Over the past semester, the books I chose to read to fulfill "Blog Assignment Part I" and "Blog Assignment Part II" are as follows: Informational Books 1. One Proud Penny by Randy Siegel Biography/Autobiography 2. She Persisted by Chelsea Clinton, Illustrated by Alexandra Boiger Picture Books/Easy Readers 3. The Book with No Pictures by B. J. Novak 4. Dragons Love Tacos by Adam Rubin, Illustrated by Daniel Salmieri 5. School's First Day of School by Adam Rex, Illustrated by Christian Robinson 6. Penny the Mouse series by Kevin Henkes [reader] Realistic Fiction 7. Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli Christian 8. The Rainbow Fish by Marcus Pfister, Translated by J. Alison James Mystery/Suspense 9. A Series of Unfortunate Events series by Lemony Snicket 10. The Magic Misfits by Neil Patrick Harris, Illustrated by Lissy Marlin & Kyle Hinton Multicultural & International 11. The Sandwich Swap by Rania Al-Abdullah & Kelly DiPucchio, Illustrated by Tricia Tusa Romance & Poetry 12. The Stinky Cheese Man and Other Fairly Stupid Tales by Jon Scieszka 13. Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell Fantasy 14. Arlo Finch in the Valley of Fire by John August 15. Wishtree by Katherine Applegate Graphic Novels 16. Lunch Lady: and the Cyborg Substitute by Jarrett J. Krosoczka 17. Zita the Spacegirl by Ben Hatke Texas Bluebonnet Award 18. Game Changers: The Story of Venus and Serena Williams by Lisa Cline-Ransome 19. The Boo-Boos that Changed the World: A True Story About an Accidental Invention (Really!) by Barry Wittenstein Caldecott Medal Winners 20. Hello Lighthouse by Sophie Blackall 21. Wolf in the Snow by Matthew Cordell Newbery Medal Winners 22. Merci Suarez Changes Gears by Meg Medina 23. Hello, Universe by Erin Entrada Kelly Lone Star Award 24. Ghost Boys by Jewell Parker Rhodes 25. Nevermoor I: Trials of Morrigan Crow by Jessica Townsend Pura Belpre Award 26. Poet X by Elizabeth Acevedo Coretta Scott King Award 27. The Stuff of Stars by Marion Dane Bauer LGBTQ+ 28. The Great Big Book of Families by Mary Hoffman SciFi 29. Waste of Space by Stuart Gibbs Horror 30. Lord of the Flies by William Golding Historical Fiction 31. Under the Ramadan Moon by Sylvia Whitman
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Image Figure 1. Cover Image of Merci Suarez Changes Gears from Amazon Evaluation of Book Smells of citrus and saltwater will flood readers' noses as they read the story of Merci, a sixth grade girl with a close-nit family that is trying to figure out her new roles in family and school as an older, middle school student. Using a strong setting, relatable, well-rounded characters, and unexpected insights, Meg Medina has created a stirring piece of literature that every reader that has gone through the trials of middle school will strongly connect to. Reading Merci Suarez Changes Gears will be a delight for all readers' senses. Medina has created a strong setting in which readers can not only picture but feel transported into. As walls of South Florida heat are so aptly described, so are the sights and smells of Las Casitas, the close-nit family dwellings of Merci and her extended family. "Their house smells like garlic and onions and cinnamon. The sound of Abuela's novelas drifts across the yard at night. Lolo's shoes are always by the kitchen door" (Medina, 2018, p. 209). Middle school is tough enough without feeling like an insider and constantly needing to care for your cousins and grandfather. Readers will witness Merci's transformation throughout her sixth grade year, navigating new relationships at school and changing relationships with family. In addition to her growth as a character, several other characters will experience growth and have many facets of their lives depicted in the work as well. Whether its Roli finishing out his senior year and transitioning to college, Tia Ines being a caring mother and learning to love again, or Lolo dealing with his personal loss daily and wanting to keep his relationships intact, Medina does not cease to produce well-rounded characters with intriguing and unique plot lines that readers will want to follow. Alzheimer's is an unfortunate yet common disease in the lives of many families. As Merci continues to grow throughout her sixth grade year, she begins to notice distressing changes in her grandfather, Lolo. Throughout the work, Medina works to reveal unexpected insights through Merci that will touch all readers who have experienced the ramifications of this disease firsthand in caring for a loved one. "'Some days I miss Lolo, too', I say, 'even though he's still here. Strange, right?'" (Medina, 2018, p. 332). Dealing with daily loss and viewing Lolo's situation from various family members' perspectives, Merci allows readers to connect at a personal level with her emotions and how she is dealing with the situation. Response It is a treasure when you connect with a book so profoundly at a personal level. For myself, Merci Suarez Changes Gears, is a piece of literature that brings back many memories of childhood, both happy and difficult. Growing up on the border of South Texas, the culture and setting that Merci lives in daily in South Florida, is nearly identical. Spanish influences, biking through citrus groves, and the beach around the corner were all major components of my life in the Rio Grande Valley. Also similar to Merci, my grandmother who I grew up with around the corner, was diagnosed with Alzheimer's while I was in middle school. For anyone who has experienced having a loved one diagnosed with Alzheimer's, they will truly connect to this work. My grandmother was my go-to person growing up, having to watch her forget aspects of our relationship or myself entirely, was like saying goodbye everyday despite her presence. As one of the older children in the family, you begin to see things from others' perspectives as Merci does in the story, wanting to protect the younger children, feeling for the spouse's loss, and mourning for your parents' grief of losing their own parent. From a literature perspective, Merci Suarez Changes Gears, is a uniquely transformative piece of literature that will place readers squarely in the shoes of its characters and is delightfully entertaining. Bringing awareness to a prevalent disease that many experience daily in some aspect of their lives, Merci Suarez Changes Gears is an inspiring piece of literature that builds connections and increases understanding. I highly encourage middle and high school librarians to include this piece in their collections and additionally showcase it to their students and teachers as a must-read selection. Conclusion Helping out around the house, participating in school activities, and family dynamics are all familiar activities that any sixth grade student could relate to. However, as if middle school isn't hard enough, Merci must navigate all the obstacles and perils of middle school on top of a new evolution in her family's dynamics, her grandfather's experience with Alzheimer's. Readers who have also experienced loved ones with this disease will feel acknowledged and encouraged, seeing this story within this work's pages. Those who have had the good fortune of not knowing this disease will increase their understanding and be able to connect with Merci on many other levels, increasing their awareness of her struggle and empathy for those in similar situations. I highly recommend that all middle and high school librarians acquire this touching piece of literature for their collections. Citation Medina, M. (2018). Merci Suarez changes gears. Somerville, MA: Candlewick Press.
Merci Suarez Changes Gears. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.amazon.com/Merci- Su%C3%A1rez-Changes-Gears-Medina/dp/076369049X Image Figure 1. Cover Image of The Stuff of Stars from Amazon Evaluation of Book "BANG!" (Bauer, 2018). Answering the questions of how did it all start and where did we come from, The Stuff of Stars works to artfully depict and summarize the Big Bang and evolutionary theory in a tangible and friendly way that young readers can comprehend. Utilizing illustrations rich in composition and texture, in conjunction with specific vocabulary, Marion Bauer and Ekua Holmes have created a sensational piece of literature that allows children to explore complex topics with the aid of a gorgeously illustrated work. Spiraling swirls of color intertwine to create the outlines of snails, wooly mammoths, and the elegant neck of a giraffe. Ekua Holmes has employed the use of marbling to create uniquely composed illustrations that artfully mimic the text of each two-page spread. When there is a BANG! amongst the stardust, marbled fireworks appear on the page. Once animals have begun to take shape and form, the text finds itself embedded within the marbled images of snails, giraffes, butterflies, and birds. Adding depth and layers to Holmes's marbled illustrations, the use of mixed media adds texture to each page. Woolly mammoths can be seen marching across a two-page spread of green-marbled pages describing prehistoric times, and the growth of a human form is depicted on swirls of orange, yellow, and olive green. Communicating the ideas of life forming on top of a rich tapestry of stardust, Holmes's use of mixed media within the work shows the layers of animals and humanity that have formed since the BANG! of stardust helped to form the backdrop of the universe. As impressive as the masterful works of illustrations within, is Bauer's utilization of specific vocabulary within this piece of children's literature. Explaining the complex topics of the Big Bang Theory and evolution, Bauer does not dumb down her work with juvenile vocabulary. Instead, she choose to utilize specific, academic vocabulary interwoven within the language of the text that additionally cites familiar words that children will be able to relate to. Earth is described to have "just the right tilt", our origin stardust is described as just a "speck", the universe was born in a "trillionth of a second", and along with jellyfish and spiders, "mitochondria" can thank their existence to "that starry stuff". Response How did we all get here? Why is Earth the only planet with animals? These and other similar questions are some of those posed by our youngest learners. Often, these questions are met with answers along the lines of, "I'll tell you when you're older" or "it's too difficult for you to understand". The Stuff of Stars is a triumph in this respect. Tackling two complex scientific topics, The Big Bang Theory and evolution, The Stuff of Stars has created a piece in which even young readers can begin to comprehend their origin stories. Celebrating child enquiry and supporting it to the best of our abilities, is one of the most important things an adult can do for their young learner. There is nothing more discouraging than being told that you are too young or not intelligent enough yet to understand something. In addition to not knowing how to explain these theories to a child, adults tend to stray from these answers, fearing religious protests and complaints from other adults. It is our duty to give children the breadth of theories and knowledge that is known to humanity today, in order to prepare our future generation for greater and more in-depth discoveries of the unknown. As a teacher, this is something that I must balance everyday. Wanting to expose students to all knowledge, but having parents and state mandates restricting what I share with my learners. I hope that all librarians, elementary to high school, will include this work in their library collections. Every reader will benefit from this work, whether that benefit is a better understanding of various theories, or simply witnessing fantastic works of art that are held in its pages, The Stuff of Stars offers something to every reader. Conclusion Scientific theory meets works of art in the triumphant literature of, The Stuff of Stars. Bauer and Holmes have successfully tackled two prominent pieces of scientific theory, The Big Bang Theory and evolution, and made it approachable for young readers through employing composition and texture within their illustrations, and specific vocabulary within the language of the text. The Stuff of Stars is a work that can be enjoyed by readers of all ages. I highly suggest that all ranges of school librarians and public librarians acquire this work for their library collections. Citation Bauer, M.D. (2018). The stuff of stars. Somerville, MA: Candlewick Press.
