Saturday, May 15, 2010
The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy
Title- The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy
Author- Douglas Adams
ISBN -1400052920
Publication Information- Harmony, 2005 (25th anniversary edition)
Plot Summary- Our story begins with a frustrated Arthur Dent lying in front of his house to keep it from being bulldozed to make way for a new freeway bypass. His friend Ford Prefect urgently tells him that he is from another planet and they must leave immediately because the Earth is about to be destroyed by the Vogons, an alien race, in order to construct hyperspace bypass. They leave just before the world explodes and find themselves on one of the Vogon ships. However, they are discovered and forced off the ship being miraculously saved from instant death by the Heart of Gold, a ship stolen by Zaphod Beeblebrox. Over the course of a most improbable adventure, Arthur discovers that the Earth was actually a super computer designed to find the question that would give meaning to the answer the Ultimate Question of Life, the Universe, and Everything, but was destroyed minutes before its computations were complete. The beings in charge of the computer/earth wanted to dissect Arthur's brain for remnants to the computer of which he was part. Arthur, of course, takes exception to this idea.
Critical Evaluation- This incredibly bizarre tale has been a cult classic among teenagers since its initial BBC radio series in the late 1970s. The novel is equally popular even today. It is part of a "trilogy in five parts." The novel itself drops off suddenly as they characters decide to travel to the restaurant at the end of the universe, which is aptly the title of the second book. The characters are unique and the whole series is a fun alternative to the Star Wars and Star Trek worlds that take themselves so seriously. Arthur is constantly trying to figure out what is going on as he is drug around by Ford. Ford is the keeper of the guide itself. The secondary characters are a riot, particularly Marvin the depressed robot who is constantly discussing suicide but still saves the main characters. Personally, I prefer my science fiction to be a little more serious, but if one is looking for a light read unlike anything they have ever seen, then this is the ideal book to pick up.
Reader's Annotation- Looking for the Answer to the Ultimate Question of Life, the Universe, and Everything? Look no further than The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy.
Author Information- Douglas Adams led a tragically short life. He died of a heart attack at the age of 49. He was not a prolific writer by any means. He told his editor that he loved the sound of a deadline as it rushed by his head. At one point, he was locked in a hotel for three weeks in order to finish a book. Nevertheless, he completed various forms of HG2tG, radio script, novel, comic book, and screenplay, the other four installments of the story, and a separate set of novels called the Dirk Gently series. He was a staunch atheist, animal activist, and technology geek of the highest order.
Curricular Ties- none
Genre- Science Fiction
Book talking ideas- How is Adams use of animals important in this novel? How helpful is the guide to any of the characters?
Challenge issues- religious objections
- Re-read the text to familiarize myself with the story
- Ask parents for their specific objections (they are required to file that with our school district)
- Review approved books list from California Department of Education for similar materials
- Review approaches from ALA
Interest Age- 15-adult
Why I selected this piece- I chose this because it is still a book I have to buy every year for my shelf. It walks off every year after several students have read it and loved it.
Of Mice and Men
Title- Of Mice and Men
Author- John Steinbeck
ISBN -0140177396
Publication Information- Penguin, 1983 (my version)
Plot Summary- This is the classic story of George and Lennie. Lennie is mildly retarded and gets the pair in trouble in every place they stop to work in the Depression era California farms. He is particularly enamored of things that are soft to the touch, a dress, a puppy, a dead mouse; it does not matter, but once he is touching it, he does not want to let go. George is his cousin and caretaker. While life would be easier for him without Lennie, he secretly treasures having a real friend in a world where most people have no one. After fleeing their last job because of Lennie, the pair find themselves at a new farm. George makes new friends but keeps a watchful eye out for Lennie. Unfortunately Lennie and the farm owner's son Curly do not get along. Lennie ends up crushing Curly's hand and making a permanent enemy. Later Curly's wife finds Lennie petting yet another dead animal and ends up being killed by him accidently. Curly sets out on the hunt.
Critical Evaluation- This is one of my favorite Steinbeck novels (is there a bad one?). Students like this novel because of the overwhelming theme of friendship. Friends in this novel are treasured and cared for in good times and in bad. Furthermore, Steinbeck's ability to describe the Central Valley is so clear that many of my students have good ideas of where these scenes could take place. Students can usually identify with at least one of the characters in the novel; they even feel great sympathy for Lennie. The tragic death of Candy's dog foreshadowing the ending of the novel touches readers nearly all the time. The secondary concern of racism, which in this novel is still tied closely to friendship, is still a timely theme to discuss and students are often drawn to Crooks as a rejected person. All in all, this is a profound story that stays with readers for years to come.
Reader's Annotation- In the Great Depression the most important thing to have is a real friend- that and the ability to dream.
Author Information- John Steinbeck is one of the giants of American literature and winner of the Nobel Prize for Literature. He grew up in the Salinas area where this novel is set and knew the countryside and farming community intimately. He also worked frequently with non-fiction. He followed a family during the Great Depression across Route 66 and into California. This trip became the basis for Grapes of Wrath later. He wrote The Moon is Down during World War II, which helped to bolster the Norwegian resistance movement and worked as a news correspondent during both this war and the Vietnam War in which his two sons served. His books are amongst the most studied and banned by schools throughout the nation today.
