Crossover

Alexander, K. (2014). Crossover. New York: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt

      Presented in a variety of poetic forms, Crossover tells the story of twin brother Josh and Jordan Bell, their basketball player dad and their assistant principal mom. The rhyme and verse set the tone for this family and their world as it revolves around basketball. Their enjoyment of music creeps its way into the poetry and many pages read like a song. Each turn of the page reveals a new style of verse without losing any rhythm in the plot or distracting from the characters. Kwame Alexander managed to capture the essence of basketball, family and heart in this innovative approach to poetry and it is a masterpiece. 

Textbook Assignment #3

Evaluative Criteria #1 - Style

   The lines and rhymes in Crossover have such a melodic quality that the words seem to float off the pages. Alexander’s use of poetry is an interesting approach to a book about basketball, but it works and the result is phenomenal. The book reads like a narrative but each page is different from the next in its presentation. From rhyming poems to conversations only consisting of questions, Alexander has exposed the reader to a wide variety of poetry styles. This would make a great book study for a mid-level English class because of its integration of so many excellent writing styles in one, powerful story.  

Evaluative Criteria #2 - Characters

Josh Bell, aka Filthy McNasty, is known for his long hair, his famous dad, and his own impressive basketball skills. He has a strong bond with his family, is a good student, and basketball is his life. His twin brother Jordan, or JB, shares most of these traits, except for the hair. These brothers are inseparable until a girl gets in the way and the dynamic shifts. Josh struggles to deal with his jealousy and new-found loneliness, while also trying to balance his worry for his dad and keeping his mom happy. The boys and their dad share a love for basketball and music, but are also refreshingly well rounded in their interests and values. Dad’s obsession with basketball permeates everything he does and his stubbornness creates conflict for his family. Mom rounds out the family as the no nonsense boss who adores her boys and her husband. Kwame Alexander has portrayed a healthy, relatable family unit that takes the reader on a wild ride of emotions.

Review and Study Guide

http://www.bookrags.com/studyguide-the-crossover/#gsc.tab=0

Book Trailer

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BONWz5Ao82E

George

Gino, A. (2015). George. NY: Scholastic

      When I started this book, I was determined to keep an open mind. I didn't tell my family what the book was about because I didn't want any opinions or outside distractions, it was just me and George. I almost dared this book to change my mind and really hoped it would offer me some insight and compassion for a topic that goes against my personal beliefs.  George is a boy who feels he really is a girl. The use of the feminine pronouns helps the reader think of him as a girl, but it would be very confusing to a young reader. I found much of the dialogue between George and his best friend Kelly to be very unrealistic for ten year old conversation, especially considering Kelly is basically raising herself. I found the plot to be rather dull. I was not particularly captivated with whether or not George would get to read the part of Charlotte in the play. The most climactic elements for me were waiting for George to tell Kelly and his family his secret. 

      Personally, I live with a ten year old boy and so many times while reading this book I wondered if Alex Nino has spent much time with 4th graders. With some exceptions, they aren't as complex as George and Kelly. Much of George's thought processes and feelings felt way too advanced while the absence of his father was handled very flippantly.  In the end, I can see why people would feel that this book breaks barriers and explores new topics not usually seen in children's literature. For me, I looked past the story and characters and saw an author with an agenda who used a strange platform. 

Textbook Assignment #3

Evaluative Criteria #1 - Gender and Culture

        In a moment of time where a famous male athlete now identifies as a female, George certainly finds itself as a relevant topic in today’s culture. The main character, George, feels he is a girl and is, throughout the book, referred to with feminine pronouns. The gender differences between boys and girls are a constant source of confusion for George and are explored in depth in both George’s thoughts and conversations with best friend, Kelly.  The discussion of femininity and sexuality are hot topic issues in today’s culture.

Evaluative Criteria #2 - Theme

   Alex Nino explores a theme in George that is rarely discussed in children’s literature. George is weighed down with the burden of feeling like he really is a girl and therefore, has difficulties in every aspect of his life. George struggles to truthfully communicate with his mother, to connect with his older brother, and to feel comfortable in his own body. The risk of such a theme is that it might be difficult for many children to relate or simply understand the character. The use of female pronouns in reference to George would be very confusing for young readers to follow and George’s obsession with all things feminine might struggle to appeal to its intended audience.