The Stuff of Stars. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.amazon.com/Stuff-Stars-Marion-Dane- Bauer/dp/076367883X Image Figure 1. Cover Image of Hello, Universe from Amazon Evaluation of Book What would you do if stuck at the bottom of a well? Succumb to thoughts of doom, destruction, and beings from myths and legends? Virgil, reaping the consequences of a valiant rescue mission for his gerbil, experiences this unthinkable predicament. Erin Estrada Kelly details Virgil's assumedly unavoidable demise with figurative language, unexpected insights, and of course, a tantalizing plot. Will Virgil be saved or will he in fact be swallowed up by Pah in one fell swoop? Though it may be easy for readers to picture the darkness of Virgil's situation, likening the darkness of the hole to other experiences they may have had in the past, it is most likely that they will not be able to draw on past experience to elicit the feelings of bleakness that Virgil must go through during this harrowing tale. "All the crying, fear, and loneliness had wrapped a big, heavy blanket around him and told him to rest, so he had" (Kelly, 2017, p. 284). Utilizing figurative language in the form of similes and metaphors, Kelly gives insight not only to Virgil's personal plights, but also the thoughts and feelings of other characters who face unique situations. "They don't make me hear everything clearly, the way you do. I have to fit the sounds with the shape the lips make, like a puzzle" (Kelly, 2017, p. 235). Valencia, a girl from Virgil's homeroom who wear hearing aids due to her deafness, is closely followed throughout Kelly's work, giving readers a greater understanding of her experiences and struggles. A fearsome force of energy, Valencia Somerset can tackle any obstacle, she may just need you to repeat what you just said while facing her so she can read your lips. Psychics, boys down wells, and snake hunts will keep readers entranced in the plot of Hello, Universe. On the valiant mission of saving his gerbil from the depths of a well, Virgil Salinas has found himself perilously stuck at the bottom of that well with no phone, no food, and no hope of rescue. Little does he know that his friends both new and old are on the hunt for Virgil, feeling unease at his unexpected absence at their designated meet-up time. Will Virgil's friends be able to save the day? Readers will be at the edge of their seats rooting for Valencia, Gen, and Kaori on their quest. "I, uh, kinda have this feeling that we are meant to be friends" (Kelly, 2017, p. 46). Plagued with shyness, Virgil feels like the greatest failure at the end of the school year because he has yet to pluck up the courage to introduce himself to a girl he knows is destined to be his friend, Valencia Somerset. In the mean time, Valencia herself longs for a true friend, and seeks out the help of local physic and Virgil's close friend, Kaori. Known to Kaori as Renee, the girls set out together on a quest to save Virgil from unknown terrors and perils. Little do these characters know that Renee is actually Virgil's destined friend V.S. and that there is someone out there longing to be Valencia's friend already. Unexpected insights will keep readers riveted as they turn pages to uncover whether Kaori will finally discover Valencia's true identity and whether Valencia will realize that the five, collected stones from the well earlier in the day were in fact a sign of Virgil's whereabouts. Response Nightmares and the fear of what's lurking under the bed are some of the earliest memories many have. It is all consuming to wonder what is lurking for you in the dark. Living out his greatest fear, being trapped in the dark with no escape, Virgil Salinas recognizes and addresses many young readers' personal fears. A beautiful story of destiny and friendship, Hello, Universe showcases the important message that many friendships are the work of fate and though you may feel lonely, there is most likely someone seeking you out. Overall, Kelly's work is a riveting piece of literature that all readers will enjoy. Will Virgil be rescued? Will he finally speak to his destined friend, V.S.? I highly encourage elementary and middle school librarians to acquire this compelling story for their collections. Conclusion Destiny and fate are fickle creatures that sometimes bring us the greatest surprises in the most unlikely and dreadful situations. Virgil and Valencia experience the beguiling inter-workings of destiny as it toils to merge their paths and create a friendship out of dire circumstances. Readers will be captivated by Kelly's plot and unexpected insights as they build connections with characters through figurative language that makes them relatable figures you want to root for. Middle grade readers will find delight in the pages of Hello, Universe, and I highly recommend this work to all elementary and middle school librarians. Citation Hello, Universe. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.amazon.com/Hello-Universe-Erin-Entrada-
Kelly/dp/0062414151 Kelly, E.E. (2017). Hello, universe. New York, NY: HarperCollins Publishers. Image Figure 1. Cover Image of Under the Ramadan Moon from Amazon Evaluation of Book Every culture and custom should be celebrated in children's literature. Acknowledging the tradition of Ramadan, Under the Ramadan Moon is an ode to those children and families that observe Ramadan annually. Texture and color are utilized to mirror the rich tradition that is Ramadan, and children will be drawn into the music that Sylvia Whitman employs in the language of the work. Cool tones will signal the evenings observing Ramadan, juxtaposed to the warm tones of day time scenes. Whitman utilizes color strategically to signal to the readers the passing of time throughout the work. Additionally, warm tones illuminate scenes of family enjoying one another's company by the light of a lamp or fire, emphasizing the warmth of family and Ramadan bringing them all together. Illustrations rich in texture, mimic the scenes of family within, rich in love and culture. Sue Williams, illustrator of Under the Ramadan Moon, employs the use of pastels to create rich tapestries of both warm and cool colors within her illustrations. Using pastels, there is a significant amount of texture within the pages of this book. Every line adds layers of texture, building up to develop richly layered images depicting the layers of family and tradition on each two-page spread. "...under the moon, under the moon, under the Ramadan moon" (Whitman, 2008). This repeated lyric can be heard throughout Under the Ramadan Moon, and elicits an almost sing-song response from the reader has they repeatedly see this phrase throughout the work. Within each two-page spread, readers are told of the many activities families enjoy while observing Ramadan "under the moon" or "under the Ramadan moon" (Whitman, 2008). Tying all of these ideas together is the repeated, lyrical expression that all readers will come to sing or chant by the end, "...under the moon, under the moon, under the Ramadan moon" (Whitman, 2008). Response Some of my earliest and fondest memories of my childhood were times baking with my mother, or drinking hot tea while playing board games by the fire with my family. Under the Ramadan Moon will resonate with every child despite whether they observe Ramadan or not. Relating to children with kindred activities such as baking, telling stories, visiting with friends, and snacking with family by a crackling fire, will make the book relatable to all readers, eliciting understanding from those who have never even heard of Ramadan before. Works that speak to traditions, especially those showcasing multicultural families, are extremely important to expose our young readers to. We want all children to begin developing understand and knowledge of other cultures from a young age, so that when they are confronted with negativity or others fearing the unknown in their later years, they will be able to respond with knowledge and understanding. Under the Ramadan Moon speaks to many familiar activities that children of all cultures enjoy with their families. We want children to see that though they may be different from others in some aspects, such as religion, they still are fundamentally similar in their values and customs. I highly recommend that elementary and public librarians include this work in their library collections. Conclusion Eating with family and enjoying the company of friends, are familiar activities that every child can relate to. Though our religious traditions may have different names and include some different activities, many similar customs transcend the holidays. Every reader will be able to relate to Under the Ramadan Moon, despite their own cultural and religious traditions. Bridging the divide from the unfamiliar to the known, Under the Ramadan Moon is an important piece of multicultural literature that should be available to all readers in elementary or public libraries. Citation Under the Ramadan Moon. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.amazon.com/Under-Ramadan-
Moon-Sylvia-Whitman/dp/0807583057 Whitman, S. (2008). Under the Ramadan moon. Park Ridge, IL: Albert Whitman & Company. Image Figure 1. Cover Image of The Boo-Boos that Changed the World: A True Story About an Accidental Invention (Really!) from Amazon Evaluation of Book From the largest invention to the smallest, there is a story and inventor behind every gadget and gizmo. Featuring the inventor of the Band-Aid, Earle Dickson, readers will be transported through time to the 1920s, and follow Earle on his journey to creating the perfect, self-adhesive bandage. With illustrations that utilize color to take readers back in time, images that reinforce text to support emerging readers, and narrative dialogue to engage readers in the overall plot, The Boo-Boos that Changed the World is an enjoyable read for all young, inventive readers. Set during the 1920s, Chris Hsu successfully takes readers back in time through his expert use of color selection. Muted colors pigment the pages, representative of tastes and trends from that time. Men in dark gray suits and backgrounds of olive and navy enhance Hsu's attempts at subtly placing his characters in a former era. Covering the creation of multiple prototypes while introducing higher-level vocabulary, it is beneficial that Wittenstein and Hsu chose to include illustrations that reinforce the text of each page. Readers can visually see the advancements and evolving changes of the Band-Aid progressively throughout the story, despite whether they knew upon first read what "sterile gauze" or "crinoline were" (Wittenstein, 2018). As a picture book, this is a key feature that makes this work approachable for young readers. "The End...OOPS. Not yet. Sorry" (Wittenstein, 2018). Throughout Wittenstein's work, readers will experience an overlaid comedic dialogue that often declares the end to the story, though there is much more of the story left and many evolutions of the Band-Aid to go. Reinforcing the design process and growth mindset, these spurts of narration communicate the ideas that many kids have as they feel they have finished a product. Done! However in reality, as this book demonstrates, often your final product only ends up being a prototype in the overall design process. So, not only do these dialogue blurts offer a playful, comedic voice to the overarching plot, they additionally emphasize the journey of creating a successful invention. Response Everyone can remember a time in which they had created something sensational, a craft or story, that when presented to a teacher the response was along the lines of, you're not done yet. Working through the design process and maintain a growth mindset is no easy feat. The more we expose our students to experiences such as Earle Dickson's, the more our children will be inclined to be continuously motivated despite minor setbacks. The Boo-Boos that Changed the World is an enjoyable read full of playful commentary and intriguing information. I highly recommend including this work in all elementary and public libraries. Conclusion Inventing is a thrilling yet frustrating process full of both highs and lows. Following Earle Dickson through his many variations of the bandaid, readers will be transported back in time through era evoking, colorful illustrations that will reinforce the text for readers. Playful, humorous dialogue will keep readers engaged as they learn the intriguing origin story of the ever popular, Band-Aid. Elementary school and public libraries should definitely considering adding this piece to their collections. Citation The Boo-Boos that Changed the World: A True Story About an Accidental Invention (Really!).