Curricular Ties- English, Social Studies
Genre- Historical Fiction
Book talking ideas- Would you have taken the same actions as George at the end of the story? How does Steinbeck use animals to reflect the behavior of the characters?
Challenge issues- Racism and language
- Re-read the text to familiarize myself with the story
- Ask parents for their specific objections (they are required to file that with our school district)
- Review approved books list from California Department of Education for similar materials
- Review approaches from ALA
Interest Age- 15-18
Why I selected this piece-. I love this piece, and it is the most cited novel by our seniors in the books I enjoyed survey at the end of the year.
Hatchet
Title- Hatchet
Author- Gary Paulsen
ISBN -1416925082
Publication Information- Simon and Schuster, 2007 (20th anniversary edition)
Plot Summary- Brian Robeson is on a small plane going to visit his father when the pilot has a heart attack and Brian must crash land the plane in a lake. He survives, but the plane sinks and all Brian is left with is a hatchet and his clothing. He is forced to use the hatchet to survive a grueling 54 days in Canadian wilderness with only his wits. He manages to create a fire and learns that he must eat whatever he can find and hope to stave off anything that thinks he might make a good meal. He eventually is able to create an arrow, and some traps and is able to catch and eat meat. However, nature is fickly and he is attacked by a moose and a freak tornado nearly back to back. He loses everything he had created but realizes that he can see a bit of the plane that the tornado somehow lifted out of the water. This is his chance for help before winter sets in.
Critical Evaluation- I've often wondered if all the survivor type reality shows are based on this novel. Sadly for television, the novel is far more entertaining and strangely informative then any of those shows. Brian has no skills, no knowledge, no experience and he manages to survive. Clearly the novel is unbelievable in many respects but is still an amazing and fun read. Brian grows physically, emotionally, and spiritually in his journey. It is the classic example of man versus nature. For boys this is often a big hit. There are no relationship issues except his own problems with his parents' divorce, no other characters to contend with; there is only Brian and his hatchet. Paulsen returns to this story with Brian's Return and Brian's Winter.
Reader's Annotation- Could you survive in the Canadian wilderness with nothing but your clothing, a windbreaker coat, and a hatchet? 13 year old Brian Robeson must, but how long can he hold out?
Author Information- Gary Paulsen is the author of more than 200 novels and 200 magazine articles. As a consummate outdoorsman himself, he tends to write coming of age novels that are set in extreme outdoor conditions. He is particularly knowledgeable about Canadian and Alaskan wilderness conditions having run the Iditarod four times and he still trains dogs for the race. His sense of adventure was sparked when he ran away at the age of 14 and joined a carnival (had to double check this to make sure it is real!!). His website is a cornucopia of interesting Boy Scout information.
Curricular Ties- physical education, boy scouting
Genre- Adventure, Outdoor
Book talking ideas- What, besides the hatchet, is Brian's key to survival? How much of his survival is his skill or luck?
Challenge issues- descriptions of violence and trauma
- Re-read the text to familiarize myself with the story
- Ask parents for their specific objections (they are required to file that with our school district)
- Review approved books list from California Department of Education for similar materials
- Review approaches from ALA
Interest Age- 13-18
Why I selected this piece-. I'm always on the lookout for books reluctant boys will read. While the reading level is lower than most of my students, it's still a safe bet for students who don't like to read.
The Giver
Title- The Giver
Author- Lois Lowry
ISBN -0385732554
Publication Information- Delacourte, 2006
Plot Summary- Jonas lives in the perfect world. He has two loving parents and a sister. He and his friends are rapidly approaching the Ceremony of Twelve, where each child is assigned the job they will do for the rest of their lives. In order to help the Elders decide which job is best, the children cycle through a series of places to see where they fit best. At the ceremony, Jonas is given the position of Receiver of Memory, a rare and dangerous job. Only one person in the community is allowed to hold it, the Giver, and Jonas quickly understands why. All the memories associated with emotion are telepathically given to him- sadness, happiness, love, beauty, adventure, etc. Jonas is also able to see color for the first time. As he continues, he realizes that the community he lives in is devoid of all of these feelings- controlled to avoid them because they cause problems. People's lives are strictly controlled from their birth to death. When a baby, Gabe, is brought to his home for a short time because he cannot sleep peacefully with the other children, Jonas realizes that he must leave. Jonas knows that Gabe is to be "released" or euthanized soon and cannot stand to see that happen. The Giver also agrees that he should go.
Critical Evaluation- This is a wonderful and touching novel. Lowry sets up a world that seems pleasant enough until a little detail is revealed here and there. It is not until Jonas is with the Giver that the reader discovers the full nature of this society. There are scenes of great beauty and great horror almost back to back. The characters are all caring individuals who do their best in the world. No one is overtly cruel, but the nature of the society is emotionless at the same time and therein lays the horror. The Giver is a traditional benevolent guide figure and Jonas. The story, however, feels so alien in many respects that it is hard to take in completely on a single read. Thematically, the value of freedom and choice become clear as one reads. None of the characters except the Giver are allowed this ability and even he is clearly resentful of the society in which he lives. Choice, as Jonas discovers, is worth risking everything, including your life.
Reader's Annotation- Wouldn't it be nice to live in a perfect world? A world with no pain or suffering? How about no freedom?
