1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Lowry, Lois. 1993. The Giver. New York, NY: Dell Laurel-Leaf. ISBN 0440237688
2. PLOT SUMMARY
This Newberry Award-winning novel is about the changes that 12-year-old Jonas undergoes as the secrets of the utopian society in which he lives are revealed to him by the “Giver.” Selected to be the next “Receiver of Memory,” Jonas gradually receives the collective memories of the past and has difficulty reconciling this knowledge with the present. He eventually realizes that the lack of social ills in his community (like crime, poverty and inequality) is at the expense of free will. He rescues an infant condemned to death and makes a daring escape into the unknown to alter the course of the future for everyone.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
At the outset of the novel, only Jonas’ light eyes and his fleeting ability to see the color red set him apart from his peers. As the burden of truth is slowly unloaded in his memory, his character grows multi-faceted. This character development is particularly apparent with his growing connection to the Giver and to the baby he rescues and his gradual detachment from other community members, including those in his own family unit.
This book demonstrates that even if a utopian society was possible, it would not necessarily be desirable. Through Jonas, the reader is given the ability to examine the human condition from the perspective of an outsider. For example, when Jonas learns that being “released” means being killed, he asks the Giver if his friend, Fiona, has participated in this cruel act. The Giver responds, “She’s very efficient at her work…Feelings are not part of the life she’s learned…Jonas, you and I are the only ones who have feelings” (153-154). This is when Jonas realizes that he can no longer condone actions that he has the capability to understand.
A number of significant issues are addressed in this story: the notion of freedom, what constitutes family and community, euthanasia, the death penalty, inequality, and even the nuances of language. Lowry brings the ignorance is bliss theory into question. While the ending is optimistic, it is definitely open to interpretation.
4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
From Booklist: “Lowry's simple, powerful prose creates an anti-utopian world where the lack of hardship, war, and poverty only covers the citizens' deeper lack of freedom.”
From Horn Book Guide: “The story is skillfully written; the air of disquiet is delicately insinuated; and the theme of balancing the values of freedom and security is beautifully presented.”
5. CONNECTIONS
*Other titles by Lois Lowry
The Messenger ISBN 0385732538
Gathering Blue ISBN 0385732562
Gossamer ISBN 0618685502
*Create an epilogue that explains what happens after the sled comes to a stop
*Draw a picture of Jonas’ world before and after his training as Receiver of Memory (black and white with hints of red vs. full-color)
*Discuss or debate controversial issues (i.e. euthanasia, death penalty) from the story
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
THE TALE OF DESPEREAUX by Kate DiCamillo
1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
DiCamillo, Kate. 2003. The Tale of Despereaux: Being the Story of a Mouse, a Princess, Some Soup and a Spool of Thread. Cambridge, MASS: Candlewick Press. ISBN 0439692202
2. PLOT SUMMARY
This Newberry Award- winning story is about how a frail, but intelligent and determined mouse rescues a princess from a devious (and perhaps misunderstood) rat who dupes a simple serving girl into being his accomplice. The first three ‘books’ individually give background information on the mouse, the rat and the serving girl and their relationship to the princess. (Book 1- Because he is seen talking to the princess, Despereaux is condemned to the dungeon by the Mouse Council. Book 2- Roscuro the rat frightens the queen to death [literally] when he forays out of the dungeon into the light. Book 3- Miggery Sow becomes a castle servant after the abusive man [to whom her father sold her] dies.) The fourth book weaves the fates of the characters together.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
The voice of the narrator as storyteller is very strong in this novel. The narrator often addresses the reader directly through questions and explanation. Sometimes the narrator’s presence is amiable and enlightening, other times it is distracting or condescending. For example, on page 45 the narrator asks, “Reader, do you know what ‘perfidy’ means? ...you should look up the word in your dictionary, just to be sure.”
A number of themes are well-integrated into the plot. The story acknowledges the fuzzy gray space between good and evil (light and dark) and the flaws inherent in everything and everyone. It addresses the challenges of crossing boundaries of accepted notions of class, station and behavior. All three main characters are trapped by their circumstances, but manage to surmount these obstacles to a satisfactory degree, if not completely, in the end. The characterization of these individuals is well done, making them multidimensional and believable. Even the portrayal of the villain elicits reader sympathy. Perhaps the only weakness is in the characterization of the princess who is depicted as rather flat, even though she is ultimately the unifying element between the other characters.
The book moves at a rapid clip and is action packed enough to sustain interest. It is somewhat disjointed in that the four characters do not come together until the fourth and last book. It should be noted that the novel also contains 24 (including cover, etc.) charming, pencil-drawn illustrations by Timothy Basil Ering, which highlight, but are secondary to the text.