(n.d.). Retrieved from Wittenstein, B. (2018). The boo-boos that changed the world: A true story about an accidental invention (really!). Watertown, MA: Charlesbridge Publishing, Inc. Image Figure 1. Cover Image of Game Changers: The Story of Venus and Serena Williams from Amazon Evaluation of Book From Compton to courts around the globe, Venus and Serena are a true, self-made story. Following the victorious lives of Venus and Serena Williams, Game Changers: The Story of Venus and Serena Williams, depicts a tale of two hard working girls who valiantly placed all their efforts and hope into the game of tennis. Lesa Cline-Ransome takes young readers through this journey beginning with their childhood and ending with two successful sisters taken on the world of tennis. James E. Ransome has developed gorgeous, mixed media illustrations that provide texture, have brilliant composition, and aid in extend or developing the plot that Lesa Cline-Ransome shares. Panels of gorgeous artwork take on the pages of this moving story. Employing the use of mixed media, James E. Ransome has created rich tapestries of texture that could be works of art standing alone from text. Within these richly textured images, Ransome seems to be metaphorically representing the heavily layered and richly textured lives of the Williams sisters. Pieces interwoven to the pages are darker at first in the sisters' humble beginnings, but become increasingly more vibrant as readers move through the work. Ransome's expert use of composition within his mixed media illustrations will inspire awe in readers and will ignite feelings within readers as they turn the pages of this masterful work. Two scenes in particular, the one in which Venus and Serena take on the Olympics in Sydney, Australia and the image in which the sisters' beads are scattered through the air, showcase how composition is so expertly utilized in this work. Beads flying through the air evoke feelings of determination and will, while the scene of the tiny Williams sisters surrounded by hundreds of fans in the all-encapsulating arena stands will speak to just how far the sisters have come from the trash-laden, barren courts of Compton. As a picture book, Lesa Cline-Ransome and James Ransome successfully utilize images to marry to the text given on each page, extending and developing the plot. This will help readers connect with this nonfiction work, while allowing them to access topics and vocabulary they may have otherwise been unfamiliar with. Additionally, difficult concepts such as playing amongst the gunshots of neighborhood gangs, are presented in a more approachable format, suiting for elementary readers. Response Thumbing through the pages of Game Changers, I could not help but be struck by the masterful works of art presented on each two page spread. Evoking feelings of determination, teamwork, and triumph, James Ransome has produced awe inspiring art that enhances Lesa Cline-Ransome's nonfiction work in such a way that most do not compare to. Additionally, I appreciate that Lesa Cline-Ransome has decided to follow the lives of two successful, African American women and included the difficult topics of their childhood, such as neighborhood gunshots and trash-laden courts. Representing a walk of life that is not always showcased in picture books, this story will allow those readers in similar circumstances to feel recognized and inspired. This fresh perspective, will allow other readers to experience challenges and struggles that are much different than their own. Overall, Game Changers is a brilliant work of art that all readers will find something to enjoy within its pages. I highly recommend including this work in all elementary and public libraries. Conclusion It is a rare find when a nonfiction work draws you into its plot while inspiring readers with masterpiece illustrations. Game Changers; The Story of Venus and Serena Williams is a unique piece of literature, capturing the lives of the famous Williams sisters. Readers will be delighted to continue learning more. Illustrations that expertly wield texture and composition in a way that extends and develops the plot, will evoke feelings amongst readers that they may have never experienced before while reading a nonfiction piece of literature. I strongly recommend elementary and public librarians acquire this piece for their library collections. Citation Cline-Ransome, L. (2018). Game changers: The story of Venus and Serena Williams. New York,
NY: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers. Game Changers: The Story of Venus and Serena Williams. (n.d.). Image Figure 1. Cover Image of Zita the Spacegirl from Amazon Evaluation of Book It all starts, as the best stories do, with a BIG RED BUTTON. Transported to another dimension full of creatures and robots that Zita has never seen before, she must brave perilous terrain and wily tricksters to save her friend and bring them both back home to Earth. Hatke's work, Zita the Spacegirl will delight readers with illustrations that extend and develop the plot, images that add depth and detail to the work, and dialogue that reveals the emotions and inner thoughts of the characters. Panels of colorful illustrations will propel the reader through this intergalactic tale. As a graphic novel, Hatke relies heavily on his comic images to communicate his developing plot. At times, a facial expression or birds-eye-view is all that's needed to let readers know of the approaching adventures to come. Fear, triumph, and explosion of epic proportions are surmised by details through the in-depth illustrations that Hatke utilizes in his work. It is through Hatke's comic panels that he will primarily reveal the feelings and outcomes of his characters through details added in the scene. Approaching the enormity of a castle juxtaposed by a miniature Zita and companion, Hatke effectively evokes feelings such as hopelessness in readers, a depth that can only be surmised through the careful addition of detail. "Nerves. I've never been this far from the scrap piles before" (Zita, 2010, p. 105). It is often through dialogue, especially in graphic novels, that characters are able to reveal their innermost thoughts and feelings. This theory rings true in the case of Zita the Spacegirl. Excerpted above are the thoughts of Zita's trepidatious robot friend. This dialogue reveals the fear experienced by this otherwise seemingly stoic robot. Response Conclusion Plunging into other worlds and dimensions at the push of a button, Zita the Spacegirl will have your graphic novel and SciFi lovers singing your praises. Comic panels full of illustrations that develop the overarching plot while creating depth with detail, in combination with insightful and humorous dialogue between this rag-tag group of characters, will keep readers engaged and wanting more. Lucky for them, this is the first work in a dynamic otherworldly trilogy! I highly encourage elementary and public librarians to acquire Zita the Spacegirl for the graphic novel sections of their collections. Citation Hatke, B. (2010). Zita the spacegirl. New York, NY: First Second.
Zita the Spacegirl. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.amazon.com/Zita-Spacegirl-Ben- Hatke/dp/1596434465 Image Figure 1. Cover Image of Ghost Boys from Amazon Evaluation of Book Tackling the difficult topic of prejudice in the justice system, Ghost Boys is realistic fiction text that allows all of the underlying issues and tensions related to the predominance of African American homicides by law enforcement to be understood by younger students who may in fact be facing these issues already in their neighborhoods. Utilizing unexpected insights, well-rounded characters, and a unique point of view, Jewell Parker Rhodes has created a powerful work for young people exploring injustice in our justice system. Alternating between Jerome's past, living self and his current, dead state, Ghost Boys explores the lives of various characters before and after Jerome's untimely passing. Offering the point of view of both alive and deceased Jerome, gives Ghost Boys a unique perspective. Readers will additionally be able to have an almost omniscient perspective to other characters within the work as Jerome visits them after his passing. Rhodes has given the dead and unheard a voice. As readers follow Jerome's journey before and after his death, they will be able to see the transformation and growth of several characters and in particular, Jerome. Constantly living in fear of bullies, Jerome is relieved to befriend Carlos, a tough kid from San Antonio. Jerome has been raised to be cautious of his surroundings at all times and the appearance he exudes. Playing with the toy gun, Jerome feels a sense of freedom he has never experienced in his neighborhood before. Through his death, Jerome works through his anger and realizes that the cop's actions out of fear need to be acknowledged and analyzed. However, he soon realizes that in order to gain acceptance of his death, he can not hold onto lingering feelings of resentment towards an unknowledgeable and prejudiced individual. "Something inside him isn't right" (Rhodes, 2018, p. 180). "'Cops must get scared a lot.' 'But they shouldn't get more scared just because someone's black'" (Rhodes, 2018, p. 181). As Jerome struggles to accept his unfair fate, Sarah, the daughter of the cop, struggles to not hate and resent her own father for his prejudice actions. Through his conversations with Sarah, Jerome reveals the insight he has gained since becoming a ghost boy. He has learned that though the hateful and prevalent injustice of African American homicides should be shared, it is not helpful or healthy to resent and hate each and every prejudice individual. In order for societal growth to happen, dialogues and education must come from a place of peaceful and compassionate help. Anger only grows anger. Resentment only grows resentment. Response Each member of society is plagued by societal pressures that have an impact on their way of life. As a woman, I have been raised to be constantly aware of my surrounding, encouraged to dress modestly, and advised to stay away from certain areas or walk alone at night. It is tragic that children at such a young age, such as Jerome, must be aware of similar dangers and prejudice because of the color of their skin. He must present himself a certain way to society or else face fatal repercussions. The fear paradigm acknowledged in this powerful work is imperative to address as a society. Until we begin to analyze and address prejudice in every facet of society, including our justice system, we will continue to live in mutual fear. Jewell Parker Rhodes has tackled a difficult topic from various, influential perspectives, and additionally created a piece of quality literature. Though I do encourage elementary, middle, and public school librarians to include this work in their collections, I strongly encourage them to additionally create opportunities for students to have conversations with them or other educators about such a mature read. Conclusion We are not in charge of the walk of life we are born into. Unfortunately, due to the history that has come before us, some must face additional challenges and obstacles due to the color of their skin. Beginning conversations about injustice and prejudice are difficult and uncomfortable. Ghost Boys is a powerful work by Jewell Parker Rhodes that utilizes point of view, well-rounded characters, and unexpected insights to begin having these conversations. Until the ugliness of prejudice is recognized and taken strides towards rectifying, there will continue to be hateful acts such as those explored in this influential novel. I highly recommend that librarians provide Ghost Boys in their collections, but also collaborate with educators in identifying ways to approach students about the difficult topics discussed in the text. Citation Ghost Boys. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.amazon.com/Ghost-Boys-Jewell-Parker-
Rhodes/dp/0316262285 Rhodes, J. P. (2018). Ghost boys. New York, NY: Little, Brown and Company. Image Figure 1. Cover Image of Lunch Lady: and the Cyborg Substitute from Amazon Evaluation of Book "A lunch lady's work is never done" (Krosoczka, 2009). From chicken nugget bombs to helicopter spatulas, you never know what this lunch lady has up her sleeve. A tireless protector of balanced lunches and the safety of her school's students, Lunch Lady will stop at nothing to bring justice to those who bring chaos to her school. Through illustrations that extend or develop the plot, images that create depth in the story through added detail, and text that creates an action-packed and suspenseful mood, Jarrett Krosoczka has created a thrilling graphic novel that will have readers turning pages to find out what happens next. As a graphic novel, Kroscoczka has heavily supplemented his text with illustrations that extend and develop his story's plot. Many of the characters' actions are depicted primarily through images rather than text stating their every move. Though Lunch Lady: and the Cyborg Substitute does not offer much text to keep the plot moving, Krosoczka's illustrations are so detailed and dynamic, students will be absorbed in the overall story and easily follow along. Dialogue and illustrations that create depth in the text with detail, play a heavy role in Krosoczka's work. From characters' communication and inner thoughts, readers come to learn that the substitute has replaced their favorite teacher, Teacher of the Year elections are around the corner, and that nobody likes the science teacher, Mr. Edison. However, it is only through Krosoczka's detailed illustrations that readers piece together that the substitute is actually a cyborg, and their favorite teacher has been kidnapped by Mr. Edison, motivated by the glory of possibly being elected Teacher of the Year. An extra thrilling surprise awaits readers on the last page of the work, revealing that the now incarcerated Mr. Edison is still plotting with his cyborg from behind bars. Reflecting the adventure and suspense of a beloved comic book, Krosoczka utilizes mood in his work to propel the story along and keep his readers engaged. Visually and textually depicted times of suspicion, worry, and action, Krosoczka embeds mood within both his characters' dialogue and illustrations. Readers will have the unique experience of both seeing and feeling suspense build as Lunch Lady gets her bad guy. Response Looking back on my early years of reading, I distinctly remember thumbing through library books, searching for pictures and how many pages were in each book. Transitioning from picture books to chapter books is a large jump that could make even confident readers trepidatious. Graphic novels, such as Lunch Lady: and the Cyborg Substitute, can help students during their transitional phase by building up their confidence in reading lengthier works while embedding a lot of illustrations that will help them attach to a plot and speed up the reading process. Acknowledging the paradigm of the suspicious lunch lady, I think that students will relate with the Lunch Lady series, appreciating the play on their long held suspicions that the lunch lady was always up to something. Overall, Krosoczka has creating an enjoyable read that many students will be engaged and encouraged by. Graphic novels are a great gateway into the land of chapter books, building up students' confidence with each work they successfully complete. I strongly encourage librarians to invest in this genre of book, and think that the Lunch Lady series would be a fantastic, entertaining inclusion. Conclusion Milk-cams, helicopter spatulas, spork phones will delight readers as they follow the virtuous, crime-fighting efforts of their beloved Lunch Lady. Within this graphic novel series, Jarrett Krosoczka provides illustrations that extend and develop the story's plot as well as provide details not covered within the written text. Establishing a mood of action and suspense that students will relate to other treasured superhero comics and tales, Krosoczka utilizes both text and illustrations to communicate the shifting moods of characters and plot within his story. Providing a unique and engaging story, I highly recommend librarians including the Lunch Lady series in their graphic novel collections. Citation Krosoczka, J. (2009). Lunch lady: And the cyborg substitute. New York, NY: Alfred A. Knopf.
