Wednesday, February 17, 2016
The Impossible Knife of Memory by Laurie Halse Anderson
Genre: Realistic Contemporary Fiction
Viking Books 2014
Hardcover $18.99 391 pages
ISBN 978-0-670-01209-1
The story of Hayley, a teenage girl entering a traditional school for the first time, as she and her dad move into her grandmother's house hoping that the stability will help her father in recovering from his PTSD, he is a military veteran that served two tours in war zones.
Intended Audience: This book is intended for teenagers.
Whom It Will Appeal To: This book will appeal to teens and adults, especially those that have experienced mental health issues or those with a family member dealing with such issues.
Particular Strengths: The book explains PTSD, and shows it, fairly well. It also shows the stress of caring for someone with PTSD and how it impacts a family's life. The chapters are very short, making it easier to read for short periods of time and could possibly make it less intimidating for readers that are more reluctant. Teenagers will be able to relate with many of the protagonist's feelings related to school, and being the new kid at school.
Particular Weaknesses: Some readers may find the short chapters disruptive to the flow of the narrative.
Special Considerations: This book deals with mental health issues and suicidal thoughts. There is also some drinking and drug use by the father and his friends.
Verdict: I would definitely include this book in my collection for middle school or high school.
The Carnival at Bray is written for a young adult audience with a strong female protagonist who will appeal to girls. And while the narrative is told in third person, the narrative commentary focuses primarily on Maggie. There is little to no commentary reflecting on the male characters’ inner lives.I am not sure there is enough revelation of male psyche to really appeal to a male audience here. Despite the alternative music backdrop, which did have a huge male following in the 1990s, I don’t know if that is enough to capture a significant male reading audience.
ReplyDeleteThe novel is a contemporary historical fiction, a year-in-the-life of one Maggie Lynch during the early 1990s. The fact that the Maggie could be one of today’s readers’ mother will fascinate and intrigue readers.
Maggie’s identity, not only as a teen, but as an Irish-American straddling a life in two countries and adopting one as her forever home, is fascinating. Many of today’s young readers come from other countries and can relate to Maggie’s struggle to make friends and figure out where she fits in the world. Maggie’s friendship with Dan Sean, the centenarian of Bray, is precious. Intergenerational friendships are always wonderful and eye-opening.
The writing is excellent. Pacing, character development, and authenticity are spot on. The situations are very realistic (alcohol, awkward first sexual encounters, so-so friendships that are better than nothing, arguing with mom, etc.). Nothing is overly rosy or dark. The situation with Uncle Kevin was also handled realistically. Cultural references are accurate and interesting, and Foley’s efforts to capture these details are admirable.
The scenes of Maggie’s sexual encounters are well-written. There is enough detail to get an idea of what is happening, but is not too graphic or crude. I like how the author makes a distinction between a drunken and unsatisfactory sexual experience with Paul in contrast to something more special and consensual with Eoin. Realism and providing a positive model for this “objectionable topic” in the novel are strengths.
Weaknesses: The modern reader may not be accustomed to the social landscape bereft of social media and cell phones. Also, the modern reader may not understand the freedom that young Generation Xers experienced that I believe that most contemporary teens simply cannot imagine. Today’s teens are so hyperconnected to their parents—can a Rochester or St. Cloud teen imagine taking a bus to St. Paul for the day without asking/telling their folks? Maggie tells her folks she is going out for the day with friends and is not specific. She takes a bus to Dublin and is back in time for supper. How will today’s reader respond?
The other weakness is how will this appeal to the male reader? I’m too connected to this book as a female who lived a similar experience to Maggie to really pass judgment on this point. What I did like is that Eoin was true to himself. He wore the soccer jersey and the track pants and not the denim and flannel. He was open to listening to Maggie’s music, but confessed his preference for the traditional music he grew up with. Eoin is a good role model for males. It’s the “stay gold” message; the wisdom of the Oracle “Know Thyself.” I love it. I hope boys will, too.
Special Considerations: The neat feature of this book is the hand-written notes to Maggie from Uncle Kevin, especially “Uncle Kevin’s Reading Recommendations to Keep Young Nieces Off the Streets.” I love how a broken character like Kevin still manages to be a positive influence on his niece. We are all broken and imperfect. It will be good for young readers to contemplate this and see the light and hope Kevin shares despite the darkness of Kevin’s story.
This is a lovely and powerful first novel by Jessie Ann Foley, a top pick for the 9-12 media center. It’s universal themes of love, friendship, and the power of music sheds light on the culture of the recent past.