Author Information- Lowry did not publish her first book until the age of 40, but has still managed to write over 30 novels since then. Many of her books deal with similar themes, the intertwining nature of humanity- how we all affect each other daily. As such, her novels have earned her high acclaims and severe criticism and censorship. Because she married young to a military man, she was unable to finish her degree until late in life after all their moving had settled down. Her story is inspiring to anyone who has a dream deferred.
Curricular Ties- English
Genre- Science Fiction, Dystopian
Book talking ideas- Does Jonas survive? Is a society with no suffering worth abdicating your freedom?
Challenge issues- violence, sex- though not explicit but still very intense
- Re-read the text to familiarize myself with the story
- Ask parents for their specific objections (they are required to file that with our school district)
- Review approved books list from California Department of Education for similar materials
- Review approaches from ALA
Interest Age- 13-18
Why I selected this piece-.I have taught this with freshmen who find it very appealing. Many of my seniors cite this as one of their favorite reads in high school.
The Book Thief
Title- The Book Thief
Author- Marcus Zusak
ISBN -0375842209
Publication Information- Alfred Knopf, 2007
Plot Summary- We start this tale as death tells us about the book thief and his meetings with her throughout her lifetime. The first of these is the tragic death of her little brother. Death does not like to pay attention to the living because they are too heartbreaking. Instead he focuses on the brilliance of the colors around him, but Liesel Meminger calls his attention and he is riveted by her. Liesel's father is taken from them in Austria because he is a Communist, though Liesel does not understand why, and her mother disappears too, but not before leaving her with a foster family who agrees to take her at great risk to themselves. Liesel finds a new family with her foul-mouthed "mother" and kind father. Her habit of stealing books is interesting because she is unable to read them until her foster father teaches her to read in the middle of the night. Liesel becomes friends with Rudy who is obsessed with the German Olympics and Jesse Owens performance there. As the story progresses, the Nazi influence becomes stronger and more dangerous for everyone in the neighborhood.
Critical Evaluation- The book is marketed in the US as a young adult novel, but was sold in Australia, its country of origin, as an adult novel. The book is riveting for any audience. This book is brilliant, if for no other reason than the point of view of the story. It is told by Death, who is clearly irritated that he is fascinated by the life of this young book thief. The characters are intriguing and very realistic. As a teacher of the holocaust, this book is inspiring for the courage of an average family to take in multiple people that the Nazi party is hunting. Thus, the moral of the story- to do what is right even at great peril to one's self, is communicated too. There are several motifs and symbols that weave their way through the story. All in all, it is among the best novels I have ever read on the Holocaust.
Awards
2006 - Commonwealth Writers Prize for Best Book (South East Asia & South Pacific)
2006 - Horn Book Fanfare
2006 - Kirkus Reviews Editor Choice Award
2006 - School Library Journal Best Book of the Year
2006 - Daniel Elliott Peace Award 2006 - Publishers Weekly Best Children's Book of the Year
2006 - Booklist Children's Editors' Choice
2006 - Bulletin Blue Ribbon Book
2007 - Boeke Prize
2007 - ALA Best Books for Young Adults
2007 - Michael L. Printz Honor Book
2007 - Book Sense Book of the Year
2009 - Pacific Northwest Young Readers Choice Master List
Reader's Annotation- Each person finds different ways to survive the impossible. For Liesel it was stealing books during her time with her foster family in World War II.
Author Information- Part of this story is biographical from his grandmother's experiences in a small German town. She witnessed the other side of Nazism, the side that objected and hid families to save them. He knew he wanted to tell that story. At the age of 32, Markus Zusak has penned several novels and established himself as a gifted writer. The novel was intended to be a small book, 100 pages or so, but after three years of working, became much longer and clearly much better.
Curricular Ties- History, English
Genre- Historical fiction
Book talking ideas- What is the effect of Death as the story-teller/narrator? How are colors important in the story?
Challenge issues- Violence, language
- Re-read the text to familiarize myself with the story
- Ask parents for their specific objections (they are required to file that with our school district)
- Review approved books list from California Department of Education for similar materials
- Review approaches from ALA
Interest Age- 15-18
Why I selected this piece-.I teach the holocaust to students every year, and I'm always on the lookout for good novels in this vein. This is one of the very best of the books I've seen.
Friday, May 14, 2010
Suspicion
Title- Suspicion
Author- Kate Brian
ISBN -1416958851
Publication Information- Simon and Schuster, 2009
Plot Summary- Reed and her wealthy friends go to St. Barths for winter vacation. All the girls "dream guy", Upton falls for Reed. However, a series of attempts on her life begin to plague her (again). Her horse tries to throw her, her jet ski explodes. She gets pushed off a boat and kidnapped for six days. She eventually discovers that Mrs. Ryan is behind the whole debacle and finds herself attacked once again.
Critical Evaluation- This is the tenth book in the Private series. Having not read the others, I was a bit lost, but the book does move very quickly. It starts with her stranded in the water and moves quickly from there. The character is either an incredible survivor or the most unlucky human being ever to exist. She is constantly under attack. The additional great selling option of these novels is her use of the cliff-hanger, not only from chapter to chapter, but also from book to book. This book picks up precisely where the previous left off and sets itself to continue in the next novel. For girls, these novels deal strongly with issues of jealously, and loyalty amongst girls, especially friends in groups where loyalty is often challenged and moves with the secrets of their lives.
