Genre 6: Fiction: A Book by An Na

A Step From Heaven

1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Na, An. 2001. A Step from Heaven. Front Street. ISBN 1886910588.

2. PLOT SUMMARY
This book is the story of a young Korean girl and her family that has difficulties learning the English language and adjusting to life in America.

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Innocent and heartfelt are two words I would use to describe this book. Na does a wonderful job of allowing readers to step into the life of Young Ju, a young Korean girl excited about her family's move to "heaven". This is what she called America. It is through statements such as "dirty black water with bubbles floating", "two monies" and "color sticks inside the box" that we understand how innocent Young Ju is. Na creates a character that exudes excitement about her new land. A Step from Heaven chronicles her life from her toddler years to her teenage years. Readers are touched by Young Ju's strength through her relationship with her mean alcoholic "Apa" and burdened yet resilient "Uhmma". Her experiences with her parents and her brother makes her all the more determined. Na showcases this when Young Ju receives the ninth grade award for the highest GPA although her parents were not there because they were dealing with a situation at home. She finds consolation in her American best friend, Amanda. "At first I am not sure if they called me because the name sounds so garbled, but when Amanda gives me a nudge I stand up. Amanda and her parents clap loudly as I walk to the front to shake the principal's hand." Although a child, Young Ju represents the "strength" of a family unit. This book is very inviting and easy to read. The dialogue is natural. The chapters are short and titled. This novel keeps the reader wanting more. It showcases the difficulties many young people are faced with. You will not want to put the book down. You will fall in love with Young Ju's eagerness for a new life inspite of circumstances. A Step from Heaven will certainly draw on your emotions. It is a must read for readers of all ages.


4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
"A beautiful novel."
---------Booklist
"Astonishing and memorable."
----------The Horn Book Magazine

5. CONNECTIONS
Classroom Connections:

This book would be great to share with any student moving to America.

Have students research information about Korea.

Think about setting up buddies for students that have recently relocated from another country.

Genre 6: Fiction: A Book by Louis Sachar

Holes

1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Sachar, Louis. 1998. Holes. New York, NY: Dell Yearling. ISBN 0440419468

2. PLOT SUMMARY
This book is the story of a young boy named Stanley Yelnats who is sent to Camp Green Lake, a juvenile detention center for a crime he did not committ. At Camp Green Lake Stanley along with the other "inmates" have to dig holes. One day the holes lead him to more than he could imagine, the truth.

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Pack your bags and lets get ready for a camping trip. Well it's not your typical campstie. It is a place called Camp Green Lake, a juvenile detention facility where there is not a beautiful lake but holes to dig. Unfortunate? Yes! Well that was the life the Yelnats family was accustomed to. Bad luck was what they knew because of a deal broken by their "no-good-dirty-rotten-pig-stealing-great-great-grandfather." Sachar does an awesome job of helping the reader understand just how bad the family's luck was. He uses language that is very straightforward and easy to understand. The characters are believable. It sheds light on a special bond that developed between Stanley and Zero. " "I should warn you," Stanley said. "I'm not exactly the luckiest guy in the world." Zero wasn't worried. "When you spend your whole life living in a hole,"he said the only way you can go is up." They gave each other the thumbs-up sign , then headed out." Although the family thought they were cursed, Stanley stumbles onto something more than anyone could expect, even the cruel warden. It is a story of good versus bad. It reassures you that whenever there is a struggle between good and evil, good always wins. It is a must read for readers of all ages. It will keep you coming back for more.

4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
"Dazzling blend of social commentary, tall tale and magic realism."

-----------Publisher's Weekly

5. CONNECTIONS
Other Books by Louis Sachar
There's a Boy in the Girls' Bathroom
Dogs Don't Tell Jokes
Sideways Stories from Wayside School
Marvin Redpost Series

Genre 6: Fiction: A Book by Lois Lowry

The Giver

1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Lowry, Lois. The Giver. Dell Laurel Leaf Books, 1993. ISBN 0440237688.

2. SUMMARY
This book is the story of young boy named Jonas that is a part of a perfect world. There is no pain, no war and no choices. Every person is assigned a task in his world. When Jonas reaches the grand age of twelve he is chosen to receive a special honor from the Giver. The Giver is the only person that holds gift of life's memories, good and bad. When Jonas receives the gift he uses it to help lead a newborn to a better life.

