Gardner, Robert. Ace your Math and measuring: Science Project.
c 2010 128p 32.00 9780766032248 jr/sr
Ace Your Physics Science Project
An easy way of learning all you need to know about math and measurements. A book full of science fair project, experiments and historical facts that will help you understand how math and measurements came to be a big part of how we live. This math book will prove to be very interesting to kids and adults. It take math and simplifies it by giving the reader background historical facts that will help understand how math helps us understand our world.
In the unit 1.1 the author gives us historical background that explains why we have many of the different math terms. The human body was the first instrument use for measurements for example: The foot was a unit equal to the length of a person foot. Take measuring a room, if you place your feet one in front of the other and walk the length of the room in this manner you will get approximate measure for that room. How many of you have seen your mothers or grandmother measure out a yard of fabric? They would take the fabric and begin the measurement at the point of their nose to the length of their hand and that would measure approximately a yard of fabric = to 36 inches.
There are experiments and examples that will provide a learning experience while you are having fun learning new and old concepts. You will learn about the US system and and the metric system. There are a total of 14 science fair experiments. Includes: Index, Introduction, safety first, the scientific method, science fairs, web sites, bibliography, and appendix.
Magna Diaz
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Soto, Gary. Partly Cloudy: Poems of Love and Longing.
Soto, Gary. Partly Cloudy: Poems of Love and Longing.
Houghton Mifflin/Clarion/Graphia/Kingfisher 2009 100p 16.00 9780152063016 jr/sr
A hundred pages of love and longing. Partly Cloudy is a book for all teens; boys and girls. The girls have the part of “A girl’s tears, her song” and the boys have the part of “ A boy’s body, his words”. Poems of the heart for boys and girls. A hundred pages of love and longing. Partly Cloudy is a book for all teens; boys and girls. The girls have the part of : A girl’s tears, her song and the boys have the part of: A boy’s body, his words.
The poems are refreshing and simple conveying the messages in a heartfelt manner. The book Partly Cloudy is a book that is best describe in this manner
“Love is like weather:
sometimes stormy,
sometimes sunny,
sometimes partly cloudy.
And so the poems are such that they will capture the teens heart and say in words what they feel. Gary Soto has been able to write simple versus that say so much and talk about everything from a bruised heart, a yearning heart, and a first love. Poems of the heart for boys and girls. I suspect the book will not be on shelf very often. Magna Diaz
Houghton Mifflin/Clarion/Graphia/Kingfisher 2009 100p 16.00 9780152063016 jr/sr
A hundred pages of love and longing. Partly Cloudy is a book for all teens; boys and girls. The girls have the part of “A girl’s tears, her song” and the boys have the part of “ A boy’s body, his words”. Poems of the heart for boys and girls. A hundred pages of love and longing. Partly Cloudy is a book for all teens; boys and girls. The girls have the part of : A girl’s tears, her song and the boys have the part of: A boy’s body, his words.
The poems are refreshing and simple conveying the messages in a heartfelt manner. The book Partly Cloudy is a book that is best describe in this manner
“Love is like weather:
sometimes stormy,
sometimes sunny,
sometimes partly cloudy.
And so the poems are such that they will capture the teens heart and say in words what they feel. Gary Soto has been able to write simple versus that say so much and talk about everything from a bruised heart, a yearning heart, and a first love. Poems of the heart for boys and girls. I suspect the book will not be on shelf very often. Magna Diaz
Hale, Bruce. From Russia with Lunch.
Hale, Bruce. From Russia with Lunch.
Harcourt Brace 2009 112p 15.00 978-0-15-20548-8 elem
Chet Gecko Mystery
“When Chet's favorite teacher is fired and replaced by Russian scientist Tanya Lightov's mechanical invention, the school is suddenly possessed by unnatural forces and events, and Natalie Attired abandons Chet in his hour of need.” Fans of Chet Gecko will not be disappointed in this installment of the latest mystery to be solved. In this title, Chet Gecko, a lizard detective, and his mockingbird partner Natalie Attired, are presented with a mystery involving members of their elementary school, Emerson Hicky. Staff members are being replaced by devices such as the Bibliomalgamator, the Munchmeister 2000, and Yard Czar to help automate and streamline the library, cafeteria, and to simplify yard work. The devices were created by a mysterious Russian scientist and inventor, Dr. Tanya Lightov, but when tested, they did not function as they were intended. Everyday life at Emerson Hicky seems out of the ordinary as strange things and events happen. Kindergartners overrule the playground and beat up sixth graders, good students who normally are teachers pets are talking back and getting suspended from school, and his partner in crime and best friend, Natalie has abandoned Chet when he most needed her. Chet realizes that something is seriously wrong and he is determined to find out what is happening at his school.
Written in first-person narration, students will enjoy the puns, wisecracks, metaphors, and overall funny descriptions, while enjoying the scattered black-and-white pencil drawings. Students who enjoy mystery stories will appreciate this title. The author includes a quick summary of the first thirteen mysteries of Chet Gecko. Charlene Forba-Mayer
Harcourt Brace 2009 112p 15.00 978-0-15-20548-8 elem
Chet Gecko Mystery
“When Chet's favorite teacher is fired and replaced by Russian scientist Tanya Lightov's mechanical invention, the school is suddenly possessed by unnatural forces and events, and Natalie Attired abandons Chet in his hour of need.” Fans of Chet Gecko will not be disappointed in this installment of the latest mystery to be solved. In this title, Chet Gecko, a lizard detective, and his mockingbird partner Natalie Attired, are presented with a mystery involving members of their elementary school, Emerson Hicky. Staff members are being replaced by devices such as the Bibliomalgamator, the Munchmeister 2000, and Yard Czar to help automate and streamline the library, cafeteria, and to simplify yard work. The devices were created by a mysterious Russian scientist and inventor, Dr. Tanya Lightov, but when tested, they did not function as they were intended. Everyday life at Emerson Hicky seems out of the ordinary as strange things and events happen. Kindergartners overrule the playground and beat up sixth graders, good students who normally are teachers pets are talking back and getting suspended from school, and his partner in crime and best friend, Natalie has abandoned Chet when he most needed her. Chet realizes that something is seriously wrong and he is determined to find out what is happening at his school.
Written in first-person narration, students will enjoy the puns, wisecracks, metaphors, and overall funny descriptions, while enjoying the scattered black-and-white pencil drawings. Students who enjoy mystery stories will appreciate this title. The author includes a quick summary of the first thirteen mysteries of Chet Gecko. Charlene Forba-Mayer
Styr, Charlie. Click, The Ultimate PHotography Guide.
Styr, Charlie. Click, The Ultimate PHotography Guide.
Watson-Guptill (see Random) 2009 144p 18.95 978-0-8230-9237-6
Fabulous collection of color photographs illustrate a modern photography how-to book. Aspiring photographers get the basics (selecting a camera) and technical details (shutter speed, aperture, exposure) followed by 26 clearly written essays on specific topics. These include Under the Sun (portraits in daylight), A Photographer’s Best Friend (pet shots), City Scenes, Night Landscapes, Travel, altering images by cropping, and retouching, and advice on photo sharing and starting a business. The best part of the book is that it’s illustrated throughout with wonderful photos from the worldwide Flickr Teenage Photographer’s Group (begun by coauthor Styr). Each photo includes the photographer’s name, age, country, screen name, and technical details.
A number of tips by professionals are also included. Most advice can be useful for beginners with a disposable camera as well as traditional or digital equipment. Perfect for high school students to use as a photography text or for individual browsing. Susan Gooden
Watson-Guptill (see Random) 2009 144p 18.95 978-0-8230-9237-6
Fabulous collection of color photographs illustrate a modern photography how-to book. Aspiring photographers get the basics (selecting a camera) and technical details (shutter speed, aperture, exposure) followed by 26 clearly written essays on specific topics. These include Under the Sun (portraits in daylight), A Photographer’s Best Friend (pet shots), City Scenes, Night Landscapes, Travel, altering images by cropping, and retouching, and advice on photo sharing and starting a business. The best part of the book is that it’s illustrated throughout with wonderful photos from the worldwide Flickr Teenage Photographer’s Group (begun by coauthor Styr). Each photo includes the photographer’s name, age, country, screen name, and technical details.
A number of tips by professionals are also included. Most advice can be useful for beginners with a disposable camera as well as traditional or digital equipment. Perfect for high school students to use as a photography text or for individual browsing. Susan Gooden
Thompson, Paul B. Liberty’s Son: A Spy Story of the American Revolution.
Thompson, Paul B. Liberty’s Son: A Spy Story of the American Revolution.
Enslow 2009 160p 27.93 978-0-7660-3309-2 ms/jr
Historical American Biographies
Oliver Carter was a teenager who lived in Boston during 1773. He worked for the famous Dr. Benjamin Church. Both were members of the Sons of Liberty, but one of them was a traitor. The author has created an insightful story that will appeal to young readers as well as providing them with an clear understanding of the working conditions at the time. It was also evident that Oliver had to stand by his own beliefs and morals as he became more involved with the tea conspiracy.
As I read the book (which flew by the way), I was impressed with the characterization and attendance to details. The inclusion of : The Real History Behind the Story” is a terrific resource for both teachers and students. Supplementing it with further readings and internet resources will also be appreciated by schools. One of the most important aspects of this series is the support .pdf for educators. In today’s busy schools it is so hard to fit everything into the schedule. Teachers will be most appreciative of the tools and support provided for them.
I am teaching a course in historical fiction to teachers. I can certainly say that I will be highlighting this Historical Fiction Adventures series because of the above mentioned positives. Linda McNeil
Enslow 2009 160p 27.93 978-0-7660-3309-2 ms/jr
Historical American Biographies
Oliver Carter was a teenager who lived in Boston during 1773. He worked for the famous Dr. Benjamin Church. Both were members of the Sons of Liberty, but one of them was a traitor. The author has created an insightful story that will appeal to young readers as well as providing them with an clear understanding of the working conditions at the time. It was also evident that Oliver had to stand by his own beliefs and morals as he became more involved with the tea conspiracy.
