Ship Breaker

Author: Paolo Bacigalupi

Publisher: Little, Brown Books         

Year: 2010

ISBN: 9780316056212

In this post-apocalyptic adventure the main character, Nailer, is a light crew worker stripping copper wire from the inside of stranded old, oil tankers. His days are filled with back breaking work, lack of food, and the almost impossible task of evading his abusive father. In this violent world where most people will do anything for money and “family” are those that watch your back, Nailer is just trying to survive. When a super storm leaves a “swank” ship wrecked upon the beach a lone survivor will live or die depending on the choices Nailer makes. Will he let his friend Pima slit the girl’s throat so they can claim salvage or will he help the beautiful, rich, girl find her people and perhaps change Nailer’s fortunes forever? Complex characters with multilayered personalities, untenable choices, and futuristic dog men make Bacigalupi’s gritty look into the future of Earth a compelling read that you won’t put down until the very end. 

Awards/Reviews:

Exciting and sometimes violent, this book will appeal to older fans of Scott Westerfeld's "Uglies" series (S & S) and similar action-oriented science fiction. School Library Journal

Starred Review: Vivid, brutal, and thematically rich, this captivating title is sure to win teen fans for the award-winning Bacigalupi. Booklist

Connections:

Encourage students to use descriptions of the characters in the story to become “sketch artists”. Have them create impressions of characters who have distinctive physical descriptions (scars, tattoos, piercings, clothing, hair, facial features, etc.: Nailer, Richard Lopez, Pima, Moon Girl, Nita, Tool and the half-men, Lucky Strike, etc.

Sadna opens the last chapter of the book by reminding Nailer that “killing always costs.” Elaborate on this quote for characters such as Nailer, Sloth, Richard Lopez, Sadna, Lucky Strike, and Tool. 

Where the Mountain Meets the Moon

Author: Grace Lin

Publisher: Little and Brown

Year: 2009

ISBN: 9780316114271

Plot Summary:

A young girl named Minli, lives with her parents at the foot of Fruitless Mountain near the Jade River. Desperately poor and barely able to keep food on the table Minli’s father tells her tales to pass the time and make their evenings easier. Minli’s mother, angry and disappointed at their lot in life, thinks that he fills her head full of nonsense. When Minli’s father tells her the story of the Old Man of the Moon and his ability to answer any question, Minli decides to find him and ask how to improve her family’s life. Throughout her journey she finds excitement and danger. She meets new friends, gains wisdom and realizes where her true fortune lies while her parents learn valuable lessons at home.

Critical Analysis:

Lin’s insertion of Chinese folktales within the larger story of Minli’s exciting adventure cleverly enhances Minli’s journey and makes this fast paced fantasy especially rich and meaningful. Each of the folktales is incorporated into the lessons Minli is learning about friendship, family, love, and contentment. The occasional full-page illustrations contain intricate detail and vibrant colors that add a richness and depth to this story while Lin’s portrayal of Minli’s lively spirit and strength of character make her a heroine worth reading about.

Awards/Reviews:

The author's writing is elegant, and her full-color illustrations are stunning. School Library Journal

Starred review: Children will embrace this accessible, timeless story about the evil of greed and the joy of gratitude. Booklist

Bets Children’s Books of the Year, 2010; Bank Street College of Education; United States

John Newbery Medal, 2010 Honor Book United States

Young Reader’s Choice Award, 2012, Nominee Junior United States

Connections:

Find other Chinese Folktales and compare them with the book Where the Mountain Meets the Moon

Create your own illustrations for your favorite part of the story. Use collage materials rather than pen and ink, or paper and paint.

Write Chinese characters for mountain, moon, fish, and rice.

 

Who Am I, How Do I Fit?

