Shannon and Dean Hale's Rapunzel's Revenge

1.      BIBLIOGRAPHY
Hale, Dean. Hale, Shannon. 2008. Rapunzel’s Revenge. Ill by Nathan Hale. New York. Bloomsbury. ISBN 9781599900704

2.    PLOT SUMMARY
Authors Shannon and Dean Hale have written a graphic novel based on the old fairytale Rapunzel, in this version there is a twist, Rapunzel is a crime-fighting heroine, and the story is set in western times, it is full of cowboys and the great frontier is in the front and center. The story begins in similar fashion as the original, Rapunzel is taken from her parents as a retribution for her parents’ stealing vegetables from Gothel, the witch’s garden. As the story unfolds, Rapunzel finds out that Gothel is not her real mother, she meets her biological mother and becomes angry with Gothel, so she rebels and denounces Gothel’s love. Gothel banishes Rapunzel to a tree tower in the middle of an isolated swamp, in which food grows inside the tree for her and her hair grows extremely long, and she is able to use it as a rope and escape from her prison tower.

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
This graphic novel has it all, a protagonist who is a heroine, the antagonist an evil witch, a plot twist, magic and mythical creatures; it is also rich in characters, and dialogue. The tale of Rapunzel who manages to against all odds fight for her happy ending is told in an action packed graphic novel. The graphics illustrated by Nathan Hale are well-done, clean cut and appropriate for each comic strip, the pictures correlate with the text written. The authors wrote and developed this story in a cohesive manner, they introduced Rapunzel and her back story, so when she turns into the western heroine it is a smooth transition, and her journey to rescue her mother and find her happily ever after!

4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
Booklist starred review: “Rich with humor and excitement, this is an alternate version of a classic that will become a fast favorite of young readers.”

School Library Journal starred review: “The dialogue is witty, the story is an enticing departure from the original, and the illustrations are magically fun and expressive.”

5. CONNECTIONS
*Children may enjoy exploring some other graphic novels.

*Look for these other fantasy graphic novels:

Hale, Dean. Hale, Shannon. Calamity Jack. ISBN 9781599903736

Hale, Shannon. Princess Academy: Palace of Stone. ISBN 9781619632578

Shaun Tan's Lost and Found

1.      BIBLIOGRAPHY
Tan, Shaun. 2011. Lost and Found. Singapore. ISBN 9780545229241

2.    PLOT SUMMARY
Shaun Tan has put together three picture books, and formed them into an experimental compilation that is loosely connected through a theme that is about how one loves and find what is important to someone, and finding your place in the world. The three separate stories are, “The Red Tree” -where a girl finds a bright spot in a dark world, “The Lost Thing”-in which a boy leads a strange, lost creature home, and “The Rabbits” –where a group of peaceful creatures cedes their home to hostile invaders.

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Tan is a simplistic writer, but a skilled draftsmanship, his drawings help boost his writing, and at times the images are the ones telling the story. The non-traditional graphic novel captures the essence of the central message to living in a world that one might not fit into, and just going with the motions of life, yet feeling unattached. The tone throughout the stories is dark, sullen, yet hopeful; this story will capture the attention of readers.

4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
Good Reads starred review: “Shaun Tan, with his understated voice and brilliant draftsmanship, has proved that he has a unique imaginative window to our souls, and an unparalled ability to share that opening with pictures and narratives that are as unexpected as they are deeply true.

The Hub starred review: “Shaun Tan knows alienation. Readers familiar with The Arrival that his work differs from the traditional graphic novel. Tan’s images are so powerful; they speak volumes on their own.”

5. CONNECTIONS
*Children may enjoy exploring some other graphic novels by Shaun Tan.

*Look for these other graphic novels:
Tan, Shaun. The Rabbits. ISBN 9780734411365

Tan, Shaun. Lost Thing. ISBN 9780734411389

Cynthia Lord's Rules

1.      BIBLIOGRAPHY
Lord, Cynthia. 2006. Rules. New York. ISBN 97880439443821

2.    PLOT SUMMARY
Writer Cynthia Lord’s debut novel Rules stars a protagonist, a twelve year old girl named Catherine, who is dealing with her autistic brother’s David’s quirks, while being a pre-teen trying to find her place in the world; her brother’s different actions sometimes embarrass her. She longs for a “normal” brother, one who knows how to behave properly and not embarrass her, she feels people judge her, her family and David, and that is why they don’t get invited to parties and events. Catherine matures and learns to appreciate her brother’s unique sense of being.

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Lord’s novel is a heartwarming narrative told in the protagonist’s Catherine’s point of view, she recounts her experiences alongside her brother David, who is autistic, and what is like growing up with a brother like him. Sometimes she does experience sibling jealously, and is not content with always being placed second to her brother, but begrudgingly understands why her parents do so Being a pre-teen she handles her brother’s uniqueness in stride, yet sometimes she struggles with other’s judging or unapproving looks, and wishes her brother was normal, but through her day to day experiences with her brother, she learns to accept him for who he is her brother who is just being the best version of himself. Her love for her brother triumphs over her being embarrassed by certain things he does!

4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
Newbery Honor Book

Good reads starred review: “A heartfelt and witty debut about feeling different and finding acceptance—beyond the rules.

CommonSense Media starred review: “The main character wrestles with how to deal lovingly with her autistic brother and how to be a friend to a mute paraplegic boy.

