BIBLIOGRAPHY
Kinney, Jeff. 2007. DIARY OF A WIMPY KID: A Novel in Cartoons. New York: Amulet Books. ISBN: 9780810993136
PLOT SUMMARY
Greg Heffley makes it clear that he is keeping a JOURNAL, not writing a DIARY, on the first page of his book, DIARY OF A WIMPY KID. He is not writing because his mom insists, he is writing because when he is rich and famous it will save him a lot of time answering questions about his youth! He is a middle school “kid” who hasn’t reached his growth spurt yet. He considers himself 52nd or 53rd on the popularity kid list, but his best friend, Rowley, is “hovering” about the 150 mark. Greg has an older brother, Roderick, who plays in a heavy metal band called the Loaded Diaper, and Roderick's greatest thrill in life is to humiliate his younger brother. Greg also has a younger brother, Manny, who get just about anything he wants. Greg’s mom is a bit of an enabler and his dad, Frank, thinks Greg needs to spend more time outdoors playing sports and less time inside playing video games. Greg IS a rather intelligent kid, although an underachiever. He is in the reading group in middle school that holds their books "right-side up."
This book, like Kinney’s other Diary books, is written just as if it were a journal, on drawn lines on the page. The cartoon drawings that accompany the text are very humorous. The reader actually gets an idea of what the characters look like and speech bubbles add to the fun. More than a “plot” the Diary books share day-to-day circumstances much like a diary would. We do find out about the characters in Greg’s home and his friends based on his first person discussions and cartoon-like illustrations.
For example, on Halloween Greg and Rowley were headed out to break their candy collecting record when Greg’s mom insisted they take his little brother, Manny, with them. When Greg complained and explained their plans, Mom insisted Dad tag along, (ruining their plans) to keep the boys in the neighborhood. When the teenagers finally ditched Dad, they were pranked by a car load of high school kids and returned to Greg’s grandmother’s house for safety, even though she was fast asleep. When a phone call home demanded the boys come home “immediately,” they snuck through the backyard and hid behind bushes to escape from the awaiting villains. Greg noticed the next day on the bus that Grandma’s house was rolled with toilet paper. He “felt a little bad…but on the bright side, Gramma is retired, so she probably didn’t have anything planned for today anyway.”
Readers are enlightened about the wrestling unit in PE, the class play, a most disappointing Christmas, safety patrol adventures, and try outs for the cartoonist job at the school paper.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS
The DIARY OF A WIMPY KID series is just fun and funny. After reading the first book and getting to know the characters, I had to read the rest of the series. The thoughts in Greg’s head are hilarious. His thoughts are not far off from what kids this age really think and are concerned about, which makes the protagonist endearing to an adult reading the text. A child reading the book(s) is sure to relate on some measure to the events that happen to Greg, (through no fault of his own, of course).
Not many boys grow up escaping issues with an overprotective mom and a dad that wants to live out his dreams through his son. If the reader has older or younger siblings, he or she is sure to relate to the harassing of the older one and the spoiling of the youngest. Greg explains his feelings in ways that take this reader back to her childhood and remember curfews getting later and later for younger siblings.
The text on the page along with the cartoon-like figures is brilliant. THE DIARY OF A WIMPY KID is easy to read, funny, and approachable. It is perfect for reluctant readers who see a page of print in a chapter book and panic. The stories are engaging and cause the reader to laugh out loud. The first person narrative is written just like Greg would think. This style draws the reader in and makes Greg seem almost like a real friend. We root for him. We worry about him. We commiserate with him. We feel his pain. We want him to succeed, even though we know it is doubtful, at best. Even if he did succeed, it would probably not be for long. This IS the life of a teenager. Even the most popular ones are vulnerable. Though our protagonist is a little on the ornery side, we are on his side.
REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
Publishers Weekly (Starred Review) - Kinney's popular Web comic, which began in 2004, makes its way to print as a laugh-out-loud "novel in cartoons," adapted from the series. His print debut should keep readers in stitches, eagerly anticipating Greg's further adventures.
School Library Journal - Greg Heffley has actually been on the scene for more than two years. Created by an online game developer, he has starred in a Web book of the same name on www.funbrain.com since May 2004. This print version is just as engaging. Kinney does a masterful job of making the mundane life of boys on the brink of adolescence hilarious. Kinney's background as a cartoonist is apparent in this hybrid book that falls somewhere between traditional prose and graphic novel. It offers some of the same adventures as the Web book, but there are enough new subplots to entertain Funbrain followers. This version is more pared down, and the pace moves quickly. The first of three installments, it is an excellent choice for reluctant readers, but more experienced readers will also find much to enjoy and relate to in one seventh grader's view of the everyday trials and tribulations of middle school
Booklist - The first year in the middle-school life of Greg Heffley is chronicled in this laugh-out-loud novel that first appeared on the Internet. Greg tells his story in a series of short, episodic chapters. Most revolve around the adolescent male curse: the need to do incredibly dumb things because they seem to be a good idea at the time. Yet, unlike some other books about kids of this age, there's no sense of a slightly condescending adult writer behind the main character. At every moment, Greg seems real, and the engrossed reader will even occasionally see the logic in some of his choices. Greatly adding to the humor are Kinney's cartoons, which appear on every page. The simple line drawings perfectly capture archetypes of growing up, such as a preschool-age little brother, out-of-touch teachers, and an assortment of class nerds. Lots of fun throughout.