Bridge to Terabithia

Paterson, K. (1977). Bridge to Terabithia. NY: HarperCollins

     Jesse Aarons starts 5th grade with one goal, he wants to be the fastest kid in the school. This is finally his year and he's worked all summer to make sure he's faster than anyone else. Little does he know that his new neighbor Leslie, a girl who doesn't look or act like any other girl he's met, is about to derail his plans. Jesse's life is not easy. His parents are struggling financially, his house is overrun with sisters, and he seems to be the only child required to help around the house and farm. Despite his best efforts to be cold to Leslie, he finds himself with a new best friend and a new secret world to share with her. The two create the magical land Terabithia and it is there that their friendship grows. Jess finds a kindred spirit in Leslie as they share a passion for creativity, something that Jess's father doesn't appreciate. Leslie's lack of fear worries Jess while he struggles to understand his own excess of fear. Ironically, this leads to tragedy and Jess has to face the reality of loss, confusion, and healing. 

Textbook Assignment #3

Evaluation Criteria #1 - Setting

   Jesse and Leslie’s lives, set out in a remote area, offer the perfect setting for these two friends to explore, find seclusion, and create the world of Terabithia. It is there that Jesse finds a kindred spirit in Leslie and where the two find true friendship. The setting plays an integral role in the plot and we first see this through Jesse’s desire to be the fastest kid in the school. The hours spent running in the open field outside his home showcase his determination. This is also where Jesse first glimpses his new neighbor Leslie, who eventually ruins his quest to be the fastest kid. While the story shifts to school and back home, the characters and the plot develop in the time spent in Terabithia. It is ultimately the landscape and force of nature that concludes this story in a tragic way.    

Evaluative Criteria #2 - Plot

    The storyline involving Jess and Leslie is told logically and in a believable way. When Jess chastises himself for being selfish, it comes across as appropriate for a 10 year old boy who is old enough to know he shouldn’t only think of himself. Leslie is an extraordinary girl who is wise and full of a spirit of adventure. It is the pairing of these two kids that creates a realistic plot full of situations that many ten year olds will understand. They team up to survive the school bully, entertain themselves during the long afternoons at home and fill the voids left by their families. With the exception of one minor foreshadow, the plot twist near the end is just as unexpected for the reader as it is for the characters in the story.

Lesson Plan:

http://www.readwritethink.org/classroom-resources/lesson-plans/exploring-friendship-with-bridge-981.html?tab=4#tabs

Book Trailer

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_WA8-hRFs50

Primates

Ottaviani, J. (2013). Primates. NY: FirstSecond.

     Jane Goodall, Dian Fossey, and Birute Goldikas and their work with primates are creatively portrayed in this informational graphic novel aimed at kids in the middle grades. The cartoon-like depictions draw in readers to a world of science and research sprinkled with humor and charm. Ottaviani doesn't shy away from the realities of their lives and the difficulties they faced, both as women in a male dominate world or in the complications that come with life in the African bush.This group biography succeeds in introducing the reader to these three admirable women in an entertaining and accessible way. 

Textbook Assignment #2

Evaluative Criteria - Design

     The format and presentation of Primates is that of a graphic novel aimed at older children or young adults. The life stories of these three women are laid out in comic style pages with conversational and sometimes humorous dialogue. Covering these three primatologists’ work and accomplishments, Jim Ottaviani and Maris Wicks have treated a new generation of readers to the world of primates. Their focus seemed to be on the overall design in hopes of appealing to a broader audience. The dialogue is not overly scientific and, at times, a work of fiction but the material covered and the style of presentation is enough to pique the interest of any scientist or animal lover.

Teaching Books
http://www.teachingbooks.net/tb.cgi?aid=11716&a=1&a2=1

Book Trailer
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0jLASr1Abmg

It's perfectly normal

Harris, R. (2014). It's perfectly normal: Changing bodies, growing up, sex, and sexual health. Boston, MA: Candlewick Press.

      To quote NPR, "It's perfectly normal, but its also frequently banned." No topic is left untouched in this child-like explanation of puberty, sex and sexual health. The details and drawings are geared towards a young audience while fully describing topics that are usually meant for a more mature crowd. The argument can be made that this book is too explicit for young children and should only be introduced to a child through a parent's careful guidance. The addition of several controversial topics such as homosexuality and abortion make it a book that's purpose may be overshadowed by its implementation.  