4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
From School Library Journal: “With memorable characters, brief chapters, and inventive plot twists, this fast-paced romp is perfect for reading alone or sharing aloud.”
From Voice of Youth Advocates: “At times, DiCamillo's new fantasy novel is charming, by turns sad, sweet, and mildly scary. At other times, though, the conceit of the narrator addressing the reader directly wears thin. The characters are all well limned, although the princess is, perhaps, too perfect.”
5. CONNECTIONS
*Other titles by Kate DiCamillo:
Because of Winn Dixie ISBN 0439250722
The Tiger Rising ISBN 0763618985
The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane ISBN 0763625892
*Make soup
*Create a graphic representation of the light/dark metaphor
*Readers Theatre of Ch. 51- the climax
*Also try Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH by Robert C. O’Brien ISBN 0689862202
DiCamillo, Kate. 2003. The Tale of Despereaux: Being the Story of a Mouse, a Princess, Some Soup and a Spool of Thread. Cambridge, MASS: Candlewick Press. ISBN 0439692202
2. PLOT SUMMARY
This Newberry Award- winning story is about how a frail, but intelligent and determined mouse rescues a princess from a devious (and perhaps misunderstood) rat who dupes a simple serving girl into being his accomplice. The first three ‘books’ individually give background information on the mouse, the rat and the serving girl and their relationship to the princess. (Book 1- Because he is seen talking to the princess, Despereaux is condemned to the dungeon by the Mouse Council. Book 2- Roscuro the rat frightens the queen to death [literally] when he forays out of the dungeon into the light. Book 3- Miggery Sow becomes a castle servant after the abusive man [to whom her father sold her] dies.) The fourth book weaves the fates of the characters together.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
The voice of the narrator as storyteller is very strong in this novel. The narrator often addresses the reader directly through questions and explanation. Sometimes the narrator’s presence is amiable and enlightening, other times it is distracting or condescending. For example, on page 45 the narrator asks, “Reader, do you know what ‘perfidy’ means? ...you should look up the word in your dictionary, just to be sure.”
A number of themes are well-integrated into the plot. The story acknowledges the fuzzy gray space between good and evil (light and dark) and the flaws inherent in everything and everyone. It addresses the challenges of crossing boundaries of accepted notions of class, station and behavior. All three main characters are trapped by their circumstances, but manage to surmount these obstacles to a satisfactory degree, if not completely, in the end. The characterization of these individuals is well done, making them multidimensional and believable. Even the portrayal of the villain elicits reader sympathy. Perhaps the only weakness is in the characterization of the princess who is depicted as rather flat, even though she is ultimately the unifying element between the other characters.
The book moves at a rapid clip and is action packed enough to sustain interest. It is somewhat disjointed in that the four characters do not come together until the fourth and last book. It should be noted that the novel also contains 24 (including cover, etc.) charming, pencil-drawn illustrations by Timothy Basil Ering, which highlight, but are secondary to the text.
4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
From School Library Journal: “With memorable characters, brief chapters, and inventive plot twists, this fast-paced romp is perfect for reading alone or sharing aloud.”
From Voice of Youth Advocates: “At times, DiCamillo's new fantasy novel is charming, by turns sad, sweet, and mildly scary. At other times, though, the conceit of the narrator addressing the reader directly wears thin. The characters are all well limned, although the princess is, perhaps, too perfect.”
5. CONNECTIONS
*Other titles by Kate DiCamillo:
Because of Winn Dixie ISBN 0439250722
The Tiger Rising ISBN 0763618985
The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane ISBN 0763625892
*Make soup
*Create a graphic representation of the light/dark metaphor
*Readers Theatre of Ch. 51- the climax
*Also try Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH by Robert C. O’Brien ISBN 0689862202
Thursday, March 29, 2007
CLEOPATRA by Diane Stanley and Peter Vennema
1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Stanley, Diane and Peter Vennema. 1994. Cleopatra. New York, NY: Harper Trophy. ISBN 0688154808
2. PLOT SUMMARY
Cleopatra is an ambitious ruler who is driven out of Egypt by the advisors of her younger brother/husband. She secretly returns and charms a visiting Julius Caesar. Shortly thereafter, she wins a war against her brother/husband and regains Egyptian rule. She lives happily with Caesar and their son in Egypt and then Rome until Caesar is murdered and she returns to Egypt. When Mark Antony and Octavian later rule the Roman Empire, she charms Antony with whom she falls in love and has three children. Romans are not happy with the alliance because Cleopatra is foreign and Antony eventually divorce’s Octavian’s sister to be with her. During the ensuing sea battle with Octavian’s fleet at Actium, Cleopatra flees to Egypt and Antony unexpectedly abandons combat to follow. Antony’s army fails to defend Alexandria from Octavian’s attack. When Antony is mistakenly told that Cleopatra is dead, he kills himself. After throwing Antony a lavish funeral and before Octavian can humiliate her in Rome, Cleopatra takes her own life.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
In the preface, the authors appropriately set the stage. Egypt was sophisticated and wealthy, but Rome controlled much of the world. (A map at the outset clearly illustrates this fact). They also clear up some misconceptions. Cleopatra “did not live in the days of the Pharoahs. . . she was not even Egyptian.” In the Note On Ancient Sources they acknowledge that much that survives about Cleopatra was written by her enemies and may not be entirely accurate as a result. Including this introductory information helps the reader better appreciate and understand the context of Cleopatra’s life.