As I read the book (which flew by the way), I was impressed with the characterization and attendance to details. The inclusion of : The Real History Behind the Story” is a terrific resource for both teachers and students. Supplementing it with further readings and internet resources will also be appreciated by schools. One of the most important aspects of this series is the support .pdf for educators. In today’s busy schools it is so hard to fit everything into the schedule. Teachers will be most appreciative of the tools and support provided for them.
I am teaching a course in historical fiction to teachers. I can certainly say that I will be highlighting this Historical Fiction Adventures series because of the above mentioned positives. Linda McNeil
Buckley, Michael. Nerds: National Espionage, Rescue, and Defense.
Buckley, Michael. Nerds: National Espionage, Rescue, and Defense.
Abrams, Harry 2009 315p 14.95 978-0-8109-4324-7 ms/jr
This is a humorous story about several misfits (or Nerds) who can save the world from destruction utilizing the technological tools found in the secret basement of their middle school.
Readers will have a humorous read when they become acquainted with the fifth grade super spies from NERD. Their name stands for National Espionage, Rescue, and Defense Society. The members of the team are considered geeks by most of the cool kids at the middle school. Nobody even suspects that the “Nerds” are super spies who skip class only to be transported by a school bus with very unusual powers. Along the same line no one even suspects that the geeks are led by none other than the janitor and the librarian.
The Nerds are hard put to find and neutralize a crazed scientist who has a plan to pull all of the continents together into one continent. Needless to say the scientist doesn’t care abut the death and destruction left in the wake of the reorganization. Hyena is a platinum haired former beauty queen turned killer for hire. It is up to her to procure the scientists and their inventions that are needed for building a giant magnetic disc to rearrange the continents.
The story is a humorous fast moving story that will delight readers. IN addition they will chuckle at such nicknames as: “Gluestick” Dewey, “Pufferfish” Peet, “Choppers” Hodges, “Flinch” Escala, “Wheezer” Choi, and “Braceface” Jones. Linda McNeil
Abrams, Harry 2009 315p 14.95 978-0-8109-4324-7 ms/jr
This is a humorous story about several misfits (or Nerds) who can save the world from destruction utilizing the technological tools found in the secret basement of their middle school.
Readers will have a humorous read when they become acquainted with the fifth grade super spies from NERD. Their name stands for National Espionage, Rescue, and Defense Society. The members of the team are considered geeks by most of the cool kids at the middle school. Nobody even suspects that the “Nerds” are super spies who skip class only to be transported by a school bus with very unusual powers. Along the same line no one even suspects that the geeks are led by none other than the janitor and the librarian.
The Nerds are hard put to find and neutralize a crazed scientist who has a plan to pull all of the continents together into one continent. Needless to say the scientist doesn’t care abut the death and destruction left in the wake of the reorganization. Hyena is a platinum haired former beauty queen turned killer for hire. It is up to her to procure the scientists and their inventions that are needed for building a giant magnetic disc to rearrange the continents.
The story is a humorous fast moving story that will delight readers. IN addition they will chuckle at such nicknames as: “Gluestick” Dewey, “Pufferfish” Peet, “Choppers” Hodges, “Flinch” Escala, “Wheezer” Choi, and “Braceface” Jones. Linda McNeil
Wilson, John. Death on the River.
Wilson, John. Death on the River.
Orca 2009 196p 12.95 978-1-55469-111-1 ms/jr
This is the story of Jake Clay, who joins the Union Army after his brother’s death. At the battle of Cold Harbour, VA. he is captured and sent to Andersonville. His story relates the horror, disease, and starvation soldiers underwent for the sake of freedom. Everyone knows that the Civil War was full of terror and devastation. These facts are brought out for the readers as they read through the trials and tribulations that Jake underwent.
As Jake describes the battle in VA. readers will see the cold hearted manner in which Generals sent their men into battle. You will glimpse what is it like to see your fellow soldiers dying and begging for help.
After his capture he is transported to Andersonville. The camp had over 30,000 soldiers. It was truly the survival of the fittest. The terrors of the camp overwhelmed him so he teamed up with Billy Shart, an opportunistic street kid who knew his way around the place. Many things happened during his stay in Andersonville that made Jake uncomfortable. Towards the end of the war Jake was haunted by the ghosts of those who died so he could live.
This is a well written book that will provide the reader with an understanding an insight into the perils of war. The author did a fantastic job of relating the cruelties of war without making it gruesome for young readers. Many times adolescents don’t realize the deadly undercurrents of some periods in our history. It needs to be brought into focus that participating in a war is not like playing a video game. Dead men do not come back to life. Linda McNeil
Orca 2009 196p 12.95 978-1-55469-111-1 ms/jr
This is the story of Jake Clay, who joins the Union Army after his brother’s death. At the battle of Cold Harbour, VA. he is captured and sent to Andersonville. His story relates the horror, disease, and starvation soldiers underwent for the sake of freedom. Everyone knows that the Civil War was full of terror and devastation. These facts are brought out for the readers as they read through the trials and tribulations that Jake underwent.
As Jake describes the battle in VA. readers will see the cold hearted manner in which Generals sent their men into battle. You will glimpse what is it like to see your fellow soldiers dying and begging for help.
After his capture he is transported to Andersonville. The camp had over 30,000 soldiers. It was truly the survival of the fittest. The terrors of the camp overwhelmed him so he teamed up with Billy Shart, an opportunistic street kid who knew his way around the place. Many things happened during his stay in Andersonville that made Jake uncomfortable. Towards the end of the war Jake was haunted by the ghosts of those who died so he could live.
This is a well written book that will provide the reader with an understanding an insight into the perils of war. The author did a fantastic job of relating the cruelties of war without making it gruesome for young readers. Many times adolescents don’t realize the deadly undercurrents of some periods in our history. It needs to be brought into focus that participating in a war is not like playing a video game. Dead men do not come back to life. Linda McNeil
Bechtel, Stefan. Tornado Hunter.
Bechtel, Stefan. Tornado Hunter.
National Geographic 2009 272p 24.00 978-1-4262-0302-2 all ages
Ride along with the ultimate risk-takers, tornado chasers. Learn about the lives of those who study tornadoes, the conditions necessary for tornado formation and the destruction tornadoes cause. Excellent science and adventure for grades 5 and up, including adults. This book will appeal to any seeker of adventure, the inventor, or the science nerd. The formation of tornadoes and the destruction they cause are all chronicled in a very readable book that intersperses science seamlessly into the adventure that tornado chasers thrive on. Text boxes provide quick facts that increase reader’s interest. Heart pounding descriptions of five tornadoes and what it is like to chase and become immersed in a tornado formation will keep the reader glued to the book. Quotations from survivors of tornadoes as well as the storm chasers make this book seem like a “you are there” history. Chapters introduce the reader to the people whose names have become synonymous with tornadoes. Fujita, for whom the destruction scale is named, started with mapping destruction from the atomic bomb in Hiroshima during World War II. His chance connection with an American scientist showed they were both working on similar concepts related to winds. Tim Samaras, ultimate tornado chaser and equipment design wizard is a man whose mind asks questions and the answers result in equipment that can withstand the wind force of the tornado and come out unharmed all the while collecting scientific data. His armored car is filled with instruments that help track weather systems as well as record current conditions. The drudgery of waiting for the perfect conditions for tornado formation and rough rides over fields and dirt roads show that tornado chasers must have patience as well as be risk-takers. A section of photos and index supplement the book. Fantastic reading for those interested in tornadoes. Grades 5-adult. Lois McNicol
National Geographic 2009 272p 24.00 978-1-4262-0302-2 all ages
Ride along with the ultimate risk-takers, tornado chasers. Learn about the lives of those who study tornadoes, the conditions necessary for tornado formation and the destruction tornadoes cause. Excellent science and adventure for grades 5 and up, including adults. This book will appeal to any seeker of adventure, the inventor, or the science nerd. The formation of tornadoes and the destruction they cause are all chronicled in a very readable book that intersperses science seamlessly into the adventure that tornado chasers thrive on. Text boxes provide quick facts that increase reader’s interest. Heart pounding descriptions of five tornadoes and what it is like to chase and become immersed in a tornado formation will keep the reader glued to the book. Quotations from survivors of tornadoes as well as the storm chasers make this book seem like a “you are there” history. Chapters introduce the reader to the people whose names have become synonymous with tornadoes. Fujita, for whom the destruction scale is named, started with mapping destruction from the atomic bomb in Hiroshima during World War II. His chance connection with an American scientist showed they were both working on similar concepts related to winds. Tim Samaras, ultimate tornado chaser and equipment design wizard is a man whose mind asks questions and the answers result in equipment that can withstand the wind force of the tornado and come out unharmed all the while collecting scientific data. His armored car is filled with instruments that help track weather systems as well as record current conditions. The drudgery of waiting for the perfect conditions for tornado formation and rough rides over fields and dirt roads show that tornado chasers must have patience as well as be risk-takers. A section of photos and index supplement the book. Fantastic reading for those interested in tornadoes. Grades 5-adult. Lois McNicol
Gaffney, Timothy R. Storm Scientist.
Gaffney, Timothy R. Storm Scientist.