VOYA - Kinney provides readers with a realistic view of middle school life as seen through the eyes of the entertaining but not very bright class clown. Readers can expect lots of middle school humor and exaggeration. Kinney manages to inject enough humor in the simple drawings to make them an integral element in the book. Because Kinney began his Wimpy Kid adventures on a Web site, many middle schoolers already familiar with the character will ensure a ready audience for this print version.
CONNECTIONS
I have the most personal connection of all. The DIARY OF A WIMPY KID series is the first chapter books my then nine year old grandson would pick up. He read them over and over and then listened to the audiobooks and laughed all over again. When a part was coming up he remembered reading he would chirp, “Grandma, listen to this. It’s really funny!” What greater reason could I have to like a book?
A reluctant reader is likely to at least pick up these books and attempt to read them. I would definitely make them available in my classroom and read part of one out loud. Every child, especially reluctant male readers, deserves books in the classroom they can read and identify with.
Have the students keep their own journals (diary) and write their own thoughts and experiences down on paper. It wouldn't pass for the writing process, but it could sure be considered a writing journal to gather ideas from.
Have children visit the website of Jeff Kinney to read his biography and other beloved authors.
Have the audiobook versions of the DIARY OF A WIMPY KID series available for students to listen to. The voice of the narrator, Ramon de Ocampo, perfectly matches Greg's voice.
Have the students work in small groups and write a Reader’s Theater script to one of Greg’s adventures and “perform” it in front of the class.
Have the students make a different book jacket for the DIARY OF A WIMPY KID with a short summary and review on the inside flaps.
Provide opportunities for students to visit author and other fun sites that promote reading like http://www.funbrain.com.
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Friday, July 23, 2010
THE FIRST PART LAST
1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Johnson, Angela. THE FIRST PART LAST. 2003. New York: Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing. ISBN 0689849222
2. PLOT SUMMARY
Bobby, the main character in THE FIRST PART LAST speaking in first person, tells the story of his journey to and through fatherhood at age 16. He and his beloved girlfriend, Nia, discover she is pregnant and using alternating chapters “Then” and “Now” take the reader back and forth to a time before Feather is born and then after. Bobby and Nia, a middle class couple, struggle through the pregnancy together. Tragedy strikes during delivery and Nia’s eclampsia sends her into a coma and complications results in brain damage. Bobby opts out of adoption, a decision that was made when Nia was pregnant with Feather, and decides to raise the infant on his own. With little help from Nia's parents or his own, he describes the joy and tremendous hardship of raising a child alone.
At the end of the book Bobby makes a big decision he believes is best for his child. He leaves his school, friends, parents and the city he loves and moves to a city named Heaven to be near his supportive brother, a father of two children himself.
3. CRITICAL REVIEW
Angela Johnson paints a realistic picture of the hardships of an unplanned teenage pregnancy and its aftermath. Her choice of first person is a good one as the reader empathizes with the feelings of a young boy living with challenges too hard for his young age. A bad choice (unprotected sex) forever alters his life, his child’s, the child’s mother, Nia, and his friends and family. Although the love he feels for his daughter, Feather, is never challenged, the hardship of parenting a child while still being a child is evident. Bobby misses his life before the “big mistake” but his responsibility and devotion to Feather take priority. He regrets not using good common sense when it comes to sex, but he does not regret having Feather, feelings very confusing and frustrating at times. “Things have to change…I figure if the world were really right, humans would live life backward and do the first part last (p. 4).”
Johnson writes beautifully, almost like prose. The last words in her chapters compel the reader to read “just one more.” Although this book is not long, it packs a lot of punch. Johnson puts a lot of feeling into few words. “…I always kiss her, my baby, and look into her clear eyes that know everything about me, and want me to be her daddy anyway (p. 81).”
The reader is not privy to the reason Bobby is raising Feather alone until the end of the book. There we understand Nia has complications during pregnancy that send her into an everlasting coma. Throughout the book the reader wonders, why is this young boy raising a child alone? Where is the mother? When we discover Bobby made a life changing decision to raise his child alone instead of opting for adoption, all the pieces fall together and we understand the situation.
