com/2007/11/my-preliminary-notes-about-dead-gone.html

*1st Book in Series:
Life As We Knew It. 2008. ISBN: 9780152061548

SONG OF THE LIONESS BOOK 2:
“In The Hand Of The Goddess”

A. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Pierce, Tamora. 1984. In The Hand Of The Goddess. New York, NY: Atheneum Books for Young Readers. ISBN 0689853246

B. CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Tamora Pierce has written a mystical fantasy novel that is sure to please. The plot of the story revolves around the protagonist Alanna. Alanna is a young girl who dreamed as a child of becoming a warrior maiden. Disguised as a boy, Alanna serves Prince Jonathan as his personal squire. She has mastered the skills of dueling, has special magical powers, and the strength to boldly live and walk among other men within the Kings court. Alanna is forced to face her fears as the Goddess appears before her in the woods. She explains that she must conquer three fears. “You fear the Ordeal of the Knighthood.” (p.10) “You fear love.” (p. 11) “What’s my third fear?” “Roger, Duke of Conte.” (p.12) Alanna duels at a banquet, is taken prisoner of war, saved by the Prince, and conquers her fear by defeating the Duke of Conte.

The setting is filled with swords, adventure, intrigue, and mysticism. Alanna finds herself in a cold forest approached by the Goddess, at war, taken prisoner, and at the banquet of the King. The language used within the story helps to enhance the setting. I enjoyed hearing, “Mayhap I’m wrong. An’ then again, mayhap this’s why.” (p. 66) or “Treachery!” He snapped. “Merciful Mother, we should have guessed!” (p. 100)

The author has clear messages that she inputs within the story. First and foremost she portrays her female protagonist as strong and capable of anything a man can do. “ In the three years she had been disguised as a boy, she had learned that boys know girls as little as girls know boys. It didn’t make sense—people are people, after all..” (p. 3) It reinforces within young girls that people are people. If you desire to achieve greatness in life you must not allow your gender to make a difference. The author also explains that although it may be the “custom to yell insults and challenges at an opponent” that it is a “was a waste of breath.” (p. 30) I appreciated how she goes on to explain through Alanna that, “just because he behaves badly is not excuse for me to behave badly.” (p. 34) Alanna has opportunities to behave badly but in every circumstance she uses the laws of Chivalry first and foremost.

The only problem I had with the story is that I kept wondering how in the world her companions did not guess she was a boy. Was her voice deep? Did she walk like a man? How did she learn to completely disguise herself so well? It was a tad unbelievable to me but then again, this is fantasy at its finest. Then when we learn that some are beginning to realize that she is a girl no one has a fit, wants her beheaded, or seems angry about being deceived. Disguising herself as a boy was a burden to Alanna. “The only thing she still looked forward to was the relief of telling everyone who she was.” (p. 174) Then in the story this phrase helped the story make sense to me. “You have learned the laws of Chivalry… Keep them in your heart. Use them as your guides when things are their darkest. They will not fail you if you interpret them with humanity and kindness. A knight is gentle. A knights’ first duty is to understand.” (p. 178) I assume that since the other men where knights there job was to “understand” why Alanna disguised herself and was the reason why they were so accepting of this revelation.

As stated by SLJ, this novel is a “timeless story of magic, adventure, and a strong female character.”

C. REVIEW EXCEPTS
School Library Journal: Alanna of Trebond continues her masquerade as Alan in this, the second book in the Song of the Lioness quartet by Tamora Pierce. The story spans Alanna's fours years as Prince Jonathan's squire. During this time, Alanna participates in her first war, battles against Jonathan's evil uncle, Duke Roger, meets the Great Mother Goddess and experiences first love, all the while maintaining her guise as a boy.

D. CONNECTIONS
*Research the laws of chivalry, do they exist today? If so, in what form?
*Why was Alanna afraid of love?
*Write a poem that describes the strength and character of Alanna.

