L.M. Montgomery. Putnam Adult, 2008. ISBN: 978-0399154782
Plot Summary: When Anne is left an orphan, she ends up being brought to Green Gables, the home of Matthew and Marilla. At first her future seems uncertain as she quickly discovers that they had requested a boy from the orphanage to help again Matthew around the farm. Luckily, they decide that red haired Anne can stay and she begins to win their hearts. Anne is quite a handful for the elderly brother and sister. She is talkative, energetic and has a wild imagination. It is a huge adjustment for the two to adjust to life with Anne but soon they cannot imagine their lives without her.
Critical Evaluation: This book is a Canadian classic for good reason. It is well written and brings to life PEI in the early 1900's. The reader can easily empathize with Anne and will feel her triumphs and heartaches as though there were their own. The character of Anne Shirley is completely irresistible and her story is heartfelt and quickly grabs the reader.
Reader's Annotation: Anne Shirley is excited to finally have a home. Unfortunately when she arrives, she discovers the she is not wanted because she is a girl. Can she change their minds with her fast tongue and brilliant imagination?
Genre: Fiction
About the Author: Lucy Maude Mongomery was born in 1894 and is the author of the Anne of Green Gable series as well as other stories about the town of Avonlea. Her work has been made into a television series as well as films.
Interest Level: 8-14
Curriculum Ties: Canadian History
Booktalking Ideas:
Focus on Anne's temper and her imagination.
Challenge Issues: None. If any, become familiar with book and the series. Read reviews of the book and seek out opinions of reader's.
Selection Process: I read it in school many years ago and wanted to re-read.
Focus on her friendship with Diana
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Guinness Book Of World Records - 2010
Guinness Book of World Records. Guinness World Records, 2009. ISBN: 978-1904994503
Plot Summary: This is the 2010 version of the Guinness's yearly publication of records set around the world. The book contains photos and description of the records set in various categories. Records include: largest hamburger, tallest and shortest man and woman, speed records, etc. There aer also frivolous records such as longest time spend hiccuping, time spend on Pogo stick and other endeavors.
Critical Evaluation: This series holds interest for people of all ages. It is fun to look through and is informative and educational.
Annotation: A book containing information on world records.
Genre: Non Fiction
Curriculum Ties: None
Interest Level: 8-14 Years old
Booktalking Ideas:
Do you know how much the worlds fattest man weighs? How many hot dogs do you think someone can eat in 10 minutes?
Challenge Issues: None. If any, become familiar with the book.
Selection Process: I receive it every year as a gift from my Grandmother :)
Plot Summary: This is the 2010 version of the Guinness's yearly publication of records set around the world. The book contains photos and description of the records set in various categories. Records include: largest hamburger, tallest and shortest man and woman, speed records, etc. There aer also frivolous records such as longest time spend hiccuping, time spend on Pogo stick and other endeavors.
Critical Evaluation: This series holds interest for people of all ages. It is fun to look through and is informative and educational.
Annotation: A book containing information on world records.
Genre: Non Fiction
Curriculum Ties: None
Interest Level: 8-14 Years old
Booktalking Ideas:
Do you know how much the worlds fattest man weighs? How many hot dogs do you think someone can eat in 10 minutes?
Challenge Issues: None. If any, become familiar with the book.
Selection Process: I receive it every year as a gift from my Grandmother :)
Trixie Beldon Fan Fiction
http://barbln.org/trixie/fanfic.htm
Summary: This is a website for fans of the Trixie Beldon mystery series. There are opportunites for fans to contribute essays and writing about the characters in teh series, plot ideas and to discuss various aspects of the stories or contribute artwork.
Critical Evaluation: This is not a very professional looking website although some of the content is good. It is obviously maintained by people who love the series but perhaps do not have a lot of technical abilities. Much of the writing on the site is done by youth and is true to the style of the original series.
Reader's Annotation: A great site for those who enjoy the Trixie Beldon series and would like to contribute their own work.
Genre: Fan website
Interest Level: 10-15
Curriculum Ties: Writing, Art, English
Booktalking Ideas: N/A
Challenge Issues: None
If any, become familiar with the website and content.
Selection Process: Found a link from another site.
Summary: This is a website for fans of the Trixie Beldon mystery series. There are opportunites for fans to contribute essays and writing about the characters in teh series, plot ideas and to discuss various aspects of the stories or contribute artwork.
Critical Evaluation: This is not a very professional looking website although some of the content is good. It is obviously maintained by people who love the series but perhaps do not have a lot of technical abilities. Much of the writing on the site is done by youth and is true to the style of the original series.
Reader's Annotation: A great site for those who enjoy the Trixie Beldon series and would like to contribute their own work.
Genre: Fan website
Interest Level: 10-15
Curriculum Ties: Writing, Art, English
Booktalking Ideas: N/A
Challenge Issues: None
If any, become familiar with the website and content.
Selection Process: Found a link from another site.
The Nancy Drew Notebooks #53: Recipe for Trouble
Carolyn Keene. Illustrated by Paul Casale. Aladdin Paperbacks, 2003.
Plot Summary: It is spring break and Nancy, Bess and George don't know how they will pass the time. Luckily, Nancy's dad has enrolled them in a kids dessert making class taught by a french dessert chef. The girls are very excited and each want to win the "Top Chef" award that will be given out on the last day. Things start to look bad however when someone starts sabotaging desserts in the class. The girls have a few suspects and they all have motive to wreck the class. Will the girls discover the culprit before the the final day? Or will the dessert demonstration for the parents be ruined?
Critical Evaluation: This version of the classic Nancy Drew series is meant for a lightly younger reader than the original. The story is very formulaic and there are few surprises. There is also sense of redundancy in the dialogue and the adjectives used through out the book which takes away from the story line. Those who read and enjoy the classic Nancy Drew series will be disappointed.
Reader's Annotation: Nancy and her two best friends are taking a week long dessert making class. Too bad one of the other students is trying to wreck every ones deserts! Can Nancy and her friends track down the culprit?
Genre: Mystery
About the Author: Carolyn Keene the pen name of the author(s) of the popular Nancy Drew series.
Interest Level: 6-10
Curriculum Ties: None
Challenge Issues: None.
If any, become familiar with the content of the story as well as the series. Talk with tweens who enjoy the series.
Booktalking Ideas:
Focus on relationship of three best friends.
Selection Process: I was a fan of the original series of Nancy Drew when I was young and wanted to see what the newer series was like.
Plot Summary: It is spring break and Nancy, Bess and George don't know how they will pass the time. Luckily, Nancy's dad has enrolled them in a kids dessert making class taught by a french dessert chef. The girls are very excited and each want to win the "Top Chef" award that will be given out on the last day. Things start to look bad however when someone starts sabotaging desserts in the class. The girls have a few suspects and they all have motive to wreck the class. Will the girls discover the culprit before the the final day? Or will the dessert demonstration for the parents be ruined?
Critical Evaluation: This version of the classic Nancy Drew series is meant for a lightly younger reader than the original. The story is very formulaic and there are few surprises. There is also sense of redundancy in the dialogue and the adjectives used through out the book which takes away from the story line. Those who read and enjoy the classic Nancy Drew series will be disappointed.
Reader's Annotation: Nancy and her two best friends are taking a week long dessert making class. Too bad one of the other students is trying to wreck every ones deserts! Can Nancy and her friends track down the culprit?
Genre: Mystery
About the Author: Carolyn Keene the pen name of the author(s) of the popular Nancy Drew series.
Interest Level: 6-10
Curriculum Ties: None
Challenge Issues: None.
If any, become familiar with the content of the story as well as the series. Talk with tweens who enjoy the series.
Booktalking Ideas:
Focus on relationship of three best friends.
Selection Process: I was a fan of the original series of Nancy Drew when I was young and wanted to see what the newer series was like.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
WALL*E
Directed by Andrew Stanton. Written by Andrew Stanton, Pete Docter. Voices by Ben Burdett, Jeff Garlin. Disney/Pixar, 2008. ASIN: B0013FSL3E
Plot Summary: Humans have finally filled the planet earth to capacity with garbage. Human kind has left the planet until it is cleaned up - a duty which falls to WALL-E, a small robot. WALL-E is alone on earth until a female robot, EVE, seeking plant life lands, and steals WALL-E's heart. Meanwhile, humans circle endlessly in space on huge chips getting fatter and fatter and losing touch with where they came from. In an attempt to impress EVE, WALL-E ends up getting involved with a scheme to bring humans back to earth.
Critical Evaluation: This is a great movie for the whole family. Even thought the main characters are robots, the film is filled with human emotions and is very touching. Pixar has managed to animate the inanimate in such a way as it creates empathy and though into the human condition. The animation is spectacular, especially the views from space and the expressions in WALL-E's face.
Annotation: WALL-E has been left on earth alone, except for his little cockroach friend. He is supposed to be cleaning up the earth to allow humans to come back, but do they have any intention of returning?
Genre: Science Fiction/Comedy
Interest Level: 8-18
Curriculum Ties: It may be a good choice for classes focusing on the environment.
Booktalking Ideas:
Focus on what has happened to the Earth's environment.
Discuss relationship between WALL-E and EVE.
Will humans ever leave Earth?
Challenge Issues: None. If any familiarize self with the film. Research Pixar, and reviews of the film.
Selection Process: Recommended at the video store.
Plot Summary: Humans have finally filled the planet earth to capacity with garbage. Human kind has left the planet until it is cleaned up - a duty which falls to WALL-E, a small robot. WALL-E is alone on earth until a female robot, EVE, seeking plant life lands, and steals WALL-E's heart. Meanwhile, humans circle endlessly in space on huge chips getting fatter and fatter and losing touch with where they came from. In an attempt to impress EVE, WALL-E ends up getting involved with a scheme to bring humans back to earth.
Critical Evaluation: This is a great movie for the whole family. Even thought the main characters are robots, the film is filled with human emotions and is very touching. Pixar has managed to animate the inanimate in such a way as it creates empathy and though into the human condition. The animation is spectacular, especially the views from space and the expressions in WALL-E's face.
Annotation: WALL-E has been left on earth alone, except for his little cockroach friend. He is supposed to be cleaning up the earth to allow humans to come back, but do they have any intention of returning?
Genre: Science Fiction/Comedy
Interest Level: 8-18
Curriculum Ties: It may be a good choice for classes focusing on the environment.
Booktalking Ideas:
Focus on what has happened to the Earth's environment.
Discuss relationship between WALL-E and EVE.
Will humans ever leave Earth?
Challenge Issues: None. If any familiarize self with the film. Research Pixar, and reviews of the film.
Selection Process: Recommended at the video store.
GooseBumps - Horrorland: Say cheese and die screaming
R.L. Stine. Scholastic, 2009. ISBN: 978-0439918763.
Plot Summary: Julie loves photography. She is in the middle of a contest with her rival David to see who will take the class picture for the yearbook. She purchases a camera at a garage sale and to her horror, terrible things start happening when she uses the camera. No-one will believe that the camera is to blame and Julie is powerless to protect even her best friend, Reena. To top off the book, she ends up in Horrorland and can't find a way out!
Critical Evaluation: This is a great horror/suspense book for this age group. There are scary situation, but there is no blood or gore but still manages to give you the creeps. The Horrorland section near the end of the book is certainly the scariest and most suspenseful. The story is well written and will give tweens goosebumps for sure!
Reader's Annotation: Julie wants to beat David in the photo contest, but can she stop her evil camera from hurting more people?
Genre: Horror/Suspense
Interest Level: 8-13
About the Author: R.L. Stine is the author of dozens of books including the Goosebump series and Rotten School series along with many others. He has been described as the "Stephan King of Children's Literature".
Curriculum Ties: None
Booktalking Ideas:
What if you bought a camera and it was full of evil magic?
Challenge Issues: None. If any ensure a good knowledge of the book and its content. Research reviews of book and teen reviews.
Selection Process: I wanted to include a book from the popular series.
Reader's Annotation: When Julie buys an old camera at a garage sale, she buys more than she bargained for. How can she stop the evil camera from hurting anymore of her friends?
