1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Rosoff, Meg. HOW I LIVE NOW. New York: Wendy Lamb Books. ISBN 0385746776
2. PLOT SUMMARY
This is a fascinating novel about 15 year old Daisy who goes to live with her cousins in England simply to get away from all of her troubles and woes (mainly anorexia and a stepmother that she doesn’t care for). She quickly finds herself completely absorbed with her new family, especially her cousin Edmond. Her new found happy times do not last long, as her new loved ones are all too soon torn away from her by the perils of war. Daisy goes through a ton of changes both emotionally and physically all in the name of survival.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Daisy, a 15 year old Manhattanite who goes to live with her cousins in England, gives the reader a very private insight into her world as she sees it. The reader witnessed her struggles and triumphs as she grew up throughout the novel. Daisy lived through parental rejection, self centeredness, forbidden love, deprivation, loyalty, devotion, and the harsh realities and consequences of war. At first, things couldn’t be better with life with the cousins, but soon their little paradise came crashing down around them as war set in and life as they knew it was severely altered and they were all separated. Daisy found herself taking on a parental role and taking care of Piper, her younger cousin.
Phrases such as “Mum” and “And then I looked so far into her eyes that I could practically see out the back of her head” give the reader a sense of the unique culture and setting of the story. Rosoff puts her own style into the story of a 15 year old by her lack of punctuation and ramblings which can often indicate how confusing the teen years can be.
4. REVIEW EXCERPTS
BOOKLIST starred review: “More central to the potency of Rosoff's debut, though, is the ominous prognostication of what a third world war might look like, and the opportunity it provides for teens to imagine themselves, like Daisy, exhibiting courage and resilience in roles traditionally occupied by earlier generations.”
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL review: “Though the novel has disturbing elements, Rosoff handles the harshness of war and the taboo of incest with honest introspection.”
PUBLISHER’S WEEKLY starred review: “Like the heroine, readers will emerge from the rubble much shaken, a little wiser and with perhaps a greater sense of humanity.”
MICHAEL PRINTZ AWARD
GUARDIAN CHILDREN’S FICTION AWARD
BRANFORD BOASE AWARD
5. CONNECTIONS
*Students are able to get a sense of what living through a war has on a person emotionally as well as physically. They can keep their own personal journal of their emotions while the book is being and read and discussed.
* Other thought provoking books for young people by Meg Rosoff:
Rosoff, Meg. WHAT I WAS. ISBN 9780670018444
Rosoff, Meg. THE BRIDE’S FAREWELL. ISBN 9780670020997
Friday, April 17, 2009
CONTEMPORARY REALISTIC FICTION AND FANTASY - PRINCESS ACADEMY
1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Hale, Shannon. 2005. PRINCESS ACADEMY. New York, NY: Bloomsbury USA Children’s Books. ISBN 9781599900735
2. PLOT SUMMARY
Mira, a fourteen year old girl, who lives on “her mountain” with her people soon finds herself attending a “princess academy” established by the king for all of the girls in her village. The prince himself would pick his bride from the all too eager hopefuls. Mira soon emerges as the leader on her quest of discovery to find her self-confidence, knowledge, her father’s approval , and a way to help her village.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
The story line of this fantasy novel can be compared to the mountains themselves, full of peaks and valleys. The tale that is weaved is one of self-discovery for Mira. Mira is an unsure 14 year old that finds herself growing up quite quickly and becomes extremely proud of her roots by the end of the story, which is evident when she chooses to stay on the mountain with her people. When the girls at the academy meet Tutor Olana, they are taken back by her rigidness and cruelness. In an attempt to survive Tutor Olana and kidnappers, Mira discovers that she has the power of “quarry speech” and draws from her internal strength to win over Olana and the rest of the girls. The reader is uniquely aware of when Mira is thinking because her thoughts occur in italics. For example, she thinks: “Step one- state the problem : Step Two – admit your own error” and then she talks out loud. Several themes are prevalent in this fantasy novel including families, education, relationships, and home sweet home.
4. REVIEW EXCERPTS
BOOKLIST Review: “Hale nicely interweaves feminist sensibilities in this quest-for-a-prince-charming, historical-fantasy tale.”
HORN BOOK review: “Hale's writing is clear and her descriptions vivid. Her imaginary world, peopled by strong yet vulnerable characters, is quietly memorable.”
KIRKUS starred review: “There are many pleasures to this satisfying tale: a precise lyricism to the language ("The world was as dark as eyes closed" or "Miri's laugh is a tune you love to whistle") and a rhythm to the story that takes its tropes from many places, but its heart from ours.”
*NEWBERRY HONOR BOOK
*ALA NOTABLE CHILDREN’S BOOK
* BOOK SENSE CHILDREN’S PICK
*NECBA TOP 10 FALL BOOK
5. CONNECTIONS
Classroom discussions can be had over finding yourself, family connections, trade & commerce, and being true to your ancestors. Can also spark a discussion about rock quarrying.
*Books about rock quarries
Kehoe, Michael. THE ROCK QUARRY BOOK. ISBN 9780876141427
*Other fiction books about princesses
Lasky, Kathryn. BORN TO RULE. ISBN 006058761X
Gilman, Phoebe. THE GYPSY PRINCESS. ISBN 0590865439
Hale, Shannon. 2005. PRINCESS ACADEMY. New York, NY: Bloomsbury USA Children’s Books. ISBN 9781599900735
2. PLOT SUMMARY
Mira, a fourteen year old girl, who lives on “her mountain” with her people soon finds herself attending a “princess academy” established by the king for all of the girls in her village. The prince himself would pick his bride from the all too eager hopefuls. Mira soon emerges as the leader on her quest of discovery to find her self-confidence, knowledge, her father’s approval , and a way to help her village.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
The story line of this fantasy novel can be compared to the mountains themselves, full of peaks and valleys. The tale that is weaved is one of self-discovery for Mira. Mira is an unsure 14 year old that finds herself growing up quite quickly and becomes extremely proud of her roots by the end of the story, which is evident when she chooses to stay on the mountain with her people. When the girls at the academy meet Tutor Olana, they are taken back by her rigidness and cruelness. In an attempt to survive Tutor Olana and kidnappers, Mira discovers that she has the power of “quarry speech” and draws from her internal strength to win over Olana and the rest of the girls. The reader is uniquely aware of when Mira is thinking because her thoughts occur in italics. For example, she thinks: “Step one- state the problem : Step Two – admit your own error” and then she talks out loud. Several themes are prevalent in this fantasy novel including families, education, relationships, and home sweet home.
4. REVIEW EXCERPTS
BOOKLIST Review: “Hale nicely interweaves feminist sensibilities in this quest-for-a-prince-charming, historical-fantasy tale.”
HORN BOOK review: “Hale's writing is clear and her descriptions vivid. Her imaginary world, peopled by strong yet vulnerable characters, is quietly memorable.”
KIRKUS starred review: “There are many pleasures to this satisfying tale: a precise lyricism to the language ("The world was as dark as eyes closed" or "Miri's laugh is a tune you love to whistle") and a rhythm to the story that takes its tropes from many places, but its heart from ours.”
*NEWBERRY HONOR BOOK
*ALA NOTABLE CHILDREN’S BOOK
* BOOK SENSE CHILDREN’S PICK
*NECBA TOP 10 FALL BOOK
5. CONNECTIONS
Classroom discussions can be had over finding yourself, family connections, trade & commerce, and being true to your ancestors. Can also spark a discussion about rock quarrying.
*Books about rock quarries
Kehoe, Michael. THE ROCK QUARRY BOOK. ISBN 9780876141427
*Other fiction books about princesses
Lasky, Kathryn. BORN TO RULE. ISBN 006058761X
Gilman, Phoebe. THE GYPSY PRINCESS. ISBN 0590865439
CONTEMPORARY REALISTIC FICTION AND FANTASY - ARTEMIS FOWL
1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Colfer, Eoin. 2001. ARTEMIS FOWL. New York, NY: Hyperion Paperbacks for Children. ISBN 0786817070
2. PLOT SUMMARY
Twelve year old Artemis Fowl just happens to be a genius that comes from a long line of master criminals, and through the years they have managed to dwindle the family fortune. Artemis comes up with a brilliant scheme to build back the family wealth. All he has to do catch a fairy, and trick the fairies into giving him all of their gold. He was able to obtain a copy of the fairies “BOOK” that contains all of their secrets, kidnapped a fairy, and put a plan into action. Not everything goes according to his plan, and things soon turned into mayhem.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Artemis, last in his line of family criminal master minds, acts strangely like a grown man who is stuck inside of a 12 year old boy. He was able to artfully and carefully devise a plan to capture a fairy, who just happened to be a LEPrecon (an underground female officer). In an attempt to steal her gold, she proved to be much more than what he bargained for. Throughout his quest to steal the pot of gold, Artemis became intimately aware of fairy magic, magical powers, and a whole new world that he could never have imagined. He encountered magical creatures such as the LEP commander Julius Root, and the dwarf named Mulch Diggums who expertly dug tunnels. Not your typical “Good Always Wins” type of fantasy novel, but definitely entertaining!
4. REVIEW EXCERPTS
BOOKLIST Review: “Characterizations and dialogue enhance a rollicking tale that will have readers rolling on the floor and eagerly anticipating the planned sequel as well as the movie in the works for 2002.”