Johnson does not glorify teenage pregnancy at all. But she does have the reader understand that there are teenagers in the world who can act mature and responsibly in the face of life altering challenges. Bobby does not leave Nia during her pregnancy. They make decisions together.
Although Johnson realistically portrays teenage thoughts and feelings, their circumstances force them to grow up fast. It is obvious their decision to have unprotected sex results in what should be carefree times and fun into anxiety, fear, regrets, responsibility and hard, hard decisions. Johnson accomplishes this with tender realistic writing. She is not preachy. She portrays a young man who simply owns up to his responsibilities in life, even those decisions that change his live forever
In fact if I were to choose a theme for this book, it would be changes in life in light of decisions made (in this case unprotected sex when both parties know the potential consequences.). Johnson speaks often of the changes the action of Nia and Bobby had on many lives, not just their own. Bobby’s whole life changes. Nia’s whole life changes. Nothing is the same anymore.
The author develops her characters well. The reader knows just enough about them to feel their feelings, especially Bobby’s and Nia’s. We get to know Bobby’s parents as well as Nia’s. We also feel comfortable with K-Boy and J.L., Bobby’s best friends. The reader knows where each character stands in relation to Bobby and Nia’s circumstances.
There were unanswered questions and gaps in the story for me. As close as Nia and Bobby were, I did not sense a great feeling of loss when Nia lapsed into a coma. I was not sure why Bobby chose to leave the city and his devoted friends to live in Heaven. Bobby’s lapse into irresponsibility when he created “street art” on the brick wall did not make sense to me. I also wondered how Bobby supported Feather.
Even though I had these looming questions, this is a great read for young adolescents. The characters in this novel delve into actions that could happen to the reader. Although teenagers are forever being told the consequences of unprotected sex, little seems to sink in. They seem to be of the mindset, “But that won’t happen to me.” Johnson realistically “shows” not only that it could, but what it might look like if it did.
4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
School Library Journal - Brief, poetic, and absolutely riveting, this gem of a novel tells the story of a young father struggling to raise an infant. The attractive cover photo of a young black man cradling an infant will attract readers.
Booklist (Starred Review) - There's no romanticizing. The exhaustion is real… But from the first page, readers feel the physical reality of Bobby's new world: what it's like to hold Feather on his stomach, smell her skin, touch her clenched fists, feel her shiver, and kiss the top of her curly head. Johnson makes poetry with the simplest words in short, spare sentences that teens will read again and again. The great cover photo shows the strong African American teen holding his tiny baby in his arms.
Publishers Weekly - (Starred Review) - As the past and present threads join in the final chapter, readers will only clamor for more about this memorable father-daughter duo — and an author who so skillfully relates the hope in the midst of pain.
Kirkus Reviews - By narrating from a realistic first-person voice, Johnson manages to convey a story that is always complex, never preachy. The somewhat pat ending doesn't diminish the impact of this short, involving story. It's the tale of one young man and his choices, which many young readers will appreciate and enjoy.
Winner of the 2004 Michael L. Printz Award for Excellence in Literature for Young Adults
Johnson is the winner of the 2004 Coretta Scott King Award for Best African-American Children's Writer
YALSA 2004 – One of the top ten best books for young adults.
5. CONNECTIONS
I had a personal connection to this story. My daughter had a baby when she was a junior in high school. Unlike Bobby’s mother, my husband and I gave Hope all of our support because Austin’s father left Hope the instant he found out she was pregnant. While reading this book, I had immense respect for Johnson’s main characters. Not all fathers walk away. I think of how much different Austin’s life would have been had his father stayed. It’s also realistic to say that a situation does change every facet of life in the teenagers and their family’s lives. I think it’s wonderful to think that there are young men who embrace the consequences of their actions – step up to the plate, so to speak. Little Feather seemed real to me, giving concrete proof that background knowledge will impact how readers read.
Have a discussion about how Bobby's decisions were shaped by his new role as a single dad at such a young age. How might his life have been different?
When Bobby became a single dad, how did the relationship he had with his friends change?
Think of other actions made in an impulsive moment can change one’s life.
Angela wrote a novel previous to THE LAST PART FIRST titled HEAVEN, a Coretta Scott King award winner. Readers may enjoy reading both of these novels.
Have the students write in letter or journal entry about what their daily life entails and how it would change if they had an infant depending on them for their very existence. Do the students think Bobby made the right decision to keep Feather? Why or why not?
