ISBN: 978-1-401-21115-8
DC Comics, NY 2007
unpaginated
Plot Summary
After Jane is hurt in a terrorist attack in Metro City, her parents no longer feel safe in the city and move to the suburbs. Jane is upset because a boy who was right next to her at the time of the attack is in a coma and no one knows who he is. Jane knows he's an artist because she found his sketch book. She also has to try and make friends at a new high school so she starts secret art club with other girls named Jane and their try to make their suburb more beautiful by leaving random "art installations" all over town. However, their attempts at art are seen as possible terrorist threats.
Critical Evaluation
This graphic novel packs a lot of meaning into the dialogue. This is the first graphic novel I've read and I was a little confused by which Jane was talking but I don't think teens would have that problem. My only criticism is that the gay boy is stereotypical (loves to shop, wants to be one of the girls) but the book is original and gives a different perspective on terrorism (not that different from Little Brother in that teenagers are perceived at threats).
Reader's Annotation
Jane misses living in the big city and all the public art and museums so she starts a secret art club with other girls named Jane. However, not everyone likes their attempts to "beautify" the town.
Author Info
Cecil Castellucci grew up in NYC, is French-Canadian and the author of acclaimed YA novel, Boy Proof. She has been named a Flying Start by Publishers Weekly. She still looks for street art wherever she goes. The Plain Janes is her first graphic novel.
Jim Rugg is the artist and co-creator of Street Angel. He grew up in Pittsburgh and still lives there. He's disappointed that his school didn't have a girl "gang" like the Janes.
Genre
YA graphic novel
Curriculum Ties
Could be used in Life Skills or on a high school reading list
Booktalking Ideas
1. Jane talks Damon into driving all the way into Metro City with her so she can visit her John Doe.
2. Damon throws the paint ball off the clock tower after Jane feels that her friends have let her down.
Reading/Interest Level
Age 13+
Challenge Issues and Defense
gay character, Jane leaves to go the city without her parents' knowledge, terrorist threat
the violence is implied and her parents ground her, there is no sex, only one brief kiss
Starred review from Booklist
Why I Included This Book
Acclaimed author and I wanted to read a graphic novel
Monday, November 30, 2009
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Wait For Me by An Na
ISBN: 978-0-399-24275-5
G.P.Putnam's Sons, NY
2006
169 pages
Plot Summary
It's the hot summer before Mina's senior year in high school and she's spending her time working in her family's dry cleaners and protecting her little sister from their mother's wrath. Suna doesn't hear well and her mother feels that she is "damaged goods." Mina, on the other hand, is supposedly the perfect daughter although Mina is worried that her lies will soon come crashing down on her. Her mother wants her to go to Harvard but she has been changing her grades - they are nowhere near good enough for an Ivy League school. Her mother hires Ysrael, a Mexican teen, to work at the dry cleaners and he and Mina fall in love.
Critical Evaluation
This is a sensitive portrayal of lies and family loyalty and loves and desires. Mina doesn't know exactly what she wants - she just knows that her wants are different from her mother's. A criticism of An Na's writings is that the Korean parents are always angry - and it is the mother who is angry in this book.
Reader's Annotation
Mina tries hard to be the perfect daughter and the perfect sister, working at her family's dry cleaners during the summer, but she falls in love with the young Mexican worker who has dreams of his own.
Author Info
An Na was born in Korea but raised in San Diego. She won the Printz Award for her first YA book, A Step From Heaven. She lives in Vermont with her husband and daughter.
Genre
YA novel - coming-of-age
Curriculum Ties
high school reading list
Booktalking Ideas
1. Jonathon helps Mina lie to her mother about being president of the honor society.
2. Ysrael takes Mina and her sister to the Mexican restaurant so they can hear his music.
Reading/Interest Level
high school (age 14+) for both
Challenge Issues and Defense
a scene of non-consensual sex, racism
sensitive portrayal of mixed race dating
Excellent reviews from School Library Journal and Publishers Weekly
Why I Included This Book
I did my author report on An Na so I wanted to read all her books.
G.P.Putnam's Sons, NY
2006
169 pages
Plot Summary
It's the hot summer before Mina's senior year in high school and she's spending her time working in her family's dry cleaners and protecting her little sister from their mother's wrath. Suna doesn't hear well and her mother feels that she is "damaged goods." Mina, on the other hand, is supposedly the perfect daughter although Mina is worried that her lies will soon come crashing down on her. Her mother wants her to go to Harvard but she has been changing her grades - they are nowhere near good enough for an Ivy League school. Her mother hires Ysrael, a Mexican teen, to work at the dry cleaners and he and Mina fall in love.
Critical Evaluation
This is a sensitive portrayal of lies and family loyalty and loves and desires. Mina doesn't know exactly what she wants - she just knows that her wants are different from her mother's. A criticism of An Na's writings is that the Korean parents are always angry - and it is the mother who is angry in this book.
Reader's Annotation
Mina tries hard to be the perfect daughter and the perfect sister, working at her family's dry cleaners during the summer, but she falls in love with the young Mexican worker who has dreams of his own.
Author Info
An Na was born in Korea but raised in San Diego. She won the Printz Award for her first YA book, A Step From Heaven. She lives in Vermont with her husband and daughter.
Genre
YA novel - coming-of-age
Curriculum Ties
high school reading list
Booktalking Ideas
1. Jonathon helps Mina lie to her mother about being president of the honor society.
2. Ysrael takes Mina and her sister to the Mexican restaurant so they can hear his music.
Reading/Interest Level
high school (age 14+) for both
Challenge Issues and Defense
a scene of non-consensual sex, racism
sensitive portrayal of mixed race dating
Excellent reviews from School Library Journal and Publishers Weekly
Why I Included This Book
I did my author report on An Na so I wanted to read all her books.
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson
ISBN: 978-0-307-26975-1
Alfred A. Knopf, NY 2009
translated from the Swedish by Reg Keeland
Plot Summary
Journalist Mikael Blomkvist has been hired by family patriarch Henrik Vanger to investigate the disappearance of his favorite niece, Harriet, almost 40 years before. Mikael enlists the help of Lisbeth Salander, a troubled computer hacker genius who is only 24, tattooed and pierced and the title character of the book. Together they find out many family secrets and corruption in top Swedish and international companies.
Critical Evaluation
This is a smart, suspenseful book with lots of twists and turns. I can't wait to read the 2nd and 3rd books in the trilogy. I think that older teens would find this book captivating, mostly because of the character of Lisbeth Salander who is tough as nails because of her past as a foster child. The complexity of the novel, the violence and unusual place names would make it too difficult for teens younger than about 16.
Reader's Annotation
Journalist Mikael Blomkvist doesn't want to investigate the disappearance of 16-year-old Harriet Vanger. He takes the case to appease an old man and because he needs to stay away from his beloved Millennium magazine until the scandal of a libel suit blows over.
Author Info
I was saddened to learn that Swedish author Stieg Larsson died suddenly of a heart attack shortly after delivering the manuscripts of his trilogy, which have become blockbuster bestsellers throughout Europe and now the US. He was the editor in chief of Expo magazine and a leading expert on right-wing extremist and Nazi organizations.
Genre
adult cross-over mystery suspense novel
Curriculum Ties - probably none
Booktalking Ideas
1. Mikael Blomkvist first visits Henrik Vanger to find out why he wants to hire him.
2. Mikael Blomkvist confronts Lisbeth Salander at her apt.
Reading/Interest Level
high school (16+) through adult for both
Challenge Issues and Defense
violence, bisexuality, sexual abuse, language, computer hacking
all make this book inappropriate for younger teens; it is an adult book and should be read by
mature teens (16+ ) only
Why I Included This Book
The title sounded intriguing, it's on bestseller lists and has a favorable buzz.
Rave reviews from the Washington Post, the Chicago Tribune and others.
Included as an adult crossover novel.
Alfred A. Knopf, NY 2009
translated from the Swedish by Reg Keeland
Plot Summary
Journalist Mikael Blomkvist has been hired by family patriarch Henrik Vanger to investigate the disappearance of his favorite niece, Harriet, almost 40 years before. Mikael enlists the help of Lisbeth Salander, a troubled computer hacker genius who is only 24, tattooed and pierced and the title character of the book. Together they find out many family secrets and corruption in top Swedish and international companies.
Critical Evaluation
This is a smart, suspenseful book with lots of twists and turns. I can't wait to read the 2nd and 3rd books in the trilogy. I think that older teens would find this book captivating, mostly because of the character of Lisbeth Salander who is tough as nails because of her past as a foster child. The complexity of the novel, the violence and unusual place names would make it too difficult for teens younger than about 16.
Reader's Annotation
Journalist Mikael Blomkvist doesn't want to investigate the disappearance of 16-year-old Harriet Vanger. He takes the case to appease an old man and because he needs to stay away from his beloved Millennium magazine until the scandal of a libel suit blows over.
Author Info
I was saddened to learn that Swedish author Stieg Larsson died suddenly of a heart attack shortly after delivering the manuscripts of his trilogy, which have become blockbuster bestsellers throughout Europe and now the US. He was the editor in chief of Expo magazine and a leading expert on right-wing extremist and Nazi organizations.
Genre
adult cross-over mystery suspense novel
Curriculum Ties - probably none
Booktalking Ideas
1. Mikael Blomkvist first visits Henrik Vanger to find out why he wants to hire him.
2. Mikael Blomkvist confronts Lisbeth Salander at her apt.
Reading/Interest Level
high school (16+) through adult for both
Challenge Issues and Defense
violence, bisexuality, sexual abuse, language, computer hacking
all make this book inappropriate for younger teens; it is an adult book and should be read by
mature teens (16+ ) only
Why I Included This Book
The title sounded intriguing, it's on bestseller lists and has a favorable buzz.
Rave reviews from the Washington Post, the Chicago Tribune and others.
Included as an adult crossover novel.
The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros
ISBN: 0-679-73477-5
Vintage Contemporaries, NY 1991 (original edition, Arte Publico Press, 1984)
110 pages
Plot Summary
Esperanza loves her family but dreams of more. She is disappointed because when her parents told her they would be moving to their own house, she pictured it like the houses on TV, white with 3 bathrooms, big yards and real stairs, not hallway stairs. Her father buys lottery tickets and they dream of a big house. Her parents say the house is "temporary" but Esperanza isn't so sure.
Critical Evaluation
Written in a series of short vignettes, this is a poetic and classic coming-of-age story for young Latinas. Much has been written about this book but the most telling is that it has been an inspiration for a couple of generations of girls and would-be writers. It is a good choice for reluctant readers.
Reader's Annotations
Esperanza lives in the poor Latino section of Chicago and aspires to own a beautiful home on a hill like the places where her father works as a gardener. She says that she would invite bums to live in the attic.