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL Review: “Fun to read, full of action and humor, this is recommended for all public libraries and to readers of all ages.”
5. CONNECTIONS
Classroom discussions (Venn Diagrams) can be had comparing the lives of “fairies” to the mud people, or their technological advances to the technology of today. Sequels can be read to keep up with the characters. Might be a stretch, but possible could be compared to the Harry Potter stories.
*Sequel Books
Colfer, Eoin. ARTEMIS FOWL: the Arctic Incident. ISBN 9780786248254
Colfer, Eoin. ARTEMIS FOWL: the Eternity Code. ISBN 9780786814930
Colfer, Eoin. 2001. ARTEMIS FOWL. New York, NY: Hyperion Paperbacks for Children. ISBN 0786817070
2. PLOT SUMMARY
Twelve year old Artemis Fowl just happens to be a genius that comes from a long line of master criminals, and through the years they have managed to dwindle the family fortune. Artemis comes up with a brilliant scheme to build back the family wealth. All he has to do catch a fairy, and trick the fairies into giving him all of their gold. He was able to obtain a copy of the fairies “BOOK” that contains all of their secrets, kidnapped a fairy, and put a plan into action. Not everything goes according to his plan, and things soon turned into mayhem.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Artemis, last in his line of family criminal master minds, acts strangely like a grown man who is stuck inside of a 12 year old boy. He was able to artfully and carefully devise a plan to capture a fairy, who just happened to be a LEPrecon (an underground female officer). In an attempt to steal her gold, she proved to be much more than what he bargained for. Throughout his quest to steal the pot of gold, Artemis became intimately aware of fairy magic, magical powers, and a whole new world that he could never have imagined. He encountered magical creatures such as the LEP commander Julius Root, and the dwarf named Mulch Diggums who expertly dug tunnels. Not your typical “Good Always Wins” type of fantasy novel, but definitely entertaining!
4. REVIEW EXCERPTS
BOOKLIST Review: “Characterizations and dialogue enhance a rollicking tale that will have readers rolling on the floor and eagerly anticipating the planned sequel as well as the movie in the works for 2002.”
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL Review: “Fun to read, full of action and humor, this is recommended for all public libraries and to readers of all ages.”
5. CONNECTIONS
Classroom discussions (Venn Diagrams) can be had comparing the lives of “fairies” to the mud people, or their technological advances to the technology of today. Sequels can be read to keep up with the characters. Might be a stretch, but possible could be compared to the Harry Potter stories.
*Sequel Books
Colfer, Eoin. ARTEMIS FOWL: the Arctic Incident. ISBN 9780786248254
Colfer, Eoin. ARTEMIS FOWL: the Eternity Code. ISBN 9780786814930
Monday, March 23, 2009
HISTORICAL FICTION - THE RIVER BETWEEN US
1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Peck, Richard. 2003. THE RIVER BETWEEN US. New York, NY: Dial Books. ISBN 0803727356
2. PLOT SUMMARY
A young boy travels to his grandmother’s house in Grand Tower, Illinois by Model T Ford with his father. His grandmother Tilly spends time retelling the story of how two women of color from New Orleans came to live with her family during the beginning of the Civil war in 1861. He learns how his father was raised by four people, the racism, the war, and all of the struggles of that time period.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Peck opens his novel in 1916, with Howard Leland Hutchings narrating the story. Howard tells of his family trip to his grandmother’s house, and is transported back in time to the Civil War where his grandmother Tilly takes over the storytelling. She tells of women of color coming to town, and folk’s reactions to them as well as to the changes that are taking place because of the war. The reader will receive an authentic portrayal of history through the timelines, details of daily life on the farm, the language being spoken, and the wardrobe of the characters. Phrases such as, “She put some starch in my spine” and “Wrinkled like a walnut” give the reader an idea of the language that was used during that particular era in history. Themes of racism, war, and family are all intertwined throughout the entire novel.
4. REVIEW EXCERPTS
SCOTT O’DELL AWARD
HORN BOOK starred review: “The harsh realities of war are brutally related in a complex, always surprising plot that resonates on multiple levels.”
KIRKUS starred review: “A rich tale full of magic, mystery, and surprise.”
PUBLISHER”S WEEKLY starred review: “Readers will find themselves turning back to the beginning of the novel to uncover how seamlessly he has laid the foundation for the connections between people and across generations.”
5. CONNECTIONS
*Will easily open discussions about the relationships and hardships during the Civil war.
*Other historical fiction books during the civil war:
Reeder, Carolyn. ACROSS THE LINES. ISBN 9780380730735
Stolz, Mary. A BALLAD OF THE CIVIL WAR. ISBN 9780064420884
Peck, Richard. 2003. THE RIVER BETWEEN US. New York, NY: Dial Books. ISBN 0803727356
2. PLOT SUMMARY
A young boy travels to his grandmother’s house in Grand Tower, Illinois by Model T Ford with his father. His grandmother Tilly spends time retelling the story of how two women of color from New Orleans came to live with her family during the beginning of the Civil war in 1861. He learns how his father was raised by four people, the racism, the war, and all of the struggles of that time period.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Peck opens his novel in 1916, with Howard Leland Hutchings narrating the story. Howard tells of his family trip to his grandmother’s house, and is transported back in time to the Civil War where his grandmother Tilly takes over the storytelling. She tells of women of color coming to town, and folk’s reactions to them as well as to the changes that are taking place because of the war. The reader will receive an authentic portrayal of history through the timelines, details of daily life on the farm, the language being spoken, and the wardrobe of the characters. Phrases such as, “She put some starch in my spine” and “Wrinkled like a walnut” give the reader an idea of the language that was used during that particular era in history. Themes of racism, war, and family are all intertwined throughout the entire novel.
4. REVIEW EXCERPTS
SCOTT O’DELL AWARD
HORN BOOK starred review: “The harsh realities of war are brutally related in a complex, always surprising plot that resonates on multiple levels.”
KIRKUS starred review: “A rich tale full of magic, mystery, and surprise.”
PUBLISHER”S WEEKLY starred review: “Readers will find themselves turning back to the beginning of the novel to uncover how seamlessly he has laid the foundation for the connections between people and across generations.”
5. CONNECTIONS
*Will easily open discussions about the relationships and hardships during the Civil war.
*Other historical fiction books during the civil war:
Reeder, Carolyn. ACROSS THE LINES. ISBN 9780380730735
Stolz, Mary. A BALLAD OF THE CIVIL WAR. ISBN 9780064420884
HISTORICAL FICTION - NUMBER THE STARS
1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Lowry, Lois. 1989. NUMBER THE STARS. Boston, Ma: Houghton Mifflin Company. ISBN 0395510600
2. PLOT SUMMARY
A historical fiction book that tells the story of the German resistance in Denmark during the early 1940’s from a ten year old Danish girl’s point of view. Annemarie tells the story of her family’s friendship with a Jewish family, and their bravery of helping them escape in the dark of night to the safety of Sweden.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
NUMBER THE STARS is an easy to read novel that tells of an important event (German resistance in the early 1940’s) that happened in history all through the eyes of a ten year old girl. The reader is able to quickly get into the story, and understand Annemarie and her friends quite well. They are able to feel their childhood innocence (through simple errands)and the way they are being protected from the ugliness of the situation in which they live. Annemarie grows up quickly in the story, and is able to contribute in her own special way. Lowry not only accurately portrays the significant events that happened in history, but she also inserts the bond of family, loyalty, love, and commitments in such a way that even the youngest readers will be moved.
4. REVIEW EXCERPTS
Newbery Medal
ALA Best/Notable List
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL review: “Readers are taken to the very heart of Annemarie’s experience, and through her eyes, come to understand the true meaning of bravery.”
KIRKUS starred review: “A deftly told story that that dramatizes how Danes appointed themselves bodyguards – not only for their king, ….but for their Jews.”
5. CONNECTIONS
· This book would help open up discussions about the German resistance in Denmark, as well as the Jews escaping to Sweden in 1943.
· Other recommended books:
Reuter, Bjarne B. THE BOYS FROM ST. PETRI. ISBN 0525451218
Matas, Carol. LISA’S WAR. ISBN 0684190109
Lowry, Lois. 1989. NUMBER THE STARS. Boston, Ma: Houghton Mifflin Company. ISBN 0395510600
2. PLOT SUMMARY
A historical fiction book that tells the story of the German resistance in Denmark during the early 1940’s from a ten year old Danish girl’s point of view. Annemarie tells the story of her family’s friendship with a Jewish family, and their bravery of helping them escape in the dark of night to the safety of Sweden.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
NUMBER THE STARS is an easy to read novel that tells of an important event (German resistance in the early 1940’s) that happened in history all through the eyes of a ten year old girl. The reader is able to quickly get into the story, and understand Annemarie and her friends quite well. They are able to feel their childhood innocence (through simple errands)and the way they are being protected from the ugliness of the situation in which they live. Annemarie grows up quickly in the story, and is able to contribute in her own special way. Lowry not only accurately portrays the significant events that happened in history, but she also inserts the bond of family, loyalty, love, and commitments in such a way that even the youngest readers will be moved.
4. REVIEW EXCERPTS
Newbery Medal
ALA Best/Notable List
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL review: “Readers are taken to the very heart of Annemarie’s experience, and through her eyes, come to understand the true meaning of bravery.”