Johnson, Angela. THE FIRST PART LAST. 2003. New York: Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing. ISBN 0689849222
2. PLOT SUMMARY
Bobby, the main character in THE FIRST PART LAST speaking in first person, tells the story of his journey to and through fatherhood at age 16. He and his beloved girlfriend, Nia, discover she is pregnant and using alternating chapters “Then” and “Now” take the reader back and forth to a time before Feather is born and then after. Bobby and Nia, a middle class couple, struggle through the pregnancy together. Tragedy strikes during delivery and Nia’s eclampsia sends her into a coma and complications results in brain damage. Bobby opts out of adoption, a decision that was made when Nia was pregnant with Feather, and decides to raise the infant on his own. With little help from Nia's parents or his own, he describes the joy and tremendous hardship of raising a child alone.
At the end of the book Bobby makes a big decision he believes is best for his child. He leaves his school, friends, parents and the city he loves and moves to a city named Heaven to be near his supportive brother, a father of two children himself.
3. CRITICAL REVIEW
Angela Johnson paints a realistic picture of the hardships of an unplanned teenage pregnancy and its aftermath. Her choice of first person is a good one as the reader empathizes with the feelings of a young boy living with challenges too hard for his young age. A bad choice (unprotected sex) forever alters his life, his child’s, the child’s mother, Nia, and his friends and family. Although the love he feels for his daughter, Feather, is never challenged, the hardship of parenting a child while still being a child is evident. Bobby misses his life before the “big mistake” but his responsibility and devotion to Feather take priority. He regrets not using good common sense when it comes to sex, but he does not regret having Feather, feelings very confusing and frustrating at times. “Things have to change…I figure if the world were really right, humans would live life backward and do the first part last (p. 4).”
Johnson writes beautifully, almost like prose. The last words in her chapters compel the reader to read “just one more.” Although this book is not long, it packs a lot of punch. Johnson puts a lot of feeling into few words. “…I always kiss her, my baby, and look into her clear eyes that know everything about me, and want me to be her daddy anyway (p. 81).”
The reader is not privy to the reason Bobby is raising Feather alone until the end of the book. There we understand Nia has complications during pregnancy that send her into an everlasting coma. Throughout the book the reader wonders, why is this young boy raising a child alone? Where is the mother? When we discover Bobby made a life changing decision to raise his child alone instead of opting for adoption, all the pieces fall together and we understand the situation.
Johnson does not glorify teenage pregnancy at all. But she does have the reader understand that there are teenagers in the world who can act mature and responsibly in the face of life altering challenges. Bobby does not leave Nia during her pregnancy. They make decisions together.
Although Johnson realistically portrays teenage thoughts and feelings, their circumstances force them to grow up fast. It is obvious their decision to have unprotected sex results in what should be carefree times and fun into anxiety, fear, regrets, responsibility and hard, hard decisions. Johnson accomplishes this with tender realistic writing. She is not preachy. She portrays a young man who simply owns up to his responsibilities in life, even those decisions that change his live forever
In fact if I were to choose a theme for this book, it would be changes in life in light of decisions made (in this case unprotected sex when both parties know the potential consequences.). Johnson speaks often of the changes the action of Nia and Bobby had on many lives, not just their own. Bobby’s whole life changes. Nia’s whole life changes. Nothing is the same anymore.
The author develops her characters well. The reader knows just enough about them to feel their feelings, especially Bobby’s and Nia’s. We get to know Bobby’s parents as well as Nia’s. We also feel comfortable with K-Boy and J.L., Bobby’s best friends. The reader knows where each character stands in relation to Bobby and Nia’s circumstances.
There were unanswered questions and gaps in the story for me. As close as Nia and Bobby were, I did not sense a great feeling of loss when Nia lapsed into a coma. I was not sure why Bobby chose to leave the city and his devoted friends to live in Heaven. Bobby’s lapse into irresponsibility when he created “street art” on the brick wall did not make sense to me. I also wondered how Bobby supported Feather.
Even though I had these looming questions, this is a great read for young adolescents. The characters in this novel delve into actions that could happen to the reader. Although teenagers are forever being told the consequences of unprotected sex, little seems to sink in. They seem to be of the mindset, “But that won’t happen to me.” Johnson realistically “shows” not only that it could, but what it might look like if it did.
4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
School Library Journal - Brief, poetic, and absolutely riveting, this gem of a novel tells the story of a young father struggling to raise an infant. The attractive cover photo of a young black man cradling an infant will attract readers.
Booklist (Starred Review) - There's no romanticizing. The exhaustion is real… But from the first page, readers feel the physical reality of Bobby's new world: what it's like to hold Feather on his stomach, smell her skin, touch her clenched fists, feel her shiver, and kiss the top of her curly head. Johnson makes poetry with the simplest words in short, spare sentences that teens will read again and again. The great cover photo shows the strong African American teen holding his tiny baby in his arms.
Publishers Weekly - (Starred Review) - As the past and present threads join in the final chapter, readers will only clamor for more about this memorable father-daughter duo — and an author who so skillfully relates the hope in the midst of pain.