Author Info
Sandra Cisneros was born in Chicago in 1954. She worked as a teacher to high school dropouts and is an internationally acclaimed author of fiction and poetry. She is the daughter of a Mexican father and a Mexican-American mother and the sister to 6 brothers. She lives in San Antonio, Texas.
Genre
Latina coming-of-age story
Some consider this an early YA novel and others would call it adult-crossover
Curriculum Ties
On many high school required reading lists
Booktalking Ideas
1. Esperanza is excited to eat her rice sandwich in the school's canteen.
2. Beautiful Sally is beaten by her father and comes to stay with Esperanza's family.
Reading/Interest Level
High school and college for both; would be inappropriate for middle school
Challenge Issues and Defense
violence, child abuse and rape
the scenes are not graphic and the book is a modern classic
Why I Included This Book
I decided to re-read this book after An Na said that it was a major inspiration for her YA novel,
A Step from Heaven.
Vintage Contemporaries, NY 1991 (original edition, Arte Publico Press, 1984)
110 pages
Plot Summary
Esperanza loves her family but dreams of more. She is disappointed because when her parents told her they would be moving to their own house, she pictured it like the houses on TV, white with 3 bathrooms, big yards and real stairs, not hallway stairs. Her father buys lottery tickets and they dream of a big house. Her parents say the house is "temporary" but Esperanza isn't so sure.
Critical Evaluation
Written in a series of short vignettes, this is a poetic and classic coming-of-age story for young Latinas. Much has been written about this book but the most telling is that it has been an inspiration for a couple of generations of girls and would-be writers. It is a good choice for reluctant readers.
Reader's Annotations
Esperanza lives in the poor Latino section of Chicago and aspires to own a beautiful home on a hill like the places where her father works as a gardener. She says that she would invite bums to live in the attic.
Author Info
Sandra Cisneros was born in Chicago in 1954. She worked as a teacher to high school dropouts and is an internationally acclaimed author of fiction and poetry. She is the daughter of a Mexican father and a Mexican-American mother and the sister to 6 brothers. She lives in San Antonio, Texas.
Genre
Latina coming-of-age story
Some consider this an early YA novel and others would call it adult-crossover
Curriculum Ties
On many high school required reading lists
Booktalking Ideas
1. Esperanza is excited to eat her rice sandwich in the school's canteen.
2. Beautiful Sally is beaten by her father and comes to stay with Esperanza's family.
Reading/Interest Level
High school and college for both; would be inappropriate for middle school
Challenge Issues and Defense
violence, child abuse and rape
the scenes are not graphic and the book is a modern classic
Why I Included This Book
I decided to re-read this book after An Na said that it was a major inspiration for her YA novel,
A Step from Heaven.
Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher
Audiobook ISBN: 978-0-7393-5650-0
Listening Library, 2007
Read by Joel Johnstone & Debra Wiseman
Book ISBN: 978-1-59514-171-2
Razorbill, NY 2007
288 pages
Plot Summary
High school student Clay Jensen receives a package of 13 tapes that were sent by Hannah Baker, a friend who committed suicide. Each of the tapes spotlight a person Hannah feels responsible for her final decision. Clay never knew about most of the devastating events that occurred and can't figure out why he was chosen to receive the tapes as he considered himself a good guy and a friend. He is drawn into her story and follows the instructions on the tapes but wishes he had realized before it was too late that Hannah had been calling out for help.
Critical Evaluation
This is a devastatingly anti-suicide book. I would usually recommend reading a book rather than listening to its audio version, but the way this book is written, listening to the 13 tapes brings out all the raw emotion of the troubled girl. Listening to Hannah's voice is a jolt to Clay but should be for any listener as her pain comes through loud and clear.
Reader's Annotation
Clay Jensen doesn't understand why he's one of the 13 reasons why Hannah Baker committed suicide. He really liked her and wishes he had known the warning signs before it was too late.
Author Info
Jay Asher got the idea for Thirteen Reasons Why while he was at a museum, listening to the audio of the exhibit and hearing the eeriness in the disembodied voice of the woman. This is his first book. He lives on the central coast of California.
More about the author at www.discomermaids.blogspot.com
Genre
Realistic YA about suicide
Curriculum Ties
Should be required reading in a Life Skills class
Booktalking Ideas
1. Clay uncharacteristically steals a Walkman from his friend Tony's car.
2. Clay waits at the diner but can't figure out why Tony doesn't leave.
Reading/Interest Level
High school for both; not appropriate for middle school
Challenge Issues and Defense
suicide, rape scene, underage drinking
Strong anti-suicide message - book provides warning signs
Many awards including California Book Award winner, Quick Pick for Reluctant Readers (YALSA) and Best Books for Young Adults (also YALSA)
Why I Included This Book
I read the audiobook because it was a Selected Audiobook for YA and it was an excellent choice. The book was a NY Times Bestseller.
Listening Library, 2007
Read by Joel Johnstone & Debra Wiseman
Book ISBN: 978-1-59514-171-2
Razorbill, NY 2007
288 pages
Plot Summary
High school student Clay Jensen receives a package of 13 tapes that were sent by Hannah Baker, a friend who committed suicide. Each of the tapes spotlight a person Hannah feels responsible for her final decision. Clay never knew about most of the devastating events that occurred and can't figure out why he was chosen to receive the tapes as he considered himself a good guy and a friend. He is drawn into her story and follows the instructions on the tapes but wishes he had realized before it was too late that Hannah had been calling out for help.
Critical Evaluation
This is a devastatingly anti-suicide book. I would usually recommend reading a book rather than listening to its audio version, but the way this book is written, listening to the 13 tapes brings out all the raw emotion of the troubled girl. Listening to Hannah's voice is a jolt to Clay but should be for any listener as her pain comes through loud and clear.
Reader's Annotation
Clay Jensen doesn't understand why he's one of the 13 reasons why Hannah Baker committed suicide. He really liked her and wishes he had known the warning signs before it was too late.
Author Info
Jay Asher got the idea for Thirteen Reasons Why while he was at a museum, listening to the audio of the exhibit and hearing the eeriness in the disembodied voice of the woman. This is his first book. He lives on the central coast of California.
More about the author at www.discomermaids.blogspot.com
Genre
Realistic YA about suicide
Curriculum Ties
Should be required reading in a Life Skills class
Booktalking Ideas
1. Clay uncharacteristically steals a Walkman from his friend Tony's car.
2. Clay waits at the diner but can't figure out why Tony doesn't leave.
Reading/Interest Level
High school for both; not appropriate for middle school
Challenge Issues and Defense
suicide, rape scene, underage drinking
Strong anti-suicide message - book provides warning signs
Many awards including California Book Award winner, Quick Pick for Reluctant Readers (YALSA) and Best Books for Young Adults (also YALSA)
Why I Included This Book
I read the audiobook because it was a Selected Audiobook for YA and it was an excellent choice. The book was a NY Times Bestseller.
The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky
ISBN: 978-0-671-027346
Pocket Books, NY
1999
213 pages
Plot Summary
Charlie is a brilliant, introverted, troubled high school freshman who is an observer of life, both at home and school. He is too passive and just lets things happen to him. He meets Patrick and Sam who are brother and sister and falls madly in love with Sam (the sister). but does nothing about it. He goes to parties with the siblings and experiments with drugs and sex but none of it seems to affect him until he has a breakdown and remembers what happened to him with a favorite aunt.
Critical Evaluation
Told in a series of letters that Charlie is writing to an unnamed person, this book has developed a cult following and I can see why. Charlie is sensitively portrayed but we don't know why he's so troubled until near the end of the book. There are lots of literary, music and movie references that made me want to read, hear and see all of them. This was a fast read and an honest depiction of the kinds of things that go on in high school. This was one of the best young adult books that I've read. The character of Charlie stays with you long after you've finished the book.
Reader's Annotation
14-year-old Charlie is brilliant but almost sleep-walks his way through his first year of high school. What finally shakes him awake and out of his status as just an observer of life?
Author Info
Stephen Chbosky grew up in Pittsburgh, PA and graduated from USC's Filmic Writing Program. His first film, The Four Corners of Nowhere, won Best Narrative Feature honors at the Chicago Underground Film Festival. He lives in NY. The Perks of Being a Wallflower was his first novel and he is working on its screenplay.
Genre
YA coming-of-age
Curriculum Ties
would be excellent but probably too controversial for a Life Skills or English class
Booktalking Ideas
1. Charlie takes his sister to get an abortion.
2. Charlie goes over to his favorite teacher's home for lunch.
Reading/Interest Level
High School and College for both - would be inappropriate for under 14
Challenge Issues and Defense
Many, including homosexuality, sex, suicide, child sexual abuse, drugs
Sensitive portrayal of a shy and troubled teen. The author has received letters from teens who chose not to commit suicide after reading his book.
Why I Included This Book
Perfect book for our presentation on controversial YA literature as it is on the ALA's list of top 10 banned/challenged books. Highly recommended by the library staff where I work.
Pocket Books, NY
1999
213 pages
Plot Summary
Charlie is a brilliant, introverted, troubled high school freshman who is an observer of life, both at home and school. He is too passive and just lets things happen to him. He meets Patrick and Sam who are brother and sister and falls madly in love with Sam (the sister). but does nothing about it. He goes to parties with the siblings and experiments with drugs and sex but none of it seems to affect him until he has a breakdown and remembers what happened to him with a favorite aunt.
Critical Evaluation
Told in a series of letters that Charlie is writing to an unnamed person, this book has developed a cult following and I can see why. Charlie is sensitively portrayed but we don't know why he's so troubled until near the end of the book. There are lots of literary, music and movie references that made me want to read, hear and see all of them. This was a fast read and an honest depiction of the kinds of things that go on in high school. This was one of the best young adult books that I've read. The character of Charlie stays with you long after you've finished the book.
Reader's Annotation
14-year-old Charlie is brilliant but almost sleep-walks his way through his first year of high school. What finally shakes him awake and out of his status as just an observer of life?
Author Info
Stephen Chbosky grew up in Pittsburgh, PA and graduated from USC's Filmic Writing Program. His first film, The Four Corners of Nowhere, won Best Narrative Feature honors at the Chicago Underground Film Festival. He lives in NY. The Perks of Being a Wallflower was his first novel and he is working on its screenplay.
Genre
YA coming-of-age
Curriculum Ties
would be excellent but probably too controversial for a Life Skills or English class
Booktalking Ideas
1. Charlie takes his sister to get an abortion.
2. Charlie goes over to his favorite teacher's home for lunch.
Reading/Interest Level
High School and College for both - would be inappropriate for under 14
Challenge Issues and Defense
Many, including homosexuality, sex, suicide, child sexual abuse, drugs
Sensitive portrayal of a shy and troubled teen. The author has received letters from teens who chose not to commit suicide after reading his book.