The Carnival at Bray had all the required content for YA fiction - romance, music, mild sex scenes, dysfunctional family, tragedy and a protagonist who is transported to a place in which she isn't sure she belongs or fits in. Older teens (primarily girls as Jenny pointed out in her review) will connect with the character of Maggie as she struggles to manage all of the issues in her life, often making choices that have unexpected consequences due to her inexperience and age.
Delete“There will be time to do the responsible thing.” This quote stands out as a motto for this coming of age novel. The characters don't always make the best choices and teens will find this edgy aspect of the book appealing. Adults can feel comfortable recommending this read because the characters experience consequences for their choices but the book doesn't come across as scolding or "preachy" to the reader. The life lessons are subtle giving rise to opportunities for contemplation or comparison to the issues in the reader's own life.
I listened to this selection as an audio book and appreciated the various accents used by the reader. It brought a heightened awareness of "place" to the story - Chicago, Bray, Dublin, Rome - that may not have been as noticeable in the written format. Maggie's American accent stood in contrast to the girls at school, the pub patrons, her step-father, Eoin, teachers, even Dan Sean. I found it to add a level of depth to the story that may otherwise go unnoticed.
I'm glad you shared your insights about the audio version. Now having read the book, I would also like to hear it and all the different accents that give the narrative depth and texture. Thanks for sharing, Lori.
Delete"Saint Anything" by Sarah Dessen
ReplyDelete"Saint Anything" by Sarah Dessen is about a teenage girl named Sydney who has always lived in her older brother’s shadow. But now her brother is in jail, her mother only seems to care about him and ignores Sydney, and her dad has completely checked out on the entire family. After her first day at her new high school, Sydney meets the Chatham family. Layla and Mac go to school with her and in their family she finally feels accepted for the first time.
All of Sarah Dessen’s books are contemporary, realistic fiction written for teens featuring real teenagers with real problems. Her characters are never perfect and they deal with issues like real teenagers would. Teen girls will devour Dessen’s twelfth book like they have all of her other novels.
Strengths:
Sarah Dessen knows teenage girls. She captures their “voice” and the dialogue seems very real. She understands how they feel and what matters most to them. This is very true in "Saint Anything." Sydney feels lost and unheard in her own family and when she meets Layla and Mac and their family she finally has people that will listen to her. They see her for her, which is something that she—and many teens—desperately need.
Dessen is excellent at character development. Every character has a unique personality with likes and dislikes. (I will never look at bubble gum or cotton candy DumDums without thinking of Layla!) Her characters feature more types of teens that the stereotypical groups.
Every Sarah Dessen book deals with some sort of family issue and "Saint Anything" is no exception. This one actually comes across a bit darker than most of her work. I feel like she deals with the issues in her books in very realistic ways—there’s no easy answer, no perfect happy ending. In Saint Anything there is guilt, friendship, family, and romance and are dealt with in a very real way. The romance is sweet and not at all a “love at first site” situation.
Weaknesses:
Readers that want action, huge drama, or tragedy may be disappointed. "Saint Anything" is a quiet, realistic story about teens. They deal with issues—drinking, jail, guilt, love, sex, sexual predators, family, etc.—but not in a “shoot ‘em up” kind of way.
The other weakness—which just goes to show you the talent of the author—is that it will make you hungry for French fries and pizza! I think I gained five pounds reading this book!
Verdict: This—and all of Sarah Dessen’s novels—should definitely be considered for your collection for readers who like quiet stories with a little bit of swoon. The great characters, realistic issues, and romance will make Dessen fans very happy and make new readers fans as well.
"I'll Give You The Sun" by Jandy Nelson
ReplyDeleteThe one word that comes to mind when reflecting on this book is: emotional.
"I'll Give You The Sun" is a written in dual-perspective from the main characters whom are twins. Noah tells the story at age 13 and Jude tells the story from age 16 and it flips between the two. The main theme of the story is life, loss, and love: brother- sister, mom- daughter, father- son, mentor- mentee, boy- girl, and boy- boy relationships. The audience was written with grades 9 and up in mind. I would say even grades 7 and up would find this book to be relatable in one way or another.
Strengths:
The characters are complex. It is easy to become emotionally attached to young Noah and Jude. You can find yourself laughing, crying and confused all at the same time. You just want to keep reading to see what happens next. Also the blunt portrayal of teens discovering their sexuality in both a heterosexual girl and a homosexual guy are topics relatable but often not discussed openly with teens.
Weaknesses:
For me the story started out a little slow to connect with the characters and a tad unusual. Within the first few pages a descriptive scene regarding the main characters sexuality is exposed and a spirit from the dead becomes one of the main characters. For me it was a lot to wrap my brain around within the first couple pages. Once I could sort it all out in my mind I was good to go!