Enslow 2010 112p 31.93 978-0-7660-3050-3 ms/hs
Wild Science Careers
Meteorologists unravel the mysteries of lightning, hurricanes, tornadoes, mountaintop weather, Arctic sea ice, Alaskan weather and global warming. Fact boxes, glossary, and amazing photographs provide a “you are there” approach. Will raise awareness of unique career opportunities Grades 6-12. Students looking for challenging careers in the out of doors will find six careers highlighted that are related to weather and global warming. Each chapter explores one career whether unraveling the mysteries of lightning, hurricanes, tornadoes, mountaintop weather, Arctic sea ice, or Alaskan weather. All relate their findings to potential effects of global warming. Fact boxes present facts about the phenomenon being studied as well as salary and educational background for the six meteorologists and scientists featured. Astonishing photographs, glossary words highlighted in the text, index and further reading will help answer questions of budding scientists. The interviews with the scientists create a “you are there” approach to career exploration. The passion displayed by the scientists for their field comes through in the writing. The excitement of the research is coupled with the mundane statistical analysis so as to give a realistic picture of the day-to-day life of a researcher studying weather related topics. Strongly suggested for middle and high school libraries as a first choice for career exploration classes. Lois McNicol
Enslow 2010 112p 31.93 978-0-7660-3050-3 ms/hs
Wild Science Careers
Meteorologists unravel the mysteries of lightning, hurricanes, tornadoes, mountaintop weather, Arctic sea ice, Alaskan weather and global warming. Fact boxes, glossary, and amazing photographs provide a “you are there” approach. Will raise awareness of unique career opportunities Grades 6-12. Students looking for challenging careers in the out of doors will find six careers highlighted that are related to weather and global warming. Each chapter explores one career whether unraveling the mysteries of lightning, hurricanes, tornadoes, mountaintop weather, Arctic sea ice, or Alaskan weather. All relate their findings to potential effects of global warming. Fact boxes present facts about the phenomenon being studied as well as salary and educational background for the six meteorologists and scientists featured. Astonishing photographs, glossary words highlighted in the text, index and further reading will help answer questions of budding scientists. The interviews with the scientists create a “you are there” approach to career exploration. The passion displayed by the scientists for their field comes through in the writing. The excitement of the research is coupled with the mundane statistical analysis so as to give a realistic picture of the day-to-day life of a researcher studying weather related topics. Strongly suggested for middle and high school libraries as a first choice for career exploration classes. Lois McNicol
Crain, Cynthia. Milton Friedman.
Crain, Cynthia. Milton Friedman.
Morgan Reynolds 2010 144p 28.95 978-1-59935-108-7 ms/hs
Profiles in Economics(MR)
Presents the economic philosophy, professional and personal life of Milton Friedman, who shook up reigning political economic theory, preferring a free market economy. Colorful photographs, timeline, further reading, chapter notes and index complete the book. For grades 7-12. Crain and Lee provide an introduction to Friedman’s free market economic theory that diverged markedly from the prevailing Keynesian model of how government interaction affects a national economy. Friedman was an entrepreneur from his early school days at Rutgers throughout his life. His personality made him welcome in academic circles and his hard work and keen mathematical ability made him a force to be reckoned with as he turned the economic world on its head by disparaging Keynesian economic model in favor of a free market economic theory. Crain and Lee present the personal side of Friedman as he meets the love of his life. His wife Rose, a brilliant economic mind in her own right was able to debate with Friedman as well as present herself admirably at summits of the best economic minds of the time. The couple was welcome across the globe and made and kept friends whether heads of state or students. The reader is introduced to Friedman’s economic concepts in such a way as to gain a basic understanding of the effects of a free market system on the cycle of recession and economic depression. Color photographs enhance the text. Timeline, further reading, chapter notes and index complete the book. Strongly recommended for middle and high school students interested in economics. Lois McNicol
Morgan Reynolds 2010 144p 28.95 978-1-59935-108-7 ms/hs
Profiles in Economics(MR)
Presents the economic philosophy, professional and personal life of Milton Friedman, who shook up reigning political economic theory, preferring a free market economy. Colorful photographs, timeline, further reading, chapter notes and index complete the book. For grades 7-12. Crain and Lee provide an introduction to Friedman’s free market economic theory that diverged markedly from the prevailing Keynesian model of how government interaction affects a national economy. Friedman was an entrepreneur from his early school days at Rutgers throughout his life. His personality made him welcome in academic circles and his hard work and keen mathematical ability made him a force to be reckoned with as he turned the economic world on its head by disparaging Keynesian economic model in favor of a free market economic theory. Crain and Lee present the personal side of Friedman as he meets the love of his life. His wife Rose, a brilliant economic mind in her own right was able to debate with Friedman as well as present herself admirably at summits of the best economic minds of the time. The couple was welcome across the globe and made and kept friends whether heads of state or students. The reader is introduced to Friedman’s economic concepts in such a way as to gain a basic understanding of the effects of a free market system on the cycle of recession and economic depression. Color photographs enhance the text. Timeline, further reading, chapter notes and index complete the book. Strongly recommended for middle and high school students interested in economics. Lois McNicol
Going, K.L. King of Screwups.
Going, K.L. King of Screwups.
Harcourt Brace/Houghton Mifflin 2009 310p 17.00 978-0-15-206258-3 ms/hs
Liam is Mr. Popularity, a jock who dresses well and impresses everyone, except his overbearing father. When he is kicked out of his house, he goes to live with his father’s gay brother, Aunt Pete. Going once again manages to tackle difficult subject with humor and memorable characters. This time she tackles both parental abuse and homosexuality with such wit that readers will not be able to put it down. Liam’s ability to constantly disappoint his overbearing father, and his unlikely bond with his gay uncle, Aunt Pete, will resonate with readers. This novel will appeal to both male and female readers, and will be a good companion to Twisted by Laurie Halse Anderson, as the characters both go on voyages of self-discovery and overcome overbearing father-figures.
This novel has the potential to follow in the footsteps of Going’s Fat Kid Rules the World. An enjoyable read for upper middle and high school students. With the great cover, even reluctant readers will pick this one up, and recommend it to their friends. Pat Naismith
Harcourt Brace/Houghton Mifflin 2009 310p 17.00 978-0-15-206258-3 ms/hs
Liam is Mr. Popularity, a jock who dresses well and impresses everyone, except his overbearing father. When he is kicked out of his house, he goes to live with his father’s gay brother, Aunt Pete. Going once again manages to tackle difficult subject with humor and memorable characters. This time she tackles both parental abuse and homosexuality with such wit that readers will not be able to put it down. Liam’s ability to constantly disappoint his overbearing father, and his unlikely bond with his gay uncle, Aunt Pete, will resonate with readers. This novel will appeal to both male and female readers, and will be a good companion to Twisted by Laurie Halse Anderson, as the characters both go on voyages of self-discovery and overcome overbearing father-figures.
This novel has the potential to follow in the footsteps of Going’s Fat Kid Rules the World. An enjoyable read for upper middle and high school students. With the great cover, even reluctant readers will pick this one up, and recommend it to their friends. Pat Naismith
Thimmesh, Catherine. Lucy Long Ago.
Thimmesh, Catherine. Lucy Long Ago.
Houghton Mifflin/Clarion/Graphia/Kingfisher 2009 64p 18.00 978-0-547-05199-4 ms/hs
Catherine Thimmesh has done a masterful job of “uncovering the mystery of where we came from,” explaining how the discovery of the hominid skeleton named Lucy would change paleontologists’ view of the evolution of mankind. Catherine Thimmesh has done a masterful job of “uncovering the mystery of where we came from.” With Donald Johanson’s discovery of the hominid skeleton soon named Lucy in 1974, paleontologists’ view of the human family tree was altered irrevocably. Lucy fit into no conventional branch of our ancestral tree and changed the accepted perspective of the evolution of man.
This compelling narrative of mankind’s history begins with a description of the death of an unnamed hominid and its final unearthing in Ethiopia. The book continues with a lively and detailed discussion on the recovery of the bones and their study and how scientists’ developed hypotheses to include and explain this new information. The book is both thoughtfully presented and visually exciting. The fascinating text is enhanced by vibrant, labeled cross-section illustrations, stunning color photographs, and boxed sections, and the information offered is clearly explained. The book ends with a glossary, acknowledgments, a bibliography of source material, and an index. Susan Ogintz
Houghton Mifflin/Clarion/Graphia/Kingfisher 2009 64p 18.00 978-0-547-05199-4 ms/hs
Catherine Thimmesh has done a masterful job of “uncovering the mystery of where we came from,” explaining how the discovery of the hominid skeleton named Lucy would change paleontologists’ view of the evolution of mankind. Catherine Thimmesh has done a masterful job of “uncovering the mystery of where we came from.” With Donald Johanson’s discovery of the hominid skeleton soon named Lucy in 1974, paleontologists’ view of the human family tree was altered irrevocably. Lucy fit into no conventional branch of our ancestral tree and changed the accepted perspective of the evolution of man.
This compelling narrative of mankind’s history begins with a description of the death of an unnamed hominid and its final unearthing in Ethiopia. The book continues with a lively and detailed discussion on the recovery of the bones and their study and how scientists’ developed hypotheses to include and explain this new information. The book is both thoughtfully presented and visually exciting. The fascinating text is enhanced by vibrant, labeled cross-section illustrations, stunning color photographs, and boxed sections, and the information offered is clearly explained. The book ends with a glossary, acknowledgments, a bibliography of source material, and an index. Susan Ogintz
Sandler, Martin W. Dust Bowl Through the Lens.
Sandler, Martin W. Dust Bowl Through the Lens.
Walker & Co 2009 96p 19.99 978-0-8027-9547-2 ms/hs
A collection of historic photographs that capture the devastation that plagued the Dust Bowl and the courage and enduring spirit of the people who tried to save their homes and livelihood during the era. This excellent photo-essay traces the history of the Dust Bowl from its causes to its resolution. Through the eyes of famous practitioners of the relatively new art form, the lives of the farmers and others suffering through this bleak period of US history are given substance and voice. A beautifully imagined and executed volume, this book intersperses quotes from famous individuals with break-taking photos and narrative text.
The volume also includes bibliographic references, a filmography and a comprehensive index. A truly magnificent collection of historic photographs that changed the mind of a nation. A wonderful addition to history collections for middle and high schools. An excellent companion to America through the lens and Lincoln through the lens. Pat Naismith
Walker & Co 2009 96p 19.99 978-0-8027-9547-2 ms/hs
A collection of historic photographs that capture the devastation that plagued the Dust Bowl and the courage and enduring spirit of the people who tried to save their homes and livelihood during the era. This excellent photo-essay traces the history of the Dust Bowl from its causes to its resolution. Through the eyes of famous practitioners of the relatively new art form, the lives of the farmers and others suffering through this bleak period of US history are given substance and voice. A beautifully imagined and executed volume, this book intersperses quotes from famous individuals with break-taking photos and narrative text.
The volume also includes bibliographic references, a filmography and a comprehensive index. A truly magnificent collection of historic photographs that changed the mind of a nation. A wonderful addition to history collections for middle and high schools. An excellent companion to America through the lens and Lincoln through the lens. Pat Naismith
Weitzman, David. Pharaoh’s Boat.
Weitzman, David. Pharaoh’s Boat.