Why I Included This Book
Perfect book for our presentation on controversial YA literature as it is on the ALA's list of top 10 banned/challenged books. Highly recommended by the library staff where I work.
Stoner & Spaz
ISBN: 0-7636-2150-1
Candlewick Press, Cambridge, MA
2002
169 pages
Plot Summary
16-year-old Ben Bancroft has cerebral palsy, lives with his over-protective grandmother (who picks out his overly-preppy clothes for him), loves movies, and is a loner at his high school because he thinks that everyone see him as a "monster" because he drags one leg behind him when he walks. Then he meets Colleen, the school's stoner girl, who teaches Ben about life while he teaches her about movies and how to have fun while sober.
Critical Evaluation
Ron Koertge did a great job with the character of Ben; he's funny, smart and self-deprecating to a fault. The dialogue between Ben and Colleen is especially well-written. This is a good book for teens to read to help them understand that someone with a physical disability is more than just "the kid in the wheelchair" - he's a kid with likes and dislikes -in other words, just another kid. I would love to read a sequel to see how Ben does in film school.
Reader's Annotation
16-year-old Ben Bancroft already has two strikes against him when it comes to being cool in high school; he has cerebral palsy and lives with his over-protective grandmother. But he thinks he has no friends because of his disability while, in reality, the other kids think he's unfriendly until he meets Colleen who breaks down his barriers.
Author Info
Ron Koertge got the inspiration for Stoner & Spaz because his wife (who works with physically disabled kids) told him about an especially funny kid and he had a former student who had gone through drug rehab - he thought it would be interesting to put the two together in a book.
He is a retired English teacher and movie buff who lives in South Pasadena in the house where the original movie Halloween was filmed.
Genre
YA coming-of-age for a boy with cerebral palsy
Curriculum Ties
Life Skills class
Booktalking Ideas
1. Ben finally starts talking to his fellow students while making a movie.
2. Ben takes Colleen to the movies.
Reading/Interest Level
Age 14 and up - would not be appropriate for younger children
Challenge Issues and Defense
Many including drug use, sex and cheating in school
Sensitive portrayal of a teen with disabilities
Many awards including Publishers Weekly Best Book of the Year, an ALA Quick Pick and
ALA Best Book for YA
Why I Included This Book
Highly recommended by the head librarian at my school.
We used it in our presentation on controversial YA literature.
Candlewick Press, Cambridge, MA
2002
169 pages
Plot Summary
16-year-old Ben Bancroft has cerebral palsy, lives with his over-protective grandmother (who picks out his overly-preppy clothes for him), loves movies, and is a loner at his high school because he thinks that everyone see him as a "monster" because he drags one leg behind him when he walks. Then he meets Colleen, the school's stoner girl, who teaches Ben about life while he teaches her about movies and how to have fun while sober.
Critical Evaluation
Ron Koertge did a great job with the character of Ben; he's funny, smart and self-deprecating to a fault. The dialogue between Ben and Colleen is especially well-written. This is a good book for teens to read to help them understand that someone with a physical disability is more than just "the kid in the wheelchair" - he's a kid with likes and dislikes -in other words, just another kid. I would love to read a sequel to see how Ben does in film school.
Reader's Annotation
16-year-old Ben Bancroft already has two strikes against him when it comes to being cool in high school; he has cerebral palsy and lives with his over-protective grandmother. But he thinks he has no friends because of his disability while, in reality, the other kids think he's unfriendly until he meets Colleen who breaks down his barriers.
Author Info
Ron Koertge got the inspiration for Stoner & Spaz because his wife (who works with physically disabled kids) told him about an especially funny kid and he had a former student who had gone through drug rehab - he thought it would be interesting to put the two together in a book.
He is a retired English teacher and movie buff who lives in South Pasadena in the house where the original movie Halloween was filmed.
Genre
YA coming-of-age for a boy with cerebral palsy
Curriculum Ties
Life Skills class
Booktalking Ideas
1. Ben finally starts talking to his fellow students while making a movie.
2. Ben takes Colleen to the movies.
Reading/Interest Level
Age 14 and up - would not be appropriate for younger children
Challenge Issues and Defense
Many including drug use, sex and cheating in school
Sensitive portrayal of a teen with disabilities
Many awards including Publishers Weekly Best Book of the Year, an ALA Quick Pick and
ALA Best Book for YA
Why I Included This Book
Highly recommended by the head librarian at my school.
We used it in our presentation on controversial YA literature.
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Hard Love by Ellen Wittlinger
ISBN: 978-0-689-84154-5
Originally published in 1999 (this edition Simon Pulse, NY 2008)
224 pages
Plot Summary
John has only one friend in high school and his home life is similarly lonely as he's been shuttled back and forth between his divorced distant parents. He doesn't understand why his mom won't even hug him - he thinks she must find him too unappealing to even touch. He only has his writing to sustain him and is excited to meet fellow zine writer, Marisol. He falls in love with her even though she told him upfront that she's a lesbian.
Critical Evaluation
This is a different take on star-crossed love, with the main character falling for someone who can never love him in the same way. The book also explores how divorce can devastate the kids, especially when they blame themselves. The book also plays with our perceptions of lesbians, from John thinking that Marisol would never want to go to the prom because she's a lesbian to her mom who tries too hard to accept and understand her. The book's not preachy in any way though and focuses on how communication is key in understanding one another.
Reader's Annotation
John's life is predictable and boring and he doesn't even know if he's gay or straight because he's never loved anyone until he meets fellow zine writer, Marisol. He falls hard for her even though she's a self-proclaimed Puerto Rican Cuban Yankee lesbian.
Author Info
Ellen Wittlinger is the critically acclaimed author of teen novels Blind Faith, Heart on My Sleeve and others. She received her MFA from the University of Iowa. A former children's librarian, she lives with her husband in Massachusetts.
Genre
Realistic LGBT YA novel
Curriculum Ties
Life Skills or a Writing class possibly
Booktalking Ideas
1. John (Gio) takes Marisol to the prom.
2. John goes away to Cape Cod with Marisol and his parents are frantic with worry.
Reading/Interest Level
High school for both
Challenge Issues and Defense
lesbian main character, teenage runaways
Realistic portrayal - nothing graphic
Printz Honor and Winner of the Lambda Literary Award
Why I Included This Book
We used it in our presentation of controversial YA literature and it was the winner of many awards. After reading Luna, I was interested in the portrayal of the lesbian writer in the book.
Originally published in 1999 (this edition Simon Pulse, NY 2008)
224 pages
Plot Summary
John has only one friend in high school and his home life is similarly lonely as he's been shuttled back and forth between his divorced distant parents. He doesn't understand why his mom won't even hug him - he thinks she must find him too unappealing to even touch. He only has his writing to sustain him and is excited to meet fellow zine writer, Marisol. He falls in love with her even though she told him upfront that she's a lesbian.
Critical Evaluation
This is a different take on star-crossed love, with the main character falling for someone who can never love him in the same way. The book also explores how divorce can devastate the kids, especially when they blame themselves. The book also plays with our perceptions of lesbians, from John thinking that Marisol would never want to go to the prom because she's a lesbian to her mom who tries too hard to accept and understand her. The book's not preachy in any way though and focuses on how communication is key in understanding one another.
Reader's Annotation
John's life is predictable and boring and he doesn't even know if he's gay or straight because he's never loved anyone until he meets fellow zine writer, Marisol. He falls hard for her even though she's a self-proclaimed Puerto Rican Cuban Yankee lesbian.
Author Info
Ellen Wittlinger is the critically acclaimed author of teen novels Blind Faith, Heart on My Sleeve and others. She received her MFA from the University of Iowa. A former children's librarian, she lives with her husband in Massachusetts.
Genre
Realistic LGBT YA novel
Curriculum Ties
Life Skills or a Writing class possibly
Booktalking Ideas
1. John (Gio) takes Marisol to the prom.
2. John goes away to Cape Cod with Marisol and his parents are frantic with worry.
Reading/Interest Level
High school for both
Challenge Issues and Defense
lesbian main character, teenage runaways
Realistic portrayal - nothing graphic
Printz Honor and Winner of the Lambda Literary Award
Why I Included This Book
We used it in our presentation of controversial YA literature and it was the winner of many awards. After reading Luna, I was interested in the portrayal of the lesbian writer in the book.
Sold by Patricia McCormick
ISBN: 978-078685172-0
Hyperion Paperbacks, NY
2006
263 pages
Plot Summary
13-year-old Lakshmi is like thousands of girls who live in poverty in the mountains of Nepal. She is absolutely under the control of the men in her life and, unfortunately her step-father has gambled away what little money they had. Lakshmi is sold (ostensibly to be a maid) to the "big city" and takes her first train ride into India. However, when she arrives at her new home, it is a brothel ruled by a sadistic madame. Lashmi remains strong, however, and when an opportunity presents itself, she escapes.
Critical Evaluation
Through the eyes of 13-year-old Lakshmi we see the horrors and sadness of the plight of young girls sold into sexual slavery. The story is told in a series of vignettes so it makes for fast reading. This book was hard to put down because, even though this particular story is fictional, it depicts the reality of life for so many poor girls around the world. This is an important story that we don't hear enough about - this book should be required reading in high school to get the word out of the plight of so many women.
Reader's Annotation
13-year-old Lakshmi leads a desperately poor but not unhappy life in the Nepalese mountains. Unfortunately her step-father gambles away what little money they have and Lakshmi is sold - she thinks - to be a maid in the big city - but instead she has been sold into sexual slavery.
Author Info
Patricia McCormick traveled to India and Nepal where she interviewed girls in Calcutta's red-light district and others who have been rescued from the sex trade.
She is also the bestselling author of Cut.
Genre
Realistic YA about the sex trade
Curriculum Ties
Women's studies - but should be required reading in high school.
Booktalking Ideas
1. Lakshmi goes on her first train ride and leaves her home in the mountains of Nepal.
2. The David Beckham boy teaches Lakshmi how to read Hindi and English.
Reading/Interest Level
High school to adult
Challenge Issues and Defense
sex trade, child prostitution
This is a story that needs to be told. In the Author's Note, she states that nearly 12,000 Nepali girls have been sold by their families into a life of prostitution in India.
and this was a National Book Award Finalist
Why I Included This Book
This was an ALA Top Ten Best Books for YA and it was used in our controversial YA literature presentation.
Hyperion Paperbacks, NY
2006
263 pages
Plot Summary
13-year-old Lakshmi is like thousands of girls who live in poverty in the mountains of Nepal. She is absolutely under the control of the men in her life and, unfortunately her step-father has gambled away what little money they had. Lakshmi is sold (ostensibly to be a maid) to the "big city" and takes her first train ride into India. However, when she arrives at her new home, it is a brothel ruled by a sadistic madame. Lashmi remains strong, however, and when an opportunity presents itself, she escapes.