Lunch Lady: and the Cyborg Substitute. (2009). Retrieved from https://www.amazon.com/ Lunch-Lady-Cyborg-Substitute/dp/0375846832 Image Figure 1. Cover Image of The Great Big Book of Families from Amazon Evaluation of Book Diversity comes in many forms, shapes, and sizes. Helping students navigate the unique world they observe around them, Mary Hoffman has created a representative work that all students will be able to see themselves reflected in. Utilizing illustrations to reinforce text, create depth with detail, and transforming each page with compositions that reflect all children, Hoffman has created a powerful tool for beginning difficult conversations with younger children. Directed towards younger learners, ranging from preschool through early elementary school, Hoffman has diligently reinforced her text with Ros Asquith's illustrations that depict the enforced text on the page. For instance, when the author describes the variety of family guardians, Asquith depicted each described type of scenario. There were illustrations of a family with just one "daddy" or "mommy", a family who lived with their grandparents, families with "two mommies or two daddies", and even a family with adopted or fostered children. Uniting text with images, Hoffman and Asquith has given children an empowering book that they can see themselves depicted in a variety of ways. As readers turn each page, they will time and time again be presented with an in-depth, detailed two-page spread of empowering images that they can relate to. Asquith has created depth in the overall narrative by including details such as children's line drawings, a spectrum of skin tones, and relatable imagery that students can connect with at a personal level. Not only does each spread include primary illustrations that reinforce the text, but Asquith has additionally included a border to each page that showcases limitless variations through detail. Asquith's expert use of composition within the illustrations of The Great Big Book of Families, communicates joy and excitement through loose watercolor and ink line drawings. Focused on delivering a positive message to young readers about acceptance of all differences, Asquith has chosen to utilize bright, cheerful colors within each image. He has structured each page to showcase a few, concrete illustrations in the center of each two-page spread, but provides variety to these illustrations through borders around each page with familiar objects and faces. Response Communicating about observed differences between families is sometimes a difficult conversation to have with young children. Mary Hoffman and Ros Asquith have given parents and educators a powerful tool through their book, The Great Big Book of Families. Hoffman and Asquith tackle difficult topics such as same sex parents, adoption, homelessness, and poverty in an approachable and friendly way that all readers will be able to understand. As stated in the beginning of the book, many depictions of families often only include the typical four-person household with a mother and a father. Students will feel empowered looking through the pages of this book as they see their unique families and situations depicted on each page. When parents and educators neglect to acknowledge and separate differences, this is when discomfort and hostility settle into the place where acceptance should be. It is imperative that students are able to see themselves in literature, are comforted by the messages they receive through that literature, and have their unique ways of life acknowledged by the important adults in their families. I highly encourage preschool, elementary, and public school librarians to include this powerful resource in their library collections. Conclusion Working moms, two dads, living in a house or in an apartment, families come in all shapes and sizes. Using illustrations reinforce text, provide depth with detail, and equip the use of composition to represent all variations of families and ways of life, Mary Hoffman and Ros Asquith have created a powerful tool for students to begin their journey of acceptance guided by loving and open-minded role models. Tackling difficult subjects in an approachable and joyful way, The Great Big Book of Families is an asset to any library collection that serves younger readers. Citation Hoffman, M. (2011). The great big book of families. New York, NY: Dial Books for Young Readers.
The Great Big Book of Families. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.amazon.com/Great-Big- Book-Families/dp/0803735162 Image Figure 1. Cover Image of Wolf in the Snow from Amazon Evaluation of Book "Bark", "whine", "hoooooowwwwlll", a mostly wordless picture book, other than the emphasized sounds of the nature around her, Wolf in the Snow is a beautiful tale of a girl's journey to help a lone, lost wolf pup whose grateful pack helps her find the way home. Gorgeous illustrations of loose watercolor with black, ink details establish the setting of this tale, develop the plot, and aid in mirroring the girl and pup's plight through the Matthew Cordell's use of composition. From Cordell's snow flocked illustrations, it is obvious that our story is set in a small, desolate town surrounded by the woods and arctic tundra. "Huff, huff", the author emphasizes the difficulties of trekking through this terrain through scenes such as the townspeople bundled-up, and the wolf sinking deep into the snow as he walks (Cordell, 2017). As a primarily wordless picture book, the illustrations must take on the role of extending and developing the plot. Cordell expertly portrays a little girl and wolf pup's journey, page by page, as they find each other and try to find their way home. Though this book does not include much dictation, readers will still be on the edge of their seats, engaging in the depicted plot and wanting to know what happens next. Beginning our tale even before the title page, Cordell equips the use of composition to skillfully depict the similar, paralleled journeys of the girl and wolf pup as they trek through the snowy woods. Readers follow the girl and pup as their paths collide. Once united, the girl works perilously to reunite the pup with his pack. Mirroring these conditions, the pack howls their way to the girl's ultimate rescue by her search party. Response Growing up in south Texas, icy terrain was not something I had experience with. Through Matthew Cordell's beautifully detailed illustrations, I believe that though some students may have a similar lack of experience with the setting within this book, they will be able to relate to the struggle the girl and pup face during their journeys home. Having worked with young students for many years, I know they will be drawn to the compassion highlighted in this work. A heart warming message of community, the girl toils to help the pup, and the wolf pack howls into the night for the girl's eventual rescue. Overall, readers will be drawn into the snow-laden pages of this duo's journey, and will be ensconced into the drama and suspense that are depicted throughout Cordell's piece. I highly recommend elementary and public librarians include this work in their library collections. Conclusion A pup separated from the pack. A girl separated from her home. Mirrored journeys collide for a common goal, returning home safely to their families. Nurturing the idea of community and helpfulness, Wolf in the Snow is an artful depiction of human and animal showing compassion towards one another. Readers will be captivated by Cordell's illustrations and rooting for the safe return of the girl and pup to their families. Utilizing imagery to establish an arctic setting, develop the plot, and composing a mirrored journey of compassion and survival, Cordell has created a masterpiece that readers young and old will enjoy. I strongly encourage librarians serving younger readers to acquire this picture book for their library collections. Citation Cordell, M. (2017). Wolf in the snow. New York, NY: A Feiwel and Friends Book.