Houghton Mifflin/Clarion/Graphia/Kingfisher 2009 unp 18.00 978-0-547-05341-7 all ages
During the excavation of the Great Pyramid of Cheops in the 1950’s, the great Sun Boat that was to ferry the Pharaoh Cheops to his eternal life was discovered. Weitzman offers an eloquently described and vividly illustrated account of its excavation and reconstruction. During the excavation of the Great Pyramid of Cheops in the 1950’s, an unusual wall was found that disturbed the perfectly geometric plans of the pyramid. It would lead Egyptian archeologist Ahmed Youssef Moustafa to a spectacular discovery, the Great Boat of Re built to ferry the Pharaoh across the river of the sky to his eternal afterlife. Weitzman smoothly moves between vivid descriptions of the time of Cheops and the careful plans his son Djedefre made to facilitate his father’s safe passage and eloquently portrays the construction and rebuilding of Pharaoh’s boat. After the boat was completed, it was taken apart and set so that Cheops could reassemble it for his journey. When it was uncovered, Moustafa would join local boat builders and piece together the puzzle of the ancient boat. The lively and informative text is greatly enhanced by the vibrant, labeled cross-sections, supplemental sidebars and resplendent hieroglyphics, and magnificent stylized color illustrations of the Egyptian workmen and their tools presented just as if they could be found on the walls of the pyramid. These include greatly detailed pictures, drawings, and cutaway diagrams that support the information perfectly. The book ends with an afterword and map . This well-balanced, succinct, and lucid treatment of the topic is sure SO
Egypt-History
Houghton Mifflin/Clarion/Graphia/Kingfisher 2009 unp 18.00 978-0-547-05341-7 all ages
During the excavation of the Great Pyramid of Cheops in the 1950’s, the great Sun Boat that was to ferry the Pharaoh Cheops to his eternal life was discovered. Weitzman offers an eloquently described and vividly illustrated account of its excavation and reconstruction. During the excavation of the Great Pyramid of Cheops in the 1950’s, an unusual wall was found that disturbed the perfectly geometric plans of the pyramid. It would lead Egyptian archeologist Ahmed Youssef Moustafa to a spectacular discovery, the Great Boat of Re built to ferry the Pharaoh across the river of the sky to his eternal afterlife. Weitzman smoothly moves between vivid descriptions of the time of Cheops and the careful plans his son Djedefre made to facilitate his father’s safe passage and eloquently portrays the construction and rebuilding of Pharaoh’s boat. After the boat was completed, it was taken apart and set so that Cheops could reassemble it for his journey. When it was uncovered, Moustafa would join local boat builders and piece together the puzzle of the ancient boat. The lively and informative text is greatly enhanced by the vibrant, labeled cross-sections, supplemental sidebars and resplendent hieroglyphics, and magnificent stylized color illustrations of the Egyptian workmen and their tools presented just as if they could be found on the walls of the pyramid. These include greatly detailed pictures, drawings, and cutaway diagrams that support the information perfectly. The book ends with an afterword and map . This well-balanced, succinct, and lucid treatment of the topic is sure SO
Egypt-History
Sutcliff, Rosemary. Knight’s Fee.
Sutcliff, Rosemary. Knight’s Fee.
Front Street Books (see Boyd's Mill Press) 2008 285p 10.95 978-1-59078-640-6 jr/sr
A few decades after the Battle of Hastings, a fig falls from a parapet and an orphan boy’s life changes forever. Sutcliff combines well-drawn characters with authentic dialog, historical detail and a story that takes the reader to another time and place. Knight's Fee is a compelling story about the early Norman period in French and English history. We meet Randal, a ten year old orphan boy, who lives in Arundel castle. He survives by caring for the dogs living with them in the kennel. Lord Hugh Montgomery, one of the sons of William the Conquerer, is returning home from battle and as he enters the castle, Randal accidentally drops a partially eaten fig onto his horse.
Later Randal is identified as the culprit. Brutally shaken just short of death, Randal is saved through the intervention of Montgomery’s minstrel. The minstrel gives Randal into the care of Sir Everard d’Aguillon, an honorable and just knight, and will become the squire of d’Aguillon’s grandson, Bevis. Meanwhile, Randal has learned an important secret that will affect the course of history.
This is a great read for students as well as adults. It has an interesting plot, characters to care about and dialog that allows the reader to travel back in history.
I wish that the publisher had chosen a better cover. This edition is dark blue-gray with the image of chess piece representing the knight. It does not do a good job of conveying the adventure inside the cover.
Spadaro, Trish
Front Street Books (see Boyd's Mill Press) 2008 285p 10.95 978-1-59078-640-6 jr/sr
A few decades after the Battle of Hastings, a fig falls from a parapet and an orphan boy’s life changes forever. Sutcliff combines well-drawn characters with authentic dialog, historical detail and a story that takes the reader to another time and place. Knight's Fee is a compelling story about the early Norman period in French and English history. We meet Randal, a ten year old orphan boy, who lives in Arundel castle. He survives by caring for the dogs living with them in the kennel. Lord Hugh Montgomery, one of the sons of William the Conquerer, is returning home from battle and as he enters the castle, Randal accidentally drops a partially eaten fig onto his horse.
Later Randal is identified as the culprit. Brutally shaken just short of death, Randal is saved through the intervention of Montgomery’s minstrel. The minstrel gives Randal into the care of Sir Everard d’Aguillon, an honorable and just knight, and will become the squire of d’Aguillon’s grandson, Bevis. Meanwhile, Randal has learned an important secret that will affect the course of history.
This is a great read for students as well as adults. It has an interesting plot, characters to care about and dialog that allows the reader to travel back in history.
I wish that the publisher had chosen a better cover. This edition is dark blue-gray with the image of chess piece representing the knight. It does not do a good job of conveying the adventure inside the cover.
Spadaro, Trish
Beals, Katharine. Raising a Left-Brain Child in a Right-Brain World.
Beals, Katharine. Raising a Left-Brain Child in a Right-Brain World.
Random House/Knopf/Anchor/Three Rivers 2009 232 16.95 978-1-5903-0650-5 adult
Presents a case for accommodating socially awkward students who may just have an unexpected learning style. According to the author, these children generally will not perform well in the current collaborative social classroom setting. She presents strategies for parents to help adjust their learning environment and strengthen skills at home. Using multiple case studies the author gives examples of children who present as different from the norm in their social awkwardness and need for strict sequencing in their learning environment. She further claims that current educational reform with its emphasis on right-brain skills and collaborative projects interferes with the ability for these children to display their sometimes gifted abilities.
Within the label of left-brain children, the author also includes those with Nonverbal Learning Disabilities, high-functioning autistic children and those with Asperger’s Syndrome in addition to those that are very analytical. Not only do these left brained students achieve more in school with direct instruction, forcing them into groups and collaborative projects can cause mental and emotional distress to them.
Left brain children tend to be introverted, concrete thinkers and are unwilling to share personal information so shun the activities that require intimate personal response. They will not be comfortable if they are expected to connect what they learn to themselves. Finally,it is ironic that as much as vow to support individuality we really are a society that, “values social skills over academic accomplishment, extroversion over introversion, and group cooperation over individual accomplishment.”(5)
The author is highly critical of current curriculum trends particularly as they manifest in math and science. Also, in her opinion, there is too wide and somewhat vague description of personality types that are now considered a disorder. According to her research, in 1958 the total number of school counselors was 12 Thousand and school psychologists were rare in public schools. Today there are over ninety thousand counselors and thirty-five thousand psychologists in the public schools(30).
The strength of this book lies in the advice to parents on how to advocate for the child at school as well as strategies for working on some of the social issues.
Spadaro, Trish
Random House/Knopf/Anchor/Three Rivers 2009 232 16.95 978-1-5903-0650-5 adult
Presents a case for accommodating socially awkward students who may just have an unexpected learning style. According to the author, these children generally will not perform well in the current collaborative social classroom setting. She presents strategies for parents to help adjust their learning environment and strengthen skills at home. Using multiple case studies the author gives examples of children who present as different from the norm in their social awkwardness and need for strict sequencing in their learning environment. She further claims that current educational reform with its emphasis on right-brain skills and collaborative projects interferes with the ability for these children to display their sometimes gifted abilities.
Within the label of left-brain children, the author also includes those with Nonverbal Learning Disabilities, high-functioning autistic children and those with Asperger’s Syndrome in addition to those that are very analytical. Not only do these left brained students achieve more in school with direct instruction, forcing them into groups and collaborative projects can cause mental and emotional distress to them.
Left brain children tend to be introverted, concrete thinkers and are unwilling to share personal information so shun the activities that require intimate personal response. They will not be comfortable if they are expected to connect what they learn to themselves. Finally,it is ironic that as much as vow to support individuality we really are a society that, “values social skills over academic accomplishment, extroversion over introversion, and group cooperation over individual accomplishment.”(5)
The author is highly critical of current curriculum trends particularly as they manifest in math and science. Also, in her opinion, there is too wide and somewhat vague description of personality types that are now considered a disorder. According to her research, in 1958 the total number of school counselors was 12 Thousand and school psychologists were rare in public schools. Today there are over ninety thousand counselors and thirty-five thousand psychologists in the public schools(30).
The strength of this book lies in the advice to parents on how to advocate for the child at school as well as strategies for working on some of the social issues.
Spadaro, Trish
Randall, Thomas. The Waking: Dreams of the Dead.
Randall, Thomas. The Waking: Dreams of the Dead.
Bloomsbury see St. Martins 2009 276p 8.99 978-1-59990-250-0 hs
Kara Foster moves to Japan to attend a traditional Japanese school where her father will teach. At school she soon learns that a female student had been murdered and more students continue to die in mysterious circumstances. Kara is caught up in an apparent supernatural mystery when clues start to appear in her dreams. After the death of her mother Kara Foster goes to Japan with her father, the new English teacher at the Monju-no-Chie school. Kara is the only Western student at the school and while learning about Japanese school culture she is finding that in many ways the students that she encounters are like those at home.
Luckily Kara is able to make friends with a few girls that take her under their wing and a romance with one of the popular boys seems to be developing as well.
