Things I Have to Tell You

Franco, Betsy.  2001.  Things I Have to Tell You.  Ill. Nina Nickles.  Cambridge, Mass: Candlewick Press.  ISBN 9780763609054

In this compilation of poems by teenage girls, the reader is given a glimpse into the inner-workings of female adolescence. Franco and Nickles offer insight into their methods for collecting the poetry and photographs that make up this rich collection. From cultural identity, drug addiction and sexuality, the varied topics and poets offer something for every reader.

The photographs by Nickels depict teenage girls from all walks of life, which effectively represents the many voices in the book. The black and white photographs throughout allows for character development by giving the reader a sense of reality. Many of the poems are written in free-verse or a loosely structured scheme, but this only bolsters the tone of unconventionality.

Both experienced and inexperienced readers of poetry will be able to appreciate the honesty and creativity with which these girls express themselves. I highly recommend this book to all.

“…the images of a multicultural array of "everygirls" are harmonious complements to this outstanding collection.” (School Library Journal/May 2001)

“…teens will listen and see themselves.” (Booklist/May 2001)

Possible Activities:
1. Many of the poems in this book could be used to spark deeper discussions with teenage girls; may best be used in book club setting.
2. These poems can also be used as examples of free-verse and to motivate teens to expolore their inner-poet.

A Wreath for Emmett Till

Nelson, Marilyn.  2005.  A Wreath for Emmett Till.  Ill. Philippe Lardy.  New York: Houghton Mifflin.  ISBN 9780618397525

This heroic crown of sonnets is incredibly deep in its exploration of the murder of Emmett Till. Each sonnet delves into the known past and the speculative future of the young victim. Nelson also effectively ties in modern fears and perceptions that draw parallels between the emotions felt after the lynching to those felt after the 9/11 attacks. Each powerful sonnet builds upon the last line of that previous, creating a very real connection between poems throughout. Philippe Landy has captured the tone of each poem with bold colors and severe shapes.

Along with the actual sonnets, the author’s and illustrator’s notes give background information about the lynching, additional resources for research and ideas on how they crafted their respective contributions to the book. Biographical information is also included, as well as notes on each sonnet, so readers will be able to fully understand the poetry’s connection to Emmett Till.

This chilling, honest and creative journey through a tragic event is well-worth the read. Nelson writes, “Emmett Till’s name still catches in my throat,” and this holds true for this work of art and remembrance.

“…Lardy's remarkable paintings capture the rising emotion and denouement of the historical event…” (Publishers Weekly/April 2005)

“Only Marilyn Nelson can take one of the most hideous events of the 20th century and make of it something glorious…” (Kirkus Reviews/March 2005)

“…these poems are a powerful achievement that teens and adults will want to discuss together.” (Booklist/February 2005)

Possible Activities:
1. This book should not be read without forethought; however, it could easily be included in a lesson on Civil Rights for teens.
2. This book also serves as a fantastic example of the different roles poetry can play in a literary diet.

Bronx Masquerade

Grimes, Nikki.  2002.  Bronx Masquerade.  New York: Dial Books.  ISBN 9780803725690

Eighteen teenage voices tell intertwining stories through prose and poetry in Nikki Grimes’ Bronx Masquerade. From a study of the Harlem Renaissance, Open Mike Fridays are formed in Mr. Ward’s English class. Beginning with the shock of the self-proclaimed “gansta,” Tyrone, reading a thoughtful and deep poem and progressively moving on to varying personal issues of the rest of the class, this thought-provoking journey through the teenage psyche is accessible to all races, genders and ages.

Grimes captures the voices of each of characters without compromising their individuality or threatening the authenticity of their voice. The raw, urban poetry presents a perfect forum for the exploration of the often enigmatic emotions and taboo experiences of teens today, while the straightforward, first-person narrative of each student allows the reader to gather enough background knowledge interpret the poetry that follows in the author’s predetermined way.

Tyrone, a recurring voice states that “[t]he world ain’t but one big surprise after another.” This statement sums up what the reader finds between the covers of Grimes’ book. Not only will Bronx Masquerade serve as a lively example of modern poetry, but it will also lend teenagers excitement and a connection to poetry and, maybe, to each other.