5. CONNECTIONS
*Children may enjoy exploring some other fantasy novels written by Cynthia Lord:
*Look for these other fantasy and wonderful stories:
Lord, Cynthia. A Handful of Stars. ISBN 9780545700276

Lord, Cynthia. Touch Blue. ISBN 9780545035323

Neil Gaiman's The Graveyard Book

1.      BIBLIOGRAPHY
Gaiman, Neil. 2008. The Graveyard Book. New York. ISBN 978-0-06-053092-1

2.    PLOT SUMMARY
Neil Gaiman’s “The Graveyard Book,” is a fantasy novel, whose protagonist is the orphan Nobody “Bod” Owens who is raised ghosts after his family was killed by an evil man Jack. Bod was a small baby when he wandered out of his house in the middle of the night, unbeknownst to him that he had escaped death. Bod is taken in by the Owens’s, a ghost couple that never had a child when they were alive, so they became Bod’s adoptive parents, Silas the caretaker is named his guardian, who looks after him up until he turns of age and is old enough to take care of himself. In the graveyard Bod lives a different life from those of his peers, but it is a peaceful life, he is raised by all the supernatural occupants. The graveyard is the only home he knows, as he gets older he longs to be in company of other humans, but Silas reiterates to him that his parents’ murderer is still out there in the world and it is still not safe for him to leave the graveyard. His life journey in the graveyard was just the beginning of Nobody Owens life, and once Jack is taken care of, he is able to leave his home, those who raised him and go in search of a new “normal” life!

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
English author Neil Gaiman is prolific, he began writing graphic novels and then wrote fiction novels full of fantasy, suspense and magic. Gaiman has a profound writing style, in “The Graveyard Book” he tells a story about a young boy, Nobody Owens, whose family is murdered, and he is taken in by supernatural forces in the graveyard, raised by ghosts and protected from those who wish to harm him. Bod’s life journey is full of suspense, mystery, veiled by death and encompassed by the ghosts who take care of him. This story is brilliantly told in the three-hundred and seven pages, eight chapters that are two years apart in chronological order. Gaiman did a splendid job bringing this story of the dead, back to life!

4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
John Newbery Medal

Kirkus starred review: “Wistful, witty, wise— and creepy. This needs to be read by anyone who is or has ever been a child.”

Good Reads starred review: “Beloved master storyteller Neil Gaiman returns with a luminous new novel for the audience that embraced his New York Times bestselling modern classic Coraline. Magical, terrifying, and filled with breathtaking adventures, The Graveyard Book is sure to enthrall readers of all ages.”

5. CONNECTIONS
*Children may enjoy exploring some other fantasy novels written by Neil Gaiman.
*Neil Gaiman’s story is filled with dialogue and has been turned into a play and will be turned into a film.
*Look for these other fantasy and wonderful stories:
Gaiman, Neil. Coraline. ISBN 9780380807345

Gaiman, Neil. Stardust. ISBN 9780380804559

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Gantos, Jack. 2011. Dead End In Norvelt. New York. D&M Publishers. ISBN 9780374379933

2. PLOT SUMMARY
American author Jack Gantos has written an autobiographical novel, whose protagonist is a young boy named Jack Gantos, and is set in Norvelt, Pennsylvania. During a summer Jack who had planned an exciting vacation is grounded for firing his father’s Japanese World War II sniper rifle, and then ensues his punishment and is sent to help his elderly neighbor Miss Volker, who writes the obituaries for the town. Then begins a string of incidents and increase in deaths in the town. The theme of the novel is that of politics, that people use power to control others, and it offers a narrative into American Life in the hometown of Gantos.

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
this is an important story, with strong community values, important American values and a strong bond of community. It is partly based on the childhood of author Jack Santos and those childhood recollections being brought to life in this autobiographical novel.

4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

Newbery Medal

The New York Times starred review:

“Jack Gantos has a way with boys or good memory of being one.”

Dave Berry starred review: “A Brilliant Book.”

5. CONNECTIONS

This book should prompt a discussion of what the American values consist of and do a comparison of the past to present set values.

Other books with a similar theme:

Yelchin, Eugene. Breaking Stalin’s Nose. ISBN 9780805092165

Vanderpool, Clare. Moon Over Manifest. ISBN 9780385907507

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Curtis, Christopher P. 2007. Elijah of Buxton. New York. Scholastic Press. ISBN 9780439023443
2. PLOT SUMMARY
This historical novel written by Newbery Medal Winner author Christopher Paul Curtis is set in Buxton, Canada, which borders Detroit, centers around Elijah an eleven year old African American boy who is born into freedom and is a child of runaway slaves. This story depicts and delves into the dark side of history, in the 1860s slavery. Elijah whom lives with his family in a settlement of runaway slaves, narrates the story. The juxtaposition explored in this lengthy historical novel is explored through the protagonist Eli who has been born into freedom with those who escaped and risked their lives for freedom. Within this engaging story the ultimate theme is overcoming adversity, being a community, and how people can come together for the greater good of the world.

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
this is an important story told with a lot of dialogue, narrated by the protagonist Elijah in the dialect of the African American slaves during that time period. Elijah grows up in a quiet, peaceful life, he attends school and knows how to read. The plot of the story develops and the climax is in the halfway point of the novel. Elijah’s reality is shaken when he encounters and is shocked by his first glimpse into slavery in the United States, and is horrified by the injustices and atrocities of slavery.