American Born Chinese

Author: Gene Luen Yang

Publisher: First Second Books, Roaring Book Press

Year: 2006

ISBN: 9781596432086

With a distinctive style and bright colors Yang weaves an intricate tapestry of Chinese American life through the eyes of several characters. Using the familiar Chinese folktale of the Monkey King, the subtle racism of fellow classmates and the exaggerated stereotypical behavior of a distant cousin, Yang tells the story of flawed but familiar characters. The foibles, failings and challenges in the lives of each of the characters tell of the journey to acceptance, friendship, and self awareness that all people go through regardless of where they come from or who they may be.  A surprise twist at the end of the book reveals to the reader that although we may come from different places and cultures we are also very much the same. We all need to learn who we are, what we stand for, and how to become comfortable in our own skin. This award winning graphic novel is a well written and thought provoking and yet often humorous examination of the serious issues of racism, friendship and self acceptance.

Award/s:

National Book Award, 2006 Finalist Young People’s Literature United States

Michael L. Pintz Award, 2007 Winner United States

Cybil Award, 2006 Winner Graphic Novels Ages 13 and Up United States

As you read you see the connection of all the characters who fight their way out of the boxes designed for them by others. The contemporary stories and the fable come together in terms of plot and theme as the characters enter each others’ stories, revealing and transforming themselves as the tales merge. Children’s Literature, 2006

Yang’s narrative builds to an unforgettable and dazzling series of revelations as the three storylines surprisingly converge in a book that is eye-opening and provocative, pushing the boundaries of comfort for readers as it exposes racism from its most subtle to most overt. Cooperative Children’s Book Center Choices, 2007

Connections:

Have students draw their own biographical comics

Visit Author Website: http://humblecomics.com/

Teaching Guide: http://www.kennedy-center.org/education/pwtv/studyguides/GeneYang.pdf

Suggested Readings:

The Arrival by Shaun Tan

Re-Gifters by Mike Carey

Grandfather’s Journey by Allen Say

There's Something Inside So Strong It Flies Forever

 Elijah of Buxton

Author: Christopher Paul Curtis

Publisher: Scholastic Press, NY

Year: 2007

ISBN: 9780439023443

Plot:

Elijah Freeman is 11 years old. He is the first child born free in Buxton, Canada; a settlement of runaway slaves. He once threw up on Fredrick Douglas and he is afraid of just about everything. His parents tell him he must get over his “fra-gile” ways and learn some sense.  As far as Elijah is concerned it makes perfect sense to run from hoop snakes and ride a mule instead of a horse because it is closer to the ground. It’s just plain easier to avoid flying hooves on the way down.  For Elijah, becoming less “fra-gile” is about the hardest work he has ever had to do especially when your folks don’t seem to notice the progress you’ve made. Growing up sure is confusing to a boy struggling to understand adults. Then one day tragedy strikes. The money Mr. Leroy was saving to buy his family’s freedom is stolen all because Elijah didn’t tell what he thought he knew. Elijah’s determination to make it right sends him on a journey to America and he risks his life to help his friend. What he sees there will change his life forever.

Critical Analysis:

This is a poignant story told in the first person narrative. It resonates with readers of Elijah’s age and yet allows the older reader to sympathize with this very human little boy. Humorous interludes intermixed with vivid details told in the language of a first generation free child make this an irresistible read that will have the reader laughing, crying and raging from one minute to the next. Curtis paints a picture of slavery and freedom through the eyes of an eleven year old boy that allow the reader to experience the injustice of a practice that holds men and women in bondage. Powerfully well written.  Elijah of Buxton is an outstanding read for all ages.

Award/s:

Starred Review Booklist

John Newbery Medal, 2008 Honor Book United States

Book of the Year Award for Children, 2008 Winner Canada

Best Book for Kids and Teens, 2008 Canadian Children’s Book Centre; Starred Selection; Canada

Connections:

Visit the following sites to discover more about the Underground Railroad.

http://www.scholastic.com/teachers/lesson-plan/elijah-buxton-discussion-guide

http://www.historiclewiston.org/freedomcrossingwebcam.html

http://wned.org/AM/UGRR/default.asp

Send for these activity books so students can learn about the Underground Railroad while they earn their Junior Ranger Badges.

http://www.nps.gov/subjects/ugrr/education/upload/Junior-Ranger-Activity-Booklet.pdf

Montana Here She Comes!