“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)

“…readers will enjoy the lively, smart voices that talk bravely about real issues and secret fears.” (Booklist/February 2002)

“…readers will enjoy the lively, smart voices that talk bravely about real issues and secret fears.” (School Library Journal/January 2002)

Possible Activities:
1. This book would do well for a readers' theater. Depending on the number of participants, each child could choose a voice to read their narratives and poems.
2. Bronx Masquerade would also easily fit into a poetry lesson to help motivate young poets and artists.
3. Would also tie in well to a Harlem Renaissance lesson; selections could be read along side well-known poems of that time to illustrate how things have changed and how they have not.

Bodies from the Ice: Melting Glaciers and the Recovery of the Past

Deem, James M.  2008.  Bodies from the Ice: Melting Glaciers and the Recovery of the Past.  Boston: Houghton Mifflin.  ISBN 9780618800452

This intriguing and thought-provoking collection of scientific facts and stories of climbers will engage minds of many ages. Deem begins with the discovery of a 5300 year old mummy, finding his way to sacrificed Incan children and many other finds. The detail of the exhumed bodies is paired with text that gives detailed scientific evidence of why and how these bodies were preserved and the scientists’ speculation and evidence of how they died.

In addition to the scientific, historical and exploratory information, much information is also given about global warming and why the glaciers are revealing their long hidden secrets now.

Every page splits space between text and graphics. Many pictures of artifacts and glaciers are present, as well as lithographs of glacial journeys and images of scientists at work in the cold conditions. Maps and discussions give the reader the perspective of where the individuals were discovered, and often the journey taken by the ill-fated explorers, both alive and dead.

Accompanying this text are extensive resources for further exploration. Suggested websites, a bibliography and an index are present; vocabulary words are italicized and defined throughout the text.

Deem has compiled a fantastic resource for understanding both the science behind mummification by freezing and the reasons many have resurfaced in recent past.

"…[Deem’s book] boasts his signature balance of delightful shivers and solid science." (Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books/December 2005)

"...an intriguing read." (Kirkus Reviews/October 2008)

Possible Activities:
1. This book could easily be worked into a science-based classroom, particularly biology.
2. Additionally, this could be used as an example and incorporaed into a discussion of some changes taking place due to global warming.

The Wednesday Wars [sound recording]

Schmidt, Gary.  2007.  The Wednesday Wars.  Read by Joel Johnstone. Portland, Maine: Scholastic Audiobooks.  ISBN 9780439925013

Most of the daily struggles of 7th grade, including how to wear tights without being the laughing stock of the school and how to avoid the many death threats from 8th graders, plague Holling Hoodhood. Every Wednesday of 7th grade, Holling stays behind with his teacher, Mrs. Baker, while his classmates split between Catholic and Jewish instruction. Holling is a Presbyterian on Long Island in 1967, and he is sure his teacher hates him.

If the reader stays through the slow beginning and the too oft mentioned light, brown, cream-puffs, this text will pleasantly surprise. Told from the perspective of the seventh grader, the audience gets a tangible sense of growing up in 1967 without the adult understanding of the current affairs of the world. Through Holling’s naïve narration, the audience receives glimpses of the war in Vietnam, Robert Kennedy’s campaign for president and the mid-sixties Beatles. As the story progresses, more of the nature of the world is revealed and understood by Holling, and so the audience is given a broader view of his world.

This is a coming of age story offers not only self-awareness, but also global perspective, understanding that love is more than a word and that life offers understanding and support in many unlikely and unexpected places.

Joel Johnstone’s reading of the text is very effective, as he provides not only the various voices and cadence of the characters’ speech patterns but also the emotion of each situation. This satisfying, if not sometimes predictable, novel has much to offer readers of young adult literature.

““Listen, laugh, cry, and marvel at the goodness of humankind.” (Audiofile/August/September 2007)

"Holling’s unwavering, distinctive voice offers a gentle, hopeful, moving story..." (Booklist/Jun 2007)

Possible Activities:
1. This text can easily be used to support a history class covering Vietnam, or American life during Vietnam.
2. The Wednesday Wars can easily be used as a motivator for an English class covering Shakespeare's plays.
3. A discussion could be initiated to discuss the normalcy versus strangeness of life at home during war. Many connections can be made to the present.