Verdict:
This book was a "thinker" and can only be described by me as emotional. It should be considered for your collection for readers dealing with love, loss, and their own sexuality. The characters are so developed that you'll find yourself talking to others about "NoahandJude" like they are your friends.
I added this book to my To-Read list recently, and I moved it up the "stack" once I saw one of my 8th grade struggling readers with it the other day. Now, I look forward to it even more after reading your analysis. Teens tend to love these emotional stories, as do I. It's also interesting that it is told from the POV of twins three years apart, if I have read your notes correctly. I didn't notice that from the jacket. Anyway, this adds an element of difficulty that challenges readers along with the subject matter. Struggling and advanced readers alike need challenging materials that they can also connect with.
ReplyDeleteGenre: Contemporary Fiction
ReplyDeleteBook title: Finding Audrey by Sophie Kinsella
Finding Audrey is Kinsella’s first YA book and it seems to be aimed at middle and high school girls. However, I think the book will more likely appeal to middle school girls and maybe girls in grades 9 or possibly 10, as the protagonist is 14.
Strengths: Finding Audrey gives insight into the mind of someone with clinical anxiety as the main character, Audrey, is forced to deal with debilitating anxiety due to what seems to be several incidents with school friends. As the story goes on, Audrey learns more about herself and her own inner strength with the help of her therapist, and eventually she begins to step outside of her comfort zone. This makes her endearing to the reader and one wants to see her come out of this ok. Overall, Kinsella does a good job of demonstrating one serious effect bullying can have on a victim without becoming too didactic.
Weaknesses: One problem I found with this book is that a romance develops between Audrey and her brother’s friend, who becomes the impetus for Audrey’s jump in her recovery to be a cute boy. Girls need more examples of a female character who wants to make a change for herself rather than for a boy. Another missed opportunity is that the author does not really name the inciting incidents the protagonist endured as bullying. Kinsella could have been a bit more specific about what the girls did to Audrey while still maintaining a balance between teaching and letting the reader come to a logical understanding.
The British slang that gives the story some international appeal and authenticity might confuse or distract less experienced readers, which is not necessarily a weakness and is certainly not a reason to not include this book in a library collection. A positive note about the audio version is that it is told by British actors, so their accents add to that appeal and authenticity mentioned above that helped make it an enjoyable story. On another note regarding language, there is some cursing throughout the story, but it is not overdone, nor does it seem to be out of place or done gratuitously.
Special considerations: Kinsella uses her characters and a subplot between the mother and the brother to demonstrate there is more to life than computer games and teens should be spending time interacting face to face with others.
Finally and most importantly, books that address severe social anxiety and how those afflicted with it work through it are important; such books become the mirror that help teens also dealing with anxiety see they are not alone.
My verdict: Finding Audrey is a lighthearted book dealing with a serious subject that teens will enjoy for the mix of humor and reality, and it will make a good addition to any young adult collection.
I've seen this book around, so I'm glad to hear a review of it. I too am a bit disappointment that a boy stepped in. I'm much happier with a story when that doesn't happen.
DeleteI'm also glad to see a book dealing with anxiety. My son deals with it, so I'm always happy to see it addressed in books.
I deal with anxiety myself and I thought Kinsella handled it well, of course other than the boy element. I do think that it is common that boys do wind up figuring into things, but it would've been nice to see a story of a girl who fights her demons on her own and wins on her own accord.
DeleteGenre: Contemporary Realistic Fiction
ReplyDeleteBook Title: This One Summer by Mariko Tamara
While this is in the Contemporary Realistic Fiction genre, it is also a Graphic Novel and a Comic Book. It is the story of a summer vacation taken each year by two friends, Windy and Rose and their thoughts and feelings about their lives. I think with the two main characters in the book being female, this might not have a strong appeal to male teenagers. I think that this book would appeal to both middle and high school age children, depending on their reading level and maturity. The book is a quick read and this could interest readers who want to read a book in one night.
Two specific strengths of the book are that the story deals with many issues that teens think about including sex, homosexuality, adoption, miscarriage, depression, parents relationships, and body image. Another strength is the blue/grey illustrations that show emotion from one panel to the next. The author is able to convey feelings within these panels and with few words.
One weakness could be that the story is a little depressing as it deals with Rose's mothers depression. The pictures show her as someone who is thin and sickly. Also, there is quite a bit of profanity as the teenagers interact with each other. In addition, when the older boys in town speak to their girlfriends, they call them "sluts" and are joking around about this. One of the characters may be pregnant and the boy refuses to speak to the girl until she goes to the Doctor.