Hattie Big Sky

Author: Kirby Larson

Publisher: DeLacorte Press

Year: 2006

ISBN: 9780385733137

Plot:

Year 1917

Hattie has never had a home of her own. Both of her parents are long dead.  She has been passed from relative to relative like last years’ hand me down clothes. Hattie is the Here-and-There girl seemingly destined to serve at everyone’s whim.  Until the day a letter arrived in the mail and changed her life forever. An unknown uncle has left her his homestead claim along with a trunk full of memories, a mean and ornery cow and steadfast horse named Plug. Determined to create a life for herself and eager to prove that she belongs somewhere, Hattie plunges into homestead life in Eastern Montana. Backbreaking work, heartfelt friendship, and hard lessons learned of sorrow and pain, between friends and enemies, patriotism and hatred are woven throughout this story set during the days of WWI. Intertwined within this skillfully crafted tale are personal letters to her longtime friend Charlie who is somewhere in France fighting the enemy while Hattie is learning life’s difficult lessons at home.

Critical Analysis:

Careful research into homestead records and journals lends Larson’s story an authentic, true to life feel. This is enhanced by the figurative language and authentic first person narrative that entices the reader into Hattie’s life. The letters to Charlie that are interspersed throughout the book  and the newspaper articles Hattie writes to earn extra money give the reader added insight into Hattie’s hope, dream, and struggles making this a powerfully written novel made more so by the knowledge that it is loosely based on Larson’s family history. Well written and deeply moving.

Award/s:

Best Children’s Books of the Year, 2007: Banks Street College of Education; United States

Starred Book Review, Booklist, Sept. 1, 2006  

YALSA Best Books for Young Adults, 2007; American Library Association; United States

Connections:

Here is the link to an excellent teaching resource for Hattie Big Sky. It contains some insightful questions, related books and information about the author Kirby Larson.

http://www.lesliepreddy.com/yhba/08-09/Middle/HattieBigSky-Scharbrough.pdf

Hattie wrote letters to her friend Charlie while he was away at war. Have your students write letters to soldiers overseas or get well cards for those at the local VA hospital.

Have students create a diorama of their favorite character in the book.

The Great Hunger

Title: Nory Ryan’s Song

Author: Patricia Reilly Giff

Publisher: Random House

Place: New York, New York

Year: 2000

ISBN: 9780307538987

Plot Summary:   

English landlords tax the land her family owned for generations. They take what they want when they want and no Irish dare stand in their way. Folks get by on what they can. If they are lucky they own a pig or cow. They can always rely on the potato crops to feed hungry bellies until now. The potatoes are rotting in the ground and folks are starving.  With her da gone fishing to make the rent money and her older sister off to America to start a new life 12 year old Nory must try to find something for her family to eat. Is she strong enough to keep hope alive as she struggles to scavenge what food she can wherever she can? Will her family survive until they can all be together again? Will her dream of the family being together in America become a reality? Patricia Reilly Giff’s riveting story will keep you enthralled until the very end.

Critical Analysis:

Giff’s glossary of terms adds clarity to the text while her letter to the reader ties this work to modern times and lends a personal touch to this poignantly written historical fiction. Accurate without overwhelming the reader with dry dates and facts, Giff weaves a true to history tale with believable characters, realistic plot, and the timeless ideals of strength of character, unending love, and unfailing hope.  Giff’s style draws the reader skillfully into Nory’s world and allows one to feel her struggle with hunger, fear, and anger. She skillfully weaves enough authentic language into the text as to lend the work historical authenticity without making the text too difficult for the young reader. A marvelous read!