KIRKUS starred review: “A deftly told story that that dramatizes how Danes appointed themselves bodyguards – not only for their king, ….but for their Jews.”
5. CONNECTIONS
· This book would help open up discussions about the German resistance in Denmark, as well as the Jews escaping to Sweden in 1943.
· Other recommended books:
Reuter, Bjarne B. THE BOYS FROM ST. PETRI. ISBN 0525451218
Matas, Carol. LISA’S WAR. ISBN 0684190109
HISTORICAL FICTION - THE BALLAD OF LUCY WHIPPLE
1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Cushman, Karen. 1996. THE BALLAD OF LUCY WHIPPLE. New York, NY: Clarion Books. ISBN 0395728061
2. PLOT SUMMARY
This historical fiction novel tells a story that takes place in 1849, about a young girl named California Morning Whipple. She tells the story of how her mother moved her and her siblings from the perfect home in Massachusetts to a wild new land in California. California renamed herself Lucy, meets strange new friends, loses her brother, and longs to go back home to her grandparents. In the end, her family moves on while she chooses to stay and help “tame” the land.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Cushman weaves an irresistible novel told through the eyes of twelve year old Lucy. Lucy tells of the heartaches and struggles of adapting to a “new” land. We see the feminine side through her and her mother of taming the “wild west” in a quick thrown together town that is made up of mostly tents. The language and dialogue used throughout the novel help to develop the characters befitting of an unsettled mining town when they use sayings such as “fitted her like a shoe two sizes too small,” “Fetch us,” and “Lord-a-mercy.” Lucy grows up quite a bit by the end of the story. She goes from a girl who daydreams and writes letters of home, to a young lady who thinks of ways to better her new home with a town library. Cushman’s novel accurately portrays the time, as proven through her research that can be found at the end of the book. A classic coming of age story that will be delightful and intriguing for those who pick it up.
4. REVIEW EXCERPTS
BOOKLIST starred review: “With zest and wit, Cushman gives us the domestic side of the western frontier adventure.”
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “Cushman's heroine is a delightful character, and the historical setting is authentically portrayed.”
HORN BOOK starred review: “Her language energizes and humanizes this story of the women and children who came not to strike it rich but to tame the land for their home.”
5. CONNECTIONS
* This book can easily bridge the gap of student’s interest between the facts and statistics of history and enjoyable literature. Will help bring the Wild West alive.
* Students can create, name, and construct their own “wild west” town.
*Other books about the California Gold Rush:
Dunn, Joeming W. THE CALIFORNIA GOLD RUSH. ISBN 9781602700765
Raum, Elizabeth. THE CALIFORNIA GOLD RUSH: AN INTERACTIVE HISTORY ADVENTURE. ISBN 9781429601603
Cushman, Karen. 1996. THE BALLAD OF LUCY WHIPPLE. New York, NY: Clarion Books. ISBN 0395728061
2. PLOT SUMMARY
This historical fiction novel tells a story that takes place in 1849, about a young girl named California Morning Whipple. She tells the story of how her mother moved her and her siblings from the perfect home in Massachusetts to a wild new land in California. California renamed herself Lucy, meets strange new friends, loses her brother, and longs to go back home to her grandparents. In the end, her family moves on while she chooses to stay and help “tame” the land.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Cushman weaves an irresistible novel told through the eyes of twelve year old Lucy. Lucy tells of the heartaches and struggles of adapting to a “new” land. We see the feminine side through her and her mother of taming the “wild west” in a quick thrown together town that is made up of mostly tents. The language and dialogue used throughout the novel help to develop the characters befitting of an unsettled mining town when they use sayings such as “fitted her like a shoe two sizes too small,” “Fetch us,” and “Lord-a-mercy.” Lucy grows up quite a bit by the end of the story. She goes from a girl who daydreams and writes letters of home, to a young lady who thinks of ways to better her new home with a town library. Cushman’s novel accurately portrays the time, as proven through her research that can be found at the end of the book. A classic coming of age story that will be delightful and intriguing for those who pick it up.
4. REVIEW EXCERPTS
BOOKLIST starred review: “With zest and wit, Cushman gives us the domestic side of the western frontier adventure.”
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “Cushman's heroine is a delightful character, and the historical setting is authentically portrayed.”
HORN BOOK starred review: “Her language energizes and humanizes this story of the women and children who came not to strike it rich but to tame the land for their home.”
5. CONNECTIONS
* This book can easily bridge the gap of student’s interest between the facts and statistics of history and enjoyable literature. Will help bring the Wild West alive.
* Students can create, name, and construct their own “wild west” town.
*Other books about the California Gold Rush:
Dunn, Joeming W. THE CALIFORNIA GOLD RUSH. ISBN 9781602700765
Raum, Elizabeth. THE CALIFORNIA GOLD RUSH: AN INTERACTIVE HISTORY ADVENTURE. ISBN 9781429601603
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
BIOGRAPHY - HILLARY RODHAM CLINTON: DREAMS TAKING FLIGHT
1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Krull, Kathleen. 2008. HILLARY RODHAM CLINTON: DREAMS TAKING FLIGHT. Ill by Amy June Bates. New York, NY: Simon & Schuster Books. ISBN 9781416971290
2. PLOT SUMMARY
Hillary Rodham Clinton is not your typical biography. This book takes the reader through the life of a small girl with big dreams in a story book format. The reader becomes familiar with the high expectations as she is growing up, going to school, and becoming the First Lady of the United States.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
A very warm and inviting picture book biography where Krull portrays Clinton as somewhat of a hero who was unafraid to reach all of her goals. Each of Clinton’s life events are matched with full page spreads that Bates chose to complete in washed out watercolors and pencil sketches that give it a dated look. Every life event is matched with an inspirational saying such as, “Find heroes to lift you up” and “Dare to compete.” An aeronautical theme will keep the readers looking for the next item in the air as they turn the pages. “Flying Facts” and “Sources” both supplement the biography and can be found at the back of the book. Both can be used in conjunction with the text for the reader who would like more facts for research purposes.
REVIEW EXCERPTS
BOOKLIST: “With inspiring messages sweeping across the pages (“Take the lead role in your own life”), this book champions both Clinton and hard work.”
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “Krull incorporates imagery of flight throughout this adulatory overview of Clinton's life.”
4. CONNECTIONS
* This book offers a great introduction to First Ladies, biographies, and perseverance. Can be used in conjunction with other books about Hillary Clinton, or other First Ladies in U.S. history.
* Students can create their own biography as a supplemental project.
*Other books of Presidential First Ladies:
Mattern, Joanne. HILLARY RODHAM CLINTON. ISBN 9781599287928
Gormly, Beatrice. FIRST LADIES: WOMEN WHO CALLED THE WHITE HOUSE HOME. ISBN 9780590255189
Harris, Bill. THE FIRST LADIES FACT BOOK: THE STORIES OF THE WOMEN OF THE WHIT HOUSE, FROM MARTHA WASHINGTON TO LAURA BUSH. ISBN 9781579124687
Krull, Kathleen. 2008. HILLARY RODHAM CLINTON: DREAMS TAKING FLIGHT. Ill by Amy June Bates. New York, NY: Simon & Schuster Books. ISBN 9781416971290
2. PLOT SUMMARY
Hillary Rodham Clinton is not your typical biography. This book takes the reader through the life of a small girl with big dreams in a story book format. The reader becomes familiar with the high expectations as she is growing up, going to school, and becoming the First Lady of the United States.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
A very warm and inviting picture book biography where Krull portrays Clinton as somewhat of a hero who was unafraid to reach all of her goals. Each of Clinton’s life events are matched with full page spreads that Bates chose to complete in washed out watercolors and pencil sketches that give it a dated look. Every life event is matched with an inspirational saying such as, “Find heroes to lift you up” and “Dare to compete.” An aeronautical theme will keep the readers looking for the next item in the air as they turn the pages. “Flying Facts” and “Sources” both supplement the biography and can be found at the back of the book. Both can be used in conjunction with the text for the reader who would like more facts for research purposes.
REVIEW EXCERPTS
BOOKLIST: “With inspiring messages sweeping across the pages (“Take the lead role in your own life”), this book champions both Clinton and hard work.”
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “Krull incorporates imagery of flight throughout this adulatory overview of Clinton's life.”
4. CONNECTIONS
* This book offers a great introduction to First Ladies, biographies, and perseverance. Can be used in conjunction with other books about Hillary Clinton, or other First Ladies in U.S. history.
* Students can create their own biography as a supplemental project.