4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
Newbery Honor Book

Coretta Scott King Award Winner

Goodreads starred review: “Newbery Medalist and CSK Award Winner Christopher Paul Curtis’s debut middle-grade/YA Novel for Scholastic features his trademark humor, compelling storytelling, and unique narrative voice.”

5. CONNECTIONS

This book should bring awareness to history and slavery, should prompt a discussion on civil rights.

Other similar books:

Engle, Margarita. The Surrender Tree: Poems of Cuba’s Struggle for Freedom. ISBN 9780805086744

Hoose, Philip M. Claudette Colvin: Twice Toward Justice. ISBN 9780374313227

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Kelly, Jacqueline. 2009. The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate. New York. Henry Holt and Company. ISBN9780805088410
2. PLOT SUMMARY
Jacqueline Kelly has authored a descriptive and interesting story set in the American Frontier in 1899, in Fentress, Texas. The protagonist is a young twelve year old girl, “a naturalist” Calpurnia Virginia Tate, Callie Vee for short. Her traditional upbringing is molded by her family’s tradition. Callie is expected to conform to the role society has for her, but her grandfather Captain Tate encourages her scientific curiosity, which builds up her interest in science and nature and fuels her aspiration to break out of the traditional role in society.

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
This novel begins every chapter with a scientific tidbit, which provides a scientific uniformity throughout the twenty seven chapters. The story is set in the American Frontier from the year 1899-1900, the story is a time lapse of one year. There is a lengthy description of scientific terms and references, all told through the narration of the young protagonist Calpurnia Tate.

4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

Newbery Honor Book

School Library Journal Starred review:

“Growing up with six brothers in rural Texas in 1899, 12 year old Callie realizes that her aversion to housework and costumes disappoints her mother. Still, she prefers to spend her time exploring…”

5. CONNECTIONS

This book should prompt the role and importance of scientific research.

Other books that include scientific discoveries:

Philbrick, Rodman. The Mostly Ture Adventures of Homer P. Figg. ISBN 9780439668187

Matilda Bone

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Cushman, Karen. 2000. Maltilda Bone. New York. Dell Yearling Books. ISBN 9780329272456
2. PLOT SUMMARY
Author Karen Cushman has written an interesting and intricate historical fiction novel, that is set in medieval times, set in an English Village, the protagonist is a young fourteen year old girl named Matilda, who became an orphan and became a pupil to Father Leufreudus who was a priest, he taught her religion and Latin. Then Maltilda’s life is changed forever when she is sent to be an apprentice to a Bonesetter in Blood and Bone Alley, there she encounter her mistress, Peg who practices bone setting and helps aid those with broken bones and ailments, using medieval medicine. In her new surroundings, Matilda encounters many people, like Margery who at first doesn’t seem like much, turns out to be Doctor Margery who practices medieval medicine and proves to be more effective that the studied Master Theobald the physician and Wonderworker. Matilda learns through her life journey that not always is everyone what they seem, and that medieval medicine mostly helps those in need and less fortunate.

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
This is an extraordinary story told in English, but is infused with Latin phrases that provides that genuine link to the past centuries in which the story is set in. The inclusion of Latin words and phrases may prove to be a bit challenging for young readers. This story is filled with intriguing twists and turns, and is told in smooth transition throughout its seventeen chapters. The incorporation of all the medieval medicine techniques, potions, herbs, and beliefs makes the story more intriguing because it sheds light on how much the medicine world has changed, it offers a glimpse into how it all started. The addition of the author’s note is very insightful and informative and provides the reader with the knowledge of how much in depth research was done.
4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
Goodreads starred review:

“Newbery medalist Karen Cushman assembles a cast of unforgettable characters in a fascinating and pungent setting; the medical quarter of a medieval English village.”

5. CONNECTIONS

This book can be used to prompt a compare and contrast discussion of medieval medicine to modern medicine.

Other books that deal with the same theme:

Riesman, David. The Story of Medicine in the middle Ages. ASIN B0006EM3R8
Barnhouse, Rebecca. The Book of the Maidservant. ISBN 9780375958564

Tanya Lee Stone's "Almost Astronauts 13 Women Who Dared to Dream" Book review

1. BIBLIOGRAPHY

Stone, Tanya Lee. 2009. Almost Astronauts 13 Women Who Dared to Dream. Tanton, MA. Candlewick Press. ISBN 978-0-329-70080-5

2.  PLOT SUMMARY

Author Tanya Lee Stone tells the true story of thirteen extraordinary women who had a dream and became “space-age pioneers” these women challenged social norms during a time period where women were bound to certain roles deemed standard for women. These courageous women had a quest to live their dreams just like any man, and fought for them, during the rush to launch into space when all countries were competing in the space race, women were competing for just the mere chance to be astronauts. During this time, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration was created in the USA in 1958.

3.CRITICAL ANALYSIS

This book tells the story about the thirteen women who “blazed a trail for generations of women to follow.” Almost Astronauts is a book about thirteen women who had a dream to go to space, in a time period (the 1960s) were male prejudice created a complex political tug of war that prevented these women to achieve their dream. Author Tanya Lee Stone tells a dramatic nonfiction story of women who met all of NASA’s qualifications just like their male counterparts, yet were unable and barred from entering the NASA program simply because of their gender and society norms. 

