BIBLIOGRAPHY:
Alexie, S. and Forney, E. (2007). The absolutely true diary of a part-time Indian.
New York: Little, Brown and Company
SUMMARY
Arnold Spirit is
a fourteen-year old boy living on the Spokane Indian Reservation in Washington.
He was born with hydrocephalus (water in the brain), which has led to a number
of health problems. In addition, his large skull, awkward lisp, and thick
glasses have made him the victim of bullying from his tribe members - teenagers
and adults alike.
Arnold
has limited opportunities on the reservation and endures bullying for his
physical disabilities. He must also deal with poverty, forced assimilation, and
relatives who abuse alcohol. With the insistence of his teacher and to gain a
better education, Arnold decides to attend a wealthier high school off the
reservation. In response to his decision,
Junior is ridiculed by his tribe and beaten by his best friend. Although, he struggles to form friendships
and define his identity as a Native American and an individual at his new
school, he decides to try out for the Reardan basketball team. Being on a team provides Junior with newfound
hope and increases his popularity with his fellow classmates. Despite his
increased acceptance he continues to face many trials throughout his time at
Reardan. In spite of all the setbacks he
continues to remain vigilant and hopeful for a better future.
CRITICAL
ANALYSIS
Alexie
uses his own experience as a child with hydrocephalus living on a reservation
to create this funny, touching, and thought provoking semi-true story about a
young man straddling two worlds, yet never completely fitting in either. Like Junior,
Alexie leaves the reservation to attend high school. To help students make a personal connection
with the story, provide the author's background and discuss the similarities
between Junior and the author’s life on the reservation. This will help reveal Alexie's personal
motivation for writing this book. Incorporate history of Indian reservations,
tribal government, education, and issues modern-day Native Americans face to
tie in the character and author’s life on a the reservation. The book also
includes illustrations by Ellen Forney. Class discussion can involve why her
artwork was included in the novel and how it contributes the story. Students
can use these illustrations as a starting point for analyzing Junior and his
search for identity and how his perceptions of himself change throughout the
course of the plot.
Connections
Books
by Sherman Alexie
War
dances
Indian
Killer
Reservation
Blues
Ten
Little Indians
The
Toughest Indian in the World
Blasphemy
Similar
books---
If I ever get out of here by Eric
Gansworth
Book
trailer https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uy7BLTcRKgo
Teaching
Ideas
--- https://www.prestwickhouse.com/press-articles/press-articles-blog/2017/03/how-to-teach-the-absolutely-true-diary-of-a-part-time-indian
Connections to the
textbook:
The Absolutely True
Diary of a Part-time Indian started out as a fiction novel and slowly phased into a
semi-autobiographical novel. Several
themes in the book deal with real issues teenagers face daily. Alienation, loneliness, friendship, racism,
bullying and loss are relevant today in every part of the world. Nationality, religion, socioeconomic status
does not exempt people from dealing with real life issues. As a society we have faced some form of
loneliness, fear, hate, and loss, this is what makes us human and helps to
unite us.
REVIEW
EXCERPT(S)
School
Library Journal Starred
Review. The teen's determination to both
improve himself and overcome poverty, despite the handicaps of birth,
circumstances, and race, delivers a positive message in a low-key manner.
Alexie's tale of self-discovery is a first purchase for all libraries.—Chris
Shoemaker, New York Public Library
SPEAK by Laurie Anderson
BIBLIOGRAPHY:
Anderson, L. (2009). Speak. New York: Penguin Group
SUMMARY brief summary of the book (100-‐150 words)
Melinda
a freshman at Merryweather High is hiding a horrible secret. The summer before her freshman year she was
involved with upperclassmen Andy Evans, who took something very special from
her. In her defense, she called the
police and the party was ruined. Everyone
blamed and despised her for calling the cops and ending the summer party. Now
she is alone and ashamed of what happened. As time passes she becomes
increasingly isolated and creates a “safe place” in a custodian’s closet. With the help of her art teacher and through
the work of an art project, she finally begins the healing process. Faced with
another altercation with Andy, she must make a difficult choice to stay silent
or reveal her inner strength and never be silent again.
CRITICAL
ANALYSIS
Laurie Halse Anderson delivers a powerful
message in this believable novel about a heroine who delivers a blow to the two-faced
world of high school. She speaks for
many alienated teenagers while demonstrating the importance of speaking up for
oneself. The story is set in New York, known
for its long and snowy winters. The setting and miserable weather offers
readers a glimpse of the coldness and isolation Melinda feels in response to
her journey to recovery. Melinda tells
her story in her own words which allows the reader to get into her thoughts and
rationale. The short paragraphs and short chapters make the book easy to read
as well as allows the reader to absorb the intense emotions detailed in each
word. I think this book would be an interesting
discussion for young adults to compare what is acceptable and not acceptable
sexual behavior.
CONNECTIONS:
Book
trailer featuring Kirsten Stewart https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ySpPkHZ66aI
More
books by Laurie Halse Anderson
Catalyst
Prom
Twisted
Wintergirls
Teaching
Ideas
Connections to the
textbook:
In the novel Speak,
the subject matter relates to modern readers. Many of the themes discussed in
the novel resemble the daily lives of young adults. All young adults have experienced isolation,
violence, sadness, guilt, and blame. Melinda’s
transformation from a weak, quiet, frightened young girl, to a fierce, “fight
for your life” teen provides a strong message about the power of change.