Visit Tamora Pierce at her website: http://www.tamora-pierce.com/books.html

Other books in the series:
Book 1: Alanna: The First Adventure. 2005. ISBN: 978-0689878558
Book 3: The Woman Who Rides Like A Man. 2005. ISBN: 978-0689878589
Book 4: Lioness Rampant. 2006. ISBN: 978-0689878572

MODULE 3: ADVENTURE, SPORTS, & MYSTERY

I’D TELL YOU I LOVE YOU BUT THEN I WOULD HAVE TO KILL YOU

A. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Carter, Ally. 2006. I’d Tell You I Love You But Then I Would Have To Kill You. New York, NY: Hyperion Paperbacks. ISBN 139781423100041

B. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Young adult girls will enjoy this novel filled with secret spy training adventures. The author chose the perfect setting for the high stake adventure. A prestigious boarding school sets the stage for these above average, young, intelligent agents, who learn to speak 14 different languages while learning highly classified skills. It’s refreshing to read girls portrayed as talented geniuses learning how to do a “man’s” job. The school is found in the midst of small town Roseville, Virginia. The people believe the girls who attend this academy are nothing but snooty girls from wealthy families. As exceptional as the girls are depicted, the reader will come to see that they are just like any other girl, with feelings of insecurity, and secret longings.

Almost immediately the novels adventure begins when a CODE RED is announced. Walls turn, foyers change, new posters are displayed, and the school transforms itself into a normal boarding school for girls. As outlandish as the plot can be, the author made each sequence of events heartfelt girly emotions that readers will connect with. Cammie, who narrates the story states: “I don’t’ know about regular girls, but when you’re a spy, getting dressed to go out can be something of a production.” (p. 142) I know with my normal thirteen year old getting dressed is always a production. Cammie also feels that life is filled with contradictions; “all I’ve heard for the last three years has been: Don’t hesitate, but be patient. Be logical—trust your instincts. Follow protocol—improvise. Never let your guard down—always look at ease. So, see, if you give a bunch of teenage girls those kinds of messages, then , yeah, eventually things are going to get interesting.” (p. 103) The protagonist deals with the same inconsistencies that young girls feel adults converse to them today. The author continues to have her protagonist, Cammie, connect with young adults by having her state: “All these years I’d thought being a spy was challenging. Turns out, being a girl is the tricky part.” (p.144) Being a girl is tricky and can be complicated. The protagonist Cammie is a likable character that readers will connect to. She’s smart yet insecure. She knows that her friends will always be there for her. She feels pressure to follow in her parents footsteps. She worries about her classes and grades, thinks about boys, and is concerned with her looks. The only disappointing part of the novel is that Cammie does not get a chance to work on a “dangerous” covert operation. “The stakes never seem very high since there are no real villains...” (SLJ)
This novel does not provide girls with an insightful or thought provoking message. It simply allows young adult girls to escape from real life dilemmas and live an adventurous double life through Cammie.

C. REVIEW EXCEPTS
School Library Journal: Cammie Morgan, 15, is a student at Gallagher Academy, a top-secret boarding school for girls who are spies-in-training. She studies covert operations, culture and assimilation, and advanced encryption, and has learned to speak 14 languages. Her troubles begin when she falls for Josh, a local boy who has no clue about her real identity. Keeping her training secret forces her to lie to her new love, which leads to comic complications.
Publishers Weekly: Set in a spy school for girls, this entertaining novel centers on 15-year-old Cammie, the headmistress's daughter, who must decide if she is cut out for a life of secrets. Though the plot takes a while to unfold, fun details and characters will keep readers engaged

D. CONNECTIONS
*Cammie mentions that society tends to underestimate women. Do you believe this statement to be true? Why or Why not.
*Cammie states: “I knew that the only thing I could do was keep putting one foot in front of the other, hoping none of the secrets on my shoulders would make me lose my balance.” (p. 223) What do secrets do to our lives?
*Cammie doesn’t believe she’s “normal.” What is normal? Does it even exist?

Visit Ally Carter at her Website: http://www.allycarter.com/

Other novels by Ally Carter:Don’t Judge a Girl by Her Cover. 2009. ISBN: 9781423116387
Cross My Heart Hope to Spy. 2008. ISBN: 1423100069
Cheating at Solitare. 2005. ISBN: 9780425205747

LAST SHOT: A FINAL FOUR MYSTERY

A. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Feinstein, John. 2005. Last Shot: A Final Four Mystery. New York, NY: Alfred A. Knopf. ISBN 0375931686

B. CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Feinstein did an excellent job of writing a mystery novel that mixes adventure, danger, mystery, and the fun of sports all in one. I am personally not a big sports fan, but as I read through the novel, I recognized authentic names within the story. This aspect helped to make the story more realistic in nature. “References to real players and coaches mingle, almost eerily, with the fictitious characters.” (SLJ 2005) The premise, or plot of the story, was executed in a way that made it believable. Two students win a contest to be junior sports writers for a final four basketball event. I appreciated that Feinstein added a girl as a winner, described her as pretty and also made her knowledgeable. There are many young adult girls who love sports and adding a strong female character helps validate the love and appreciation girls have for the game of basketball.
The novel highlights the importance of achieving goals, writing unbiased and authentic journaling, seeking justice and truth, and it shows the not so nice side of sports as well. It does not preach out loud about ethics but places the ethics of character, sportsmanship, and rules of the game into the context of the story. The novel leads the reader to its own conclusions through the actions and decisions made by the characters within the novel. Steve and Susan, the main protagonists who won the contest are dumfounded that a professor of ethics is the culprit behind the blackmailing going on in this story. Steve realizes that “fair-and-unbiased-reporter thing was harder than it looked.” (p.20) As the two young journalist accidentally hear a player being forced to throw the final game Stevie mentions: “he felt like he was leaving a movie. But there was no leaving. Now he and Susan Carol were part of the movie.” (p.57) As they discuss what to do they realize, “who would believe us.” (p. 56) The two young writers have gumption and persist onward to solve the mystery of who is blackmailing the unknown player. As Kirkus Review states: this is, “No little-guy-overcoming-the-odds story, this is a tale of celebrity, big business, and corruption as witnessed by two eager and innocent fledgling reporters who must decide what to do with their unexpected knowledge.” The story will draw the reader in and keep them guessing as the two journalist work their way towards solving this mystery. "Young basketball fans will most appreciate the caper, but mystery buffs will also turn these pages eagerly." (Publishers Weekly 2005) Young adults will agree that this book is filled with elements that make this mystery novel a winner.

C. REVIEW EXCEPTS
Horn Book: As winners of a writing contest, eighth-graders Steven Thomas and Susan Carol Anderson travel to the NCAA Final Four as journalists. In addition to meeting college basketball celebrities, the two also uncover a plot to fix the championship game. As the fast-moving mystery takes off, the book becomes the reader's own press pass to a behind-the-scenes look at the Final Four.
Kirkus Review: When Stevie Thomas wins a sports writing contest and gets to cover the Final Four college basketball championship in New Orleans, he knows it's going to be the most unbelievable weekend of his life. And unbelievable it is, but in unexpected ways. Amidst the circus atmosphere at the Superdome-with the Blue Devils, Huskies, Coach K, Dick Vitale, and the clamor of hawkers, scalpers, and the best sportswriters in America-Stevie and his co-winner Susan Carol overhear a plot to throw the championship game.
School Library Journal: This action-packed mystery is set at the NCAA Final Four men's basketball tournament. Eighth-graders Steven Thomas and Susan Carol Anderson are aspiring journalists and winners of the U.S. Basketball Writer's Association 14-and-under writing contest. Their prize is a trip, with press credentials and reporting responsibilities, to the Final Four in New Orleans. While exploring the Superdome, they overhear a blackmail threat leveled at Minnesota State University's star player. Threatened with a falsified transcript that would disqualify him and his team, Chip Graber is pressured to deliberately lose the final game against Duke. Stevie and Susan Carol become resourceful sleuths determined to save Chip and to expose the scandal. Throughout the story, famous basketball personalities make memorable guest appearances, including spirited sports analyst Tony Kornheiser and irrepressible commentator Dick Vitale.

D. CONNECTIONS

*Stevie mentions that this event would be a first-in-a-lifetime experience. What does he mean and do you believe it’s possible?
*Stevie and Susan do not feel as if they can turn to an adult and tell them what they know. Is this a true picture of how adults react to young adults approaching them with news?
*What role do ethics play in sports today?

