Rules

Lord, Cynthia.  2006.  Rules.  New York: Scholastic Press.  ISBN 9780439443821

Summer vacation for Catherine isn’t free and uncomplicated. Her responsibilities as a sister to her autistic brother, David, are paramount, and she tries to teach him what is right and wrong through a list of rules:

“No toys in the fish tank.”
“If the bathroom door is locked, knock (especially if Catherine has a friend over)!”
“Sometimes people laugh when they like you, but sometimes they laugh to hurt you…”

With the arrival of a new neighbor, Kristi, who is just Catherine’s age, she hopes that she will find a friend to escape with over the coming months…if David doesn’t embarrass her and mess it all up.

At twelve years old, Catherine feels the urge to protect her brother from insult and derision, while also feeling embarrassed the abnormality of her home-life compared to her school-life.

When she makes an unexpected friend in Jason, wheelchair-bound and mute, at her brother’s occupational therapy office, she is forced to realize that she is just as capable of doing harm as others, and is forced to think about what friendship really means.

Catherine narrates as we follow her through her summer toward her better understanding of the balance between her actions and the feelings of others.

This is an intriguing look into the lives of the family members of handicapped children. Lord has created a humorous and sometimes painful story which allows the reader to experience vicariously the constancy and complexity of autism within a family.

These characters are both strong and frail in their daily struggles, making them more believable and relatable for it. Rules will serve as a humbling introduction for young adult readers to a better understanding of the similarities between themselves and others who may seem different.

Rules has won the Schneider Family Book Award (2007), Skipping Stones Honor Award (2007) for Multicultural and International Awareness, Mitten Award (2006), and was named as a John Newbery Medal Honor Book (2007).

“A heartwarming first novel.” (Booklist/February 2006)

"…it may encourage readers to consider the benefits and challenges of their own families and friends." (The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books/May 2006)

"The emotions in this fast-paced novel ring true." (Horn Book Guide/Fall 2006)

The First Part Last

Johnson, Angela.  2003.  The First Part Last.  New York: Simon and Schuster.  ISBN 9780689849220

A story of love and responsibility, The First Part Last poignantly acquaints the reader with the course Bobby’s life has and is taking from learning he will be a father to fulfilling that role.

Set in New York, the pace of the story juxtaposes the fast nature of the city and the lives of the inhabitants. Parts of the story are hidden from the reader by dual narratives, alternating between past and present, which progressively guide the reader toward the moment of comprehension when the stories converge.

Johnson has written a quick, yet heartfelt, book that is both relevant and educational for today’s youth; additionally, with all of its un-romanticized truth, it is not overly allegorical.

The diverse characters are believable in their actions, reactions and personalities, and, though part of definable social classes, none are stereotyped and all maintain individuality.

Bobby’s narration is distinctive as he moves from young and virtually carefree to young and more responsible, as we see him at the close of the book. The development of the themes and characters are well-developed and show a range of outlooks and emotions as the story is told.

The First Part Last has been included in many best books lists and is the winner of several awards including: 2004 Coretta Scot King Book Award, 2004 Michael L. Printz Award, 2003 Teens’ Top Ten List, and 2006 Green Mountain Book Award (Vermont).

“Johnson makes poetry with the simplest words in short, spare sentences that teens will read again and again.” (Booklist/September 2003)

"Johnson has a way of getting to her readers' emotions with few words, creating characters we really care about." (KLIATT/May 2003)

"Realistic characters, an honest look at teen pregnancy, and Bobby's thoughts and dreams combine in a wonderful novel sure to appeal to most young adult readers." (VOYA/June 2003)

Rapunzel's Revenge

Hale, Shannon and Dean Hale.  2008.  Rapunzel's Revenge.  Ill. Nathan Hale.  New York: Bloomsbury U.S.A. Children's Books.  ISBN 9781599900704

When Rapunzel finds that she was kidnapped as a small child the woman she thought was her mother locks her away.

Rapunzel frees herself and learns that the evil ways of her adopted mother, Gothel, were not reserved only for her, but the heartache and depression across the land have been caused by Gothel’s reign.