Reader's Annotation- Reed has Upton fawning over her at every turn, but someone is set on making sure she is out of the picture- for good.
Author Information- Kate Brian is a pen name for Kieran Scott (which I think is a much nicer name). She has published several series of books all of which fall under the chick-lit category of young adult literature. Her life reads as if it could have come from one of her series. She grew up as a singer, cheerleader, and actress in New Jersey.
Curricular Ties- none
Genre- mystery, romance
Book talking ideas- What predictions can you make about Billings House? Why is Reed always the center of attention with the boys in the series?
Challenge issues- Violence
- Re-read the text to familiarize myself with the story
- Ask parents for their specific objections (they are required to file that with our school district)
- Review approved books list from California Department of Education for similar materials
- Review approaches from ALA
Interest Age- 15-18
Why I selected this piece-. Several of my teenage girls swear by it. This is one of the books that was donated to my class library. The school library cannot keep them in stock so I couldn't read the first one.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
The Last Song
Title- The Last Song
Author- Nicholas Sparks
ISBN -0446570966
Publication Information- Grand Central Publishing
Plot Summary- Rebellious 17 year old Ronnie and her brother Jonah are sent to their father's house in North Carolina for the summer. She is unhappy to be there because she blames him for her parent's divorce. There she meets Will and Galadriel. Ronnie and will spend more time together and fall in love. She discovers that her father has cancer. She is forced to come to terms with her feelings for him and his unconditional love for her. She withdraws from her friends and from Will as her father's illness progresses. After his death she returns home to her mother and attends Julliard. Surprisingly, Will calls her to tell her that he has transferred from Vanderbilt to Columbia in order to be closer to her.
Critical Evaluation- Nicholas Sparks novels are incredibly popular with the girls at my school. His stories are often tear-jerkers, but they also delve into various relationships and what love means at various levels and various times. What is noticeable is the character development of Ronnie. She starts as a rebellious and unseeing brat and develops into a kind, caring human being. However, the plotline of the story is contrived and somewhat unbelievable from the nature of divorced parents to the general reality of teenagers. It also seems highly unlikely that a young man would give up Vanderbilt for a girl he has only known for a few months, but that is what makes this novel such a hit with the girls.
Reader's Annotation- Veronica "Ronnie" Miller is a very angry young lady, but her emotions will be put to the test by her father and the love of her life.
Author Information- Nicholas Sparks has written 16 novels to date. He was discovered when his novel, The Notebook, was selected out of the slush pile by an agent. His life has been touched by more than his fair share of tragedy with the untimely death of his mother, a sister with cancer, an autistic diagnosis in his child (which turned out to be inaccurate), and the early death of his father. That he maintains a positive attitude and continues to help other people by providing scholarships to students is simply amazing.
Curricular Ties- none
Genre- Romance, Coming of Age
Book talking ideas- How does Ronnie grow throughout the story? How realistic is the ending?
Challenge issues- none
- Re-read the text to familiarize myself with the story
- Ask parents for their specific objections (they are required to file that with our school district)
- Review approved books list from California Department of Education for similar materials
- Review approaches from ALA
Interest Age- 15-18
Why I selected this piece-.I chose this because lots of my girls live for these novels. Frankly, I can't stand them, but they are popular to say the very least.
Parrotfish
Title Parrotfish
Author Ellen Wittlinger
ISBN9787416916222
Publication Information – Simon and Schuster, 2007
Plot Summary- Angela has never felt right as a girl. As a junior in high school Angela realizes that she is really a boy, and changes her name to Grady. The decision to live as a transgendered person throws her family, her friends, and her school into chaos. Her mother and sister are mortified; her best friend refuses to acknowledge her in public; and the school has suddenly become a place of bullying and fear instead of a safe-haven. Grady, however, does not back down. His decision leads him to find new friends who accept him for who he is. Sebastian is the ostracized school nerd who does not seem to care about this transformation. In fact, he finds it fascinating. But as the bullying gets worse and his best friend continues to reject him, Grady questions whether the choice to be honest with his friends and family is the right one.
Critical Evaluation- What makes this novel fascinating is clearly the subject matter. Teenagers who are sexually experimenting or confused rarely find much help in the form of novels written for them. This is one of a growing genre that does. That said, the novel itself is rather simplistically written. It is scored by Renaissance Learning as a 4th grade level read, and even my sophomores finished it in a night or two. The characters seem somewhat oversimplified in order to allow the central conflict to take center stage. The lines are clearly drawn and the resolution is a little too convenient. That said, this is still an important book that can help many students deal with issues in their lives. It acknowledges that sexuality is not as cut and dried as most people believe it is.
Finalist, Lambda Literary Awards, 2008
NYPL Books for the Teen Age list, 2008
Nominated: ALA Stonewall Awards, 2008
Advocate Top Picks for Trans YA Fiction
ALA Rainbow List, 2008
Nominated: Cybils, 2007
Reader's Annotation- Angela was clearly meant to be a boy. So when she changes her appearance and name to match how she feels, everyone around her is affected.
Author Information- Wittlinger writes in a variety of genres, drama, poetry, and prose. Although as a former librarian herself, she has a special love for young adult literature.