Plot Summary: Julie loves photography. She is in the middle of a contest with her rival David to see who will take the class picture for the yearbook. She purchases a camera at a garage sale and to her horror, terrible things start happening when she uses the camera. No-one will believe that the camera is to blame and Julie is powerless to protect even her best friend, Reena. To top off the book, she ends up in Horrorland and can't find a way out!
Critical Evaluation: This is a great horror/suspense book for this age group. There are scary situation, but there is no blood or gore but still manages to give you the creeps. The Horrorland section near the end of the book is certainly the scariest and most suspenseful. The story is well written and will give tweens goosebumps for sure!
Reader's Annotation: Julie wants to beat David in the photo contest, but can she stop her evil camera from hurting more people?
Genre: Horror/Suspense
Interest Level: 8-13
About the Author: R.L. Stine is the author of dozens of books including the Goosebump series and Rotten School series along with many others. He has been described as the "Stephan King of Children's Literature".
Curriculum Ties: None
Booktalking Ideas:
What if you bought a camera and it was full of evil magic?
Challenge Issues: None. If any ensure a good knowledge of the book and its content. Research reviews of book and teen reviews.
Selection Process: I wanted to include a book from the popular series.
Reader's Annotation: When Julie buys an old camera at a garage sale, she buys more than she bargained for. How can she stop the evil camera from hurting anymore of her friends?
Kidzworld.com
http://www.kidzworld.com
Summary: This website contains a little bit of everything. There are movie reviews, blogs done by tweens, advice columns, chat rooms, posting boards, and much more.
Critical Evaluation: I enjoyed this website as it is not covered in advertising. It is simple to navigate, has a fair amount of visual appeal and has a good variety of things to look at. There is also an educational component to the website. There are book reviews and discussions about school subjects, study tips etc.
Annotation: A website with a wide variety of activities and things to look at geared for tweens.
Genre: Website/Entertainment
Curriculum Ties: None
Interest Level: 8-13
About the Author: N/A - There are many contributors.
Booktalking Ideas: N/A
Challenge Issues: None. If any , familiarize with website and content.
Selection Process: Found through search engine.
Summary: This website contains a little bit of everything. There are movie reviews, blogs done by tweens, advice columns, chat rooms, posting boards, and much more.
Critical Evaluation: I enjoyed this website as it is not covered in advertising. It is simple to navigate, has a fair amount of visual appeal and has a good variety of things to look at. There is also an educational component to the website. There are book reviews and discussions about school subjects, study tips etc.
Annotation: A website with a wide variety of activities and things to look at geared for tweens.
Genre: Website/Entertainment
Curriculum Ties: None
Interest Level: 8-13
About the Author: N/A - There are many contributors.
Booktalking Ideas: N/A
Challenge Issues: None. If any , familiarize with website and content.
Selection Process: Found through search engine.
The Invisible Circus
Jennifer Egan. Picador, 1995. ISBN: 978-0307387523
Plot Summary: Pheobe O'Conner lives in San Fransisco with her mother. It is 1978 and eight years earlier, her sister Faith died while travelling in Europe with her boyfriend, Wolf. Phoebe and the rest of her family have never really recovered from Faith's death. Phoebe graduates from high school and decides to follow her sisters footsteps to Europe to uncover the secret of her life and her death. She meets up with Wolfe and learns far more than she intended about her sister, her sisters, death, life, and her place in the world. She discovers that the world can be far darker and more filled with freedom than she knew.
Critical Evaluation: The character of Phoebe will grab the hearts of readers. Egan does such a good job of imparting Phoebes longing to know her sister and find her place, and her intense loneliness that the story is irresistible. The life situations that Phoebe confronts and the relationships portrayed in the book are powerful, sad, and draw on the readers emotions. The reader will feel empathy as Phoebe tries to figure out where she fits with the ghost of her sister hanging over her head.
Reader's Annotation: 8 Years after the death of her sister, Phoebe goes to Europe alone to retrace her sisters steps and figure out the mystery behind her death.
Genre: Fiction/Mystery
Interest Level: 13-18
About the Author: Jennifer Egan has written several novels and books of short stories. She has won several awards such as the National Book Award.
Curriculum Ties: None
Challenge Issues: There may be several: drug use, sexual content. In defense, familiarize with the content of the book. Research awards won by the author and read reviews in The New York Times Book Review, Horn Books, and teen reviews on amazon.com.
Selection Process: A personal favorite read.
Plot Summary: Pheobe O'Conner lives in San Fransisco with her mother. It is 1978 and eight years earlier, her sister Faith died while travelling in Europe with her boyfriend, Wolf. Phoebe and the rest of her family have never really recovered from Faith's death. Phoebe graduates from high school and decides to follow her sisters footsteps to Europe to uncover the secret of her life and her death. She meets up with Wolfe and learns far more than she intended about her sister, her sisters, death, life, and her place in the world. She discovers that the world can be far darker and more filled with freedom than she knew.
Critical Evaluation: The character of Phoebe will grab the hearts of readers. Egan does such a good job of imparting Phoebes longing to know her sister and find her place, and her intense loneliness that the story is irresistible. The life situations that Phoebe confronts and the relationships portrayed in the book are powerful, sad, and draw on the readers emotions. The reader will feel empathy as Phoebe tries to figure out where she fits with the ghost of her sister hanging over her head.
Reader's Annotation: 8 Years after the death of her sister, Phoebe goes to Europe alone to retrace her sisters steps and figure out the mystery behind her death.
Genre: Fiction/Mystery
Interest Level: 13-18
About the Author: Jennifer Egan has written several novels and books of short stories. She has won several awards such as the National Book Award.
Curriculum Ties: None
Challenge Issues: There may be several: drug use, sexual content. In defense, familiarize with the content of the book. Research awards won by the author and read reviews in The New York Times Book Review, Horn Books, and teen reviews on amazon.com.
Selection Process: A personal favorite read.
Fearless - Taylor Swift
Taylor Swift. Big Machine Records, 2008. ASIN: B001EYGOEM
Summary: "Fearless" is Taylor Swift's second album on which she has written 7 of the songs and co-written 6 of them. The songs are a mix of country and pop.
Critical Evaluation: This popular singer/songwriter is popular for a reason. The tracks are catchy, well written and all have good hooks. Teen and tween girls likely will relate to the lyrics of many of the songs and they cover some pretty universal teen themes - boys, broken hearts, family etc. Some of the songs are certainly stronger than others, but overall, the album will be enjoyed by its target audience.
Interest Level: 8-14 years old
Genre: Country/Pop Music
About the Artist: Taylor Swift is a teen performer/singer/songwriter. In 2008 she was one of the highest selling recording artists in the United States. Her music began as being mostly country but has moved into the pop genre.
Curriculum Ties: None
Challenge Issues: None. If any , research lyrics, reviews of album, interviews with Taylor Swift.
Booktalking Ideas: N/A
Selection Process: Recommended by a friends daughter.
Summary: "Fearless" is Taylor Swift's second album on which she has written 7 of the songs and co-written 6 of them. The songs are a mix of country and pop.
Critical Evaluation: This popular singer/songwriter is popular for a reason. The tracks are catchy, well written and all have good hooks. Teen and tween girls likely will relate to the lyrics of many of the songs and they cover some pretty universal teen themes - boys, broken hearts, family etc. Some of the songs are certainly stronger than others, but overall, the album will be enjoyed by its target audience.
Interest Level: 8-14 years old
Genre: Country/Pop Music
About the Artist: Taylor Swift is a teen performer/singer/songwriter. In 2008 she was one of the highest selling recording artists in the United States. Her music began as being mostly country but has moved into the pop genre.
Curriculum Ties: None
Challenge Issues: None. If any , research lyrics, reviews of album, interviews with Taylor Swift.
Booktalking Ideas: N/A
Selection Process: Recommended by a friends daughter.
The Lost Jewels of Nabooti
Plot Summary: The beauty of the choose your won adventure series is that the plot changes every time based on the direction the reader chooses to take. In this edition, the story begins when the reader received a letter from their cousins asking for help locating the Jewels of Nabooti. The reader takes off and can head to Europe of Africa and the adventure goes ahead from there.
Critical Evaluation: This series is very light on character development and plot. The thrill of reading these books comes from being in control of the story, not from the quality of the writing. That being said, the book was fun to read and it is enjoyable seeing where ones decisions lead.
Reader's Annotation: Your cousins need you to assist them in tracking down the mysterious Lost Jewels of Nabooti. Will you go? What happens if you so? It is up to you to find out!
About the Author: R.A. Mongomery is the author of the "Choose your Own Adventure Series". He also owns a small publishing company in Vermont.
Genre: Mystery/Adventure
Interest Level: 7-12 Years old
Curriculum Ties: None
Challenge Issues: None
If any, the series can be researched as well as teen reviews of the books from amazon.com.
Booktalking Ideas:
Do you ever get frustrated with the choices a character makes? How would you like to make your own?
Selection Process: I read these when I was younger and wanted to re-read.
Critical Evaluation: This series is very light on character development and plot. The thrill of reading these books comes from being in control of the story, not from the quality of the writing. That being said, the book was fun to read and it is enjoyable seeing where ones decisions lead.
Reader's Annotation: Your cousins need you to assist them in tracking down the mysterious Lost Jewels of Nabooti. Will you go? What happens if you so? It is up to you to find out!
About the Author: R.A. Mongomery is the author of the "Choose your Own Adventure Series". He also owns a small publishing company in Vermont.
Genre: Mystery/Adventure
Interest Level: 7-12 Years old
Curriculum Ties: None
Challenge Issues: None
If any, the series can be researched as well as teen reviews of the books from amazon.com.
Booktalking Ideas:
Do you ever get frustrated with the choices a character makes? How would you like to make your own?
Selection Process: I read these when I was younger and wanted to re-read.
Sir Gawain and the Green Knight
Michael Morpurgo. Illustrations by Michael Foreman. Walker Books Ltd. 2004 ISBN: 978-0744586466.
Plot Summary: King Author's court is shocked when a giant green Knight rudely interrupts their feast and demands some exchange axe blows with him. Gawain, known as the best of Knights agrees to take part in the challenge. Although he slices off the giants head, the green knight picks up his head and informs Gawain that he must come to him in a year and a day to receive his blow in exchange. Later that year, on his way to meet the green knight, Gawain stops at the castle of a hospitable lord an his beautiful lady. He spends three nights there being well treated by the lord and wooed by his beautiful wife. He manages not to give into the temptation of the lovely wife but does take from her a gift she offers of a green magical best that will protect him. He meets the green Knight at his chapel and discovers all is not what it seems.
Critical Evaluation: This is an excellent rendition of the traditional tale. The author has done a great job of making the legend accessible to the tween age group without taking away from the moral or the details of the tale. The illustrations are beautifully done and capture the mood of the story effectively.
Reader's Annotation: Gawain is challenged by the magical Green Knight. He is honor bound to fulfill his promise to journey to the Green Knight's chapel and has an adventure on his way to what he believes is certain death.
Genre: Myth/Fantasy
Interest Level: 8-12 years old
Curriculum ties: History, Literature
Booktalking Ideas:
Focus on Gawain's choice to return to meet his fate.
Focus on Gawain resisting the beautiful wife of his host.
Challenge Issues: There are no challenge issues with this book.
If any arise, it could be recommended that the Arthurian mythology could be research as well as other versions of the same legend.
Selection Process: I wanted to include some illustrated stories.
Plot Summary: King Author's court is shocked when a giant green Knight rudely interrupts their feast and demands some exchange axe blows with him. Gawain, known as the best of Knights agrees to take part in the challenge. Although he slices off the giants head, the green knight picks up his head and informs Gawain that he must come to him in a year and a day to receive his blow in exchange. Later that year, on his way to meet the green knight, Gawain stops at the castle of a hospitable lord an his beautiful lady. He spends three nights there being well treated by the lord and wooed by his beautiful wife. He manages not to give into the temptation of the lovely wife but does take from her a gift she offers of a green magical best that will protect him. He meets the green Knight at his chapel and discovers all is not what it seems.