Rapunzel’s cohort, Jack, helps her find courage and strength throughout their adventures, all the while toting a goose that just won’t lay a seemingly innocuous egg. Jack, in turn, is given a purpose to abandon his vigilante life, as he helps Rapunzel seek revenge and justice.

This graphic novel tells a story of growth, revenge, love and friendship that is both entertaining and absorbing. The colorful illustrations and witticisms complement each other in the telling, and the reader is allowed to experience the actions and emotions of the main characters as a result.

The illustrations, including a detailed map of “Gothel’s Reach,” are convincing in their portrayal of Rapunzel’s world. The plight made real by the presence of the barren lands and affected characters.

This story re-introduces us to classic fairytale characters in a new way, and the heroine’s determination to pursue justice by honorable means is a particularly relevant theme to offer young readers at any time.

Rapunzel's Revenge is the recipient of the 2008 Cybils (Winner Graphic Novels) for elementary/middle grades in the United States.

“Rich with humor and excitement, this is an alternate version of a classic that will become a fast favorite of young readers.” (Booklist/September 2008)

"The dialogue is witty, the story is an enticing departure from the original, and the illustrations are magically fun and expressive." (School Library Journal/Septermber 2008)

"...Nathan Hale’s full-color panel illustrations fulfill the possibilities of this witty tale full of long-haired heroism." (CCBC/2009)

Hard Gold: the Colorado Gold Rush of 1859

Avi.  2008.  Hard Gold: the Colorado Gold Rush of 1859.  New York: Hyperion Books for Children..  ISBN 9781423105190

Early Wittcomb, at the age of fourteen, embarks on a seven-hundred mile journey to find his uncle, gold to save the family farm. Early runs away and finds much more than what he sought. Early quickly discovers that the world is not always what it seems and that love, pride, danger and disappointment can be found in unexpected places.

Avi develops the characters in Hard Gold fully. Each voice, small or large, is believable in its fallibility. This, accompanied by the creative, yet convincing, events that occur along the wagon train, forms an authentic telling of a journey out west with the elements of a good plot, which will capture the attention of readers until the lat page.

Most of the book takes a loose diary form, in which Early tells of daily events of the journey. Because of this, his knowledge of historical events and places is imperative to the reader’s understanding of the itinerant setting. On only a couple of occasions, was I brought out of the story to wonder where a farm boy from Iowa would have picked up a specific piece of information.

This book ties in themes of morality, friendship and responsibility, while emphasizing the requirements for survival in dyer economic times. This relevancy to the current economic downturn cannot be ignored; even the importance of small-business is touched upon.

Hard Gold will be an asset to any history, economics or English class, and will undoubtedly ignite a spark of interest in young minds. Avi includes an array of authentic photographs, maps and illustrations throughout, as well as a bibliography, glossary, and author notes, at the end of the book.

“Avi brings to life the Colorado Gold Rush, the wagon train experience, and the lust for easy riches.” (Voice of Youth Advocates/October 2008)

"A rewarding addition." (School Library Journal/Septermber 2008)

"...[its authentic touches of history and adventure are a good combination for readers who might resist straight nonfiction." (Booklist/September 2008)

Elijah of Buxton [sound recording]

Curtis, Christopher Paul.  2008.  Elijah of Buxton.  Read by Mirron Willis. New York: Random House, Inc..  ISBN 9780739364154

Elijah Freeman, the first free-born child in the free settlement of Buxton, Canada, takes the journey through childhood in this artistic representation of life in the 19th century. The story follows Elijah through his daily life until he is caught up in the fight for Mr. Leroy’s family.

Elijah’s journey is the final lesson he needs to understand that people cannot always be trusted to do what is right.

In this unabridged audiobook, Mirron Willis adds flare to the characters voices, as Christopher Paul Curtis weaves a plausible tale of the daily lives and personal journeys the people of Buxton could have had. The characters were well-developed, showing a range of emotion and imperfection.

Elijah, and, so, the reader, is presented with lesson after lesson in morality, trust, love and frailty. These themes make an easy connection for young readers today to this time in history, as all children must go through the pangs of growing up.

Willis’ interpretation of the vocal nuances adds much to develop the naiveté of Elijah, as well as to the emotions of other characters.