4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

Goodreads starred review: “But even though the Mercury 13 women did not make it into space, they did not lose, for their example empowered young women to take their place in the sky, piloting jets and commanding space capsules. ALMOST ASTRONAUTS is the story of thirteen true pioneers of the space age.”

 

5. CONNECTIONS

*This book can be recommended to students who aspire to be astronauts, whether they be female or male.

*Other books with similar theme:

Floca, Brian. Moonshot: The Flight of Apollo 11. ISBN 9781416950462

Nelson, Kadir. We are the Ship: The Story of Negro League Baseball. ISBN 9780786808328

Jan Greenberg's "Chuck Close Up Close" Book review

1. BIBLIOGRAPHY

Greenberg, Jan. Jodan, Sandra. 1998. Chuck Close Up Close. New York. Dorling Kindersley Publishing. ISBN 03292121-5

2.  PLOT SUMMARY

American painter and artist Charles Thomas “Chuck” Close achieved recognition and fame through his massive scale portraits, “big heads.”

In the book “Chuck Close Up Close” authors Jan Greenberg and Sandra Jordan capture his essence as an artist. In this informative biography, facts about the artist’s background, life and art are told in an ingenious manner. Close’s rise as a world renowned artist is skillfully told in five chapters. 

3.      CRITICAL ANALYSIS

This book consists of five chapters, forty-eight pages, a glossary, a section that defines what a portrait is, and provides a list of figures. Each chapter describes an important element of how Chuck Close came to be; how he became an artist, how he developed his craft to be, how his talent snuck up on him, and the event that stopped him in his tracks for only a moment, and how he persevered and with hard work and dedication he continues his passion of painting.

4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

The New York Times: “An inspiring biography…a simply written yet fascinating account of how nearly insurmountable obstacles can often spur artistic growth.”

School Library Journal: “Based on interviews this is an inspiring look at the contemporary artist…”

 

5. CONNECTIONS

*Invite students to research their favorite artists and plan a virtual tour of a museum that displays those artists!

*Other books that are biographical depictions of artists:

Greensberg, Jan. Vincent Van Gogh: Portrait of an Artist. ISBN 978-0440419174

Kelley, True. Who Was Pablo Picasso? ISBN 978-044844986

Sy Montgomery's "The Tarantula Scientist" Book review

1. BIBLIOGRAPHY

Montgomery, Sy. 2004. The Tarantula Scientist. Boston. Houghton Mifflin Company. ISBN 0-618-14799-3

2.  PLOT SUMMARY

Most people think tarantulas are dangerous and venomous creatures. In this extremely visual and informative book, The Tarantula Scientist, author Sy Montgomery, reveals the true nature of tarantulas, and provides a closer look at these magnificent arachnids in a fun and innovative manner.

The tarantulas dazzle in the photographs taken by award-winning photographer Nic Bishop, who accompanied Scientist and arachnologist, Sam Marshall on an expedition to the French Guiana Rainforest in South America. Author Sy Montgomery, photographer Nic Bishop, and scientist Sam Marshall, “…surprise and delight readers not only with secrets of the giant spiders, but also with fascinating discoveries about the nature of science itself,” making this book informative and intriguing.

3.CRITICAL ANALYSIS

This book consists of eighty pages of informative text on tarantulas, where they came from, explains their origins, describes their habitats, environments, natural instincts and attributes, and explains what makes them unique, in a world full of different creatures. The Tarantula Scientist, is Sam Marshall, who is an arachnologist, whose life background helps establish how he became a scientist and how following his passion made him the scientist he is today. Tarantulas are one of a kind creatures, and in the book the special feature is the Goliath Bird eater Tarantula. This book will make the reader feel as if they are exploring the rainforest looking for tarantulas alongside with the team!

4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

The Robert F. Sibert Honor Book

The Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books starred review: “…This would liven up a science curriculum no end, it might also convince young readers to go beyond the elemental pleasures of ‘Ew, gross’ to the more sophisticated appreciation of ‘Wow, cool.”

The Monadnock Ledger starred review: “…The Tarantula Scientist offers an up-close look at creatures most of us know little about, and convinces us to care about them. The book is beautiful, and tarantulas who creep around each page make it fun

 

5. CONNECTIONS

*This book makes students aware of the importance to immerse themselves in what they love and discusses the importance of respecting wild creatures, especially arachnids. There are classroom activities for “The Tarantula Scientist” at https://www.houghtonmifflinbooks.com/librarian/teachers.shtml

*Other nonfiction books about exploring wildlife creatures:

Montgomery, Sy. The Snake Scientist. ISBN 978-0547576985

Turner, Pamela S. The Frog Scientist. ISBN 978-0547576985

Allen Say's "Drawing From Memory" Book review

1.      BIBLIOGRAPHY

Say, Allen. 2011. Drawing From Memory. New York. Scholastic Press. ISBN 978-0-545-17686-6

2.  PLOT SUMMARY

Allen Say brings to life his own journey, and how he became a renowned artist in this nonfiction book, Drawing From Memory. Author Allen Say recounts his life as a child growing up in Japan, and his life as a teenager and adult, he provides beautiful recollections of those who influence him and who helped shape him into the artist he is now.