Curricular Ties- Health
Genre- GLBT literature, realistic
Book talking ideas- Is gender easily defined? Does Grady handle his situation wisely?
Challenge issues- I would be surprised if this book WEREN'T challenged in my school. Issues of concern would be transgender, gay, and lesbian discussions.
- Re-read the text to familiarize myself with the story
- Ask parents for their specific objections (they are required to file that with our school district)
- Review approved books list from California Department of Education for similar materials
- Review approaches from ALA
Interest Age- 14-18
Why I selected this piece – Assigned for class
American Born Chinese
Title- American Born Chinese
Author- Gene Luen Yang
ISBN-1596421520
Publication Information- First Second, 2006
Plot Summary- This story covers two tales that eventually converge. The main story is Jin's attempts to assimilate in a nearly all white school; interlaced throughout is the story of the Monkey King. The Monkey King desires to be more than he is because he is denied entrance to a party of the gods. As he learns more and more, he changes both physically and spiritually until he is nearly human physically, but rude and arrogant. He tries to usurp the gods themselves. He is trapped for 500 years under a pile of rocks to learn patience and when he is finally allowed to escape, it is only by transforming back to his natural form and letting go of his power. Jin is starting at a new school where he has no friends. As time goes by, he eventually meets Wei- Chen and they quickly become friends. Both find they are interested in girls and attempt to make different relationships work, but when Jin kisses Wei-Chen's girlfriend, their friendship is ruined. That night Jin dreams of becoming someone different and wakes up as Danny, a white boy. Every year, Danny's life is ruined by the arrival of his cousin who forces him to consider who is really is and what he really wants.
Critical Evaluation- Although initially confusing, this graphic novels comes together nicely at the end with a good moral for all of us- be who we are born to be and life will be easier. Jim's life is doubled in the parable of the monkey king and the two stories come together at the end and we realize the monkey king is a real entity. What is best about this book is that also addresses issues of stereotyping, of relationships, and family obligations. It packs a heavy punch in a small amount of space. The artwork of the novel is simple but emphasized the issues of assimilation and stereotyping quite well. This was the first graphic novel nominated for a National Book Award and to win the Michael L. Printz award.
Reader's Annotation- When Jin is forced to start at a new school with no other Chinese students, he is scared and out of place. Wei-Chen arrives and his life changes in ways he could never imagine.
Author Information- Yang is a teacher at a Roman Catholic school in San Francisco and has written and published several comics in the last few years. He began writing them when he was in elementary school. The book does have some autobiographical elements. Yang was forced to befriend a recent immigrant who spoke little English. The experience forced him to confront issues of social identity early in life.
Curricular Ties- none
Genre- graphic novel, coming of age
Book talking ideas- How does race affect our identity? What is the message of these two stories?
Challenge issues- Racism, crude humor.
- Re-read the text to familiarize myself with the story
- Ask parents for their specific objections (they are required to file that with our school district)
- Review approved books list from California Department of Education for similar materials
- Review approaches from ALA
Interest Age-13-16
Why I selected this piece- Librarian recommended
Frankenstein
Title- Frankenstein (Graphic Novel)
Author- Michael Burgan – based on Mary Shelley
ISBN- 1598898302
Publication Information- Stone Arch Classic Fiction, 2008
Plot Summary- This is the graphic novel version of the novel is fairly true to the original story, but much shorter. Young Victor is enamored of the natural world and drawn to science. After the untimely death of his mother, he seeks out a way to stop death itself. Although he unable to find that, he does discover a way to reanimate a dead body. However, once he accomplishes that, he realizes that he's made a terrible mistake and drives the creature away. The creature find that he is rejected by humanity time and again and resolves that Frankenstein will make him a mate or he will die too. Victor refuses and the monster starts to destroy all that Victor holds dear. The story culminates aboard a ship where Victor tells his story to Walton.
Critical Evaluation- For many students the original text is unapproachable. The language and syntax is complex and drives many interested readers away. The graphic novel format gives students a much simpler version to contend with. The story is true to the novel, but cuts out or abbreviates characters and scenes. Nevertheless, the important elements, character and theme, are present. Readers still get all the good information from the story that makes them literate in the story and meaning behind references to the Frankenstein myth. While I still recommend that strong readers attack the original, I would highly recommend it to reluctant readers or students interested in the classics but afraid of the initial challenge.
Reader's Annotation- Just because you can do something does not mean you should. Victor Frankenstein discovers the horrors of this truism in the classic story of a scientist gone mad.
Author Information- Burgan wanted to be a teacher but realized that it wasn't a good idea and turned to writing. He has written dozens of books, mostly non-fiction social studies books for reluctant readers. His novels are usually geared to boys who are not interested in the traditional novels. These books include accounts of popular figures like The Rock and a series of historical accounts of wars and countries.
Curricular Ties- English
Genre- Graphic Novel, Science fiction
Book talking ideas- Who is the real monster of the story? What obligations do we have to our creations?
Challenge issues- unlikely given the classic nature of the story, but perhaps some religious objections.