While the story does engage the reader, the plot is slow to pick up. The seemingly pointless antics of Elijah and his friends in the beginning of the story are made clear before the end, but some readers may be lost before the story truly begins.

This story may be good supplemental reading for young readers wishing for a better understanding of what happened after slaves completed their journey to freedom, and the notes read by the author at the end of the book will help the reader fill in gaps on the history of Buxton that are omitted from, or only alluded to, in the book.

In addition to other honors, Elijah of Buxton is the winner of the 2008 Coretta Scott King Book Award, the 2008 Scott O’Dell Award for Historical Fiction, and a 2008 John Newbery Honor Book recipient.

“This engrossing tale is read by Mirron Willis who effortlessly varies his rich, textured voice to make each character unique.” (School Library Journal/July 2008)

"A fine, original novel from a gifted storyteller." (Booklist/September 2007)

The Witch of Blackbird Pond

Speare, Elizabeth George.  1958.  The Witch of Blackbird Pond.  New York: Bantam Doubleday Dell Publishing Group, Inc..  ISBN 0440495962

The Witch of Blackbird Pond is the story of Kit Tyler’s first year in America. Moved from Barbados after the death of her grandfather, the idealistic and pampered girl is shocked to find her family’s way of life in Connecticut so rustic.

Kit quickly learns that the simple way of life is not the only barrier which she must scale. The puritanical views of the townsfolk toward other beliefs, the unknown and the King of England will separate her from many of her new neighbors, and eventually lay suspicion upon her.

Learning to fit in while keeping her own identity and staying true to those who she considers friends, even in the face of adversity, are things with which Kit must cope.

This classic novel tells a somewhat predictable story, but it is no less engaging for it. The authentic setting, believable characters and vivid descriptions make this an enjoyable and relatable story.

The inconsistent tense was distracting in places, but the accurate representation of the learning methods, daily work and ideals of the townsfolk made the novel more than worthwhile.

This story certainly reflects the moral standards of the time, but it also goes a long way to enforce what is considered right today: truth, honor, respect for all. While the dealings with prejudice and bigotry are integral to the story, the themes point the reader to the conclusion that such beliefs are flawed.

An important time in U.S. history and a classic work of historical fiction, The Witch of Blackbird Pond would be an acceptable choice for engaging a child’s interest in 17th century New England.

The Witch of Blackbird Pond is the winner of the John Newbery Medal (1958) and the is listed as an international winner for the International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY) Honor List (1960).

“This book has a lively plot and excellent characterizations. The background has every dimension of reality.” (The New York Times)

The Dinosaurs of Waterhouse Hawkins

Kerley, Barbara.  2001.  The Dinosaurs of Waterhouse Hawkins.  New York: Scholastic, Inc..  ISBN 978043911493

The Dinosaurs of Waterhouse Hawkins is an interesting biography following the inspiration and achievements of Waterhouse, “as he liked to be called,” the designer of the first life-size dinosaur models.

Waterhouse, who wanted to show the world its first conception of dinosaurs, is followed from his workshop where he prepared his first dinosaur models for the Queen to his work as a lecturer and on to his designs for Central Park and their undoing by “Boss” Tweed.

This is a riveting story, and children of all ages will be enthralled by its dinner party inside a dinosaur, a political tyrant’s wrath and the mystery of where in Central Park dinosaur models are buried.

With all of its excitement, this story could easily be a work of fiction; however, the author and illustrator notes at the end of the book tell stories, which are full of interest and humor themselves, of the research involved in creating this book, the sources from which information was gleaned and the supplemental information about other key characters mentioned in the book.

The clear text and flowing storyline easily draws the reader into this unique story, while the illustrations focus on the journey, creativity and vision described throughout the text. The detailed and lively illustrations of Brian Selznick add to the creative tones and artistic theme of the book.

For those interested in dinosaurs, this is an important and little-known part of our history of understanding. This informative and exciting biography would be a wonderful addition to a segment on dinosaurs, artists or history, as all three are elements in Waterhouse Hawkins’ story.

The Dinosaurs of Waterhouse Hawkins is the winner of the ABC Children’s Booksellers Choices Award (2002) and the Garden State Children’s Book Award (2004). It was also selected as an honor book by: Randolph Caldecott Medal (2002), Orbis Pictus Award for Outstanding Nonfiction for Children (2002), and Great Lakes Great Books Award (2003).