REVIEW
EXCERPT(S)
Anderson
expresses the emotions and the struggles of teenagers perfectly . Melinda’s
pain is palpable, and readers will totally empathize with her. This is a
compelling book, with sharp, crisp writing that draws readers in, engulfing
them in the story.” --- School Library Journal
“The
plot is gripping and the characters are powerfully drawn, but it is its raw and
unvarnished look at the dynamics of the high school experience that makes this
a novel that will be hard for readers to forget.” ---Kirkus Reviews
Feed by M.T. Anderson
BIBLIOGRAPHY:
Anderson, M. (2012). Feed.
Massachusetts: Candelwick Press
SUMMARY
Titus is a young adult living
in a futuristic world controlled by technology.
Technology has evolved and people are now implanted with an advanced
form of the internet and every social networking site called “the feed.” This super computer allows for people to
network, buy, sell, and communicate with anyone in the universe. During a spring break trip to the moon, Titus
meets Violet. They hang out at the moon
resort with friends until a strange old man from an underground organization
hacks the kids’ feeds. While at the hospital Titus and his friends lie around with nothing inside their heads for
days. Once all their feeds
have been fixed they return to Earth and everything seems to go back to normal.
Unfortunately, things don’t return to normal for Violet. Unlike the other kids, Violet had her feed
installed when she was seven and since the hack, her feed is
malfunctioning. Fixing her feed will
cost her father money that they don’t have. Violet’s condition progressively deteriorates
and Titus is left with the decision to disconnect with Violet or ultimately become
her feed.
CRITICAL
ANALYSIS
In the novel Feed, the
author introduces the reader to a futuristic world where corporations and people’s
own selfish desires have caused the destruction of the environment and all its inhabitants. In the fashion of dystopian literature,
Anderson has portrayed a society where greed and consumerism has caused havoc
and disrepair. His similarities to our
own increasing and obsessive reliance on the internet provide a wakeup call to
readers.
CONNECTIONS :
Book
trailer
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7O0xw7ni_QE
Books
with similar themes as Feed
The Giver by Lois Lowry
Monument
14 by Emmy Laybourne
The Adoration of Jenna Fox by Mary E. Pearson
Under the Never Sky by Veronica Rossi
All Our Yesterdays by Cristin Terrill
Legend by
Marie Lu
The Fifth Wave by Rick Yancey
Connections to the
textbook:
Despite the fantastic
aspects of the story, Titus and his friends behave in consistent and believable
ways. They exhibit the same characteristics as college or high school
aged adults, they attend school, eat at restaurants, and are addicted to social
media. They abide by rules set up in
this fantasy world and are quick to adjust to society’s norms based on their
own reality. The themes in Feed explore universal truths, such as
love, greed, destruction, and death. All
these are inevitable despite a person’s social, economic, and religious
standing.
REVIEW
EXCERPT(S)
“
An eerie futuristic novel …Kid’s brains are wired into the television and other
entertainment media from birth, making them totally driven by consumer
marketing. This is fiction?” ---Boston Globe
“
A darkly comic satire that can be read as a promise or a warning…Some of this
book is profane: some is savagely funny.” ---Detroit Free Press
BIBLIOGRAPHY:
A NEW YORK TIMES BOOK REVIEW Notable Book of the Year
A BOSTON GLOBE-HORN BOOK Award Winner
An Association of Booksellers for Children Booksellers’ Choice
An American Library Association Notable Children’s Book
Five starred reviews (BOOKLIST, BULLETIN OF THE CENTER FOR CHILDREN'S BOOKS, KIRKUS REVIEWS, PUBLISHERS WEEKLY, SCHOOL LIB
The mood and setting in Kraus’ Scowler is dark and creepy. The author adds tension and pacing to keep the reader engaged. The story is set in the 1980s during a meteor shower which enhances the chill factor and credibility.
Through his childhood Ry watched while his father beat and abused his mother. In an attempt to save his life and conquer the hatred and fear he has for his father, he takes on three personas: Jesus Christ, Mr. Furrington, and Scowler. Though toys, they aren't really. They represent very different parts of Ry’s personality. When faced with his past and present Ry is once again pushed to the edge. The author uses representation of the meteorite and the dying farm, to foreshadow the coming demise of Ry’s mind.
BIBLIOGRAPHY:
Backderf, D. (2012). My friend Dahmer: A graphic novel. New York: Abrams ComicArts
SUMMARY
Derf
Backderf sheds light to Jeffrey’s teenage years as a misfit who ultimately
became one of the United States most notorious serial killers. Backderf
portrays his classmate as a quiet giant, who drank too much and faked seizures
for attention. The artist and his group of friends treated the teenaged Dahmer
almost like a mascot, sneaking him into yearbook photos, bribing him to “spaz
out” at a local mall, and encouraging him to perform a “spazmatic”
sketch at the school talent show. One of Backderf’s main themes is that the
adults in Dahmer’s life ignored him and his increasingly bizarre behavior. No
one seems to have questioned his strange actions, alcoholism or prolonged
truancies from class.
CRITICAL
ANALYSIS
Backderf
creates a haunting look into the mind of a serial killer. Backderf’s use of tone creates a sympathetic
mood in his portrayal of the young Jefferey Dahmer, despite his morbid
mentality readers are sympathetic to his struggles. Perhaps looking for answers
to Dahmer’s actions, readers are continually drawn to this strange, tormented
teenager.
Backderf’s black and white drawings are expressive and
realistic. His high quality artwork enables readers to witness the world
of the 70’s teenage boys, where drinking, experimentation and lack of parental
supervision were portrayed as normal. Despite the violence exhibited by Dahmer
the reader is only shown glimpses of his thoughts of murder and homosexuality.