The special considerations of this book is that a young middle school student may find the content is to mature for their liking. In addition, parents may object to the swearing and the specific references to pregnancy.
My verdict: This One Summer is a book to have in your collection that could possibly be for struggling readers as the language is simple(yet profane) and the pictures are descriptive.
I wish I had this book to read when I was moving through that awkward preteen to teen stage. The thing that I love the most about this book is that it gives voice to so many aspects of growing up; struggling with every aspect of life and yet making your way through it all in spite of your confusion and the choices of those around you. I agree with Lynn that these many issues are a strength of the book and that the illustrations help to convey the content in a way that words could not do alone. Overall, the book sends a positive message that teens will survive this awkward stage.
DeleteI have to disagree that a weakness of this book is that it has depressing aspects. While there is no doubt that Alice is suffering from depression, I don't think this is the story line on which younger readers will focus. Rather, I think that younger readers will focus on the subplots of the changing relationship between Rose and Windy and the action of the local teens who hang out at the village store.
I agree that the content may be too mature for some middle school students who can then self-select, knowing that the book will be there for them when they are ready. I would include this book in both a middle school and high school collection.
Lori, I agree and thought this more than once when reading it myself (what you said about wishing you had such a read during the awkward pre-teen stage) : ) I think the depressing aspects being a "weakness" is all about personal preference/ perception. It is real, and sometimes real can be depressing. Some students will like it; some not. Lynn- I like what you added as far as the consideration of being a possible fit for struggling readers. Overall, was not what I would typically pick up to read on my own, but glad I was exposed to it in my effort to broaden my reading horizons.
DeleteAll American Boys by Jason Reynolds and Brendan Kiely
ReplyDeleteGrades 7 and up--
As cliche as "ripped from the headlines" sounds, this book is just that. And it is excellent. I cannot say enough positive things about this novel. The story of a brutal interaction between a police officer and a teenager is told through the eyes of two boys: one black, one white. One is a witness, the other a victim. I couldn't take myself away from this book. It followed me for weeks after I put it down in the same way news of similar stories has haunted us in recent years. I do not want to give too much away, but I think this fictionalized version of an all-too-familiar tale is absolutely worth the time, teens and adults alike.
Although the intended audience may be teenagers, I think this book could appeal to a variety of individuals young and old, teens and those who parent or work with them. The strength of the book comes in its rawness and realistic portrayal of recent events. It also shows multiple perspectives which is crucial for addressing such a difficult issue. The only weakness I noticed was the lack of female characters, but this issue does more often affect young males, so it is understandable that they played smaller roles.
VERDICT: This book is a must-have for all middle (7+) and high schools. Its relevance and quality create that rare book that has the potential to build bridges.
Awards: Coretta Scott King, 2016
Oh this book was so good! I think it was a great read and am looking forward to sharing it with my boys when they get a bit older. There is so much in that story that my kids have never seen or even heard of. We are not very diverse in our town, but they do not understand why people get treated differently based on skin color. Great book, definite must have in a school library!
DeleteBased on comments about this book during class, I downloaded it so I could listen on my drive to and from my radiation treatments. I convinced the whole radiation team to read it.
DeleteThe story told from two perspectives and slowly coming together is masterful - a literary zipper effect. Young readers will appreciate hearing from both boys and watching their stories unfold and eventually come to the same conclusion.
The audio book was read by two different people which called attention to the distinctly different perspectives.
Genre: Contemporary Realistic Fiction
ReplyDeleteBook Title: Me, Earl and the Dying Girl
The target audience for this book is clearly high school and older. While there may be younger teens drawn to the book for its cool covers, and knowing that it was made into an award-winning movie, it is loaded with adult themes and language, drug use and family violence. The main character talks to the audience, and insults himself and the writing quality of the book frequently, which is meant to be endearing but comes across as annoying.
The strengths of the book are in its experimental nature; all rules of text, style, grammar and logic are broken. The author is also a screenwriter, and uses many of his screenplay techniques in the text of the book. Another strength of the book is in the fascinating secondary character of Earl. He has a rough home life, yet is wise and funny and smart, and keeps the story moving along with his witty comments.
The weaknesses of this book are similar to those of Seventeenth Summer, in that there is no overarching message or universal truth to be learned. Also similarly, the protagonist Greg and the "dying girl" Rachel are not very interesting characters. And while Greg elaborates to a vulgar extent about dating and sex and boobs, there are isn't any actual dating relationship in the book itself, which can be misleading to readers who were expecting a cancer/love story like The Fault in Our Stars.