- Re-read the text to familiarize myself with the story
- Ask parents for their specific objections (they are required to file that with our school district)
- Review approved books list from California Department of Education for similar materials
- Review approaches from ALA
Interest Age- 13-18- depending on reading level
Why I selected this piece- I teach Frankenstein with my advanced students and have used similar versions with general students but without the pictures. I love the story and students are always interested in it.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Boomsday
Title- Boomsday
Author- Christopher Buckley
ISBN -0446579815
Publication Information- Twelve, 2007
Plot Summary- Cassandra was accepted to Yale but was forced to join the army when her father lost all her college money in a dotcom start-up. While in the army she is responsible for the injury of Randolf Jepperson, a US Congressman and is dishonestly discharged. However, said Congressman offers her a job which eventually leads her to being a Washington spin doctor by day and a blogger by night. After a particularly frustrating vote on Social Security, Cassandra rails that her generation should rebel against the government and stop paying taxes so they no longer have to support the Baby Boomer generation. When that gets her in trouble with the FBI, she advocates that all people should commit state sponsored suicide by age seventy-five. The idea becomes popular and Jepperson uses it as the centerpiece to a run for President.
Critical Evaluation- This book a fun ride about an issue that will become a serious problem in short order. Buckley has clearly studied Jonathan Swift's Modest Proposal and has played with the concept here, making a serious criticism by proposing an absurd option. He is also makes insightful criticism of the inner-workings of the Washington political machine. Cassandra is developed to reflect the frustrations with the youth of today's society. Her father, a boomer, does the unthinkable in the name of selfishness and ruins her life. Her motivation as the novel progresses makes perfect sense. The secondary characters are equally entertaining. Mostly notably, Congressman Jepperson, who is a boomer himself, but who takes up the cause as a ploy to get elected, is simultaneously fun and indicative of the problems of Washington today. The novel elements combined, characters, plot, and theme, all make it a worthwhile read.
Reader's Annotation- The Baby Boomer generation is nothing but a long term drain on the youth of the country. Perhaps, just perhaps, they should kill themselves and save us all money.
Author Information- As the son of William Buckley, Christopher Buckley was bound to be a political satirist. He has published several novels of the genre. He has also written for virtually every major U.S. news magazine in the business right now, including The New York Times, The Washington Post, U.S. News and World Report, and The New Yorker.
Curricular Ties- Sociology, English
Genre- Political fiction, Realistic
Book talking ideas- Are Cassandra's motivations really politically motivated? Or are they entirely borne from frustration with her father? How does her proposal compare to Swift's Modest Proposal?
Challenge issues- Political issues, some sexual content, language
- Re-read the text to familiarize myself with the story
- Ask parents for their specific objections (they are required to file that with our school district)
- Review approved books list from California Department of Education for similar materials
- Review approaches from ALA
Interest Age- 15-adult
Why I selected this piece-.My librarian and best teacher friends were having a laugh out loud conversation about his book, so I had to pick it up.
Pride of Baghdad
Title- Pride of Baghdad
Author- Brian K. Vaughan
ISBN -1401203140
Publication Information- Vertigo, 2006
Plot Summary- Pride is the story of the lions that escaped the Baghdad zoo during the war. In this case the story is told from the point of the pride, two females, one male, and one cub. The eldest of the three, a female Safa remembers life before the zoo as harsh and unforgiving where she was raped by male lions and scarred by them for fighting. The youngest female has virtually no memory and wants her freedom from the 'keepers' or humans. As they debate the issue, the zoo is destroyed by American bombs and they find themselves freed whether they want it or not. They begin to wander but are driven into the cities by a string of tanks. Once inside the town, they see the devastation firsthand. They become increasingly hungry. After a terrible battle with a bear used for animal fights, the pride stumbles across American soldiers.
Critical Evaluation- This anthropomorphic tale of the effects of war on these animals is both a good tale of the true story of the lions that escaped and were eventually killed by American soldiers as an act of mercy and a critique of the nature of war on those who are innocent. The pride's instincts have been dulled by their captivity for all those years, and they are surrounded by forces they cannot explain. They are surrounded by death and destruction and try to make sense of it. The characters all have interesting character backgrounds: Safa, who knows the dangers of the wild and likes the safety of the zoo; Noor ,who vaguely remembers freedom but never understood the difficulties; Zill, who never had to do anything hard and remembers only the beautiful sunsets and the cub, who is completely innocent. The last page is perhaps the most poignant noting that "there were other casualties as well." Overall, it tells the reality of war from a very different perspective.
Reader's Annotation- During the invasion of Baghdad, a group of lions escaped the zoo. This is their story.
Author Information- Brian Vaughan is a varied and talented writer. He began his career as a main line comic book writer with stories like Batman and X-Men, but has also written some of the most famous independent style comics including Y: the Last Man and Ex-Machina. Interestingly, he was also a screenwriter for the television series Lost for three years.
Curricular Ties- History
Genre- Graphic Novel, War
Book talking ideas- How do the lions symbolize people in Baghdad? How do Noor and Safa's conflict reflect the nature of soldiers?