King of the Mild Frontier: an Ill-Advised Autobiography

Crutcher, Chris.  2003.  King of the Mild Frontier: an Ill-Advised Autobiography.  New York: Greenwillow Books.  ISBN 9780060502492

Just how does one become an author of some of the best and most frequently banned young adult books? In King of the Mild Frontier, personal stories, lessons learned, and humiliating occurrences of Chris Crutcher, author of Whale Talk and Running Loose, are compiled for a humorous, sometimes sad and disturbing, autobiography.

From growing up in a small town to working as a therapist in the city, readers will be treated to some of the stories behind the stories in his books. This book unfolds in a non-linear way, allowing the reader to get a strong sense of Crutcher’s past and how individual events impacted his future. Most readers will find some part of Crutcher’s past to relate to, though it would be difficult to find someone who relates to all of the experiences lain out here.

This biography is highly enjoyable, and those parts I labeled “disturbing” are incredibly telling of the time-period and the author; they are also often amusing. Readers will be interested to find that they take some of life’s lessons away from this reading without realizing it until the end. This would be a highly enjoyable choice for many young adults.

"...any reader from sixth grade to adulthood will enjoy this not-so-ill-advised rendition of Crutcher's childhood." (KLIATT/2005)

Possible Ties:
1. This would be a great choice for an individual reader, and possibly a Teen book club.
2. For those attempting to come to terms with their own awkwardness, this is a good example of "making it through."

Among the Hidden

Haddix, Margaret Peterson.  1998.  Among the Hidden.  New York: Aladdin Paperbacks.  ISBN 0689824750

Don’t be seen. Don’t be heard. You don’t exist. Imagine a world in which these are your commands. For Luke, this is reality. The population is being controlled by the government in an attempt to ration the world’s remaining resources. Not until he looks out at the newly developed homes from his concealed attic window does Luke begin to believe he’s not alone in the world. He meets Jen, another illegal child, who introduces him to a wealth of knowledge and danger as she begins to unveil what has been hidden from him about his own existence.

Haddix creates a believable world in which government control has been mandated, invading the personal rights of all citizens. The terrifying similarities between this fictitious government and those running our countries today are unsettling. The individual characterization of each voice is very well-written, forcing the reader to stop to examine the motives of each person.

The reader will also be intrigued by the developing plot, its twists and turns and the inevitable personal journey taken by Luke. The feeling that this story is not a very distant future adds to the suspense and relevancy of Among the Hidden. For young adults interested in creating a sustainable planet and promoting equity among all individuals, this book will become a fast favorite.

"The seizing of farmlands, untenable food regulations, and other scenarios that have come to fruition in these pages will give readers a new appreciation for their own world after a visit to Luke's."(Kirkus/1998)

"...the fully realized setting, honest characters, and fast paced plot combine for a suspenseful tale of two youngsters fighting for their very existence.” (The ALAN Review/Winter 1999)

Possible Activities:
1. This would be a fantastic choice for a school book club. Earth science, political science, ethics, and sociology are all possible tie-ins.
2. For great discussion questions, see the following guide created for the Multnomah County Library: http://www.multcolib.org/talk/guides-amongthehidden.html

The Subtle Knife

Pullman, Philip.  1997.  The Subtle Knife.  New York: Random House.  ISBN 0440238145

Lyra has followed her father, Lore Asriel, over the mysterious bridge. What she finds is a new world...several, in fact. As she and other adventurers from The Golden Compass embark upon their separate, yet related, journeys, the intentions of Lord Asriel become more clear. Will Parry, a young and fierce boy, teams up with Lyra and may just get more than he bargains for, and, throughout the novel, the presence of the subtle knife is tantalizing in its potential to shape or sever the schemes of longer-known characters.

Pullman effectively continues His Dark Materials without compromising the intrigue of what is yet to come. Readers of this trilogy will not be let down by this second installment, and will undoubtedly reach for the last volume as soon as The Subtle Knife is completed.

The fantastical elements paired with the plight of the under-represented that made The Golden Compass such a success are present in The Subtle Knife, and, as with any middle book in a trilogy, answers to old questions spawn new intrigue. Captivating and elusive, His Dark Materials is well-written and the characters are given new depth. Pullman leads the reader on a journey that is at once fascinating and terrifying. The slow realization that the balance is shifting yet again, and that the story will continue in ways unimagined are key to the continued success of these books.

Young teens through adults will enjoy the fantasy that so well represents the naiveté, perseverance, character and cynicism that are common elements of human nature.