Wolf in the Snow. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.amazon.com/Wolf-Snow- Matthew-Cordell/dp/1250076366 Image Figure 1. Cover Image of Hello Lighthouse from Evaluation of Book Lighthouse, a beacon of light for the safe travels of ships, and a homestead through the seasons and changing tides of its keeper's life. Artistically depicting the seasons of life of both lighthouse and keeper, Hello Lighthouse utilizes shape, illustrations that extend the plot, and music in the language that provide readers with a unique experience of feeling they are at see with the lighthouse keeper. Circles abound in Sophie Blackall's illustrations and story. Utilizing this shape, Sophie mirrors the birds-eye-view of the interior of the lighthouse, while showcasing important moment's in the keeper's wife, such as the arrival of his wife to the lighthouse. Not only are Sophie's illustrations based off of circular patterns and compositions, additionally, readers follow the keeper along on a circular journey, from arrival at the lighthouse to viewing it at a distance with the family he has created from the shoreline. Blackall's allows her images to extend the plot from the written word on the pages. "Inside the lighthouse, the woman walks around and around the room. Her husband boils water and helps her breath in and out" (Blackall, 2018). From this text, readers can assume that the keeper's wife is going through a difficult situation. The scene depicted on the page reveals that the wife is actually pregnant and in labor, extending the plot from what is written on the page. "Hello! ...Hello! ...Hello!" (Blackall, 2018). This trumpeting cry can nearly be heard by readers as they read it on the page. Reflecting the isolation of being on the open ocean, this music in the language is heralded throughout the text. Readers will immediately be brought back to memories of times they themselves have been in expanses of nature in which their echoes abound for miles. Response Giving reader's a unique perspective of the historical life of a lighthouse keeper, Hello Lighthouse is a beautiful story following the tenure of one particular keeper and his life in the lighthouse. This book showcases the importance of community and family, depicted in several scenes of wife caring for husband, husband caring for wife, and keeper caring for sailors injured at sea. Heralding ideas of compassion and hard work, Hello Lighthouse exemplifies how humans should live and interact with one another. Personally, this text brings back images of numerous interactions with nature in which I have felt that type of isolation that is depicted within the book's pages. Overall, Hello Lighthouse is a delightful story with gorgeous illustrations that elicit strong memories and emotions from readers. I highly recommend elementary and public libraries including this work in their collections. Conclusion Before the grand expansion of utilizing machines for a myriad of jobs, lives once revolved around vital chores, such as keeping a lighthouse lit to shepherd those at sea. Sophie Blackall in Hello Lighthouse reminds readers of this simpler time through use of shape, illustrations that extend the book's overall plot, and music in the language. Focused on family and the importance of hard work and community, I strongly recommend Hello Lighthouse to readers of all ages and encourage elementary and public librarians to include this text in their collections. Citation Blackall, S. (2018). Hello lighthouse. New York, NY: Little, Brown and Company.
Hello Lighthouse. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.amazon.com/Hello-Lighthouse-Sophie- Blackall/dp/0316362387 Image Figure 1. Cover Image of The Poet X from HarperCollins Publishers Evaluation of Book Xiomara is a warrior who fights with verse to reveal her true self and dissipate others' opinions and biases against her. Growing up in a traditional, catholic home, with old school parents from the Dominican Republic, Xiomara has a path set before her before birth. As Xiomara comes to learn more about herself, she begins to question the path set by her parents and starts a revolution of words through poetry in which she begins to learn who she is. Written from X's perspective, Elizabeth Acevedo utilizes figurative language, strong themes, and authentic dialogue through verse that mimics the slam poetry that Xiomara has come to love. Through this work, Acevedo gives a voice to a demographic of teen girls that is not always represented or heard, and empowers them to be themselves. Showcasing the impact of poetry through both plot and choice of overall structure, Acevedo highlights the use of figurative language within poetry that enhances its ability to transcend a surface level message. Xiomara herself looks for metaphors everywhere, especially in the scriptures of her traditional, Catholic upbringing, incidentally using them in her own writing to reveal truths about herself and her loved ones to attempt a deeper understanding of the world around her. "He is an award-winning bound book, where I am the loose and blank pages" (Acevedo, p. 99, 2018). Tackling difficult themes that many teens face such as questioning the religion and beliefs of your parents, acceptance of sexuality, and the demonizing of girls' developing bodies, The Poet X empowers readers to critically analyze their own beliefs and empowers them to reach self-acceptance and have difficult conversations with those who condemn them. Additionally, Acevedo chose to highlight the importance of seeking out help and building community with others, and how these connections will help you in times of distress. "Mami, we need to talk. And I think we need help to do it" (Acevedo, p. 338, 2018). Creating authenticity within the text, Acevedo utilizes dialogue in both English and Spanish to accurately depict Xiomara's multicultural household. Raised in the Dominican Republic, Xiomara's parents have difficulty understanding their modern, American children. "'Mira, muchacha', she starts, 'I will feed and clothe no heathens'" (Acevedo, p. 16, 2018). Throughout the work, Acevedo represents this tension through X's parents' Spanish dialogue, a depiction of their background and where they come from, juxtaposed to Xiomara's English pleas, representing the drastically different world she is navigating as a teen in modern America. Reaction Raised on the border of Mexico, many of the classmates I grew up with were from traditional, Catholic households. Additionally, many of our teachers held these same beliefs and customs. Due to this established culture, it was often communicated to us girls, through harsh words and dress codes, that our bodies were something to be hid and ashamed of. It was our fault if we attracted unwanted male attention. Thankfully, my household and parents did not hold these same views, and fought against the unhealthy self image that my school promoted. In this light, I found The Poet X to be an empowering narrative that shows girls that they do not need to be docile and ashamed, but can be liberated through words and self acceptance. I also appreciate how this book works to fight against misinterpretations of religious scripture, showcasing Xiomara's priest as an important adversary for her emotional growth. This work is a very important piece of literature for those struggling to find themselves within the roles that society and parents cast upon them, and I believe it is a necessary asset for every high school library to have available in their collections. Conclusion It is through adolescent experiences that we often find out who we are. When feeling misunderstood or oppressed, artistic self expression can be a catalyst for self realization and change. Acevedo creates a powerful narrative that champions self acceptance, building community with others, and seeking out help during times of turmoil through powerful figurative language, challenging themes, and authentic dialogue. Communicating vital messages with a demographic that often feels misunderstood, teenagers across America, The Poet X is an important and essential piece of literature every high school and public library needs to have in their collections. Citation Acevedo, E. (2018). The poet x. New York, NY: HarperCollins Publishers.
The Poet X. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.harpercollins.com/9780062662804/the-poet-x/ Image Figure 1. Cover Image of Waste of Space from Amazon Evaluation of Book Living over two hundred thousand miles away from Earth in close quarters with the same people day in and day out, nothing could possibly go awry, right? In Stuart Gibb's third Moon Base Alpha novel, Waste of Space, Dashiell Gibson embarks on yet another sleuthing mission to uncover who is behind the attempted murder of fellow occupant, Lars Sjoberg. One of everyone's least favorite "Moonie", there are many suspects to consider on this case. Utilizing plot, setting, and tension Stuart Gibbs expertly creates an out of this world mystery full of suspicion, intrigue, and suspense. Gibbs keeps readers enraptured with the plot as the suspect list grows, and questionable events continue to find Dash around every corner. From the very first chapter, readers will be hooked after Dash and his dad's game of moon catch is quickly cut short by a perilous sounding scream. "He didn't get to finish the sentence. From the other end of the radio came a shrill, terrified scream" (Gibbs, 2018, p. 22). True to the SciFi genre, Gibbs has created a realistic, alternative world in which it seems completely plausible that a group of humans could live successfully on the face of the moon, while several of its inhabitants are approached telepathically by aliens. Marrying science to fantasy, Gibbs has created a uniquely perfect setting for his moon-based mystery series. Motivations caused by this alternative setting, ranging from yearning to return to Earth to lack of privacy, fuel this intergalactic novel. If an attempted murder isn't enough tension, try a couple homicide attempts. As Dash gets closer to finding his culprit, many will fight to keep the truth hidden. "Whoever was behind me had pulled [my hose] out on purpose. Someone was trying to kill me" (Gibbs, 2018, p. 251). The tension Gibbs equips in this work will keep readers in suspense and at the edge of their seats. Response After Earth's first taste of the moon in 1969, we have not been able to get over the grandiose ideas of future space travel and lunar civilizations. As a child, I was always fascinated by all things related to space, as many children are. In an age where Star Wars again reigns supreme, I think that Waste of Space by Stuart Gibbs and the rest of the Moon Base Alpha Series will be an astronomical hit. Gibbs plays on many humanistic needs such as need for privacy, strain of close quarters, and enjoyment of fresh tastes and foods, to fuel realistic motivations and tension in his mystery novel. Overall, Waste of Space is an extremely enjoyable read that will encourage readers to continue turning pages. Will Dashiell find the murderer? Will the murderer kill Dashiell before their identity is revealed? I highly encourage elementary, middle, and public librarians to add Waste of Space and the rest of the Moon Base Alpha series to their collection for a future fan favorite of middle grade readers. Conclusion Imagine the worst possible death, killed by the stinkiest fish dish known in existence, lutefisk. Murder, cyanide, and zero gravity make for a masterful combination in the mystery novel, Waste of Space by Stuart Gibbs. Employing a compelling plot riddled with tension, Gibbs has created an unputdownable mystery set in the cosmic world of space. Middle grade readers will not be able to stop reading the Moon Base Alpha series by Stuart Gibbs. I highly recommend librarians acquire this series for their collections if serving middle grade readers. Citation Gibbs, S. (2018). Waste of space. New York, NY: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers.
