More Real Life Tales

MODULE 7: REALISTIC FICTION FOR YOUNG ADULTS
October 12-18



Flush
By: Carl Hiassen
Ages 12-14

Summary:

This book is about a nice kid named Noah, and his equally nice sister Abbey. They represent the average youth growing up in the United States and they face problems and challenges many other ordinary kids face every day. For example, one everyday problem is that there is some tension between their parents who constantly bicker and argue over Paine's, the father's, decisions. There is even talk of divorce, but they work things out and life improves. What makes this book especially interesting is that in spite of all of the normalcy in the characters there is this incredible mystery unfolding behind the scenes. Someone is polluting the waters around Thunder Bay, and when Paine Underwood is unable to convince the community that it is Dusty Muleman, the children take it upon themselves to solve the mystery and prove that their father was right afterall. They come up with an ingenious scheme to catch Dusty red handed or fuchsia handed as they exclaim in the book, and save the day.


My Impressions:

This book was incredibly spellbinding for me. I absolutely adored the characters. I admired Noah's love for and faith in his dad. I loved how Abbey was so intelligent and spoke her mind. I agreed with the mom that the dad had gone overboard and wasn't behaving in the proper way for a husband and father. But I couldn't help talking to the pages and telling her that she needed to trust him a little more. I hated the impulsiveness of the father and wished that he would spend just a little more time reflecting and a little less time acting-but I admired his passion and moral compass. Essential as the reader, I became completely involved and emotionally connected to the characters and themes in the story. I believe that it is an excellent book and I highly recommend it to readers of all ages.


Reviews:

"In his second children's book, Hiaasen offers a great action adventure without any of the didacticism that crept into Hoot. He sets this eco-mystery in Florida and peoples it with crooks, idealists, everyday heroes, and oddball characters. While the plot offers enough twists and turns to satisfy even the most serious adventure junkies, it's the multidimensional characters who give the novel vitality. Ages 12 to 14. Rating: 2: Superior, well above average."-Horn Book (The Horn Book Guide, Spring 2006)


Lesson Plans:

This book would pair well with science lessons relating to the environment and environmental issues. Students could be encouraged to look at the issue of illegal dumping, toxic waste, and pollution and its effect on people and wildlife. Students could examine newspaper articles from the past and current events. There is also an element of mystery and suspense in this book, and students could be encouraged to write their own mysteries using elements and themes found in Hiassen's book. Several reviewers compared this book to Hiassen's first children's book Hoot, and as a critical thinking exercise students could also compare and contrast elements and themes found in both books.



Hiassen, Carl. Flush. New York: Alfred A. Knopf, 2005.

Horn Book. "Children's Literature Reviews: Flush". Children's Literature Comprehensive Database. October 18, 2009 .

More Real Life Tales

MODULE 7: REALISTIC FICTION FOR YOUNG ADULTS
October 12-18



The Penderwicks
By: Jeanne Birdsall
Ages 9-12

Summary:

A classically written story about four girls who spend the summer having a grand time and exhilarating escapades is simply one way to describe this book. The author writes on the inside jacket "by the time I was ten or eleven, I'd run out of books to read. I promised myself that I'd become a writer someday, to give readers like me a few more books to discover and enjoy." Jeanne Birdsall lives up to her goals and creates a charmingly, lovely story about the Penderwick sisters. The oldest sister Rosalind experiences her first crush and the peaks and valleys that come with puppy love. The next sister Skye befriends Jeffrey, begins to build a relationship with her youngest sister, and stands up to Mrs Tifton and defends the honor of her family. The next sister Jane practices her soccer moves and finishes her next edition of Sabrina Starr who manages to rescue a real person this time. Finally Batty, the youngest sister, accidentally taunts a bull, befriends rabbits Yaz and Carla, and finds her little voice when she is being bullied.


My Impressions:

I was pleasantly surprised when I began to read this book. The cover is simple, reminiscent of old china, and gives off this impression of an old book. It is very deceiving, but perhaps is the image that the author intends to send. This book is written in a classic style, with a wholesome storyline, innocent characters, and a happy ending. Some reviewers liken The Penderwicks to Little Women by Louisa May Alcott. This is perhaps a good comparison because it is written in an almost old fashioned way. This style, grace, and charm is what makes this book a fantastic story. This book has become one of my all time favorites, and I am delighted that there is a sequel. One aspect of the book which I am especially impressed about is the way the author is able to make all of the girls come alive. As I began reading, I thought that one girl would emerge as the predominant charcter, perhaps Skye, because of her confidence and high self esteem. Yet I was surprised and then happy to find that all of the girls have their moments. Birdsall manages to give equal time to the development and description of each sister. She does this while still managing to keep the story interesting and the adventures interwoven into one excellently written and cohesive book.