Reviews:

"Giff meticulously re-creates the Great Hunger as she traces a 19th-century Irish girl's struggle to survive," PW wrote. Ages 8-12. (Sept.) Publisher’s Weekly

Golden Kite Award, 2001, Honor Book Fiction United States

Parent’s Choice Award, 2000, Gold Fiction United States

Star Review August 2000 School Library Journal

Star Review June 15, 2000 Kirkus Review

Star Book Review September 15, 2000 American Library Association; United States

Connections:

Research and create a family tree

Read The Irish Dresser: A Story of Hope During The Great Hunger by Cynthia G. Neale. Compare and contrast with Nory Ryan’s Song

Don't Call Me Abe

 The Lincolns: A Scrapbook Loot at Abraham and Mary

Author: Candace Fleming

Publisher: Schwartz & Wade Books

Year: 2008

ISBN: 9780375936180

Abraham Lincoln detested being called Abe. Mary Lincoln declared in 1830 that she was going to grow up and marry a president. Abraham grew a beard at the suggestion of an eleven-year-old girl in 1860. In 1861 Mary sought to go against protocol by insisting on planning all White House social events herself.  These are just a few of the interesting facts that are found in Flemings’ scrapbook about the lives of Abraham and Mary Lincoln.

Written in a journal style format with Old Times American typeface that makes it look something like an old time newspaper, this book contains a plethora of photographs, snippets of personal letters as well as informational inserts about this presidential couples’ children, pets, and life before the White House.  Personal recollections of friends, acquaintances, and family give this book an interesting and personal touch while the timeline at the front of the book and the extensive author notes at the back give further factual information about not only Abraham and Mary but their children and the events of the time.  An alphabetical index enables readers to find specific information without reading the entire text.

The author purposely concentrates on the personal aspects of the Lincolns rather than the political thus making this the perfect book for those reluctant young adult readers with enough photographs, letters, and original artwork to give the book a Guinness Book of Records feel that is irresistible. It contains enough information on politics, the Civil War and slavery to make it a reliable resource for reports and projects without the feel of a textbook.  It is all together an interesting and appealing look into the lives of two of the most famous people in America’s history.

Reviews/Awards:

Starred reviews

Boston Globe-Horned Book Award for Non-fiction

Presented in period typefaces, the boxed bits of text, sidebars, and numerous running heads and subheads add detail. From portraits to pets, the book contains a wide variety of graphics, including written and visual primary documents that enrich every spread. Notes, resources, and source notes are exemplary. It's hard to imagine a more engaging or well-told biography of the Lincolns. School Library Journal

Using the same innovative scrapbook format employed in Ben Franklin’s Almanac (2003) and Our Eleanor (2005), Fleming offers another standout biographical title, this time twining accounts of two lives—Abraham and Mary Todd Lincoln—into one fascinating whole. Booklist Starred Review

The visuals range from the essential to the mundane—portraits, maps, battlefield scenes, political cartoons, dress patterns, a stovepipe hat and measurements for a pair of boots—and, along with clear writing and thematic organization, leave readers “feeling as if you have just visited old friends.” Redressing a wrong committed by many histories for young readers, Mary Lincoln is portrayed here as a multidimensional woman of intelligence and social conscience, and the issue of slavery is clearly and concisely handled. Kirkus Reviews

Connections:

Read the following books about Abraham Lincoln. Compare and contrast the information from each.

Lincoln: A Photobiography by Russell Freedman

The Silent Witness: A True Story of the Civil War by Robin Friedman

Lincoln Through the Lens: How Photography Revealed and Shaped an Extraordinary Life by Martin W. Sandler

Have student groups create a journal or scrapbook of the current President and First Lady. 

The Girl That Time Forgot?

 Claudette Colvin: Twice Toward Justice

Author: Phillip Hoose

Publisher: Melanie Kroupa Books Farrar Straus Giroux

ISBN: 9780374313227

Jim Crow was not a real person but a character in minstrel shows that made fun of African-Americans. If there was only one chair in the waiting room an African American could not sit in it until all the white people did. Claudette Colvin was first arrested at the age of 15 for refusing to give up her seat on the bus. This happened before the incident with Rosa Parks and yet many do not know her name or the roll she played in the Civil Rights Movement. “Browder vs. Gayle changed the relationships of blacks and whites in America and the world. Yet few people know about the case and even fewer know about the plaintiffs” (77, Hoose).  