Critical Evaluation: This is an excellent rendition of the traditional tale. The author has done a great job of making the legend accessible to the tween age group without taking away from the moral or the details of the tale. The illustrations are beautifully done and capture the mood of the story effectively.
Reader's Annotation: Gawain is challenged by the magical Green Knight. He is honor bound to fulfill his promise to journey to the Green Knight's chapel and has an adventure on his way to what he believes is certain death.
Genre: Myth/Fantasy
Interest Level: 8-12 years old
Curriculum ties: History, Literature
Booktalking Ideas:
Focus on Gawain's choice to return to meet his fate.
Focus on Gawain resisting the beautiful wife of his host.
Challenge Issues: There are no challenge issues with this book.
If any arise, it could be recommended that the Arthurian mythology could be research as well as other versions of the same legend.
Selection Process: I wanted to include some illustrated stories.
Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing
Judy Blume. Scholastic Inc., 2002. ISBN: 978-0439559867
Plot Summary: Peter is getting fed up with his little brother. Fudge is 21/2 and he rules their apartment and their family. Not only will he not leave Dribble, Peter's turtle alone, but he eats under the table like a dog at mealtimes! Fudge's behavior takes up all his parent's time and attention and leaves little for well behaved Peter. Peter can't even get his parents help in defending his room from his little brother. When a turtle disaster strikes, how will the family cope? Will Peter's good behavior be rewarded?
Critical Evaluation: This book is well written and will appeal to the tween age group. Reader's will sympathize with Peter and i feelings ob being invisible at times in his family. Peter's character will also set a good example to young reader's as he is responsible, gentle, a good friend, and a considerate member of his family. While the book contains a good message, it is not too preachy or heavy handed that it will turn reader's off.
Reader's Annotation: Poor Peter! His 21/2 year old brother Fudge is ruining his life. If he's not throwing tantrums in restaurants he is wrecking Peter's school project. How can Peter cat some attention from his parents if Fudge is taking it all?
Genre: Humor/Fiction
Interest Level: 8-12 years old
Curriculum Ties: None
Challenge Issues: None.
If any, can be directed to research the author and the awards she has received, read reviews written of the book by tweens, or speak to librarians about other books in the genre.
About the Author: Judy Blume is the author of many classics for the tween and teen age group including: Super Fudge, Otherwise Known and Sheila the Great, Freckle Juice and many others. She has won over 90 awards for her writing and also has the honor of being one of the "most banned" children's authors. Are you there God, It's Me, Margaret?, is rated number 62 on the list of the top 100 challenged books.
Selection Process: Selected from library display.
Plot Summary: Peter is getting fed up with his little brother. Fudge is 21/2 and he rules their apartment and their family. Not only will he not leave Dribble, Peter's turtle alone, but he eats under the table like a dog at mealtimes! Fudge's behavior takes up all his parent's time and attention and leaves little for well behaved Peter. Peter can't even get his parents help in defending his room from his little brother. When a turtle disaster strikes, how will the family cope? Will Peter's good behavior be rewarded?
Critical Evaluation: This book is well written and will appeal to the tween age group. Reader's will sympathize with Peter and i feelings ob being invisible at times in his family. Peter's character will also set a good example to young reader's as he is responsible, gentle, a good friend, and a considerate member of his family. While the book contains a good message, it is not too preachy or heavy handed that it will turn reader's off.
Reader's Annotation: Poor Peter! His 21/2 year old brother Fudge is ruining his life. If he's not throwing tantrums in restaurants he is wrecking Peter's school project. How can Peter cat some attention from his parents if Fudge is taking it all?
Genre: Humor/Fiction
Interest Level: 8-12 years old
Curriculum Ties: None
Challenge Issues: None.
If any, can be directed to research the author and the awards she has received, read reviews written of the book by tweens, or speak to librarians about other books in the genre.
About the Author: Judy Blume is the author of many classics for the tween and teen age group including: Super Fudge, Otherwise Known and Sheila the Great, Freckle Juice and many others. She has won over 90 awards for her writing and also has the honor of being one of the "most banned" children's authors. Are you there God, It's Me, Margaret?, is rated number 62 on the list of the top 100 challenged books.
Selection Process: Selected from library display.
Monday, November 30, 2009
Forgotten Realms: Homeland
R.A. Salvatore. Script by Andrew Dabb. Illustrations by Tim Seeley, Amdrew Pepoy, Marco Galli. Devils Due Publishing, 2006. ISBN: 978-1932796582.
Plot Summary: This is the first in a series of comic book adaptions of the work of R.A. Salvatore. Drizzt has grown up Menzoberranzan, a dark and terrible underground city in the Forgotten Realm. While Drizzt is honorable, brave and courageous, many of the others in his society are dishonest and cruel, and without morals. Drizzt is lucky to be alive after being marked for sacrifice as a baby. He has grown up as a part of the royal house and has received expert training in combat but has grown disillusioned with his society. When taking part in a violent raid of a village, he spares the life of a young girl. This act of mercy gains him the wrath of the Demon Queen of Spiders, which may bring about the fall of his family.
Critical Evaluation: This book certainly has a lot to offer. While it is a dark story full of violence and somewhat graphic scenes, it is also the story of the struggle of good against evil. The illustrations add a great deal of depth to the story. The illustrators and colorist really brought the dark and sinister nature of the city and many of it's inhabitants to life in the graphics. The characters are multi dimensional and the reader is quickly drawn into the story. Overall, the book almost gives the sense of bringing to the page a mythology or even a time in history. Even though it is fantasy, it has a realistic edge to it.
Reader's Annotation: Drizzt lives in a terrible place where other are cruel, dishonest and violent. Can the royal Drizzt bring principles to the lawless society? Or will his act of kindness bring about the fall of his family?
About the Author: Robert Salvatore has written a great deal of fantasy fiction. He is best known for his "Forgotten Realms" Series. He has also overseen the completion of many projects in the genre such as the "War of the Spider Queen" series. He is known for dark tales full of ethical decisions and intense battle scenes.
Genre: Fantasy/Adventure
Interest Level: 12-18
Booktalking Ideas:
Focus on difference between Drizzt and the others in his society.
What do you do if you disagree with everyone around you?
Curriculum Ties: None
Challenge Issues: There are several issues that are likely to be challenged in this work: Many of the women wear slightly revealing and sexual outfits, there are depictions of violence and death, and the dark illustrations may make this book scary for some readers.
If a challenge does arise, it could be recommend that they read reviews of the book or the author. They could also research the genre of literature.
Selection Process: Recommended on a blog
Plot Summary: This is the first in a series of comic book adaptions of the work of R.A. Salvatore. Drizzt has grown up Menzoberranzan, a dark and terrible underground city in the Forgotten Realm. While Drizzt is honorable, brave and courageous, many of the others in his society are dishonest and cruel, and without morals. Drizzt is lucky to be alive after being marked for sacrifice as a baby. He has grown up as a part of the royal house and has received expert training in combat but has grown disillusioned with his society. When taking part in a violent raid of a village, he spares the life of a young girl. This act of mercy gains him the wrath of the Demon Queen of Spiders, which may bring about the fall of his family.
Critical Evaluation: This book certainly has a lot to offer. While it is a dark story full of violence and somewhat graphic scenes, it is also the story of the struggle of good against evil. The illustrations add a great deal of depth to the story. The illustrators and colorist really brought the dark and sinister nature of the city and many of it's inhabitants to life in the graphics. The characters are multi dimensional and the reader is quickly drawn into the story. Overall, the book almost gives the sense of bringing to the page a mythology or even a time in history. Even though it is fantasy, it has a realistic edge to it.
Reader's Annotation: Drizzt lives in a terrible place where other are cruel, dishonest and violent. Can the royal Drizzt bring principles to the lawless society? Or will his act of kindness bring about the fall of his family?
About the Author: Robert Salvatore has written a great deal of fantasy fiction. He is best known for his "Forgotten Realms" Series. He has also overseen the completion of many projects in the genre such as the "War of the Spider Queen" series. He is known for dark tales full of ethical decisions and intense battle scenes.
Genre: Fantasy/Adventure
Interest Level: 12-18
Booktalking Ideas:
Focus on difference between Drizzt and the others in his society.
What do you do if you disagree with everyone around you?
Curriculum Ties: None
Challenge Issues: There are several issues that are likely to be challenged in this work: Many of the women wear slightly revealing and sexual outfits, there are depictions of violence and death, and the dark illustrations may make this book scary for some readers.
If a challenge does arise, it could be recommend that they read reviews of the book or the author. They could also research the genre of literature.
Selection Process: Recommended on a blog
The Thanksgiving Visitor
Truman Capote. Illustrated by Beth Peck. Knopf Books for Young Readers. 1996. ISBN: 978-0679838982
Plot Summary: Buddy is a second grader with a big problem! He is always being bullied by Odd Henderson, the meanest boy in the class. Eventually, his teacher suggests that Buddy attempt to become friends with Odd and extend an invitation to Thanksgiving dinner. Buddy is not too happy with this idea. Buddy lives with his extended family including his best friend, his elderly cousin Miss Sooke. Thanksgiving was normally a very special time for the two of them and they both looked forward to completing the holiday preparations together. Buddy dreads having Buddy take part in the celebrations and his fears are realized when Buddy commits a terrible act while visiting.
Critical Evaluation: Capote does an excellent job of creating a very cosy and homey feel to the book. He brings to live Alabama in 1932 with his descriptions of the food, the people, and the surroundings. The illustration add a great deal to the story as well with their warmth and depictions of everyday moments.Without being very detailed, the paintings impart the mood of the story very clearly. This would be an excellent story for reading aloud during the holidays. The story itself is interesting, full of good detail, and contains a gentle and timeless message.
Reader's Annotation: Buddy loves his live and his family and is looking forward to helping Miss Sooke with the preparations for Thanksgiving. The only thing that might wreck it is having to invite Odd, the biggest bully in town, to share in the Holiday.
Curriculum Ties: Could be read aloud in the classroom around the holiday times. History.
Interest Level: 8-14
Booktalking Ideas: Interest Level: 8-14
How do you deal with a bully? Can people change or are "bad" people always that way?
Focus on relationship between Buddy and Miss Sooke.
Challenge Issues: None. If any, can recommend researching Author or reading reviews of the story.
Selection Process: Found by searching "youth holiday books"
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Arf and the Three Dogs
Philip Wooderson. Illustrated by Bridget MacKeith. London: A&C Black Publishers, 2002. ISBN: 0-7136-6272-7
Plot Summary: Arf is a young boy saving up for a new computer game.He decides that we will work as a news reporter to earn some extra money. He decides to find out more information about "Barmy Barney" and his terrible dogs. Arf even "borrows" his mothers camera as he feels a picture of the man in action will guarantee him a story in the paper if it is accompanies by a picture. He finally manages to get a snap of the three dogs looking vicious. Eventually he must decide whom to sell the photos to as he becomes involved with local doggie politics.
Critical Evaluation: While the story is fast paced and interesting to read, the illustrations really don't add anything to the plot or the enjoyment of the story. While it is in graphic format, it may be more enjoyable without the illustrations. The illustrations are very simple and cartoonish and really don't do a good job of portraying facial expressions or emotions making this more of a cartoon book rather than a graphic novel.
Reader's Annotation: Arf is determined to make some extra money. He takes some pictures of three vicious looking dogs and suddenly become a part of a doggie scandal.
About the Author: Philip Wooderson is the author of over 20 books for youth. He has written several graphic novels and also historical fiction for tweens.
Genre: Graphic Novel
Curriculum ties: None
Challenge Issues: Some may object to the genre of graphic novels. To defend, suggest they research the genre or recommend some award winning examples of the genre of graphic novels.
Interest Level: 8-12 years old
Booktalking Ideas:
Do you like solving mysteries and writing about them? Arf is a boy who did just that.
Focus on character of bossy older sister.