Critical Evaluation
Through the eyes of 13-year-old Lakshmi we see the horrors and sadness of the plight of young girls sold into sexual slavery. The story is told in a series of vignettes so it makes for fast reading. This book was hard to put down because, even though this particular story is fictional, it depicts the reality of life for so many poor girls around the world. This is an important story that we don't hear enough about - this book should be required reading in high school to get the word out of the plight of so many women.
Reader's Annotation
13-year-old Lakshmi leads a desperately poor but not unhappy life in the Nepalese mountains. Unfortunately her step-father gambles away what little money they have and Lakshmi is sold - she thinks - to be a maid in the big city - but instead she has been sold into sexual slavery.
Author Info
Patricia McCormick traveled to India and Nepal where she interviewed girls in Calcutta's red-light district and others who have been rescued from the sex trade.
She is also the bestselling author of Cut.
Genre
Realistic YA about the sex trade
Curriculum Ties
Women's studies - but should be required reading in high school.
Booktalking Ideas
1. Lakshmi goes on her first train ride and leaves her home in the mountains of Nepal.
2. The David Beckham boy teaches Lakshmi how to read Hindi and English.
Reading/Interest Level
High school to adult
Challenge Issues and Defense
sex trade, child prostitution
This is a story that needs to be told. In the Author's Note, she states that nearly 12,000 Nepali girls have been sold by their families into a life of prostitution in India.
and this was a National Book Award Finalist
Why I Included This Book
This was an ALA Top Ten Best Books for YA and it was used in our controversial YA literature presentation.
Friday, November 27, 2009
The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton
ISBN: 978-0-140-38572-4
Speak, NY, 2003 (originally published by Viking, 1967
180 pages
Plot Summary
14-year-old Ponyboy Curtis is being raised by his two older brothers after their parents were killed in a car crash. They are members of the Greasers and they and the Socs (the other gang in town) have fought each other for years. Ponyboy wishes that everyone could just get along and not judge each other for the way they dress and wear their hair. After a fight turns deadly, everyone's lives are changed forever.
Critical Evaluation
This book reads like a Louis L'Amour Western for young adults, which I think is a good thing. It's hard to believe that the author was only a teenager herself when she wrote The Outsiders, but maybe that's why she was able to portray the character of Ponyboy so realistically.
Reader's Annotation
14-year-old Ponyboy Curtis only has his brothers and friends to depend on but a series of tragic eventsthreaten his security and the courts may take him away from the love of his brothers and the only home he has known.
Author's Info
The Outsiders, S.E. Hinton's first published book was started when she was 15 and published her first year in college. She became known as "The Voice of the Youth" but suffered a 3-year writer's block. Her other books include Rumble Fish, Tex and That Was Then, This is Now. She still lives in Oklahoma (the setting for The Outsiders) with her husband and son and enjoys writing, riding horses and taking classes at the university.
Genre
realistic YA novel about gangs and violence
Curriculum Ties
Required reading at many high schools
Booktalking Ideas
1. Ponyboy and Johnny run away and hole up in an abandoned church.
2. Dally, Johnny and Ponyboy go to the movies.
Reading/Interest Level
Middle School and High School for both
Challenge Issues and Defense
underage drinking, smoking and drug use and lots of violence
Tame compared to many of the newer YA novels - and - a classic
Why I Included This Book
THE classic YA novel - it holds up surprisingly well.
Best-selling YA novel ever. Still one of the most requested books (by teens) in high school libraries.
Speak, NY, 2003 (originally published by Viking, 1967
180 pages
Plot Summary
14-year-old Ponyboy Curtis is being raised by his two older brothers after their parents were killed in a car crash. They are members of the Greasers and they and the Socs (the other gang in town) have fought each other for years. Ponyboy wishes that everyone could just get along and not judge each other for the way they dress and wear their hair. After a fight turns deadly, everyone's lives are changed forever.
Critical Evaluation
This book reads like a Louis L'Amour Western for young adults, which I think is a good thing. It's hard to believe that the author was only a teenager herself when she wrote The Outsiders, but maybe that's why she was able to portray the character of Ponyboy so realistically.
Reader's Annotation
14-year-old Ponyboy Curtis only has his brothers and friends to depend on but a series of tragic eventsthreaten his security and the courts may take him away from the love of his brothers and the only home he has known.
Author's Info
The Outsiders, S.E. Hinton's first published book was started when she was 15 and published her first year in college. She became known as "The Voice of the Youth" but suffered a 3-year writer's block. Her other books include Rumble Fish, Tex and That Was Then, This is Now. She still lives in Oklahoma (the setting for The Outsiders) with her husband and son and enjoys writing, riding horses and taking classes at the university.
Genre
realistic YA novel about gangs and violence
Curriculum Ties
Required reading at many high schools
Booktalking Ideas
1. Ponyboy and Johnny run away and hole up in an abandoned church.
2. Dally, Johnny and Ponyboy go to the movies.
Reading/Interest Level
Middle School and High School for both
Challenge Issues and Defense
underage drinking, smoking and drug use and lots of violence
Tame compared to many of the newer YA novels - and - a classic
Why I Included This Book
THE classic YA novel - it holds up surprisingly well.
Best-selling YA novel ever. Still one of the most requested books (by teens) in high school libraries.
King Dork by Frank Portman
ISBN: 978-0-385-732918
Delacorte Press, NY
2006
325 pages
Plot Summary
High school sophomore Tom Henderson is considered a complete dork at his school. A shy, introverted kid, his only friend is Sam Hellerman and they have become friends through the years because of the alphabetical closeness of their last names (and having to constantly line up next to each other). However, they are smart and witty and are constantly starting rock bands with outrageous names and album covers. At a talent show at school, they unwittingly unmask the porn activities of their hated principal, Mr. Teone, possibly solve the mystery of Tom's dad's death (murder, suicide, accident or all three??) and become "cool" enough to sort of "get the girl."
Critical Evaluation
This book is smart, funny and full of band references that I didn't get but that teens would. Tom Henderson is every high school loser's hero for his self-deprecating humor. I found it interesting that his appearance is never discussed - is he chunky or skinny or ?? There are lots of music and literary references (I must read Brighton Rock now) that are fun and should appeal to well-read teens.
Reader's Annotation
Tom Henderson and his best (only) friend Sam Hellerman learn how to avoid as many pitfalls as possible as two of the biggest dorks at their high school. When their rock band plays at the school talent show (sort of a battle of the bands), they become known for bringing down the school principal and become maybe not cool but at least attain a certain social status that allows girls into their lives.
Author Info
Author Frank (also known as Dr. Frank) Portman is a singer/songwriter/guitarist for MTX (the Mr. T Experience), a punk band. He lives in the East Bay area of California. King Dork is his first novel.
Genre
YA coming-of-age
Curriculum Ties
could be a reading selection in high school because of all the literary references
Booktalking Ideas
1. Tom and Sam enter their band in the school's battle of the bands (that morphs into the "Festival of Lights")
2. When Tom is hospitalized after having his head smashed in by some of the "popular" goons at his high school, he is visited by Celeste Fletcher, one of the drama students.
Reading/Interest Level
high school - age 14 + ; not appropriate for younger
Challenge Issues and Defense
Lots of oral sex references, suicide, underage drinking and drug use, bullying
Rave reviews from other YA authors, including John Green
Realistic depiction of a social outcast at a public high school
Why I Included This Book
Well, for starters, the title intrigued me. I love books with geeky, smart, male protagonists and this one certainly fit the bill. Also, it was highly recommended by YA author John Green, and I love his books.
Delacorte Press, NY
2006
325 pages
Plot Summary
High school sophomore Tom Henderson is considered a complete dork at his school. A shy, introverted kid, his only friend is Sam Hellerman and they have become friends through the years because of the alphabetical closeness of their last names (and having to constantly line up next to each other). However, they are smart and witty and are constantly starting rock bands with outrageous names and album covers. At a talent show at school, they unwittingly unmask the porn activities of their hated principal, Mr. Teone, possibly solve the mystery of Tom's dad's death (murder, suicide, accident or all three??) and become "cool" enough to sort of "get the girl."
Critical Evaluation
This book is smart, funny and full of band references that I didn't get but that teens would. Tom Henderson is every high school loser's hero for his self-deprecating humor. I found it interesting that his appearance is never discussed - is he chunky or skinny or ?? There are lots of music and literary references (I must read Brighton Rock now) that are fun and should appeal to well-read teens.
Reader's Annotation
Tom Henderson and his best (only) friend Sam Hellerman learn how to avoid as many pitfalls as possible as two of the biggest dorks at their high school. When their rock band plays at the school talent show (sort of a battle of the bands), they become known for bringing down the school principal and become maybe not cool but at least attain a certain social status that allows girls into their lives.
Author Info
Author Frank (also known as Dr. Frank) Portman is a singer/songwriter/guitarist for MTX (the Mr. T Experience), a punk band. He lives in the East Bay area of California. King Dork is his first novel.
Genre
YA coming-of-age
Curriculum Ties
could be a reading selection in high school because of all the literary references
Booktalking Ideas
1. Tom and Sam enter their band in the school's battle of the bands (that morphs into the "Festival of Lights")
2. When Tom is hospitalized after having his head smashed in by some of the "popular" goons at his high school, he is visited by Celeste Fletcher, one of the drama students.
Reading/Interest Level
high school - age 14 + ; not appropriate for younger
Challenge Issues and Defense
Lots of oral sex references, suicide, underage drinking and drug use, bullying
Rave reviews from other YA authors, including John Green
Realistic depiction of a social outcast at a public high school
Why I Included This Book
Well, for starters, the title intrigued me. I love books with geeky, smart, male protagonists and this one certainly fit the bill. Also, it was highly recommended by YA author John Green, and I love his books.
Little Brother by Cory Doctorow
ISBN: 978-0-7653-1985-2
Tor Teen Book, NY
2008
365 pages
Plot Summary
17-year-old Marcus Yarrow and his 3 friends are held captive after a terrorist attack on the San Francisco Bay Bridge. They are accused of being terrorists themselves even though they were just in the wrong place at the wrong time. After his release Marcus finds that his home computer has been bugged so he sets up a system using Xboxes so that he can use his computer without the government's knowledge. He ends up with a whole community of "XNetters" who follow "Mikey's" lead.
Critical Evaluation
Cory Doctorow introduces us to a truly scary American government, one that doesn't trust its own citizens. I am sure, with his technology background, that all of the computer hacking and use of home-made devices, are explained correctly in the book - unfortunately I'm not technologically savvy enough to know this for sure.
Reader's Annotation
17-year-old Marcus Yarrow is a computer whiz who gets caught up in a terrorist attack and then is falsely accused by his own government. How can he get the word out that what the government is doing is simply abridging the rights of its own citizens and not making the world a safer place?