Reviews:

"Four sisters, Rosalind, Skye, Jane, and Batty, spend a few weeks with their father and dog at a cottage on the grounds of a stately home in the Berkshires, where they complicate the lives of a handsome gardener, a lonely boy, and the boy’s officious mother. Rosalind, Skye, and Jane, at twelve, eleven, and ten, provide the majority of the action, aided by the boy, Jeffrey, who is eleven, while Batty manages to effortlessly focus the story at a four-year-old level for brief stints, making this a prime choice for multiple-grade reading aloud. The prose is simple yet sophisticated in style, Birdsall doesn’t waste words, yet through her writing the girls (even Batty) emerge as passionate and complex people whose motherless state encourages a particularly poignant bond with one another and with their gentle, abstracted father. Though the plot formula and even in-text references tie this story firmly to the Bastable and March family dramas, this is an independent, hearty tale with recognizably modern characters. Readers will remember the antics of these four highly personable sisters, whose adventures they will want to revisit. Review Code: R -- Recommended. Grades 4-7-Timnah Card,The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books, September 2005 (Vol. 59, No. 1)


Lesson Plans:

This book would be perfect for a read aloud, and would work perfectly in a setting where the educator could read a chapter or so everyday. This book could also inspire children to write a truly creative and imaginative story of their own. Students could be asked to create a wonderful summer adventure as apart of a creative writing assignment.



Birdsall, Jeanne. The Penderwicks. New York: Alfred A. Knopf, 2005.

Card, Timnah. "Children's Literature Reviews: The Penderwicks". Children's Literature Comprehensive Database. October 18, 2009 .

Real Life Tales For Children

Module 6: REALISTIC FICTION FOR YOUNGER READERS
October 5-11




Brian's Winter
By: Gary Paulsen
Ages 13-18

Summary:

This story takes readers to an alternate universe. A universe where the well loved and familiar character, Brian from Paulsen's original story The Hatchet, is not rescued right away, and has to stay the winter in the wilderness after his plane crashes in the middle of nowhere. At first Brian breaks the first rule he has learned out in the wilderness and that is to pay attention. Slowly summer drifts to fall and winter almost creeps up on Brian unexpectedly. He realizes in the nick of time and spends the rest of his fall preparing for winter. His gun breaks, and he is forced to find other means of survival. He creates his own bow and arrows, spears, and even uses rabbit skins and other animal hides to clothe himself. This book is all about Brian's trials and errors as he struggles to survive the treacherous winter, all alone, in the wilderness.


My Impressions:

I had always loved the book The Hatchet and I was completely unaware that Gary Paulsen had continued the stories, and has made almost a sort of franchise out of the character Brian and his adventures. I was delighted to discover this option and dove right into Brian's Winter. I was not at all disappointed and completely adored this book. It was exciting and funny; full of adventure and intrigue. I was left breathless at the scene where he hunted the moose. I am greatly looking forward to exploring all of the other Brian adventure books.


Reviews:

"Paulsen describes in precise detail how Brian crafts snowshoes, makes a strong bow and arrowheads of flint, sews fur clothing and hunts game. Fans of Paulsen's tales of wilderness survival will welcome the authentic information, and Brian remains a sympathetic and believable character as he learns from his mistakes and comes to live in harmony with his harsh but beautiful environment. --Exceptional book, recommended for junior and senior high school students. Ages 13 to 18."-Paula Rohrlick, KLIATT Review, March 1998 (Vol. 32, No. 2)


Lesson Plans:

This idea of survival is very intriguing and interesting to children and youth of all ages. This book could be paired up with lessons in survival skills, safety skills, and emergency preparedness skills. Educators could present students in small groups with various scenarios and students would have to write out and even dramatize how they would survive each scenario. This book could also be paired with non fiction books depicting real life survival stories, their heros and heroines. Again safety issues, basic survival skills, etc. could be emphasized to really show the relevance of this work while still encouraging reading.





Paulsen, Gary. Brian's Winter. New York: Delacorte Press, 1996.

Rohrlick, Paula. "Children's Literature Reviews: Brian's Winter". Children's Literature Comprehensive Database. October 18, 2009 .