Say’s life story of perseverance and devotion to his craft serves as an inspiration to other artists or aspiring artists! In the book, he vividly details were he came from, the Seashore of Yokohoma, Japan. He writes about his childhood, upbringing, his father’s disapproval of his passion for art, mentions the repercussions of World War II, how his parents separated and later divorce, and how he took refuge in his dream of becoming a cartoonist. Say found a Sensei who mentored him, friends who guided him and encouraged his artistic yearnings, he credits them for helping him become the world renowned artist that he is today.

3.      CRITICAL ANALYSIS

This book written by Allen Say, is “part memoir, part graphic novel, part narrative history…” the history of his life and everything and everyone he encountered throughout his life. It brings to light his relationship with his “spiritual father,” Noro Shenpei, Japan’s leading cartoonist, whom he credits for his inspiration and determination that helped him accomplish his life dream of becoming a cartoonist.

4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

2012 Robert F. Sibert Honor Book

Goodreads starred review: “Caldecott Medalist Allen Say presents a stunning graphic novel chronicling his journey as an artist during WWII, when he apprenticed under Noro Shenpei, Japan’s premier cartoonist.”

Scholastic starred review: “Drawing From Memory” is Allen Say’s own story of his pain to becoming the renowned artist he is today.”

 

5. CONNECTIONS

*Invite students to write about what their dream in life is. Introduce other biographies of renowned artists.

*Other books about accomplishing your dreams are:

Greenberg, Jan. Chuck Close Up Close. ISBN 0329212125

Young, Ed. The House Baba Built: An Artist’s Childhood in China. ISBN 978-0316076289

Joyce Sidman's "This Is Just to Say Poems of Apology and Forgiveness"

1.   BIBLIOGRAPHY

Sidman, Joyce. 2007. This Is Just to Say Poems of Apology and Forgiveness. Ill. by Pamela Zagarenski. Boston: Houghton Mifflin Company. ISBN 978-0-618-61680-0

2.  PLOT SUMMARY

 In this book of poetry, Joyce Sidman, has compiled poems from “students,” inspired by the great Williams Carlos Williams’s poem, This Is Just to Say. There are two parts to the book, part one and part two,  part I is the Apologies section, part II is the Responses to the Apology Poems. The poems throughout the book are incredibly witty, funny, emotional and profoundly relevant to students. The poems express and capture the message in a kid-friendly format.

3.  CRITICAL ANALYSIS

The format and layout of the poems that Sidman wrote, were very visually appealing. The illustrations done by Pamela Zagarenski go hand in hand, and assist in telling the poems’ stories. The illustrations in the book are appropriate for the age demographic which would be elementary students. Zagarenski’s illustrations are colorful, childlike and theatrical and compliment the poems in a creative aspect.

The introduction of the book was done by a character from the “class” and was rich in background history as to how the book came to be and its purpose. The poems really do play of from Williams Carlos Williams’s poem, and its thematic coherency is seen and evident throughout the book; the Apologies and Responses sections work very well together.

4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

School Library Journal starred review: “Sidman’s ear is keen, capturing many voices. Her skill as a poet is accessible to young people is unmatched…”

Goodreads starred review: “In haiku, pantoums, two-part poems, snippets, and rhymes, Mrs. Merz’s class writes of crushes, overbearing parents, loving and losing pets, and more. Some poets are deeply sorry; some not at all some are forgiven; some are not. In each pair of poems a relationship, a connection, is revealed.”

5. CONNECTIONS

This Poetry Book can be used to introduce poetry, and students can use it as a foundation and guide on how to compose an apology poem, just like the great poets. The poems can have a thematic unit to make it more meaningful and can be displayed in the school’s library to promote Poetry!

Other engaging books with similar theme are:

Florian, Douglas. Comets, Stars, the Moon, and Mars: Space Poems and Paintings. ISBN 978-0152053727

Janeczko, Paul B. A Kick in the Head. An Everyday Guide to Poetic Forms. ISBN 978-0763606626

Patrick J. Lewis's "Skywriting: Poems to Fly"

1.   BIBLIOGRAPHY

Lewis, Patrick J. 2010. Skywriting: Poems to Fly. Ill. by Laszlo Kubinyi. Mankato, MN. Creative Editions. ISBN 978-1-56846-203-5

2.  PLOT SUMMARY

In his book of poetry, J. Patrick Lewis wrote with intricate detail and eloquent vocabulary, with the poems being thematically linked through the topic of flight. The book is filled with allusions to historical figures that were pioneers in the invention and journey of flying, and the people who built machines across the world to make the dream of flying a reality! The flight poems are extraordinarily well written with rich vocabulary and breathtaking illustrations. The poems are very captivating and descriptive, the illustrations align and help tell the story of each poem. One of the poems is a concrete poem, it offers a creative visual style that makes it even more alluring to the reader.

3.  CRITICAL ANALYSIS

The poems written by Lewis are displayed elegantly in a unison font, the only change for certain poems is the size, color of the font depending on the background or illustrations surrounding the poem, the exception being the shape for the concrete poem. Reading the thirteen poems about the innovation and pursuit of flying was extraordinarily insightful. The illustrations done by Laszlo Kubinyi epically and beautifully displayed the theme in a realistic manner.

The manner in which the book is put together is impressively and artistically well done. The book commences with the table of content, followed with the first poem that can be referenced as the founding father of the flight poems “The Flight of Icarus” followed by eleven more poems ending with the “Space Shuttle Columbia STS109” then the Endnotes which provide historical background in the information, and lastly the Timeline of Human Inventions. The poems are written with exceptional vocabulary and tell the individual flight stories that captivate the readers’ attention, along with illustrations that are artistically mystical.