CONNECTIONS TO THE TEXTBOOK:
This
book is a nonfiction graphic novel.
Graphic novels encompass a wide range of areas, subjects, genres, as
well as fiction and nonfiction titles.
Graphic novels like My friend
Dahmer, have shown to engage readers and increase reading
comprehension. The author’s use of
captivating drawings and easy to understand text will keep the reader engaged
and informed.
CONNECTIONS:
Book trailer https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MxAyCtsKvbc
Movie trailer https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VX8ajObK81A
More books by Derf
Backderf
Trashed (in English
and Spanish)
True Stories #1
True Stories #2
Teaching Ideas
REVIEW
EXCERPT(S)
“Starred
Review. The tone is sympathetic and enraged (“Where were the damn adults?),
while not excusing or making the story unduly fascinating. Backderf’s writing
is impeccably honest in not exculpating his own misdeeds…and quietly
horrifying. A small, dark classic.” – Publishers Weekly.
“Starred
Review. An exemplary demonstration of
transformative possibilities of graphic narrative.” – Kirkus Reviews
BIBLIOGRAPHY:
Bardugo, L. (2015). Six of crows. New York: Henry Holt and
Company
SUMMARY
Six of Crows follows six teenagers living in the city of
Ketterdam, a city of slums and crime lords. Kaz
Brekker is promised a very large sum of money to kidnap Bo Yul-Bayur, a
scientist from the Ice Court who has created a powerful weapon that could
destroy the world.
The Ice Court is the most highly protected place in Fjerda, and Kaz won't be able to take it alone. He needs a crew. The crew is made up of thieves, gangsters, assassins, con-men, fanatics, and one wannabe demolition-man. He recruits Inej known for her ability to climb buildings and move across impossible terrain with extreme agility. Next, Kaz recruits Jesper the crew's sharpshooter. Nina is the most loyal of the group and is the only trained Grisha in the crew. Matthias a former Druskelle, soldiers from Fjerda has history with Nina. The final recruit is Wylan the son of a merchant. He serves as the brains of the operation.
The Ice Court is the most highly protected place in Fjerda, and Kaz won't be able to take it alone. He needs a crew. The crew is made up of thieves, gangsters, assassins, con-men, fanatics, and one wannabe demolition-man. He recruits Inej known for her ability to climb buildings and move across impossible terrain with extreme agility. Next, Kaz recruits Jesper the crew's sharpshooter. Nina is the most loyal of the group and is the only trained Grisha in the crew. Matthias a former Druskelle, soldiers from Fjerda has history with Nina. The final recruit is Wylan the son of a merchant. He serves as the brains of the operation.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Six of Crows, a fantasy novel, follows the journey of six main
characters through a third-person omniscient narrative. The setting is in the city of Ketterdam, a
dark, dreary place filled with an abundance of crime, shady leaders and a
notorious prison called the Ice Court.
Although the story is fictional, the author has recreated the setting to
resemble 18th century Europe.
The tone and mood of the story is a combination of suspense, mystery and
action. The major conflict of the novel
is to rescue Bo Yul-Bayur an inventor trapped in a highly guarded prison.
CONNECTIONS TO THE TEXTBOOK:
The
Six of Crows is classified as a fantasy despite the fantastic
aspects of the story, the characters behave in consistent and believable ways.
CONNECTIONS:
Book trailer https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3iE_ZkebUzo
More books by Leigh
Bardugo
REVIEW
EXCERPT(S)
“Six of Crows is a twisty and elegantly crafted masterpiece that
thrilled me from the beginning to end” – New York Times
BIBLIOGRAPHY:
Black, H. (2013). The coldest girl in Coldtown. New York: Little, Brown and Company
SUMMARY
Tana is a young girl living in a world where vampires are
part of the community. A terrible epidemic
has spread and people everywhere are becoming Cold. Although
Coldtowns were created to keep healthy humans safe, they have become areas
where predatory vampires are glorified and humans have willingly become the
prey. One morning after a party Tana
wakes up surrounded by corpses. The only
other survivors of this gruesome attack are her ex-boyfriend Aiden and Gavriel,
a mysterious boy. After a narrow escape
from the crime scene, Tana is determined to save them and embarks on a journey
to the heart of Coldtown. Unfortunately,
once you've entered Coldtown, you cannot leave.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS
The coldest girl in Coldtown is a fantasy novel
where the protagonist, Tana is faced with a life threating dilemma. The setting
is a place where vampires and humans coexist and death lurks all around. A place where merciless vampires are living
in luxury, while men, women and children are living in rundown, filthy,
abandoned hovels. The author uses
flashbacks of Tana’s early years to inform the reader of her brush with a cold one
and her fear of becoming cold. Tana has a definite weakness for bad boys and is an
adrenaline junkie. She may not the most reliable person but faced with Coldtown
and Gavriel, she pulls it together. The author uses our love for voyeurism to
normalize the inhabitant’s fascination with death and danger. Black’s clever
use of small snippets of dark literature set the mood and tone for each
chapter.
CONNECTIONS TO THE TEXTBOOK:
Despite the fantastic
aspects of the story, Tana and Aidan behave in consistent and believable ways.
They exhibit the same characteristics as young adults, they attend parties, are
hooked on reality TV, and are camera obsessed. Tana exhibits believable traits
as she is concerned for others safety, shown in her willingness to enter
Coldtown despite the rule once inside no one leaves. She also is trusting of
others and believes everyone has a little bit of good inside. She is fearful for her sister when she finds
out that she is in Coldtown and sacrifices her own freedom to save her
sister. The themes in the novel explore universal truths, such as love,
hate, destruction and death. Everlasting
life or immortally is an exception to the rule.