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Lets take a trip into the future. A future without pain, fear and war. Everything is planned and organized. A world such as this would be great except to live without choices can be devastating. Lois Lowry does just this in The Giver. It is written from the point of view of a young boy named Jonas. He is a member of a futuristic society that is run the same for everyone. All sadness, fear, hatred and war has been removed. The characters in this book seem normal except they are programmed. The plot does offer events that are true to life. For example the idea of birth and death is true to life although the decision to be "released" is decided by someone else. Society has eliminated choice and at the age of twelve each citizen is "assigned" a job based on his or her abilities and interests. Jonas is bestowed the gift of memories by the Giver. It is this very gift that makes Jonas' idea of life richer and more meaningful. A richness he longs to share with others. Although Lowry creates a great picture of how life should be you are immediately saddened at the beginning when you find out that a problem child that Jonas' father has been caring for is going to be "released." It is through this situation that the story develops and you understand through Jonas' hasty actions how this young boy tries to make a difference. Jonas takes Gabriel and very little supplies on a journey, a journey to a new life. The places in which they travel are believable places. This book leaves the reader with a revelation that you have the ability to change whatever state you are in and share that change with someone else in need. "He pressed his hands into Gabriel's back and tried to remember sunshine. For a moment it seemed that nothing came to him, that his power was completely gone. Then it flickered suddenly, and he felt tiny tongues of heat begin to creep across and into his frozen feet and legs." "For a fleeting second he felt he wanted to keep it for himself, to let himself bathe in sunlight, unburdened by anything or anyone else. But the moment passed and was followed by an urge... a passionate yearning to share the warmth with the one person left for him to love. Aching for the effort, he forced the memory of warmth into the thin, shivering body in his arms." It is at this moment that the author illuminates Jonas' love for someone else. It confirms the longing in him to be a part of a world that is full of passion. Lowry's theme is made very obvious. People have an internal desire to live, love and learn through experiences. Without experiences good or bad we have not lived. This book gives readers the overall impression that there is hope regardless of circumstances. The ending, although unexpected, gives readers the opportunity to fill in their own beliefs and dreams. It gives you the chance to write your own conclusion to this story. This book is a must read.

4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
"Lowry is once again in top form.....a tale fit for the most adventurous readers."

------Publisher's Weekly, Starred

"The final flight for survival is as riveting as it is inevitable. This tightly plotted story and its believable characters will stay with its readers for a long time."

-----School Library Journal, Starred

5. CONNECTIONS

A teacher's guide to The Giver

www.randomhouse.com/teachers/guides/give.html

Series by Lois Lowry

The Anatasia Series

The Sam Krupnik Series

Books about the Tates

The Gooney Bird Books

A Few stand alone books by Lois Lowry

A Summer to Die

Find a Stranger, Say Goodbye

Stay! Keeper's Story

Number the Stars

Genre 5: Historical Fiction: A Book by Russell Freedman

Eleanor Roosevelt, A Life of Discovery

1.BIBLIOGRAPHY
Freedman, Russell. 1993. Eleanor Roosevelt, A Life of Discovery. New York, NY. Clarion Books. ISBN 0-89919-862-7.

2.PLOT SUMMARY
This book chronicles the life of one of America's most influential women, Eleanor Roosevelt. It takes us from her early ages to her renowned worldwide activism.

3.CRITICAL ANALYSIS
"If anyone were to ask me what I want out of life I would say-the opportunity for doing something useful, for in no other way, I am convinced, can true happiness be attained."
---Eleanor Roosevelt
Certainly Eleanor Roosevelt was a woman of her words. In this biography Freedman sheds light on how such a woman transcended both an unfortunate childhood with the death of her mother and her father, and a modest nature to become one of America's most outspoken, highly regarded woman in history. Freedman vividly showcased how Eleanor defied the expectations of a serious, reserved, traditional wife and mother to become a political figure in her own right. As First Lady, she went above and beyond the call of duty. Freedman vividly details just how remarkable First Lady Eleanor was. "I never wanted to be president's wife, and I don't want it now....Now I shall have to work out my own salvation." To make such a statement took a great amount of courage. It is through this statement we understand her willingness to support her husband and her country despite her own reservation. It is with that reservation that we see her at her strongest. The text is well written and easy to read. There are well over 100 photos, which allows the readers to step into the past. Chapters eight through eleven are especially revealing as it amplifies First Lady Roosevelt's selfless acts. Freedman keeps the reader engrossed and immediately provides a crossroad for connection. It is evident that Freedman has done research. Although recommended for ages nine and up, this book is a must read for readers of all ages. Women especially must read this book. It will confirm and reaffirm the determination and power that is within you.

4.REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
"A natural follow-up to Freedman's biography of FDR, this impeccably researched, highly readable study of one of this country's greatest First Ladies is nonfiction at its best."

-----Publisher's Weekly

"Grade 6-12 fans of Eleanor Roosevelt will enjoy this detailed anecdotal record of her life."

-----School Library Journal


5.CONNECTIONS
Other Books by Russell Freedman:
Teenagers Who Made History
A Photobiography
The Wright Brothers:How They Invented the Airplane
Franklin Delano Roosevelt

Genre 5: Historical Fiction: A Book by Richard Peck

A Year Down Yonder

1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Peck, Richard. 2000. A Year Down Yonder. New York, NY. Dial Books for Young Readers. ISBN 0-8037-2518-3.