Through a number of anecdotes, Cleopatra’s intelligent, ambitious and charismatic personality is unveiled. The authors reveal that while her alliances with Caesar and then Antony were in part political, they were also inspired by genuine affection. Despite her drive and ostentation, the reader is compelled to admire her courage and determination in the face of adversity.
While the biography itself progresses chronologically, it lacks any subdivision or page numbers, making it difficult to easily revisit or skip to particular events. The epilogue wraps up the historical aftermath succinctly. The authors also include a pronunciation guide and bibliography at the end for those seeking additional resources. Throughout the book, Stanley’s tile mosaic backgrounds and detailed illustrations suit the period and complement the text nicely. The reader learns a great deal about the culture of the time through the beautiful artwork.
4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
From Publisher’s Weekly: “This peerless author/artist team makes the captivating, ultimately tragic Cleopatra seem astoundingly real.”
From School Library Journal: “Lucid writing combines with carefully selected anecdotes, often attributed to the Greek historian Plutarch, to create an engaging narrative.”
5. CONNECTIONS
*Read this book in conjunction with a unit on women in history, Egypt or the Roman Empire
*Dramatic Interpretation (modified Antony and Cleopatra by Shakespeare)
*Other books about Cleopatra:
Cleopatra by Fiona MacDonald ISBN 0756619645
Cleopatra: The Life of an Egyptian Queen by Gary Jeffrey ISBN 1404202420
Cleopatra VII: Daughter of the Nile, Egypt, 57 B.C. by Kristiana Gregory ISBN 0590819755
*Other books by Stanley and Vennema:
Good Queen Bess : The Story of Elizabeth I of England ISBN 0688179614
Bard of Avon: The Story of William Shakespeare ISBN 0688091091
Shaka, King of the Zulus ISBN 978-0688131142
Stanley, Diane and Peter Vennema. 1994. Cleopatra. New York, NY: Harper Trophy. ISBN 0688154808
2. PLOT SUMMARY
Cleopatra is an ambitious ruler who is driven out of Egypt by the advisors of her younger brother/husband. She secretly returns and charms a visiting Julius Caesar. Shortly thereafter, she wins a war against her brother/husband and regains Egyptian rule. She lives happily with Caesar and their son in Egypt and then Rome until Caesar is murdered and she returns to Egypt. When Mark Antony and Octavian later rule the Roman Empire, she charms Antony with whom she falls in love and has three children. Romans are not happy with the alliance because Cleopatra is foreign and Antony eventually divorce’s Octavian’s sister to be with her. During the ensuing sea battle with Octavian’s fleet at Actium, Cleopatra flees to Egypt and Antony unexpectedly abandons combat to follow. Antony’s army fails to defend Alexandria from Octavian’s attack. When Antony is mistakenly told that Cleopatra is dead, he kills himself. After throwing Antony a lavish funeral and before Octavian can humiliate her in Rome, Cleopatra takes her own life.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
In the preface, the authors appropriately set the stage. Egypt was sophisticated and wealthy, but Rome controlled much of the world. (A map at the outset clearly illustrates this fact). They also clear up some misconceptions. Cleopatra “did not live in the days of the Pharoahs. . . she was not even Egyptian.” In the Note On Ancient Sources they acknowledge that much that survives about Cleopatra was written by her enemies and may not be entirely accurate as a result. Including this introductory information helps the reader better appreciate and understand the context of Cleopatra’s life.
Through a number of anecdotes, Cleopatra’s intelligent, ambitious and charismatic personality is unveiled. The authors reveal that while her alliances with Caesar and then Antony were in part political, they were also inspired by genuine affection. Despite her drive and ostentation, the reader is compelled to admire her courage and determination in the face of adversity.
While the biography itself progresses chronologically, it lacks any subdivision or page numbers, making it difficult to easily revisit or skip to particular events. The epilogue wraps up the historical aftermath succinctly. The authors also include a pronunciation guide and bibliography at the end for those seeking additional resources. Throughout the book, Stanley’s tile mosaic backgrounds and detailed illustrations suit the period and complement the text nicely. The reader learns a great deal about the culture of the time through the beautiful artwork.