Author Info
Cory Doctorow is the coeditor of Boing Boing and the former European director of the Electronic Frontier Foundation. He was named one of the Web's 25 influencers by Forbes magazine.
Genre
YA science fiction
Curriculum Ties
American Government class
Booktalking Ideas
1. Marcus decides to ditch school and play Harajuku Fun Madness with his 3 best friends.
2. Marcus realizes that Van has always liked him.
Reading/Interest Level
High school and college
Challenge Issues and Defense
sex scene and the hacker culture
raises a lot of issues that parents can talk to their kids about including privacy, government security and intrusion
Why I Included This Book
Required reading - but I'm glad that it was included because I think it's the only science fiction
book in my list
Tor Teen Book, NY
2008
365 pages
Plot Summary
17-year-old Marcus Yarrow and his 3 friends are held captive after a terrorist attack on the San Francisco Bay Bridge. They are accused of being terrorists themselves even though they were just in the wrong place at the wrong time. After his release Marcus finds that his home computer has been bugged so he sets up a system using Xboxes so that he can use his computer without the government's knowledge. He ends up with a whole community of "XNetters" who follow "Mikey's" lead.
Critical Evaluation
Cory Doctorow introduces us to a truly scary American government, one that doesn't trust its own citizens. I am sure, with his technology background, that all of the computer hacking and use of home-made devices, are explained correctly in the book - unfortunately I'm not technologically savvy enough to know this for sure.
Reader's Annotation
17-year-old Marcus Yarrow is a computer whiz who gets caught up in a terrorist attack and then is falsely accused by his own government. How can he get the word out that what the government is doing is simply abridging the rights of its own citizens and not making the world a safer place?
Author Info
Cory Doctorow is the coeditor of Boing Boing and the former European director of the Electronic Frontier Foundation. He was named one of the Web's 25 influencers by Forbes magazine.
Genre
YA science fiction
Curriculum Ties
American Government class
Booktalking Ideas
1. Marcus decides to ditch school and play Harajuku Fun Madness with his 3 best friends.
2. Marcus realizes that Van has always liked him.
Reading/Interest Level
High school and college
Challenge Issues and Defense
sex scene and the hacker culture
raises a lot of issues that parents can talk to their kids about including privacy, government security and intrusion
Why I Included This Book
Required reading - but I'm glad that it was included because I think it's the only science fiction
book in my list
Geography Club by Brent Hartinger
ISBN: 0-06-001223-4
HarperTempest, NY
2003 (first paperback edition, 2004)
226 pages
Plot Summary
Gay teen Russel finally comes out to his best friend, Min, only to find out that she is bi-sexual herself. They decide to start a school club but to hide that it's a club for gay teens, they call it the Geography Club. Others, both gay and straight, join the club and Russel has his first love affair.
Critical Evaluation
This semi-autobiographical novel realistically describes what life must be like for a closeted gay teen in high school. Russel, the main character, is especially well-drawn and elicits empathy even when he doesn't behave very nicely.
Reader's Annotation
Who would think that the Geography Club is actually a cover for a group of gay and bi-sexual high school students?
Author Info
Author Brent Hartinger started Oasis, a support group for gay and lesbian young people in Tacoma. He now lives near Seattle with his partner, Michael Jensen and is also a playwright. His new book is called The Last Chance Texaco.
Genre
Realistic LG YA novel
Curriculum Ties
This book could be a good discussion starter in a Life Skills class.
Booktalking Ideas
1. Russel goes on a date with Trish.
2. Russel agrees to meet his chat room buddy at the local park.
Reading/Interest Level
High school for both
Challenge Issues and Defense
Main character is a gay teen who agrees to meet an online buddy at a park
Realistic portrayal of gay/lesbian/bisexual teens could help other gay teens feel like they're not alone.
Excellent reviews from the Horn Book, Kirkus Reviews, School Library Journal and ALA Booklist
Why I Included This Book
Buzz about this book led us to use the book in our controversial YA literature presentation
HarperTempest, NY
2003 (first paperback edition, 2004)
226 pages
Plot Summary
Gay teen Russel finally comes out to his best friend, Min, only to find out that she is bi-sexual herself. They decide to start a school club but to hide that it's a club for gay teens, they call it the Geography Club. Others, both gay and straight, join the club and Russel has his first love affair.
Critical Evaluation
This semi-autobiographical novel realistically describes what life must be like for a closeted gay teen in high school. Russel, the main character, is especially well-drawn and elicits empathy even when he doesn't behave very nicely.
Reader's Annotation
Who would think that the Geography Club is actually a cover for a group of gay and bi-sexual high school students?
Author Info
Author Brent Hartinger started Oasis, a support group for gay and lesbian young people in Tacoma. He now lives near Seattle with his partner, Michael Jensen and is also a playwright. His new book is called The Last Chance Texaco.
Genre
Realistic LG YA novel
Curriculum Ties
This book could be a good discussion starter in a Life Skills class.
Booktalking Ideas
1. Russel goes on a date with Trish.
2. Russel agrees to meet his chat room buddy at the local park.
Reading/Interest Level
High school for both
Challenge Issues and Defense
Main character is a gay teen who agrees to meet an online buddy at a park
Realistic portrayal of gay/lesbian/bisexual teens could help other gay teens feel like they're not alone.
Excellent reviews from the Horn Book, Kirkus Reviews, School Library Journal and ALA Booklist
Why I Included This Book
Buzz about this book led us to use the book in our controversial YA literature presentation
Weetzie Bat by Francesca Lia Block
ISBN: 978-0-06-073625-5
Harper Collins, NY
1989
109 pages
Plot Summary
Weetzie Bat and her best friend Dirk love each other dearly but have a most unconventional household. Weetzie Bat wants all her wishes to come true. She yearns for true love for Dirk and for herself and she wants a baby.
Critical Evaluation
Weetzie Bat and the cast of characters in this book are most unusual (beginning with their names) but there's an undercurrent of sadness when AIDS invades their world of love. This book is an original, creative modern day fairy tale.
Reader's Annotation
Weetzie Bat is disappointed because when she asks the genie to grant her three wishes, she thinks that only two of them have come true and that she will be left without true love in her life.
Author's Information
Francesca Lia Block is the best-selling author of many award-winning books, including I Was a Teenage Fairy. She was named one of Buzz magazine's "100 Coolest People in LA."
Genre
Modern-day fantasy/fairy tale
No Curriculum Ties
Booktalking Ideas
1. Dirk tells Weetzie Bat his secret.
2. Weetzie Bat asks the genie to grant her 3 wishes.
3. Weetzie Bat meets her Secret Lover Man.
Reading/Interest Level
High school through adult
Challenge Issues and Defense
Drug and alcohol use, gay lovers
Rave reviews, ALA Best Book for YA, ALA Best Book for Reluctant YA Readers
Why I Included This Book
The LA Times Book Review called this "one of the most original books of the last 10 years." One of our head librarian's favority books and authors.
Harper Collins, NY
1989
109 pages
Plot Summary
Weetzie Bat and her best friend Dirk love each other dearly but have a most unconventional household. Weetzie Bat wants all her wishes to come true. She yearns for true love for Dirk and for herself and she wants a baby.
Critical Evaluation
Weetzie Bat and the cast of characters in this book are most unusual (beginning with their names) but there's an undercurrent of sadness when AIDS invades their world of love. This book is an original, creative modern day fairy tale.
Reader's Annotation
Weetzie Bat is disappointed because when she asks the genie to grant her three wishes, she thinks that only two of them have come true and that she will be left without true love in her life.
Author's Information
Francesca Lia Block is the best-selling author of many award-winning books, including I Was a Teenage Fairy. She was named one of Buzz magazine's "100 Coolest People in LA."
Genre
Modern-day fantasy/fairy tale
No Curriculum Ties
Booktalking Ideas
1. Dirk tells Weetzie Bat his secret.
2. Weetzie Bat asks the genie to grant her 3 wishes.
3. Weetzie Bat meets her Secret Lover Man.
Reading/Interest Level
High school through adult
Challenge Issues and Defense
Drug and alcohol use, gay lovers
Rave reviews, ALA Best Book for YA, ALA Best Book for Reluctant YA Readers
Why I Included This Book
The LA Times Book Review called this "one of the most original books of the last 10 years." One of our head librarian's favority books and authors.
The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian
ISBN: 978-0-316-01368-0
Little, Brown & Co., NY
2007
230 pages
Plot Summary
Junior, born with a host of medical problems, asks to attend the "white" high school 22 miles away from his home on the Spokane Indian reservation. Going to a good school will give him the opportunity to attend college and escape the poverty of the reservation, but he doesn't fit in at the new school and his best friend considers him a traitor.
Critical Evaluation
Cartoons are interspersed throughout this book giving it a very cool vibe. It's a fast read and another good choice for reluctant readers. Some critics felt the book was unrealistic in its portrayal of multiple tragedies in Junior's home town and his unlikely basketball stardom but it's not supposed to be realistic - the book is sad and funny almost at the same time and very well-written.
Reader's Annotation
Junior, a budding cartoonist, is a Native American who lives on a reservation in the Northwest. As the best student at his poor reservation school, he decides to leave the reservation and attend the good "white" school that will give him the chance for a college education.
Author Information
Author Sherman Alexie lives in Seattle and has been named one of GRANTA's Best YA Novelists. The Boston Globe calls him "an important voice in American literature." This book was his first book for YA and is loosely based on his own experiences.
Genre
Native American coming-of-age story told with a cartoonist's twist
Curriculum Ties
on some high school reading lists
Booktalking Ideas
1. Junior takes Penelope to the Winter Formal with $5 in his pocket.
2. Junior befriends Gordy, the genius white boy at his new school.
Reading/ Interest Level
High school
Challenge Issues and Defense
masturbation scene, lots of alcohol
While there have been some challenges (the book was pulled from a high school required reading list in Crook County, Oregon), the author feels that the book is positive about the world we live in and shows people from different politics and groups becoming friends.
National Book Award winner
Why I Included This Book
award-winning book and a NY Times bestseller
Little, Brown & Co., NY
2007
230 pages
Plot Summary
Junior, born with a host of medical problems, asks to attend the "white" high school 22 miles away from his home on the Spokane Indian reservation. Going to a good school will give him the opportunity to attend college and escape the poverty of the reservation, but he doesn't fit in at the new school and his best friend considers him a traitor.
Critical Evaluation
Cartoons are interspersed throughout this book giving it a very cool vibe. It's a fast read and another good choice for reluctant readers. Some critics felt the book was unrealistic in its portrayal of multiple tragedies in Junior's home town and his unlikely basketball stardom but it's not supposed to be realistic - the book is sad and funny almost at the same time and very well-written.
Reader's Annotation
Junior, a budding cartoonist, is a Native American who lives on a reservation in the Northwest. As the best student at his poor reservation school, he decides to leave the reservation and attend the good "white" school that will give him the chance for a college education.