2.PLOT SUMMARY
A Year Down Yonder is a story of a fifteen year old girl, named Mary Alice, whose parents experience hard times because of the Depression. After dad looses his job, then their apartment Mary Alice is forced to leave Chicago and spend a year with her grandma in a small Illinois town. This book chronicles the adventures Mary Alice share with her grandma, best known for shaking things up.

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
A Year Down Yonder is a heartfelt story of an adventurous time shared between a young girl and her grandma. This story is told from the point of view of Mary Alice, the fifteen year old main character. In the beginning Mary is hesitant to spend time with her grandma because of her overwhelming and harsh personality, but she soons realizes grandma's ultimate motive is to help those in need. On one such occasion she showcases her willingness to assist when she makes pies for a school function with pecans she takes from Old Man Nyquist and pumpkins she takes from the Pensingers. "It was slim pickings on the refreshment table..."Grandma and I began cutting up the pies..." "I was shocked at how grown-ups pushed in first..."" We fed the multitudes." Peck vividly depicts the harsh, yet gentle side of grandma during such a depressing time. The characters and historical period definitely was brought to life in this brilliant story.
While the writing styles don't yield itself to too much historical details, readers have a strong sense of what it was like to live during that time. The story ends on an emotional note, not just happily ever after between man and woman, but between granddaughter and grandma. When conditions improved and Mary had to return home she did not want to go. Grandma realizes her hesitation. "You go on home to your folks. It'll be all right. I don't lock my doors." "She knew the decision was too big a load for me to carry by myself."" She had eyes in the back of her heart." It is at this moment that grandma showcases her wisdom and confirms the special bond that had formed between them. This heartfelt story is a must read for readers of all ages.


4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
"Hilarious and Poignant."

----Publisher's Weekly

"Peck is at his best with these hilarious stories that rest solidly within the American literary tradition of Mark Twain."

-----Amazon.com

5. CONNECTIONS
Other Books by Richard Peck:
Strays Like Us
The Great Interactive Dream Machine
Lost in Cyberspace
Amanda/Miranda
A Long Way from Chicago


Classroom Connections:
Research information about the Depression
Spend time talking about grandmother and the important roles they play
Compare and contrast life in the city and the country

Genre 5: Historical Fiction: A Book by Christopher Paul Curtis

Bud, Not Buddy

1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Curtis, Christopher Paul. 1999. Bud, Not Buddy. New York. Delacorte Press. ISBN 0-285-32306-9.

2. PLOT SUMMARY
Bud,Not Buddy is the story of a young, African-American, motherless boy on the run. He is in search of the father his mother never told him about. Although he has no information about his father, he sets out an adventure with his suitcase, a set of rules and one clue about his father, a flyer of Herman E. Calloway and his famous band. In the end, Bud finds more than he was looking for.

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Christopher Paul Curtis does an excellent job of vividly describing the adventures of a ten year old, African-American boy told in his own words. He takes you on an emotional roller coaster from sadness and disappointments to laughter, relief and closure. Curtis awesomely and accurately depicts the grim conditions of the Depression in Flint, Michigan. The reader is instantly engrossed with Bud's, the main character, determination to find his father despite obstacles with only a flyer as his lead. We are able to understand and connect with Bud through his "Rules and Things for Having a Funner Life and Making a Better Liar Out of Yourself." Bud's rules illuminates the unfortunate realism of his life. I don't know many ten year olds that could wake up and create this rule: "When you wake up and don't know for sure where you're at and there's a bunch of people standing around you, it's best to pretend you're still asleep until you can figure out what's going on and what you should do." With this rule alone Curtis allows the reader to see just how much Bud had to endure on his adventure to find someone that cared. I think it was at this moment I truly began to sympathize with Bud. While most ten year olds wake up in their warm beds surrounded by loved one, Bud had to immediately think of away to adjust to his current condition and act as an adult. Curtis does an extraordinary job of making the reader feel as if we were apart of that time. The characters came to life. Although there were no illustrations, I was able to envision the characters and hear the melodic sounds of the band, and understand the suffering during that time. The spirit of the times definitely came to life. Curtis' writing style is to be commended! This book doesn't just reveal history, but it unveils the strength and determination of a young boy. This book is a must read for readers of all ages.

4.REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

"While the grim conditions of the times and the harshness of Bud's circumstances are authentically depicted, Curtis shines on them an aura of hope and optimism." "And even when he sets up a daunting scenario, he makes readers laugh---"

---Publisher's Weekly

"Grade 4-7-Motherless Bud shares his amusingly astute rules of life as he hits the road to find the musician he believes is his father. A medley of characters brings Depression-era Michigan to life."

-----Library Journal

5.CONNECTION

Recommended Book(s):

The Watsons Go to Birmingham-1963

Classroom:

This book would be a great read aloud to students in grades 4-6. It can be used to introduce the Depression. After reading this books students could have discussion and also further research information about the Depression .