Not long after arriving Kara learns that a young female student recently died in mysterious circumstance and that one of her new friends, Sakura, is the younger sister of the victim. When visiting a shrine that the students made for the murdered girl, Kara has a frightening encounter with what seems to be a ghost cat, one that keeps appearing in her dreams. Dreams that are awash in blood. Other people are having these dreams too. Gradually the dreams take possession of Kara even during the day.
Not every student likes Kara and she is constantly harassed by a clique that tries to bully her. Some members of the clique also die violently. By the end of the novel Kara and her friends have learned the significance of the cat that keeps appearing in dreams and they develop a plan to stop the evil that has invaded their school.
The story is reminiscent of Manga at its best. The cultural detail is fascinating and the incorporation of the supernatural and Japanese mythology sensational. The Japanese characters are simultaneously familiar and yet exotic. However,one of the most striking feature here is how the situation of being a new school and feeling foreign, thinking you’ll never fit in is universal.
Spadaro, Trish
Bloomsbury see St. Martins 2009 276p 8.99 978-1-59990-250-0 hs
Kara Foster moves to Japan to attend a traditional Japanese school where her father will teach. At school she soon learns that a female student had been murdered and more students continue to die in mysterious circumstances. Kara is caught up in an apparent supernatural mystery when clues start to appear in her dreams. After the death of her mother Kara Foster goes to Japan with her father, the new English teacher at the Monju-no-Chie school. Kara is the only Western student at the school and while learning about Japanese school culture she is finding that in many ways the students that she encounters are like those at home.
Luckily Kara is able to make friends with a few girls that take her under their wing and a romance with one of the popular boys seems to be developing as well.
Not long after arriving Kara learns that a young female student recently died in mysterious circumstance and that one of her new friends, Sakura, is the younger sister of the victim. When visiting a shrine that the students made for the murdered girl, Kara has a frightening encounter with what seems to be a ghost cat, one that keeps appearing in her dreams. Dreams that are awash in blood. Other people are having these dreams too. Gradually the dreams take possession of Kara even during the day.
Not every student likes Kara and she is constantly harassed by a clique that tries to bully her. Some members of the clique also die violently. By the end of the novel Kara and her friends have learned the significance of the cat that keeps appearing in dreams and they develop a plan to stop the evil that has invaded their school.
The story is reminiscent of Manga at its best. The cultural detail is fascinating and the incorporation of the supernatural and Japanese mythology sensational. The Japanese characters are simultaneously familiar and yet exotic. However,one of the most striking feature here is how the situation of being a new school and feeling foreign, thinking you’ll never fit in is universal.
Spadaro, Trish
Friedman, Lauri. Dangerous Dues: What You Need To Know About Gangs.
Friedman, Lauri. Dangerous Dues: What You Need To Know About Gangs.
Compass Point Books/Capstone 2010 48p 27.99 978-0-7565-4253-5 ms/hs
What’s the issue (Compass Point) A chilling look at gang involvement based on teen interviews. This book does much to dispel the myth and glamour gangs have received in popular culture. Why does someone join a gang? Several reasons are given in answer this question. Some join a gang to substitute for a family others join to gain a feeling of power and respect and still others are compelled to join. Those that feel compelled to join do so for protection or because another family member was in one already. Sometimes people think they will like the lifestyle which they perceive as one of parties, money and ‘bling.’
Sadly, gang membership is not a benign brotherhood and children find out the costs too late. Gang initiation can include beating, rape and sometimes being made to commit a crime. Once in a gang it can be difficult to leave.
The final message here is that it is possible to find a better life and the experience of several individuals are given as a message of hope. To get the support needed to leave a gang contact information for several organizations are listed.
There is a brief glossary and index included as well are references to other sources.
Spadaro, Trish
Compass Point Books/Capstone 2010 48p 27.99 978-0-7565-4253-5 ms/hs
What’s the issue (Compass Point) A chilling look at gang involvement based on teen interviews. This book does much to dispel the myth and glamour gangs have received in popular culture. Why does someone join a gang? Several reasons are given in answer this question. Some join a gang to substitute for a family others join to gain a feeling of power and respect and still others are compelled to join. Those that feel compelled to join do so for protection or because another family member was in one already. Sometimes people think they will like the lifestyle which they perceive as one of parties, money and ‘bling.’
Sadly, gang membership is not a benign brotherhood and children find out the costs too late. Gang initiation can include beating, rape and sometimes being made to commit a crime. Once in a gang it can be difficult to leave.
The final message here is that it is possible to find a better life and the experience of several individuals are given as a message of hope. To get the support needed to leave a gang contact information for several organizations are listed.
There is a brief glossary and index included as well are references to other sources.
Spadaro, Trish
Feinstein, Stephen. Columbus : Opening up the New World.
Feinstein, Stephen. Columbus : Opening up the New World
Enslow 2009 112p 31.93 978-1-59845-101-6 jr/sr
Great Explorers of the World (Enslow)
Lots of primary source material allows us to hear Columbus’ true voice and provides an accessible historical look at the explorer his accomplishments, his harsh treatment of native populations and an explanation for how his career ended in disgrace. Here is Columbus as a real man. The author uses multiple historical documents that allow Columbus to speak for himself. These include his logs and letters and documents written by his contemporaries. Seen objectively, Columbus is not the admirable explorer that legend has given us but instead is someone far less admirable. It is shocking to learn exactly how his policies were resulted in the annihilation of millions of Arawak Indians. Moreover, his brutal treatment of the native population was also criticized by his contemporaries and that criticism of his actions is not revisionist history.
The detailed timeline at the beginning of the book is useful for locating sections within chapters because each chapter is subdivided by date. The index at the back allows access to more specific details. Most of the chapters within the book concerns his life at sea and his explorations but there are some additional personal details about his family and marriage to Felipa Moniz Perestrello .
A striking feature of the book’s design is its generous use of color in text and illustrations. Several of the chapters begin with the same illustration of the Santa Maria on different color background. The repeated use of this picture and several other brightly colored images make this appear more juvenile that its actual content. Additional images are taken from art prints,document facsimiles and maps.
The last chapter contains many excellent examples of how Columbus’ voyages led to an exchange of peoples, products and ideas among three parts of the world -- the Americas, Europe and Africa.(87) The author connects with voyages of geographical exploration with the intellectual exploration of the Reformation. He concludes with an overview of the slave trade.
Spadaro, Trish
Enslow 2009 112p 31.93 978-1-59845-101-6 jr/sr
Great Explorers of the World (Enslow)
Lots of primary source material allows us to hear Columbus’ true voice and provides an accessible historical look at the explorer his accomplishments, his harsh treatment of native populations and an explanation for how his career ended in disgrace. Here is Columbus as a real man. The author uses multiple historical documents that allow Columbus to speak for himself. These include his logs and letters and documents written by his contemporaries. Seen objectively, Columbus is not the admirable explorer that legend has given us but instead is someone far less admirable. It is shocking to learn exactly how his policies were resulted in the annihilation of millions of Arawak Indians. Moreover, his brutal treatment of the native population was also criticized by his contemporaries and that criticism of his actions is not revisionist history.
The detailed timeline at the beginning of the book is useful for locating sections within chapters because each chapter is subdivided by date. The index at the back allows access to more specific details. Most of the chapters within the book concerns his life at sea and his explorations but there are some additional personal details about his family and marriage to Felipa Moniz Perestrello .
A striking feature of the book’s design is its generous use of color in text and illustrations. Several of the chapters begin with the same illustration of the Santa Maria on different color background. The repeated use of this picture and several other brightly colored images make this appear more juvenile that its actual content. Additional images are taken from art prints,document facsimiles and maps.
The last chapter contains many excellent examples of how Columbus’ voyages led to an exchange of peoples, products and ideas among three parts of the world -- the Americas, Europe and Africa.(87) The author connects with voyages of geographical exploration with the intellectual exploration of the Reformation. He concludes with an overview of the slave trade.
Spadaro, Trish
Pearson, Mary E. The Miles Between.
Pearson, Mary E. The Miles Between.
Henry Holt 2009 266p 16.99 978-0-8050-8828-1 jr/sr
It’s not fair! But what if life could be fair even for just one special day? Travel with Destiny on her magical birthday when she finds friends, comes to terms with her past and learns that everything is going to be OK after all. Destiny Faraday is a lonely girl who has been consigned to life in boarding school. Apparently her parents have deserted her but we don’t know why. Changing schools frequently, she wakes up on her 17th birthday knowing that she will spend it alone at her new school. Because Des has learned to keep her distance from other people she feels friendless. Today her life is about to change. Finding a pale pink convertible with the keys inside, parked outside her school, Des convinces another student, Sean, to drive it. Mira sees them leaving and wants to go too. Mira then grabs Aidan and the four play hooky. They plan to go to the town that Destiny calls home.Luckily there is plenty of money in the glove compartment so they can enjoy the day without worry. Destiny does have twinges of conscious about this but is driven by a need to see her home.
There is clearly some mystery surrounding Destiny’s life and until the story is revealed we can only guess what it is. During this journey, Des is able to come to terms with family issues that she has refused to deal with. Returning to school everything works out in the most amazing way.
This is a lovely story that engages the emotions of the reader and we see Destiny’s life both from her perspective and that of the people who care for her. Spadaro, Trish
Henry Holt 2009 266p 16.99 978-0-8050-8828-1 jr/sr
It’s not fair! But what if life could be fair even for just one special day? Travel with Destiny on her magical birthday when she finds friends, comes to terms with her past and learns that everything is going to be OK after all. Destiny Faraday is a lonely girl who has been consigned to life in boarding school. Apparently her parents have deserted her but we don’t know why. Changing schools frequently, she wakes up on her 17th birthday knowing that she will spend it alone at her new school. Because Des has learned to keep her distance from other people she feels friendless. Today her life is about to change. Finding a pale pink convertible with the keys inside, parked outside her school, Des convinces another student, Sean, to drive it. Mira sees them leaving and wants to go too. Mira then grabs Aidan and the four play hooky. They plan to go to the town that Destiny calls home.Luckily there is plenty of money in the glove compartment so they can enjoy the day without worry. Destiny does have twinges of conscious about this but is driven by a need to see her home.
There is clearly some mystery surrounding Destiny’s life and until the story is revealed we can only guess what it is. During this journey, Des is able to come to terms with family issues that she has refused to deal with. Returning to school everything works out in the most amazing way.