*Other books of Presidential First Ladies:
Mattern, Joanne. HILLARY RODHAM CLINTON. ISBN 9781599287928
Gormly, Beatrice. FIRST LADIES: WOMEN WHO CALLED THE WHITE HOUSE HOME. ISBN 9780590255189
Harris, Bill. THE FIRST LADIES FACT BOOK: THE STORIES OF THE WOMEN OF THE WHIT HOUSE, FROM MARTHA WASHINGTON TO LAURA BUSH. ISBN 9781579124687
NONFICTION - CATS
1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Simon, Seymour. 2004. CATS. HarperCollins Publishers. ISBN 0060289406
2. PLOT SUMMARY
A great nonfiction informative picture book for children. The book covers the history of cats, their size, physical characteristics, mannerisms, life cycle, diet, how to care for them, and how to choose the right pet for your family. Full color photographs will have even the youngest readers actively engaged.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
CATS is filled with full page brilliant and striking photographs that are matched with narrative style facts. The photographs are well suited to the information that is being given. When Simon is telling the reader about the way cats jump, he shows a cat in multiple poses until the cat lands on his feet. When body language is being learned about, a photo shows a cat in a defensive position with their hair standing up on the back of their neck that goes along with them hissing at another cat. The book is well organized, and tells of the cat’s history and different life stages that take the reader though a kitten being born, all the way into adulthood. As always, Simon’s unique style is instantly recognizable when looking at the book cover. The reader is drawn in immediately with 3 adorable kittens gracing the front of the book. A very user friendly book that will invite children to read it again and again.
4. REVIEW EXCERPTS
BOOKLIST REVIEW: “Simon’s always lucid prose is matched by sharp photos, most of which fill up the pages. An attractive way to introduce children to nonfiction.”
*Received the empire State Award
5. CONNECTIONS
*A Great read aloud that will open up discussions on responsible pet ownership, and the process of choosing the right pet for your family.
* Other great nonfiction books by Seymour Simon:
Simon, Seymour. DOGS. ISBN 0060289422
Simon, Seymour. HORSES. ISBN 0060289449
Simon, Seymour. 2004. CATS. HarperCollins Publishers. ISBN 0060289406
2. PLOT SUMMARY
A great nonfiction informative picture book for children. The book covers the history of cats, their size, physical characteristics, mannerisms, life cycle, diet, how to care for them, and how to choose the right pet for your family. Full color photographs will have even the youngest readers actively engaged.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
CATS is filled with full page brilliant and striking photographs that are matched with narrative style facts. The photographs are well suited to the information that is being given. When Simon is telling the reader about the way cats jump, he shows a cat in multiple poses until the cat lands on his feet. When body language is being learned about, a photo shows a cat in a defensive position with their hair standing up on the back of their neck that goes along with them hissing at another cat. The book is well organized, and tells of the cat’s history and different life stages that take the reader though a kitten being born, all the way into adulthood. As always, Simon’s unique style is instantly recognizable when looking at the book cover. The reader is drawn in immediately with 3 adorable kittens gracing the front of the book. A very user friendly book that will invite children to read it again and again.
4. REVIEW EXCERPTS
BOOKLIST REVIEW: “Simon’s always lucid prose is matched by sharp photos, most of which fill up the pages. An attractive way to introduce children to nonfiction.”
*Received the empire State Award
5. CONNECTIONS
*A Great read aloud that will open up discussions on responsible pet ownership, and the process of choosing the right pet for your family.
* Other great nonfiction books by Seymour Simon:
Simon, Seymour. DOGS. ISBN 0060289422
Simon, Seymour. HORSES. ISBN 0060289449
NONFICTION - ER VETS: LIFE IN AN ANIMAL EMERGENCY ROOM
1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Jackson, Donna M. ER VETS; LIFE IN AN ANIMAL EMERGENCY ROOM. Boston, Ma: Houghton Mifflin Company. ISBN 0618436634
2. PLOT SUMMARY
ER VETS gives a behind the scenes look into an actual animal emergency room that is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The book covers actual cases, and gives profiles of the staff that works there. The patients range from dogs, cats, birds, snakes, and porcupines. The book also gives helpful advice on recognizing symptoms and signs of illness in your pet. Grief counseling is additionally to grieving pet owners at the ER hospital.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Jackson certainly did her homework, as she spent time in a Colorado animal ER room getting to know the staff, vets, grief counselors, and procedures to obtain the information for this book. Jackson discusses several actual cases that she witnessed in the ER. She tells their history and matches the case studies with full color vivid photographs at various stages throughout their treatment. Many of the photographs are complete with bold print captions for those readers who just want to browse the pictures. Short chapters, lingo, and first aid tips help to keep the reader entertained and offer additional knowledge to the reader. Jackson follows up with a glossary, source notes, and an index. This realistic look into the life of a veterinarian will definitely help draw students into the profession.
4. REVIEW EXCERPTS
BOOKLIST Review: “Jackson gives both pets and their caregivers their due, and numerous, excellent photos, including a look at a surgery in progress, make this not only intriguing browsing material but also an honest initiation to a worthwhile career.”
HORN BOOK starred review: “A bright, colorful design and "aww"-inspiring photos enhance this exploration of the workings of a veterinary emergency room.”
5. CONNECTIONS
* A great introduction to career day. This book can be used as a lead in to a guest speaker to orient the students with veterinarians.
*Other books about the profession:
Carlton, David. DALLAS DOC: ALL THE CITY AND COUNTRY CRITTERS IN THE LIFE OF A TEXAS-STYLE VET. ISBN 9781888843538
Liebman, Daniel. I WANT TO BE A VET. ISBN 9781552094716
Jackson, Donna M. ER VETS; LIFE IN AN ANIMAL EMERGENCY ROOM. Boston, Ma: Houghton Mifflin Company. ISBN 0618436634
2. PLOT SUMMARY
ER VETS gives a behind the scenes look into an actual animal emergency room that is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The book covers actual cases, and gives profiles of the staff that works there. The patients range from dogs, cats, birds, snakes, and porcupines. The book also gives helpful advice on recognizing symptoms and signs of illness in your pet. Grief counseling is additionally to grieving pet owners at the ER hospital.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Jackson certainly did her homework, as she spent time in a Colorado animal ER room getting to know the staff, vets, grief counselors, and procedures to obtain the information for this book. Jackson discusses several actual cases that she witnessed in the ER. She tells their history and matches the case studies with full color vivid photographs at various stages throughout their treatment. Many of the photographs are complete with bold print captions for those readers who just want to browse the pictures. Short chapters, lingo, and first aid tips help to keep the reader entertained and offer additional knowledge to the reader. Jackson follows up with a glossary, source notes, and an index. This realistic look into the life of a veterinarian will definitely help draw students into the profession.
4. REVIEW EXCERPTS
BOOKLIST Review: “Jackson gives both pets and their caregivers their due, and numerous, excellent photos, including a look at a surgery in progress, make this not only intriguing browsing material but also an honest initiation to a worthwhile career.”
HORN BOOK starred review: “A bright, colorful design and "aww"-inspiring photos enhance this exploration of the workings of a veterinary emergency room.”
5. CONNECTIONS
* A great introduction to career day. This book can be used as a lead in to a guest speaker to orient the students with veterinarians.
*Other books about the profession:
Carlton, David. DALLAS DOC: ALL THE CITY AND COUNTRY CRITTERS IN THE LIFE OF A TEXAS-STYLE VET. ISBN 9781888843538
Liebman, Daniel. I WANT TO BE A VET. ISBN 9781552094716
Monday, March 2, 2009
POETRY - OUT OF THE DUST
1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Hesse, Karen. 1997. OUT OF THE DUST. New York: Scholastic. ISBN 0590360809
2. PLOT SUMMARY
This story is told from the perspective of a thirteen year old girl growing up in the Oklahoma dust bowl in the midst of the Great Depression. She tells of her family’s struggles to grow wheat on their farm, and the daily struggle to find food to survive. Billie Jo’s mother and unborn brother tragically die in a horrible kitchen accident. The only comfort and solace she receives comes from her playing the piano. Billie Jo’s character tells of her will to survive, and the journey of forgiveness with little or no help from her father.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
OUT OF THE DUST can be seen as both a narrative, but also a free verse written poem. The reading level is 4.5 because of the simplistic nature of the text. The free verse allows the reader to get to the “heart” of the matter quickly and easily. Each free verse represents importance to Billie Jo and depicts another depressing story or event of her life. All of her longings, hopes, and unhappiness of her life can be felt throughout each heart wrenching poem. Although the story is free of illustrations, Hesse creates vivid images of life in the Dust Bowl as Billie Jo’s daddy was “spitting dust” and her mama was turned into a “column of fire.”
OUT OF THE DUST brings the 1930’s alive for the readers who will never encounter the same hardships that are described in the story.
4. REVIEW EXCERPTS
BOOKLIST starred review: “The story is bleak, but Hesse’s writing transcends the gloom and transforms it into a powerfully compelling tale of a girl with enormous strength, courage, and love.”
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL review: “A triumphant story, eloquently told through prose- poetry.
Publisher’s WEEKLY starred review: This intimate novel, written in stanza form, poetically conveys the heat, dust, and wind of Oklahoma. With each meticulously arranged entry Hesse paints a vivid picture of her heroine’s emotions.”
5. CONNECTIONS
· Can be used to supplement history lessons about Oklahoma and the dust bowl/Great Depression Era.
· Also can be used in standalone prose poetry lessons.