Kirkus Reviews - By narrating from a realistic first-person voice, Johnson manages to convey a story that is always complex, never preachy. The somewhat pat ending doesn't diminish the impact of this short, involving story. It's the tale of one young man and his choices, which many young readers will appreciate and enjoy.
Winner of the 2004 Michael L. Printz Award for Excellence in Literature for Young Adults
Johnson is the winner of the 2004 Coretta Scott King Award for Best African-American Children's Writer
YALSA 2004 – One of the top ten best books for young adults.
5. CONNECTIONS
I had a personal connection to this story. My daughter had a baby when she was a junior in high school. Unlike Bobby’s mother, my husband and I gave Hope all of our support because Austin’s father left Hope the instant he found out she was pregnant. While reading this book, I had immense respect for Johnson’s main characters. Not all fathers walk away. I think of how much different Austin’s life would have been had his father stayed. It’s also realistic to say that a situation does change every facet of life in the teenagers and their family’s lives. I think it’s wonderful to think that there are young men who embrace the consequences of their actions – step up to the plate, so to speak. Little Feather seemed real to me, giving concrete proof that background knowledge will impact how readers read.
Have a discussion about how Bobby's decisions were shaped by his new role as a single dad at such a young age. How might his life have been different?
When Bobby became a single dad, how did the relationship he had with his friends change?
Think of other actions made in an impulsive moment can change one’s life.
Angela wrote a novel previous to THE LAST PART FIRST titled HEAVEN, a Coretta Scott King award winner. Readers may enjoy reading both of these novels.
Have the students write in letter or journal entry about what their daily life entails and how it would change if they had an infant depending on them for their very existence. Do the students think Bobby made the right decision to keep Feather? Why or why not?
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
THE GREEN GLASS SEA
1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Klages, Ellen. 2006. THE GREEN GLASS SEA. New York: Viking, Published by Penguin Group. ISBN 976670061341
2. PLOT SUMMARY
Dewey Kerrigan is an 11 year-child with no mother and a father who is working on very secret project in Los Alamos, New Mexico ("the Hill"), during WWII. In fact, the project is such a secret; the base is unknown to the outside world. Intellectual, mechanical, mathematically inclined Dewey, our protagonist inventor, finds herself in Los Alamos in the middle of the creation of “the gadget” (the first nuclear bomb). She is lonely and misunderstood by the other school children. When her father is called away to Washington D.C., she finds herself staying with the Gordons, Los Alamos scientists, who have a young daughter named Suze. Initially Suze and Dewey do not get along, but eventually find they have more in common than not.
The citizens of Los Alamos quietly get up on July 16, 1945 in the middle of the night and drive out to watch “the gadget” to see if their hard work and long hours have produced the desired effect. After a long wait the words, “This is it!” could be heard over the radio. “And suddenly there was a bright light, as bright as the sun. It lit up the faces of the people and the leaves of the trees.” A few weeks later Suze’s parents take Dewey and Suze to the site of the detonation to see the “Green Glass Sea,” glass formed from sand from the intense heat of the bomb.
3. CRITICAL REVIEW
I fell in love with Dewey the moment I met her. I could relate to her somehow. Don’t all eleven-year old children feel alone, lonely and awkward at times? I remembered that little girl in me. Because this novel is centered slightly before my time, I know little about this era. I learned what it must have felt like to live this “secret” that would strike such devastation on the world.
When I read this novel, I felt myself taking on the emotions of the characters. I was rooting for Dewey and her unique little misfit character, and finally felt the same way toward Suze. Klages surprised me. I did not expect Suze to be an oddity herself. The two girls slowly grow to understand each other and the author does this in a very authentic way.
This is a story about relationships and history. Life in this time was much different than it is today. To think that technology was available to create a bomb that could kill thousands in seconds in the 1940’s is mind-boggling. Klages did her research which can be heard in the expressions of her characters and their day to day life. The fact that they sit and eat meals together seems almost dated. The history of the atomic bomb is interwoven in the story. It lurks in the background, but rears its ugly head every time Suze’s parents work late, Dewey’s father is called “away,” and whispers are heard in the kitchen. Robert Oppenheimer and Richard Feynman make “appearances” in the book, adding authenticity.
The story ending was a bit anticlimactic. I guess I love the happily ever after, but now that I think about it, it was a war story. I wanted to know what happens to Dewey, although I think that’s obvious, I wanted to read the words. I wonder if there was shock on Terry Gordon’s face when she heard about the attack on Hiroshima on August 6, 1945. I wanted more closure, but that is my Pollyanna personality showing.