Author Information
Author Sherman Alexie lives in Seattle and has been named one of GRANTA's Best YA Novelists. The Boston Globe calls him "an important voice in American literature." This book was his first book for YA and is loosely based on his own experiences.
Genre
Native American coming-of-age story told with a cartoonist's twist
Curriculum Ties
on some high school reading lists
Booktalking Ideas
1. Junior takes Penelope to the Winter Formal with $5 in his pocket.
2. Junior befriends Gordy, the genius white boy at his new school.
Reading/ Interest Level
High school
Challenge Issues and Defense
masturbation scene, lots of alcohol
While there have been some challenges (the book was pulled from a high school required reading list in Crook County, Oregon), the author feels that the book is positive about the world we live in and shows people from different politics and groups becoming friends.
National Book Award winner
Why I Included This Book
award-winning book and a NY Times bestseller
Go Ask Alice by Anonymous
ISBN: 978-0-689-81785-4
Simon & Schuster, NY, 1971 (this edition Simon Pulse, 1998)
185 pages
Plot Summary
A year in the life of a 15-year-old girl based on her actual diary. In the beginning she is a typical, enthusiastic teen excited about an upcoming move and starting a new diet, but her life descends into a hell of drug use, hallucinations and mental hospitals.
Critical Evaluation
Fast, powerfully scary and sad read that is a little dated with 1970s jargon. However, this book should be required reading for anyone who thinks they can "handle" drug use. An excellent book for reluctant readers.
Reader's Annotation
The 15-year-old girl who wrote this diary starts out as a typical teen but her life spirals out of control with hallucinations after heavy drug use.
Author Information
None known
Genre
true story written in diary-form
Curriculum Ties
Life Skills class, high school English reading list
Booktalking Ideas
1. Alice and her friend Chris go to San Francisco. They think they can "kick drugs" and start over there.
2. Alice ends up in the mental hospital after hallucinating and hurting herself badly while she's supposed to be babysitting.
Reading/Interest Level
Middle school students could read this book but the heavy drug use portrayed makes it more suitable for high school students. High interest level for parents of teens also.
Challenge Issues and Defense
Heavy drug use and sexual situations
Realistic and scary portrayal of drug use has been credited with keeping many teenagers away from drugs
Why I Included This Book
This book was one of the most requested when I worked in the library at a public high school. According to the Boston Globe, this is "a book that all teenagers and parents of teenagers should really read."
Simon & Schuster, NY, 1971 (this edition Simon Pulse, 1998)
185 pages
Plot Summary
A year in the life of a 15-year-old girl based on her actual diary. In the beginning she is a typical, enthusiastic teen excited about an upcoming move and starting a new diet, but her life descends into a hell of drug use, hallucinations and mental hospitals.
Critical Evaluation
Fast, powerfully scary and sad read that is a little dated with 1970s jargon. However, this book should be required reading for anyone who thinks they can "handle" drug use. An excellent book for reluctant readers.
Reader's Annotation
The 15-year-old girl who wrote this diary starts out as a typical teen but her life spirals out of control with hallucinations after heavy drug use.
Author Information
None known
Genre
true story written in diary-form
Curriculum Ties
Life Skills class, high school English reading list
Booktalking Ideas
1. Alice and her friend Chris go to San Francisco. They think they can "kick drugs" and start over there.
2. Alice ends up in the mental hospital after hallucinating and hurting herself badly while she's supposed to be babysitting.
Reading/Interest Level
Middle school students could read this book but the heavy drug use portrayed makes it more suitable for high school students. High interest level for parents of teens also.
Challenge Issues and Defense
Heavy drug use and sexual situations
Realistic and scary portrayal of drug use has been credited with keeping many teenagers away from drugs
Why I Included This Book
This book was one of the most requested when I worked in the library at a public high school. According to the Boston Globe, this is "a book that all teenagers and parents of teenagers should really read."
Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson
ISBN: 978-0-141-31088-6
Puffin Books, NY
1999
198 pages
Plot Summary
Melina Sordino goes to a party the August before her first year of high school. She drinks beer and then is raped by a boy who will be a senior at the same school. She calls 911 but hangs up before she tells anyone what has happened to her. She is ostracized at school for breaking up the party and spends most of her freshman year silent and virtually friendless.
Critical Evaluation
Spot-on depiction of a high school outcast, this is a powerful book that also manages to make fun of the absurdity of much of high school. While Melinda's pain is evident, she still makes it through her lonely freshman year one day at a time using her silence and her art as shields. Excellent book for reluctant readers.
Reader's Annotation
Melinda starts high school rejected by her middle school friends when her call for help broke up a summer party. Little do they know what really happened to her at that party and why she made the call.
Author Information
Laurie Halse Anderson grew up in Syracuse, NY, and now lives in Pennsylvania with her husband and two daughters. She is an award-winning author of several YA novels (including the historical fiction book Fever 1793) and picture books. She hit a home run with her Speak, her first novel.
Genre
Realistic YA novel
Curriculum Ties
Life Skills class, high school English reading list
Booktalking Ideas
1. Melinda actually talks about her art project with Mr. Freeman
2. Melinda runs into "It" - Andy Evans, her tormentor, on her way to school. She runs away from him and ditches school that day.
Reading/ Interest Level
The reading level could be middle school but the interest level (and intensity of the book) would make it more appropriate for high school
Challenge Issues and Defense
teen rape scene
Printz Honor book, National Book Award Finalist, Edgar Allan Poe Award Finalist
Why I Included This Book
All the librarians at my school said this was a "must read." We used the book in our presentation on controversial YA literature.
Puffin Books, NY
1999
198 pages
Plot Summary
Melina Sordino goes to a party the August before her first year of high school. She drinks beer and then is raped by a boy who will be a senior at the same school. She calls 911 but hangs up before she tells anyone what has happened to her. She is ostracized at school for breaking up the party and spends most of her freshman year silent and virtually friendless.
Critical Evaluation
Spot-on depiction of a high school outcast, this is a powerful book that also manages to make fun of the absurdity of much of high school. While Melinda's pain is evident, she still makes it through her lonely freshman year one day at a time using her silence and her art as shields. Excellent book for reluctant readers.
Reader's Annotation
Melinda starts high school rejected by her middle school friends when her call for help broke up a summer party. Little do they know what really happened to her at that party and why she made the call.
Author Information
Laurie Halse Anderson grew up in Syracuse, NY, and now lives in Pennsylvania with her husband and two daughters. She is an award-winning author of several YA novels (including the historical fiction book Fever 1793) and picture books. She hit a home run with her Speak, her first novel.
Genre
Realistic YA novel
Curriculum Ties
Life Skills class, high school English reading list
Booktalking Ideas
1. Melinda actually talks about her art project with Mr. Freeman
2. Melinda runs into "It" - Andy Evans, her tormentor, on her way to school. She runs away from him and ditches school that day.
Reading/ Interest Level
The reading level could be middle school but the interest level (and intensity of the book) would make it more appropriate for high school
Challenge Issues and Defense
teen rape scene
Printz Honor book, National Book Award Finalist, Edgar Allan Poe Award Finalist
Why I Included This Book
All the librarians at my school said this was a "must read." We used the book in our presentation on controversial YA literature.
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Saint Iggy by K.L. Going
ISBN: 978-0-15-206248-4
Harcourt, Inc., Orlando, FL
2006
257 pages
Plot Summary
Iggy, an inner city teen from the projects, has just been suspended from high school. He has no one to turn to as both parents are drug addicts, and his slightly older "mentor," Mo, is also a druggie and more messed up than he is. Iggy wants to do something good in his life but his good intentions have disastrous consequences.
Critical Evaluation
The main character is both believable and yet not so believable. What I mean is that Iggy is a white inner city kid with no options - and I guess I'm saying that he would have been more believable if he'd had brown or black skin. And, even though he really is no saint, he still seems almost naive for a kid who has grown up in the projects. Other than that, he is a great heroic anti-hero and this would be an excellent book for reluctant readers.
Reader's Annotation
It's almost Christmas and Iggy has been suspended from school even though he's not a bad kid. What can he do to show everyone that he wants to do something great for the world?
Author Information
K.L. Going is also the author of the Printz Honor book, Fat Kid Rules the World.
Genre
Realistic YA fiction
Curriculum Ties
Could be on high school reading lists
Booktalking Ideas
1. Iggy sees Moe's home for the first time.
2. Moe's mother befriends Iggy.
Reading /Interest Level
The reading level could be younger but age 14 and up
Challenge Issues and Defense
Lots of drug use and a sexual situation
Realistic portrayal of inner city life
Publisher's Weekly Best Book of the Year, a New York Public Library Book for the Teen Age,
ALA Best Book for Young Adults and other rave reviews
Why I Included This Book
It was recommended by the middle school librarian at our school and has received numerous awards.
Harcourt, Inc., Orlando, FL
2006
257 pages
Plot Summary
Iggy, an inner city teen from the projects, has just been suspended from high school. He has no one to turn to as both parents are drug addicts, and his slightly older "mentor," Mo, is also a druggie and more messed up than he is. Iggy wants to do something good in his life but his good intentions have disastrous consequences.
Critical Evaluation
The main character is both believable and yet not so believable. What I mean is that Iggy is a white inner city kid with no options - and I guess I'm saying that he would have been more believable if he'd had brown or black skin. And, even though he really is no saint, he still seems almost naive for a kid who has grown up in the projects. Other than that, he is a great heroic anti-hero and this would be an excellent book for reluctant readers.
Reader's Annotation
It's almost Christmas and Iggy has been suspended from school even though he's not a bad kid. What can he do to show everyone that he wants to do something great for the world?
Author Information
K.L. Going is also the author of the Printz Honor book, Fat Kid Rules the World.
Genre
Realistic YA fiction
Curriculum Ties
Could be on high school reading lists
Booktalking Ideas
1. Iggy sees Moe's home for the first time.
2. Moe's mother befriends Iggy.
Reading /Interest Level
The reading level could be younger but age 14 and up
Challenge Issues and Defense
Lots of drug use and a sexual situation
Realistic portrayal of inner city life
Publisher's Weekly Best Book of the Year, a New York Public Library Book for the Teen Age,
ALA Best Book for Young Adults and other rave reviews
Why I Included This Book
It was recommended by the middle school librarian at our school and has received numerous awards.
Monster by Walter Dean Myers
ISBN: 978-0-06028077-2
Harper Collins, NY
1999
281 pages
Plot Summary
16-year-old Steve Harmon is in jail while awaiting his trial as an accomplice to a murder during a robbery gone bad. He is not a bad kid - has not been in trouble with the law before but it is unclear if he is completely innocent in this case. One thing is clear - the prosecutor is trying to portray him as unsympathetically as possible - she calls him a "monster."