Challenge issues- Graphic violence, rape
- Re-read the text to familiarize myself with the story
- Ask parents for their specific objections (they are required to file that with our school district)
- Review approved books list from California Department of Education for similar materials
- Review approaches from ALA
Interest Age- 15-18
Why I selected this piece- Library recommendation
Deogratias: A Tale of Rwanda
Title- Deogratias: A Tale of Rwanda
Author- Jean Stassen
ISBN-1596421032
Publication Information-First Second, 2006
Plot Summary- This is the story of a young Hutu who loses his mind as the Rwanda genocide destroys the people he cares about and he is forced to comply with his countrymen and also kill people. Deogratias, which means "thanks be to God" is a teenager who has feelings for two Tutsi sisters and a developing drinking problem. As the story moves back and forth in time from before the genocide, during, and after, we see the deterioration of this boys mind as the dogs destroy him. Over the course of the story, he attempts to save the girls and other Tutsis but instead witnesses their brutal rape and murder. He poisons several people that he believes are responsible for the genocide and eventually is arrested.
Critical Evaluation- The brilliance of this novel comes at the expense of your heart. Nothing about the genocide is spared in the text. The language is vulgar but accurate, and the violence is horrific. As a person who remembers the film footage of the genocide, it is a fair artistic representation of history. They great symbol of the story is the protagonist's degeneration into a dog. He knows that what he and others did was horrifically wrong and the dogs that feast on corpses during the genocide symbolically feast on his sanity. Graphically, he becomes the dog as the story progresses. This is not a novel for the faint of heart. For students not familiar with the genocide, there is a very well-written introduction by the translator that summarizes the history behind the conflict.
Reader's Annotation- The story of one boy's descent into hell as his country destroys itself.
Author Information- There is very little about the author available. He was born and raised in Belgium and currently lives in Rwanda. His books have been translated into many languages and he does his own artwork for the story.
Curricular Ties- History
Genre- Graphic novel, war
Book talking ideas- When does a person choose to take a stand against injustice? How does the author use the metaphor of the dog to describe Deogratias's state of mind?
Challenge issues- language, very violent depictions of war and rape. Honestly, were it not that this is based on a real genocide, I'm not sure I could defend it.
- Re-read the text to familiarize myself with the story
- Ask parents for their specific objections (they are required to file that with our school district)
- Review approved books list from California Department of Education for similar materials
- Review approaches from ALA
Interest Age- 15-adult
Why I selected this piece- Librarian recommendation, and I teach a unit on Night that culminates in a research paper on another genocide.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Blankets
Title- Blankets
Author- Craig Thompson
ISBN -1891830430
Publication Information- Top Shelf Productions
Plot Summary- The story takes place of several years, perhaps a decade or more in which we follow the life of Craig. Craig and his brother live in a fundamentalist Christian household with a father that is borderline abusive. Craig has no friends at school to support him and finds solace in only two things, art and religion. However, in high school at a Christian camp, he meets Raina, a reject herself. The two experience love for the first time. Eventually, she leaves him and he finds himself lost in the world again, not knowing where he should go to college or what he should focus on while there. As he continues to read his Bible, he notices contradictions and problems that he cannot reconcile and finds that religion holds no focus for him any longer either.
Critical Evaluation- This is one of those brilliant graphic novels that make the entire genre worthwhile. It will easily take its place amonst others like Maus and Sandman as the year's progress. This is a semi-autobiographical look at Thompson's early life. It is a coming of age story at its core. The art of the novel beautifully reflects the state of mind of the character and perhaps the author at that point in his life. All of it is tied together by the motif of a blanket. At the beginning it is the blanket he shares with his little brother in bed and later the blanket Raina makes for him that with which he cannot bear to part. Most importantly though, is the thematic issues of the story. How does one manage to navigate the minefield of adolescence and not come out crippled as an adult in some way? Clearly we do not. We carry those emotional issues with us long into adulthood. Thompson is perhaps able to exorcise his demons in the process of writing this novel.
Awards
- 2004 Harvey Awards: Best Artist, Best Graphic Album of Original Work and Best Cartoonist
- 2004 Eisner Awards: Best Graphic Album and Best Writer/Artist
- 2004 Ignatz Awards: Outstanding Artist and Outstanding Graphic Novel or Collection
- 2005 Prix de la critique
Reader's Annotation- What happens to a teenager who can't connect with family or friends?
Author Information- The novel is largely autobiographical so his life is fairly clear upon reading it. After these years, he began working for Darkhorse Comics, a major comic book publisher, but turned to his own work after tendonitis forced him to retire. All of his graphic novels have won several critical awards. He uses very French stylized art instead of the traditional graphics of the comic book industry.
Curricular Ties- Religious studies, English
Genre- Graphic novel, Coming of Age
Book talking ideas- What problems does Craig find in his religion as the years progress? How do blankets play a central role in the story?
Challenge issues- Religious fundamentalists will object to this book based on the portrayal of churches and church functions; sexual content; violent images
- Re-read the text to familiarize myself with the story
- Ask parents for their specific objections (they are required to file that with our school district)
- Review approved books list from California Department of Education for similar materials
- Review approaches from ALA
Interest Age- 15-18
Why I selected this piece- This was recommended to me by my school librarian as an excellent graphic novel that did not involve heroes or fantasy.