This is a lovely story that engages the emotions of the reader and we see Destiny’s life both from her perspective and that of the people who care for her. Spadaro, Trish
Dekker, James C. Impact.
Dekker, James C. Impact.
Orca 2009 94 16.95 978-1-55143-997-6 ms/hs
What starts as a study of violence against a teenager ends with a surprise climactic moment when Jordan reveals his role in his brother’s death. The family suffers the effects of this senseless murder. One wonders how much more it will suffer if the truth ever comes out. In this short study of jealousy, pain of loss, a slow court system and culpability, James Dekker unravels a powerful plot in which the details of Mark’s murder are told by his brother. Four boys brutally beat up Mark after his work shift one night. Their actions reflect the jealousy of one teen, Tony, who convinces 3 friends to go along with him as he seeks revenge because Mark is dating his former girlfriend, Shannon. When Mark’s family learns that a neighbor boy, Kyle, is also involved, they are devastated. Each chapter is introduced by Mark and Jordan’s dad as he writes the victim impact statement he will read in court before the sentencing. By the end, we know the anguish of loss. We also know the role of each teen in the murder. When Kyle is sentenced to time paid for his role in luring Mark to a dark parking lot on that fateful night, the family is crushed! Imagine our surprise when Jordan’s role in the murder is revealed! As one finds out, Jordan was jealous of his brother for capturing the heart of the girl that he had hoped to take out, the very same, Shannon! Jordan told Kyle where his brother would be that night, implicating himself in the murder of his own brother! Kyle exchanged his testimony for freedom, but covered for Jordan. The author ends with a Cain-Abel story of brother turning on brother, but in this case, the truth never comes out. Jordan must live with his guilt forever.
The book ends with a list of Orca Soundings’ books and a preview of books soon to be published.
Squaresky, Martha
Orca 2009 94 16.95 978-1-55143-997-6 ms/hs
What starts as a study of violence against a teenager ends with a surprise climactic moment when Jordan reveals his role in his brother’s death. The family suffers the effects of this senseless murder. One wonders how much more it will suffer if the truth ever comes out. In this short study of jealousy, pain of loss, a slow court system and culpability, James Dekker unravels a powerful plot in which the details of Mark’s murder are told by his brother. Four boys brutally beat up Mark after his work shift one night. Their actions reflect the jealousy of one teen, Tony, who convinces 3 friends to go along with him as he seeks revenge because Mark is dating his former girlfriend, Shannon. When Mark’s family learns that a neighbor boy, Kyle, is also involved, they are devastated. Each chapter is introduced by Mark and Jordan’s dad as he writes the victim impact statement he will read in court before the sentencing. By the end, we know the anguish of loss. We also know the role of each teen in the murder. When Kyle is sentenced to time paid for his role in luring Mark to a dark parking lot on that fateful night, the family is crushed! Imagine our surprise when Jordan’s role in the murder is revealed! As one finds out, Jordan was jealous of his brother for capturing the heart of the girl that he had hoped to take out, the very same, Shannon! Jordan told Kyle where his brother would be that night, implicating himself in the murder of his own brother! Kyle exchanged his testimony for freedom, but covered for Jordan. The author ends with a Cain-Abel story of brother turning on brother, but in this case, the truth never comes out. Jordan must live with his guilt forever.
The book ends with a list of Orca Soundings’ books and a preview of books soon to be published.
Squaresky, Martha
Michael, Jan. City Boy.
Michael, Jan. City Boy.
Clarion see Houghton Mifflin 2009 186p 16.00 978-0-547223-10-0 ms
Sam loses his parents to AIDS in this novel about acceptance which is set in Malawi. When Sam’s aunt brings him home, he must learn to accept new surroundings, new family members, and a new life, without his parents. The reader is reminded of Sylvia Plath’s, The Bell Jar, in Jan Michael’s, City Boy, due to the theme. In both novels, children must accept the death of a loved one. There are pain, confusion and fear in both novels as well. That is where the similarity disappears. Author, Jan Michael, has chosen Africa as the setting, a poor but proud family in the supportive role and a plot that is compelling. City dweller, Sam, is taken in by his aunt after his parents die of AIDS. His only mementos are a photograph of his parents and his blue sneakers. Both symbolize the life which he must leave as well as his new life. The “Disease”, as AIDS is called, has left Aunt Mercy single, with a family of 4 to support. She has dedicated her life to the children, even refusing to marry the carpenter because she knows that to do so might spread the “Disease” yet again. Instead, she welcomes Sam, teaches him the value of sharing, the importance of family, and the necessity of looking forward after tragedy. She loves him and patiently waits for him to accept his new surroundings. Throughout the book, we feel Sam’s pain, the pain of loss. The descriptions of Malawi are beautiful. The theme is universal. The vocabulary is rich and authentic. As a cultural study, City Boy presents a unique story in a unique setting that leaves the reader a good deal more knowledgeable about the challenges of rural African life. There is one punctuation error. On page 84, second paragraph, there should be a period after “she would shut up the dog first.” Squaresky, Martha
Clarion see Houghton Mifflin 2009 186p 16.00 978-0-547223-10-0 ms
Sam loses his parents to AIDS in this novel about acceptance which is set in Malawi. When Sam’s aunt brings him home, he must learn to accept new surroundings, new family members, and a new life, without his parents. The reader is reminded of Sylvia Plath’s, The Bell Jar, in Jan Michael’s, City Boy, due to the theme. In both novels, children must accept the death of a loved one. There are pain, confusion and fear in both novels as well. That is where the similarity disappears. Author, Jan Michael, has chosen Africa as the setting, a poor but proud family in the supportive role and a plot that is compelling. City dweller, Sam, is taken in by his aunt after his parents die of AIDS. His only mementos are a photograph of his parents and his blue sneakers. Both symbolize the life which he must leave as well as his new life. The “Disease”, as AIDS is called, has left Aunt Mercy single, with a family of 4 to support. She has dedicated her life to the children, even refusing to marry the carpenter because she knows that to do so might spread the “Disease” yet again. Instead, she welcomes Sam, teaches him the value of sharing, the importance of family, and the necessity of looking forward after tragedy. She loves him and patiently waits for him to accept his new surroundings. Throughout the book, we feel Sam’s pain, the pain of loss. The descriptions of Malawi are beautiful. The theme is universal. The vocabulary is rich and authentic. As a cultural study, City Boy presents a unique story in a unique setting that leaves the reader a good deal more knowledgeable about the challenges of rural African life. There is one punctuation error. On page 84, second paragraph, there should be a period after “she would shut up the dog first.” Squaresky, Martha
Gold, Rosanne. Eat Fresh Food: Awesome recipes for Teen Chefs.
Gold, Rosanne. Eat Fresh Food: Awesome recipes for Teen Chefs.
Bloomsbury see St. Martins 2009 160p 17.99 978-1-59990-445-0 ms/hs
A food writer and winner of three James Beard awards has teamed with a nutritionist and several teen sous-chefs to present a fun and healthy book of recipes that teens will want to cook. The bright luscious photographs of the food and the teens preparing and eating it will make you want to head for the kitchen. Rozanne Gold, food writer and winner of three James Beard awards for her other cookbooks has teamed with a nutritionist and several teen sous-chefs to present a fun and healthy book of recipes that teens will want to cook.
The author states that the letters in “fresh” stand for farmer-friendly, ripe-ready, easy-exciting, sustainable and honest-healthy. Readers are encouraged to be a locavore and visit farmers within fifty miles of home for their ingredients when possible. Organic foods are explained, notes are provided on pantry staples, equipment, and safety.
The recipes are divided into seven chapters according to the meal or type of food. The bright luscious photographs of the food and the teens preparing and eating the food are the stars of the book. Recipes range from Asian summer rolls to whole wheat bread. The recipe for mac and cheese contains cauliflower and the sauce is made bright and rich with a red bell pepper and garlic puree. Four of the desserts require an ice cream maker.
A section of menus for using the recipes for special occasions and an index complete the book. Margaret Tatro
Bloomsbury see St. Martins 2009 160p 17.99 978-1-59990-445-0 ms/hs
A food writer and winner of three James Beard awards has teamed with a nutritionist and several teen sous-chefs to present a fun and healthy book of recipes that teens will want to cook. The bright luscious photographs of the food and the teens preparing and eating it will make you want to head for the kitchen. Rozanne Gold, food writer and winner of three James Beard awards for her other cookbooks has teamed with a nutritionist and several teen sous-chefs to present a fun and healthy book of recipes that teens will want to cook.
The author states that the letters in “fresh” stand for farmer-friendly, ripe-ready, easy-exciting, sustainable and honest-healthy. Readers are encouraged to be a locavore and visit farmers within fifty miles of home for their ingredients when possible. Organic foods are explained, notes are provided on pantry staples, equipment, and safety.
The recipes are divided into seven chapters according to the meal or type of food. The bright luscious photographs of the food and the teens preparing and eating the food are the stars of the book. Recipes range from Asian summer rolls to whole wheat bread. The recipe for mac and cheese contains cauliflower and the sauce is made bright and rich with a red bell pepper and garlic puree. Four of the desserts require an ice cream maker.
A section of menus for using the recipes for special occasions and an index complete the book. Margaret Tatro
Henham, R.D. Green Dragon Codex.
Henham, R.D. Green Dragon Codex.
Random House/Knopf/Anchor/Three Rivers 2009 243 9.95 978-0-7869-5145-1 ms/hs
Thirteen-year-old Scamp, his older brother Mather, and friend Dannika, set out to find someone who can protect the mysterious globe and tablet that Scamp found by the corpse of a dead dragon. They are chased by evil doers with magical powers. They are chased by evil doers with magical powers. Scamp always seems to be in trouble because he is an accident waiting to happen. His older brother lectures him frequently but doesn’t step in and help. Dannika has a mystical connection to her mentor Pena. The three are sent on a quest to find help protecting the tablet and egg. Along the way the egg hatches revealing a green dragon. Throughout history, green dragons have been evil, but Scamp has faith that he can train the dragon hatchling he names Pug, to be good.
As the group is attacked, and when it seems obvious that they will be killed, either magic or the courage of the trio, or a combination of these two always saves them.
An exciting, hard to put down read with very original forms of magic and exciting action.