Klages includes Author’s Notes which explain her work was a real historical event known as the “Manhattan Project,” the development of the atomic bomb. She also includes sources to find out more about “the history of nuclear physics, the development of the bomb, or life on “the Hill.”
4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
Publishers Weekly – Starred Review - Klages makes an impressive debut with an ambitious, meticulously researched novel set during WWII. Writing from the points of view of two displaced children, she successfully recreates life at Los Alamos Camp, where scientists and mathematicians converge with their families to construct and test the first nuclear bomb.....the author provides much insight into the controversies surrounding the making of the bomb and brings to life the tensions of war experienced by adults and children alike.
The Horn Book – Starred Review - The story, an intense but accessible page-turner, firmly belongs to the girls and their families; history and story are drawn together with confidence.
The Library School Journal - Many readers will know as little about the true nature of the project as the girls do, so the gradual revelation of facts is especially effective, while those who already know about Los Alamos' historical significance will experience the story in a different, but equally powerful, way.
Superbly written and rich in detail, Kluges’ novel once again nails the uncertainty that many Americans experienced after the truths of Hiroshima began to surface. History is intricately woven into the story of these memorable characters, and issues such as self-identity, family, and racism are explored. The desert heat is palpable, the immense expanses are easily visualized, and the roles that women and minorities played in the late 1940s are painfully evident.
Booklist - The characters are exceptionally well drawn, and the compelling, unusual setting makes a great tie-in for history classes.
Winner, 2007 Scott O'Dell Award for Historical Fiction
Winner, 2007 Judy Lopez Memorial Award for Children's Literature
Winner, 2007 New Mexico State Book Award (YA)
Finalist, 2007 Quill Awards (Young Adult)
Finalist, Northern California Book Awards, 2007 (Children's)
Finalist, Locus Awards, 2007 (Best First Novel)
Book Sense #1 Children's Pick - Winter 2006/2007
5. CONNECTIONS
Dewey traveled to Los Alamos by train. What were the methods of transportation in the 1940’s compared to 2010? Have the students research and report.
The children in the novel played games that were common to many children at that time, Red Rover, gin rummy and jacks. Have the students look up these games and see what they’re about.
When Dewey received mail from her father it was censored. Have the students research what this means. Have them discover any mail that is still censored today. Have the students work with partners to create a code like Dewey and her father did.
Encourage students to read the sequel to THE GREEN GLASS SEA, WHITE SANDS, RED MENACE, by Ellen Klages.
Suggest the students begin research from the books the author suggests at the end of her book.
Create a Venn-diagram and list similarities and differences between life examined by Klages in her novel and modern times.
When I was young we used to have “duck and cover” drills in case of air raids during the Cuban Missile Crises. If you know a person(s) from previous decades, have them visit the classroom to explain the dangers that existed in the world in the past and how children were helped to prepare for them.
Find out what decades old phrases mean that were used in the book, for example: “loose lips sink ships,” “mind your own beeswax,” ain’t over till the fat man sings.” See if the students can find other slang phrases used in the novel that were common at the time. What slang phrases are used today, i.e. sup, (What’s up?) baby boomers, busted, bling-bling, diss, my bad, nuf said…”
Klages, Ellen. 2006. THE GREEN GLASS SEA. New York: Viking, Published by Penguin Group. ISBN 976670061341
2. PLOT SUMMARY
Dewey Kerrigan is an 11 year-child with no mother and a father who is working on very secret project in Los Alamos, New Mexico ("the Hill"), during WWII. In fact, the project is such a secret; the base is unknown to the outside world. Intellectual, mechanical, mathematically inclined Dewey, our protagonist inventor, finds herself in Los Alamos in the middle of the creation of “the gadget” (the first nuclear bomb). She is lonely and misunderstood by the other school children. When her father is called away to Washington D.C., she finds herself staying with the Gordons, Los Alamos scientists, who have a young daughter named Suze. Initially Suze and Dewey do not get along, but eventually find they have more in common than not.
The citizens of Los Alamos quietly get up on July 16, 1945 in the middle of the night and drive out to watch “the gadget” to see if their hard work and long hours have produced the desired effect. After a long wait the words, “This is it!” could be heard over the radio. “And suddenly there was a bright light, as bright as the sun. It lit up the faces of the people and the leaves of the trees.” A few weeks later Suze’s parents take Dewey and Suze to the site of the detonation to see the “Green Glass Sea,” glass formed from sand from the intense heat of the bomb.
3. CRITICAL REVIEW
I fell in love with Dewey the moment I met her. I could relate to her somehow. Don’t all eleven-year old children feel alone, lonely and awkward at times? I remembered that little girl in me. Because this novel is centered slightly before my time, I know little about this era. I learned what it must have felt like to live this “secret” that would strike such devastation on the world.