Critical Evaluation
Exciting, fast read - excellent for reluctant readers. Steve is scared and the reader definitely feels his fear. The book is written as the screenplay of Steve's life with a mixture of fonts and illustrations and photographs - it could appear jumbled but it works.
Reader's Annotation
Is 16-year-old Steve Harmon the "monster" the prosecutor says he is or is he just a poor inner city kid who happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time?
Author Information
Walter Dean Myers is an award-winning writer of fiction, non-fiction and poetry for young people. He is a 5-time winner of the Coretta Scott King Award and has had 2 Newbery Honor books (Scorpion and Somewhere in the Darkness).
He grew up in Harlem and now lives in Jersey City with his family.
Monster was illustrated by his son, Christopher Myers.
Genre
YA novel told in a first-person narrative as a screenplay/diary
Curriculum Ties
Monster is on high school reading lists
Booktalking Ideas
1. Steve and the influence his favorite teacher has on his life.
2. Steve's mother visits him in jail.
Reading Level/Interest Level
Middle School/ Middle-Senior High School
Challenge Issues and Defense
Subject matter (teen accused of murder), language
Printz Award, Coretta Scott King King Honor, National Book Award finalist
Why I Included This Book
Very well-known book and author and it was included in our controversial YA presentation.
Harper Collins, NY
1999
281 pages
Plot Summary
16-year-old Steve Harmon is in jail while awaiting his trial as an accomplice to a murder during a robbery gone bad. He is not a bad kid - has not been in trouble with the law before but it is unclear if he is completely innocent in this case. One thing is clear - the prosecutor is trying to portray him as unsympathetically as possible - she calls him a "monster."
Critical Evaluation
Exciting, fast read - excellent for reluctant readers. Steve is scared and the reader definitely feels his fear. The book is written as the screenplay of Steve's life with a mixture of fonts and illustrations and photographs - it could appear jumbled but it works.
Reader's Annotation
Is 16-year-old Steve Harmon the "monster" the prosecutor says he is or is he just a poor inner city kid who happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time?
Author Information
Walter Dean Myers is an award-winning writer of fiction, non-fiction and poetry for young people. He is a 5-time winner of the Coretta Scott King Award and has had 2 Newbery Honor books (Scorpion and Somewhere in the Darkness).
He grew up in Harlem and now lives in Jersey City with his family.
Monster was illustrated by his son, Christopher Myers.
Genre
YA novel told in a first-person narrative as a screenplay/diary
Curriculum Ties
Monster is on high school reading lists
Booktalking Ideas
1. Steve and the influence his favorite teacher has on his life.
2. Steve's mother visits him in jail.
Reading Level/Interest Level
Middle School/ Middle-Senior High School
Challenge Issues and Defense
Subject matter (teen accused of murder), language
Printz Award, Coretta Scott King King Honor, National Book Award finalist
Why I Included This Book
Very well-known book and author and it was included in our controversial YA presentation.
Spanking Shakespeare by Jake Wizner
ISBN: 978-0-375-84085-2
Random House, NY
2007
Plot Summary
High school senior Shakespeare Shapiro is a bundle of neuroses. He worries about everything including his unusual first name, getting into college, finding a girlfriend and being injured or killed in a plane or car crash. He finally comes to terms with his first name and realizes that maybe it has helped him develop his writing skills. Along the way he learns about himself and even finds a girlfriend.
Critical Evaluation
Jake Wizner's first novel is funny, irreverent and will resonate with anyone who struggled through the social pitfalls of high school. At times the book is laugh-out-loud funny but main character Shakespeare Shapiro also learns about life and himself. He becomes less self-centered and realizes that others have REAL problems to overcome.
Reader's Annotation
17-year-old Shakespeare Shapiro learns to use his unusual name to advantage as, with wit and self-deprecation, he learns to write through his pain of being a socially awkward high school senior.
Author Information
Jake Wizner's first novel appears to be somewhat autobiographical. He teaches 8th-grade English and history and lives in NYC with his wife and two daughters. Spanking Shakespeare is to be made into a movie and will be released under Paramount's Nickelodeon movie label. Jake's new book has just been released and it is called Castration Celebration.
Genre
coming-of-age
Curriculum Ties
High school or college writing class
Booktalking Ideas
1. Shakespeare goes to a baseball game with his father. He's afraid that he'll be hit by a baseball and his fears come true.
2. Shakespeare goes to the prom, first by himself, and then stops by his date's home in the projects.
Reading Level/Interest
Ages 15-18 for both, but especially high school seniors and college freshmen
Challenge Issues and Defense
Lots of sexual situations, some bad language
Book written to help socially immature/awkward students get through high school
Publisher's Weekly starred review - "Exceptionally funny and smart."
Why I Included This Book
This book was highly recommended by my boss, the head librarian at our school.
Random House, NY
2007
Plot Summary
High school senior Shakespeare Shapiro is a bundle of neuroses. He worries about everything including his unusual first name, getting into college, finding a girlfriend and being injured or killed in a plane or car crash. He finally comes to terms with his first name and realizes that maybe it has helped him develop his writing skills. Along the way he learns about himself and even finds a girlfriend.
Critical Evaluation
Jake Wizner's first novel is funny, irreverent and will resonate with anyone who struggled through the social pitfalls of high school. At times the book is laugh-out-loud funny but main character Shakespeare Shapiro also learns about life and himself. He becomes less self-centered and realizes that others have REAL problems to overcome.
Reader's Annotation
17-year-old Shakespeare Shapiro learns to use his unusual name to advantage as, with wit and self-deprecation, he learns to write through his pain of being a socially awkward high school senior.
Author Information
Jake Wizner's first novel appears to be somewhat autobiographical. He teaches 8th-grade English and history and lives in NYC with his wife and two daughters. Spanking Shakespeare is to be made into a movie and will be released under Paramount's Nickelodeon movie label. Jake's new book has just been released and it is called Castration Celebration.
Genre
coming-of-age
Curriculum Ties
High school or college writing class
Booktalking Ideas
1. Shakespeare goes to a baseball game with his father. He's afraid that he'll be hit by a baseball and his fears come true.
2. Shakespeare goes to the prom, first by himself, and then stops by his date's home in the projects.
Reading Level/Interest
Ages 15-18 for both, but especially high school seniors and college freshmen
Challenge Issues and Defense
Lots of sexual situations, some bad language
Book written to help socially immature/awkward students get through high school
Publisher's Weekly starred review - "Exceptionally funny and smart."
Why I Included This Book
This book was highly recommended by my boss, the head librarian at our school.
Luna by Julie Anne Peters
ISBN: 978-0-316-01127-3
Little, Brown & Co., NY
2004 (first paperback edition 2006)
248 pages
Plot Summary
Regan and Liam are brother and sister and students at the same high school. Liam is brilliant and a computer genius but harbors a deep secret. Regan is the only one who knows that "he" is actually a girl trapped in a boy's body. Her brother borrows her clothes and is secretly "Luna" until he finally decides to "shed his wings" and reveal himself as a girl.
Critical Evaluation
This is a sensitive portrayal of a transgendered teen told from his sister's point-of-view. This approach lets the reader empathize both with Liam/Luna and with Regan, his sister who loves him but worries about her own social status at school if Liam reveals himself as a girl.
Reader's Annotation
Life as a high school senior is hard enough but Liam is finding it harder and harder to maintain the lie that is his life as a boy.
Author Information
Julie Anne Peters has written several critically acclaimed YA novels including Define "Normal," and Keeping You a Secret. She lives in Colorado with her partner, Sherri Leggett.
Genre
LGBT YA novel
Curriculum Ties
This book could be used in a Life Skills class to help explain transgender issues.
Booktalking Ideas
1. Liam decides to tell his good friend Aly the truth.
2. Liam and Regan go shopping with Liam dressed as Luna.
3. Chris and Regan as lab partners.
Reading/Interest Level
15-18 year-olds for both
Challenge Issues
transgendered main character, underage drinking and drug use, talk about sex
National Book Award finalist
Why I Included This Book
This book was required reading for the class. I hadn't heard of the book before but I'm glad I read it because this was the first book I've read about a transgendered teen.
Little, Brown & Co., NY
2004 (first paperback edition 2006)
248 pages
Plot Summary
Regan and Liam are brother and sister and students at the same high school. Liam is brilliant and a computer genius but harbors a deep secret. Regan is the only one who knows that "he" is actually a girl trapped in a boy's body. Her brother borrows her clothes and is secretly "Luna" until he finally decides to "shed his wings" and reveal himself as a girl.
Critical Evaluation
This is a sensitive portrayal of a transgendered teen told from his sister's point-of-view. This approach lets the reader empathize both with Liam/Luna and with Regan, his sister who loves him but worries about her own social status at school if Liam reveals himself as a girl.
Reader's Annotation
Life as a high school senior is hard enough but Liam is finding it harder and harder to maintain the lie that is his life as a boy.
Author Information
Julie Anne Peters has written several critically acclaimed YA novels including Define "Normal," and Keeping You a Secret. She lives in Colorado with her partner, Sherri Leggett.
Genre
LGBT YA novel
Curriculum Ties
This book could be used in a Life Skills class to help explain transgender issues.
Booktalking Ideas
1. Liam decides to tell his good friend Aly the truth.
2. Liam and Regan go shopping with Liam dressed as Luna.
3. Chris and Regan as lab partners.
Reading/Interest Level
15-18 year-olds for both
Challenge Issues
transgendered main character, underage drinking and drug use, talk about sex
National Book Award finalist
Why I Included This Book
This book was required reading for the class. I hadn't heard of the book before but I'm glad I read it because this was the first book I've read about a transgendered teen.
To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
Originally published by J.B. Lippincott Co., Philadelphia, 1960.
ISBN for the DVD version of the 1962 movie: 0-7832-2585-7
Plot Summary
Scout is a 6-year-old tomboy in the hot summer of 1932 in Depression-era Alabama. She lives with her lawyer father, Atticus Finch and her 10-year-old brother Jem (their mother died when Scout was 2). When Atticus agrees to defend a black man who is accused of raping a white woman, their world turns upside down. Atticus defends Tom Robinson to the best of his ability but, in this time and place, the outcome of the trial is a foregone conclusion. Atticus wins the respect and admiration of his kids, the black community and those who can see beyond the racism of the time.
Critical Evaluation
I'm going to evaluate the movie and not the book as I haven't read the book lately. Both are classics. Often I'm disappointed by the movie after reading the book but the filmmakers did everything right this time. The movie won 3 Academy Awards and should have won Best Movie. Gregory Peck did win the Oscar for Best Actor for his powerful portrayal of Atticus Finch. His passionate defense of Tom Robinson is considered one of the best courtroom scenes ever filmed. The book and the movie should be required for high school students.