Selection Process: On display at library
Plot Summary: Arf is a young boy saving up for a new computer game.He decides that we will work as a news reporter to earn some extra money. He decides to find out more information about "Barmy Barney" and his terrible dogs. Arf even "borrows" his mothers camera as he feels a picture of the man in action will guarantee him a story in the paper if it is accompanies by a picture. He finally manages to get a snap of the three dogs looking vicious. Eventually he must decide whom to sell the photos to as he becomes involved with local doggie politics.
Critical Evaluation: While the story is fast paced and interesting to read, the illustrations really don't add anything to the plot or the enjoyment of the story. While it is in graphic format, it may be more enjoyable without the illustrations. The illustrations are very simple and cartoonish and really don't do a good job of portraying facial expressions or emotions making this more of a cartoon book rather than a graphic novel.
Reader's Annotation: Arf is determined to make some extra money. He takes some pictures of three vicious looking dogs and suddenly become a part of a doggie scandal.
About the Author: Philip Wooderson is the author of over 20 books for youth. He has written several graphic novels and also historical fiction for tweens.
Genre: Graphic Novel
Curriculum ties: None
Challenge Issues: Some may object to the genre of graphic novels. To defend, suggest they research the genre or recommend some award winning examples of the genre of graphic novels.
Interest Level: 8-12 years old
Booktalking Ideas:
Do you like solving mysteries and writing about them? Arf is a boy who did just that.
Focus on character of bossy older sister.
Selection Process: On display at library
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
The Best Damn Thing
Avril Lavigne. Arista Records, 2003. ASIN: B000NA1OXY.
Plot Summary: N/A
Critical Evaluation: The third album released by Arvil Lavigne, is a great pop/rock album. It has 12 catchy tracks; a mix of bubbly pop and several slightly edgier ones and overall will appeal to a wide audience. There are lots of danceable tunes and catchy lyrics that get stuck in your head. Some of the lyrics may be a bit edgy and several of the songs have a fair number of vulgarities which may not appeal to some parents.
Annotation: N/A
Genre: Pop/Rock
Curriculum Ties: None
Booktalking Ideas: N/A
Interest Level: 10-18
Challenge Issues: There is some vulgarity in several of the songs. Those who are upset by this can research the artists lyrics, or the label and rating placed on the album by the record company.
Selection Process: Recommended by a friends daughter.
Plot Summary: N/A
Critical Evaluation: The third album released by Arvil Lavigne, is a great pop/rock album. It has 12 catchy tracks; a mix of bubbly pop and several slightly edgier ones and overall will appeal to a wide audience. There are lots of danceable tunes and catchy lyrics that get stuck in your head. Some of the lyrics may be a bit edgy and several of the songs have a fair number of vulgarities which may not appeal to some parents.
Annotation: N/A
Genre: Pop/Rock
Curriculum Ties: None
Booktalking Ideas: N/A
Interest Level: 10-18
Challenge Issues: There is some vulgarity in several of the songs. Those who are upset by this can research the artists lyrics, or the label and rating placed on the album by the record company.
Selection Process: Recommended by a friends daughter.
Twilight
Directed by Catherine Hardwicke. Starring Kirsten Stewart and Robert Patterson. Based on the book by Stephenie Meyer. Summit Entertainment, 2008. ASIN:B001P5HRMI
Plot Summary: Bella moves to a small town near Seattle to live with her father. She quickly begins to feel drawn to the mysterious Edward. Edward is not like the others in the town and Bella eventually discover the truth about him; he is a vampire. They both realize their strong feelings for each other and begin to try to figure out where they belong together. When a rival gang of Vampires appears in their area, Edward and his family must fight to protect Bella and her father.
Critical Evaluation: This is a good choice for tweens that are drawn to the horror/fantasy genre or enjoy romances. The acting may leave something to be desired and at times it is very apparent that this movie was made on a relatively small budget. Overall however, the locations set a great sombre gloomy mood for the scenes and it is reasonably entertaining to watch. The lack of sexual content despite the romance element also makes it a good choice for this age group.
Annotation: Bella moves to a small town on the West Coast to live with her father. She quickly meets and falls in love with Edward, who along with his family, has a big secret to protect.
Author Info: Stephenie Meyer is the author of the popular Twilight series. She has also written novels for adults including The Host.
Curriculum Ties: None
Genre: Romance,Horror, Fantasy
Interest Level: 10-18
Challenge Issues: Some may have issues with the depiction of "demons". They can be encouraged to research the genre and read reviews of the book and the movie.
Selection Process: This is one of the most popular series for tween and teens at the moment.
Plot Summary: Bella moves to a small town near Seattle to live with her father. She quickly begins to feel drawn to the mysterious Edward. Edward is not like the others in the town and Bella eventually discover the truth about him; he is a vampire. They both realize their strong feelings for each other and begin to try to figure out where they belong together. When a rival gang of Vampires appears in their area, Edward and his family must fight to protect Bella and her father.
Critical Evaluation: This is a good choice for tweens that are drawn to the horror/fantasy genre or enjoy romances. The acting may leave something to be desired and at times it is very apparent that this movie was made on a relatively small budget. Overall however, the locations set a great sombre gloomy mood for the scenes and it is reasonably entertaining to watch. The lack of sexual content despite the romance element also makes it a good choice for this age group.
Annotation: Bella moves to a small town on the West Coast to live with her father. She quickly meets and falls in love with Edward, who along with his family, has a big secret to protect.
Author Info: Stephenie Meyer is the author of the popular Twilight series. She has also written novels for adults including The Host.
Curriculum Ties: None
Genre: Romance,Horror, Fantasy
Interest Level: 10-18
Challenge Issues: Some may have issues with the depiction of "demons". They can be encouraged to research the genre and read reviews of the book and the movie.
Selection Process: This is one of the most popular series for tween and teens at the moment.
The Runner
Cynthia Voigt. Simon Pulse, 2005. ISBN: 978-1416903413
Plot Summary: Samuel Tillerman, or Bullet as he is know in his school, lives to be alone and to run cross country. He lives with his father and mother in an isolated area of the community. His brother and sister have already fled the home and Bullet struggles to gain Independence from his strict, close minded father, and to find love from his mother, who is unable to show love. Bullet is a loner who has few friends. The only person he feels close to is Patrice, a man who works on boats with Bullet. When a black teenager joins Bullet's track team, Bullet's racist views surface. While he struggles to become the man he wants to be, he learns something about relationships and what makes people become who they are.
Critical Evaluation: This is a very well written book that tackles some big issues such as racism, emotional abuse, and loneliness. While there are some mature themes, situations, and language in the book, overall it is a good choice for tweens and teens.
Reader's Annotation: There is nobody in the school faster than Bullet. He spends all his time alone and training for cross country. He runs to get away from his parents, his home, and to isolate himself. He can't run forever so will he change or will people change him?
About the Author: Cynthia Voigt is the author of many books for tweens and young adults including the "Tillerman Series", which focuses on the lives of the tillerman family.
Genre: Fiction, coming of age
Curriculum Ties: None
Booktalking Ideas: Focus on relationship between Bullet and his father.
Interest Level: 10-14
Challenge Issues: There is racist behavior and language in the book. For those who are upset by it, they can be directed to research the time period the book takes place.
Selection Process: I read it for my author study.
Plot Summary: Samuel Tillerman, or Bullet as he is know in his school, lives to be alone and to run cross country. He lives with his father and mother in an isolated area of the community. His brother and sister have already fled the home and Bullet struggles to gain Independence from his strict, close minded father, and to find love from his mother, who is unable to show love. Bullet is a loner who has few friends. The only person he feels close to is Patrice, a man who works on boats with Bullet. When a black teenager joins Bullet's track team, Bullet's racist views surface. While he struggles to become the man he wants to be, he learns something about relationships and what makes people become who they are.
Critical Evaluation: This is a very well written book that tackles some big issues such as racism, emotional abuse, and loneliness. While there are some mature themes, situations, and language in the book, overall it is a good choice for tweens and teens.
Reader's Annotation: There is nobody in the school faster than Bullet. He spends all his time alone and training for cross country. He runs to get away from his parents, his home, and to isolate himself. He can't run forever so will he change or will people change him?
About the Author: Cynthia Voigt is the author of many books for tweens and young adults including the "Tillerman Series", which focuses on the lives of the tillerman family.
Genre: Fiction, coming of age
Curriculum Ties: None
Booktalking Ideas: Focus on relationship between Bullet and his father.
Interest Level: 10-14
Challenge Issues: There is racist behavior and language in the book. For those who are upset by it, they can be directed to research the time period the book takes place.
Selection Process: I read it for my author study.
Monday, November 16, 2009
Bad Girls
Cynthia Voigt. Scholastic, 1997. ISBN: 978-0590601351
Plot Summary: Mikey and Margalo meet on the first day of 5th grade. They are both new to the school and uneasy about fitting into their new class. The seating is alphabetical which puts them together. They discover very quickly that while on the surface they appear very different, inside they both like being bad, although for different reasons. As a pair, they quickly put the rest of the class on alert. No-one knows what the pair will do next. Mikey likes to settle things physically, while Margalo schemes and manipulates. Together they become a force to be reckoned with as they slowly begin to trust each other and form a friendship.
Critical Evaluation: This would make a good read for tween girls. It deals with a lot of issues that are big for that age group such as fitting in, problems with teachers, and how to manage anger and hurt. The characters of the two girls makes for an interesting examination of the motivation behind "bad" behavior as they each have very different motivations. The book is well written and tackles difficult issues while still being accessible to a tween audience.
Reader's Annotation: Mikey and Margalo share more than the same initials, they share a love of causing trouble in their 5th grade classroom. No-one is a match for these two as between them they have brain and brawn.
About the Author: Cynthia Voigt is the author of numerous books for youth and young adults. She has won a number of awards and is recognized as a writer of quality youth fiction. Other works include: Homecoming, The Runner, Dicey's Song.
Genre: Humor, Fiction
Curriculum Ties: None
Booktalking: Focus on relationship between Margalo and Mikey, focus on pranks they pull in the classroom.
Interest Level: Ages 9-12
Challenge Issues: There is physical violence between students.
If reader's object, they can be directed to research the author or reviews of the book.
Selection Process: I read it for my author study.
Plot Summary: Mikey and Margalo meet on the first day of 5th grade. They are both new to the school and uneasy about fitting into their new class. The seating is alphabetical which puts them together. They discover very quickly that while on the surface they appear very different, inside they both like being bad, although for different reasons. As a pair, they quickly put the rest of the class on alert. No-one knows what the pair will do next. Mikey likes to settle things physically, while Margalo schemes and manipulates. Together they become a force to be reckoned with as they slowly begin to trust each other and form a friendship.
Critical Evaluation: This would make a good read for tween girls. It deals with a lot of issues that are big for that age group such as fitting in, problems with teachers, and how to manage anger and hurt. The characters of the two girls makes for an interesting examination of the motivation behind "bad" behavior as they each have very different motivations. The book is well written and tackles difficult issues while still being accessible to a tween audience.
Reader's Annotation: Mikey and Margalo share more than the same initials, they share a love of causing trouble in their 5th grade classroom. No-one is a match for these two as between them they have brain and brawn.
About the Author: Cynthia Voigt is the author of numerous books for youth and young adults. She has won a number of awards and is recognized as a writer of quality youth fiction. Other works include: Homecoming, The Runner, Dicey's Song.
Genre: Humor, Fiction
Curriculum Ties: None
Booktalking: Focus on relationship between Margalo and Mikey, focus on pranks they pull in the classroom.
Interest Level: Ages 9-12
Challenge Issues: There is physical violence between students.
If reader's object, they can be directed to research the author or reviews of the book.
Selection Process: I read it for my author study.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
The Boys Body Book: Everything You Need to Know for Growing Up YOU.
Kelli Dunham. Illustrated by Steven Bjorkman. Applesauce Press, 2007. ISBN: 978-1933662749.
Plot Summary: This is the book for any boy who has questions that he is too shy to ask his parents, teacher, or friends. It provides accurate and accessible information about puberty, sex, changing bodies, etc. There are pictures, graphs and all sorts of factual information about what is happening in the body of boys arriving at puberty.