When I read this novel, I felt myself taking on the emotions of the characters. I was rooting for Dewey and her unique little misfit character, and finally felt the same way toward Suze. Klages surprised me. I did not expect Suze to be an oddity herself. The two girls slowly grow to understand each other and the author does this in a very authentic way.
This is a story about relationships and history. Life in this time was much different than it is today. To think that technology was available to create a bomb that could kill thousands in seconds in the 1940’s is mind-boggling. Klages did her research which can be heard in the expressions of her characters and their day to day life. The fact that they sit and eat meals together seems almost dated. The history of the atomic bomb is interwoven in the story. It lurks in the background, but rears its ugly head every time Suze’s parents work late, Dewey’s father is called “away,” and whispers are heard in the kitchen. Robert Oppenheimer and Richard Feynman make “appearances” in the book, adding authenticity.
The story ending was a bit anticlimactic. I guess I love the happily ever after, but now that I think about it, it was a war story. I wanted to know what happens to Dewey, although I think that’s obvious, I wanted to read the words. I wonder if there was shock on Terry Gordon’s face when she heard about the attack on Hiroshima on August 6, 1945. I wanted more closure, but that is my Pollyanna personality showing.
Klages includes Author’s Notes which explain her work was a real historical event known as the “Manhattan Project,” the development of the atomic bomb. She also includes sources to find out more about “the history of nuclear physics, the development of the bomb, or life on “the Hill.”
4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
Publishers Weekly – Starred Review - Klages makes an impressive debut with an ambitious, meticulously researched novel set during WWII. Writing from the points of view of two displaced children, she successfully recreates life at Los Alamos Camp, where scientists and mathematicians converge with their families to construct and test the first nuclear bomb.....the author provides much insight into the controversies surrounding the making of the bomb and brings to life the tensions of war experienced by adults and children alike.
The Horn Book – Starred Review - The story, an intense but accessible page-turner, firmly belongs to the girls and their families; history and story are drawn together with confidence.
The Library School Journal - Many readers will know as little about the true nature of the project as the girls do, so the gradual revelation of facts is especially effective, while those who already know about Los Alamos' historical significance will experience the story in a different, but equally powerful, way.
Superbly written and rich in detail, Kluges’ novel once again nails the uncertainty that many Americans experienced after the truths of Hiroshima began to surface. History is intricately woven into the story of these memorable characters, and issues such as self-identity, family, and racism are explored. The desert heat is palpable, the immense expanses are easily visualized, and the roles that women and minorities played in the late 1940s are painfully evident.
Booklist - The characters are exceptionally well drawn, and the compelling, unusual setting makes a great tie-in for history classes.
Winner, 2007 Scott O'Dell Award for Historical Fiction
Winner, 2007 Judy Lopez Memorial Award for Children's Literature
Winner, 2007 New Mexico State Book Award (YA)
Finalist, 2007 Quill Awards (Young Adult)
Finalist, Northern California Book Awards, 2007 (Children's)
Finalist, Locus Awards, 2007 (Best First Novel)
Book Sense #1 Children's Pick - Winter 2006/2007
5. CONNECTIONS
Dewey traveled to Los Alamos by train. What were the methods of transportation in the 1940’s compared to 2010? Have the students research and report.
The children in the novel played games that were common to many children at that time, Red Rover, gin rummy and jacks. Have the students look up these games and see what they’re about.
When Dewey received mail from her father it was censored. Have the students research what this means. Have them discover any mail that is still censored today. Have the students work with partners to create a code like Dewey and her father did.
Encourage students to read the sequel to THE GREEN GLASS SEA, WHITE SANDS, RED MENACE, by Ellen Klages.
Suggest the students begin research from the books the author suggests at the end of her book.
Create a Venn-diagram and list similarities and differences between life examined by Klages in her novel and modern times.
When I was young we used to have “duck and cover” drills in case of air raids during the Cuban Missile Crises. If you know a person(s) from previous decades, have them visit the classroom to explain the dangers that existed in the world in the past and how children were helped to prepare for them.
Find out what decades old phrases mean that were used in the book, for example: “loose lips sink ships,” “mind your own beeswax,” ain’t over till the fat man sings.” See if the students can find other slang phrases used in the novel that were common at the time. What slang phrases are used today, i.e. sup, (What’s up?) baby boomers, busted, bling-bling, diss, my bad, nuf said…”
THE MIDWIFE'S APPRENTICE
1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Cushman, Karen. 1995. THE MIDWIFE’S APPRENTICE. New York: Houghton Mifflin. ISBN :13 97803952692295
2. PLOT SUMMARY
Set in medieval England, Cushman begins her story by describing a homeless, nameless, young orphan, devoid of self-worth, discovered keeping warm in a dung heap by Jane Sharp, an ill-tempered England village midwife. “(She) knew no home, and no mother and no name but Brat and never had…As long as she could remember, Brat had lived on her own by what means she could.” Jane takes the child to her home, christens her Beetle (along with other unsavory titles) and turns her into a servant in exchange for food and shelter (a bed on the floor and a few scraps to eat). Beetle also helps Jane gather supplies to ease the pain of childbirth and accompanies her to birthings. Little by little, Beetle secretly learns the art of midwifery by peeking and listening behind doors.