"Pullman has so intricately woven the textures of the two books that the outlines of the first are clearly recapitulated in the second, making it possible to read this one alone..."(Kirkus/1997)

"Once again Pullman succeeds in pushing readers headlong into other worlds...” (Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books/November 1997)

Possible Activities:
1. Great discussion starter for religous differences, beliefs and symbolism.
2. Can be discussed in terms of good vs. evil and reality of the blurred lines between the two.

Mockingjay

Collins, Suzanne.  2010.  Mockingjay.  New York: Scholastic Press.  ISBN 978-0439023511

In this third and final installment of The Hunger Games trilogy, Collins continues the journey of Katniss Everdeen. War, love, hate and peace are all tangled to create yet another intense and thought-provoking novel. Katniss has been thrust into the heart of the rebellion, not only as a participant, but as the symbol of hope for all of Panem. Finding herself as pawn in someone else’s games once again, she must decide what her role will be. She is forced to discover that sides are not always clearly defined and that some evils are less obvious and, so, more treacherous.

As the games continue, more citizens will be affected, more lines must be crossed and more loved ones will be lost. Collins wields the desperation so prevalent in the two preceding novels while effectively dangling the tightly-held belief that there may, yet, be hope for Panem…and, just maybe, for Katniss.

For readers of The Hunger Games and Catching Fire, the characters easily live and breathe; however, new readers may be left wanting in Mockingjay because so little time is spent on character development. This is a small concern, though, as most readers will be continuing to, rather than starting with this book. While most of the character development takes place in the previous installments, as ever, the nature of the Games is to change everything the reader expects. Even the most steadfast allies are potential enemies here.

Collins consistently paints a vivid scene for readers, and this book is no exception. The first scenes of the first chapter are of District 12, now destroyed, so the reader immediately gets a sense of what has changed and is what is lost. Through Katniss’s thoughts readers are given enough reminders of the past books and prior events to recapitulate without being superfluous for readers moving directly to the sequel without a long break between books.

Being the third part in such an intense trilogy, Mockingjay had much to live up to. Overall, this was an excellent book and it will be recommended, along with its predecessors, to teens and adults alike.

"The bittersweet ending is at once heartbreaking and appropriate, as it stays true to both the determination of Katniss and the brutality of the Games."(Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books/November 2010)

"The highly anticipated conclusion to the Hunger Games trilogy does not disappoint.” (Booklist/November 2010)

Possible Activities:
1. Can be used to begin a discussion about war and its effects, as well as the effects of guilt.
2. Can be used to begin a discussion about loss, particularly that caused by war.

Double Helix

Werlin, Nancy.  2004.  Double Helix.  New York: Sleuth.  ISBN 5148800599

In Nancy Werlin’s Double Helix, Eli Samuels’ mother has Huntington’s Disease, which is fatal and genetically programmed to be passed on to offspring fifty percent of the time. When Eli finds out that his father was also at risk for the disease, he distances himself with anger and defiance in an attempt to keep his world from shattering. The extremely intelligent guy who has, admittedly, never felt inferior to anyone, stumbles across a portion of his parents past he can’t quite explain, and he starts to wonder about his parents, how the enigmatic Dr. Wyatt is connected and what the circumstances leading to his own existence were.

This genetic mystery leads the reader on an emotional and physical chase through the lab. Eli is fraught with unknown and doesn’t seem to be able to express himself without elevating his own annoyance. Though the timeliness of a mystery about genetic testing is excellent, the lacking character development keeps the reader from becoming invested in the outcome.

Not until the last quarter of the book is a real reason to uncover the truth apparent, and many readers will likely have abandoned the sulky and irritable Eli before this point. While this book may appeal to some readers, particularly those interested in bioethics, the story and voice missed its mark for me.

"A solidly crafted, thoughtful novel featuring a clever, obsessed kid who finds truths, small and large, about life, family, and, of course, himself."(Booklist/February 2004)

"This story about bioethics will appeal to the intellectually curious reader.” (KLIATT/March 2004)

Possible Activities:
1. Initiate conversation about genetic-engineering and bioethics.
2. Can be easily tied to science and political curriculum.
3. May also allow conversations about grief and the impact of terminal illness on families.