CONNECTIONS:
Book trailer https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Tk3BkaCH7o
Movie clip https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F0nSwPPI3qo
More books by Holly
Black
OTHER BOOKS ALONG THE SAME THEME
Interview With a Vampire by Anne Rice
Sabella
and the Blood Stone by Tanith Lee
The
Vampire Tapestry by Suzy
McKee Charnas
Sunglasses
After Dark by Nancy
Collins’
Twilight Saga by Stephenie Meyer
REVIEW
EXCERPT(S)
“This
superior, dread-soaked tale will satisfy…all ages.” – Publisher’s Weekly,
starred review
“Quick paced
and thought-provoking.” –SLJ, starred
review
“With
rapid-fire dialogue, lavish details, and a wildly imagined world, this will
enthrall Black’s fans from start to finish.” –
Booklist, starred review
"Replete
with grisly violence, an intriguingly complex take on the mechanics of
vampirism, and well-developed and memorable characters, this superior,
dread-soaked tale will satisfy vampire addicts of all ages." —Publisher's Weekly (starred)
"You
may be ready to put a stake in vampire lit, but read this first: It’s dark and
dangerous, bloody and brilliant." —Kirkus
Reviews (starred)
BIBLIOGRAPHY:
Garden, N. (1982). Annie on my mind. New York: Farrar,
Straus and Giroux
SUMMARY
Annie on my mind is a
non-traditional love story about Annie and Liza whose friendship blossoms into
love. The
two girls meet at the Metropolitan Art Museum in New York. Both Liza and Annie
are passionate museum browsers. Both love medieval lore and history and both
have a flare for the dramatic. They are instantly drawn to each other, and
their friendship grows quickly and deeply. Although they live very different lives, Liza attends a private high school and comes from a
white-collar family, and Annie attends a public school and comes from a
lower-income part of town,
both girls begin to realize that they are quite similar. As their relationship deepens
the girls are unable to deny their sexual attraction and make the decision to
come to terms with their homosexuality.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Annie on my mind is a dynamic, sympathetically written story of friendship,
love, intellectual companionship, prejudice, and social standards. The story
portrays two academically active young women who are discovering their own
ambitions as well as love.
Liza wants to be an architect while Annie dreams of becoming a singer. Both women are
from stable and loving homes. The writer is clearly empathetic to the situation
of young people who discover their homosexual orientation and find themselves
faced with their own uncertainty and others' judgment. The characters in the
book are believable, and resemble young women struggling for freedom of choice.
The author’s treatment of homosexuality and acceptance may be helpful to young
people wrestling with their own issues of sexual identification.
CONNECTIONS TO THE TEXTBOOK:
Annie and Liza are consistent with the real world in which
contemporary kids live. They experience
love for each other and are afraid of what others may think of them. The author genuinely created two characters
who are educated, eloquent and knowledgeable.
Liza and Annie share a common love for each other, museums and
family. The author’s description of
both women and their love for each other is realistic while avoiding stereotypes.
The theme emerges naturally from the story, and the love between the girls is
natural and never forced upon the reader.
Modern readers are more open to books about homosexuality and Annie on
my mind has become a springboard for women around the world.
CONNECTIONS:
Book trailer https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ppRtHPFXzzk
More books by Nancy
Garden
REVIEW
EXCERPT(S)
“A
tender, bittersweet love story.” –Young Adult Reviewers’ Choice/Booklist
“Departs
from the fact-packed preachiness of the problem novel to become instead a
compelling story of two real and intriguing young women. There have been many books for teenagers,
fiction and nonfiction, that give lots of useful and accurate information about
homosexuality; here’s one that tells what it feels like, one that has, finally,
romance.” –Starred/ School Library Journal
BIBLIOGRAPHY:
Gephart, N. (2016). Lily and Dunkin. New York: Delacorte
Press
SUMMARY
Lily and Dunkin is about a transgender girl named Tim and his
friend Norbert. Both boys are hiding a
painful secret. Tim McGrother (aka Lily Jo McGrother ) has known since he was
very small that he wants to be a girl. His mother and sister are reasonably
supportive, but his father and grandmother are having a difficult time
accepting his wishes. He is bullied at school, despite not having yet come out
as transgender. His best friend is pushing him to wear dresses to school and
stand up to his father. Emotionally Tim/Lily is ready to prove to everyone he
is ready to come out but is still afraid of the physical and emotional
repercussions inflicted by others. Norbert
(Dunkin, named after his favorite donut shop) has just moved from New Jersey to Florida and is struggling with both bipolar
disorder and the absence of his father. One
summer morning, while Dunkin is walking back from Dunkin donuts he sees a
pretty blue eyed girl in a red dress and their lives change forever.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS
This book is a realistic fiction and deals with
multiple themes including friendship, bullying, grief, acceptance, transgender,
lesbian and bipolar issues. It is written in a dual first-person
narrative. The point of view alternates when it switches from Lily to
Dunkin. Both characters share a common
desire, they want to be accepted by their peers and family. Their family’s guidance, care and approval play
an essential role in Lily and Dunkin’s self-acceptance. The author’s use of expressive text creates
empathy toward transgender and bipolar teens in today’s society.
CONNECTIONS TO THE TEXTBOOK:
Unfortunately, everything Lily
and Dunkin face in the novel is consistent with real world issues in which
contemporary kids live. Realistic
teen dialogue, behavior (bullying), and transgender and mental topics are believable
and reflect the contemporary world. When addressing this criteria, the author
uses gender and cultural elements to design a realistic and engaging novel
while avoiding society’s stereotypes regarding these conditions and life
choices.