To learn more about John Feinstein visit: http://www.randomhouse.com/author/results.pperl?authorid=8500

*Other related novels by John Feinstein:
Change Up: Mystery at the World Series. 2009. ISBN 9780375856365
Cover Up. 2008. ISBN 9780440422051
Vanishing Act. 2008. ISBN 9780440421252

HARRIS AND ME

A. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Paulsen, Gary. 1993. Harris and Me. Orlando, Florida: Harcourt Brace & Company. ISBN 0152928774

B. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Gary Paulsen has written a tale filled with rip roaring fun. The story is narrated by an 11 year old boy who has been sent from family to family to escape his alcoholic parents. The author used an appropriate setting, country life, a location that is as wide and as free as the imagination can carry you. Immediately we are introduced to the narrator’s cousin Harris and his colorful language as he states: “We heard your folks was puke drunks, is that right?” Glennis, his sister, slaps him across the head and Harris declares, “Well you can just blow it out your butt, you old cow. You ain’t no grown up to tell me what to do. How the hell am I supposed to know things if I don’t go ahead and ask them?” (p.7) And so commences the tone of the story, a journey of curiousness that ensues between Harris and his newly acquired cousin. The characters as very likable and keep the novel fresh and fun. Harris will appeal to the fun adventurous side of life. The main protagonist, the narrator, will connect with readers who long for a place to call home, a family to love, and a friendship that fills the void. “Paulsen never loses sight of his vulnerable narrator, a classic outsider never named, who finds by the end of his summer a place he finally belongs and people who love .” 1993)

The plot is filled with outrageous and sometimes authentic acts of craziness between the two boys. They hunt Commie Jap pigs, swing like Tarzan, try to escape the madness of a rooster named Ernie, experiment with an electric fence, and more. The two boys work the farm but have fun using their imagination in the process. “Between escapades, the two boys do a fair amount of raw work, socialize a little, and all in all spend a glorious summer together.” (Book Report 1994)

Young adults will enjoy the hilarious adventures. Their curiosity gets the best of them and at times Harris gets frustrated by his cousin as he declares, “you don’t know nothing, do you.” (p.43) I believe reluctant readers will have fun reading this novel. The two cousins keep the reader on their toes wondering what they will be up to next. “It wasn’t that we tried to get in trouble. Indeed, Harris and I did not think in terms of trouble at all. It’s just that many of the things we wanted to do—well perhaps all the things we wanted to do—seemed to cause difficulties in some way that we hand not expected.” The boys do cause havoc and place themselves in wild situations but as School Library Journal states: “Some stories push beyond believability and edge into tall-tale territory, but it doesn't matter.”(1993) It is a novel that will keep the reader begging for more. Paulsen has done a superb job of hooking the reader and engaging them through the plot of this fantastical adventurous story.

C. REVIEW EXCEPTS
Kirkus Review: As the boy explains, he's 11 years old that early-50's summer when a deputy sheriff dumps him with distant relatives on a north country farm--one in a long succession of makeshifts arranged in lieu of the parents who drink Four Roses neat from jelly jars and are "pretty much mean whenever they [are] conscious." The Larsons are sturdy, rough folk; Knute is virtually silent, though he's the source of his nine-year-old son Harris's richly profane vocabulary, which invariably elicits harsh (but ineffective) blows from "strapping" sister Glennis. In Harris's charge, the boy learns, the hard way, to avoid the cow with a brutal kick and the mouse-devouring "cat" that's actually a lynx. Ignored by their busy elders, Harris's imagination regularly gets the two into freewheeling "trouble" as dangerous as it is hilarious--trouble involving the two giant horses, or a runaway bike fitted with Harris's mother's gasoline washing-machine motor. By summer's end, the boy has learned to match Harris's wild pranks (he challenges Harris to urinate on an electric fence, with the expected result) and has fathomed the true humanity of the characters he so vividly and comically describes (the hired man gulping pancakes, syrup in his beard, is unforgettable). Just when he and the Larsons begin to regard each other as family, the boy is wrenched away. Poignantly, after one lonely letter from Harris, the book ends.
Horn Book: Set in the 1950s, the funny, earthy look at farm life, as viewed by an eleven-year-old city boy, includes laugh-out-loud passages as well as heaps of nostalgia. The narrator has been sent to live with relatives as a respite from his alcoholic parents. The book centers on his relationship with his nine-year-old cousin Harris and their exploits, experiments, and accidents during one memorable summer. What the two can't think of to try isn't worth telling!
School Library Journal: A nostalgic journey through a boy's breakneck summer. Told by a narrator recalling his experiences the summer he was 11, the stories begin with his being dropped by a deputy at the farm home of a distant relative. "`We heard your folks was puke drunks, is that right?'" asks the beguiling and reckless nine-year-old Harris almost immediately. Of course they are, but that dismal fact of life is forgotten nearly at once as Harris leads the two of them off on one wild adventure after another. As one might suspect from Paulsen, there are no ordinary characters residing on this backwoods farm: there's Vivian, the ornery, kicking cow; 300 pound pigs who don't look kindly on wrestling matches with boys; Ernie, the attack-rooster; Louie, the hired hand with strange table manners and an artistic streak; Buzzer, his pet lynx; and Harris's older sister, Glennis, who is constantly whacking him for swearing.