Bloody Jack [Sound Recording]

Meyer, L.A.  2007.  Bloody Jack: Being an Account of the Curious Adventures of Mary "Jacky" Faber, Ship's Boy.  Read by Katherine Kellgren. New Jersey: Listen and Live Audio, Inc..  ISBN 9781593160944

In a plague-ravaged London, Mary Faber finds herself without home or family. Adopted by a gang of street urchins, she finds camaraderie, though no comfort, until a villain destroys that comfort, as well. Striking out on her own, she disguises herself as a boy and is lucky to find a sea-faring home on the HMS Dolphin. Jack Faber, as she has renamed herself, finds adventure, terror and pleasure in her new role.

L.A. Meyer allows the potentially weak Mary to come of age under questionable influences, but is able to believably maintain the moral beliefs, naiveté and exuberance of a young girl. The narration and dialogue are believable and authentic for the time-period, which only adds to the sense of thrilling escape.

In this unabridged recording of Bloody Jack, Katherine Kellgren introduces a voice that matches the mood, context, pace and genre without fault. Read with all the inflections of a vivid imagination, the reader is transported onto the streets of London, Her Majesty’s Ship Dolphin and a sea-faring adventure. Readers of all ages and genders will easily identify with and applaud Mary as she comes to terms with her independence, station and love of life.

This is truly an engaging, well-written work of historical fiction, and the subsequent adventures are on my must read list.

“...Bloody Jack is the perfect audiobook to make those long family car trips fly by.” (Publishers Weekly/May 2007)

"...this rousing historical tale is an appealing choice for fans of adventures, sea stories, and gutsy girls." (Booklist/2007)

Possible Activities:
1. Use book as a dialogue starter for English history and the treatment of women in past societies.
2. Open discussion to include agreements and disagreements for decisions made by Jacky throughout the story.

I'd Tell You I Love you, But Then I'd Have to Kill You

Carter, Ally.  2006.  I'd Tell You I Love You, But Then I'd Have to Kill You.  New York: Hyperion.  ISBN 9781423100034

At Gallagher Academy, the students are expected to study diligently, act with grace and decorum and be capable of hand-to-hand combat in an evening dress and four inch heels. Gallagher Academy isn’t an ordinary private school; it’s a training ground for the world’s elite, teenaged, spies. Placed in a small town in Virginia, contact with the school, and its reportedly affluent students, is avoided along with a serious breach in National Security…until Josh meets Cammie.

When this seemingly ordinary boy stumbles into the middle of a covert operations lesson, the school’s true identity is compromised. To ensure the safety of themselves and everyone they know, the girls must discover Josh’s motives…and what type of girls he likes. These super-sleuthy teenagers can sneak into the Kremlin, but can they decipher what goes on in boys’ heads?

This fast-paced and entertaining first-installment of Ally Carter’s Gallagher Girls series is well-written, offering a cast of funny, intelligent, and even vulnerable, individuals. More than a love story, the reader is taken into the complex relationships teenagers can share with their friends, parents and teachers. Carter effectively captures both the highly-trained voice of the spy and the naïve voice of the teenager in her writing.

Following Cammie as she journeys through adolescence, tear gas and grief, the reader is transported into a high school adventure with more repercussions than a failing grade. This book will be easy to recommend for many ages.

"This is escapist fiction for those who like unusual school stories."(KLIATT/May 2006)

"The promise of a second Gallagher Girl book is the promise of good times to come."(VOYA/October 2006)

Possible Activities:
1. Teen/Tween Book Club in which career options are discussed.
2. Open discussion about choosing others over self and/or how to protect loved ones.

Before I Die

Downham, Jenny.  2007.  Before I Die.  Westminster: A David Fickler Book.  ISBN 9780385751551

Before I Die is a powerful and heart-wrenching novel in which Tessa has been diagnosed with a terminal illness. Struggling with the torrent that is adolescence while coping with the inevitability of death, Tessa finds strength in attempting to cross as many things off of her life’s list as possible. Beside her on her journey is her strong-willed and confident friend, Zoey, who is offset by the careful and fearful presence of her father.

Tessa’s struggle is eased slightly by the introduction of Adam, her soon-to-be boyfriend and the only love of her life. Their sweet and doomed relationship makes reading this novel both happy and heartbreaking. From Tessa’s first-person limited narration, the reader finds the clarity of the voice drifting as Tessa begins to wane. This style only intensifies the feeling of loss.