It is also a great book to illuminate the power of determination. It is a great discussion starter.

Genre 4: Nonfiction: A Book by Gail Gibbons

Ice Cream: The Full Scoop

1. BIBLOGRAPHY
Gibbons, Gail. Ice Cream the Full Scoop. Holiday House, 2006. ISBN 0-08234-2000-0.

2. PLOT SUMMARY
In this book Gail Gibbons describes how ice-cream was developed from flavored ice to the creamy cool treat we know today. Gibbons describes the earliest hand-cranked ice-cream maker, the origins of the ice-cream cone and even how a modern day ice-cream factory works.

3.CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Look out Haggen-Dazs, Baskin -Robbins and Braums! Here I come! In this awesomely written book, Gibbons explains how one of America's favorite dessert was developed. It accurately follows the journey of ice-cream from China, Marco Polo the British, American colonies and finally to the grocery store shelves. The organization is outstanding. The book is organized in such a way that helps the reader easily understand the text. From the beginning of the book with the origin of ice cream to the end of the book with the "scoop" on ice-cream, you will be ready to "spring" into the nearest ice cream shop. The format makes the book reader friendly. Possible unfamiliar vocabulary is defined within the text or in captions. When reading this book readers will without a doubt understand words such as "stabilizers" and "emulsifiers." The text is simple and straightforward and the illustrations are colorful, cheerful and well defined. The design of the book is definitely appealing. It will have children of all ages wanting to read more about this wonderful treat. Labels are provided for many of the illustrations making it inviting to the reader. Graphics are placed appropriately. Gibbons does an excellent job of keeping the reader interested in the text. Although intended for ages 4-9, readers of all ages should read this book. It will definitely stir up an appreciation for how ice-cream was developed and it will have you splitting to get a "banana split."

4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
"There is a lot going on in this book, but the layout guides readers through the wealth of information. "

--School Library Journal

"In cheerful watercolors and a lucid text, Gibbons delivers the scoop on ice cream history, ingredients, innovations, and the mechanics of its small-and large scale production."

--Booklist


5.CONNECTIONS
Other books by Gail Gibbons:
Apples
The Art Box
Bats
Bicycle Book
Easter
Dogs
Horses
The Planets
Sea Turtles
Trains
Wolves

Activity Suggestion:
After reading this book, make banana splits with your class.
This could also be a great book to read before a writing assignment that focuses on non-fiction text.

Genre 4: Nonfiction: A Book by Seymour Simon

Guts: Our Digestive System

1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Simon, Seymour. Guts Our Digestive System. Harper Collins Publishers, 2005. ISBN 0-06-054651-4.

2. PLOT SUMMARY
In this book Seymour Simon explains how the digestive system works twenty-four hours a day. Guts illuminates how major organs including the stomach and intestines move food through the body.

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Do you have questions such as, why is it important to chew your food, how long does it take for food to travel through your body, do I really have twenty feet of small intestines? Well if you do then Guts by Seymour Simon is the book for you. If you've never thought much about your digestive system then you will after reading this book. This book is a straightforward, scientific, detailed look into the digestive system. Guts vividly tells us how the body digest food starting with our teeth and ending with waste. Simon presents the digestive system process in an interesting way. It keeps the readers coming back for more. It is obvious that Mr. Simon has spent time researching and verifying the content of this book. It is definitely not lacking in organization. If you have a questions about a certain step in the digestive system, you can easily access the information needed. The real life photos are very detailed and colorful. Although some pictures are graphic in nature, it does not leave the reader "wondering about anything." : )
The writing in this book is very clear. Simon certainly drives home the point "you are what eat." After reading this book you will certainly second guess what you allow to enter into your body.
This book was certainly and eyeopener and a must read by everyone!


4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
"I can't believe my body does all of that."
--James Harry, My son, 6 years old


5. CONNECTIONS
Personal:
I had my gall bladder removed several years ago and I never really investigated the job of the gall bladder or had seen pictures until now. I now understand why there was so much pain! Thank goodness it's gone.

Other Books by Seymour Simon:
The Brain: Our Nervous System
Bones: Our Skeletal System
Eyes and Ears
The Heart: Our Circulatory System
Muscles: Our Muscular System

Genre 4: Nonfiction: An Orbis Pictus Award Winning Book

An American Plague: The True and Terrifying Story of the YELLOW FEVER EPIDEMIC OF 1793

aura1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Murphy, Jim. An American Plague: The True and Terrifying Story of the Yellow Fever Epidemic of 1793, 2003. ISBN 0395776082.

2. PLOT SUMMARY
An American Plague is an account of a devastating killer known as yellow fever. This killer roamed the streets of Philadelphia in 1793 seeking whom it could devour without considering gender or age. It chronicles the medical beliefs and practices of that time. Jim Murphy illuminates the true story of a city under siege.