4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
From Publisher’s Weekly: “This peerless author/artist team makes the captivating, ultimately tragic Cleopatra seem astoundingly real.”
From School Library Journal: “Lucid writing combines with carefully selected anecdotes, often attributed to the Greek historian Plutarch, to create an engaging narrative.”
5. CONNECTIONS
*Read this book in conjunction with a unit on women in history, Egypt or the Roman Empire
*Dramatic Interpretation (modified Antony and Cleopatra by Shakespeare)
*Other books about Cleopatra:
Cleopatra by Fiona MacDonald ISBN 0756619645
Cleopatra: The Life of an Egyptian Queen by Gary Jeffrey ISBN 1404202420
Cleopatra VII: Daughter of the Nile, Egypt, 57 B.C. by Kristiana Gregory ISBN 0590819755
*Other books by Stanley and Vennema:
Good Queen Bess : The Story of Elizabeth I of England ISBN 0688179614
Bard of Avon: The Story of William Shakespeare ISBN 0688091091
Shaka, King of the Zulus ISBN 978-0688131142
BUD, NOT BUDDY by Christopher Paul Curtis
1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Curtis, Christopher Paul. 1999. Bud, Not Buddy. New York, NY: Delacorte Press. ISBN 0553494104
2. PLOT SUMMARY
It is 1936 and 10 year old Bud has been in the Michigan foster system since his mother’s untimely death four years earlier. After another abusive experience in a foster home, he sets off in search of his father, with only a few sentimental possessions in his tattered suit case. He believes that Herman E. Calloway, a jazz musician featured in flyers that his mother kept, is his father. His mental notebook (Bud Caldwell’s Rules and Things for Having a Funner Life and Making a Better Liar Out of Yourself) guides his often humorous encounters during the course of his journey. With help from some kind strangers, he makes his way to the crotchety Calloway who denies any connection with the boy. Bud has already begun making a home for himself with the band when it becomes apparent that Calloway is actually his maternal grandfather.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
The harsh realities of Depression era life are balanced by Bud’s childish perspective and comedic musings, making this story easier to stomach when less appetizing food for thought is served. This is not to suggest that Curtis spares the truth. On the contrary, the reader learns much about Hoovervilles, hobos, meal lines, labor battles and police conflicts, along with the added struggle of being an African-American in this setting.
The other side of the scale is weighted by the kindness of strangers and Bud’s own antics as he ponders his Rules and Things. While one such stranger is driving him to his “father,” he reflects on rule # 8- “Whenever a Adult Tells You to Listen Carefully and Talks to You in a Real Calm Voice Do Not Listen, Run as Fast as You Can Because Something Real Terrible Is Just Around the Corner, Especially If the Cops Are Chasing You” (133). In this scenario, Bud’s street smarts alert him to danger, even though he does not yet understand that the peril lies in his benefactor’s role as a labor organizer. That Bud encounters so many Great Depression stereotypes during his brief excursion makes the story seem somewhat contrived at first, but the jazz musician perspective adds some unique insights to the era in the latter half of the novel.
4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
From School Library Journal: “The lively humor contrasts with the grim details of the Depression-era setting and the particular difficulties faced by African Americans at that time. Bud is a plucky, engaging protagonist.”
From Publisher’s Weekly: “While the grim conditions of the times and the harshness of Bud's circumstances are authentically depicted, Curtis shines on them an aura of hope and optimism.”
5. CONNECTIONS
*Write more Rules and Things
*Invite a Depression era guest speaker
*Listen to 1930’s jazz music
*Take a field trip to a jazz performance
*Other books by Christopher Paul Curtis:
The Watsons Go to Birmingham ISBN 978-0440228004
Bucking the Sarge ISBN 0440413311
*Music
Songs of the Depression: Boom, Bust & New Deal
Brother Can You Spare a Dime? Songs of the Depression
The Great Depression: American Music in the ‘30s
Curtis, Christopher Paul. 1999. Bud, Not Buddy. New York, NY: Delacorte Press. ISBN 0553494104
2. PLOT SUMMARY
It is 1936 and 10 year old Bud has been in the Michigan foster system since his mother’s untimely death four years earlier. After another abusive experience in a foster home, he sets off in search of his father, with only a few sentimental possessions in his tattered suit case. He believes that Herman E. Calloway, a jazz musician featured in flyers that his mother kept, is his father. His mental notebook (Bud Caldwell’s Rules and Things for Having a Funner Life and Making a Better Liar Out of Yourself) guides his often humorous encounters during the course of his journey. With help from some kind strangers, he makes his way to the crotchety Calloway who denies any connection with the boy. Bud has already begun making a home for himself with the band when it becomes apparent that Calloway is actually his maternal grandfather.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
The harsh realities of Depression era life are balanced by Bud’s childish perspective and comedic musings, making this story easier to stomach when less appetizing food for thought is served. This is not to suggest that Curtis spares the truth. On the contrary, the reader learns much about Hoovervilles, hobos, meal lines, labor battles and police conflicts, along with the added struggle of being an African-American in this setting.