4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

Learning Magazine starred review: “Ever since people have walked, they have dreamed of flying. This book applauds the history of humankind’s attempts to realize that dream, from the ancient story of Icarus to the modern age of space travel. The poems memorialize different forms of flight throughout the years.”

Booklist starred review: “In this picture-book anthology of 13 poems, Lewis celebrates the dramatic adventure of flight, from the ancient Greek of Icarus to the Wright brothers’ story…”

5. CONNECTIONS

The thematic poetry book about flight can be very engaging and students can choose a certain flight invention as inspiration to further develop their own poems. Have students write a poem and illustrations with it and display it in a bulletin board to show their created works.

*Other engaging books sharing the same theme:

Brown, Margaret Wise. Away in My Airplane. ASIN B0147EZYNS eBook

Kent, Mariah. Superpowers: More Poems About Flying. ISBN 978-0615777245

Margarita Engle's "The Firefly Letters"

1.   BIBLIOGRAPHY

Engle, Margarita. 2010. The Firefly Letters A Suffragette’s Journey To Cuba. New York: Henry Holt and Company. ISBN 978-0-8050-9082-6

2.  PLOT SUMMARY

 Margarita Engle’s book of poetry is a mesmerizing novel in verse, from start to finish. The poems are told from the characters’ points of view, there are four characters, Fredrika the Swedish Woman writer, Elena the young wealthy girl whose parents are hosting Fredrika, Cecilia a native from Africa who was sold into slavery and is now a slave in Cuba for Elena’s family, and Beni who is Cecilia’s husband.  In the poems the characters narrate their position in life, their surroundings, hopes, dreams and stance on women’s rights and slavery; they are all centered on historical women’s rights pioneer Fredrika Bremer, and her three month journey to Cuba, which inspired this book of poems.

3.  CRITICAL ANALYSIS

There are seventy-four poems in this book, written by award-winning Poet, Margarita Engle, each poem is a captivating and fascinating as the next. The poems are narratives told each in of the characters points of view. Moreover, the fireflies are referenced throughout the book, they symbolize feelings of captivity, and entrapment, yet also represent freedom and the ability to carry hope even at the darkest of times. The theme of this poetry book is the promotion and illumination of women’s rights and slavery, its purpose to shed light on these injustices, specifically in Cuba.

The only illustrations are on the Book jacket that were done by Jacket Illustrations by Ana Juan. Jacket Design by Rich Deas. The front cover is a painting of a woman whose hair freely blows in the wind and in it are fireflies that seemed to be intertwined and weaved in her hair floating in it ever so majestically.

4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

Pura Belpre Honor Book for Narrative: 2011.

Booklist starred review: “Readers will be caught by the compelling narrative voices.”

Goodreads starred review: “In this quietly powerful new book, award-winning poet Margarita Engle paints a portrait of early women’s rights pioneer Fredrika Bremer and the journey to Cuba that transformed her life.”

5. CONNECTIONS

With this verse novel, the lesson of women’s rights and slavery can be linked with a History class and vertically aligned with this theme and historical context.

Other engaging and informative books are:

Grimes, Nikki. A Girl Named Mister. ISBN 978-0310723134

Williams, Carol Lynch. Glimpse. ISBN 978-1416997313

Walter Dean Myers's "Here in Harlem poems in many voices"

1.      BIBLIOGRAPHY

Myers, Walter Dean. 2004. Here in Harlem poems in many voices. New York: Holiday House. ISBN 0-8234-1853-7

2.  PLOT SUMMARY

 In his book, Poet Walter Dean Myers does an eloquent job of giving a voice to the people of Harlem, throughout his fifty-four poems. The poems are skillfully written in verse and are full of voice and characterization, the different voices are representative of people from all walks of life, residents from Harlem, which adds more substance to the book. The poems are accompanied with black and white photographs that help place the reader in the unique setting that is Harlem.

3.      CRITICAL ANALYSIS

The poems in the book are in a unison font, the photographs are in black and white, aesthetically simple, yet effective. Myers wrote, “I have added photographs to the text because I love the images, not to match the poems. The images and the voices race through my mind in a sustained triumph of place and community.”

The book’s design and format is simplistic, yet poignant, the front cover of the book displays a photograph of Duke Ellington and two of his singers, in 1938 that captures the existential life of Harlem; it shows a glimpse of the beloved Harlem. The poems are written in verse and adequately evoke the spirits of the residents of Harlem. Myers brilliantly captured the life, atmosphere and heart of the illustrious Harlem!

4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

School Library Journal starred review: “Myers’s skill with characterization and voice are apparent as he models Edgar Lee Masters’s Spoon River Anthology (Sagebrush, 1962) to bring Harlem to life for readers.”

Kirkus starred review: “In this Whitman-esque ode to time and the city, the “crazy quilt patterns” of Harlem are reflected in the voices of the neighborhoods “big time people and its struggling folk…”

5. CONNECTIONS

This book of poems can serve as a historical background piece, and used to celebrate African-American Poets, and displayed proudly in a book-display during Black History Month in the school library.