Textbook Assignment #2

Evaluative Criteria - Organization

       Written and presented like a textbook, the organization of It’s perfectly normal allows readers to seek out information related to puberty, health and sex in any fashion they choose. The presentation of this information is written in simple, easily understood terminology and is accompanied by cartoon-like illustrations aimed at a young audience. The inclusion of a table of contents broken down further into topic gives readers a glance into the subject matter covered. A thorough index gives further organization of topics for quick access.

Author page
http://robieharris.com/?page_id=186

Spiders

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Bishop, N. (2007). Spiders. NY: Scholastic.

      Beware arachnophobes! Nic Bishop'e extreme close-up photos of a wide variety of spiders may make you squirm but the beauty of his art cannot be denied. Spiders are portrayed in their natural habitat building webs, attacking prey, mating and laying eggs. Bishop's passion for these creatures is evidenced in his meticulous photo collection and concise informational text. A true spider fan will appreciate the explanation at the end of the book that details how he captured his shots and the stories behind the photos.

Textbook Assignment #2

Evaluative Criteria - Design

      Lacking the usual non-fiction text features, Nic Bishop’s Spiders engages the reader with short, concise bits of information and incredible full-page photographs. The appeal of this book is the collection of photos that demonstrate the author’s fascination and commitment to capture the right shot. Each enlarged, yet crisp, photograph is accompanied by basic information about the spider plus a bonus fact for any spider enthusiast. Whether you’re intrigued by spiders or by photography, Nic Bishop’s work is worthy of your time and appreciation.

Teaching Books
http://www.teachingbooks.net/tb.cgi?tid=10287

Author webpage and photographs
http://www.nicbishop.com/

Me... Jane

McDonnell, P. (2011). Me...Jane. NY: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers.

       Jane and her stuffed chimpanzee, Jubilee, transport the reader through the magical world of young Jane Goodall's imagination and dreams. The charming illustrations in muted tones are mixed with Jane's childhood drawings and the text pages are beautifully decorated with engravings of animals and nature. Goodall's passion for wildlife is evident and the fact that her dreams were realized is inspiring to any reader. The biographical information and photographs of Jane at the end round out a perfectly told story about a remarkable woman's journey to fulfilling her dreams.  

Textbook Assignment #2

Evaluative Criteria - Design

        Presented as a storybook, Me...Jane tells the story of Jane Goodall and what inspired her work with chimpanzees. The beautiful illustrations and charming story set it apart from other informational non-fictions books in both appearance and readability. The inclusion of Jane Goodall’s actual childhood drawings mixed with Patrick McDonnell’s watercolor create a perfectly inviting and engaging story.

Lesson plans and author information:

http://www.teachingbooks.net/tb.cgi?tid=22956&a=1

Hitler Youth

Bartoletti, S. (2005). Hitler Youth. NY: Scholastic.

       It's easy for us to look back on history and wonder how the people of Germany could allow Hitler to rise to power and nearly destroy a race of people. In Hitler Youth, it becomes more clear how he took advantage of a time and place in history that craved change and leadership. Hearing Hitler's haunting words like "I begin with the young... With them, I can create a new world," coupled with the fact that the youth in Germany were hungry for retaliation after the embarrassment of World War I, makes it easier to see how the perfect storm was created.  The formation of the largest youth group in the history of the world is chronicled with personal accounts of the people of Germany, giving the reader a glimpse into what it was like to be fear or follow of Hitler. The inclusion of historical photos fill out the stirring tales of Hitler's rise to power, the terror he ignited, and ultimately his downfall. 

Textbook Assignment #2

Evaluative Criteria - Accuracy

The story of Adolf Hitler and the horrors he imposed on both Germany and the world are thoroughly covered in history books. His focus and influence on the youth of Germany is not as widely known and is carefully detailed in Hitler Youth. The progression of these children mirror Hitler’s rise to power. What started as an appeal to the German youth, who had just suffered embarrassment and defeat in the first World War, turned into a revolution of control and hatred.

The personal stories portrayed in Hitler Youth bring a new perspective to the Germans who were influenced by Hitler and ultimately became part of the Nazi party. It is fascinating to see these people as individuals separate from the evil they inflicted at Hitler’s orders. The chilling stories retold and the young people’s trust in Hitler make for a riveting walk through a dark time in history.  

Teaching Books

http://www.teachingbooks.net/tb.cgi?tid=8286&a=1

Author reading from book
http://www.scholastic.com/teachers/asset/susan-campbell-bartoletti-reads-hitler-youth

We are the ship: The Story of the Negro League Baseball

Nelson, K. (2008). We are the ship. NY: Hyperion.