Special considerations are that the protagonist Greg frequently talks to the reader, which students will find both self-deprecating and also endearing. Also, the book includes an interview with the author. Lastly, the book has been made into a movie, which would be interesting as a book-to-movie comparison assignment.
Verdict: Lack of literary "meat", combined with adult themes and drug references, lend the book toward a mature high school audience. Not appropriate for middle school.
That's what I'm doing for my book/movie comparison...I'm hoping it's at least quick!?
DeleteIt was a fairly quick read for me. The screenplay format lends itself to quick page turning.
DeleteGenre: Realistic Fiction
ReplyDeleteBook Title: The Fault in Our Stars
Grades: 9-12
Strengths: This book is written from the perspective of the protagonist, Hazel Ann, who is 16 years old and terminally ill with cancer. Hazel is relatable in both her day-to-day struggles of being a teenage girl and her relationships with both friends and family. Hazel's relationship with fellow cancer survivor, Augustus, is endearing. The support they are able to offer each other and the questions they face, at to their future, are realistic. The story hooks readers instantly and is a story of love, loss, friendship and survival. Students will also be able to connect with this book since it has been made into a movie.
Weaknesses: Both Hazel and Augustus travel to Amsterdam to meet a respected author. Their travel and independence, considered a "cancer benefit," seems some what unbelievable. Underage sex and drinking take place but are not heavily focused upon.
Verdict: Although written at an upper 5th grade level, this book is more appropriately geared towards 9-12th grade students. The topic of death and dealings of cancer can be difficult for a younger audience. The book is well written in the ways that it comes full circle and has relatable characters.
I'm so surprised this is an upper 5th grade reading level. Wow! The language/vocabulary used was quite mature. I loved this book so very much. I chose it for the book/movie challenge, and couldn't put it down. I felt so much emotion and such a connection to the characters and the story. While I don't think many kids can relate to the cancer piece, they can relate to teenage love, angst, and pain. This was such an awesome book!
DeleteI do have a ton of 5th graders who check it out and love it, although I warn them often that it is a mature book, with lots of swearing, sexual references and big words that they may not understand. They continue to return it with rave reviews, despite the depressing nature of the content.
DeleteI think it can go younger too. Definitely middle school.
DeleteI worked at a high school where all 10th grade English classes read this book. Then all the 10th grade boys came into the library looking for other John Green books! It was a good way to hook those boys.
I think the appropriateness of this books depends not on grade level, but on interest and maturity level. Readers can connect with this book not only by ready but by viewing the movie, which I think is very well done. The movie provokes a lot of emotion, much more so than the book. The movie moves quickly, whereas the book, you can put down and think about what just happened.
DeleteDumplin' by Julie Murphey
ReplyDeleteWillowdean (Dumplin' to her mom) has always been a big girl but one that has been comfortable in her own skin - or so she thought. When a boy shows interest in her it causes her to doubt how she's always felt. To try and overcome it she enters the town long running beauty pageant that her mom runs and organizes.
With so much talk in the media these days about unrealistic body images, body shaming and being ok with who you are this book will speak to a lot of teenage girls. They will connect to Willowdean and her struggles to really truly accept who she is. It doesn't shy away from the reality of high school life. Willow, as well as other characters be becomes friends with, is bullied. Plus it doesn't shy away from typical teenage happenings such as sex, drinking and lying to parents. Although none is overly emphasized.
Strengths: Although this book could easily fall into the cliche of big girl takes on the pretty girl pageant (which she does), it goes far beyond that. The pagent she enters is a secondary even during much of the story. Instead it looks at friendship, loss of loved ones, learning how to be you in a world that tells you you aren't good enough, and how to accept others for who they truly are - including your own parents. Willowdean starts strong but struggles a lot and watching that will teach readers how to keep going and learning.
Weakness: Not many. I wish their had been more with Willow's aunt that died - it was touched on and she struggled with it, but I wish their had been more closure to it. This is also true for her relationship with her mother. I wanted more clear change. You can tell it started, but I wanted more. The handling of both of these situations was realistic though. We don't always get closure in that short of time. Real-life needs time.
Final verdict: A strong book about loving yourself, accepting others and knowing when to fight.
Can I just add here since I didn't think it sounded ok in a "formal" review. I adored this book and I adored Willowdean. Absolutely adored her!
DeletePaper Towns by John Green
ReplyDeleteSchool Library Journal states that the book would be for grades 9 and up. I would also agree that this books will appeal to that age level as well.