The transgender theme emerged
quite suddenly while Dunkin’s bipolar disorder and his father’s suicide was introduced
later in the story. The author was able
to incorporate the themes naturally and realistically. The novel did not feel preachy or moralistic.
CONNECTIONS:
Book
trailer https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=07KniLJp7q4
More books by Donna
Gephart
Death by toilet paper
Olivia Bean, Trivia queen
How to survive middle school
As is being 12 ¾ isn’t bad enough, my mother
is running for president
Teaching Ideas
Teachers can discuss transgender and bipolar
issues with their students and visit some web sites cited in the book.
Genderdiversity.org
National Alliance on Mental Illness
(nami.org)
REVIEW
EXCERPT(S)
“Though in less skillful hands this might have turned into a problem
novel, it is, instead, a thoughtfully and sensitively written work
of character-driven fiction that dramatically addresses two important
subjects that deserve more widespread attention.” —Booklist starred
review
Harris, R. (2009). It’s perfectly normal. Boston, MA:
Candlewick Press
SUMMARY
Harris frankly explains the physical, psychological, emotional
and social changes that occur during puberty--and the implications of these
changes. Harris also discusses such subjects as sexual orientation, sexual
reproduction, pregnancy, birth control, sexually transmitted diseases and
sexual abuse.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS
The author
intentionally and effectively repeats certain crucial information, especially
on the subject of the possible consequences of sexual intercourse. The book is playful and realistic and may be a little graphic
for children under the age of thirteen.
My seventeen-year-old daughter read it and she expressed how informative
it was. She was surprised to see some
of the topics mentioned in the book which are usually considered off limits
with parents. She did think the
illustrations were a little graphic for a child under 10. The author makes it apparent that we are all
physically and emotionally different and we should not be embarrassed about how
our bodies work and feel. Emberley's watercolor-and-pencil
art reinforces Harris's message that bodies come in all sizes, shapes and
colors—and that it is ``perfectly
normal.'' Cartoon panels illustrate various complicated processes (e.g.,
menstruation, the fertilization of an egg, childbirth).
CONNECTIONS TO THE TEXTBOOK:
Unfortunately, I did not locate any information in the book
about Robie Harris’ qualifications. He
did have an abundance of resources, doctors, health professionals, scientists
and other qualified personnel to assist in the making of the book. The facts are as accurate as possible and include
any new medical discoveries within the time of publication.
The purpose of the book is to inform children and teens
about their bodies, sex, and sexual health.
These facts can help them to stay healthy, and make good decisions. The
organization of the book and visuals are fundamental tools that were used to inform
and engage the reader.
CONNECTIONS:
More books by Robie
Harris
It’s So Amazing! A
book about eggs, sperm, birth, and families
It’s not the stork! A
book ablout girls, boys, babies, bodies, families and friends.
Book with similar
theme
What’s happening to my
body? Book for boys by Lynda Madaras
Teaching Ideas
banned book https://www.npr.org/2014/09/21/350366435/it-may-be-perfectly-normal-but-its-also-frequently-banned
AWARDS
A BOSTON GLOBE-HORN BOOK Award Winner
An Association of Booksellers for Children Booksellers’ Choice
An American Library Association Notable Children’s Book
Five starred reviews (BOOKLIST, BULLETIN OF THE CENTER FOR CHILDREN'S BOOKS, KIRKUS REVIEWS, PUBLISHERS WEEKLY, SCHOOL LIB
BIBLIOGRAPHY:
Hautman, P. (2005). Invisible. New York: Simon
& Schuster Books for Young Readers.
SUMMARY
Douglas MacArthur Hanson, and his
best friend Andy Morrow share everything.
They have been best friends since they were children, however they are
both in different places in their life. Doug is the weirdo kid in school, being
picked on by everyone and Andy is the popular kid, into football and
theater. The two discuss everything,
except for what happened at the Tuttle Place three years ago. Meanwhile, Doug is obsessed with his trains
and building a bridge between East Madham and West Madham. As he begins to question his memory and why
his parents and psychologist have him on meds, he starts to uncover what
happened at the Tuttle Place.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS COMMENTARY
The story is told from the perspective of its narrator. In the beginning of the story the author
describes Doug and Andy as best friends, but we only see Doug’s side of the
relationship. This lack of connection
with Andy gives the reader a clue that the friendship may not be real. The tone of the story is suspenseful and
remorseful. Doug seems very sad and
disconnected from reality. Some of the
themes in the book include mental illness, friendship, arson, bullying and
death.
CONNECTIONS TO THE TEXTBOOK
The subject of mental illness and depression
is consistent with the real world in which contemporary kids live. Society has seen an increase in depression
and suicide in young teens as more and more kids have come forward about being
bullied. Doug’s crush calls him a
“worm” which reflects the same speech, and behavior of teens in our
society. The author did use stereotypes
when he describes Doug as being geeky and weird, while Andy is described as a
jock and popular. The theme emerges
naturally. The reader knows something is wrong with Doug but is not really sure
until Doug starts asking his mom why someone has moved into Andy’s house. Many
themes are used like depression, friendship, death and bullying,
CONNECTIONS:
Book trailer - I couldn’t find any book
trailers I liked. Several of them had misspelled words and were not very good.
More books by Pete
Hautman
Teaching Ideas
Writing tips by the
author http://www.petehautman.com/writing-tips1.html
REVIEW
EXCERPT(S)
Gr.