· Other fiction books about the Great Depression include:
Craven, Tracy Leininger. KATHLEEN’S UNFORGETTABLE WINTER. ISBN 9781928749264
Dearan, Patrick. WHEN THE SKY RAINED DUST. ISBN 9781571688309
Hesse, Karen. 1997. OUT OF THE DUST. New York: Scholastic. ISBN 0590360809
2. PLOT SUMMARY
This story is told from the perspective of a thirteen year old girl growing up in the Oklahoma dust bowl in the midst of the Great Depression. She tells of her family’s struggles to grow wheat on their farm, and the daily struggle to find food to survive. Billie Jo’s mother and unborn brother tragically die in a horrible kitchen accident. The only comfort and solace she receives comes from her playing the piano. Billie Jo’s character tells of her will to survive, and the journey of forgiveness with little or no help from her father.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
OUT OF THE DUST can be seen as both a narrative, but also a free verse written poem. The reading level is 4.5 because of the simplistic nature of the text. The free verse allows the reader to get to the “heart” of the matter quickly and easily. Each free verse represents importance to Billie Jo and depicts another depressing story or event of her life. All of her longings, hopes, and unhappiness of her life can be felt throughout each heart wrenching poem. Although the story is free of illustrations, Hesse creates vivid images of life in the Dust Bowl as Billie Jo’s daddy was “spitting dust” and her mama was turned into a “column of fire.”
OUT OF THE DUST brings the 1930’s alive for the readers who will never encounter the same hardships that are described in the story.
4. REVIEW EXCERPTS
BOOKLIST starred review: “The story is bleak, but Hesse’s writing transcends the gloom and transforms it into a powerfully compelling tale of a girl with enormous strength, courage, and love.”
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL review: “A triumphant story, eloquently told through prose- poetry.
Publisher’s WEEKLY starred review: This intimate novel, written in stanza form, poetically conveys the heat, dust, and wind of Oklahoma. With each meticulously arranged entry Hesse paints a vivid picture of her heroine’s emotions.”
5. CONNECTIONS
· Can be used to supplement history lessons about Oklahoma and the dust bowl/Great Depression Era.
· Also can be used in standalone prose poetry lessons.
· Other fiction books about the Great Depression include:
Craven, Tracy Leininger. KATHLEEN’S UNFORGETTABLE WINTER. ISBN 9781928749264
Dearan, Patrick. WHEN THE SKY RAINED DUST. ISBN 9781571688309
POETRY - MEOW RUFF
1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Sidman, Joyce. 2006. MEOW RUFF: A STORY IN CONCRETE POETRY. Boston: Houghton Mifflin Company. ISBN 9780618448944
2. PLOT SUMMARY
A delightful book and story of concrete poetry that tells of an unlikely friendship that is sure to develop. A dog slips out of his house and finds himself out alone on the street. A cat founds himself dumped and left to fend for himself out on the street. The two meet up, and are instantly at odds. Until, a thunderstorm starts to brew and they find themselves snuggled up for warmth and company. After the storm, the chase is back on!
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
MEOW RUFF is an excellent book to introduce young children to the world of concrete poetry. Joyce Sidman chooses basic vocabulary that is easily understood by even the youngest of readers. Michelle Berg illustrates those words by turning the words into the objects that they are describing. The words, “Silver-Glinting” and “Chrome Plated” are actually inside and become the basic design of the car, while the words, “Just a tiny puff, a swirl of frosting – cloud” are designed to actually be the cloud. All of the language is intricately intertwined that will have all readers eagerly looking for the next item while they follow the main characters (a dog and a cat) throughout their journey.
The illustrations are created using a very eye pleasing palette of pastel colors. Cartoon illustrations help to create the good feelings of the story, and are done in such a way that every inch of the page are filled with the basic symmetrical shapes. The reader is able to feel the eagerness of the dog while he is saying, “At last, at last- cat!” or “Scary hissing cat!” While at the same time the uneasiness of the cat can be felt while he is thinking, “Back arching –hiss starting- sworn enemy- dog!” The giant words, “KABOOM” and “SIZZLE, SLASH, LASH, SNAP, AND ROAR!” create a feeling of intensity and unease as they show the arrival of a thunder and lightning storm.
Altogether, MEOW RUFF is a very lively and entertaining story that adults and children alike will enjoy.
4. REVIEW EXCERPTS
BOOKLIST starred review: “It’s typically said of picture books that art and text are inseparable, but the truth of that has rarely been more evident than it is in this introduction to concrete poetry.”
HORNBOOK starred review: “A notable poet and a first time children’s book illustrator take concrete poetry to a new level……..”
KIRKUS review: “……the playfulness and originality of concept make this a welcome offering.”
5. CONNECTIONS
*Can be used to introduce concrete poetry about friendship, dogs, or cats.
*Other books of concrete poetry for K-3:
Graham, Joan Bransfield. FLICKER FLASH. ISBN 9780395905012
Lewis, J. Patrick. DOODLE DANDIES. ISBN 9780689848896
Sidman, Joyce. 2006. MEOW RUFF: A STORY IN CONCRETE POETRY. Boston: Houghton Mifflin Company. ISBN 9780618448944
2. PLOT SUMMARY
A delightful book and story of concrete poetry that tells of an unlikely friendship that is sure to develop. A dog slips out of his house and finds himself out alone on the street. A cat founds himself dumped and left to fend for himself out on the street. The two meet up, and are instantly at odds. Until, a thunderstorm starts to brew and they find themselves snuggled up for warmth and company. After the storm, the chase is back on!
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
MEOW RUFF is an excellent book to introduce young children to the world of concrete poetry. Joyce Sidman chooses basic vocabulary that is easily understood by even the youngest of readers. Michelle Berg illustrates those words by turning the words into the objects that they are describing. The words, “Silver-Glinting” and “Chrome Plated” are actually inside and become the basic design of the car, while the words, “Just a tiny puff, a swirl of frosting – cloud” are designed to actually be the cloud. All of the language is intricately intertwined that will have all readers eagerly looking for the next item while they follow the main characters (a dog and a cat) throughout their journey.
The illustrations are created using a very eye pleasing palette of pastel colors. Cartoon illustrations help to create the good feelings of the story, and are done in such a way that every inch of the page are filled with the basic symmetrical shapes. The reader is able to feel the eagerness of the dog while he is saying, “At last, at last- cat!” or “Scary hissing cat!” While at the same time the uneasiness of the cat can be felt while he is thinking, “Back arching –hiss starting- sworn enemy- dog!” The giant words, “KABOOM” and “SIZZLE, SLASH, LASH, SNAP, AND ROAR!” create a feeling of intensity and unease as they show the arrival of a thunder and lightning storm.
Altogether, MEOW RUFF is a very lively and entertaining story that adults and children alike will enjoy.
4. REVIEW EXCERPTS
BOOKLIST starred review: “It’s typically said of picture books that art and text are inseparable, but the truth of that has rarely been more evident than it is in this introduction to concrete poetry.”
HORNBOOK starred review: “A notable poet and a first time children’s book illustrator take concrete poetry to a new level……..”
KIRKUS review: “……the playfulness and originality of concept make this a welcome offering.”
5. CONNECTIONS
*Can be used to introduce concrete poetry about friendship, dogs, or cats.
*Other books of concrete poetry for K-3:
Graham, Joan Bransfield. FLICKER FLASH. ISBN 9780395905012
Lewis, J. Patrick. DOODLE DANDIES. ISBN 9780689848896
POETRY - INSECTLOPEDIA
1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Florian, Douglas. 1998. INSECTLOPEDIA. New York: Harcourt, Inc. ISBN 0152013067
2. PLOT SUMMARY
Definitely not your typical story book, this is a book that is made up of 21 different concrete poems. Each poem is about a different type of insect.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
INSECTLOPEDIA is a topical collection of 21 poems about insects. The poems range from caterpillars, dragonflies, crickets, locusts, etc. Douglas Floriam dedicates a two page spread to each insect with the poem being on one side, and the illustration on the opposite page. The chosen layout allows for large type and plenty of white space, and allows for the reader to appreciate the playfulness of the poems. The poems incorporate humor, word play, and a few even feature concrete poetry. All readers will enjoy the playfulness where the words become the hump of the inchworm, or the words create the roundness of the whirligig beetle.
The washed out watercolor paintings create an entire page of their chosen insect. The color pallet chosen sticks to earth tones and each are framed out with a border. The insects are easily identifiable as they are painted within their natural environment, but still hold onto the playfulness of their poem. Examples of this are where the crickets are holding their fiddle, or the water bug is holding a card.
4. REVIEW EXCERPTS
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL starred review: “Florian offers short, inventive poems that create playful images of animals.……..The design adds to the overall appeal.”
PUBLISHER’S WEEKLY review: “The result is downright stunning.”
KIRKUS review: “The watercolor illustrations, abstract and stylized, achieve a comic affect by incorporating collage elements reminiscent of an entomologist’s field notes.”
5. CONNECTIONS
* Children can easily be invited to draw/create their own concrete poem after choosing an animal to portray or illustrate. Excellent introduction to a thematic unit about insects, or could be used for supplementing the science curriculum.
Other books of concrete poetry:
*Janeczko, Paul. A POKE IN THE I. ISBN 9780763623760
*Loewen, Nancy. WORDS, WIT, AND WONDER: WRITING YOUR OWN POEM. ISBN 9781404853447
Florian, Douglas. 1998. INSECTLOPEDIA. New York: Harcourt, Inc. ISBN 0152013067
2. PLOT SUMMARY
Definitely not your typical story book, this is a book that is made up of 21 different concrete poems. Each poem is about a different type of insect.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
INSECTLOPEDIA is a topical collection of 21 poems about insects. The poems range from caterpillars, dragonflies, crickets, locusts, etc. Douglas Floriam dedicates a two page spread to each insect with the poem being on one side, and the illustration on the opposite page. The chosen layout allows for large type and plenty of white space, and allows for the reader to appreciate the playfulness of the poems. The poems incorporate humor, word play, and a few even feature concrete poetry. All readers will enjoy the playfulness where the words become the hump of the inchworm, or the words create the roundness of the whirligig beetle.