A Picture Tells A Thousand Words

MODULE 5: PICTURE BOOKS
September 28-October 4

The Very Hungry Caterpillar
By: Eric Carle
Ages 1-9

Summary:

This classic children's picture book describes the life of a caterpillar, from its beginnings as an egg to its transformation into a beautiful butterfly. The caterpillar is so hungry and the reader takes delight in seeing him stuff his face throughout an entire week.


My Impressions:

This is a wonderful book that children really enjoy. The illustrations are marvelous, and the story is so simple and yet teaches and explains an important part of nature, the life cycle of a caterpillar.


Reviews:

"Carle’s beautiful collages explain the scientific process of metamorphosis with bold images appropriate for children of all ages. This is a classic book that should not be missed! Category: Classics; Concept; Read Aloud. Grade Level: Toddlers; Preschool; Primary (K-3rd grade). 1969, Philomel Books. Ages 1 to 9."-Allison, BookHive (www.bookhive.org)


Lesson Plans:

This story works perfectly for a preschool story time, and should be read and re-read to children of all ages. The story pairs nicely with science lessons, and could also be used for art classes as an example of collage works and paintings. Finally the story presents educators with a good opportunity to incorporate a numbers and counting lesson into their curriculum.



Carle, Eric. The Very Hungry Caterpillar. New York: Philomel Books, 1969.

www.bookhive.org. "Children's Literature Reviews: The Very Hungry Caterpillar". Children's Literature Comprehensive Database. September 25, 2009.

Award Winning Books

MODULE 4: NEWBERY AND PRINTZ AWARD WINNERS
September 21-27





A Step From Heaven
By: An Na
Ages 12 and Up

Summary:

A Step From Heaven is a book that takes and pulls the reader into the life, mind, and thoughts of a young girl. The reader lives side by side with Young Ju, as she leaves her native land of Korea as a young child and emigrates to the United States. The reader follows as Young Ju experiences life growing up in the United States. She must learn a new language and a new culture all the while struggling with personal tragedies in her own home. One trial she is struggling with at home is living in constant poverty. Both her mother and father work multiple jobs in order to support the family and provide them with a better life. Another trial she must deal with is an abusive father who is also an alcoholic. He physically and verbally abuses all the members of her family and on a regular basis and is constantly inebriated. In addition to her more serious tribulations, the reader sees Young Ju struggle with such issues as fitting in at school, sibling rivalry, and other everyday complications. If the reader is unable to connect with Young Ju in her serious problems, the reader can relate to her everyday challenges. This is what endears her to the reader, and keeps the audience engaged and hanging onto every word.


My Impressions:

I was completely enthralled with this book, and I couldn't put it down. An Na's writing style is so pleasing and attractive. I found the words and story to be mesmerizing. I believe that Na captures the essence of both children and young adults extremely well. This is a survival story with a powerful message that says that you can do anything you put your mind to. After everything that the Park family goes through, Young Ju manages to graduate from high school and receive a scholarship, and the family is able to finally purchase a house, a home, of their own. I think that it is interesting that once the "dead weight", or the father in this case, is gone, the family is finally able to be successful. This is an important message for women to remember that sometimes it is possible to be happier and more successful on one's own.


Reviews:

"This is written in the first person present tense with no burdensome narrative, which makes it appealing for younger readers with short attention spans. The manner and sensitivity of the storytelling itself will appeal to all readers. It would work well as supplemental reading for many of the social studies in areas of culture, immigration, abuse, and poverty. We will eagerly await more from this author. (Note: Winner, 2002 Michael L. Printz Award, and an ALA Best Book for YAs.) Exceptional book, recommended for junior and senior high school students, advanced students, and adults."-Ann Hart, KLIATT Review, March 2003 (Vol. 37, No. 2)


Lesson Plans:

This book provides an excellent opportunity to get students thinking about succeeding even in times of adversity. Students should create a list of the multiple problems this family experiences. On a separate list, students should write down how the situation ended. A new list of alternative solutions to these problems should then be created. For example with domestic violence and abuse, students should brainstorm ways Young Jun and her family could have received help. Examples would include calling 9-1-1, speaking with a counselor at school, moving in with their Aunt and Uncle Tim. This book also provides an opportunity to think about Asian cultures and discuss similarities and differences.


Hart, Ann. "Children's Literature Reviews: A Step From Heaven". Children's Literature Comprehensive Database. September 25, 2009 .

Na, An. A Step From Heaven. Asheville, NC: Front Street, 2001.