D. CONNECTIONS
*How did the setting help the believability of this story?

*What did it mean to the narrator when he found the diorama of Harris’ family with a miniature of him included?
*What impact do you believe that summer had upon the narrator.

To learn more about Gary Paulsen visit: http://www.randomhouse.com/features/garypaulsen/about.html

Other novels by Gary Paulsen:
Lawn Boy. 2009. ISBN 9780553494655
Mudshark. 2009. ISBN 9780385746854
Tracker. 2007. ISBN 9781416939405

MODULE 2: REALISM, ROMANCE, & CENSORSHIP

HOPE WAS HERE

A. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Bauer, Joan. 2000. Hope Was Here. New York, NY: G.P. Putnam’s Sons. ISBN: 0399231420

B. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Joan Bauer has written a novel that conveys the message of hope. Hope for new beginnings, hope for a second chance, and hope for the goodness in life. The book offers a look into the difference one voice can collectively make within our political process. The protagonist, sixteen year old Hope, is being raised by Aunt Addie. Hope states: “Addie always keeps her promises. That’s why my mother gave me to her.” (p.22) The setting takes place in rural Wisconsin mainly at the Welcome Stairways Diner. Hope, who is not thrilled to be in a small town area, knows that Addie has promised that if this place is not right for them they will leave. As Hope allows herself to enjoy her new environment, she begins to understand herself better. The plot is believable and it places a heavy emphasis on the political process up front and in a personal way. As you progress through the novel you desire for G.T. to beat the incumbent in the upcoming election. Bauer is able to make her characters come alive and speak to the reader such as when G. T. is heard saying: “You want to know why to vote for a man who’s fighting for his life? We heard G.T. say, Because no one understands how sweet life can be, how blessed every minute is , how important it is to say and do what’s right while you’ve got the time, more than a person who’s living with a short wick.” (p.54) The novel points out the importance of making each day count. It also paints a realistic picture of politics. It demonstrates to teenagers that politics can get ugly, messy, and be down right dirty. Bauer even expresses within the novel that if you believe in something you must be willing to get burned in the process of fighting for what you believe in. “When a man said he didn’t think politics could help anyone anymore, G.T. said one person can make a difference, two can lift a burden, an more than that can start a revolution.” (p110) The reader will observe how Hope and her friends face their challenges head on and how those challenges become their strengths. It demonstrates that teens do have a place in society and can make a difference. Mixed within the story is a little romance between Hope and the cook Braverman and Addie and G.T. It places a sweet mix within a bitter plot of dirty politics.
There is no fairy tale ending to this novel. It offers a realistic journey of life. Hope understands through her hardships that life is what you make it. You can cook up sorrow or you can mix in some hope and taste life more sweetly. Hope chooses to savor the sweetness of life no matter how small the morsels may be. Her character is one that will offer young adult readers a recipe for staying true to you. Since this novel has a heavy emphasis on politics I believe it will have appeal to not only girls but boys as well. The book is well written and will appeal to readers between 12 to 18 years of age.

C. REVIEW EXCEPTS

Horn Book: The value of work has always been one of Bauer's consistent themes, and Hope takes great pride in her job: she's a short-order waitress who has come from Brooklyn with her aunt Addie to run a small-town diner in Wisconsin, its proprietor sidelined by leukemia. Hope, now sixteen, has lived with Addie since being left by her mother, who, in addition to having more of a gift for waitressing than she did for motherhood, had the dubious taste to name her daughter Tulip, which Hope changed as soon as she hit twelve. Addie and Hope, long peripatetic, find a new life in Wisconsin as well as a cause: G.T., the owner of the diner, has decided to take on the corrupt Eli Millstone, challenging his long incumbency as mayor. After telling another waitress her mother's Number One Cardinal Rule of Waitress Survival-"DO NOT, UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES, DATE THE COOK"-Hope does anyway, and her tentative romance with Braverman is sweet indeed. Hope is a strong girl in a strong story, its humor warm and real.