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Rofina Morrow, Patrick Mullen, Ann Murphy, John Newling, a lad, Widow Morrifon's child, Robert Murray's wife and child are just a few names of those stricken with Philadelphia's roaming killer known as yellow fever. Jim Murphy masterfully and vividly chronicles the devastation course of the epidemic. Murphy has obviously consulted many books, newspapers, magazines, personal journals, and letters in order to create such a vivid account of the rapidly spreading disease of 1793. The text was full of details allowing readers to deeply understand the experiences of Philadelphians during that day and time. It also shed light on the compassion shared by those that were not stricken with the illness but moved to assist, those of which included free black Philadelphians, politicians and of course medical experts both official and unofficial (barbers). An American Plague included illustrations that helped readers imagine what the sickened city was like-narrow streets and the press of people. Murphy's passion for this riveting true story of a city under siege is phenomenal. This book is a must read for readers of all ages.


4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
"Jim Murphy has once again created a masterful, impeccably researched book that both enthralls and horrifies the reader."

--Marya Jansen-Gruber, www.kidsread..com/reviews


5. CONNECTIONS
Other books by Jim Murphy:
The Great Fire
The Boys' War
Across America on an Emigrant Train
A Young Patriot
Pick & Shovel Poet

Fiction Book:
Fever 1793 by Laura Halse Anderson is great fiction book to go along with An American Plague.

Genre 3 Poetry: A Book Written by Jack Prelutsky

A Pizza the Size of the Sun

1. BIBLOGRAPHY
Prelutsky, Jack. A Pizza the Size of the Sun. Illustrated by James Stevenson. Greenwillow Books, 1996. ISBN 0-688-13235-9.

2. PLOT SUMMARY
A Pizza the Size of the Sun is a collection of poems by Jack Prelutsky. It includes titles such as Miss Misinformation , My Brother is a Doodler and many other titles that are children related.

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
This book is a collection of clever, clever, funny, funny poems. It includes, it includes titles such as I Often Repeat Repeat Myself. Although geared for kids, poems such as this will stand out especially if you are a teacher and a mother and you have repeated yourself numerous times. Prelutsky manages to find humor in topics that may not normally be funny such as procrastination (Chuck) and oddly shaped bodies (Knothead). Although the illustrations are in black and white and doesn't have a lot of details, they provide space for the imagination to run wild with laughter. Kids of all ages will surely fall in love with this collection of poems. I suggest before you blow off your handle about a topic, check to see what Prelutsky has to say about it in this hilarious collection of poems. It is a great, funny way to introduce children to new vocabulary and other reading concepts. You will absolutely love sharing this book with kids of all ages.

4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
"If a laugh is what's needed, just hand over the keys and let these two drive."
Publisher's Weekly

5. CONNECTIONS
OTHER BOOKS:
The New Kid on the Block
Something Big Has Been Here

CLASSROOM CONNECTIONS:
Great reference book!
This book would be a great humorous way to introduce poetry to your kids/students.
It would also be a great way to settle an arguement in a lighthearted and funny way.

Genre 3 Poetry: A Book Written by Nikki Grimes

Come Sunday

1.BIBLOGRAPHY
Grimes, Nikki. Come Sunday. Ill by Michael Bryant. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 1997. ISBN 0-8028-5108-8.

2. PLOT SUMMARY
This book of poetry recounts LaTasha's Sunday adventures in Paradise, that is Paradise Baptist Church. There are fourteen poems that are told from the point of view of a young African-American girl.

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Jubilation it has!"Rock-a-my-soul I clap my hands and Rock-a-my-soul my feet start dancing..." are words from one of Grimes poems entitled Jubilation in Come Sunday. Prepare to hear the glorious sounds of pipe organs, tambourines and drums as you read this lively and colorful book. Nikki Grimes brings to life the exciting Sunday morning church adventures of a little girl named LaTasha. The poems in this book are funny, full of life and serious at the same time. From the anticipated early rise to the "now I lay me down to sleep" prayer, Grimes magnificently captures a day of worship through the eyes of a little girl. The illustrations are awesome! Michael Bryant uses vibrant colors throughout the book. The pictures are bold and exciting. After reading this book you are ready for your own day of Worship. You will be humbled to see the strong connection between a child and her love for Worship. Every sense is stimulated from the "touch" of mother waking LaTasha up to the "sound" of the lady preacher. This book would be great for kids that are going to church for the first time or for those, young and old, that feel like church is not for them. LaTasha will have you running to church, literally.

4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
"Reverent, funny and wildly energetic all at the same time, this is a wonderful book for introducing children to church life. "
-Publisher's Weekly

"I like church."
" Look at the pretty pictures. "
-Jada Harry, 3 Years Old, My daughter

5. CONNECTIONS

Other Books:
Bronx Masquerade
Talkin About Bessie
Meet Danitra Brown
Danitra Brown Leaves Town
Jazmin's Notebook

Awards and Honors:

Coretta Scott King Author, ALA Notable Books, NAACP Image Awards finalist honors

Learn more about Nikki Grimes at http://www.nikkigrimes.com/

Genre 3 Poetry: Verse Novel Review

Make Lemonade

1.BIBLOGRAPHY
Wolff, Virginia Euwer. 1993. Make Lemonade. New York: Scholastic Inc. ISBN 059048141.