“Appealing on many levels, this picture book for older readers will be a favorite dinosaur book for years to come.”(Booklist/Sept. 2001)

"Kerley’s pithy text is a good match for Selznick’s attractive art, which is clear-eyed yet contains a dash of magic." (Horn Book/Spring 2002)

Hitler Youth: growing up in Hitler's shadow

Bartoletti, Susan Campbell.  2005.  Hitler Youth: growing up in Hitler's shadow.  New York: Scholastic Nonfiction.  ISBN 0439353793

Old-fashioned parents and school-yard brawls aren’t read in the same context in Hitler Youth as in other young adult books. Bringing to the surface an uneasy connection between the idea of the misunderstood youth of any generation and the Hitler Youth, Bartoletti details the involvement young Germans had in Hitler’s Germany.

Through the stories of several children who fought for, fought against or were victims of the Nazi regime and through several supporting black and white photographs, this book adds yet another layer to the devastation of the war.

These are sad and startling accounts of young Germans who were lied to by the German government and media and who often had no idea of the broader crimes being committed during the war, as well as the sad, tragic tales of those young Germans and Jews who were silenced by the government for their race, religion, anti-Nazi ideals and activism.

Bartoletti draws her information from personal interviews, journals, published speeches, books and other documentable sources to expose the conditions under which children were raised and educated in Nazi Germany. Particularly helpful tools are the bibliography, which includes notations for additional reading suitable for young readers, and a "Time Line of the Hitler Youth," which outlines major events and their corresponding years.

A scarring part of history, this book and its stories will be an indelible source for students learning about World War II. The stories affecting so many school-aged children may also create a new understanding of the ideologies of the time for today’s youth, for, in addition to their perceptions and accounts pertaining to the war, its crimes and its causes, the children’s accounts also touch on broader themes of family, camaraderie and respect.

This is a haunting, yet extraordinary, work of informational literature in which the author is able to allow the unadulterated stories of victim, hero and villain to be told.

Hitler Youth: growing up in Hitler’s shadow is the winner of the Carolyn W. Field Award (2006) and the Top of the List Editors’ Choice (2005). It has also received the following honors: John Newbery Medal (2006), Orbis Pictus Award for Outstanding Nonfiction for Children (2005), Parents’ Choice Award-Gold (2005), and the Robert F. Sibert Informational Book Medal (2006).

“This solid offering deserves wide readership by today's young people, and it is certain to promote extensive discussion.”(Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books/June 2005)

"...this superb book is unreservedly recommended for middle school and high school readers." (Association of Jewish Libraries Newsletter/Sept./Oct. 2005)

The Brain: our nervous system

Simon, Seymour.  1997.  The Brain: our nervous system.  New York: HarperCollins Publishers.  ISBN 9780060877187

“Wiggle your toes. Scratch your nose. Take a deep breath and yawn.” These are Simon’s opening words and instructions leading to the basic idea that all of these things are controlled by the brain.

In this revised edition The Brain, Simon continues to intrigue, excite and explain the machinations of the human brain. Having teamed up with the Smithsonian Institute for the production of his science books, Simon has produced another informative piece of work that has the backing of one of America’s most reputable institutions.

With his deliberate and approachable text, The Brain is able to engage young readers while educating them: “The cerebellum is the part of your brain that lets you drink water without spilling it…”

Designed to grab the attention of the researcher or casual page-flipper, this book is filled with vivid and relevant photographs, micrographs, and drawings that provide the reader with visual depictions of what the text describes. A photography note in the beginning of the book explains how many of the incredible pictures are possible.

Each page of text describes a slightly different aspect of the brain and its functions as one makes head-way through the book. Any of these pages could be viewed in varying orders depending on the interest of the reader; however, there is no index or glossary, so the reader may have more difficulty reading the book out of its printed order without prior knowledge of the terms used.

Easily, this book could be incorporated into lesson plans, anatomy displays or in connection with any neurological discussion (maybe an introduction to neurological disorders if a child’s family is being affected).

This is a fascinating look at the human brain that will have kids’ minds reeling with information.