Waste of Space. (2019). Retrieved from https://www.amazon.com/Waste-Space-Moon-Base- Alpha/dp/148147779X Image Figure 1. Cover Image of Nevermoor: The Trials of Morrigan Crow from Amazon Evaluation of Book Lovers of all things fantastical, rejoice! Nevermoor: The Trials of Morrigan Crow is an enrapturing tale of a seemingly ordinary girl beating death, befriending unique and whimsical characters, and ultimately seeking out to defeat a spine trembling foe, the Wundersmith. Through her utilization of unique, well-rounded characters, a dynamic plot, and capturing readers attention from the very beginning of her work through drawing a line in the sand, Jessica Townsend has created an extremely enjoyable book that fans of fantasy will fall head over heels for. Readers are introduced to poor, doomed Morrigan Crow with her father's eulogy upon her death. Within the first few chapters, we come to find that children born on Eventide such as Morrigan will only live to the next Eventide, and in the mean time are blamed for every minor incident around the town that may transpire. Her father's eulogy and realizing that Eventide has come once more early into the novel, Townsend creates intrigue by drawing a line in the sand. Readers will await for something fantastical to happen, as they will have difficulty accepting that the main character and title's name right will die so early on into the book. "I'm on the Cursed Children's Register. Tonight is Eventide. I'm going to die at midnight" (Townsend, 2017, p. 59). From a giant, snarky feline to an eccentric benefactor, Nevermoor is riddled with well rounded characters that Morrigan meets along the way. Additionally, Townsend utilizes the multifaceted characters of Nevermoor to juxtapose the flat, introductory characters that readers met in Jackalfax, Morrigan's hometown. This juxtaposition aids in transporting readers to the fantastical world of Nevermoor, filled with delightful people, places, and experiences. Readers will surely fall in love with many characters within Townsend's pages, including sweet Morrigan Crow. Adhering to a multi-dimensional setting and rules traversing each land, Townsend aptly utilizes plot to propel her story along and lure readers in. Will Morrigan get to live past Eventide? Will Morrigan advance through the next trial? What is Morrigan's special talent? These questions and more will keep readers turning pages, showcasing Townsend's dynamic and ingeniously constructed plot. Response As an emerging reader in elementary school, developing my own personal tastes, I was transfixed with works of fantasy transporting me to magical realms full of whimsical creatures and governed by their own sets of rules. Some of my favorite books were Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, The Phantom Tollbooth, The Wizard of Oz series, and the Harry Pottery series. Nevermoor: The Trials of Morrigan Crow made me reminisce over these old favorites. Morrigan reminds readers that they should always have the courage to take on new challenges despite the odds. Cheating death and taking on magical obstacles in a new land, Morrigan is a fearless role model that readers will be able to relate to. Overall, Jessica Townsend's debut work is a thrilling read that audiences will adore. I highly recommend fantasy lovers to check out Nevermoor: The Trials of Morrigan Crow. I am giddy with anticipation to read the sequel, Wundersmith: The Calling of Morrigan Crow! Conclusion On an epic adventure, attempting to outrun pending death, Morrigan Crow takes on magical challenges in hopes of gaining a spot in mystical, wonderful Nevermoor. Fans of fantasy works such as the Harry Potter series will adore, Townsend's endearing characters, dynamic plot, and her drawing a line in the sand. Will Morrigan really outrun her death? Teachers and librarians of intermediate and secondary students should truly invest in this fantasy series for their library collections. Your patrons will thank you! Citation Nevermoor: The Trials of Morrigan Crow. (2019). Retrieved from
https://www.amazon.com/Nevermoor-Trials-Morrigan-Jessica-Townsend/dp/0316508888. Townsend, J. (2017). Nevermoor: The trials of Morrigan Crow. New York, NY: Little, Brown and Company. Image Figure 1. Cover Image of Lord of the Flies from Penguin Random House Evaluation of Book Catapulted into a world without grownups, a land without rules. It's any boy's dream, or so they thought. Lord of the Flies by William Golding is a classic piece of literature enhanced by its precise vocabulary, figurative language, and unexpected insights. Painting a vivid picture of the island a group of young, British boys has landed upon, Golding utilizes precise language to aid the reader in joining the boys in life on the island. The specific descriptors of "green feathers" of palm trees, palm and beach and water drawing to a "point at infinity", and an overbearing heat that was "always, and almost visible" assist the reader in being transported the very island the boys were standing on (Golding, 1954, p. 5). However, Golding's precise language does not only provide beautiful imagery of an untouched island, but also works to strike horror into the hearts of his readers. "When the creepers shook, the flies exploded from the guts with a vicious note and clamped back on again...The Lord of the Flies hung on his stick like a black ball" (Golding, 1954, p. 204). Throughout Lord of the Flies, Golding emphasizes the fading of the boys' enthusiasm for rule-free life on the island through embedded use of metaphor. As the boys navigate creating a society of their own, undergoing the trials and tribulations attached to such a task, Golding makes continuous reference to a conch, the boys' mascot and centralizing force while living on the island. Upon first finding the conch, it was a robust tool and symbol used to assemble the boys and discuss next steps in seeking survival and rescue while on the island. "In color, the shell was a deep cream, touched here and there with fading pink" (Golding, 1954, p. 14). However, as the group begins to fray, so does the conch, metaphorically illustrating the fragility and demise of the boys' newfound society; "...the conch lay at Ralph's feet, fragile and white" (Golding, 1954, p. 241). Naive school boys for the first time striking it out on their own, find that their reality is not as sweet and carefree as earlier presumed. Through facing the hardships of survival, the boys come to recognize the necessities life and society are not so easily attained. Golding reveals these revelations made by the boys throughout his work, providing unexpected insights. Before, they had grownups providing shelter and food as well as guidance, but here they must forge their own way. "Suddenly, pacing by the water, he was overcome with astonishment. He found himself understanding the wearisomeness of this life, where every path was an improvisation and a considerable part of one's waking life was spent watching one's feet" (Golding, 1954, p. 101). Response Lord of the Flies embarks on uncovering many truths regarding life and society. It is far too easy in life to take for granted basic necessities, such as food, shelter, and the overall feeling of safeness. This work helps to remind readers of many fundamental provisions they should be grateful for. Living in the United States, a democracy ruled by regulations that assist society moving forward in a presumably upstanding direction, Golding's book assists readers in seeing how fragile society can be without any set boundaries. Overall, I found Lord of the Flies to be a profound piece of literature that serves as an insightful reminder of the fragility of society, and the necessity of rules in maintaining a civilized culture. Conclusion Readers seeking a nail biting story of a tale of utmost survival and a society divided, will be gripped by Golding's, Lord of the Flies. A piece of classic literature displaying profound insights about the fragility of society and life through expertly wielded metaphors and precise language, I would highly recommend this book to all adults and high school readers. This dystopian work is an essential piece to any high school or public library collection. Citation Golding, W. (1954). Lord of the flies. New York, NY: Penguin Group (USA) Inc.
Lord of the flies centenary edition. (2019) Retrieved from https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/300685/lord-of-the-flies-centenary-edition- by-william-golding/9780399537424/ Image Figure 1. Cover Image of Stargirl from Amazon Evaluation of Book Strumming a ukulele straight into readers hearts, Stargirl blooms in the desert of Mica, Arizona , transforming the lives of the entire community around her. Jerry Spinelli, author of Stargirl, has developed a moving and captivating story through utilization of an effervescent character, surreal setting, and an enrapturing plot. Stargirl is an oddity amongst the Mica High culture, and because of this, ultimately attracts their attention. Singing happy birthday in the cafeteria to every student, cheering for both teams during games, and going on adventures with her rat, Cinnamon, Stargirl is a rounded, multi-faceted character that readers will be compelled to continue reading more about. What could Stargirl possibly be up to next? "She was the faintest scent of a cactus flower, the flitting shadow of an elf owl. We did not know what to make of her" (Spinelli, 2000, p. 15). Set in the Arizona desert, Jerry Spinelli utilizes setting to emphasize the mystique that the boundless desert can bring as well as equips his use of figurative language throughout the book with aspects from this setting, "the atmosphere bristled like cactus paddles" (Spinelli, 2000, p. 27). Serving as a symbolic parallel to the uniqueness of Stargirl herself, the desert is referenced by Stargirl and other characters, such as Archie, to be an enchanted place full of wonder and mystery. "Do you believe in enchanted places?" (Spinelli, 2000, p. 85). Opening with the delivery of a mysterious, porcupine necktie, Spinelli tantalizes readers with compelling plot points throughout Stargirl, enticing them to continue turning pages. Everything Stargirl does, as both Mica residents and readers soon find out, is unique and intriguing. With each new event, readers will be urged by the unfolding plot to find out what happens next. Response Growing up in small town with desert scenery in Texas, this book was personally relatable and I thoroughly enjoyed every page. In small, desolate towns, it is the people who make life colorful. Stargirl emphasizes this point, showcasing the joy that one person brings to a humdrum community. Spinelli embeds atmosphere and scenery in every detail within the work, through minor descriptions to full page accounts of the mystique of their surroundings. This compelling piece of literature should be included in every middle school and high school library collection. Not only is this work compelling, it honors the unique scenery of many United States cities as well as celebrates the sparkle that is individuality. Conclusion Forcing readers and characters to acknowledge complacency and seek out expressions of joy and individuality, Stargirl is a coming of age novel that recognizes the tendency to attempt fitting into society's mold and encourages breaking out of these paradigms. Jerry Spinelli emphasizes this idea through a captivating character, magical setting, and compelling plot that entice the reader to relate to Stargirl's overarching theme and continue reading to the very last page. I highly recommend every middle school and high school librarian include this captivating read in their library collection. Whoever reads its pages will be delighted and feel encouraged to walk their own path. Citation Spinelli, J. (2000). Stargirl. New York, NY: Alfred A. Knopf.
Stargirl. (2019). Retrieved from https://www.amazon.com/Stargirl-Jerry-Spinelli/dp/037582233X Image Figure 1. Cover Image of The Bad Beginning from Wikipedia Evaluation of Book Orphans with dreary possibilities ahead of them, the three Baudelaire children must work together to escape unimaginable and dire circumstances. Lemony Snicket's forthright, bleak tone, sensational plot, and overarching tension in the first book of A Series of Unfortunate Events Series, The Bad Beginning, create a piece of entertaining and unique literature that readers will surely be captivated by. "In this book, not only is there no happy ending, there is no happy beginning and very few happy things in the middle" (Snicket, 1999, p. 1). Within the very first page, Snicket is straightforward in creating a bleak and foreboding tone. Throughout the novel, Snicket will often take on a narrative's perspective to the Baudelaire's unfortunate events, creating an intentionally dismal tone overall. An unreasonable count, hostage situations, and child labor are among the many unfortunate events that now plague the Baudelaire children. It seems as though fate and Count Olaf always have a trick up their sleeves. Snicket uses inconceivable events to propel readers through a captivating plot that will leave readers wanting to know what is next for the poor, misfortunate Baudelaire children. Fostering an insatiable sense of suspense within the pages, Snicket utilizes tension to keep reader's enthralled with his book's overarching plot. Inconceivable events, propelled by adults in their lives, leave the Baudelaire children and readers alike feeling shocked at the terrible misfortune that ensues. Seeking out solutions or help around, they are thwarted around every corner. How will they ever get out of their predicament?! Response A Series of Unfortunate Events portrays the interesting and unique perspective of, what if everything and anything went wrong. Children, who are always taught to rely on adults will feel tension oozing from the pages as adults not only do not help the children, but attempt to thwart their every move. I think a lot of children's books often take the stance of, it will all work out in the end. A Bad Beginning takes on a unique stance, being straightforward from the beginning, stating that the events that take place within the pages lead to nothing but misfortune. This distinctive children's book will have readers voracious to know what happens next in following books within the series. As an upper elementary teacher, I feel that my students will appreciate how Snicket presents them with events that assume they can handle a book of a higher maturity level written at their level. Plus, it is always entertaining to see the children of a story outwit the adults. Overall, A Bad Beginning is a fantastic and enthralling start to an assumedly captivating series. I look forward to reading the remainder of the books within Lemony Snicket's, A Series of Unfortunate Events, and highly recommend this series to be included in elementary library collections. Conclusion Recently put under the custody of a count determined to swipe their fortune, three orphans must overcome all odds to prevent their insidious guardian's schemes. Employing a straightforward, bleak tone, a captivating plot, and undeniable tension, Lemony Snicket has creating an enrapturing first book, A Bad Beginning, for his series, A Series of Unfortunate Events. I highly recommend acquiring this book for elementary library and upper grade elementary classroom collections, as readers will undoubtably seek out subsequent works in this series. Citation Snicket, L. (1999). The bad beginning. New York, NY: HarperCollins Publishers Inc.