Booklist: Like Bauer's other heroines, Hope is a typical teenage girl who works hard, excels at her part-time job, and plans for her future. The adults around her, though mostly one-dimensional, together create a microcosm of society--the best and the worst of a teenager's support system. It's Bauer's humor that supplies, in Addie's cooking vernacular, the yeast that makes the story rise above the rest, reinforcing the substantive issues of honesty, humanity, and the importance of political activism. Serve this up to teens--with a dash of hope.

School Library Journal: When it comes to creating strong, independent, and funny teenaged female characters, Bauer is in a class by herself and the 16-year-old waitress in this book is no exception. Hope Yancey and her Aunt Addie, a much-sought-after diner cook, have toured the country, one diner at a time. With each move, the teen leaves her mark, "HOPE WAS HERE," in ballpoint pen somewhere on the premises. Now in Mulhoney, WI, she has no idea that the residents of this small town will make their mark on her. G. T. Stoop, the Quaker owner of the Welcome Stairways, has leukemia, and while the disease can keep him from running the diner he loves, it can't keep him from running for mayor against a corrupt incumbent. Taking part in his campaign allows Hope to get to know Braverman, a fellow worker at the Welcome Stairways and G. T.'s greatest supporter. The mix of dealing with illness, small-town politics, and budding romance for both Hope and Addie is one that will entertain and inspire readers.

D. CONNECTIONS
*Discuss politics. What are their beliefs about the system? Do they feel their voice will count when they can vote? How can they make a difference for their country today?
*What did Hope mean when she stated, “A father isn’t woven from strings of DNA.” (p.175) Was she jipped by life to only have a father for less than two years?

Joan Bauer’s Website: http://www.joanbauer.com/
Other novels by Joan Bauer:
Peeled. 2009. ISBN 9780142414309
Rules of the Road. 2005. ISBN 9780142404256
Best Foot Forward. 2006. ISBN 9780142406908



A BRIEF CHAPTER IN MY IMPOSSIBLE LIFE

A. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Reinhardt, Dana. 2007. A Brief Chapter In My Impossible Life. New York: NY: Wendy Lamb Books. ISBN: 9780375846915

B. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Dana Reinhardt has written and exceptional first novel that immerses the reader into the life of Simone and her birth mother Rivka. I enjoyed how this novel is written in first person. Simone talks to the reader such as, “Let’s back up. Let me tell you about my day.” (p.2) Simone is a sixteen year old who loves to write, enjoys Eminem music, hate’s school sponsored clubs, works on her SAT vocabulary, and enjoys the company of her good friends. Simone uses candid language to discuss her life. She talks about how her friends hang out in a cornfield, smoke pot, discuss sex, drink, and attend parties. On the other hand, it was refreshing to read a novel where the teenager actually likes her parents. Of course some of their rules can be typically annoying to her but they are not portrayed as lame and hopeless. The protagonist, Simone, is a believable teenager who has a current problem. She is dealing with the fact that after sixteen years her birth mother desires to meet her. This problem is two fold, Simone is not sure what to think about God and although that doesn’t bother her at first, once her birth mother comes into her life, she begins to ponder the question of a higher being. Simone states: “Well, if God was looking out for Rivka, then you kind of have to wonder why he let her get pregnant in the first place, don’t you? But then again, if she hadn’t gotten pregnant, I wouldn’t be here. So maybe God sent me my mother. Wait a minute. I don’t even believe in God.” (p.107-108)

The setting takes place between school, home, parties, and Rivka’s house on the beach. I think it was important for the author to have Rivka live on the beach. It allowed for closeness to nature. The home is a place of refuge and solitude with the earth. The ocean brings in waves of trouble but it always recedes and goes back from where it came. Rivka and Simone will both go back from where they came and each will find solace as best as it can be made. It is important to note that the tone of this book does not leave you with a fairy tale ending. It has real life implications about choices we make. Rivka chose to let Simone go, in turn Simone was raised well. Rivka chose to leave her faith, in turn she was disowned. Simone confronts her grandfather and states, “she felt abandoned by you.” and he states, “that is unfortunate. I had no choice.” (p225) I appreciate how the author conveys to teenagers that life is complicated. It demonstrates that choices made, although they seem bad and disturbing on the outside, may be what are best for the time and circumstances.