7-10. It's hard to tell if Hautman meant this to be a mystery, but it's clear
from the start that there's something not right about the relationship between
narrator Doug Hanson and his best friend, Andy Morrow. Doug, a self-proclaimed
nerd, is primarily interested in building a matchstick replica of the Golden
Gate Bridge for his model railway town. Andy is popular, a football player and
actor. But the boys live next door to each other and talk from their bedroom
windows at night. In an almost robotic voice that still manages to be intensely
insightful, Doug takes readers to his school, where he is mocked and eventually
beaten, and to his neighborhood, where he turns into a Peeping Tom, watching
school star Melanie Haver undress. Hautman does a superb job of crafting the
odd sanctuary that is Doug's mind. But Doug's defenses are crumbling, and the
secret he's been keeping about Andy is oozing through the cracks. The truth
about Andy won't come as a surprise, but there are some unexpected plot turns
here, and the chilling but ambiguous denouement is definitely
unsettling. Ilene Cooper. ---Booklist
BIBLIOGRAPHY:
King, A (2014). Glory O’Brien’s history of the
future. New York: Little, Brown books for young readers.
SUMMARY
Glory is about to graduate from high school and hasn't a clue
what she wants to do with her life. Glory's
mom, Darla, killed herself when Glory was three. Her dad is still too broken to be of much
help. Glory is still coping with the aftermath of her mother’s death, and the
fact that absolutely no one in her life will talk about it makes her dwell on
it even more. Her “best friend” Ellie who lives across her is not a very good
friend and mainly cares about herself. So with no one to support her Glory trudges
through life, being apprehensive and obsessed with picture taking (a hobby of
her mother's), not knowing if she will have a future, let alone what it will
entail.
CRITICAL
ANALYSIS COMMENTARY
Ellie
is trying to cope with the loss of her mother and is afraid of the future ahead
of her. Although she has a friend Ellie
doesn’t like her very much and only “puts up” with her. One night the girls mix the remains of a
mummified bat with their beer and began having visions of the future and
past. These visions help Glory
understand how the love of her father and of her mother has shaped her into a
strong woman. Through the visions she
sees the future of women and how society is constantly putting pressure on them
especially young girls. The story is filled with human existence themes, dark
humor, emotional resonance, feminism and artistry.
Connections to the textbook:
Despite the fantastic aspects of the story, Glory’s behavior is
still consistent with teenagers her age.
She questions society, friends and her future. Glory’s uncertainty towards Ellie and her
struggle with whether or not she wants to end the friendship is realistic and
depicts a problem most people experience.
CONNECTIONS:
Book trailer – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jSE-KZiN8zU
More books by A.S.
King
Teaching Ideas
REVIEW
EXCERPT(S)
"Wickedly
clever...a genre-busting battlefield of a book."―Bestselling author
Rick Yancey for The New York Times
* "This beautifully strange, entirely memorable book will stay with readers."―School Library Journal, starred review
*"Not only thoroughly original but also uniquely compelling and deeply memorable."―Horn Book, starred review
* "A novel full of provocative ideas and sharply observed thoughts about the pressures society places on teenagers, especially girls."―Publishers Weekly, starred review
* "This beautifully strange, entirely memorable book will stay with readers."―School Library Journal, starred review
*"Not only thoroughly original but also uniquely compelling and deeply memorable."―Horn Book, starred review
* "A novel full of provocative ideas and sharply observed thoughts about the pressures society places on teenagers, especially girls."―Publishers Weekly, starred review
BIBLIOGRAPHY:
Kraus, D.(2013). Scowler. New York: Delacorte.
SUMMARY
Nineteen-year-old Ry Burke, his mother, and little sister make
a living on their dying family farm. Ry wishes for anything to distract him
from the grim memories of his father’s physical and emotional abuse. Then a
meteorite falls from the sky, bringing with it not only a fragment from another
world but also the arrival of his father intent on destroying the entire
family. Soon Ry is forced to defend himself by resurrecting a trio of imaginary
childhood protectors: kindly Mr. Furrington, wise Jesus, and the bloodthirsty
Scowler.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS COMMENTARY
The mood and setting in Kraus’ Scowler is dark and creepy. The author adds tension and pacing to keep the reader engaged. The story is set in the 1980s during a meteor shower which enhances the chill factor and credibility.
Through his childhood Ry watched while his father beat and abused his mother. In an attempt to save his life and conquer the hatred and fear he has for his father, he takes on three personas: Jesus Christ, Mr. Furrington, and Scowler. Though toys, they aren't really. They represent very different parts of Ry’s personality. When faced with his past and present Ry is once again pushed to the edge. The author uses representation of the meteorite and the dying farm, to foreshadow the coming demise of Ry’s mind.
I think
this book may be too graphic and disturbing for teens under 15. The author’s use of descriptive narration is
unsettling, and gory. Some of the more
gruesome scenes include Ry, his mother, and his sister which makes it hard to
continue reading. I think the author’s
intention was to make us face the ugly side of mental illness.
Connections to the textbook:
The plot was so twisted and complicated that sometimes I lost
track of the story’s main focus. The whole idea of the meteorite was supposed
to be a driving force in the story, but it lost track around halfway through. I
was not sure where the novel was headed in the first half, and it lacks a clear
focus on what the point of the novel is supposed to be.