Downham has written an intensely powerful story that will not be easily forgotten. The story of Tessa and her struggles with every day life will be relatable to teens and older audiences. The themes of death, yearning and love are familiar but presented in an entirely new and difficult light. While the completion of the list propels the story forward, it is not intrusive to the story.

The characterization is very well-done, and the various characters within the story deal with Tessa’s situation, and their own, both believably and differently. This novel will be highly, though not lightly, recommended.

"…and the passionate present-tense narrative will draw readers deeply into story and make them wonder, “What if it was me?"(Booklist/November 2007)

"Lucid language makes a painful journey bearable, beautiful and transcendent."(Kirkus Reviews/September 2007)

Possible Activities:
1. Open discussions about death and loss in a group or individually.
2. Possibly open a wiki or blog for teen contributions, as verbal discussions may be more difficult for teens.

The Earth, My Butt and Other Big Round Things

Mackler, Carolyn.  2003.  The Earth, My Butt and Other Big Round Things.  New York: Candlewick Press.  ISBN 9780763620912

Virginia Shreves is the daughter of a successful adolescent psychologist who talks about her patients more than to her own teenaged daughter. While Virginia is used to being alone most of the time in her parents’ New York penthouse, she has times when she questions the motives behind her parents’ continual absence. These feelings of inadequacy stem from Virginia’s weight problems, as she sees her entire family as perfectly thin. Add to the familial trouble the fact that her best friend, Shannon, has moved away for the year and her sometimes make-out partner, probably doesn’t want to be seen in with her in public, and real mental anguish begins.

In this coming-of-age story, Virginia is unpopular, and only mentioned as a fleeting connection to her perfect, older brother, who is now in college, and is traumatized first by a conversation overheard and then by a seemingly impossible occurrence that truly rattles her entire world. Feelings of absolute inadequacy and humiliation nest to make bad situations worse and nearly impossible for Virginia to deal with.

Through her struggles, Virginia begins to hurt herself, attempts to lose weight on a crash diet, and cuts herself off from most of those who care for her. This is an extremely powerful book that can introduce teens to the idea that no one is perfect, no matter how they seem. Mackler has provided a truthful, sometimes frightening, and, yet, hopeful novel, in which the characters are able to shed their insecurities in a healthy way. A little rebellion can go a long way.

Mackler’s easy use of common language tied in with her knowledge of emerging technologies makes this story relevant for the teens of today.

The Earth, My Butt and Other Big Round Things is a Printz Honor Book.

"…Virginia's story will interest readers who are looking for one more book with teen angst, a bit of romance, and a kid who is a bit like them or their friends."(School Library Journal/September 2003)

"The heroine's transformation into someone who finds her own style and speaks her own mind is believable—and worthy of applause.” (Publishers Weekly/July 2003)

"...eminently accessible journey from self-hatred to confidence." (Kirkus Reviews/June 2003)

Possible Activities:
1. Initiate gender specific book clubs to dicuss body image and dealing with stress.
2. Get teens to brainstorm how they would have reacted to some of the things Virginia faced in the novel.

Along for the Ride

Dessen, Sarah.  2009.  Along for the Ride.  New York: Viking.  ISBN 9780670011940

The brilliant daughter of a writer and a professor of English, Auden West, has had a superior education; however, she has also become an emotionally and socially stunted insomniac as a result of her parents’ divorce. Without realizing what she’s been missing, Auden has always strived to please her selfish father and her demanding and superior mother. In the summer after graduation, realizing that she hasn’t experienced much in life other than academics, Auden decides she wants a change of scenery and goes to visit her father, step-mother and new baby step-sister in Colby, a small beach town.

The relaxing beach holiday Auden has in mind goes awry almost instantly, as the new baby keeps quiet from the house at all hours. Auden quickly finds herself the subject of local gossip after ‘hooking-up” with the wrong guy, but manages to find friends, have fun and obtain a sense of peace, and love, like she’s never had before.

Along for the Ride offers a fantastic portrayal of a sheltered girl finally discovering what it’s like to live her own life and have a childhood. The progression of Auden is tied not to mature actions, but to those more immature in this mostly innocent story. The first-person narrative offers insight into Auden’s thoughts, but her actions and discomfort say much more than even she knows about the way she feels. The balance of male and female characters and emotions will appeal to readers of any gender, and I recommend it.