Joan Theal
Random House/Knopf/Anchor/Three Rivers 2009 243 9.95 978-0-7869-5145-1 ms/hs
Thirteen-year-old Scamp, his older brother Mather, and friend Dannika, set out to find someone who can protect the mysterious globe and tablet that Scamp found by the corpse of a dead dragon. They are chased by evil doers with magical powers. They are chased by evil doers with magical powers. Scamp always seems to be in trouble because he is an accident waiting to happen. His older brother lectures him frequently but doesn’t step in and help. Dannika has a mystical connection to her mentor Pena. The three are sent on a quest to find help protecting the tablet and egg. Along the way the egg hatches revealing a green dragon. Throughout history, green dragons have been evil, but Scamp has faith that he can train the dragon hatchling he names Pug, to be good.
As the group is attacked, and when it seems obvious that they will be killed, either magic or the courage of the trio, or a combination of these two always saves them.
An exciting, hard to put down read with very original forms of magic and exciting action.
Joan Theal
Donaldson, Joan. On Viney’s Mountain
Donaldson, Joan. On Viney’s Mountain
Holiday House 2009 231p 16.95 978-0-8234-2129-9 hs
When Englishmen buy up land and start to clear the land for a town, Viney, a talented weaver wants to find a way to stop the progress. Along the way she learns about herself and finds love. In the Tennessee Appalachian mountains, Viney, a very talented weaver, lives with her older brother and sister. As she is gathering herbs and plants for dyes, she sees a group of English gentlemen clear cutting of a section of forest. She wants to find a way to stop the coming of the town and the destruction of her beloved forest. Her sister goes to work in the town and Viney considers her a traitor. As Viney interacts with the foreigners to try to find their weakness, she meets two young men and pretends to let them court her. Along the way she discovers she has feelings for one of them. He wants to be able to buy land before making a commitment, so they head their separate ways.
This book is based on the real community of Rugby built in in the 1880’s. Several buildings survive and can be visited. Viney is a weaver and weaving terms and the process are features throughout the novel. There is an extensive glossary of both mountain terminology and English terms used to give an authentic feel to the narrative. Also included are web sites about the town of Rugby and weaving.
This book gives a good historical picture, well researched, but also includes mountain lore, weaving, and a love story.
It is an excellent read for high school students. Joan Theal
Holiday House 2009 231p 16.95 978-0-8234-2129-9 hs
When Englishmen buy up land and start to clear the land for a town, Viney, a talented weaver wants to find a way to stop the progress. Along the way she learns about herself and finds love. In the Tennessee Appalachian mountains, Viney, a very talented weaver, lives with her older brother and sister. As she is gathering herbs and plants for dyes, she sees a group of English gentlemen clear cutting of a section of forest. She wants to find a way to stop the coming of the town and the destruction of her beloved forest. Her sister goes to work in the town and Viney considers her a traitor. As Viney interacts with the foreigners to try to find their weakness, she meets two young men and pretends to let them court her. Along the way she discovers she has feelings for one of them. He wants to be able to buy land before making a commitment, so they head their separate ways.
This book is based on the real community of Rugby built in in the 1880’s. Several buildings survive and can be visited. Viney is a weaver and weaving terms and the process are features throughout the novel. There is an extensive glossary of both mountain terminology and English terms used to give an authentic feel to the narrative. Also included are web sites about the town of Rugby and weaving.
This book gives a good historical picture, well researched, but also includes mountain lore, weaving, and a love story.
It is an excellent read for high school students. Joan Theal
Uhlberg, Myron. Hands of My Father: A Hearing Boy, His Deaf Parents, and the Language of Love
Uhlberg, Myron. Hands of My Father: A Hearing Boy, His Deaf Parents, and the Language of Love
Random House/Knopf/Anchor/Three Rivers 2009 230p 23.00 978-0-553-80688-5 ms/hs
Children’s author tells the story of growing up as the hearing son of deaf parents and the trials, tribulations, and loving memories of being an emissary to the hearing world for his parents. Uhlberg tales evoke not only his life in the 1940 and 50’s, but the hearing world’s prejudices towards deaf people during that time. The expressiveness of his father’s signing as well as his love and devotion to his family and the struggle to provide for them will bring tears of sadness and joy to the reader’s eyes. Uhlberg, an award winning children’s author, tells the story of growing up as the hearing son of deaf parents. He relates the trials, tribulations, and loving memories of being an emissary to the hearing world for his deaf parents. From the age of five, Uhlberg had to be the intermediary between both worlds, a huge job for a small child. Although he is often ashamed of his parents for being deaf, it is because the hearing people exhibit extreme prejudice towards deaf people during the 1940’s and 1950’s. When Uhlberg’s younger brother becomes epileptic, his burden becomes heavier as he has to be a caretaker for him as well for a while. There are humorous parts also, like when Uhlberg has to mime the Joe Louis fight for his father that is being broadcast over the radio or interpret between his parents and his teacher on report card night. Although Uhlberg’s parents depended on him for many things, they also loved him very much and provided a good, loving and solid family life. Uhlberg’s love for his parents is evident in his writing, especially when he describes his father’s expressive signing, his curiosity about things, and is affection for his family. Readers may experience both laughter and tears as they read this memoir. This book would be an excellent addition to both middle and high school libraries. Tina Weinraub
Random House/Knopf/Anchor/Three Rivers 2009 230p 23.00 978-0-553-80688-5 ms/hs
Children’s author tells the story of growing up as the hearing son of deaf parents and the trials, tribulations, and loving memories of being an emissary to the hearing world for his parents. Uhlberg tales evoke not only his life in the 1940 and 50’s, but the hearing world’s prejudices towards deaf people during that time. The expressiveness of his father’s signing as well as his love and devotion to his family and the struggle to provide for them will bring tears of sadness and joy to the reader’s eyes. Uhlberg, an award winning children’s author, tells the story of growing up as the hearing son of deaf parents. He relates the trials, tribulations, and loving memories of being an emissary to the hearing world for his deaf parents. From the age of five, Uhlberg had to be the intermediary between both worlds, a huge job for a small child. Although he is often ashamed of his parents for being deaf, it is because the hearing people exhibit extreme prejudice towards deaf people during the 1940’s and 1950’s. When Uhlberg’s younger brother becomes epileptic, his burden becomes heavier as he has to be a caretaker for him as well for a while. There are humorous parts also, like when Uhlberg has to mime the Joe Louis fight for his father that is being broadcast over the radio or interpret between his parents and his teacher on report card night. Although Uhlberg’s parents depended on him for many things, they also loved him very much and provided a good, loving and solid family life. Uhlberg’s love for his parents is evident in his writing, especially when he describes his father’s expressive signing, his curiosity about things, and is affection for his family. Readers may experience both laughter and tears as they read this memoir. This book would be an excellent addition to both middle and high school libraries. Tina Weinraub
Lynch, Janet Nichols. Messed Up.
Lynch, Janet Nichols. Messed Up.
Holiday House 2009 256p 17.95 978-0-8234-2185-5 ms/hs
During the year 15 year old Mexican American, R. D., has to repeat 8th grade, his grandmother leaves him in the sole support of her boyfriend. When he dies, R. D. has to find the skills necessary to navigate his world on his own. When 15 year old Mexican American R. D.’s grandmother leaves to be with her new boyfriend, he stays with her old boyfriend Earl. His mother is in prison for drug dealing and his father, who was only 13 at his conception has been out of R. D.’s life since he was a baby. R. D is repeating 8th grade, gets suspended frequently, but is basically a good kid. When Earl dies suddenly, R. D. is left to live on his own and tries to keep it a secret so he won’t be sent to a foster home. He stays in the house and attempts to garner the skills necessary such as cooking, cleaning, laundry, and bill paying. He also attempts to keep Earl’s auto repair business going. R. D. is in a special class at school, endeavors to avoid Latino gang violence, and is trying to evade the advances of a tough girl who wants to be his girl at any cost. His realization that he does have the ability to succeed changes his perception on life. The characters are well developed and ring true; Lynch has a good grasp of what conditions can be for some teens. The situations that R. D. finds himself in are often at the same time humorous and sad. This title is well-written and will hold the interest of high school males (as well as some females). This would be an excellent selection for high school libraries looking for books that are of high interest to male readers. Recommended for Tristate Books of Note. Tina Weinraub
Holiday House 2009 256p 17.95 978-0-8234-2185-5 ms/hs
During the year 15 year old Mexican American, R. D., has to repeat 8th grade, his grandmother leaves him in the sole support of her boyfriend. When he dies, R. D. has to find the skills necessary to navigate his world on his own. When 15 year old Mexican American R. D.’s grandmother leaves to be with her new boyfriend, he stays with her old boyfriend Earl. His mother is in prison for drug dealing and his father, who was only 13 at his conception has been out of R. D.’s life since he was a baby. R. D is repeating 8th grade, gets suspended frequently, but is basically a good kid. When Earl dies suddenly, R. D. is left to live on his own and tries to keep it a secret so he won’t be sent to a foster home. He stays in the house and attempts to garner the skills necessary such as cooking, cleaning, laundry, and bill paying. He also attempts to keep Earl’s auto repair business going. R. D. is in a special class at school, endeavors to avoid Latino gang violence, and is trying to evade the advances of a tough girl who wants to be his girl at any cost. His realization that he does have the ability to succeed changes his perception on life. The characters are well developed and ring true; Lynch has a good grasp of what conditions can be for some teens. The situations that R. D. finds himself in are often at the same time humorous and sad. This title is well-written and will hold the interest of high school males (as well as some females). This would be an excellent selection for high school libraries looking for books that are of high interest to male readers. Recommended for Tristate Books of Note. Tina Weinraub
Jinks, Catherine. The Reformed Vampire Support Group.
Jinks, Catherine. The Reformed Vampire Support Group.
Harcourt Brace 2009 362 17.00 978-0-15-206609-3 ms/hs
Wry, humorous take on the vampire life. Fifteen year old (since 1973) Nina hates being a vampire, dislikes the other vampires in her support group and like other vampires is sickly, struggling financially, and dedicated to not inflicting this condition on any others.