Moviegoer's Annotation
We see the town and its people through the young eyes of Scout. At first, she and her brother think they are off to a carefree summer (despite the poverty of the Depression) but they become caught up in the biggest trial their Southern town has ever seen when their father agrees to defend a black man - and not just any black man - but a strong, young black man accused of raping a white woman.
The Author
Harper Lee wrote this Pulitzer-prize winning novel when she was a young woman and her life was never the same. Scout is her young self and Atticus is loosely based on her lawyer father. Her childhood neighbor and lifelong friend was Truman Capote. This was her first and only novel. She lives a reclusive life today in Alabama.
Genre
A somewhat coming-of-age novel (although the children are younger than teens) - some consider To Kill a Mockingbird to be one of the first YA novels.
Curriculum Ties
Required reading on many high school English reading lists. Can also be used in American history classes.
Booktalking Ideas
The courthouse scene is a classic - without giving too much of the plot away I would describe the scene where Atticus has Mr. Ewell write his name - with his left hand!
Reading/ Interest Level
The reading level would be high school age. The interest level would be high school through adults. Everyone should read this book and watch this movie!
Challenge Issues
Racism - both the book and movie use the "n" word
Pulitzer prize-winning book and Oscar-winning movie - both well-deserved classics
Why I Included This Movie
It should be obvious that I feel that everyone should read the books and watch the movie. I jumped at the chance to watch the movie again!
ISBN for the DVD version of the 1962 movie: 0-7832-2585-7
Plot Summary
Scout is a 6-year-old tomboy in the hot summer of 1932 in Depression-era Alabama. She lives with her lawyer father, Atticus Finch and her 10-year-old brother Jem (their mother died when Scout was 2). When Atticus agrees to defend a black man who is accused of raping a white woman, their world turns upside down. Atticus defends Tom Robinson to the best of his ability but, in this time and place, the outcome of the trial is a foregone conclusion. Atticus wins the respect and admiration of his kids, the black community and those who can see beyond the racism of the time.
Critical Evaluation
I'm going to evaluate the movie and not the book as I haven't read the book lately. Both are classics. Often I'm disappointed by the movie after reading the book but the filmmakers did everything right this time. The movie won 3 Academy Awards and should have won Best Movie. Gregory Peck did win the Oscar for Best Actor for his powerful portrayal of Atticus Finch. His passionate defense of Tom Robinson is considered one of the best courtroom scenes ever filmed. The book and the movie should be required for high school students.
Moviegoer's Annotation
We see the town and its people through the young eyes of Scout. At first, she and her brother think they are off to a carefree summer (despite the poverty of the Depression) but they become caught up in the biggest trial their Southern town has ever seen when their father agrees to defend a black man - and not just any black man - but a strong, young black man accused of raping a white woman.
The Author
Harper Lee wrote this Pulitzer-prize winning novel when she was a young woman and her life was never the same. Scout is her young self and Atticus is loosely based on her lawyer father. Her childhood neighbor and lifelong friend was Truman Capote. This was her first and only novel. She lives a reclusive life today in Alabama.
Genre
A somewhat coming-of-age novel (although the children are younger than teens) - some consider To Kill a Mockingbird to be one of the first YA novels.
Curriculum Ties
Required reading on many high school English reading lists. Can also be used in American history classes.
Booktalking Ideas
The courthouse scene is a classic - without giving too much of the plot away I would describe the scene where Atticus has Mr. Ewell write his name - with his left hand!
Reading/ Interest Level
The reading level would be high school age. The interest level would be high school through adults. Everyone should read this book and watch this movie!
Challenge Issues
Racism - both the book and movie use the "n" word
Pulitzer prize-winning book and Oscar-winning movie - both well-deserved classics
Why I Included This Movie
It should be obvious that I feel that everyone should read the books and watch the movie. I jumped at the chance to watch the movie again!
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger
ISBN: 978-0-316-769532
Publisher: Little, Brown and Co., Boston
1951
277 pages
Plot Summary
Holden Caulfield has been kicked out of his prep school (not the first time) and decides that he wants to have some fun in NYC (his home town) before his parents find out. His adventure turns into a few days with Holden in a drunken, depressed state, during which time he manages to upset his remaining few friends (as he doesn't like many people) before ending up in the mental ward of a hospital.
Critical Evaluation
The classic, coming-of-age story for teenage boys has a young curmudgeon for its protagonist. Holden Caulfiend has been the inspiration and hero for a couple of generations of troubled youth but he's really just a depressed teen who is still mourning his dead brother. I had a hard time getting past the dated 1950's jargon and understanding Holden's angst because he just is not a nice guy.
Reader's Annotation
Holden Caulfield has just gotten kicked out of his tony prep school. He's depressed, thinks everyone around is a "phony" and doesn't realize what he's missing (in school and in life) until it's almost too late.
Author's Information
J.D. Salinger's masterpiece is probably somewhat autobiographical in that the reclusive author didn't like most people either. A native New Yorker, he attended public schools except for a military academy in Pennsylvania (the scene of Holden's prep school). He wrote Catcher in the Rye over a period of ten years.
Genre
The classic coming-of-age novel
Curriculum Ties
Required reading in many high school and college English classes
Booktalking Ideas
Holden Caulfield takes his date, Sally, to a play with the Lunts to impress her. However, at intermission they run into a friend of hers, a boy who attends an Ivy League school. Holden, of course, thinks he's a phony (because he's jealous). This would be an interesting scene to booktalk.
Reading/Interest Level
For both I would say not younger than sophomore year in high school.
Challenge Issues and Defense
Lots of underage smoking, drinking and swearing.
A classic!
Why I Included This Book
This book is mentioned so often - I'm surprised that I'd never read it before. So many YA books reference Holden Caulfield that I would have been remiss had I NOT included this book.
Publisher: Little, Brown and Co., Boston
1951
277 pages
Plot Summary
Holden Caulfield has been kicked out of his prep school (not the first time) and decides that he wants to have some fun in NYC (his home town) before his parents find out. His adventure turns into a few days with Holden in a drunken, depressed state, during which time he manages to upset his remaining few friends (as he doesn't like many people) before ending up in the mental ward of a hospital.
Critical Evaluation
The classic, coming-of-age story for teenage boys has a young curmudgeon for its protagonist. Holden Caulfiend has been the inspiration and hero for a couple of generations of troubled youth but he's really just a depressed teen who is still mourning his dead brother. I had a hard time getting past the dated 1950's jargon and understanding Holden's angst because he just is not a nice guy.
Reader's Annotation
Holden Caulfield has just gotten kicked out of his tony prep school. He's depressed, thinks everyone around is a "phony" and doesn't realize what he's missing (in school and in life) until it's almost too late.
Author's Information
J.D. Salinger's masterpiece is probably somewhat autobiographical in that the reclusive author didn't like most people either. A native New Yorker, he attended public schools except for a military academy in Pennsylvania (the scene of Holden's prep school). He wrote Catcher in the Rye over a period of ten years.
Genre
The classic coming-of-age novel
Curriculum Ties
Required reading in many high school and college English classes
Booktalking Ideas
Holden Caulfield takes his date, Sally, to a play with the Lunts to impress her. However, at intermission they run into a friend of hers, a boy who attends an Ivy League school. Holden, of course, thinks he's a phony (because he's jealous). This would be an interesting scene to booktalk.
Reading/Interest Level
For both I would say not younger than sophomore year in high school.
Challenge Issues and Defense
Lots of underage smoking, drinking and swearing.
A classic!
Why I Included This Book
This book is mentioned so often - I'm surprised that I'd never read it before. So many YA books reference Holden Caulfield that I would have been remiss had I NOT included this book.
Chinese Handcuffs by Chris Crutcher
ISBN: 0-440-20837-8
Dell Publishing, NY
1989
220 pages
Plot Summary
High school junior Dillon Hemingway is haunted by the suicide of his drug-addicted older brother Preston. He is also half in love with his brother's girlfriend Stacey and with star basketball player, Jennifer Lawless. All three of them must confront their darkest secrets. Along the way Dillon learns how to get through life and high school without his older brother.
Critical Evaluation
This is a powerful book that shows how suicide affects those left behind. It also confronts the horrors of childhood sex abuse and how such abuse can scar children for life. The author knows his subject matter well as he's a child and family therapist.
Reader's Annotation
Dillon Hemingway, the best athlete in the junior class, competes in triathlons rather than in sports at his high school.
Author Information
Chris Crutcher has been awarded the National Council of Teachers of English/ALAN Award for Outstanding Contributions to YA literature and has written many outstanding YA books. He is also a child and family therapist in Spokane, Washington.
Genre
YA novel, coming-of-age, mental health, child sex abuse, suicide
Curriculum Ties
Life Skills class
Booktalking Ideas
Dillon's running battle with his high school principal, Mr. Caldwell, who feels that he is selfish for not using his athletic talents for the good of the school. His very good relationship with Coach Sherman, the girls' basketball coach, could also be discussed.
Reading Level/ Interest Age
Middle School/ Grades 9 - 12
Challenge Issues and How They Could Be Defended
Hot-button topics like suicide, drug use and childhood sexual abuse
The author depicts troubled teens realistically but helps point out signs of child abuse and suicide.
Why I Included This Book
This is an older, controversial title by a well-respected author. I kept hearing about this book so I thought that I should read it.
Dell Publishing, NY
1989
220 pages
Plot Summary
High school junior Dillon Hemingway is haunted by the suicide of his drug-addicted older brother Preston. He is also half in love with his brother's girlfriend Stacey and with star basketball player, Jennifer Lawless. All three of them must confront their darkest secrets. Along the way Dillon learns how to get through life and high school without his older brother.
Critical Evaluation
This is a powerful book that shows how suicide affects those left behind. It also confronts the horrors of childhood sex abuse and how such abuse can scar children for life. The author knows his subject matter well as he's a child and family therapist.
Reader's Annotation
Dillon Hemingway, the best athlete in the junior class, competes in triathlons rather than in sports at his high school.
Author Information
Chris Crutcher has been awarded the National Council of Teachers of English/ALAN Award for Outstanding Contributions to YA literature and has written many outstanding YA books. He is also a child and family therapist in Spokane, Washington.
Genre
YA novel, coming-of-age, mental health, child sex abuse, suicide
Curriculum Ties
Life Skills class
Booktalking Ideas
Dillon's running battle with his high school principal, Mr. Caldwell, who feels that he is selfish for not using his athletic talents for the good of the school. His very good relationship with Coach Sherman, the girls' basketball coach, could also be discussed.
Reading Level/ Interest Age
Middle School/ Grades 9 - 12
Challenge Issues and How They Could Be Defended
Hot-button topics like suicide, drug use and childhood sexual abuse
The author depicts troubled teens realistically but helps point out signs of child abuse and suicide.
Why I Included This Book
This is an older, controversial title by a well-respected author. I kept hearing about this book so I thought that I should read it.
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