2. PLOT SUMMARY
This book is a story of a fourteen year old girl named La Vaughn that takes on a babysitting job for a young mother of two named Jolly. Jolly is a single mother, lacks family support, education and all of the good things life has to offer. At first La Vaughn is being paid for her services, but after Jolly looses her job La Vaughn eventually has to become a dedicated volunteer. During this time a special bond is formed and La Vaughn uses her love and support to encourage Jolly to make lemonade out of lemons.

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Pull out the kleenex! Wolff does an excellent job of sensing the emotions of readers in this open verse novel. This book highlights the life of the truly disadvantaged in America today. Once you begin reading you no longer feel like it is someone you don't know, you connect to the characters. Wolff does an excellent job of making the characters come to life. Wolff's creative use of words draw you into the characters without focusing on race. If you ever had an opinion about the poor, young mothers and the uneducated, this is the book to read to remove the blindfolds from your eyes. You are immediately drawn into the struggles of LaVaughn and Jolly and yet mesmerized by their will to overcome despite circumstances. The book is written in first person and has multiple short chapters that makes it easy to read. It keeps you coming back for more. Although a heartbreaking reality, it conveys a message of hope. Make Lemonade conveys a message of triumph. It reminds you that you can make lemonade out of "any" situation. This heartfelt young adult literature is geared for ages thirteen and up. I must warn you get your kleenex first.

4.REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
"Radiant with hope, this keenly observed and poignant novel is a stellar addition to YA literature."

-Publisher's Weekly

5.CONNECTIONS
Other Books by Virginia Euwer Wolff:
Bat Six
Probably A Still Nick Swanson
The Mozart Season
True Believer

Genre 2 Traditional Literature: A Book Written by Alvin Schwartz

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

1. BIBLOGRAPHY
Schwartz, Alvin. And the Green Grass Grew All Around Folk Poetry From Everyone. Ill. by Susan Truesdell. HarperCollins Publishers, 1992. ISBN 0-06-022757-5.

2. PLOT SUMMARY
This book is a collection of over 250 folk poems from everyday life. It is Schwartz's personal record of folk poetry. This book focuses on fifteen different topics. It is in this book where Schwartz highlights the language of ordinary people.

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Sassy, funny, scary and slightly naughty are just a few words to describe And the Green Grass Grew All Around. From rhymes and parodies to riddles and poems, this heartwarming book offers the entire family an opportunity to chant, sing and share their favorite folk poetry. Truesdell offers dramatic, energetic drawings with a sense of humor. Although the drawings may be in black and white it does not lack in humor. The characters tumble and guffaw across the pages. The watercolor illustrations will make you fall out of your seat with laughter. And the Green Grass Grew All Around sheds a funny spotlight on even one of the least talked about topics, an ant. "The ants go marching one by one..and the last one stops to have some fun" is just one example of the amazing humor that is found in this book. Schwartz celebrates the vitality and humor of everyday language. This wonderful book should be read by children of all ages. As soon as I read this book I couldn't help but think of my childhood. Also, if you are looking for just the right poem to write to the one you love I highly recommend this one, "Roses red, violets blue, Sugar is sweet but not like you. The violets fade, the roses fall, But you get sweeter all in all." (pg 53) You and the one you love will surely fall in "laughter".

4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

"Not since Carl Wither's "A Rocket in My Pocket" (1948) has there been such a grand compilation... "

Kirkus Reviews

"This is a funny book, lets read more."

James Harry, 6 Years Old, My son

5. CONNECTIONS

Other Books by Alvin Schwartz: Chin Music:Tall Talk and Other Talk, Cross Your Finger, Spit in Your Hat: Superstitions and Other Beliefs, Flapdoodle: Pure Nonsense from American Folklore, Witcracks:Jokes and Jests from American Folklore.

Genre 2 Traditional Literature: Cinderella Review

Bubba the Cowboy Prince

1. BIBLOGRAPY
Ketteman, Helen. 1997. BUBBA THE COWBOY PRINCE. Ill by James Warhola. New York: Scholastic. ISBN 0-590-25506-1.

2. PLOT SUMMARY
Cowboy Bubba is bossed around the family ranch by his cruel stepdaddy and his downright mean stepbrothers. He never says a word. One day Miz Lurleen , a prettiest little rancher in Texas, throws a ball to meet her a feller. Bubba has to stay home. But with the help of his fairy godcow and a little southern magic Lurleen finds the prince she's always dreamed of.