The other side of the scale is weighted by the kindness of strangers and Bud’s own antics as he ponders his Rules and Things. While one such stranger is driving him to his “father,” he reflects on rule # 8- “Whenever a Adult Tells You to Listen Carefully and Talks to You in a Real Calm Voice Do Not Listen, Run as Fast as You Can Because Something Real Terrible Is Just Around the Corner, Especially If the Cops Are Chasing You” (133). In this scenario, Bud’s street smarts alert him to danger, even though he does not yet understand that the peril lies in his benefactor’s role as a labor organizer. That Bud encounters so many Great Depression stereotypes during his brief excursion makes the story seem somewhat contrived at first, but the jazz musician perspective adds some unique insights to the era in the latter half of the novel.
4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
From School Library Journal: “The lively humor contrasts with the grim details of the Depression-era setting and the particular difficulties faced by African Americans at that time. Bud is a plucky, engaging protagonist.”
From Publisher’s Weekly: “While the grim conditions of the times and the harshness of Bud's circumstances are authentically depicted, Curtis shines on them an aura of hope and optimism.”
5. CONNECTIONS
*Write more Rules and Things
*Invite a Depression era guest speaker
*Listen to 1930’s jazz music
*Take a field trip to a jazz performance
*Other books by Christopher Paul Curtis:
The Watsons Go to Birmingham ISBN 978-0440228004
Bucking the Sarge ISBN 0440413311
*Music
Songs of the Depression: Boom, Bust & New Deal
Brother Can You Spare a Dime? Songs of the Depression
The Great Depression: American Music in the ‘30s
A YEAR DOWN YONDER by Richard Peck
1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Peck, Richard. 2000. A Year Down Yonder. New York, NY: Dial Books for Young Readers. ISBN 0142300705
2. PLOT SUMMARY
This Newbery Award-winning novel is the sequel to Peck’s A Long Way from Chicago. Humorous and often touching, it is about a year in the life of 15 year-old Mary Alice who is sent to live with her strong-willed grandmother (in 1937) while her parents regroup from the hardships of the Depression. A city girl (from Chicago), Mary Alice initially has a hard time adjusting to small town life and to the peculiarities of her practical, gritty and unapologetically blunt Grandma Dowdel. At first intimidated and embarrassed by her grandmother, Mary Alice comes of age while she also comes to appreciate her grandmother’s strengths.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
The sometimes bitter truth of rural, Depression-era life is nicely tempered by comic relief to make this story a believable and enjoyable read. The reader acquires a feeling for the era naturally through Mary Alice’s experiences during the course of the year. One of the chapters is about the annual Armistice Day turkey shoot, after which Mary Alice observes, “The veterans ran their turkey shoot to raise money for the American Legion. Their wives sold burgoo to help Mrs. Abernathy” (51). Much is revealed about community committment, especially during the difficult times of the Depression.
The characterization in this book is brilliant. Initially a somewhat bland character, especially in comparison to her larger-than-life grandmother, Mary Alice’s persona slowly emerges throughout the book like a butterfly. At first, her teenage insecurities and developing sense of self are in stark contrast to her grandmother’s self-assuredness. As time and events draw them closer, she learns that her supposedly hard-edged grandmother really “had eyes in the back of her heart” (128). The universal themes of personal growth and the power of family love make this book relevant and accessible to modern readers.
4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
From School Library Journal: “Richard Peck's Newbery Award-winner (Dial, 2000) is a multi-layered story of small town life spiced with humor, love, and a bit of history.”
From Horn Book Review: “While the escapades are diverting, the seven stories, which span the school year, don't have the cumulative power of those in A Long Way from Chicago.”