The washed out watercolor paintings create an entire page of their chosen insect. The color pallet chosen sticks to earth tones and each are framed out with a border. The insects are easily identifiable as they are painted within their natural environment, but still hold onto the playfulness of their poem. Examples of this are where the crickets are holding their fiddle, or the water bug is holding a card.
4. REVIEW EXCERPTS
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL starred review: “Florian offers short, inventive poems that create playful images of animals.……..The design adds to the overall appeal.”
PUBLISHER’S WEEKLY review: “The result is downright stunning.”
KIRKUS review: “The watercolor illustrations, abstract and stylized, achieve a comic affect by incorporating collage elements reminiscent of an entomologist’s field notes.”
5. CONNECTIONS
* Children can easily be invited to draw/create their own concrete poem after choosing an animal to portray or illustrate. Excellent introduction to a thematic unit about insects, or could be used for supplementing the science curriculum.
Other books of concrete poetry:
*Janeczko, Paul. A POKE IN THE I. ISBN 9780763623760
*Loewen, Nancy. WORDS, WIT, AND WONDER: WRITING YOUR OWN POEM. ISBN 9781404853447
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
TRADITIONAL LITERATURE - EASY WORK! AN OLD TALE
1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Kimmel, Eric A. 1998. EASY WORK! AN OLD TALE. Ill by Andrew Glass. New York, NY: Holiday House, INC. ISBN 0823413497
2. PLOT SUMMARY
Sometimes the grass isn’t greener on the other side! That is what Mr. McTeague finds out, anyway. Mr. McTeague thought his wife had an easier time staying at home while he was off working in the fields. They arrange to switch places for the day, and things quickly turn quite chaotic for him as he finds himself in one disaster after another that led to their cabin being burned down. Needless to say, they rebuilt their cabin and both returned to their usual set of chores.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Eric Kimmel puts a humorous twist on the age old tale of the wife has an easier job than I do. Andrew Glass illustrates the story beautifully with a comical flair to match step for step with each impeding disaster that Mr. McTeague encounters. His illustrations are comical in nature, with sketch like characteristics. Bright pale colors (blues, greens, yellows, and purples) are illustrated throughout the text to easily tell the story. Glass captures the culture by showing the cabin built into the hill, and being grown over with grass. Mr. and Mrs. McTeague give the reader an inside look into the language and culture by using original sayings such as, "Easy work, eh?" and "Golly neds!"
4. REVIEW EXCERPTS
BOOKLIST: “Kimmel pours a classic Norwegian folktale into an American pot, and Glass brings it to a rolling boil with dappled scenes of domestic chaos.”
CONNECTIONS
*This book could open up story telling time that could be enhanced with felt boards and story recreations. It also allows the children to learn about different cultures.
*Other Folklore books for children:
Asbjornsen, P.C. and Moe, J.E. THE MAN WHO KEPT HOUSE. ISBN 0689505604
Kimmel, Eric. BOOTS AND HIS BROTHERS. ISBN 0823408868
Ziefert, Harriet. THE THREE BILLY GOATS GRUFF. ISBN 0688132596
Kimmel, Eric A. 1998. EASY WORK! AN OLD TALE. Ill by Andrew Glass. New York, NY: Holiday House, INC. ISBN 0823413497
2. PLOT SUMMARY
Sometimes the grass isn’t greener on the other side! That is what Mr. McTeague finds out, anyway. Mr. McTeague thought his wife had an easier time staying at home while he was off working in the fields. They arrange to switch places for the day, and things quickly turn quite chaotic for him as he finds himself in one disaster after another that led to their cabin being burned down. Needless to say, they rebuilt their cabin and both returned to their usual set of chores.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Eric Kimmel puts a humorous twist on the age old tale of the wife has an easier job than I do. Andrew Glass illustrates the story beautifully with a comical flair to match step for step with each impeding disaster that Mr. McTeague encounters. His illustrations are comical in nature, with sketch like characteristics. Bright pale colors (blues, greens, yellows, and purples) are illustrated throughout the text to easily tell the story. Glass captures the culture by showing the cabin built into the hill, and being grown over with grass. Mr. and Mrs. McTeague give the reader an inside look into the language and culture by using original sayings such as, "Easy work, eh?" and "Golly neds!"
4. REVIEW EXCERPTS
BOOKLIST: “Kimmel pours a classic Norwegian folktale into an American pot, and Glass brings it to a rolling boil with dappled scenes of domestic chaos.”
CONNECTIONS
*This book could open up story telling time that could be enhanced with felt boards and story recreations. It also allows the children to learn about different cultures.
*Other Folklore books for children:
Asbjornsen, P.C. and Moe, J.E. THE MAN WHO KEPT HOUSE. ISBN 0689505604
Kimmel, Eric. BOOTS AND HIS BROTHERS. ISBN 0823408868
Ziefert, Harriet. THE THREE BILLY GOATS GRUFF. ISBN 0688132596
TRADITIONAL LITERATURE- BUBBA, THE COWBOY PRINCE
1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Ketteman, Helen. 1997. BUBBA THE COWBOY PRINCE. Ill by James Warhola. New York, NY: Scholastic Press. ISBN 0590255061
2. PLOT SUMMARY
Take the traditional Cinderella story, change the characters to males, add some western flair and humor, and you have yourself BUBBA, THE COWBOY PRINCE. The mean step daddy and two wicked stepbrothers, Milton and Dwayne, are horrible to Bubba. They make him do all the work, make fun of him, and certainly don’t want him to go to the ball. Bubba’s fairy god cow steps in, fancies him up, and sends him “lookin’ downright purty” to the ball to meet Miss Lurleen. At midnight, Bubba leaves his boot behind.
Miss Lurleen exclaims, “This is the boot of a real cowboy and the man I want to marry.”
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
This story follows the traditional plot of the original tale. James Warhola does an excellent job of matching how the characters are illustrated to their qualities of good and evil. The wicked step-daddy is illustrated with dark and brooding colors and lines. Bubba is illustrated to look young, innocent, and taken advantage of. The emotions are clearly seen and felt throughout the story by the characters over-exaggerated facial expressions. Landscapes of blues, browns, and fluffy white clouds help to capture the Texas scenery. The language chosen is rich, and full of both hyperboles and similes that offer wit and humor to the reader. Authentic sayings such as, "Miz Lurleen is the purtiest and richest gal in the county," and "the biggest spread west of the Brazos" help to give the readers a mental picture of the southwest culture.
4. REVIEW EXCERPTS
BOOKLIST: “Ketteman wisely leaves the plot unchanged, but the story has a distinct western flair and a humorous tall-tale feel………this charming and funny retelling may hold more appeal for young boys than the traditional version may.”
PUBLISHER’S WEEKLY: “Well matched flair for hyperbole gives both the narrative and illustrations a one-two punch. Just the ticket for buckaroos lookin’ fer a good read.”
· Nebraska Golden Sower Award, 2001
· Reader’s Choice Awards List in 8 states
5. CONNECTIONS
*This book could be used to compare it to the traditional Cinderella tale. Also, add a few props and it would be a wonderful addition to reader’s theatre.
*Other book variations of Cinderella:
Perlman, Janet. CINDERELLA PENGUIN. ISBN 0670847534
Steptoe, John. MUFARO’S BEAUTIFUL DAUGHTERS. ISBN 0688040454
Young, Ed. LON PO PO. ISBN 0399216197
Ketteman, Helen. 1997. BUBBA THE COWBOY PRINCE. Ill by James Warhola. New York, NY: Scholastic Press. ISBN 0590255061
2. PLOT SUMMARY
Take the traditional Cinderella story, change the characters to males, add some western flair and humor, and you have yourself BUBBA, THE COWBOY PRINCE. The mean step daddy and two wicked stepbrothers, Milton and Dwayne, are horrible to Bubba. They make him do all the work, make fun of him, and certainly don’t want him to go to the ball. Bubba’s fairy god cow steps in, fancies him up, and sends him “lookin’ downright purty” to the ball to meet Miss Lurleen. At midnight, Bubba leaves his boot behind.
Miss Lurleen exclaims, “This is the boot of a real cowboy and the man I want to marry.”
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
This story follows the traditional plot of the original tale. James Warhola does an excellent job of matching how the characters are illustrated to their qualities of good and evil. The wicked step-daddy is illustrated with dark and brooding colors and lines. Bubba is illustrated to look young, innocent, and taken advantage of. The emotions are clearly seen and felt throughout the story by the characters over-exaggerated facial expressions. Landscapes of blues, browns, and fluffy white clouds help to capture the Texas scenery. The language chosen is rich, and full of both hyperboles and similes that offer wit and humor to the reader. Authentic sayings such as, "Miz Lurleen is the purtiest and richest gal in the county," and "the biggest spread west of the Brazos" help to give the readers a mental picture of the southwest culture.