The Brain: our nervous system (1997) is the recipient of the 1998 Orbis Pictus Award for Outstanding Nonfiction for Children. This review is based on the 2006, revised, edition.

“The variety of the photographic views and the lucid presentation provide an absorbing introduction to this amazing system…”(Horn Book Review/Spring 2007)

Once Upon A Tomb: gravely humorous verses

Lewis, J. Patrick. 2006. Once Upon A Tomb: gravely humorous verses. Ill. Simon Bartram. Cambridge: Candlewick Press. ISBN 0763618373

Mostly humorous, but sometimes cautionary, J. Patrick Lewis treats his readers to poetic humor about death.

Lewis‘ rhymes take the forms of elegies, epitaphs and eulogies for the dearly departed from twenty-two various professions. From a gardener to a book editor, tattoo artist to poet, the quippy lines have the reader chuckling about death.

Though each has its own rhythm and meter, all are easy and fun to read aloud. Some of the poems include a great deal of imagery (“Soccer Player”), while others, if not most, focus primarily on the characteristics of the deceased (“Cafeteria Lady”).

As a result, these poems are far from morbid, and somehow achieve, for the most part, the rare balance between humor and reverence in dealing with the subject of death.

This is balance is not disrupted by the detailed drawings that accompany each poem. Bartram’s artwork easily and thoroughly interprets the poems in whimsical, sad, and ironic ways.

The subject matter may not be the preferred flavor for every reader, but, overall, the book is presented tastefully and in a way that does not offend.

"This rare look at the lighter side of death should elicit plenty of surprised giggles from young audiences." (Booklist/August 2006)

"A great selection for a Halloween read-aloud or reluctant poetry readers." (School Library Journal/August 2006)

Central Heating: poems about fire and warmth

Singer, Marilyn. 2005. Central Heating: Poems about fire and warmth. Ill. Meilo So. New York: Alfred A. Knopf. ISBN 0375829121

Marilyn Singer has created a wonderfully intense and thought-provoking book of poetry. Fire is the motif here; an inventive addition to the book’s two companion compilations about water and earth.

Each poem focuses on a different aspect of fire or warmth, and, in turn, reminds the reader of the ways fire amuses, frightens, teaches and interests us in nature, daily life and celebration.

Singer primarily uses free verse but uses rhyme and rhythm effectively, so the less conventional style of poetry is not awkward for younger readers. In “Forged,” she repeats the first lines throughout (with small changes) providing consistency: (To understand metal/make friends with fire)…(To understand fire/get to know wood)…(To understand metal/make friends with fire).

Each poem is given a two-page spread to share with the artwork of Meilo So. The exciting lino cuts and wash illustrations accompany the text in glowing, red images that well-suited to the individual poem and the motif.

Singer’s poems evoke powerful images and feelings, intensifying the varying significance fire can bring. These poems would fit well into some or all fire-safety, science, history, Independence Day, birthday, or mythology curriculums and/or celebrations.

The pace of the book is slow, and may be difficult for younger readers to attempt to read the book all at once, but will be a creative asset if read in small, thematic pieces.

"This title…belongs on library shelves everywhere" (School Library Journal/January 2005)

"Its engaging design will surely entice readers to open and read, perhaps in front of their own candle, hearth, or stove." (Kirkus Reviews/December 2004)

Spinning Through the Universe: a novel in poems from Room 214

Frost, Helen.  2004.  Spinning Through the Universe: a novel in poems from Room 214.  New York: Farrar, Straus and Giroux.; ISBN 0374371598

Spinning Through the Universe is told from the perspectives of twenty-six students from room 214, Mrs. Williams, the teacher, and Mr. Carlson, the janitor. Each poem gives insight into one of the story arcs created in the first few poems, and emotions are high for the voice and for the reader.

What is so interesting about this novel is the stark contrast between one student and the next in terms of maturity. The circumstances each of these children describes about themselves and each other are easily relatable to the modern-day troubles placed on this age-group: some have much to worry about, while some have little.

Also of interest is the misinterpretation of the signals a child gives: for instance, Naomi notices EVERYTHING, but appears to be daydreaming most of the time, and Andrew appears at first to not understand the steps involved with his math work but actually grasps the concepts so well, he doesn’t need to work through the steps like the others.