*Other engaging books written in verse are:

Myers, Walter Dean. Harlem: A Poem. ISBN 978-0590543408

Hughes, Langston. The Dream Keeper and other poems. ISBN 978-0679883470

Simms Taback's, "Joseph Had a Little Overcoat" Book Review

1. BIBLIOGRAPHY

Taback, Simms. 1999. Joseph Had a Little Overcoat. Ill. by Simms Taback. Penguin Group: New York, New York. ISBN 0-329-15300-5

2.  PLOT SUMMARY

Joseph Had a Little Overcoat, is a retelling of a Yiddish folk song turned folktale. In this version, the Yiddish song was transformed into a story, in which a humble man cherishes his worn overcoat. As the story progresses, Joseph’s overcoat is used continuously by the protagonist, the overcoat is transformed into a jacket, then vest, next a scarf, followed by a necktie, to a handkerchief, and lastly ends up being used in a button. This story’s time period has a lot to do with its development, it was during a time where resources were scarce and limited. People were resourceful and used everything to the max, at the end of the story there is a surprise that links back to the moral of the story. The moral of the story is that you can always make something out of nothing. The silver lining is to learn to appreciate what you have, be content with what you have and cherish it!

3.  CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Taback’s retelling is a very creative approach that captures the attention of the reader, the artwork is jovial and bold. Taback’s inventive use of the die-cut pages ups the ante and intrigues the intermediate readers. The protagonist Joseph, looks similar to author/illustrator Taback. The story is an ode to the Jewish culture. A neat aspect, which adds to the book’s uniqueness, is that throughout the book there are cut-outs in Joseph’s overcoat. The cut-outs serve as a point of interest, because you can use it to hold the reader’s attention and have them predict what the overcoat will be made into next! The book is a narration, the protagonist Joseph does not speak, but is used to display the development of the story. The illustrations were pencil, ink, watercolor, and collage, with the dominant colors being paired to autumn, shades of brown, a forest green and black are incorporated in the images resolution.

4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

The Caldecott Medal.

Publishers Weekly starred review: “As in his Caldecott Honor book, There was an Old Lady who Swallowed a Fly, Taback’s inventive use of die-cut pages shows of his signature artwork, were newly created for his 1977 adaptation of a Yiddish folk song.”

Common Sense Media starred review: “Simms Taback is a master of collage: Dozens of photographed faces peek out of an apartment scene and pointed plants are topped with real vegetables. Kids find the clothing-shaped, die-cut holes irresistible…”

5. CONNECTIONS

*This story can be used in a read-aloud setting, and at the end of the story, the Yiddish song “I Had a Little Overcoat” can be song in a chorus. The tale’s moral is that one can always make something out of nothing, this is a good theme in which students can be taught a valuable lesson.

*Other stories like this one:

Taback, Simms. There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly. ISBN 978-0670869398

Pfister, Marcus. The Rainbow Fish. ISBN 978-1558580091

David Wiesner's,"The Three Pigs" Book Review

 BIBLIOGRAPHY

Wiesner, David. 2001. The Three Pigs. Ill. by David Wiesner. Clarion Books: New York. ISBN 978-0-618-00701-1

2. PLOT SUMMARY

The Three Pigs is a retelling of the English Fairy Tale, yet it has an unexpected twist! In this version the story begins like the classic tale, with three pigs who built their houses out of straw, sticks and bricks, and the wolf blows down the first two pigs’ homes and appears to have eaten them both. Yet, the story’s plot, mischievously turns into a playful twist, in which the three pigs go on a journey and explore other stories, and encounter other characters. In one fairytale within the main fairy tale, the pigs befriend a mighty dragon who then joins them and contributes to the story’s spectacular development, and unique ending!

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS

This story has humoristic qualities, and commences with a familiar beginning like the classic, with the three pigs building their homes. Then when the wolf encounters the third pig, there is a shift in the story and it transitions into a land of imagination. Wiesner’s illustrations begin in a traditional manner, with the pigs and the wolf portrayed realistically in the beginning. However, the paradigm shifts to a more cinematic style, the pictures seem to have a pop-up quality with the dialogue blurbs adding a modern graphic novel feel; the transition and transformation the pigs go through, is quite admirable, since the pigs are jumping from story to story, the dimensions in the pictures and pigs are well proportioned. The blank pages in the middle of the book provide an illuminating contrast. The illustrations throughout, are assigned a clear theme, that is cohesively and imaginatively well-done. The pigs change from realistic to cartoonish, and back and forth, the colors vary in scale from subtle browns and mute grays, to vibrant gold and brilliant green. The illustrations do a splendid job, bringing this endearing retelling of the beloved The Three Little Pigs, to life.

4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

The Caldecott Medal.

Publishers Weekly starred review: “Even the book’s younger readers will understand the distinctive visual code. As the pigs enter the confines of a storybook page, they conform to that book’s illustrative style, appearing as nursery-rhyme friezes or comic-book line drawings.”

Good Media starred review: “The Three Pigs, is about morality and imagination.”

5. CONNECTIONS

*This story would be great for a class reading in which the whole class plays a role, it focuses on the moral reasoning of concern for others well-being and platonic relationships with others. Simple costuming that can be made in class by students, like pigs masks, hand puppets with brown paper lunch bags would be a great addition to incorporate.