4. REVIEW EXCERPTS
BOOKLIST: “Ketteman wisely leaves the plot unchanged, but the story has a distinct western flair and a humorous tall-tale feel………this charming and funny retelling may hold more appeal for young boys than the traditional version may.”
PUBLISHER’S WEEKLY: “Well matched flair for hyperbole gives both the narrative and illustrations a one-two punch. Just the ticket for buckaroos lookin’ fer a good read.”
· Nebraska Golden Sower Award, 2001
· Reader’s Choice Awards List in 8 states
5. CONNECTIONS
*This book could be used to compare it to the traditional Cinderella tale. Also, add a few props and it would be a wonderful addition to reader’s theatre.
*Other book variations of Cinderella:
Perlman, Janet. CINDERELLA PENGUIN. ISBN 0670847534
Steptoe, John. MUFARO’S BEAUTIFUL DAUGHTERS. ISBN 0688040454
Young, Ed. LON PO PO. ISBN 0399216197
TRADITIONAL LITERATURE - AND THE GREEN GRASS GREW ALL AROUND
1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Schwartz, Alvin. 1992. AND THE GREEN GRASS GREW ALL AROUND. Ill by Sue Truesdell. USA: Harper Collins Publishers. ISBN 0060227575
2. PLOT SUMMARY
Definitely not your traditional story plot with characters of good or evil. This book is a priceless folklore collection of over 250 poems, chants, songs, cheers, etc. that children have enjoyed throughout the years.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Alvin Schwartz has made a huge compilation of traditional folklore poems, songs, chants, cheers that are familiar to many with strong and happy memories attached to the playground. They are arranged in the book by subjects like food, school, nonsense, riddles, games, etc. Sue Tresdell illustrates the poems with black and white drawings that are done in watercolors. Her illustrations are lively and flow from poem to poem that brings humor and life that all can appreciate and enjoy.
4. REVIEW EXCERPTS
KIRKUS REVIEWS: “It’s hard to imagine a child who wouldn’t greet this treasure trove with enthusiasm.”
BOOKLIST STARRED REVIEW: “…..children’s folk poetry this spring has come in like a lion.”
HORN BOOK GUIDE: “A wonderful collection.”
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL STARRED REVIEW: “A marvelous book that is sure to become a classic if children have any say in the matter.”
· Alabama emphasis on Reading Award
· Notable/Best Books
5. CONNECTIONS
*This book is a wonderful tool to open up discussions and storytelling opportunities. Will be carried over to the playground with familiar tunes, chants, and songs!
*Other books with Folk Poetry:
Milnes, Gerald. GRANNY, WILL YOUR DOG BITE AND OTHER MOUNTAIN RHYMES. ISBN
0874835607
Schwartz, Alvin. I SAW YOU IN THE BATHTUB, AND OTHER FOLK RHYMES. ISBN
0060252987
Schwartz, Alvin. 1992. AND THE GREEN GRASS GREW ALL AROUND. Ill by Sue Truesdell. USA: Harper Collins Publishers. ISBN 0060227575
2. PLOT SUMMARY
Definitely not your traditional story plot with characters of good or evil. This book is a priceless folklore collection of over 250 poems, chants, songs, cheers, etc. that children have enjoyed throughout the years.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Alvin Schwartz has made a huge compilation of traditional folklore poems, songs, chants, cheers that are familiar to many with strong and happy memories attached to the playground. They are arranged in the book by subjects like food, school, nonsense, riddles, games, etc. Sue Tresdell illustrates the poems with black and white drawings that are done in watercolors. Her illustrations are lively and flow from poem to poem that brings humor and life that all can appreciate and enjoy.
4. REVIEW EXCERPTS
KIRKUS REVIEWS: “It’s hard to imagine a child who wouldn’t greet this treasure trove with enthusiasm.”
BOOKLIST STARRED REVIEW: “…..children’s folk poetry this spring has come in like a lion.”
HORN BOOK GUIDE: “A wonderful collection.”
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL STARRED REVIEW: “A marvelous book that is sure to become a classic if children have any say in the matter.”
· Alabama emphasis on Reading Award
· Notable/Best Books
5. CONNECTIONS
*This book is a wonderful tool to open up discussions and storytelling opportunities. Will be carried over to the playground with familiar tunes, chants, and songs!
*Other books with Folk Poetry:
Milnes, Gerald. GRANNY, WILL YOUR DOG BITE AND OTHER MOUNTAIN RHYMES. ISBN
0874835607
Schwartz, Alvin. I SAW YOU IN THE BATHTUB, AND OTHER FOLK RHYMES. ISBN
0060252987
Monday, January 26, 2009
PICTURE BOOKS - The Hello, Goodbye Window
1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Juster, Norton. 2005. THE HELLO, GOODBYE WINDOW. Ill by Chris Raschka. New York, NY: Scholastic Inc. ISBN 0439897505
2. PLOT SUMMARY
THE HELLO, GOODBYE WINDOW is a story that is told from the viewpoint of a little girl. She tells about spending time at her grandparent’s house and about a special kitchen window that is located in the heart of their home. She tells of adventures, rituals, and special treats that go on during her visits. She also shares her experiences from the outside of the window looking in, and from the inside looking out. Her absolute love and adoration for her grandparents are portrayed throughout all of her experiences.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Norton Juster shares a story of a young girl who lives in the safety net of knowing her family is a safe and warm haven for her to enjoy her life and visits to her grandparent’s house. He writes an easy to follow story that children and adults can both enjoy and appreciate while remembering their own experiences of growing up. It is honest and direct and captures the fond memories, fears, excitement, imagination, and the sadness of when it is time for her visit to come to an end.
Chris Raschka’s vibrant illustrations capture the warmth and love of the story. They are bright and cheerful and capture the happiness of a young girl who looks forward to her visits. He is able to combine loose swirls, dots and dabs, lines, and vibrant colors to portray the character’s happy emotions and the complete love and adoration that go along with it.
THE HELLO, GOODBYE WINDOW is an easy book to share with any age group. The story is easy to follow and can easily be related to family, love, trust, and bonds.
4. REVIEW EXCERPTS
KIRKUS REVIEWS: “Charming--and charmingly illustrated--snapshot of a little girl's love affair with her grandparents.”
THE HORN BOOK MAGAZINE: 2006 Caldecott Medal
BOOKLIST: “A book that speaks to the real lives of children and their experiences.”
5. CONNECTIONS
*This is a great book to introduce the subject of families or grandparents as well as the special relationships, bonds, and trust that are built inside of a family unit.
* Other books about family relationships are:
Andreae, Giles. HEAVEN IS HAVING YOU. ISBN 1589250168
Casely, Judith. GRANDPA’S GARDEN LUNCH. ISBN 0688088171
Levey Oppenheim, Shulamith. FIREFLIES FOR NATHAN. ISBN 0688121470
Juster, Norton. 2005. THE HELLO, GOODBYE WINDOW. Ill by Chris Raschka. New York, NY: Scholastic Inc. ISBN 0439897505
2. PLOT SUMMARY
THE HELLO, GOODBYE WINDOW is a story that is told from the viewpoint of a little girl. She tells about spending time at her grandparent’s house and about a special kitchen window that is located in the heart of their home. She tells of adventures, rituals, and special treats that go on during her visits. She also shares her experiences from the outside of the window looking in, and from the inside looking out. Her absolute love and adoration for her grandparents are portrayed throughout all of her experiences.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Norton Juster shares a story of a young girl who lives in the safety net of knowing her family is a safe and warm haven for her to enjoy her life and visits to her grandparent’s house. He writes an easy to follow story that children and adults can both enjoy and appreciate while remembering their own experiences of growing up. It is honest and direct and captures the fond memories, fears, excitement, imagination, and the sadness of when it is time for her visit to come to an end.
Chris Raschka’s vibrant illustrations capture the warmth and love of the story. They are bright and cheerful and capture the happiness of a young girl who looks forward to her visits. He is able to combine loose swirls, dots and dabs, lines, and vibrant colors to portray the character’s happy emotions and the complete love and adoration that go along with it.
THE HELLO, GOODBYE WINDOW is an easy book to share with any age group. The story is easy to follow and can easily be related to family, love, trust, and bonds.
4. REVIEW EXCERPTS
KIRKUS REVIEWS: “Charming--and charmingly illustrated--snapshot of a little girl's love affair with her grandparents.”
THE HORN BOOK MAGAZINE: 2006 Caldecott Medal
BOOKLIST: “A book that speaks to the real lives of children and their experiences.”
5. CONNECTIONS
*This is a great book to introduce the subject of families or grandparents as well as the special relationships, bonds, and trust that are built inside of a family unit.