The particular strengths of this book lie in the humor of the opening chapters. Margo and Quentin go on a journey to "Right some wrongs" and "Wrong some rights." It is quite funny when the two break into a bully's home and used Nair to remove one of his eyebrows. The journey continues with several other hijinks, including breaking into Sea World. I actually watched the movie last night as well. The movie did a horrible job at bringing out the humor of these scenes.
It's hard to find a weakness in this book. I felt is was very well-written and enjoyable. Some middle school parents may find this book to be a little mature for their children. Hence the grades 9 and up designation.
You will find it difficult to believe that Quentin is the only person worried about Margo.
Verdict: The book flows very well. John Green does a fabulous job of mixing funny and serious moments. You will find yourself cheering on Quentin and telling him not to end up with Margo. Read the book and skip the movie.
Grades (mature 8th) and up--
ReplyDeleteTo the loners, who feel they can do no right and feel awkward wherever they find themselves: read this book. To the popular kids, who everyone thinks fit in everywhere, but aren't sure themselves: read this book. To the little sister who hates being compared to her older brother and the older brother who wishes he could be as innocent as his younger sister; read this book.
Whoever you are, read this book.
I'll Give You the Sun is the story of Noah and Jude, twins who have always been extremely close but as teenagers suddenly find themselves ripped apart by the secrets they aren't willing to share.
The story goes back and forth between their voices-Noah, who has started to have "left out butter" feelings for the boy next door and is constantly painting in his head, and his sister Jude, the more verbose, wilder, surfer.
I fell in love with Noah immediately because he shared his "Invisible Museum" of paintings that gave mei nsight no other character was privy to. And then I loved Jude, for her (sometimes unwanted, but always present) protection of her brother and her desire to live her life out loud.
The raw emotion of the characters plus the quirky, yet beautiful writing style of Jandy Nelson that blurs the line between figurative and literal language made me long for the end of the day when I could snuggle up with these characters and hear more of their story.
VERDICT: This book should absolutely grace the shelves (and displays!) of all high school media centers. The characters are relatable, genuine and also realistically flawed. Given some of the language and sexual references, I would say it would be less appropriate in a middle school setting, but it could be the right fit for the right kid...
Grades 7 and up--
ReplyDeleteYaqui Delgado Wants to Kick Your Ass is both the title and the first line of this intensely true and moving novel about Piddy Sanchez, her relentless bully and everything else in between.
Intended audience: Middle school and high school students of all races, religions, genders and socioeconomic situations. Note: I feel very confident with these specifics as I heard them from Meg Medina herself at the NCTE conference.
Audience to whom it may appeal: I think this book has the potential to read a vast audience of all people 12 and up. The age old tale of the bully who picks on those smaller and destroys everything in her/his way has been updated for a modern, technological age and this time it’s with girls. I found Piddy’s story to be extremely foreboding, yet brutally honest and accurate to my experience teaching young people.
Strengths: Meg Medina has done her research. The interactions between the characters are so realistic and relatable and the modern references are spot on. The characters are well constructed and interesting and the novel doesn’t resolve itself in a neat little bow, which I found refreshing.
Weaknesses: There were a few sexual references that I found took away from the overall style of the novel, and the prose is more straightforward than poetic, but these were well outweighed by strengths.
Special considerations: This book has great potential as a resource in an anti-bullying program as young as middle school. I think the fact that story revolves around a lower-class Latina, also provides great fodder for discussion about gender and cultural stereotypes.
VERDICT: Yes, your library should have this book. Yes, my library should have this book. Middle school and high school libraries should stock at least 5 copies of this book at any given time. A great opportunity for a small group of kids to read it together or a few teachers to check it out and do it as a read aloud. This is a story that needs to be told and this book is the perfect way to tell it.
I felt the opposite about the sexual references. I thought that they fit in with the story quite well.
DeleteGrades 9 and up--
ReplyDeleteMe and Earl and the Dying Girl by Jesse Andrews tells the story of Greg an amateur film maker who is stuck (yes, that’s how he describes it) making frequent hospital visits to girl from his school who’s recently been diagnosed with leukemia. Witty and awkwardly funny in many parts, crude and inexplicable in others, I’m still working out my emotional response to this book.
Intended audience: Being that this has got to be one of the strangest books i’ve ever experienced (it was definitely more than a read, it was an experience), I am not 100% sure I know the audience for whom it was intended, but I think high school boys. Girls may have been considered, but definitely not as the core audience.
Audience to whom it may appeal: I can see this book appealing to both high school age boys and girls, and perhaps also the 18-25 range for young men. Though this might be stereotypical (okay, it’s flat out stereotypical), I found a lot of the humor quite crude and a bit offensive and feel other females might have a similar reaction.