"Rounding out her latest offering with richly depicted female friendships, Dessen offers up a summertime tale of self-discovery."(The Horn Book/May/June 2009)

Readers will be most absorbed by Auden and Eli's romantic friendship, the type soul mates are born of, played out in the bike shop, Colby's all-night Laundromat, and coffee shops. This summer vacation-themed story will be savored.” (School Library Journal/June 2009)

Possible Activities:
1. Include in a summer book club.
2. Ask if teens relate to any particular relationship in the book.
3. Ask and discuss relation of any teens to the events that affect the characters in the book: death, divorce, drinking, prom.

Charles and Emma: the Darwins' Leap of Faith

Heiligman, Deborah.  2009.  Charles and Emma: the Darwins' Leap of Faith.  New York: Henry Holt and Company.  ISBN 9780805087215

What you think you know about Charles Darwin will be tested in this award-winning book. Charles Darwin and Emma Wedgwood were compatible, in love and unable to resolve one major conflict: religion. Though this would be a source of contention between them, Charles and Emma were married and lived happily supporting one another through many of life’s trials and tribulations. The reader is taken through the progression of their lives as Charles forms and perfects his theories on evolution and natural selection.

Juxtaposing Charles’ scientific theories are Emma’s religious beliefs; this creates a balance in the book that presents the reader with the understanding that not all must be in congruence to have harmony and balance. The struggle of Charles Darwin to publish his, at the time, shocking theory about the origin of species is poignantly captured and all the more considerable because of his wife’s personal beliefs. Along with science and religion, the Darwins experience familial illness, joys, amusement and melancholy, which allows for the portrayal of Charles as a human, rather than as an historical figure.

What is apparent throughout the book is the love and respect each of these figures had for the other. Heiligman draws quotes and facts from Darwin’s publications, correspondence, public records and other resources to paint a vivid and accurate picture not only of the Darwins’ life together, but also of the nineteenth century. Photographic inserts are included, and the chapter headings are adorned illustrations representing the opposing viewpoints of Charles and Emma.

Throughout, Heiligman creates an accurate and captivating image of a family’s life in the Victorian era. That the family is that of Charles Darwin is an indulgence that allows for an introduction to the theories of evolution as labored-over by its father. The source notes, selected bibliography and family tree are extensive. It is apparent that much time and care were invested in the writing of this enchanting and well-crafted book, which will have the reader considering the balance between religion and science and how individuals choose to live with one, the other or both. Though the book is slow-paced and goes into minute details about certain topics, these things enhance rather than detract from the quality of work because of the subject matter.

Charles and Emma is the winner of YALSA’s Excellence in Young Adult NonFiction, a Printz Honor Book and a National Book Award Finalist.

"Austen fans will find a romance to like here, too.” (Booklist/January 2009)

"[Heiligman's] book allows readers not only to understand Darwin's ideas, but to appreciate how Emma's responses tempered them.” (Publishers Weekly/December 2008)

"...readers...will discover two brilliant thinkers whose marital dialectic will provide rich fodder for discussions of science and faith." (Kirkus Reviews/December 2008)

Possible Activities:
1. Discuss tolerance for all beliefs and have a readers' theater with various topics. Each student could represent a different idea, and the others would be able to respond by reading responses based on their own characters' viewpoints. This will help teach children to think of things from varying perspectives.
2. Have students create their own family tree stretching a few generations back, at least, so they will get a good sense of how families interact and grow.

What I Saw and How I Lied

Blundell, Judy.  2008.  What I Saw and How I Lied.  New York: Scholastic Press.  ISBN 043903467

For Evie Spooner, life is simple in New York now that her step-father has returned from the war. Candy cigarettes, ice-cream and crushes on boys rule her world until the family takes a trip to Florida. In off-season Palm Beach, Evie and her parents enjoy a relaxing, though hot, vacation filled with new friends and acquaintances, forbidden romance and…something else. A mysterious past and incongruent facts lead the reader into a world filled with mystery, sorrow and sometimes pity.