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
"Once a strapping young feller named Bubba lived on a ranch..." is the start of this funny southern twist on the Cinderella fairytale. The illustrations are colorful, delightful and fun to look at. Warhola, the illustrator, tends to shine a big spotlight on how things are done big in Texas. This is evident by the "big as the yellow sun" hairdo worn by Miz Lurleen. The Texas draw adds an extra sense of humor to this story. The text is easy to read and will keep you laughing. Even if you are not a Texan you will be "downright" floored by statements such as "strapping young feller" and "purtiest and richest gal." Ketteman and Warhola combined creative use of hyperbole gives this story an extra punch. It'll keep the readers coming back for more and more. Although geared for ages 5-8, this book is a must read for the entire family. It will really "rope" you in!

4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
"Rustler lingo and illustrations chockablock with Texas kitsch make this ranch-spun Cinder-fella a knee-slappin' tale."
Publisher's Weekly
"A Cinderella parody features the off-the-wall, whang-dang Texas hyperbole of Ketteman..."
Kirkus Reviews

5.CONNECTIONS
Possible Classroom Lessons:
1. Read aloud another version of Cinderella and have students to compare and contrast the two books.
2. Have students to role play this book.
3. Great lesson on adjectives. After reading this book have students to list all of the adjectives.
4. Introduce lesson on hyperbole.
5. Have students to write their own version of Cinderella.

Story in Action:
Theatre Palisades Youth Program will present 7 performances of Bubba the Cowboy Prince. For more information contact varelac@aol.com.

Genre 2 Traditional Literature: A Book Written by Paul Goble

Dream Wolf

1. BIBLOGRAPHY
Goble, Paul. 1997. DREAM WOLF. Aladdin Picture Books. ISBN 0689815069.

2. PLOT SUMMARY
In this Plains Indian tale, a young boy named Tiblo and his little sister Tanski get lost in the hills while picking berries. Night falls and the two kids find refuge in a cave. While asleep Tiblo dreams that a wolf is watching over them and keeping them warm. When the two awake, he realizes it wasn't a dream at all. The wolf guides the two children back home. For this great act of kindness the wolf is showered with honor and gifts and the beginning of a special kinship with the wolf and the wolf people is formed.

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
This Indian tale is a great revision of The Friendly Wolf (Bradbury, 1974). Goble shares the tale of the beauty and wonderment of a relationship between man and animal. The lives and legend of this Indian tribe has been magnificently captured in Goble's illustrations. Goble's depiction of a "good wolf" offers a contrast to the idea that a wolf's main mission is to roam where few men dare, then to conquer and destroy. The wolf in this story is far less terrifying. In this heartfelt story readers have the opportunity to see and feel the special kinship between a village of people and a wolf. The text in this story keeps the reader engaged. This tale celebrates the American Plain Indian people and illuminates the beauty of the relationship between man and nature. It is very easy to read and kids of all ages would enjoy reading this Indian tale. This story will definitely stir up a desire to learn more about the Indian culture.

4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
"Straightforward, rich emotions.... magnificent picture book."
Publisher's Weekly

5.CONNECTIONS
A Few Books Written by Paul Goble:
Red Hawk's Account of Custer's Last Battle 1969
Her Seven Brothers 1988
I Sing for the Animals 1991
Love Flute 1992
Mystic Horse 2003
All Our Relatives: Traditional Native American Thoughts about Nature, World Wisdom 2005

Related Activities:
After reading this selection have students to list animals that are helpful.
(guide dogs, horses)
Compare and contrast the wolf to other animals.
Explore different cultures.

Genre 1 Picture Books: A Caldecott Awarded Book

The Three Pigs

1. Biblography
Wiesner, David. The Three Pigs. ill. by Wiesner, David. Clarion Books, 2001. ISBN 0-618-00701-6.

2. Summary
The Three Pigs is the traditional story of the three little pigs. It includes the houses, the wolf and all of the huffing and puffing but there is a twist. The pigs adventure goes from traditional to surreal leading them completely out of this world or shall we say out of this story.

3. Critical Analysis
"Once upon a time there were three pigs" is how this classic tale begins. The illustrations that Wiesner begins with are similar to that of the traditional pig story but this story is anything but traditional. While the wolf tries to huff and puff the pigs' houses down one pig takes a flight right out of the story. The wolf is of course puzzled but continues with his mission, to fill up with pork. If the wolf thought he was puzzled then of course he did not believe what was is in store for him. The pigs set off on adventure right out of this story. Although a bit confusing at first, Wiesner illustrations leads you on a journey out of this world. His three dimensional illustrations are brilliant.

The three little pigs explore different stories by using the pages of the story as their means of transportation. Their adventure leads them to other stories and then into a story where they become heroes by saving a dragon's life. Finally, they venture back into their own story and
find safety from the wolf thanks to their new found friend, the dragon. Wiesner amazes readers with his bold and colorful illustrations. His illustrations evokes an out of this world experience. The twist and out of this story/world experience makes this book a must read for all ages.