Hatter M: The Looking Glass Wars
Title- Hatter M: The Looking Glass Wars Vol. 1
Author- Frank Beddor
ISBN - 97809818737
Publication Information- Automatic Pictures Publishing, 2008
Plot Summary- This is a graphic novel story that is peripheral to The Looking Glass Wars novel by the same author. In that text Alyss, the daughter of the Queen of Hearts escapes being assassinated by her Aunt Redd by fleeing into 1850s London. There she is taken in by a family and tells her story to Lewis Carroll, who gets it all wrong. All the while her guardian, Hatter Madigan is searching for her. In this graphic novel, the focus is entirely on Hatter's search for her throughout the streets of London. Hatter has a unique hat that, in the right hands, transforms into a series of blades that can attack or defend as necessary. He is relentless in his search for Alyss because it was the Queens final request that he protect her. In the opening volume, the readers are introduced to the characters, the back story (in case you have not read the novel) and his first adventure to find her. He follows the faint trace of imagination, the critical component of Wonderland, which the princess will exude. He follows the trace of a young girl who has been kidnapped.
Critical Evaluation- Graphic novels are interesting reads. This novel is a spin-off of another series that is, of course, a spin-off of the Alice in Wonderland stories. However, Beddor makes the story much darker in the graphic novels. Reading the source novels would be very helpful although the flashbacks in the text make it not completely necessary. Hatter is a fascinating character that is very different from his Alice in Wonderland counterpart. Alyss, however, is similar to her opposite. Readers should be aware that this story is very violent and the artwork can be disturbing in places. The Looking Glass Wars is listed for pre-teens, but this is graphic enough to make it a better choice for older students. The art, by Ben Templesmith is excellent though if the violence is not an issue for you. Fans of the novel will not find any new material here, but it is a nice addition.
Reader's Annotation- What if Lewis Carroll was wrong? What if Alice came OUT of Wonderland instead of going in?
Author Information- Frank Beddor is a truly interesting man. He has produces films including There's Something About Mary and Wicked and is the CEO of his own film production company, which is the same group that published the graphic novel. He has created a full line of merchandise to go with the original novel series, including the graphic novel, a card game, and a role-playing game.
Curricular Ties- English
Genre- Graphic Novel
Book talking ideas- Is Hatter a good guy or a bad guy? How does the graphic novel compare to the novel? To Alice in Wonderland?
Challenge issues- Violent content, including a torture scene of sorts, fantasy content.
- Re-read the text to familiarize myself with the story
- Ask parents for their specific objections (they are required to file that with our school district)
- Review approved books list from California Department of Education for similar materials
- Review approaches from ALA
Interest Age- 12-17
Why I selected this piece- The story was recommended to me by one of my sophomores after the class talked about Alice in Wonderland.
Monday, May 10, 2010
Twilight
Title - Twilight
Author- Stephanie Meyers
ISBN 0316160172
Publication Information- Little Brown
Plot Summary- Bella Swan has decided to give her mother the space she needed to be with her latest boyfriend by moving in with her father in Oregon. Bella feels out of place as the new girl in a very small town, and everyone seems to be nice to her except her science partner, Edward Cullen. Edward seems revolted by her for no apparent reason and disappears for several days. However, upon his return, he becomes oddly kind. One winter day as she is walking to her car, Edward saves her from a freak accident by stopping a car from hitting her. At that moment, Bella realizes that something is very different about Edward and she refuses to accept any of the answers he gives her. The more she gets to know him, the more she realizes that he is not normal. After being nearly attacked by strangers after getting lost in another town, she figures out that Edward and his family are vampires and that he is intensely attracted to her. They become inseparable until another group of vampires finds the Cullen family and wants to hunt Bella. The Cullen family attempts to hide Bella but James are able to draw her out anyway. After the fight, Bella wakes up in the hospital with Edward telling her that they should not be together. Nevertheless, Edward takes Bella to the prom.
Critical Evaluation- The first of the widely popular Twilight series was an immediate hit with teenage girls. Edward quickly became the heartthrob of girls everywhere. Bella is the everygirl figure. She does not think she is particularly attractive but all the boys are interested in her. She draws the attention of the most unattainable and perfect boy in the school. Furthermore, vampire stories are traditionally a reflection of society of that creates the story. Recently, vampires have left the realm of monsters to be feared and have instead become immortal beauties to be envied. Edward and his family no longer kill human beings; like humans, they kill animals. Edward's family all attempt to live as humans by having jobs or going to school. They very action of being a "family" is antithetical to the traditional vampire story. All in all, while this is not the best vampire story out there, it has rekindled the genre in a major way.
Reader's Annotation- What would you do if the most beautiful man in the school was infatuated with you? What if he wanted to drink your blood?
Author Information- Stephanie Meyers is the new Hollywood star of the young adult writing world. She has published the entire Twilight series and a new novel, Host. Her website has the beginnings of the Twilight novel told from Edward's perspective instead of Bella's. For Meyers it started simply as a writing exercise but became incredibly popular with her readers. She plans to publish this novel eventually too- the first of an author to my knowledge.
Curricular Ties- none unless in comparison to Dracula
Genre- Vampire, Romance
Book talking ideas- Is Edward selfish by allowing himself to know Bella? Should Bella listen to Edward and return to her mother?
Challenge issues- Vampire stories are often objected because of the "demonic" nature of the protagonist.
- Re-read the text to familiarize myself with the story
- Ask parents for their specific objections (they are required to file that with our school district)
- Review approved books list from California Department of Education for similar materials
- Review approaches from ALA
Interest Age- 14- adult (I know a LOT of adults who have enjoyed this novel)
Why I selected this piece- I love vampire novels from Dracula to Interview with a Vampire so this series was an easy sell for me.
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