Critical Evaluation: This book would be a good choice to give to a boy who has questions about his body. The way the book is written is assessable to the age group and is written with a degree of humor. The information is presented in a format that is easy to follow and it is simple to find answers to specific questions.
Reader's Annotation: Curious about body hair, voice changes, sex or what is going on in your body? This book will answer all your questions and then some.
About the Author: Kelli Dunham is the author of a variety of information books for tweens, young adults, as well as families and parents. Her home page describes her as "everyone's favorite ex-nun, nerdalicious author and comic." She is registered nurse and a stand up comic.
Genre: Nonfiction, Self Help
Curriculum Ties: Sexual Health
Booktalking Ideas: Do you have questions about your body? Are you wondering about puberty? Then this is the book for you!
Interest Level: 8-14
Challenge Issues: Some parents may not want their children reading about sexual health and their bodies. I would recommend to them that they research their school districts policies about sexual education and research how to best talk to their kids about puberty and their bodies.
Selection Process: I saw it listed on the author's website.
Plot Summary: This is the book for any boy who has questions that he is too shy to ask his parents, teacher, or friends. It provides accurate and accessible information about puberty, sex, changing bodies, etc. There are pictures, graphs and all sorts of factual information about what is happening in the body of boys arriving at puberty.
Critical Evaluation: This book would be a good choice to give to a boy who has questions about his body. The way the book is written is assessable to the age group and is written with a degree of humor. The information is presented in a format that is easy to follow and it is simple to find answers to specific questions.
Reader's Annotation: Curious about body hair, voice changes, sex or what is going on in your body? This book will answer all your questions and then some.
About the Author: Kelli Dunham is the author of a variety of information books for tweens, young adults, as well as families and parents. Her home page describes her as "everyone's favorite ex-nun, nerdalicious author and comic." She is registered nurse and a stand up comic.
Genre: Nonfiction, Self Help
Curriculum Ties: Sexual Health
Booktalking Ideas: Do you have questions about your body? Are you wondering about puberty? Then this is the book for you!
Interest Level: 8-14
Challenge Issues: Some parents may not want their children reading about sexual health and their bodies. I would recommend to them that they research their school districts policies about sexual education and research how to best talk to their kids about puberty and their bodies.
Selection Process: I saw it listed on the author's website.
Tiger Beat
Summary: Tiger Beat is a celebrity gossip magazine geared for tween girls. It contains write ups on celebrities admired by tweens. There are a large number of photographs, and tear out posters. Information such as celebrity likes and dislikes, movies and music are all covered in teh magazine.
Critical Evaluation: This is the type of magazine that no one over the age of perhaps 16 can understand why a person would read. There is very little actual information and the contents of the magazine seem to be repeated from month to month. There are a great deal of glossy, heavily stylized photographs and also a great deal of "teenspeak", which makes it appealing to tweens and almost unreadable for others.
Author Info: N/A
Genre: Celebrity Magazine
Curriculum Ties: None
Booktalking Ideas: N/A
Interest Level: 8-12
Challenge Issues: None
If any, can be directed to research the Tigerbeat/Bop magazine or research tween hobbies and fascination with celebrities.
Selection Process: I was a huge fan of this magazine when I was young.
Critical Evaluation: This is the type of magazine that no one over the age of perhaps 16 can understand why a person would read. There is very little actual information and the contents of the magazine seem to be repeated from month to month. There are a great deal of glossy, heavily stylized photographs and also a great deal of "teenspeak", which makes it appealing to tweens and almost unreadable for others.
Author Info: N/A
Genre: Celebrity Magazine
Curriculum Ties: None
Booktalking Ideas: N/A
Interest Level: 8-12
Challenge Issues: None
If any, can be directed to research the Tigerbeat/Bop magazine or research tween hobbies and fascination with celebrities.
Selection Process: I was a huge fan of this magazine when I was young.
www.girlsinc.org
www.girlsinc.org "Inspiring all girls to be strong, smart and bold."
Summary: This website is designed to assist girls of all from 8 and up develop healthy self esteem and set positive goals. The website focuses on education, current events, and physical and emotional strength. There are areas for girls to post poems and artwork. There are also ideas for activities and projects and how to get started being active in their communities.
Critical Evaluation: This is a great website for girls who want to be well informed about what is happening in the world and their communities. There are countless ideas and opportunities outlined for girls to empower themselves with knowledge and by being strong in their daily lives. The website is also well put together and easy to use.
Reader's Annotation: A website geared towards tween and teen girls that focuses on empowerment, current events, and being the best that they can be.
Author Info: girlsinc is a national non profit organization "dedicated to inspiring girls to be strong, smart and bold".
Genre: Website
Curriculum Ties: Would be a useful tool in many classrooms
Booktalking Ideas: N/A
Interest Level: 8-16
Challenge Issues: None.
If any, can be directed to research organization or look at the website.
Selection Process: Found for a client.
Summary: This website is designed to assist girls of all from 8 and up develop healthy self esteem and set positive goals. The website focuses on education, current events, and physical and emotional strength. There are areas for girls to post poems and artwork. There are also ideas for activities and projects and how to get started being active in their communities.
Critical Evaluation: This is a great website for girls who want to be well informed about what is happening in the world and their communities. There are countless ideas and opportunities outlined for girls to empower themselves with knowledge and by being strong in their daily lives. The website is also well put together and easy to use.
Reader's Annotation: A website geared towards tween and teen girls that focuses on empowerment, current events, and being the best that they can be.
Author Info: girlsinc is a national non profit organization "dedicated to inspiring girls to be strong, smart and bold".
Genre: Website
Curriculum Ties: Would be a useful tool in many classrooms
Booktalking Ideas: N/A
Interest Level: 8-16
Challenge Issues: None.
If any, can be directed to research organization or look at the website.
Selection Process: Found for a client.
Monday, November 9, 2009
Freddy and the French Fries#1 - Fries Alive
David Baldacci. Little Brown Books for Young Readers, 2006. ISBN: 978-0316059015
Plot Summary: Freddy has an unusual family that run an unusual restaurant. His sister thinks she was meant for the stage and his father is convinced that healthy eating is the way of the future and serves only super healthy options in his failing restaurant. Across the street, business is booming at the local fast food super outlet. Freddy comes up with a plan to draw in diners - he constructs 5 "Super fries", each with their own big personality. Will it be enough to convince people to eat tofu dogs? When Freddy loses control of the fries as the battle with the competition is heating up, things get even more interesting.
Critical Evaluation: This book has a fairly original plot line and very vivid characters. I also like that it has a focus on healthy eating, although Freddy's family does come off as a little wacky when it comes to food. I think that tweens would enjoy this book - both boys and girls although it does seem to be more focused on the male audience.
Reader's Annotation: Freddy Funkhouser has come up with a great idea to save his families failing healthfood restaurant. He makes 5 mechanical french fries that each have their own distinct personalities.
About the Author: David Baldacci is a New York bestselling author of several novels geared for adult readers.
Genre: Science Fiction/Fantasy
Curriculum Ties: Science, Food and Nutrition
Booktalking Ideas: Focus on character of Freddy's David's sister and father, focus on science and making robots with personalities, focus on health food VS fast food
Interest Level: 9-12
Challenge Issues: None.
If any, could be recommended to research reviews of the series.
Selection Process: Saw in youth section of library.
Plot Summary: Freddy has an unusual family that run an unusual restaurant. His sister thinks she was meant for the stage and his father is convinced that healthy eating is the way of the future and serves only super healthy options in his failing restaurant. Across the street, business is booming at the local fast food super outlet. Freddy comes up with a plan to draw in diners - he constructs 5 "Super fries", each with their own big personality. Will it be enough to convince people to eat tofu dogs? When Freddy loses control of the fries as the battle with the competition is heating up, things get even more interesting.
Critical Evaluation: This book has a fairly original plot line and very vivid characters. I also like that it has a focus on healthy eating, although Freddy's family does come off as a little wacky when it comes to food. I think that tweens would enjoy this book - both boys and girls although it does seem to be more focused on the male audience.
Reader's Annotation: Freddy Funkhouser has come up with a great idea to save his families failing healthfood restaurant. He makes 5 mechanical french fries that each have their own distinct personalities.
About the Author: David Baldacci is a New York bestselling author of several novels geared for adult readers.
Genre: Science Fiction/Fantasy
Curriculum Ties: Science, Food and Nutrition
Booktalking Ideas: Focus on character of Freddy's David's sister and father, focus on science and making robots with personalities, focus on health food VS fast food
Interest Level: 9-12
Challenge Issues: None.
If any, could be recommended to research reviews of the series.
Selection Process: Saw in youth section of library.
The English Roses 3 - The New Girl
Madonna. Illustrated by Jefferey Fulvimari. Puffin Books, 2007. ISBN: 978-0412408841.
Plot Summary: The English Roses are five best friends who do everything together. They are in the midst of preparing for the annual school talent show when one of the girls has a friend that she has met on holidays come for a visit. The whole group dynamic is thrown off when jealousy become an issue between the girls. Eventually, the girls learn to appreciate each other and their differences.
Critical Evaluation: This book is fairly formulaic and predictable. There are no surprises in the plot and the characters are one dimensional. Some readers may enjoy reading about the affluent lifestyle of the main characters but it is unlikely that many tweens will be able to identify with the characters who are all wealthy, pretty, talented and popular.
Reader's Annotation: Nicole, one of a group of 5 best friends, is excited when her friend from the US comes to visit. Unfortunately, the addition of a new girl to the group threatens to wreck their performance in the school talent show. Will the girls be able to stay best friends?
Author Info: Madonna is a popular singer, song writer and performer. She has published several books in the "English Rose" series.
Genre: Fiction
Curriculum Ties: None
Booktalking Ideas: Focus on relationship of the 5 best friends, Have you ever felt like you didn't belong?
Interest Level: 8-12
Challenge Issues: None.
If any, could be directed to research reviews of the series.
Selection Process: I was curious to read something written by Madonna.
Plot Summary: The English Roses are five best friends who do everything together. They are in the midst of preparing for the annual school talent show when one of the girls has a friend that she has met on holidays come for a visit. The whole group dynamic is thrown off when jealousy become an issue between the girls. Eventually, the girls learn to appreciate each other and their differences.
Critical Evaluation: This book is fairly formulaic and predictable. There are no surprises in the plot and the characters are one dimensional. Some readers may enjoy reading about the affluent lifestyle of the main characters but it is unlikely that many tweens will be able to identify with the characters who are all wealthy, pretty, talented and popular.
Reader's Annotation: Nicole, one of a group of 5 best friends, is excited when her friend from the US comes to visit. Unfortunately, the addition of a new girl to the group threatens to wreck their performance in the school talent show. Will the girls be able to stay best friends?
Author Info: Madonna is a popular singer, song writer and performer. She has published several books in the "English Rose" series.
Genre: Fiction
Curriculum Ties: None
Booktalking Ideas: Focus on relationship of the 5 best friends, Have you ever felt like you didn't belong?
Interest Level: 8-12
Challenge Issues: None.
If any, could be directed to research reviews of the series.
Selection Process: I was curious to read something written by Madonna.
School of Rock
Paramount Pictures, 2003. Starring Jack Black. Directed by Richard Linklater. ASIN: B00018U9G6
Plot Summary: Jack Black plays Finn, a musician who gets kicked out of his band for being too showy. He manages to get a job as a substitute teacher in a private school. Rather than teach the curriculum, he uses the opportunity to turn his class into a rock band. He plans for his new student band to win an upcoming battle of the bands contest to show up his previous bandmates.
Critical Evaluation: This is a good choice for tweens or for a family movie. It is humorous an also a good choice for a music lover. It is well acted, by Jack Black and the group of younger actors. It is funny and age appropriate.
Annotation: Finn (played by Jack Black) becomes a substitute teacher in a private school. He teaches his class how to rock and roll but it all must be a secret from parents and the school principal.
Author Info: N/A
Genre: Comedy
Curriculum Ties: Music
Booktalking Ideas: N/A
Interest Level: 9-15
Challenge Issues: None.
If any, can be directed to read reviews of movie.