* Other books about family relationships are:
Andreae, Giles. HEAVEN IS HAVING YOU. ISBN 1589250168
Casely, Judith. GRANDPA’S GARDEN LUNCH. ISBN 0688088171
Levey Oppenheim, Shulamith. FIREFLIES FOR NATHAN. ISBN 0688121470
PICTURE BOOKS- Knuffle Bunny
1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Willems, Mo. 2004. KNUFFLE BUNNY. New York, NY: Hyperion Books for children. ISBN 0786818700
2. PLOT SUMMARY
A small child named Trixie and her daddy go off on an errand together, all the while Trixie lugs her “Knuffle Bunny” around. She is happy to be with her daddy doing errands, until she realizes that she has misplaced her “Knuffle Bunny.” Trying to communicate with her daddy proves to be the problem, so Trixie becomes louder and louder, starts to panic, and eventually goes “Boneless.” When they return home, her mother asked about “Knuffle Bunny,” and the three of them go off in pursuit of Trixie’s bunny. They find the bunny and Trixie is happy once again.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
This picture book will hit home for anyone that has ever had a child, or for any child that has ever had a “special toy or belonging.” Mo Willems tells the story that is so true to life about how an errand or day can suddenly take a turn for the worse when a child realizes that they have left or misplaced their belonging. He captures their frustration in trying to communicate with their parents when they aren’t yet able to speak words, and the frustration that their parents feel when they have no idea what is being said to them. Adults will enjoy the humor in the situation and children will enjoy the over exaggerated illustrations.
Mo Willems used sepia pictures of a real neighborhood, with his colorful illustrations of his characters superimposed over the photographs. The result is an easy to follow adventure for both adults and children. The story becomes extremely believable and the characters emotions are evident on their faces. The words and font chosen also help to illustrate the character’s emotions as they become bigger and bigger as Trixie starts to panic, and are more like pencil sketching as she is babbling to her father.
This book is a perfect addition to any library that adults and children both are sure to enjoy. It captures the enjoyment, frustration, love, and humor of a father and daughter outing.
4. REVIEW EXCERPTS
Starred review in SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “A seamless and supremely satisfying presentation of art and text.”
BOOKLIST: “This comic gem proves that Caldecott Medal-winner Willems, the Dr. Spock and Robin Williams of the lap-sit crowd, has just as clear a bead on pre-verbal children as on silver-tongued preschool
CHILDREN’S LITERATURE REVIEW: Caldecott Honor Medal in 2005
5. CONNECTIONS
*This book could open up a conversation about the relationships of fathers and daughters and the special bond that they share.
*Other books about father and daughter relationships:
Cobb, Daryl K. DADDY DID I EVER SAY? I LOVE YOU, LOVE YOU, EVERY DAY. ISBN 1424339189
Grambling, Lois G. & Gaffney-Kessell, Walter. DADDY WILL BE THERE. ISBN 0688149839, 9780688149833
Willems, Mo. 2004. KNUFFLE BUNNY. New York, NY: Hyperion Books for children. ISBN 0786818700
2. PLOT SUMMARY
A small child named Trixie and her daddy go off on an errand together, all the while Trixie lugs her “Knuffle Bunny” around. She is happy to be with her daddy doing errands, until she realizes that she has misplaced her “Knuffle Bunny.” Trying to communicate with her daddy proves to be the problem, so Trixie becomes louder and louder, starts to panic, and eventually goes “Boneless.” When they return home, her mother asked about “Knuffle Bunny,” and the three of them go off in pursuit of Trixie’s bunny. They find the bunny and Trixie is happy once again.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
This picture book will hit home for anyone that has ever had a child, or for any child that has ever had a “special toy or belonging.” Mo Willems tells the story that is so true to life about how an errand or day can suddenly take a turn for the worse when a child realizes that they have left or misplaced their belonging. He captures their frustration in trying to communicate with their parents when they aren’t yet able to speak words, and the frustration that their parents feel when they have no idea what is being said to them. Adults will enjoy the humor in the situation and children will enjoy the over exaggerated illustrations.
Mo Willems used sepia pictures of a real neighborhood, with his colorful illustrations of his characters superimposed over the photographs. The result is an easy to follow adventure for both adults and children. The story becomes extremely believable and the characters emotions are evident on their faces. The words and font chosen also help to illustrate the character’s emotions as they become bigger and bigger as Trixie starts to panic, and are more like pencil sketching as she is babbling to her father.
This book is a perfect addition to any library that adults and children both are sure to enjoy. It captures the enjoyment, frustration, love, and humor of a father and daughter outing.
4. REVIEW EXCERPTS
Starred review in SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “A seamless and supremely satisfying presentation of art and text.”
BOOKLIST: “This comic gem proves that Caldecott Medal-winner Willems, the Dr. Spock and Robin Williams of the lap-sit crowd, has just as clear a bead on pre-verbal children as on silver-tongued preschool
CHILDREN’S LITERATURE REVIEW: Caldecott Honor Medal in 2005
5. CONNECTIONS
*This book could open up a conversation about the relationships of fathers and daughters and the special bond that they share.
*Other books about father and daughter relationships:
Cobb, Daryl K. DADDY DID I EVER SAY? I LOVE YOU, LOVE YOU, EVERY DAY. ISBN 1424339189
Grambling, Lois G. & Gaffney-Kessell, Walter. DADDY WILL BE THERE. ISBN 0688149839, 9780688149833
PICTURE BOOKS- Side by Side: Five Favorite Picture Book Teams Go To Work
1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Marcus, Leonard S. 2001. SIDE BY SIDE. New York, NY: Walker & Company. ISBN 0802796168
2. PLOT SUMMARY
This book is a collection of five picture book teams and their personal stories of their journey to success. Each team (author and illustrator) shares their personal experiences of how they met, how they collaborated, and how their journeys included both successes and failures. They include pictures of their first drafts, initial drawings and sketches, and the finished products after their collaboration took place. It is a very inspirational retelling of personal experiences for anyone who has ever dreamed of creating a picture book.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
SIDE BY SIDE is not your typical picture book. There are no plot lines, or themes to be learned. It is a book that tells the stories of five picture book teams and their journeys on the road to creating all time favorite picture books. It tells of how each author and illustrator met, about their collaboration process, and the meaningful friendships that developed from the many years that they worked together. The authors had to develop a trust with their illustrators, and vice versa in order to develop a final product that they were both happy with. The book includes snapshots of beginning sketches, works in progress, and the end results.
The illustrations provided gives a rare glimpse inside the illustrators mind as they reveal what the road to completion looks like. Some illustrations began with actual models; others were born with just a thought or an idea in mind. They show how some things were modified, changed, left out, or added to that eventually led up to what we see in the final version of the picture book.
SIDE BY SIDE is an interesting and alternative way to think about picture books. It would open the door for many conversations with children and adults, and provide opportunities to explore the world and creation of picture books.
4. REVIEW EXCERPTS
Starred review in BOOKLIST: “Well written and beautifully designed.”
Kirkus Reviews: “Valuable insights about the many different ways children’s book creators (and editors) approach their projects. Adults who work with children’s books will delight in this glimpse into the creative process.”
Starred review in PUBLISHERS WEEKLY: “Readers…..will appreciate the insights into the inner workings of bookmaking.”
5. CONNECTIONS
This book shows the ups and downs of team collaboration during the process of creating children’s picture books. This is a great tool for career days, to encourages team work, or as a tool for students that show interest in the children’s literature field.
*Other books that show the book creation process:
Marcus, Leonard. PASS IT DOWN. ISBN 0802796001
Marcus, Leonard. A CALDECOTT CELEBRATION. ISBN 0802786561
Marcus, Leonard S. 2001. SIDE BY SIDE. New York, NY: Walker & Company. ISBN 0802796168
2. PLOT SUMMARY
This book is a collection of five picture book teams and their personal stories of their journey to success. Each team (author and illustrator) shares their personal experiences of how they met, how they collaborated, and how their journeys included both successes and failures. They include pictures of their first drafts, initial drawings and sketches, and the finished products after their collaboration took place. It is a very inspirational retelling of personal experiences for anyone who has ever dreamed of creating a picture book.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
SIDE BY SIDE is not your typical picture book. There are no plot lines, or themes to be learned. It is a book that tells the stories of five picture book teams and their journeys on the road to creating all time favorite picture books. It tells of how each author and illustrator met, about their collaboration process, and the meaningful friendships that developed from the many years that they worked together. The authors had to develop a trust with their illustrators, and vice versa in order to develop a final product that they were both happy with. The book includes snapshots of beginning sketches, works in progress, and the end results.
The illustrations provided gives a rare glimpse inside the illustrators mind as they reveal what the road to completion looks like. Some illustrations began with actual models; others were born with just a thought or an idea in mind. They show how some things were modified, changed, left out, or added to that eventually led up to what we see in the final version of the picture book.
SIDE BY SIDE is an interesting and alternative way to think about picture books. It would open the door for many conversations with children and adults, and provide opportunities to explore the world and creation of picture books.
4. REVIEW EXCERPTS
Starred review in BOOKLIST: “Well written and beautifully designed.”
Kirkus Reviews: “Valuable insights about the many different ways children’s book creators (and editors) approach their projects. Adults who work with children’s books will delight in this glimpse into the creative process.”
Starred review in PUBLISHERS WEEKLY: “Readers…..will appreciate the insights into the inner workings of bookmaking.”
5. CONNECTIONS
This book shows the ups and downs of team collaboration during the process of creating children’s picture books. This is a great tool for career days, to encourages team work, or as a tool for students that show interest in the children’s literature field.
*Other books that show the book creation process:
Marcus, Leonard. PASS IT DOWN. ISBN 0802796001
Marcus, Leonard. A CALDECOTT CELEBRATION. ISBN 0802786561
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
First Post!!
Well, this is my first post as I begin the new semester at TWU. Since this is a Children's and YA Lit class, I will be posting various books and my thoughts as we move through the semester.
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