4. Review Excerpt(s)
Publisher's Weekly gives this book a starred review. "Even the book's younger readers will understand the distinctive visual code."

5. Connections
Other books written and illustrated by David Wiesner
Tuesday
Free Fall
Sector 7
June 29, 1999
Hurricane

Genre 1 Picture Books: Creation of Children's Book

A Caldecott Celebration: Six Artists and Their Paths to the Caldecott Medal

1. Biblography
Marcus, Leonard S. A Caldecott Celebration: Six Artists and Their Paths to the Caldecott Medal. Walker and Company, 1998. ISBN 0-8027-8656-1.

2. Summary
Leonard Marcus sheds light on six acclaimed winners of the most prestigious illustration award. In this book you find out how your favorite books were imagined and created.

3. Critical Analysis
Golden Globe, Guild Awards and Emmys are just a few prestigious awards awarded for a job well done in acting. Artists, like everyone, appreciates being commended for their accomplishments. The Randolph Caldecott Medal has served as a way of recognizing artist for the most distinguished picture book for children published in America. In A Caldecott Celebration Marcus profiles six books that have showcased outstanding work by an artist. The books span six decades of the medal's history. It ranges from the 1940's to the 1990's. The following books were profiled: Make Way for Ducklings by Robert McCloskey, 1942, Cinderella; or, The Little Glass Slipper by Marcia Brown, 1955, Where the Wild Things Are, by Maurice Senda, 1964, Sylvester and the Magic Pebble by William Steig 1970, Jumanji by Chris Van Allsburg, 1982, and Tuesday by David Wiesner, 1992. Each book highlighted includes information about the illustrator, publisher and medium. A Caldecott Celebration illuminates the creative process of artist. This book is a must have of adults and children alike who have been touched by the creativity of an artist.

4. Review Excerpt
Publisher's Weekly gives this book a starred review. "Filled with witty anecdotes and pithy observations, Marcus's approach to examining the works of six Caldecott Medalists will be of as much interest to adults as to picture book readers. "

5. Connection
Related Websites:
www.walkeryoungreaders.com/
www.bookpage.com/9901bp/childrens/caldecott_celebration.html

Genre 1 Picture Books: A book illustrated by Chris Raschka

The Hello, Goodbye Window

1. Biblography
Juster, Norton. The Hello, Goodbye Window. Ill. by Raschka, Chris. Michael Di Capua Books, 2005. ISBN 0-7868-0914-0.

2. Summary
The Hello, Goodbye Window tells the story of a little girl that visits her Nanna and Poppy's house while centered around the kitchen window. The kitchen window provides a magical opportunity to say hello and goodbye. Told in the little girl's voice, she brings to life the wonderful and vivid experiences she encounters at her grandparents' house.

3. Critical Analysis
Vivid, magical, imaginative and energetic are just a few words to describe this story. Children of all ages can connect to this wonderful book. This story shows the connection between a granddaughter and her grandparents while centered around a magical gateway, the kitchen window. The paintbox illustrations are very colorful. The pictures allows you to use your own imagination and connect it to your life. The colors have been carefully selected to keep the reader engaged. Your imagination can run wild while reading this book because of the vibrant pictures. The illustrations that depicts breakfast being prepared and served includes details like Poppy holding a measuring cup, utensils, flower pots, the table with a warm bowl of oatmeal, allows you to sense the excitement Poppy has about making breakfast and shared moment. This story is a colorful tale of a relationship between grandparents and a grandchild. It is a must read.

4. Review Excerpt(s)
Publisher's Weekly gives this book a starred review. "Raschka warms the pages with glowing yellow, emerald, sapphire and golden brown, and he pictures the garden and trees in emphatic midsummer greens."
Common Sense Media gives this book five stars. "Warm drawings and text make this a must-have book."

5. Connections
Personal Connection
.. and the tears began to roll.. This book is so personal to me. I recently lost my grandmother and how the memories began to cloud my mind. My grandmother and I shared a special bond. I can remember the stories and the songs we shared while she cooked her wonderful meals. Oh, what a sweet aroma. This is why I am especially fond of the part when Poppy is in the kitchen cooking. I can vividly remember where everything was placed including the "glass jars." Raschka does an awesome job of illustrating the girl's feeling of peace and comfort during nap time. Looking at the picture was like looking at myself at grandma's house. Feeling what words can't describe, safety, comfort and above all, love. This book is an awesome family book that shows the genuine love between grandparents and a grandchild.
Other Books illustrated by Chris Raschka
Granny Torrelli Makes Soup
Five for a Little One
Happy to be Nappy
Skin Again
Fishing in the Air
Possible Activities
Spend time with your kids and talk about the illustrations. Have your child select which illustration they liked the best and why.
Read this book to your child if you are leaving them with their grandparents for the first time.

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