      Kadir Nelson has created a masterful tribute to the men who worked, played, and struggled in the Negro League Baseball. The continual first person perspective divided up into nine innings show both the pride and pain faced by men like Rube Foster and Jackie Robinson. The baseball story line mirrors the moments in history starting in the 1920's and the plight of a black athlete in a white world. Nelson's creative telling of their story is nearly overshadowed by the incredible paintings that that bring to life the men and teams who have more than earned their place in American sports history.

Textbook Assignment #2

Evaluative Criteria - Style

      The amazing stories of gifted athletes who faced discrimination, low wages, and horrible conditions to pursue their dreams come to life through the use of Kadir Nelson’s beautiful paintings. The first person narration reveals a knowledgeable voice that tells the good, the bad and the ugly without any hint of hate or contempt. The stories speak to the injustice these men faced while the paintings perfectly depict the brave men who simply wanted to play baseball.

Evaluative Criteria - Accuracy

     The depth of knowledge and research that created We are the ship shows Kadir Nelson’s commitment to telling this story in an honorable way. Not only were the American league players thoroughly detailed, but the owners and managers who faced and fought discrimination get to tell their story. The large, beautiful portraits demonstrate Nelson’s passion for the game, these men, and their place in history.

Teaching Books
http://www.teachingbooks.net/tb.cgi?tid=10325

Storyboard Lesson
http://www.storyboardthat.com/teacher-guide/we-are-the-ship--the-story-of-the-negro-league-baseball-by-kadir-nelson

How they croaked: The awful ends of the awfully famous.

Bragg, G. (2011). How they croaked: The Awful Ends of the Awfully Famous. NY: Bloomsbury.

    You don’t have to be obsessed with death to find this book intriguing. The short, yet thoroughly informative chapters tell an interesting story of the life and death of some of history’s most famous characters. Never will you be more appreciative of educated doctors, antibiotics or even soap! Reading the details of these painful and at times, unimaginable deaths will make you cringe, while simultaneously having a new fondness for people like George Washington, Charles Dickens, and Cleopatra. The book is occasionally gory, which is addressed in the warning at the beginning of the book but also serves as a great avenue for exposing kids (4th grade and up) to an interesting view of history. 

Textbook Assignment #2

Evaluative Criteria - Organization

     Each person chronicled in this book gets a thorough, yet clear explanation of his or her death story. It is then followed up by two pages of fact, historical medical practices, timelines, wordplay, and general trivia. The table of contents and index allow quick access to each story of the nearly 20 poor souls documented in this book.  

Evaluative Criteria - Design

         Cryptic font and chapter titles written on headstone are only part of the design choices made by illustrator Kevin O’Malley. He cleverly uses the grim reaper, black crows and skull-and-crossbones page numbers to set the tone for this book. While the topic may be grim, the illustrations don’t allow the book to take itself too seriously. Add to that the not-so-flattering drawings of the deceased and you have an unexpectedly entertaining book about death.

Teaching Books
http://www.teachingbooks.net/tb.cgi?tid=23590

Book Trailer
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v_g1DKSH6T8

Balloons over Broadway: The true story of the puppeteer of Macy's parade.

Sweet, M. (2011). Balloons over Broadway: The true story of the puppeteer of Macy's parade. NY: Hyperion.

      Tony Sarg's name may not be widely known, but his legacy lives on in the artistry and originality of the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade. From this creative way to feed the chickens when he was a child to his work with marionettes, Melissa Sweet offers a worthy tribute to a deserving artist. The bold, colorful illustrations and mix of media frame Sarg's world and offer a visual treat for the reader. Seeing the progression of his upside down puppets into what we enjoy every Thanksgiving morning is both informative and entertaining for young and old alike. 

Textbook Assignment #2

Evaluative Criteria - Style

     Melissa Sweet’s attention to detail brings to life the work of Tony Sarg and the Macy’s parade. Her clever use of collages, mixed with paintings and sketches, creates a world filled with imagination and fun. Tony Sarg’s gift and legacy has been enjoyed for many years.  Sweet captures and presents his world of puppetry and marionettes with great honor and appreciation. Balloons over Broadway gives today’s children a renewed understanding of Sarg’s creativity and innovation.

Activity pages
http://www.hmhbooks.com/kids/resources/BalloonsOverBroadway_ActivityKit.pdf

Teaching Books
http://www.teachingbooks.net/tb.cgi?tid=27322&a=1