CONNECTIONS:
Book
trailer http://www.danielkraus.com/books/
More books by Daniel
Kraus
REVIEW
EXCERPT(S)
“The demon offspring of Stephen King’s The Shining and
Hitchcock’s Psycho.” —Michael Grant, New York Times bestselling
author of Gone and BZRK
“A memorable, brutal assault on the senses, not for the fainthearted or delicate.” —Publishers Weekly
“A boldly visceral coming-of-age story that explores the darkest spaces in family life and the shocking resilience of the human psyche.” —Booklist
“This book has the pacing of a Stephen King movie, and it never lets up in its gruesomeness.” —School Library Journal
“A memorable, brutal assault on the senses, not for the fainthearted or delicate.” —Publishers Weekly
“A boldly visceral coming-of-age story that explores the darkest spaces in family life and the shocking resilience of the human psyche.” —Booklist
“This book has the pacing of a Stephen King movie, and it never lets up in its gruesomeness.” —School Library Journal
BIBLIOGRAPHY:
Lyga, B.(2012). I hunt killers. New York:
Little, Brown
SUMMARY
Jasper's father is a serial killer,
the worst serial killer of all time. He has killed 123...or 124, people before
getting caught, and now poor Jazz is left to grow up pretty much on his own in
a town where his name is notorious for being the child of a serial killer. As a juvenile, he was not held accountable
for his father’s crimes although he was practically groomed by his father to
learn the “family business.” Jasper
(Jazz) is extremely intelligent for his age; he's street smart, smooth-talking
and has his dear old dad's skills of persuasion. Now, there's another killer
loose in the town of Lobo's Nod, and people are starting to think it may be
him. Jazz thinks it's a serial killer,
and he's out to investigate.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS COMMENTARY
The major conflict in the story is Jazz’s fear of becoming like
his dad. He constantly questions himself and his actions because no matter how
hard he tries he feels he will always be like his father even though he
strongly opposes his moral beliefs and actions.
Lyga tells the reader everything that comes to Jazz's mind giving the
reader a direct experience in the story. He also allows us to know what the antagonist
feels almost seeing two sides of a story until they are eventually merge into
one.
The story is easy to read and
includes lots of dialogue. The mood of the story is mysterious, suspenseful and
engaging.
Connections to the
textbook:
The mystery kept me guessing and I liked how the author allowed
us to see inside Jasper’s mind. Jasper’s
“training” although disturbing was also enlightening. The psychoanalytical aspects of the book peaked
my interest about serial killers and how they think. The author provided
abundant opportunities and insight into the mind of a serial killer. I actually recommended this book to my teen
daughter because I want her to be aware of her surroundings and how some people
may have evil intentions.
CONNECTIONS:
Book
trailer https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iII2_O5n4UA
More books by Barry
Lyga
Jasper Dent series
REVIEW
EXCERPT(S)
"I Hunt Killers is an out-of-control
hearse with one busted headlight, blood on the grille, a madman at the wheel,
and laughter pouring out of the open windows. Climb in, buckle up, and go for a
ride" -- Joe Hill, Author Of Heart Shaped Box
BIBLIOGRAPHY:
Myers, W. (1999). Monster. New York: Harper
Collins.
SUMMARY
Steve Harmon, is a teenage boy in a juvenile detention center
and on trial. He uses his journal to
detail the fear, anxiety, and confusion he feels living in jail and going
through his trial. His journal allows him to write his personal and innermost
thoughts about his fear and frustration with the trial plus the possibility of
spending a part of his life in prison. Steve’s trail, fears, and thoughts are
presented as a screenplay.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS COMMENTARY
Protagonist Steve Harmon is a young
adult who has helped commit a crime where someone has been killed. Throughout the story his biggest conflict is
the idea that he doesn’t belong with these criminals. Guilty or innocent, we want him to win. We
see the entire trial through his lens.
We learn about his past, and we know what's important to him.
We learn about his past, and we know what's important to him.
As the antagonist of the story,
Petrocelli the prosecuting attorney’s, job is to Steve look like a monster. She
provides photos, and witnesses to keep Steve far away from his utmost desire:
innocence. The tone of the story is desperation and fear.
Connections to the textbook:
Some of the things I noticed while reading the book is Steve’s
feelings of fear and desperation are spot on.
I think anyone in his situation would feel the same. The author portrays Steve as a likable and
innocent kid who was at the wrong place at the wrong time. The writer also made
the journal look like Steve’s own hand writing.
We can see words underlined and in bold.
He includes plenty of emotion in anxiety in the journal. His writing reflects how a person in great
stress would express their emotions.
CONNECTIONS:
Book
trailer https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_gvRUteCtiw
More books by
Teaching Ideas
AWARDS
Monster is a multi-award-winning, provocative coming-of-age story
that was the first-ever Michael L. Printz Award recipient, an ALA Best Book, a
Coretta Scott King Honor selection, and a National Book Award finalist.
BIBLIOGRAPHY:
Ness, P. (2008). The knife of never letting go.
Cambridge, Mas.: Candlewick Press.
SUMMARY
Todd Hewitt is the only boy in a town of men.
Ever since the settlers were infected with the Noise germ, Todd can hear
everything the men think, and they hear everything he thinks. Todd is just a
month away from becoming a man, but in the midst of the cacophony, he knows
that the town is hiding something from him -- something so awful Todd is forced
to flee with only his dog, whose simple, loyal voice he hears too. With hostile
men from the town in pursuit, the two stumble upon a strange and eerily silent
creature: a girl. Who is she? Why wasn't she killed by the germ like all the
females on New World? Propelled by Todd's gritty narration, readers are in for
a white-knuckle journey in which a boy on the cusp of manhood must unlearn
everything he knows in order to figure out who he truly is. (Amazon.com summary)
CRITICAL ANALYSIS COMMENTARY
Protagonist Todd is the main
character and we take the entire journey with him, from his discovery in the
swamp until the final end. Like every hero, Todd fights an army that's tracking
him down to rob him of who he is. ,
The antagonist Mayor Prentiss
Prentisstown is behind every bad idea and every bad man in Prentisstown. He
creates Prentisstown to be a place where women and happiness don't exist. and the
mayor is responsible for villains like Aaron, whose job it is to preach lies to
the people about their misery being the will of God.