The characters are well-developed, and their motivations are known and believable. What I Saw and How I Lied effectively portrays a girl torn between her family, her first love and a choice that may destroy more than one of those people. While coming to terms with her feelings and struggling toward what seems the impossible, Evie also finds her voice and learns to recognize injustices hitherto unknown to her. Though the novel is slow to start, the pace does increase at the halfway-point, and readers will be absorbed by the plot twists and suspense that follow.

Set in 1947, Judy Blundell delivers a coming-of-age story filled with intrigue, suspicion and greed. World War II is in the hearts and minds of each of the characters, and many ideals and prejudices of the time are written with truthful care. Florida’s 1947 hurricane also makes an appearance, and the fear and uncertainty of a natural disaster is made real by the author. The characters’ speech patterns are not overtly indicative of the nineteen-forties, but in-text descriptions of and references to styles and actors give the feeling of that time. Blundell notes some of resources in her “Acknowledgements,” but other research notes and further reading suggestions are omitted. Overall, this is an ejoyable story, but it lacks the intensity in the opening pages to keep every reader invested.

"Blundell navigates this multidimensional plotline with unique, well-developed characters and insightful dialogue.” (School Library Journal /December 2008)

“...Blundell has crafted a suspenseful, historical mystery that not only subtly explores issues of post–WWII racism, sexism, and socioeconomic class, but also realistically captures the headiness of first love and the crushing realization that adults are not all-powerful.” (Booklist/November 2008)

Possible Discussion Questions:
1) What impacts you the most about this story? Love, prejudice, greed, sex?
2) Would you respond differently to Evie’s choices in the end of the book? Why or why not?
3) What prejudices have you seen or experienced?
4) What do you think about Evie’s treatment of Wally? Vice versa?
5) Have you ever been involved in a natural disaster? If yes, what was your experience? If no, can you respond to the hurricane as an observer?

The Chocolate War

Cormier, Robert.  1974.  The Chocolate War.  New York: Bantam Doubleday.  ISBN 9780440944597

Jerry Renault, a freshman at Trinity, has lost his mother and rarely sees his father. In his attempt to find comfort at school, he is exposed to an upper-classman gang known as “The Vigils,” who are responsible for intimidation and controlled mayhem. When Archie Costello, the intellectual leader of The Vigils, submits Jerry’s name for an “assignment” that will disrupt a long-time tradition at Trinity, the balance of power and influence in the school begins to shift. The gang, encouraged by a greedy and sinister interim headmaster, attempts to force Jerry into conformity with taunts, threats and violence.

Set in a New England Boys’ Catholic school, the reader is taken into a world of emerging men. Fighting to be accepted in the present and to overcome the past, the young protagonist is pitted against self, man and society. The in-text prompt “Do I dare disturb the universe?” is the thematic high of this novel. Cormier’s acclaimed novel explores male adolescence alongside struggles with grief and conviction. Many of the characters, Archie and Brother Leon, for instance, are less dynamic than one may expect to find, but they are effective in their antagonistic roles. Still, other characters are well-rounded and believable, and it is around these characters, capable of change, internal or external, that the themes of the story truly develop.

The characters are isolated in action and in thought. Cormier’s writing style allows for the individual exploration of characters’ thoughts without delving too deeply into their motivation, but this only intensifies the feelings of seclusion and wonder. The introduction of many minor characters throughout propels the plot but denies the intimate knowledge of any single person.

Listed as one of the most challenged books of the past decade, and the decade before that, The Chocolate War, explores sexual, religious and anti-government ideologies; this novel is perfectly situated to help young adults begin to explore their stance on many issues.

“…the action is well crafted, well timed, suspenseful…” (The New York Times Book Review)

“…This novel [is] unique in its uncompromising portrait of human cruelty and conformity.” (School Library Journal -- Starred Review)

“Robert Cormier has written a brilliant novel.” (Children's Book Review Service)

Possible Discussion Questions:
1) Do you relate to any particular character?
2) Do you think it's possible that the whole school would rally against Jerry?
3) Do you think this book is really about chocolates? If not, then what?
4) Have you ever witnessed or experienced social conformity on this or any level?  When/where?
5) Would you have given in and sold the chocolates?
6) What would you say to Brother Leon or Archie if given the chance?

Break Between Reviews

Hi, all! I obviously took a hiatus from reviewing between Fall semesters, but I'll be starting up again this semester. This post will serve as a break for those looking for my reviws for LS5623: Advanced Literature for Young Adults. Happy reading!

Rachel