The Bad Beginning. (2019). Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Bad_Beginning Image Figure 1. Cover Image of The Magic Misfits from Barnes & Noble Evaluation of Book Magic and mischief abound in Neil Patrick Harris's book, The Magic Misfits. Carter, an orphan looking for a better life away from the prying hands of his uncle, finds himself in the midst of a group of misfits and mystery of epic proportions. Infusing a magical and unique plot, setting, and pacing, Neil Patrick Harris has created an entertain mystery read for elementary readers. Starting from the very first chapters, readers are engrossed in a high stakes plot as Carter works against the clock to correct a diamond heist and catch a train out of town before his uncle Sly can catch him. "He wasn't sure what they were carrying, but he had a feeling it wasn't something good" (Harris, 2017, p. 34). At the mercy of his cargo train, Carter soon finds himself in Mineral Wells, witnessing some suspicious behavior by a group of clowns. Soon, Carter discovers a carnival in town, a captivating magic shop owner, and a group of friends that catapult Carter into a grand adventure of unveiling the plot of the sinister clown, Bosso. Carnivals, magic shops, and the picturesque town of Mineral Wells, transport readers to a unique setting, most likely never considered or read about by readers in combination. Carter's overwhelming, foreboding feelings about Bosso and the carnies is mirrored in the carnival setting where everything is meant to bamboozle and swindle. "It's fake, Carter thought. They're all fake" (Harris, 2017, p. 41). Harris counters these negative feelings and setting with Vernon's magic shop, a place in which magician prodigees come to learn slight of hand to delight rather than trick. Between the carnival and the magic shop, Harris captures a vibrant set of settings that elicit the characters' and readers' strong emotional reactions. Throughout The Magic Misfits, Harris speaks to the readers directly, pausing the story's overarching plot for learning card tricks, solving secret codes, and taking snack breaks. This pacing breaks the story up for readers, and allows them to interact with the book directly. Whether it's learning a magic trick that Carter performs, or solving a clue that foreshadows what is to come in the plot, readers will be caught up in Harris's asides. Response Clowns, mystery, and mischief abounding sounds like the perfect recipe for an entrancing mystery novel. However, due to Harris's choice of pacing, pausing the story and plot for off topic card tricks and snack breaks, I felt that this story was difficult to get into. From the perspective of a child who is still learning to love reading, I can see the intrigue in pausing to solve a secret code or learn a magic trick. Though for readers who already enjoy a good story, this pacing can be irritating, delaying the plot and causing the reader to unnecessarily wait. Additionally, as an upper elementary teacher, I know first hand how students wish to be treated as mature individuals. I feel that Harris may risk students feeling patronized with this work. With aspects such as criminal clowns and diamond heists, there are many positive aspects to The Magic Misfits, but due to the pacing pandering to a younger audience, I personally did not feel that this work was a piece of quality literature. Conclusion Criminal clowns with bags of loot, diamond heists, and young magicians, The Magic Misfits may be enjoyed by a mystery seeker looking to solve secret codes and learn some tricks of their own. Neil Patrick Harris employs a unique plot and setting in his work, The Magic Misfits, that causes readers to be transported to a distinctive world in which clowns and magicians take center stage. Due to Harris's pacing, in which he takes frequent asides to talk to readers directly, I am not personally recommending this work to all readers. Though, if librarians and teachers know of a reluctant reader who would be intrigued by taking breaks to learn a magic trick or two, this would be a great choice for that specific reader. Citation Harris, N. P. (2017). The magic misfits. New York, NY: Little, Brown and Company.
The Magic Misfits. (2019). Retrieved from https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-magic- misfits-neil-patrick-harris/1125424404#/ Image Figure 1. Cover Image of The Stinky Cheese Man and other Fairly Stupid Tales from Amazon Evaluation of Book Depicting classic fairytales with zany twists, The Stinky Cheese Man and other Fairly Stupid Tales by Jon Scieszka and Lane Smith, is a humorous and engaging short story compilation that is easily enjoyed by both young readers and those young at heart. Depicting spins on the classic jack and the bean stalk and the princess and the pea, Scieszka creates intriguing, developed characters while Smith develops the plot through illustrations that are stylistically and strategically composed. The Stinky Cheese Man and other Fairly Stupid Tales is many mini plots, the collected stories, within an overarching plot, Jack the narrator attempting to outwit his giant while wrangling all of the book characters to cooperate accordingly. Developing this plot, Lane Smith utilizes illustrations that communicate the chaos ensuing. One prime example of this is Jack forgetting to include the table of contents at the beginning of the book. Due to this mishap, Chicken Licken and his story's characters are berated with falling page numbers and eventually crushed by the entire table of contents. Smith's illustrations additionally utilize composition to develop these plots. For example, when Jack's giant comes literally stomping onto the page, Jack's words are literally squashed under the giant's shoe. Scieszka depicts the two different perspectives, Jack's and the giant's, by utilizing all caps for the giant's font, and a smaller type face representing Jack. "Could you please stop talking in uppercase letters? It really messes up the page" (Scieszka, 1992). Within this two page spread, the illustrations depict Jack and his story literally being squashed, and finally, outraged by the end of the conversation, you see the giant hacking away at the book. Later, Smith humorously places the endpaper to the book within the ongoing story, as Jack explains, to fool the giant into thinking the story is over. Melodramas ensue as stories are spoiled, characters must wait their turn, and characters feel left out. Traditionally, fairy tales are known for their flat characters who happen upon their plots. However, in The Stinky Cheese Man and other Fairly Stupid Tales, just as their plots have been taken for a spin, so has this traditional paradigm. Akin to temperamental starlets, the characters of this book are multifaceted in their story personas versus their off the page personalities. Exemplifying this point are the characters of the wolf and Little Red Running Shorts. When Jack gives away their story's ending, the reader can see the silhouettes of content book characters portraying a story while an angry wolf and Little Red Running Shorts stalk off the page. Response Depicting archetype fairy tale characters with attitude and personal opinions, The Stinky Cheese Man and other Fairly Stupid Tales challenges readers' perspectives on what they know about fairy tales, classic fairy tale plots, and how a book should have plot only between title page and endpaper. Including the book setup in the plot such as the table of contents and book dedication, Scieszka and Smith will have readers in fits of laughter, unraveling the traditional makeup of a book's contents. As many others also have experienced, I grew up learning and knowing the names and plots of traditional fairy tales and folklore. Taking a turn into nonsense, this book builds off of this prior knowledge and creates humor out of it. Overall, The Stinky Cheese Man and other Fairly Stupid Tales is an entertaining book with clever, detailed illustrations that will have readers making connections with prior knowledge left and right. I highly recommend this book to all elementary classroom and library collections. Conclusion Drama, intrigue, and nonsense compound into one extremely entertaining story, as Jack the narrator introduces you to many familiar but slightly altered characters and stories. Chaos ensues as pages fall from the sky and characters lose their tempers. Jon Scieszka and Lane Smith have created a completely unique work full of dynamic characters, and illustrations that develop the plot through strategic and artfully composed illustrations. Adults and children alike will love revisiting their beloved fairy tales now with humorous twists. The Stinky Cheese Man and other Fairly Stupid Tales is an asset to any library collection that has this piece within their collection. Citation Scieszka, J. (1992). The stinky cheese man and other fairly stupid tales. New York, NY: Penguin
Group. The Stinky Cheese Man and other Fairly Stupid Tales. (2019). Retrieved from https://www.amazon.com/Stinky-Cheese-Other-Fairly-Stupid/dp/067084487X Image Figure 1. Cover Image of The Rainbow Fish from Amazon Evaluation of Book What is the point of have extravagant posessions if there is no one to admire them? In The Rainbow Fish by Marcus Pfister, readers are able to witness Rainbow Fish's transformation from being beautiful on the outside to exuding beauty from within. Pfister achieves portraying this metamorphosis through utilizing illustrations rich in texture and color, and presenting Rainbow Fish as a rounded and relatable character who grows emotionally before readers eyes. Pfister transports readers to the depths of the ocean through his use of cool toned illustrations. The predominate blue and green colors not only transport readers, but also aid in showcasing Rainbow Fish as the central focus in the two page spreads within. Though there are some touches of warm colors in the book within the scenery, these are predominately seen on Rainbow Fish himself, accurately portraying him as the central focus of the story. Cool tones meld together, creating varying hues and opacity through Pfister's choice of utilizing watercolor as his primary medium for this work. This texture provides an excellent background for Rainbow fish, accurately depicting a true oceanic setting and allowing Rainbow Fish's iconic, silver scales to prominently stand out. A source of contention between the fish community, Pfister employs the metallic scales in symbolizing Rainbow Fish's growth throughout the story. At first, Rainbow Fish is covered in these glimmering scales. Starting with giving one single scale, Rainbow Fish is soon surrounded by an ocean of shimmering friends. Rainbow fish is a rounded and relatable character, a feat difficult to achieve in a short, picture book. Throughout the story, readers able to watch Rainbow Fish grow socially and emotionally through Pfister's story. At first, shocked and outraged, Rainbow Fish could not possibly think of parting with even one single scale, "You want me to give you one of my special scales? Who do you think you are?" Once isolated by his selfishness, he became extremely lonely. Consulting a wise octopus, Rainbow Fish realizes what he must do and shares just one, small scale. Overwhelmed by a "peculiar feeling", Rainbow fish begins to share his scales amongst other fish and grows rich in friends. He realizes that though he has parted with his "most prized possessions", he was now "very happy". Response Tackling the lesson of being rich in friends and relationships, is more worthwhile than being rich in material possessions, The Rainbow Fish takes readers on Rainbow Fish's journey to happiness. As humans, we are born prone with selfish tendencies, consistently thinking of personal wants and needs. Young children, needing to begin fostering relationships, often struggle with recognizing the joy and satisfaction that can come through sharing personal items of enjoyment. Resonating with many religious philosophies including christianity, the idea of generosity is a universal theme that is sometimes difficult to fully comprehend at such a young age. In my opinion, Marcus Pfeister achieves this goal through The Rainbow Fish in addition to providing in overall, entertaining story with vividly memorable illustrations. This is a book I have personally used when teaching preschoolers in the past, and I highly recommend others using with their young readers. Conclusion "Sharing is caring", the age old anthem of preschool and kindergarten teachers world wide, is a difficult construct for young children to not only practice but also understand. Through richly colored and textured illustrations, along with the compelling and relatable character of Rainbow Fish, young readers can begin to understand and recognize their personal yearnings for holding onto material possessions, but then understanding friends and relationships outweigh those selfish desires. Having used this book as a tool in my own preschool classroom, I highly recommend obtaining a copy of The Rainbow Fish for preschool and elementary library collections. Citation Pfister, M. (1992). The rainbow fish. New York, NY: NorthSouth Books Inc.