Connections to the textbook:
The Knife of Never
Letting Go is a story told from
the main character's point of view. By
using this tool the author has put limitations on some of the information. With
Todd, the reader gets to know him really well and experiences his personal
reactions to Todd is portrayed as a very moody guy who gets carried away with
emotions like anger and judgment.
CONNECTIONS:
More books by Patrick
Ness
Teaching ideas
REVIEW
EXCERPT(S)
Crack dramatic and comic timing… unforgettable… penetrating… The
cliffhanger ending is as effective as a shot to the gut.
—Booklist (starred review)
The emotional, physical, and intellectual drama is well crafted and relentless...Tension [and] suspense…are palpable throughout, mitigated by occasional moments of welcome humor.
—School Library Journal
Todd's world is a fascinating one, and the psychological and sociological impact of being unable to shut out others' thoughts—or hide your own—is creatively explored … Todd's colloquial voice is by turns defensive, belligerent, innocent, and desperate; the strength of his point of view and the subtle world-building contained in it make this series opener as promising as it is provocative.
—The Horn Book
—Booklist (starred review)
The emotional, physical, and intellectual drama is well crafted and relentless...Tension [and] suspense…are palpable throughout, mitigated by occasional moments of welcome humor.
—School Library Journal
Todd's world is a fascinating one, and the psychological and sociological impact of being unable to shut out others' thoughts—or hide your own—is creatively explored … Todd's colloquial voice is by turns defensive, belligerent, innocent, and desperate; the strength of his point of view and the subtle world-building contained in it make this series opener as promising as it is provocative.
—The Horn Book
BIBLIOGRAPHY:
St. James, J. (2007). Freak Show. New York: Hyperion.
SUMMARY
Billy a high school senior is sent to
live with his rich father in Florida. He
is not the typical, athletic senior boy. Much to the dismay of his father he
likes to dress in drag. Hoping to make a
statement at his new school he dresses like a pirate (complete with gold tooth
and mascara). In fact, after a few days,
he is beat into a coma and has to spend the next month recuperating at home. Flip
Kelly is the town’s hero, star football player and all around perfect guy, who
saved Billy from near death and agrees to tutor him while he is out of school. A
hilarious and heartwarming story about friendship and unexpected love.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS COMMENTARY
St. James writing style is fun and witty and his characters are
lovable and free spirited.
I also enjoyed the first-person narration because it allows the
reader see Billy’s quirky and insane mind.
Some of his ideas and philosophy about life are out of this world. The author does a great job of portraying
Billy as a lovable fun, bold and energetic person. Through the book I found myself thinking how
can people be so cruel to Billy just because he is different. The author used an unlikely hero to explain
how to find your own identity, look for love, live through the pressures of
high school and persevering against the odds.
CONNECTION TO THE TEXTBOOK
This realistic fiction novel is funny, creative and deals with
difficult issues like sexual orientation, bullying, transgender, and, mental
illness
CONNECTIONS:
I don’t think the book trailer does justice to
book. Not what I pictured in my head.
BOOK TRAILER https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TTXiM0Z2pos
More books like Freak Show https://www.goodreads.com/list/show/653.Best_YA_Fiction_with_GLBTQQI_themes_characters
REVIEW
EXCERPT(S)
Readers will
relish his conversational voice, naughty humor, celebrity put-downs, unabashed
exuberance, and ALL CAPS expletives.
-School
Library Journal, starred review
In Billy
Bloom, St. James has created an archetypal hero for outsiders and freaks.
-Publishers
Weekly, starred review
BIBLIOGRAPHY:
Sloan, H.G. (2014). Counting by 7s. New York: Puffin Books
SUMMARY
Willow Chance is a twelve-year-old genius, obsessed with
nature and diagnosing medical conditions, who finds it comforting to count by
7s. It has never been easy for her to connect with anyone other than her
adoptive parents, but that hasn’t kept her from leading a quietly happy
life...until now. Suddenly Willow’s world is tragically changed when her
parents both die in a car crash, leaving her alone in a confusing world.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS
COMMENTARY
This book was utterly heartbreaking. The author creates a character with complexity
and depth. He uses a terrible tragedy to
bring unlikely people together. Willow
adopted at birth is African American, the Nyguens are Asian, Dell is white and
Jairo the taxi driver is Mexican. Although
Willow thinks she doesn’t matter she touches each character with her innocence and
perseverance.
CONNECTION TO THE
TEXTBOOK
This realistic fiction novel deals with loss, friendship, perseverance,
family. Positive role models abound in
this heartwarming story that shows how grief feels but is ultimately a
celebration of the indomitable human spirit. Counting by 7s tackles complex
feelings and issues of fitting in and features characters of different
backgrounds and ethnic groups.
CONNECTIONS:
BOOK TRAILER https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yrz41FH6OMM
More books by Holly Goldberg Sloan http://hollygoldbergsloan.com/about-the-books.php
REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
“Bright and
heartfelt…an uplifting story”-- Kirkus Review