5. CONNECTIONS
*Reader’s Theatre or other dramatic reenactment of one of the 7 episodes from the book (e.g. DAR meeting)
*Cooking- burgoo, pecan and pumpkin pies, cherry tarts
*Depression era guest speaker
*Other titles by Richard Peck:
A Long Way from Chicago ISBN 0142401102
Here Lies the Librarian ISBN 0803730802
Stray’s Like Us ISBN 978-0141306193
*Nonfiction books about the Great Depression:
Children of the Great Depression by Russell Freedman ISBN 0618446303
Life During the Great Depression by Dennis Nishi ISBN 1560063815
Peck, Richard. 2000. A Year Down Yonder. New York, NY: Dial Books for Young Readers. ISBN 0142300705
2. PLOT SUMMARY
This Newbery Award-winning novel is the sequel to Peck’s A Long Way from Chicago. Humorous and often touching, it is about a year in the life of 15 year-old Mary Alice who is sent to live with her strong-willed grandmother (in 1937) while her parents regroup from the hardships of the Depression. A city girl (from Chicago), Mary Alice initially has a hard time adjusting to small town life and to the peculiarities of her practical, gritty and unapologetically blunt Grandma Dowdel. At first intimidated and embarrassed by her grandmother, Mary Alice comes of age while she also comes to appreciate her grandmother’s strengths.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
The sometimes bitter truth of rural, Depression-era life is nicely tempered by comic relief to make this story a believable and enjoyable read. The reader acquires a feeling for the era naturally through Mary Alice’s experiences during the course of the year. One of the chapters is about the annual Armistice Day turkey shoot, after which Mary Alice observes, “The veterans ran their turkey shoot to raise money for the American Legion. Their wives sold burgoo to help Mrs. Abernathy” (51). Much is revealed about community committment, especially during the difficult times of the Depression.
The characterization in this book is brilliant. Initially a somewhat bland character, especially in comparison to her larger-than-life grandmother, Mary Alice’s persona slowly emerges throughout the book like a butterfly. At first, her teenage insecurities and developing sense of self are in stark contrast to her grandmother’s self-assuredness. As time and events draw them closer, she learns that her supposedly hard-edged grandmother really “had eyes in the back of her heart” (128). The universal themes of personal growth and the power of family love make this book relevant and accessible to modern readers.
4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
From School Library Journal: “Richard Peck's Newbery Award-winner (Dial, 2000) is a multi-layered story of small town life spiced with humor, love, and a bit of history.”
From Horn Book Review: “While the escapades are diverting, the seven stories, which span the school year, don't have the cumulative power of those in A Long Way from Chicago.”
5. CONNECTIONS
*Reader’s Theatre or other dramatic reenactment of one of the 7 episodes from the book (e.g. DAR meeting)
*Cooking- burgoo, pecan and pumpkin pies, cherry tarts
*Depression era guest speaker
*Other titles by Richard Peck:
A Long Way from Chicago ISBN 0142401102
Here Lies the Librarian ISBN 0803730802
Stray’s Like Us ISBN 978-0141306193
*Nonfiction books about the Great Depression:
Children of the Great Depression by Russell Freedman ISBN 0618446303
Life During the Great Depression by Dennis Nishi ISBN 1560063815
Sunday, March 11, 2007
THE BERRY BOOK by Gail Gibbons
1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Gibbons, Gail. 2002. The Berry Book. United States: Holiday House. ISBN 0823416976
2. PLOT SUMMARY
This primary level nonfiction book is all about berries both edible and not edible. It includes information about types of berries, where they grow, how they are used now and in the past, how wild berries differ from cultivated berries, how they are harvested, where they are sold, how they grow from blossom to fruit and cultural traditions involving berries. The last several pages consist of instructions on how to grow strawberries, recipes and berry trivia.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Though it is geared toward young children, this book is fairly comprehensive. Gibbons touches on the scientific, economic and cultural dimensions of the topic using comprehensible language. While the majority of the book consists of general information, she adds some interesting and unique facts as well. Did you know, for example, that “the United States and Canada lead all other countries in the growing of strawberries and blueberries” and that “often the oil from bayberries is used to scent candles”? The content of the text follows a logical progression with the exception that the explanation of how strawberries grow follows (rather than precedes) the explanation of how they are harvested. It also lacks any reference aids or source information for those interested in browsing or learning more.
The attractive watercolor illustrations are labeled and many have captions that explain the picture and/or support the text. While some of the pictures are set in cluttered panels, most are arranged in a visually appealing manner. Perhaps the best feature of this book is the built in extension activities included at the end of it. A teacher or parent can grow strawberries and make a blueberry pie, strawberry jam or raspberry ice cream with children. Participation in activities like these makes the topic more meaningful for young children.
4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
From School Library Journal: “The watercolor cartoon illustrations are large, entertaining, informative, and abundant.”
From Booklist: “Gibbons' distinctive line work and bright colors give the pages a cheerful look, and the information is extended through the picture captions.”
5. CONNECTIONS
*Grow strawberries or follow recipes per the book’s instructions.
*Paint with crushed berry juice.
*Visit a berry farm or factory that produces berry products. Visit a grocery store and go on a berry product scavenger hunt.