Readers will enjoy reading the thoughts of the protagonist as she works through her problems. I was taken back at how wonderfully the author was able to incorporate and unite differing faiths. Simone and her parents are agnostic and Rivka and Simone’s love interest Zack, are Jewish. It was inspirational to read how these families could come together in unity no matter what they each believed. The author made evident how we can incorporate each others traditions and make new ones.

As the book comes to a closure Rivka tells Simone, “how I could ever have questioned my faith, because looking at you, I just can’t believe that there isnt’ a God and that he didn’t’ conspire to send you to me at the very moment when I most needed an angel in my life.” (p220) Once Rivka passes away Simone stands at her grave and recites the Kaddish saying: “Aleha ha-shalom. Peace be upon her.” (p224) It reveals to the reader that healing can take place, traditions can be made, and faith can have a place in your life.

“Due to some sexual content and strong language in Simone's friendships and school life this book may be an inappropriate selection for younger teens.” (Booklist) I suggest that this book be read by students in 8th grade and up. To quote Simone about her feelings for the book, Great Gatsby, I believe A Brief Chapter In My Impossible Life is a “kick ass book.” (p.33)

C. REVIEW EXCEPTS

Booklist: Olive skinned and dark eyed, Simone looks nothing like her fair-haired family. She is, nonetheless, the beloved daughter of her adoptive parents and enjoys a close and supportive relationship with her younger brother. It therefore comes as a terrible intrusion in Simone's comfortable life when, after 16 years, her birth mother asks to meet her. After some resistance, Simone makes contact with Rivka, a 33-year-old self-exiled Hasidic Jew who is dying of ovarian cancer. Despite a fairly transparent setup, once Simone and Rivka are brought together, their shared story is developed with skill, attention to detail, and poignancy. Both Simone and Rivka are strong, complicated characters who benefit greatly from each other: Simone is gifted with her heritage and history and thus a richer identity, and Rivka is able to leave the world having known her daughter. Some sexual content and strong language in Simone's friendships and school life may make this an inappropriate selection for younger teens. Despite a fairly transparent setup, once Simone and Rivka are brought together, their shared story is developed with skill, attention to detail, and poignancy.

School Library Journal: Simone's junior year of high school proceeds with common teen issues such as alcohol, a first boyfriend, and sex in Dana Reinhardt's fast-paced novel (Wendy Lamb Books, 2006). Simone has a secure place in a loving family and knows it, resulting in some refreshing and self-aware musing on her part which narrator Mandy Siegfried handles beautifully. Whenever appropriate, she also musters the whatever tone in her voice, giving Simone an authentic teenage sound. Simone has always known she was adopted and that her birth mother is named Rivka, but never wanted to meet her. Something is different now and her parents seem to be pressing for a meeting. Touching encounters soon reveal that her birth mother is dying from ovarian cancer. Simone becomes an angel in Rivka's life and learns how Rivka's conservative Jewish upbringing led her to leave home, give up her baby, and forge her way on her own. Facing the usual teen problems comes into a different focus as Simone encounters life's unfairness, tragedies, and blessings in a thoughtful, well-crafted story. Siegfried offers a sensitive reading that is never maudlin, making the characters come alive. A great read that deals with important teen issues.

D. CONNECTIONS
*Does meeting Rivka change Simone?
*Do you think Simone is still an atheist at the end of the book?
*What significance does tradition play in this novel.