Selection Process: Recommended in Video store
Plot Summary: Jack Black plays Finn, a musician who gets kicked out of his band for being too showy. He manages to get a job as a substitute teacher in a private school. Rather than teach the curriculum, he uses the opportunity to turn his class into a rock band. He plans for his new student band to win an upcoming battle of the bands contest to show up his previous bandmates.
Critical Evaluation: This is a good choice for tweens or for a family movie. It is humorous an also a good choice for a music lover. It is well acted, by Jack Black and the group of younger actors. It is funny and age appropriate.
Annotation: Finn (played by Jack Black) becomes a substitute teacher in a private school. He teaches his class how to rock and roll but it all must be a secret from parents and the school principal.
Author Info: N/A
Genre: Comedy
Curriculum Ties: Music
Booktalking Ideas: N/A
Interest Level: 9-15
Challenge Issues: None.
If any, can be directed to read reviews of movie.
Selection Process: Recommended in Video store
Lego Indiana Jones: The Original Adventures
Lucas Arts. 2008 ASIN: B00104KJ3S
Summary: This game, rated "E for everyone" is a fun version of the popular Indiana Jones series. The game encompasses different scenes from all of the movies. Players play in scenes all over the globe and can play with over 60 different characters that are unlocked on different levels.
Reader's Annotation: N/A
Critical Evaluation: This is a fun game for all ages. The graphics, while sometimes a bit overdone with the lego, are interesting and clear. The game is very tongue in cheek, much like the movies. Over all, the game is fairly simple to play with clear instructions and is enjoyable. There are a variety of activities that layers take part in during the game which keeps it interesting through the levels.
Author Info: N/A
Genre: Video Game
Curriculum Ties: None
Booktalking Ideas: N/A
Interest Level: 8-15
Challenge Issues: There is violence in the game in the form of hand to hand combat. Those who do not agree with it can research the Indiana Jones movies and adventure movie and game genre.
Summary: This game, rated "E for everyone" is a fun version of the popular Indiana Jones series. The game encompasses different scenes from all of the movies. Players play in scenes all over the globe and can play with over 60 different characters that are unlocked on different levels.
Reader's Annotation: N/A
Critical Evaluation: This is a fun game for all ages. The graphics, while sometimes a bit overdone with the lego, are interesting and clear. The game is very tongue in cheek, much like the movies. Over all, the game is fairly simple to play with clear instructions and is enjoyable. There are a variety of activities that layers take part in during the game which keeps it interesting through the levels.
Author Info: N/A
Genre: Video Game
Curriculum Ties: None
Booktalking Ideas: N/A
Interest Level: 8-15
Challenge Issues: There is violence in the game in the form of hand to hand combat. Those who do not agree with it can research the Indiana Jones movies and adventure movie and game genre.
www.girlsense.com
www.girlsense.com
Plot Summary: This website is geared to tween girls with an interest in fashion. There are a variety of fashion focused games and users can create outfits and assemble wardrobes. There are also opportunities to create makeup looks and meet others with the same interests.
Critical Evaluation: This seems as thought it would be a fun website for this age group. The available outfits are not too revealing and are for the most part, age appropriate. The page is colorful and visually appealing. There is a great deal of variety in the activities and something to appeal to many personalities.
Readers Annotation: A website for tween girls focused on fashion and makeup.
Author Info: N/A
Genre: Website
Curriculum Ties: None
Booktalking Ideas: N/A
Interest Level: 9-13 years old
Challenge Issues: None.
If any, they could be advised to familiarize themselves with the site.
Selection Issues: Recommended on a forum.
Plot Summary: This website is geared to tween girls with an interest in fashion. There are a variety of fashion focused games and users can create outfits and assemble wardrobes. There are also opportunities to create makeup looks and meet others with the same interests.
Critical Evaluation: This seems as thought it would be a fun website for this age group. The available outfits are not too revealing and are for the most part, age appropriate. The page is colorful and visually appealing. There is a great deal of variety in the activities and something to appeal to many personalities.
Readers Annotation: A website for tween girls focused on fashion and makeup.
Author Info: N/A
Genre: Website
Curriculum Ties: None
Booktalking Ideas: N/A
Interest Level: 9-13 years old
Challenge Issues: None.
If any, they could be advised to familiarize themselves with the site.
Selection Issues: Recommended on a forum.
Friday, November 6, 2009
Grossology and You: Really Gross Things About Your Body
Sylvia Branzei. Illustrated by Jack Kelly. Price Stern Sloan, 2002. ISBN: 978-0843177367
Plot Summary: The human body can be pretty gross and this is the book that really demonstrated that. Find out about dead skin cells, funny smells and noises, and all of the gross things that make up the human body. This book makes you see your body in a whole new way!
Critical Evaluation: This book manages to be educational and appealing to our tween age group at the same time. There are lots of color photos, cartoons, and random disgusting facts that will keep the reader entertained for hours.
Reader's Annotation: Curious about toe cheese? Like to read about farts? Find out about these fun facts and a million others.
Genre: Non-fiction
Curriculum ties: Science
Booktalking Ideas: Do you even know how gross you are? Would you like to find out?
Interest Level: 9-12
Challenge Issues: None.
If any, can be recommended they research other books on the human body.
Selection Process: Saw in library display and I wanted to have a "body book" in the assignment.
Plot Summary: The human body can be pretty gross and this is the book that really demonstrated that. Find out about dead skin cells, funny smells and noises, and all of the gross things that make up the human body. This book makes you see your body in a whole new way!
Critical Evaluation: This book manages to be educational and appealing to our tween age group at the same time. There are lots of color photos, cartoons, and random disgusting facts that will keep the reader entertained for hours.
Reader's Annotation: Curious about toe cheese? Like to read about farts? Find out about these fun facts and a million others.
Genre: Non-fiction
Curriculum ties: Science
Booktalking Ideas: Do you even know how gross you are? Would you like to find out?
Interest Level: 9-12
Challenge Issues: None.
If any, can be recommended they research other books on the human body.
Selection Process: Saw in library display and I wanted to have a "body book" in the assignment.
People in the Past: Ancient Greek Children
Richard Tames. Reed Educational and Professional Publishing, 2003. ISBN: 978-1403401311
Plot Summary: This is a non fiction work covering the children of ancient Greece. The book contains 21 chapters covering topics such as : slavery, toys and games, babies, growing up, and how do we know?
Critical Evaluation: This book would be a good resource for students studying the time period. While some of the pages are a little dense with text, for the most part the language is clear and has an appropriate vocabulary level for the tween age group. There are also a great deal of illustrations and photographs of artifacts that provide visual interest.
Reader's Annotation: An non-fiction work about the children and their daily lives in ancient Greece.
About the Author: Richard Tames is the author of a large number of non-fiction works both for youth and adults. Richard Tames has a Master's Degree in politics form Birkbeck College, London and was a founder member of the Politics Association.
Genre: Nonfiction, History
Curriculum Ties: History, Social Studies
Booktalking Ideas: What was life like in the ancient world? Were the lives of children different than your life today?
Challenge Issues: None.
If any arise, they can be directed to research the author or the time period discussed in his book.
Interest Level: 9-13
Selection Process: I have an interest in the subject area and wanted to see a version of non fiction for this age group.
Plot Summary: This is a non fiction work covering the children of ancient Greece. The book contains 21 chapters covering topics such as : slavery, toys and games, babies, growing up, and how do we know?
Critical Evaluation: This book would be a good resource for students studying the time period. While some of the pages are a little dense with text, for the most part the language is clear and has an appropriate vocabulary level for the tween age group. There are also a great deal of illustrations and photographs of artifacts that provide visual interest.
Reader's Annotation: An non-fiction work about the children and their daily lives in ancient Greece.
About the Author: Richard Tames is the author of a large number of non-fiction works both for youth and adults. Richard Tames has a Master's Degree in politics form Birkbeck College, London and was a founder member of the Politics Association.
Genre: Nonfiction, History
Curriculum Ties: History, Social Studies
Booktalking Ideas: What was life like in the ancient world? Were the lives of children different than your life today?
Challenge Issues: None.
If any arise, they can be directed to research the author or the time period discussed in his book.
Interest Level: 9-13
Selection Process: I have an interest in the subject area and wanted to see a version of non fiction for this age group.
The Middle Ages
Sarah McNeill. Oxford University Press, 1998. ISBN: 0-19-521394-7
Plot Summary: This is a nonfiction work containing information on the Middle Ages. It is part of the Spotlight Series which publishes books on different time periods and topics for use by students. Topics covered in the book include: war, castles, learning, trade, homes and families and many others.
Critical Evaluation: Students would likely utilize this book when doing research for a history project. The book contains a great deal of color illustration and photographs. There is a great deal of information but is is laid out in a way that makes it easy to access.Along with the table of contents, there is also an index in the back of the book. Overall, it would be a good resource for information on the Middle Ages.
Reader's Annotation: A non fiction book containing facts and information about the Middle Ages.
About the Author: Sarah McNeill has published other works of non-fiction on subjects such as the ancient Romans, and the people of ancient Egypt.
Genre: Non-Fiction
Curriculum Ties: History, Social Studies
Challenge Issues: None.
If any, can be directed to research Spotlight series or the time period written about in the book.
Interest Level: 9-12 years old
Selection Process: Wanted to cover some non-fiction and this work seemed age appropriate.
Plot Summary: This is a nonfiction work containing information on the Middle Ages. It is part of the Spotlight Series which publishes books on different time periods and topics for use by students. Topics covered in the book include: war, castles, learning, trade, homes and families and many others.
Critical Evaluation: Students would likely utilize this book when doing research for a history project. The book contains a great deal of color illustration and photographs. There is a great deal of information but is is laid out in a way that makes it easy to access.Along with the table of contents, there is also an index in the back of the book. Overall, it would be a good resource for information on the Middle Ages.
Reader's Annotation: A non fiction book containing facts and information about the Middle Ages.
About the Author: Sarah McNeill has published other works of non-fiction on subjects such as the ancient Romans, and the people of ancient Egypt.
Genre: Non-Fiction
Curriculum Ties: History, Social Studies
Challenge Issues: None.
If any, can be directed to research Spotlight series or the time period written about in the book.
Interest Level: 9-12 years old
Selection Process: Wanted to cover some non-fiction and this work seemed age appropriate.
Horseradish: Bitter Truths You Can't Avoid
Lemony Snicket. Harper Collins, 2007. ISBN-10: 0061240060
Plot Summary: There is no story to this book but it is described as containing "a bouquet of alarming but inescapable truths from the work of Lemony Snicket." Each page contains a quote from a book or from "unpublished papers or remarks he made at dinner.The book is divided into 13 chapters, each with a different focus. Chapters include: Home, Family, School, and A Life of Mystery.
Critical Evaluation: This book contains a mix of "wisdoms". Some are very age appropriate for the intended age group and some are likely a little too dry and will go over many heads. Overall, the book is amusing and is a good one to pick up and read for a few minutes and then put back down. Fans of the Series of Unfortunate Events will likely enjoy his dry style.
Reader's Annotation: This book contains pearls of Wisdom of Lemony Snicket. The Cover reads "Life is a turbulent journey fraught with confusion, heartbreak, and inconvenience. This book will not help."
About the Author: Lemony Snicket is also the author of the Series of Unfortunate Event Series.
Genre: Humor/Anecdotal
Curriculum Ties: N/A
Booktalking Ideas: How do you look at life?
Challenge Issues: None.
If any, they could be advised to research author or read reviews of other works by Lemony Snicket.
Interest Level: 9-12 years old
Selection Process: This Book was featured in a library display.
Plot Summary: There is no story to this book but it is described as containing "a bouquet of alarming but inescapable truths from the work of Lemony Snicket." Each page contains a quote from a book or from "unpublished papers or remarks he made at dinner.The book is divided into 13 chapters, each with a different focus. Chapters include: Home, Family, School, and A Life of Mystery.
Critical Evaluation: This book contains a mix of "wisdoms". Some are very age appropriate for the intended age group and some are likely a little too dry and will go over many heads. Overall, the book is amusing and is a good one to pick up and read for a few minutes and then put back down. Fans of the Series of Unfortunate Events will likely enjoy his dry style.