Chapters filled with personal interviews and relevant facts are made all the more riveting with photographs of people, places, and newspaper clippings detailing the beginning of the end of the “Jim Crow” era. Inserts of pertinent information and personal recollections add to the appeal of this book about the road to true freedom. Twice Toward Justice is well written, informative, as well as interesting.  Bibliographical information leads the reader to additional resources while the authors’ notes add further insight into the lives of the people contained within the pages. It reads almost like a novel and I absolutely couldn’t put it down until I had read it from cover to cover.

Reviews and Awards:

Newbery Honor Book 2010

The Robert F. Sibert Honor Book

National Book Award Winner 2009

The text is supplemented with black-and-white photos, reproductions of period newspapers and documents, and sidebars. While virtually all students know Rosa Parks's story, this well-written and engaging book will introduce them to a teen who also fought for racial justice and give them a new perspective on the era, making it an outstanding choice for most collections. School Library Journal

 This inspiring title shows the incredible difference that a single young person can make, even as it demonstrates the multitude of interconnected lives that create and sustain a political movement. Thorough chapter notes and suggestions for further reading close this title, which will find an avid readership beyond the classroom. Booklist

The sequence of events unfolds clearly, with its large cast of characters distinctly delineated. Period photographs and reprints of newspaper articles effectively evoke the tenor of the times. Kirkus Review

Connections:

During class discussion brainstorm groups or individuals today, that face challenges or injustices related to their civil rights. On chart paper record the list of individuals or groups. Students will select a topic from the list to write a Five Paragraph Essay. Topics could include Native Americans, Hispanics, Muslims, Senior Citizens, etc. Information about writing the essay can be found on the Internet.

Create a timeline of the Civil Right Movement that includes the life of Claudette Colvin and other famous persons of the time. 

Shake, Rattle, and.....

 Earthquakes

Author: Sally M. Walker

Publisher: Lerner Classroom

Year: 2007

ISBN: 9780822579946

Plot Summary:

Love waves often cause the most damage to buildings. Body waves either move like a slinky being pulled across a tabletop or wiggle like a rope that has one end tied to a tree while the other end is shaken up and down or side to side.  The Modified Mercalli Intensity Scale describes the intensity (amount of damage) caused by these waves. No, we’re not talking about the ocean in this wonderfully descriptive and comprehensive book written by Sally M. Walker.

Walker uses actual photographs and personal accounts to add personal interest and authenticity to this fact filled book about earthquakes. The index makes it easy for students to glean important information from the well written and informative text while graphs, charts, and illustrations further explain pertinent information in an easily understood format. The logical sequencing leads the reader from the why, what, where and how in an orderly and succinct manner while the glossary of terms explains unfamiliar terminology.

Critical Analysis:

The 2007 version of the 1996 book is updated with more current photos and information. The additional section called Be a Word Detective is at the beginning of the book to encourage children to find pertinent terms while the glossary at the back of the book gives added tools for comprehension. The note to adults discusses the best way to gain the most out of the reading experience by encouraging adults to ask questions in order to ensure comprehension, become a vocabulary detective by searching for the words found in the glossary and using the index to review facts. The learn more about earthquakes page offers other books to read and websites to access that are age appropriate and informative. 

Review Excerpts:

A clearly written text and powerful full-color photographs make this a fascinating overview.This book is informative enough for reports, yet readable and visually appealing to browsers. A good glossary and index are appended. Eunice Weech, M. L. King Elementary School, Urbana, IL School Library Journal

Connections:

Read the book then access the websites for further information. Create a poster to compare and contrast the information that was learned from the websites and additional books.

Create a simple seismograph and demonstrate how it takes readings by simulating an earthquake.  You can do this by having the children walk, jump, run, or jog around the room. Observe the different readings that coincide with the different paces.