*Other books about berries:
Berries, Nuts and Seeds by Diane L. Burns ISBN 1559715731
Berries to Jelly by Inez Snyder ISBN 0516255266
Berry Magic by Betty Huffmon ISBN 0882405764
Iktomi and the Berries by Paul Goble ISBN 0531070298
Gibbons, Gail. 2002. The Berry Book. United States: Holiday House. ISBN 0823416976
2. PLOT SUMMARY
This primary level nonfiction book is all about berries both edible and not edible. It includes information about types of berries, where they grow, how they are used now and in the past, how wild berries differ from cultivated berries, how they are harvested, where they are sold, how they grow from blossom to fruit and cultural traditions involving berries. The last several pages consist of instructions on how to grow strawberries, recipes and berry trivia.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Though it is geared toward young children, this book is fairly comprehensive. Gibbons touches on the scientific, economic and cultural dimensions of the topic using comprehensible language. While the majority of the book consists of general information, she adds some interesting and unique facts as well. Did you know, for example, that “the United States and Canada lead all other countries in the growing of strawberries and blueberries” and that “often the oil from bayberries is used to scent candles”? The content of the text follows a logical progression with the exception that the explanation of how strawberries grow follows (rather than precedes) the explanation of how they are harvested. It also lacks any reference aids or source information for those interested in browsing or learning more.
The attractive watercolor illustrations are labeled and many have captions that explain the picture and/or support the text. While some of the pictures are set in cluttered panels, most are arranged in a visually appealing manner. Perhaps the best feature of this book is the built in extension activities included at the end of it. A teacher or parent can grow strawberries and make a blueberry pie, strawberry jam or raspberry ice cream with children. Participation in activities like these makes the topic more meaningful for young children.
4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
From School Library Journal: “The watercolor cartoon illustrations are large, entertaining, informative, and abundant.”
From Booklist: “Gibbons' distinctive line work and bright colors give the pages a cheerful look, and the information is extended through the picture captions.”
5. CONNECTIONS
*Grow strawberries or follow recipes per the book’s instructions.
*Paint with crushed berry juice.
*Visit a berry farm or factory that produces berry products. Visit a grocery store and go on a berry product scavenger hunt.
*Other books about berries:
Berries, Nuts and Seeds by Diane L. Burns ISBN 1559715731
Berries to Jelly by Inez Snyder ISBN 0516255266
Berry Magic by Betty Huffmon ISBN 0882405764
Iktomi and the Berries by Paul Goble ISBN 0531070298
Saturday, March 10, 2007
SHIPWRECK AT THE BOTTOM OF THE WORLD: THE EXTRAORDINARY TRUE STORY OF SHACKLETON AND THE ENDURANCE by Jennifer Armstrong
1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Armstrong, Jennifer. 1998. Shipwreck at the Bottom of the World: The Extraordinary True Story of Shackleton and the Endurance. New York, NY: Crown Publishers, Inc. ISBN 0375810498
2. PLOT SUMMARY
This book is about the incredible true story of the Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition led by Sir Ernest Shackleton, which began August 1914 in London aboard the ill-fated Endurance. While the voyage begins with much optimism, the unusually thick ice pack causes delays and eventually traps the Endurance on January 19, 1915- less than 100 miles from the continent. The crew spends the winter drifting along on the ice pack, staying sane as best they can. On October 27, after several months of straining against increased pressure, the ship is crushed beyond repair. Salvaging what they can, the crew sets off across the ice hauling three lifeboats in an attempt to reach open water. Several months and tent camps later, they launch the boats and make the perilous crossing to Elephant Island. On April 24, 1916, Shackleton and five crew members board a lifeboat for a rescue mission to South Georgia Island- 800 miles away across frigid, treacherous ocean. Against all odds, the small boat makes landfall there after 20 days. Shackleton and one other crew member cross the mountainous interior to the inhabited side of the island for help. The crew remaining on Elephant Island is finally rescued on August 30, 1916. While some are worse for wear, the entire crew survives the ordeal!
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Before telling the tale, Armstrong provides plenty of background information about the Antarctic, previous expeditions and personal information about Shackleton and other key crew members. Photographs of the crew, diagrams of the ship and maps of the journey precede the text and prepare the reader for the magnitude of the story to follow. At the outset, Armstrong declares the Antarctic as “the most hostile place on earth” (1).
To merely relate the facts of the fated expedition does little justice to the incredible triumph of this story. Using authentic photographs taken by the expedition’s photographer and information from the captain’s logbook (combined with a variety of other sources), Armstrong paints a very human picture. Anecdotes (about how the men occupied their time during the waiting periods, how the tension builds as the situation begins to deteriorate and how the basic struggle for survival takes precedence) make the characters seem very real. Armstrong’s vivid descriptions also bring to life the harshness of the terrain. She depicts the whaling station on South Georgia Island as “a rough spot, with the carcasses of blue and humpback whales putrefying in the midnight sun, and the harbor red with blood and shimmering with grease...” (13). It is an experience that leaves the reader humbled and amazed.