Strengths: The unique structure of the book as a film script makes for a quick and interesting read. It is also written in the second person, where the narrator speaks directly to the reader, which has an odd effect. I liked that it was different than many YA novels I’ve read in that regard.
Weaknesses: Like I mentioned previously, the crude humor could be taken down a notch for a more universal readership, and the young narrator is extremely self-deprecating throughout the entire book, which I believe sends a negative message to young creative minds. There is also quite a bit of potty humor and a plethora of curse words with no limit on F-bombs.
Special considerations: This book was made into a movie, which I have yet to review.
VERDICT: I think the unique format of the book and the fact that it has been made into a movie, make this a book with few competitors in its vein. That said, I think a single copy of this book would suffice in a high school library. Though it might offend the first few who page through it, given the right student, a real connection could be made. And that’s the ultimate goal, right?
Touching Spirit Bear by Ben Mikaelsen
ReplyDeleteTouching Spirit Bear follows the journey of Cole Matthews, a troubled teen whose string of poor decisions has left him facing a possible long-term incarceration. The final straw is his violent assault of a classmate, Peter. As a result, Cole participates, albeit reluctantly, in “Circle Justice,” a form of restorative justice involving community members, friends, family, and other advocates for Cole as well as those advocating for Peter. Circle Justice aims to heal both parties, with the ultimate goal of recovery, if not physically then emotionally and spiritually.
Through this process, there is very little evidence that Cole has had a change of heart—or any intention to change. As a last-ditch effort, he is basically “banished” to live on an island, with very few resources provided, and fend for himself. He does have the support of Garvey, his parole officer and Tlingit Indian, and Edwin, a Tlingit elder, both whom who still have their doubts about Cole’s ability to change. As a result of their own pasts and experience with healing old wounds, however, they want to help Cole complete his own journey toward healing.
Intended audience: Touching Spirit Bear is written for middle school to early high school aged students.
To whom would this book appeal? This book would appeal to a very wide audience. Upper elementary age would be fitting all the way through adults. It would appeal to anyone interested in nature, outdoors, adventure, mental health, addiction, forgiveness, healing, and beyond. It is an adventure story of sorts with a meaningful message behind it.
Weaknesses of the book:
Cole’s relationship with his father is not fully explored in the book. Many readers would say that this relationship is one of the main reasons Cole acts out and has found himself in this situation. Though the relationship is referenced often in the book and Cole’s dad is part of the story, there is room for a more in depth study of this relationship-- tying it to Cole’s journey more closely. The portrayal of the relationship is a bit “shallow” in some ways and is somewhat glossed over at the end of the book.
While the attack by the spirit bear is most definitely an integral part of the story, readers do need to suspend their disbelief to some degree. The fact that Cole could survive such a brutal attack with relatively minimal long-term effects may seem a bit of a stretch.
Strengths of the book:
Touching Spirit Bear explores some heavy issues in a way that is appropriate for younger teens. The fact that action and suspense are intertwined with the heavier elements of the story makes it a good fit for readers of many ability levels and appeals to a wide variety of audiences.
This book can be a springboard for discussions on empathy, decision-making, forgiveness, and long-term consequences of our choices. This book would likely appeal to reluctant readers, or even those who experience behavior issues and may find a connection with the character of Cole.
Special considerations:
Many links and references to Native American culture are discussed in the book, including Circle Justice.
The book addresses themes of abuse, alcoholism, divorce, and violence. While they are handled in an age-appropriate way, some readers may be particularly sensitive to these topics.
Some readers may find the bear attack passage somewhat graphic.
Verdict:
I would definitely include this work in both a middle school and high school library. It appeals to a wide audience and is suitable for both independent reading and whole class reading accompanied by an instructional component.
The Last Time We Say Goodbye by Cynthia Hand
ReplyDeleteGenre: Realistic Contemporary Fiction
Pages: 400
Published: February 10, 2015 by HarperTeen
Lexie Riggs is a high school senior whose younger brother, Tyler, has committed suicide. After Tyler’s funeral, she begins to distance herself from her friends, breaks up with her boyfriend, and struggles through her grief alone. She cannot get over the feeling that she could have prevented Tyler’s suicide if she would have just replied to his last text. Her parents are also divorced. She and her brother live with their mother. It was a really nasty divorce and is one of the factors that feeds into Tyler’s suicide. This story is one of overcoming grief and facing it’s physical and emotional effects.
Audience:
This book targets a high school reading audience, especially since the characters are right in that age range. It could arguably be expanded to upper middle school and even college students. The theme of grief, suicide, and brokenness would definitely transfer and stay relatable.
