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
Monday, March 23, 2009
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
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