Reader's Annotation: This book contains pearls of Wisdom of Lemony Snicket. The Cover reads "Life is a turbulent journey fraught with confusion, heartbreak, and inconvenience. This book will not help."
About the Author: Lemony Snicket is also the author of the Series of Unfortunate Event Series.
Genre: Humor/Anecdotal
Curriculum Ties: N/A
Booktalking Ideas: How do you look at life?
Challenge Issues: None.
If any, they could be advised to research author or read reviews of other works by Lemony Snicket.
Interest Level: 9-12 years old
Selection Process: This Book was featured in a library display.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Theodosia and the Serpents of Chaos
R.L. LaFevers. Houghton Mifflin, 2007. ISBN: 978-0618999767.
Plot Summary: Theodosia is self assured young girl who spends her days in the Museum of Legends and Antiquities in London. Her father works at the museum and is a very busy man. With her mother constantly away on digs in Egypt, Theo is usually left to her own devices in the museum. This is a good thing because she is very busy removing curses from the various artifacts her mother brings back from her adventures. The her mother brings the Heart of Egypt to the museum which sets off a chain of events that will throw the whole family, and England into chaos unless Theo can come to the rescue.
Critical Evaluation: This is a very well written book which draws on many elements to keep the reader interested. There are elements of magic, Indiana Jones type adventure and plenty of spying. The book also throws in a lot of Egyptian history and legend which may appeal to some readers.
Reader's Annotation: Theo is kept very busy in the Museum of Legends and Antiquities. Even though she is only 11, she has very important work to do removing curses from artifacts. Her talents are needed even more once her mother brings home the Heart of Egypt and mysterious men begin sneaking around the museum.
Booktalking Ideas: Focus on Theo's abilities to see curses, and her relationship with her parents.
Genre: Adventure
Curriculum Ties: History
Challenge Issues: None. IF any you can recommend reading reviews of the book and researching the author.
Interest Level: Grade 4 and up
Selection Process: A friend with an interest in Egyptian History recommended it.
Plot Summary: Theodosia is self assured young girl who spends her days in the Museum of Legends and Antiquities in London. Her father works at the museum and is a very busy man. With her mother constantly away on digs in Egypt, Theo is usually left to her own devices in the museum. This is a good thing because she is very busy removing curses from the various artifacts her mother brings back from her adventures. The her mother brings the Heart of Egypt to the museum which sets off a chain of events that will throw the whole family, and England into chaos unless Theo can come to the rescue.
Critical Evaluation: This is a very well written book which draws on many elements to keep the reader interested. There are elements of magic, Indiana Jones type adventure and plenty of spying. The book also throws in a lot of Egyptian history and legend which may appeal to some readers.
Reader's Annotation: Theo is kept very busy in the Museum of Legends and Antiquities. Even though she is only 11, she has very important work to do removing curses from artifacts. Her talents are needed even more once her mother brings home the Heart of Egypt and mysterious men begin sneaking around the museum.
Booktalking Ideas: Focus on Theo's abilities to see curses, and her relationship with her parents.
Genre: Adventure
Curriculum Ties: History
Challenge Issues: None. IF any you can recommend reading reviews of the book and researching the author.
Interest Level: Grade 4 and up
Selection Process: A friend with an interest in Egyptian History recommended it.
The Ultimate Coke or Pepsi? Amazingly Awesome questions 2 ask your friends!
Fine Print Publishing. 2006 ISBN: 978-1892951380
Plot Summary: How well do you know your friends? This book, designed for girls in grade 4 and up, is designed to get people knowing each other better by giving hundreds of questions to ask your friends about what they think.
Critical Evaluation: This would be a good book for a birthday party or a gist for a tween girl. It has interesting and eye catching graphics and the questions are very age appropriate and non touch on any controversial subjects.
Reader's Annotation: N/A
About the Author: N/A
Genre: Nonfiction/Game
Curriculum Ties: Could be used as an icebreaker for many activities
Challenge Issues: None. If any, could be referred to puclisher's website or look up reviews of the book 0n amazon.com.
Interest Level: Grade 4 and up
Selection Process: Recommended in local paper as a good x-mas gift for tween girls.
Plot Summary: How well do you know your friends? This book, designed for girls in grade 4 and up, is designed to get people knowing each other better by giving hundreds of questions to ask your friends about what they think.
Critical Evaluation: This would be a good book for a birthday party or a gist for a tween girl. It has interesting and eye catching graphics and the questions are very age appropriate and non touch on any controversial subjects.
Reader's Annotation: N/A
About the Author: N/A
Genre: Nonfiction/Game
Curriculum Ties: Could be used as an icebreaker for many activities
Challenge Issues: None. If any, could be referred to puclisher's website or look up reviews of the book 0n amazon.com.
Interest Level: Grade 4 and up
Selection Process: Recommended in local paper as a good x-mas gift for tween girls.
The Encyclopedia of Immaturity, Volume 2
Klutz, 2009. ISBN: 978-1591746898
Plot Summary: This book contains everything anyone needs to know about being immature! Pranks, jokes, and childish "skills are all included in this book. Want to learn how to slide down a banister? Hypnotize a dog? Burp your name? Then this book is for you!
Critical Evaluation: This is the type of book that adults love to give to children as a gift. Tweens will undoubtedly enjoy flipping through it from time to time for a laugh but it is not really the type of book one sits down to read and enjoy.
Readers Annotation: Want to learn immature tricks? Want to horrify your parents and disgust your grandparents? Then this is the book for you!
About the Author: N/A
Genre: Humor/Toy Book
Curriculum Ties: None
Challenge Issues: None. If any present, they can be told to research the Klutz compnay or read reviews of book on Amazon.com.
Interest Level: Ages 8-13
Selection Process: Borrowed from a friend's son who recommended it.
Plot Summary: This book contains everything anyone needs to know about being immature! Pranks, jokes, and childish "skills are all included in this book. Want to learn how to slide down a banister? Hypnotize a dog? Burp your name? Then this book is for you!
Critical Evaluation: This is the type of book that adults love to give to children as a gift. Tweens will undoubtedly enjoy flipping through it from time to time for a laugh but it is not really the type of book one sits down to read and enjoy.
Readers Annotation: Want to learn immature tricks? Want to horrify your parents and disgust your grandparents? Then this is the book for you!
About the Author: N/A
Genre: Humor/Toy Book
Curriculum Ties: None
Challenge Issues: None. If any present, they can be told to research the Klutz compnay or read reviews of book on Amazon.com.
Interest Level: Ages 8-13
Selection Process: Borrowed from a friend's son who recommended it.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Discovery Girl
Discovery Girl. ASIN: B0000633EA.
Plot Summary: Discovery Girl is a magazine geared for girls between the ages of 7-12.Topics covered include; relationships, school, problem solving, embarrassing moments, beauty and fashion.
Critical Evaluation: The magazine seems to be appropriate for the age group and contains a good range of articles for a variety of interests. This magazine reads like a Cosmo or similar for young girls.
Reader's Annotation:N/A
Author Info: N/A
Genre: Current Events, Non fiction
Curriculum Ties: Current Events - Social Studies
Booktalking Ideas: N/A
Interest Level: 7-12
Selection Process: I wanted an example of a magazine for the tween age range.
Challenge Issues: None
Plot Summary: Discovery Girl is a magazine geared for girls between the ages of 7-12.Topics covered include; relationships, school, problem solving, embarrassing moments, beauty and fashion.
Critical Evaluation: The magazine seems to be appropriate for the age group and contains a good range of articles for a variety of interests. This magazine reads like a Cosmo or similar for young girls.
Reader's Annotation:N/A
Author Info: N/A
Genre: Current Events, Non fiction
Curriculum Ties: Current Events - Social Studies
Booktalking Ideas: N/A
Interest Level: 7-12
Selection Process: I wanted an example of a magazine for the tween age range.
Challenge Issues: None
The Witches
Roald Dahl. Illustrated by Quintin Blake. Puffin Books, 2007. ISBN:978-0142410110
Plot Summary: A young boy who has lost his parents goes to live with his grandmother in Norway. As the two become better acquainted, she begins to tell him all about witches. Many people are not aware, but witches live in many communities and blend in except for a few telltale signs. The boy's grandmother tells him all about how to spot these evil women and the terrible things they do to children. The two decide to take a seaside holiday and end up in the middle of an annual witch convention attended by the grand high witch herself. How will the boy stay safe in a hotel full of children hating witches?
Critical Evaluation: This is an excellent choice for this age group. It is also a good choice for reading aloud, perhaps in a library or classroom setting. The book is original and is amusing, and a little bit scary at the same time. The book is written in a way that it will be equally enjoyable for children and parents alike.
Reader's Annotation: A young orphan, together with his grandmother, must try to outwit a hotel full of child hating witches. The grand high witch is in the hotel - is anyone safe?
Genre: Fantasy, suspense
Interest Level:7-13
Curriculum Ties: None
Booktalking Ideas: Focus on relationship between the boy and his grandmother, focus on how to identify witches.
Selection Process: Roald Dahl is one of my favorite authors form both children's and adult literature.
Challenge: If any, readers can be directed to research the author or reviews of this and his other works.
Plot Summary: A young boy who has lost his parents goes to live with his grandmother in Norway. As the two become better acquainted, she begins to tell him all about witches. Many people are not aware, but witches live in many communities and blend in except for a few telltale signs. The boy's grandmother tells him all about how to spot these evil women and the terrible things they do to children. The two decide to take a seaside holiday and end up in the middle of an annual witch convention attended by the grand high witch herself. How will the boy stay safe in a hotel full of children hating witches?
Critical Evaluation: This is an excellent choice for this age group. It is also a good choice for reading aloud, perhaps in a library or classroom setting. The book is original and is amusing, and a little bit scary at the same time. The book is written in a way that it will be equally enjoyable for children and parents alike.
Reader's Annotation: A young orphan, together with his grandmother, must try to outwit a hotel full of child hating witches. The grand high witch is in the hotel - is anyone safe?
Genre: Fantasy, suspense
Interest Level:7-13
About the Author: Roald Dahl is the author of a great number of children's books including: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, The Great Glass Elevator, The Enormous Crocodile and many others. He has also written books for adults such as My Uncle Oswald and many books of short stories. He is known for darkly humorous stories.
Curriculum Ties: None
Booktalking Ideas: Focus on relationship between the boy and his grandmother, focus on how to identify witches.
Selection Process: Roald Dahl is one of my favorite authors form both children's and adult literature.
Challenge: If any, readers can be directed to research the author or reviews of this and his other works.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Jonas Brothers
Jonas Brothers. Hollywood Records, 2007.
Summary: This the the second album released by the Jonas Brothers. Many of the songs are written by them and the album contains many successful singles such as "Hold On" and "SOS".
Critical Evaluation: The CD is filled with catchy songs that will appeal to all ages. While some of the songs sound very "produces" there are also many that feature acoustic guitar and have an earthier sound to them. Overall, it is upbeat music that will appeal to tweens and is appropriate in content for that age group, but parents will not mind having it playing in the car.
About the Group: The Jonas Brothers are a group that is extremely popular with teens and tweens. They have a huge and enthusiastic fan base and their wholesome lyrics and youth friendly sound make them an approved choice by parents as well.
Curriculum Ties: Music
Booktalking Ideas: N/A
Selection Process: I chose this album to review because they are such a popular band with the tween age group.
Challenge Issues: None
Summary: This the the second album released by the Jonas Brothers. Many of the songs are written by them and the album contains many successful singles such as "Hold On" and "SOS".
Critical Evaluation: The CD is filled with catchy songs that will appeal to all ages. While some of the songs sound very "produces" there are also many that feature acoustic guitar and have an earthier sound to them. Overall, it is upbeat music that will appeal to tweens and is appropriate in content for that age group, but parents will not mind having it playing in the car.
About the Group: The Jonas Brothers are a group that is extremely popular with teens and tweens. They have a huge and enthusiastic fan base and their wholesome lyrics and youth friendly sound make them an approved choice by parents as well.