This would be an excellent book for young readers, middle-school age, to help cope with their own woes, understand what others may be going through and as an introduction, to some, of adult concepts to which they may not yet have been exposed.

Additionally, as an introduction to poetry, Helen Frost goes into great detail at the end of the novel in the “Notes on Forms” section. Not only does she describe what type of poetry is used, but she also goes into detail about how she modified them, what other elements are used and general information about poetry. Notes are given on each poem for a thorough understanding of the style in which the poem is written.

Most rhymes are in different styles (22 different types of poem throughout the book), depending on whose voice is being used. The poems are incredibly well-suited to the middle-school age-group in vocabulary and topic, and address serious issues, such as battery, war, homelessness, race issues, cheating, as well as more childish woes like a missing bike, not being allowed a pet, and communication mishaps.

"Readers may be surprised at the complexity of rules governing the writing, so naturally does the author seem to capture the poetic essence of the children's voices..." (Publishers Weekly/April 2004)

"Interwoven dramatic stories and interesting poetic patterns give this book extra appeal." (School Library Journal/April 2004)

"Appropriate, original imagery and understated, natural voices make these poems sensitive and insightful." (Kirkus Reviews/March 2004)

Spinning Through the Universe is the winner of the Lion and the Unicorn Award for Excellence in North American Poetry, 2005.

And The Green Grass Grew All Around: Folk Poetry From Everyone

Schwartz, Alvin.  1992.  And the Green Grass Grew All Around: Folk Poetry from Everyone.  Ill. Sue Truesdell.  New York: Harper Collins.  ISBN 0060227575

From near and far, from city and glen, from times forgot those not, And the Green Grew All Around reminds us all of our childhood taunts and chants, while helping us understand and explore the reasons folk poetry continues to manifest itself throughout the ages. 

Schwartz has collected an impressive variety folk poetry, and presents them in succession according to their theme.  Each chapter offers a new theme in an attempt to create order out of what often seems like silliness.  Folk poems about people, teases and taunts, work, and nonsense are just a few of the chapter headings. 

Where appropriate, bars of music are included to give the musically literate reader an idea of the tune to be used.  "Do You Ears Hang Low", for instance, is paired with the musical notes for Turkey in the Straw. 

The illustrations are scattered on each page to complement one or more of the highlighted poems.  The drawings are done in shades of gray with no other color, though, none is needed.  Sue Truesdell captures the simplicity of the folk poetry's roots while highlighting the complex subject matter with her humorous artwork. 

This book is structured in a way that the reader is led from one poem to another with little separation.  The drawings are often used to separate one poem from the next, and while it is fairly simple to tell by the structure of each piece which goes with which, the unobservant reader might follow the words directly into a new poem rather than a new stanza where only space separates.


In addition to the poems themselves, Schwartz offers detailed notes and source information, so the reader may more fully understand the place these folk poems hold in our society and hearts. 

"Read this outrageous volume before it is shelved; once the kids discover it, it will always be checked out." (School Library Journal/June 1992)

"A wonderful collection for reading, singing, and laughing out loud." (The Horn Book Review/July/August 1992)

Cinder-Elly

Minters, Frances.  1994.  Cinder-Elly.  Ill. G. Brian Karas.  New York: Penguin Books.  ISBN 0670844179

In this rap-style version of Cinderella, Elly’s mother is largely omitted from the story, and the sisters reflect an interracial, modern family. This variation includes all of the elements of the classic English form and may be used to help inner-city children relate to this classic tale, which often takes place in the country long ago using archaic language.

The text corresponds well with this modern setting, but the rhythm of the text is interrupted by forced rhymes in several places. Even so, this book will easily win over fans of the classic tale.

The artwork is also distracting at times, but it remains reflective of the busy atmosphere that is New York City. While the artwork is eye-catching and well-suited, the colored pages blend together and ultimately detract from its effectiveness. Throughout the book, supporting characters are inserted around the text and pictures to interrupt the rhythm of the rap to comment on the story line. While this may not appeal to adults’ tastes, this may help children develop reading comprehension skills by demanding attention be paid to understand the remarks.