*Other stories in which three characters encounter a dilemma are:

Kimmel, Eric A. The Three Little Tamales. ISBN 978-0-7614-5519-16

McNamara, Margaret. The Three Aliens and the Big Bad Robot. ISBN 978-0375866890

Jerry Pinkney's, "The Ugly Duckling" Book Review

1. BIBLIOGRAPHY

Pinkney, Jerry. 1999. The Ugly Duckling. Ill. by Jerry Pinkney. Morrow Junior Books: New York. ISBN 978-0-688-15933-7

2.  PLOT SUMMARY

The Ugly Duckling is a retelling of a Danish Literary Fairy Tale. This version stays true to the Hans Christian Andersen’s central theme. The main character, the ugly duckling, experiences discrimination since the day he hatched, the ducks made him feel like he is ugly because of his unconventional looks. His mother nurtures him, and tries to instill positivity into him, and the notion that looks are not important. However, the duckling still faces backlash from all around because of his looks, which prompts him to escape and go in search of acceptance. In his journey, he encounters many who do not understand his plight or purpose. In the end, the ugly duckling experiences an amazing transformation, and his outer looks finally match his benevolent soul.   

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS

This tale has dramatic qualities that pull on the readers’ heartstrings; the adversity that the ugly duckling experiences represents everyone’s own insecurities, and imparts a valuable lesson on patience, being a virtue. One must have the patience to learn, to understand their own true beauty. Pinkney’s illustrations offer a dramatic effect, with very realistic drawings that captivate the viewers. The pictures display serene backgrounds, passages that are beautiful and detailed. Nature is an element that really shines throughout all the pages, the illustrator captures the spring season in bright greens, winter in icy cold and blue undertones, summer in yellow and bright blues, all the are seasons so eloquently represented. There is a contrast between the homely brown ducks and the magnificent white swans. The last image of the ugly duckling is brilliantly done, it shows the metamorphosis that he experiences, and the image encapsulates the turning from ugly duckling to exquisite swan. The illustrator purposely accented and highlighted the swan in a golden, yellow light to go with the text in the story, “His feathers and his beak are the brightest of all.” The story’s text and illustrations are a delightful combination that work hand in hand, to depict this beloved tale.

4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

Caldecott Honor Book.

ALA Booklist starred review: “Dramatic in content, sensitive in line, and rich with color… Children who are not familiar with the story will be captivated; those who have had the story read to them before will find new things to shiver over.”

Kirkus Reviews starred review: “Pinkney puts his heart into a story he loves, and makes it live again.”

5. CONNECTIONS

*This is a great story to teach self-confidence with it and why it is necessary to discover one’s own true beauty. The story’s illustrations captivate the students’ attention, and it would be an excellent read, to be done in circle reading.

*Other stories where the theme is similar:

Sneed, Brad. Thumbelina. ISBN 9780803728127

Williams, Margery. The Velveteen Rabbit. ISBN 978-0385077255

Eric A. Kimmel's, "The Three Little Tamales" Book Review

1.      BIBLIOGRAPHY

Kimmel, Eric A. 2009. The Three Little Tamales. Ill. by Valeria Docampo. Marshall Cavendish. New York. ISBN 978-0-7614-5519-6

2.  PLOT SUMMARY

The Three Little Tamales, is a retelling of the English Fairy Tale The Three Little Pigs, this version of the tale alludes to the beloved classic. This new age take is infused with Mexican essence and traditions; the story uses personification to bring three tamales to life and explores the moral of why hard work is valuable. The three little tamales escape the taqueria, a little restaurant, in which they were made in, because they do not want to be eaten. They escaped, one made her house out of sage bush, the second he made it out of cornstalks, and the last one she made it out of a cactus. When Senor Lobo, the Big Bad Wolf, appears the story unfolds quite comically and proceeds to teach a valuable lesson to all who read it!

3.      CRITICAL ANALYSIS

This story has comedic qualities that are used to retell this great lesson to children, using a more relevant platform, it incorporates Hispanic traditions, embedding in it a world famous Mexican dish, such as tamales. The plot develops quite brilliantly because the illustrations done by Docampo vividly display the setting of rural Texas. Valeria Docampo’s illustrations are filled with vibrant colors that evoke a fiesta, a Mexican celebration, the colors red, white, and green are spread throughout the pictures, giving an homage to the Mexican flag.  In the taqueria, chiles (peppers) adorn the building and the sombreros that the characters are wearing, are an ode to Mexican traditions, and provide a visual representation with it. Throughout the pages, the dominant colors are bright yellow, serene blues, bright green surroundings, the tamales are highlighted and accentuated in a beautiful golden color, which makes them standout, and the central focus in the pages. The illustration add another dimension to the story being told and help bring to life the three little tamales!

4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

Library Media Connection starred review: “Here’s another Three Little Pigs variation; it’s quite silly, but it works. Complete with a glossary of Mexican terms, this story is fun and well-written.”

School Library Journal starred review: “ Kimmel has pulled the pork from The Three Little Pigs, wrapped it in masa, and cooked up another traditional tale flavored with Southwestern spice.”

5. CONNECTIONS

*This story would be a great read in an open circle reading because of the lyrical chants of Senor Lobo, in which the students could participate and join in reading aloud those particular chants. Props like different color ribbons could be used to designate the three students that will read the parts of the whimsical tamales

*Other stories in which the theme of The Three Little Pigs is reference in are:

Kimmel, Eric A. The Three Cabritos. ISBN 978-0761463092

Grace, Will. The Three Little Fish And The Big Bad Shark. ISBN 978-0439719629