When one of her own is killed, an adventure ensues that has her and her comrades rescuing a teen werewolf, fending off two evil mortal (and then not) men, and realizing that being a vampire can be okay. Jinks puts a wry, humorous take on the vampire life. In this book, the vampires are sickly, struggling financially, and dedicated to not inflicting this condition on any other people. The story is told from the perspective of Nina, a fifteen year old (since 1973) vampire who hates being a vampire. She is repulsed by having to feed on the blood of guinea pigs, loathes having to sleep in a dark space all day, and dislikes most of the members of her Reformed Vampire Support Group. The support group meets weekly under the leadership of Father Ramon, a Catholic priest, and they are committed to refrain from biting any humans. When one of their own is staked, they know they must find the slayer who now knows where they all live. The group holes up in Nina’s mother’s house since it is deemed safest place and with a silver bullet as their only clue, Nina and some of her group set out to track down the killer. Along the way, they free a captured teen werewolf who is forced to fight and kill other werewolves in a pit for the amusement of the audience. Many adventures ensue with the outcome that Nina falls in love with one of her fellow vampires. This title is humorous, gory, audacious, and suspenseful. It will be an excellent addition to middle and high school library collections of vampire genre fiction. Recommended for Tristate Books of Note. Tina Weinraub
Harcourt Brace 2009 362 17.00 978-0-15-206609-3 ms/hs
Wry, humorous take on the vampire life. Fifteen year old (since 1973) Nina hates being a vampire, dislikes the other vampires in her support group and like other vampires is sickly, struggling financially, and dedicated to not inflicting this condition on any others.
When one of her own is killed, an adventure ensues that has her and her comrades rescuing a teen werewolf, fending off two evil mortal (and then not) men, and realizing that being a vampire can be okay. Jinks puts a wry, humorous take on the vampire life. In this book, the vampires are sickly, struggling financially, and dedicated to not inflicting this condition on any other people. The story is told from the perspective of Nina, a fifteen year old (since 1973) vampire who hates being a vampire. She is repulsed by having to feed on the blood of guinea pigs, loathes having to sleep in a dark space all day, and dislikes most of the members of her Reformed Vampire Support Group. The support group meets weekly under the leadership of Father Ramon, a Catholic priest, and they are committed to refrain from biting any humans. When one of their own is staked, they know they must find the slayer who now knows where they all live. The group holes up in Nina’s mother’s house since it is deemed safest place and with a silver bullet as their only clue, Nina and some of her group set out to track down the killer. Along the way, they free a captured teen werewolf who is forced to fight and kill other werewolves in a pit for the amusement of the audience. Many adventures ensue with the outcome that Nina falls in love with one of her fellow vampires. This title is humorous, gory, audacious, and suspenseful. It will be an excellent addition to middle and high school library collections of vampire genre fiction. Recommended for Tristate Books of Note. Tina Weinraub
McMullen, Margaret. Cashay.
McMullen, Margaret. Cashay.
Houghton Mifflin/Clarion/Graphia/Kingfisher 2009 166p 15.00 978-0-547-07656-0 ms/hs
The personal thoughts and actions of 14 year old Cashay drive the plot which takes place after her younger sister is killed in the crossfire of a neighborhood gang. Cashay’s behavior reflects the anger feels after this tragedy. When she is given a mentor, their unlikely bond leads to a hopeful conclusion. The personal thoughts and actions of 14 year old Cashay, a child of an urban housing project in Chicago, drive the plot which takes place after her younger sister is killed in the crossfire of a neighborhood gang. With her mother turning to drugs after the loss of her child, Cashay is forced to fend for herself despite her own grief about her sister’s death. Cashay’s behavior reflects the anger she feels after this tragedy and when she is involved in a violent incident in the classroom, she is must see the school counselor who refers her to an after school program at the local Catholic Church, even though Cashay protests that she’s not Catholic. When matched with a mentor through the program, an unlikely bond develops between them. Allison, a high energy stockbroker, understands Cashay and provides solace to the teen. Cashay, in turn, offers Allison a chance to nurture and examine her own values. Although her neighborhood is fraught with danger, Cashay perseveres, getting a job, applying for a better school, and evading the shooter of her sister, who threatens her because she told the police. When the shooter endangers Cashay and invades her life with Allison, the plot takes a perilous turn. Cashay is such an authentic character and her voice is so strong that the reader will be totally drawn into this book. An excellent choice for middle and high school libraries, this title is recommended for Tristate Books of Note. Tina Weinraub
Houghton Mifflin/Clarion/Graphia/Kingfisher 2009 166p 15.00 978-0-547-07656-0 ms/hs
The personal thoughts and actions of 14 year old Cashay drive the plot which takes place after her younger sister is killed in the crossfire of a neighborhood gang. Cashay’s behavior reflects the anger feels after this tragedy. When she is given a mentor, their unlikely bond leads to a hopeful conclusion. The personal thoughts and actions of 14 year old Cashay, a child of an urban housing project in Chicago, drive the plot which takes place after her younger sister is killed in the crossfire of a neighborhood gang. With her mother turning to drugs after the loss of her child, Cashay is forced to fend for herself despite her own grief about her sister’s death. Cashay’s behavior reflects the anger she feels after this tragedy and when she is involved in a violent incident in the classroom, she is must see the school counselor who refers her to an after school program at the local Catholic Church, even though Cashay protests that she’s not Catholic. When matched with a mentor through the program, an unlikely bond develops between them. Allison, a high energy stockbroker, understands Cashay and provides solace to the teen. Cashay, in turn, offers Allison a chance to nurture and examine her own values. Although her neighborhood is fraught with danger, Cashay perseveres, getting a job, applying for a better school, and evading the shooter of her sister, who threatens her because she told the police. When the shooter endangers Cashay and invades her life with Allison, the plot takes a perilous turn. Cashay is such an authentic character and her voice is so strong that the reader will be totally drawn into this book. An excellent choice for middle and high school libraries, this title is recommended for Tristate Books of Note. Tina Weinraub
Higgins, Dalton. Hip Hop World.
Higgins, Dalton. Hip Hop World.
Groundwood see Douglas McIntyre 2009 144p 18.95 978-0-88899-910-8 hs
Groundwork Guide
This overview of the hip hop rap culture takes an international stance as it examines the history, effects, and social issues that the music addresses. Higgins, a writer and critic of popular media, has written an overview of the hip hop rap scene of today as it relates to the past and the future of the culture of this music. He is Canadian but takes an international stance as he examines the history, the effects, and the social issues that the music addresses. Higgins discusses where the music came from, where it is today, how it works, and where it is going. Subjects that are tackled include: racism, sexism, classism, the use of the “n” word, and drugs. The writing is not just reporting about the world of hip hop, but is a critical introduction to the music that offers opinions about this growing and controversial music. There is an immediacy to the writing that puts forward an original perspective on the music. At the end of the book, there is a Hip Hop Timeline encompassing the time between the birth of rap up to 2009. Extensive notes and an index complete this book. This title will be an excellent addition to high school libraries as it offers a unique point of view about a topic that interests many teen readers. Recommended for Books of Note. Tina Weinraub
Groundwood see Douglas McIntyre 2009 144p 18.95 978-0-88899-910-8 hs
Groundwork Guide
This overview of the hip hop rap culture takes an international stance as it examines the history, effects, and social issues that the music addresses. Higgins, a writer and critic of popular media, has written an overview of the hip hop rap scene of today as it relates to the past and the future of the culture of this music. He is Canadian but takes an international stance as he examines the history, the effects, and the social issues that the music addresses. Higgins discusses where the music came from, where it is today, how it works, and where it is going. Subjects that are tackled include: racism, sexism, classism, the use of the “n” word, and drugs. The writing is not just reporting about the world of hip hop, but is a critical introduction to the music that offers opinions about this growing and controversial music. There is an immediacy to the writing that puts forward an original perspective on the music. At the end of the book, there is a Hip Hop Timeline encompassing the time between the birth of rap up to 2009. Extensive notes and an index complete this book. This title will be an excellent addition to high school libraries as it offers a unique point of view about a topic that interests many teen readers. Recommended for Books of Note. Tina Weinraub
Combres, Elisabeth. Broken Memory: a Novel of Rwanda.
Combres, Elisabeth. Broken Memory: a Novel of Rwanda.
Groundwood see Douglas McIntyre 2009 139p 18.95 978-0-88899-892-7 ms/hs
This powerful novel, translated from French, is an account of the genocide in Rwanda personalized through fourteen year old Emma’s eyes. Ten years after she witnessed her mother’s brutal murder in their home finds Emma living with a poor, elderly, Hutu woman. Emma has been living with her ever since she escaped from her village and took refuge in her home. Though poor, the woman hid Emma when necessary and looked after her. Emma has befriended a boy her age who was also a victim of the savage war. Together they form a bond as he tells her about school and she supports him as he goes through his dark moments every April. A kind man who helps young survivors of the war eventually helps Emma learn how to let her feelings out and move on in her life. An epilogue at the end of the story updates Emma’s and other main character’s status a decade later. The author also adds a note at the end of the book that helps put this title in it’s historical context in an understandable way. This compelling, moving, and well -written novel about the war in Rwanda and its effects on the people who lived there during the genocide is an excellent selection for both middle and high school libraries. Tina Weinraub
Groundwood see Douglas McIntyre 2009 139p 18.95 978-0-88899-892-7 ms/hs
This powerful novel, translated from French, is an account of the genocide in Rwanda personalized through fourteen year old Emma’s eyes. Ten years after she witnessed her mother’s brutal murder in their home finds Emma living with a poor, elderly, Hutu woman. Emma has been living with her ever since she escaped from her village and took refuge in her home. Though poor, the woman hid Emma when necessary and looked after her. Emma has befriended a boy her age who was also a victim of the savage war. Together they form a bond as he tells her about school and she supports him as he goes through his dark moments every April. A kind man who helps young survivors of the war eventually helps Emma learn how to let her feelings out and move on in her life. An epilogue at the end of the story updates Emma’s and other main character’s status a decade later. The author also adds a note at the end of the book that helps put this title in it’s historical context in an understandable way. This compelling, moving, and well -written novel about the war in Rwanda and its effects on the people who lived there during the genocide is an excellent selection for both middle and high school libraries. Tina Weinraub
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)