Curriculum Ties: Music
Booktalking Ideas: N/A
Selection Process: I chose this album to review because they are such a popular band with the tween age group.
Challenge Issues: None
Online Games for Girls
http://girlonlinegame.com/arcade/
Summary: This website is geared to tween girls and contains a variety of games such as;
Dress the Emo, Dress up Mario, Cutie Makeover 3, and Beach Girl Fashion.
Critical Evaluation: This website contains a vast variety of games geared towards tween girls. The majority of theme involve some sort of dress up or makeover theme. None of the games have much educational value but they are easy to play and the content is appropriate for the age group.
About the Author: N/A
Booktalking Ideas: N/A
Genre: Game
Curriculum Ties: None
Interest Level: 8-14
Challenge: None
Summary: This website is geared to tween girls and contains a variety of games such as;
Dress the Emo, Dress up Mario, Cutie Makeover 3, and Beach Girl Fashion.
Critical Evaluation: This website contains a vast variety of games geared towards tween girls. The majority of theme involve some sort of dress up or makeover theme. None of the games have much educational value but they are easy to play and the content is appropriate for the age group.
About the Author: N/A
Booktalking Ideas: N/A
Genre: Game
Curriculum Ties: None
Interest Level: 8-14
Challenge: None
Monday, September 28, 2009
Mean Girls
Written by Tina Fey. Directed by Mark Waters. Paramount Studios.2004
Plot Summary: Cady has spent most of her life being homeschooled in Africa by her Zoologist parents. Constantly living on Safari, she is adept at surviving among wild animals. This comes in handy when she starts attending an American high school. She becomes friends with two students who while they may not be the coolest, have a good sense of self and are smart, funny and self aware. The three become fascinated with "the plastics" a girl only clique that rules the school. They decide that Cady should infiltrate the clique to learn all their secrets. The only problem is that Cady gets caught up with being popular. She begins to enjoy other looking up to her for being pretty and popular rather than smart and accomplished.
Critical Evaluation: Mean Girls received a great deal of critical acclaim, and for good reason. The story sends a valuable message to young girls while avoiding being overly preachy. The movie is touching and funny and brings back memories of how painful it can be to be an adolescent.
Reader's Annotation: Cady is new to school. She has been living in Africa with her zoologist parents. She has to learn the hard way that fitting in is more complicated than it looks.
About the Author: The book is based on a non-fiction work by Rosalind Wiseman, Queen Bees and Wannabes.
Genre: Comedy, Drama
Curriculum Ties: None
Booktalking Ideas: Have you ever had to lie to fit in? How did it make you feel?
Interest Level: Age 12 and up
Selection Process: I have seen it several times and believe it has a positive message for tween and teen girls.
Challenge Issues: None
Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone
J.K. Rowling. Bloomsbury, 1997. ISBN: 978-0747532743.
Plot Summary: Harry is a boy who lives with his horrible Aunt, Uncle, and his cousin Dudley. One day, just before his 11th birthday, Harry learns some exciting news, he is a wizard! He discovers that he has been accepted to Hogwarts, a wizarding school. Once he arrives there he encounters a new world. He learns that he is a celebrity! He also learns magic, meets new friends (including ghosts!), and begins to learn about the truth of what happened to his mother and father. Harry also learns that there is a dark force in the wizarding world that he needs to be careful of.
Critical Evaluation: This a book that appeals to a wide range of ages and personalities. Not only is there something in The Philosopher's Stone, but it invokes a wide range of emotions from the reader.
Reader's Annotation: Harry lives a rather unhappy life with his Aunt, Uncle and cousin Dudley. One day his whole world changes when he discovers that he is a wizard and there is a place waiting for him at Hogwarts, a school for wizards.
About the Author: J.K. Rowling is the British author of the popular Harry Potter series. There are 7 novels in the the series and all have been made into movies or will be in the near future.
Genre: Fantasy, Coming of Age
Curriculum Ties: None
Booktalking Ideas: Have you ever had one day that changed your whole life?
Reading Level: Grade 4 and up
Selection Process: This book is a part of one of the most popular children's series in history so I thought it should be included.
Challenge Issues: When the book first came out, several groups were unhappy with the magical content and did not approve of witches being the main characters of children's literature. To defend the book, challengers could look at other books with similar content that are well known classics. The Narnia series by CS Lewis is a good example of this.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
George's Marvelous Medicine
Roald Dahl. Narrated by Richard E. Grant. Harper Collins Audio, 2005. ISBN: 978-0060758325
Plot Summary: George is a nice, polite boy who lives with his family and his grouchy, impossible to please, grandmother. One day while he is responsible for his gramma, he decides to add a bit of something extra into her medicine. The results are quite surprising to say the least! When George shows his father the results of his little experiment, his father is eager for him to recreate the potion so they can profit from the benefits. Because George threw everything but the kitchen sink into the medicine and cannot remember the quantities, he and his father begin experimenting with wild results!
Critical Evaluation: Like all of Roald Dahl's work, this story will be enjoyed by parents and children alike thanks to it's darkly humorous content. This story is well narrated and really is brought to life by being read aloud. Richard E. Grant does an excellent job of imparting the unique personalities of each character into his voice and intonations.
Reader's Annotation: George is a smart little boy who lives with his family and his terrible, grumpy grandmother. One day, he decides to make her medicine "special" to cure her grumpiness.
About the Author: Roald Dahl is the author of a great number of children's books including: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, The Great Glass Elevator, The Enormous Crocodile and many others. He has also written books for adults such as My Uncle Oswald and many books of short stories. He is known for darkly humorous stories.
Plot Summary: George is a nice, polite boy who lives with his family and his grouchy, impossible to please, grandmother. One day while he is responsible for his gramma, he decides to add a bit of something extra into her medicine. The results are quite surprising to say the least! When George shows his father the results of his little experiment, his father is eager for him to recreate the potion so they can profit from the benefits. Because George threw everything but the kitchen sink into the medicine and cannot remember the quantities, he and his father begin experimenting with wild results!
Critical Evaluation: Like all of Roald Dahl's work, this story will be enjoyed by parents and children alike thanks to it's darkly humorous content. This story is well narrated and really is brought to life by being read aloud. Richard E. Grant does an excellent job of imparting the unique personalities of each character into his voice and intonations.
Reader's Annotation: George is a smart little boy who lives with his family and his terrible, grumpy grandmother. One day, he decides to make her medicine "special" to cure her grumpiness.
About the Author: Roald Dahl is the author of a great number of children's books including: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, The Great Glass Elevator, The Enormous Crocodile and many others. He has also written books for adults such as My Uncle Oswald and many books of short stories. He is known for darkly humorous stories.
Genre: Humour
Booktalking Ideas: What would happen if you could make a magic potion? What would you want it to do?
Focus on relationship between George and his Grandmother
Focus on relationship between George and his Grandmother
Challenge Issues: None. If any, they could be advised to look up reviews of the book.
Interest Level: Ages 9 and up
Selection Process: I have read most of Roald Dahl's work and this one is a favorite.
The Call of the Wild (Graphic Novel)
Jack London. Illustrated by Alex Nine. Adapted by Neil Kleid. Puffin Graphics, 2006. . ISBN:978-0142405710.
Plot Summary: Buck, a pet dog, is taken from his home and made a part of a sled team. He suffers abuse as he is passed from owner to owner and forced to work in the harsh conditions. He eventually becomes the leader of a pack of wolves. Along the way he learns many lessons realizes that he is capable of much more than he thought. Through Buck's adventures, London tells a gripping story of what man and humanity is capable of - both the good and the bad and the harsh realities that are a part of life.
Critical Evaluation: The artwork in The Call of the Wild really adds another dimension to the story. The thin lines of the pen and ink sketches contrast against the use of a great deal of white space adding to the wintry and cold feel of the book. The story itself is a good adaptation of the original by Jack London. There does not seems to be any important items missing from the story line and the general feel and emotions raised by the story are comparable.
Reader's Annotation: A gentle house pet named Buck, is stolen from his family and forces to be a sled dog in the wild north. He has a number of experiences as he adjusts to the harsh life. Will he ever return home or is he changed forever?
Author Information: Jack London is also the author of White Fang. He is well known for his harsh portrayals of the Alaskan gold rush and life in the north.
Genre: Graphic Novel
Curriculum Ties: English Literature, Art
Booktalking Ideas: Could you survive in the wild? How would you have to change?
Interest Level: Grade 7-9
Challenge Issues: Some may resent a classic novel being changed and abridged into a graphic format. To defend, research could be done into the graphic novel as a legitimate form of art and literature.
Selection Process: I had never read a graphic novel before and wanted to start with a familiar story.
Plot Summary: Buck, a pet dog, is taken from his home and made a part of a sled team. He suffers abuse as he is passed from owner to owner and forced to work in the harsh conditions. He eventually becomes the leader of a pack of wolves. Along the way he learns many lessons realizes that he is capable of much more than he thought. Through Buck's adventures, London tells a gripping story of what man and humanity is capable of - both the good and the bad and the harsh realities that are a part of life.
Critical Evaluation: The artwork in The Call of the Wild really adds another dimension to the story. The thin lines of the pen and ink sketches contrast against the use of a great deal of white space adding to the wintry and cold feel of the book. The story itself is a good adaptation of the original by Jack London. There does not seems to be any important items missing from the story line and the general feel and emotions raised by the story are comparable.
Reader's Annotation: A gentle house pet named Buck, is stolen from his family and forces to be a sled dog in the wild north. He has a number of experiences as he adjusts to the harsh life. Will he ever return home or is he changed forever?
Author Information: Jack London is also the author of White Fang. He is well known for his harsh portrayals of the Alaskan gold rush and life in the north.
Genre: Graphic Novel
Curriculum Ties: English Literature, Art
Booktalking Ideas: Could you survive in the wild? How would you have to change?
Interest Level: Grade 7-9
Challenge Issues: Some may resent a classic novel being changed and abridged into a graphic format. To defend, research could be done into the graphic novel as a legitimate form of art and literature.
Selection Process: I had never read a graphic novel before and wanted to start with a familiar story.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Which Witch?
Eva Ibbotson. Scholastic Press, 1979. ISBN: 978-0330398008.
Plot Summary: Arriman the Awful has spent most of his life being a powerful, "evilish" wizard and he is ready for a break. However, he can't retire until he finds someone to take his place. He is advised the best way to do this is to marry on of the local witches and produce an heir. He is hesitant to do this as to his knowledge, all the local witches are warty and unkempt but he decides to marry the woman who produces the darkest magic spell. Belladonna, a beautiful white witch is deeply in love with Arriman but despairs at ever winning the contest as she is a white witch and only capable of making flowers bloom and caring for baby animals. She decides to enter the contest anyways with the help of a young orphan boy and her new familiar, a small worm. With the contest under way, who will win the hand of Arriman?
Critical Evaluation: Which Witch is an amusing, light read and will be particularly popular for those readers who enjoy magic and wizardry. Although the subject matter may seem dark with evil wizards and witches as the main characters, it is actually a light read that will appeal to a wide audience. The book is imaginative and original while maintaining a fairytale like structure.
Reader's Annotation: Arriman the handsome wizard must choose a bride, although he dreads marrying one of the local hags. He arranges a contest: the witch that performs the darkest spell will become his wife. Arriman doesn't realize that one of the witches is very beautiful and already loves him but is unfortunately, incapable of performing dark spells. Will love or dark magic prevail?
About the Author: Eva Ibbotson is the author of The Secret of Platform 13, The Beasts of Clawsone Castle and others. She writes mainly fantasy and historical fiction for tweens and young adults.
Genre: Fantasy
Curriculum Ties: None
Booktalking Ideas: Is it better to be good and powerless or evil and powerful?
Challenge Issues: Necromancy is performed. This could be defended by examining the context it is performed in.
Interest Level: 9-12
Selection Process: On the cover it is described as " a zestful adventure, perfect for fans of Harry Potter." This appealed to me as I am a big fan of the Harry Potter series.
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