This book could be used to encourage children to create their own, updated retellings of stories they are familiar with. It could be a great way to get children thinking about how stories that may seem old can relate to their modern world.

"The story's told in fast-paced rhyme, fun for reading aloud, and the bright illustrations are like street murals, bold and rhythmic." (Booklist/January 1994)

"What the verses lack in ingenuity, the pictures and format make up for with inventive flair." (Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books/April 1994)

The Three Little Tamales

Kimmel, Eric.  2009.  The Three Little Tamales.  Ill. by Valeria Docampo.  Tarrytown: Marshall Cavendish Children.  ISBN 0761455196.

From a taqueria in Texas, three little tamales make their escape. The first builds her home in the prairie out of sagebrush. The second builds with cornstalks in a cornfield, and the third builds her home in the desert out of thorny cactus. Señor Lobo then comes along to huff and puff “like a Texas tornado” at each of the homes in an attempt to eat the tamales. In the end, it is not bricks, but thorny cactus that thwarts his attempts, and Señor Lobo comes in through the chimney to be trapped in a pot and threatened with becoming a wolf-tamale! He runs away, and all is well for the three little tamales who throw a fiesta with their tortilla friends.

The Three Little Tamales by Eric A. Kimmel and illustrated by Valeria Docampo is a version of The Three Little Pigs in which three tamales are personified. Based in Texas and including many strong Hispanic cultural references, this story is retold in a way that will delight those familiar and unfamiliar with this story. The text flows easily and is enticing with its cadence and directness.

Throughout, Kimmel uses Spanish vocabulary intermixed with the English text; in the beginning of the book, there is a glossary of Spanish terms provided for readers’ use. For reading aloud by a novice of the Spanish language, this glossary is particularly useful because of its phonetic spelling of the unfamiliar words.

Being a storyteller himself, Kimmel’s use of rhyme enhances the experience of The Three Little Pigs for generations of Hispanic-American children who may not relate to the traditional tale. Particularly in Texas, children hearing this story in addition to or apart from the conventional tale will not be at a disadvantage.

The themes in the book remain the same as in the traditional telling: good vs. evil, and good wins with the help of a well-lain plan. The tamales are simply a part of both Texas and Hispanic heritage, and the re-telling does not include stereotypical characters to which any could take offense. The incorporation of Spanish words in the English book is a sign of the shift in Texas demographics, and in no way should be interpreted as a belittlement of Hispanic cultures.

The pictures are colorful, fun and cartoonish in nature; Docampo expresses the wide-open spaces that can be found in Texas effectively and without leaving the formatting too loose.  This book would be well-suited to coincide with a celebration of Hispanic-American culture, Texas-themed curricula or a study of variations of traditional literature.

“An excellent addition to collections of fairy-tale retellings…” (Booklist/March 2009)

“The colorful artwork combines with a text brimming with humor and sound effects ("Ay! Ay! Ay!") for a delightful parody sure to satisfy readers' appetite for fun.” (Scool Library Journal/June 2009)

The Hello, Goodbye Window

Juster, Norton.  2005.  The Hello, Goodbye Window.  Ill. by Chris Raschka.  Hyperion: Michael Di Capua  Books.  ISBN 0786809140

The Hello, Goodbye Window explores the world of a granddaughter visiting her grandparents for an overnight stay.  The story takes place entirely within the boundaries of the grandparents’ home, usually the kitchen, where the hello, goodbye window is located; however, there are excursions into the yard and garden.  The story takes the reader through the house and the course of the stay by describing those things that are special between grandparents and granddaughter.  

The story follows her intermittently throughout her visit depicting the wonder of daily life through the eyes of a child:  from the way families greet one another to working in a garden with Nanny and listening to Poppy play his harmonica.  The placement of the window in the book assists the tracking of time through the story.  After being led through the activities of the family, our protagonist expresses feelings both happy and sad when it’s time to go home. 

The window represents the imaginative spirit of our young protagonist; through this window alone she can imagine any visitor, but not through any other window.  The imaginative and explorative spirit is what reigns in this book.  The illustrations by Chris Raschka help drive the emotion of the story. 