The book is nicely organized with a logical progression. Chapters break the story into key episodes. Armstrong includes a bibliography for additional source information as well as a useful index.
4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
From School Library Journal: “This is a very effective presentation of not only how the disaster occurred, but of the toll it took on the crew and how they rose to the challenge.”
From Amazon: “The true-to-life story is as thrilling as they come, and Armstrong's lively, crystal-clear writing style is just as compelling.”
5. CONNECTIONS
*Other Orbis Pictus Award Winning Books:
York's Adventures with Lewis and Clark: An African-American's Part in the Great Expedition by Rhoda Blumberg ISBN 0060091118
Quest for the Tree Kangaroo: An Expedition to the Cloud Forest of New Guinea by Sy Montgomery ISBN 0618496416
Children of the Great Depression by Russell Freedman ISBN 0618446303
*Other books about Antarctica:
How to Survive in Antarctica by Lucy Jane Bledsoe ISBN 0823418901
Antarctica: Journey to the Pole by Peter Lerangis ISBN 0439163870
Explore Antarctica by Louise Crossley ISBN 0521455669
*Read this book in conjunction with a study of the polar regions, the continents or a unit on exploration/explorers
Armstrong, Jennifer. 1998. Shipwreck at the Bottom of the World: The Extraordinary True Story of Shackleton and the Endurance. New York, NY: Crown Publishers, Inc. ISBN 0375810498
2. PLOT SUMMARY
This book is about the incredible true story of the Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition led by Sir Ernest Shackleton, which began August 1914 in London aboard the ill-fated Endurance. While the voyage begins with much optimism, the unusually thick ice pack causes delays and eventually traps the Endurance on January 19, 1915- less than 100 miles from the continent. The crew spends the winter drifting along on the ice pack, staying sane as best they can. On October 27, after several months of straining against increased pressure, the ship is crushed beyond repair. Salvaging what they can, the crew sets off across the ice hauling three lifeboats in an attempt to reach open water. Several months and tent camps later, they launch the boats and make the perilous crossing to Elephant Island. On April 24, 1916, Shackleton and five crew members board a lifeboat for a rescue mission to South Georgia Island- 800 miles away across frigid, treacherous ocean. Against all odds, the small boat makes landfall there after 20 days. Shackleton and one other crew member cross the mountainous interior to the inhabited side of the island for help. The crew remaining on Elephant Island is finally rescued on August 30, 1916. While some are worse for wear, the entire crew survives the ordeal!
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Before telling the tale, Armstrong provides plenty of background information about the Antarctic, previous expeditions and personal information about Shackleton and other key crew members. Photographs of the crew, diagrams of the ship and maps of the journey precede the text and prepare the reader for the magnitude of the story to follow. At the outset, Armstrong declares the Antarctic as “the most hostile place on earth” (1).
To merely relate the facts of the fated expedition does little justice to the incredible triumph of this story. Using authentic photographs taken by the expedition’s photographer and information from the captain’s logbook (combined with a variety of other sources), Armstrong paints a very human picture. Anecdotes (about how the men occupied their time during the waiting periods, how the tension builds as the situation begins to deteriorate and how the basic struggle for survival takes precedence) make the characters seem very real. Armstrong’s vivid descriptions also bring to life the harshness of the terrain. She depicts the whaling station on South Georgia Island as “a rough spot, with the carcasses of blue and humpback whales putrefying in the midnight sun, and the harbor red with blood and shimmering with grease...” (13). It is an experience that leaves the reader humbled and amazed.
The book is nicely organized with a logical progression. Chapters break the story into key episodes. Armstrong includes a bibliography for additional source information as well as a useful index.
4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
From School Library Journal: “This is a very effective presentation of not only how the disaster occurred, but of the toll it took on the crew and how they rose to the challenge.”
From Amazon: “The true-to-life story is as thrilling as they come, and Armstrong's lively, crystal-clear writing style is just as compelling.”
5. CONNECTIONS
*Other Orbis Pictus Award Winning Books:
York's Adventures with Lewis and Clark: An African-American's Part in the Great Expedition by Rhoda Blumberg ISBN 0060091118
Quest for the Tree Kangaroo: An Expedition to the Cloud Forest of New Guinea by Sy Montgomery ISBN 0618496416
Children of the Great Depression by Russell Freedman ISBN 0618446303
*Other books about Antarctica:
How to Survive in Antarctica by Lucy Jane Bledsoe ISBN 0823418901
Antarctica: Journey to the Pole by Peter Lerangis ISBN 0439163870
Explore Antarctica by Louise Crossley ISBN 0521455669
*Read this book in conjunction with a study of the polar regions, the continents or a unit on exploration/explorers
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