Dana Reinhardt’s Website: http://www.danareinhardt.net/Main.htm
*Other novels by Dana Reinhardt:
How to Build a House. 2009. ISBN 9780375844546
Harmless. 2008. ISBN 9780553494976



ALONG FOR THE RIDE

A. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Dessen, Sarah. 2009. Along For The Ride. New York, NY: Viking Publishing. ISBN: 9780670011940

B. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Sarah Dessen came highly recommended to me by my thirteen year old daughter. She said each story offers a sweet love story that connects with what really happens to teens. After reading “Along for the Ride,” I can see why she enjoys this authors style of writing. Dessen takes the reader on a memorable ride with characters that young adults can connect with. I have only read this particular book by Dessen but what I found amazing is that she was able to write a fabulous, easy to read, 383 paged book without including overt sexual tones or strong language. The protagonist, Auden, is an eighteen year old who has been raised without the frills of a normal childhood. Her concentration has been academics. Her parents are divorced and she views life from an idea that people “never change.” The setting takes place mainly at her dad’s home in a town off the coast. The setting gives the summer love off a romantic beach appeal. Auden is not your typical teen. She has had a formal upbringing. Life has been filled with an academic focus. She has never been to a prom, parties, or a nightclub. She keeps to herself and does not understand girly ways. The appeal of this story is watching Auden fumble and experience life for the first time. Auden begins to believe, “maybe people can change, or at least try to. I was beginning to see evidence of it everywhere, even thought I know enough to not be convinced, just, yet.” (p. 169) Friendship is key to this story. Eli, her love interest has lost his best friend to a car accident. Auden, who has never had a best friend, learns from the girls at work what friendship is about. “We’re friends, she said, and friends are honest with each other. Even if the truth hurts.” (p. 235) The reoccurring theme of friendship, loss, and the ability for people to change is dealt with in realistic ways. Auden sees her father attempting to change his ways and past failures. Her mom is making an effort to let her children be. As Auden progresses through the book she begins to change and becomes a normal young adult. She begins to see that she likes being normal or typical. The author stresses through Auden that problems will always exist, “If you are the problem chances were you could also be the solution. The only way to find out was to take another shot.” (p. 302) What defines you is not how many times you crash but the number of times you get back on the bike.” (p. 325) Through this novel teens will learn that life is a journey but we must learn to enjoy the ride.
This book has high appeal and I would recommend it to young adults of any age.

C. REVIEW EXCEPTS

Booklist: Auden is about to start college in the fall, and decides to escape her control-freak professor mom to spend the summer with her novelist father, his new young wife, and their brand-new baby daughter, Thisbe. Over the course of the summer, Auden tackles many new projects: learning to ride a bike, making real connections with peers, facing the emotional fallout of her parents’ divorce, distancing herself from her mother, and falling in love with Eli, a fellow insomniac bicyclist recovering from his own traumas. The cover may mislead readers, as despite the body language of the girl in pink and the hunky blue-jeaned boy balanced on a bike, this is no slight romance: there’s real substance here. Dessen’s many fans will not be deterred by the length or that cover; they expect nuanced, subtle writing, and they won’t be disappointed.

Horn Book: The summer before college, Auden lives with her father, terminally perky stepmother Heidi, and newborn half-sister. Auden forms a prickly alliance with Heidi, who's not nearly as vapid as she had thought. Without judgment, Dessen explores the dynamics of an extended family headed by two flawed personalities. Rounded out with richly depicted female friendships, the story offers a summertime exploration of self-discovery.

Publishers Weekly: Studious good girl Auden, named for the poet, makes a snap decision to spend her summer before college at her father's beach house rather than with her mother, a professor whose bad habits include male grad students. Auden's parents divorced three years earlier, a split she's not yet over. Her remarried father has already produced another heir, a colicky baby named Thisbe (after a tragic figure from Shakespeare), with his young wife, Heidi, who owns a boutique. Feeling sympathy for stressed-out Heidi, Auden agrees to do the shop's bookkeeping, providing her with an instant social circle-the teenage clerks plus the boys from the neighboring bike rental, including hunky, wounded Eli. Both night owls, Auden and Eli bond when he coaxes her to experience childhood activities-bowling, food fights, learning to ride a bike-that her insufferable parents never bothered to provide. Auden's thoughtful observations make for enjoyable reading-this is solid if not "top shelf" Dessen: another summer of transformation in which the heroine learns that growing up means "propelling yourself forward, into whatever lies ahead, one turn of the wheel at a time."

D. CONNECTIONS
*Do you believe people can change? If so, is change permanent?
*How can you learn to enjoy the ride?
*What did Auden learn about her parents?

Sarah Dessen’s Website: http://www.sarahdessen.com/
Other novels by Sara Dessen:
Lock and Key. 2009. ISBN 9780142414729
Sweetheart. 2008. ISBN 9783473543328
The Truth About Forever. 2006. ISBN 9780142406250