Though they are cartoonish, there is no room for doubt when a character is happy, sad or worried.  The bright colors emphasize the freshness of the world and the energized outlook of the characters.  The story also touches upon the conflicting emotions children often have when parting from someone they love with someone else they love. 

The story is told entirely through the eyes of the child.  From the text to the pictures, the reader only receives what the child interprets.  Raschka’s illustrations complement the story well by matching the child-like drawings to the child-like voice.  Additionally, the illustrations offer an approachability based on cultural markers. 

The family depicted is a modern, interracial family, and will add to the book’s desirability for this underrepresented population; however, because this aspect is not intrusive or meant to spark a conversation, the story remains simple and innocent throughout the book. 

The Hello, Goodbye Window was honored with a Caldecott Medal in 2005. 

“Say hello to Raschka at the top of his form.” (The Horn Book, July/August 2005)

“…an exciting and fanciful world…”  (Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books, July/August 2005)

“…grandparents especially will be charmed by this relaxed account of how a child's visit occasions every day magic.”  (Publishers Weekly, February 2005)

Henry's Freedom Box

Levine, Ellen.  2007.  Henry’s Freedom Box: A True Story From the Underground Railroad.  Ill. by Kadir Nelson.  New York: Scholastic Press.  ISBN 043977733X

Henry’s Freedom Box is set in the south during the mid-1800s prior to the Civil War.  The story follows the life of Henry “Box” Brown from his enslaved childhood to his freedom as an adult.  The story asks the reader to think about the families who were torn apart by slavery as Henry tries to first overcome the loss of his parents and his home and then as he is stripped of his own wife and children.  

The story makes no pardons for this country’s past by numbing the grief felt by our protagonist, but it also does not accuse or lecture the reader for what came before.  Kadir Nelson’s portrait-like art beautifully exposes each character’s emotion with its intricate details and use of shadowing. Levine gently exposes one of the most torrential periods in the United States’ history by unashamedly and non-accusingly discussing slavery and its effect on the human spirit.  

Because this book deals with slavery in America, a delicate issue in any medium, adult audiences may not be comfortable with the content; however, this story is presented as such an honest account of what went on, that no reader should be offended or embarrassed by the depictions of this true and bittersweet story.

Henry’s Freedom Box was awarded a Caldecott Honor in 2008.

“illustrations by Kadir Nelson that resonate with beauty and sorrow.” (The Horn Book, March/April 2007)

“…beautifully crafted picture book….”  School Library Journal, March 2007)

Side by Side: Five Favorite Picture-Book Teams Go To Work

Marcus, Lenoard S.  2001.  Side by Side: Five Favorite Picture-Book Teams Go to Work.  New York: Walker & Company.  ISBN 0802787789

This book provides the reader with insight to the imaginative and collaborative world of five picture-book teams.  Each team is highlighted in a separate chapter allowing for specific anecdotes to demonstrate how each team works best as a team.  The five teams include: Arthur Yorkinks and Richard Egielski; Alice and Martin Provensen; Jon Sciezka, Lane Smith and Molly Leach;  Julius Lester and Jerry Pinkney; Joanna Cole and Bruce Degen.

Each of these teams is unique in the way they approach their crafts.  Some are in constant and personal contact, others meet only minimally and speak through their representatives, but no matter how they work, each team has effectively created  picture-books that will remain on library and school shelves for the duration. 

The book has taken direct quotes, samples of works in progress, and images of the completed books to illustrate how the team reaches its finished product.  The images in the book range from photographs of the team members to conceptual sketches to items that inspired one or more team member in their endeavor.  These images complement the text and allow the reader to fully understand what the text had already explained. 

In addition to the chapters, the book also includes a glossary to help younger readers fully grasp the meaning behind some of the publishing jargon that is presented throughout the book.  Without this glossary, more advanced young readers would still find this book approachable, but this addition allows other, less-advanced readers to approach it confidence.

“…well-written and beautifully designed book.” (Booklist, November 2001)

“…may inspire readers to their own creative teamwork.” (Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books, March 2002)

“…fascinating look at the collaborative process involved in creating picture books…” School Library Journal, November 2001)

“…Side by Side is a book that lives up to its subject.” (The Horn Book, January/February 2002)