Award Winning Books

Module 4: NEWBERY AND PRINTZ AWARD WINNERS
September 21-27

Island of the Blue Dolphins
By: Scott O'Dell
Ages: 9-12

Summary:

A tale of survival and courage of a young woman, this book is an interesting read. Karana jumps off her chance at a new life and courageously swims back to the Island of the Blue Dolphins to protect and take care of her brother. She assumes and hopes that another ship will return soon to retrieve her, but slowly realizes as the months and then years pass by that she is on her own. Karana thinks only of her survival and prepares herself for each day's challenges, obstacles, and even the possible return of the Aleuts. She befriends the surrounding wildlife, and secures a steadfast bond with one of the wild dogs who roams the island. She names him Rontu, and the book goes on to tell of her day to day life and adventures.


My Impressions:

This is another book that I have always wanted to read, and I was delighted to finally have the chance. I found this to be a very good book, that is well written. It is a timeless story and the survival theme is very interesting and many readers will find it intriguing. It reminded me of an older version of Gary Paulsen's thrilling book, The Hatchet. I especially enjoyed Karana's bond and relationship with her dog Rontu. I have a wonderful dog of my own, and I think that I could survive on an island alone for many years with just him for company.


Reviews:

"Winner of the Newbery Medal in 1961, this story of Karana, the Indian girl who lived alone for eighteen years on an island off the coast of California, still fascinates young readers. Her survival story--fighting the wild dogs and loneliness, hunting for food, and hoping to be rescued--is spellbinding." -Marilyn Courtot (Children's Literature)


Lesson Plans:

This book provides educators and librarians with an excellent opportunity for a cross curricular lesson plans. The books discusses many varieties of wildlife including both plants and animals. This presents the perfect learning opportunity for science classes to delve into discussions on endangered species, poaching, and hunting animals for sport. Students can be given a particular member of wildlife mentioned in the book and present reports and projects on that animal. In addition, students could participate in a "Survivor" Reality Show of their own with situations based on the book. Students could act out various scenes and they could write their own survival based adventure stories and essays.

Courtot, Marilyn. "Children's Literature Reviews: The Island of the Blue Dolphins". Children's Literature Comprehensive Database. September 20, 2009 .

O'Dell, Scott. The Island of the Blue Dolphins. New York: Houghton Mifflin, 1988.

Books Promoting Diversity and Culture

Module 3: Caldecott, Coretta Scott King, and Pure Belpre Winners
September 14-20

The Girl Who Loved Wild Horses
By: Paul Goble
Ages 5-8

Summary:

This is a nicely written Native American fairytale, where a young girl is the caretaker of the horses in her village. One day a terrible storm arises, and the horses run off in fear. As the girl is their caretaker, she follows them in order to bring them back. Frightened they travel a great distance, very far from home. A handsome and grand wild stallion greets them and entices the girl and her horses to join him. The girl quickly begins to love the stallion and the gorgeous land he roams. She finds her place with the stallion and the other wild horses and decides that she has a new home of her own.


My Impressions:

Since I am a girl who loves wild horses, I selected this book for my blog. It is a very nice story that will appeal to a wide range of children, especially girls who consider themselves to be horse crazy. As a child, I often dreamed of riding off into the sunset with horses and frequently imagined myself as an animal of some sort. The best part of this book is the beautiful illustrations. They closely resemble pieces of artwork, and are unlike the illustrations found in a typical children's picture book.


Reviews:

In this Caldecott Medal book, Goble tells the story of how a girl so loved horses that, according to this Native American legend, she eventually became one. Beautiful, bright color illustrations on every spread expand upon the spare, but effective text. A true delight for those who love folklore and horses. The text closes with two Native American songs celebrating horses. Ages 5 to 8. -Marilyn Courtot (Children's Literature)


Lesson Plans:

This book is great not only because it is a Caldecott winner, but it is also a wonderful book that could be used to help promote diversity and multicultural understanding and tolerance within children. This book would be a great creative addition to discussions and activities dealing with Native American culture and history. The book ends with two traditional poems from Native American culture. These poems could be memorized and presented or performed by students. Students could also use these poems as examples and could create nature based poetry of their own.



Courtot, Marilyn. "Children's Literature Reviews: The Girl Who Loved Wild Horses". Children's Literature Comprehensive Database. September 11, 2009 .


Goble, Paul. The Girl Who Loved Wild Horses. New York: Simon & Schuster Books, 1978.