Strengths:
The Last Time We Say Goodbye is written as a diary that Lexie is writing to fulfill an exercise for her therapist. This method of writing gives her grief and coping a very personal touch. The buildup of characters is also a strong point. Lexie is a math whiz and hangs out with a smart bunch of kids. Cynthia Hand inserts tidbits of geekiness into the story that relate to Lexie and her friends. Lexie has an interesting relationship with each of her parents. She is living with a mother that has lost her son, and yet turns a blind eye to her daughter’s grief of losing a brother. Her father is living with another woman and Lexie cannot reconcile her relationship with him, especially because Tyler had hated him so much after he left. Lastly, Lexie is a positive role model and the story has a positive message.
Weaknesses:
Suicide is a very emotional and controversial topic, especially for younger readers. Some readers may choose to not read this book based on their comfort level with teen suicide. This is also not a book for students who cannot stick through a longer plot buildup. The story starts with a bang, but gets tangled up in story tangents along the way.
Special Considerations:
Swear words are used in the book, but not very frequently. Lexie actually writes about how her and Tyler feel awkward swearing so they don’t do it much. Because of that, the scenes where she does swear are intensified. There are references to the use of pharmaceutical drugs: Tyler’s first attempt at suicide is with Advil, the therapist offers Lexie Xanax as a solution for her grief, Lexie’s mother takes Valium to get to sleep and offers it to Lexie as well.
Verdict:
This is a great book about how to cope with suicide, but also about how to cope with any kind of loss. The characters are real and so are the issues they deal with. Readers of Cynthia Hands fantasy series Unearthly might even consider stepping outside their favorite genre for this book. Definitely consider having this in a high school collection.
This is a book that would appeal to strong readers. I agree that it is a high school book. However since I have a mixed middle/high school library it would be in both libraries.
Deleteeleanor and park by Rainbow Rowell
ReplyDeleteWhen the new girl walks on the bus, nobody wants her to sit with them, but Park's seat is the only one open. Their silent bus partnership slowly grows into a friendship, as they share comics and music, and before they know it, romance blooms. But Eleanor comes from a large, poor family, and her abusive stepfather has already kicked her out once for minor indiscretions. How can love survive in this minefield of home and school?
Audience: This book is a great read for mature young adults, especially high-school students. It also reaches out of the young adult genre and can attract older audiences, although more conservative parties may be off-put by some occasional colorful language.
Strengths: In addition to narrating this novel flawlessly between two viewpoints, Rainbow Rowell manages to create characters that nearly everyone can relate to. She addresses important topics in ways both subtle and direct: racism, obesity, abuse, poverty and sexuality barely scratch the surface. Each topic comes out with authenticity and strength, and they reflect the lives of so many of today's students.
Weaknesses: This book has received challenges, most notably in Minnesota's Anoka-Hennepin school district, due to the language used, hot-button issues, and sexual content However, each of these can be also viewed as a strength, as the portrayal of each is honest and helps the novel accurately depict teenage culture.
Special Considerations: This book has been recently and publicly challenged in Minnesota, and may be fresh in the minds of many parents. However, the manner in which this book carries heavy and painful topics makes it invaluable. IF the content in this relateable novel reaches out and makes an impact on even one student, it is worth it.
Verdict: This book is a must-have for your highschool collection. Eleanor and Park will speak to any student who picks up this novel.
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ReplyDeleteTitle: Beneath a Meth Moon
ReplyDeleteBy: Jacqueline Woodson
Age recommendation: 12 and up
Audience to whom it will appeal: older teens; anyone who has known or dealt with addiction
Strengths of Book: Woodson captures the main character, Laurel’s, descent into meth use. She skillfully and beautifully captures the hurts of drug addiction, loss, runaways, homelessness, and death. The story is told in present and in flashback which traces Laurel’s journey from surviving Hurricane Katrina, moving to a new town, making new friends and the cheerleading squad, and dating the captain of the basketball team. The story easily draws readers in based on the author’s honesty in Laurel’s journey and on the desire to see Laurel survive.
Weaknesses of Book: I found it difficult to find weaknesses in this book.
Special Considerations: Award winner for YALSA Quick Picks for Reluctant Young Adult Readers, YALSA Best Fiction for Young Adults. Another warning for the book is the subject matter is mature: drug use, addiction, physical relationships, homosexuality, teen runaways, slight violence, and homelessness.
Verdict: This book is questionable due to subject matter and was first brought to my attention by one of my paras. When we were discussing challenged books, she said this book was questioned in the past as to why it was in the media center. I read it and decided that I would keep it in the media center due to the exceptional writing and handling of difficult topics that sadly many teens face.