The Rainbow Fish. (2019). Retrieved from https://www.amazon.com/Rainbow-Fish-Marcus- Pfister/dp/1558580093 Image Figure 1. Cover Image of The Sandwich Swap from Amazon Evaluation of Book Just because you are friends, does not mean you always like the same hobbies, games, or even sandwiches. Beautifully illustrating this important lesson, her majesty Queen Rania Al Abudullah, Kelly DiPucchio, and Tricia Tusa utilize illustrations steaped in texture that effectively develop the characters of Friends Salma and Lily, as well as imagery in the language that transports readers and allows them to experience the same emotions and tastes as the characters. Salma and Lily are elementary school girls, whose biggest worry in the world is their best friend not appreciating their own favorite sandwich. This stage of life is artfully represented through Tricia Tusa's use of whimsical textures throughout the book. Tricia utilizes loose graphite line drawings with watercolor, giving her pictures a softer and more youthful appearance, reflecting the intended audience. Throughout Tricia's illustrations, readers can see more than what is expressed in the words on the page. They are able to engage with Salma and Lily's changing emotions as they experience joy being in one another's company, disappointment and hurt from a friend's hurtful words, and loss when they no longer feel like playing together. Tricia Tusa's illustrations help the reader engage with book and develop both Salma and Lily's characters through detailed facial expressions and body language. Why were Salma and Lily so hurt when their friend didn't like their sandwich? The authors are able to give you this perspective through expertly wielded imagery. Salma's humus sandwich is not just "thin, soft bread", it was also prepared by her "beautiful, smiling mother" who "carefully" prepared Salma's sandwich for her that morning. Lily's peanut butter and jelly sandwich was not just "thick, squishy bread" cut into "two perfect triangles", it was lovingly prepared for her by her dad in a "silly apron, whistling" that morning. The imagery within The Sandwich Swap helps readers envision not only what Salma and Lily see right before them, but also perceive the family love represented by each girl's sandwich. Response Celebrating differences through peanut butter, jelly, and humus, the Sandwich Swap shows readers that not only is it okay to be different, embracing differences may lead you to new, exciting discoveries and tastes! It is an important lesson for children to learn that their words, though they think may be sympathetic, can be hurtful on many levels. Salma and Lily feel bad for each other, perceiving the other's sandwich as gross or icky. However, each girl takes pride in her own sandwich and the loving hands that prepared it for them. When their friend disapproves, they are not only disapproving of their lunch choice, but their loved ones and culture. The Sandwich Swap is a heartwarming and entertaining piece of literature that will be engaging and helpful for young readers. I highly recommend this multicultural read for elementary library collections, and kindergarten through second grade teachers' classroom collections. Multicultural texts that show differences should be embraced and celebrated, are an asset to every school community. Conclusion Can you still be friends with someone if you prefer peanut butter and jelly but they like hummus? Aiming to answer this age old question, The Sandwich Swap utilizes whimsical, textured illustrations that communicate the age and innocence of its characters while depicting their growth throughout their friendship rough patch, and imagery within the written text showcasing the experiences and emotions each character experiences along her journey. The Sandwich Swap is a multicultural book that voices the important life lesson that differences should be respected. I believe this book would be an asset to any elementary library or kindergarten through second grade classroom collection. Citation Al Abdullah, R., & DiPucchio, K. (2010). The sandwich swap. New York, NY: Disney Hyperion.
The Sandwich Swap. (2019). Retrieved from https://www.amazon.com/Sandwich-Queen- Rania-Jordan-Abdullah/dp/1423124847 Image Figure 1. Cover Image of Penny and Her Marble from Barnes & Noble Evaluation of Book On grand adventures, one sometimes encounters fabulous treasures. It is sometimes hard to believe that such a fabulous treasure would ever be unwanted. In Penny and Her Marble, a book within Kevin Henkes Penny series, Penny finds herself in a predicament over deciding whether to hold onto her treasure or return it to its rightful owner. Through illustrations that develop characters and reinforce text, coupled with imagery throughout the text, Henkes has created an accessible book for young readers that is relatable and engaging. As part of a reader series, it is imperative that illustrations function in part to assist the reader in accessing unknown vocabulary. Kevin Henkes's illustrations follow Penny on her adventure and showcase the imagery and events that are dictated by the story's written text. In this way, Henkes has created an accessible book for beginning readers. If they have difficulty with the language, they can utilize the provided illustrations for hints and context clues. Providing an important lesson, making sure you are not taking what doesn't belong to you, the reader is able to see Penny's progression of feeling as the plot progresses through Henkes illustrations. Though the author does not specifically say that Penny is nervous, worried, or feels guilty, the reader can see this development of character through the illustrations. Penny's facial expression within the pictures develop her character and allow the reader to have a clearer perspective on Penny's feelings throughout the story. Henkes does not only express Penny's feelings through illustrations. Additionally, he utilizes imagery to relay Penny's feelings about the marble as she has mixed feelings of excitement and guilt. When Penny first happens upon the marble, she describes it is "big, shiny", and "like a piece of the sky". As Penny's delight begins to be replaced by guilt and worry, her descriptions of her marble begin to change. Now the marble "felt as heavy as a rock". Imagery takes the reader along on Penny's journey through the neighborhood, but also on her emotional journey as she weighs what to do about her marble. Response Taking something that does not belong to you is an important lesson to learn on children's journey to discovering what is right and wrong. The complex emotions involved, joy over your new found treasure and worry that the other person is missing their item, are sometimes difficult to communicate. Penny and Her Marble by Kevin Henkes allows students to learn this lesson through an engaging and attainable tale that showcases the reward in doing what is right. Once Penny finally decides to approach Mrs. Goodwin about the marble, she ultimately gets to keep her treasure in the end. Learning right and wrong is a difficult task. Penny and Her MarbleI gives teachers, parents, and students a tool in helping lead the way to making good decisions in the future. I would highly recommend this book to first and second grade emerging readers. Conclusion When a beautiful, shiny piece of the sky ends up in your pocket, you will want to hold on tight. Though Penny is thrilled with her fabulous new treasure, she worries that Mrs. Goodwin is missing her exquisite marble. Torn between deciding what is right, to hold onto her marble or approach Mrs. Goodwin about her find, Penny's emotional journey is captured by Henkes's illustrations that develop Penny's character and reinforce text, along with a story stocked with imagery. Emerging readers will enjoy reading Penny and Her Marble, and feel that the Penny series as a whole would be an asset to first grade and second grade classrooms along with libraries that provide materials to these young readers. Citation Henkes, K. (2013). Penny and her marble. New York, NY: HarperCollins Publishers.
Penny and Her Marble. (2019). Retrieved from https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/penny-and- her-marble-kevin-henkes/1110178649?ean=9780062082039#/ Image Figure 1. Cover Image of School's First Day of School from Amazon Evaluation of Book First days are hard. You don't know what to expect. School's First Day of School by Adam Rex beautifully communicates this feeling from an unlikely perspective, the school building. Through images that are full of texture and reinforce the text, along with the unique utilization of personification of an elementary school, Adam Rex and Christian Robinson showcase the nervousness and excitement that goes into a first day of school Making the reader relive their finger painting glory days, Christian Robinson utilizes textures of paint and cut paper to create collages that mimic the simplicity of elementary school. These images transport the reader to a primary classroom, with simple shapes and vibrant colors. Geared towards kindergarten and first grade students, Christian Robinson's illustrations additionally reinforce the text for students who are still having books read to them and learning how to read. As the book is read, students can see the expressions of the "very small girl with freckles", envision the classroom environment that Adam Rex is describing, and are given numerous other visual clues through the strategic use of illustration. Illustrations reinforcing text are key for this younger demographic. Students will instantly relate to the nervous, Frederick Douglas Elementary, experiencing school for the first time. Adam Rex aptly uses the figurative language device of personification to engage readers in a story about the nervous feelings involved in a first day of school, but delightfully represents these feelings through the lens of the school itself. I think this different vantage point allows students the freedom to acknowledge their own trepidations while recognizing that others are feeling the same way as them. Response As we go through life, we will continue to experience first days. It is helpful to acknowledge that we are not alone in these feelings of apprehension, others feel nervous too. According to my mother, I was a nervous wreck the first day of kindergarten. When I came home I exclaimed, "Mom, it was everyone else's first day too!" The relief I gained from realizing this simple fact made a world of difference. I believe School's First Day of School can provide this same comfort to many other kindergarten students who are unaware that their first day jitters are shared by others. This piece of literature has beautiful illustrations and delivers a fun, engaging storyline that teaches students an important lesson. School's First Day of School would be an asset to any elementary school library or primary grade classroom. Conclusion Did you know that school's have first days too? In Adam Rex's book, School's First Day of School, the reader embarks on a well known journey, the first day of school, but from the perspective of the elementary school! Readers will find Christian Robinson's illustrations delightful, full of texture, and follow along with them as they reinforce the text. Nervous kindergarten and first grade students will adore this personified tale. I highly recommend this book to teachers and young readers. Citation Rex, A. (2016). School's first day of school. New York, NY: Roaring Book Press.
School's First Day of School. (2019). Retrieved from https://www.amazon.com/Schools-First- Day-School-Adam-ebook/dp/B01GNZ9JXY |
AuthorMy name is Mackenzie Wright. I am currently a teacher in the Austin area, and am pursuing my Master's in school librarianship through UNT. This blog is dedicated to reviewing children's literature from a variety of genres. Archives
May 2019
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