Beetle renames herself Alyce. “Alyce,” she breathed. Alyce sounded clean and friendly and smart. You could love someone named Alyce.” As circumstances would have it, Alyce delivers a baby, gaining confidence in her strength and abilities. Alas, this feeling is short lived when Alyce fails at a second delivery and the midwife must step in to save the mother and baby. Alyce is devastated and runs from her failure in humiliation and finds work at an inn. Here she meets a scholar who teaches her the alphabet and eventually how to read.
A woman and her husband come to the inn believing the wife has a stomach worm. Alyce realizes the woman is pregnant and helps her successfully deliver a healthy child. This act gives Alyce courage to go back to the Midwife to work and learn with her. Alyce learns not to give up in the face of adversity and finds new courage to face difficult situations.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Cushman’s historical fiction brings realism to life in medieval England. The Midwife uses course rude language with her apprentice, but so does Alyce to her cat because that is the only language she has ever heard, (“Damn you cat, breathe and live, you flea-bitten sod, or I’ll kill you myself.) Leeches, spider webs and plants are used in recipes to help deliver babies. Orphaned children are left to their own devices and not only have to name themselves, but carve a life for themselves, all alone.
Cushman chose to write about ordinary young people in other times because, “(She) grew tired of hearing about kings, princes, generals and presidents.” Research into life in medieval English history led her to write two books placed in this time period, CATHERINE, CALLED BIRDY and THE MIDWIFE’S APPRENTICE. Reading books such as these give insight into different times in history that children can relate to more than reading history in a textbook. The characters come to life through dialogue and they go through their daily routines that are so different from today’s life. The character's language and behavior is authentic in Cushman’s novel and the reader develops an attachment to Alyce, empathy for the hardships she endures, admiration for her wit and self-preservation, and finally pride in the growth of her self-confidence and resilience.
4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
Publishers Weekly - Having focused on a well-born young heroine in her Newbery Honor debut novel. In CATHERINE, CALLED BIRDY, Cushman returns to a similar medieval English setting, this time to imagine how the other half lived. The strengths of this new, relatively brief novel match those of its predecessor: Cushman has an almost unrivaled ability to build atmosphere, and her evocation of a medieval village, if not scholarly in its authenticity, is supremely colorful and pungent. The force of the ambience produces more than enough momentum to propel the reader from start to finish in a single happy sitting.
School Library Journal - With simplicity, wit, and humor, Cushman presents another tale of medieval England. Here readers follow the satisfying, literal and figurative journey of a homeless, nameless child called Brat, who might be 12 or 13-no one really knows. Characters are sketched briefly but with telling, witty detail, and the very scents and sounds of the land and people's occupations fill each page as Alyce comes of age and heart. Earthy humor, the foibles of humans both high and low, and a fascinating mix of superstition and genuinely helpful herbal remedies attached to childbirth make this a truly delightful introduction to a world seldom seen in children's literature.
ALA Booklist (starred review) - Like Cushman's 1994 Newbery Honor Book, "CATHERINE, CALLED BIRDY,” this novel is about a strong, young woman in medieval England who finds her own way home. Of course, it's a feminist story for the 1990s, but there's no anachronism. This is a world, like Chaucer's, that's neither sweet nor fair; it's rough, dangerous, primitive, and raucous. Cushman writes with a sharp simplicity and a pulsing beat. From the first page you're caught by the spirit of the homeless, nameless waif, somewhere around 12 years old, "unwashed, unnourished, unloved, and unlovely," trying to keep warm in a dung heap.” Kids will like this short, fast-paced narrative about a hero who discovers that she's not ugly or stupid or alone.
The Horn Book (starred review) - A fascinating view of a far distant time.
1966 Newbery Award .
A 1996 ALA Notable Children’s Book
An ALA 1996 Best Book for Young Adults New York Public Library
1995 List of Recommended Books
Booklist Books for Youth
Editors’ Choice School Library Journal 1995 Best Books of the Year
An American Bookseller Association Pick of the Lists.
5. CONNECTIONS
THE MIDWIFE’S APPRENTICE is ripe with interesting vocabulary (heedless, diligent, dire, cordial, grovel, turmoil, haggle). Provide a bulletin board or designated place in the classroom for the students to place vocabulary words from the novel to study and use in their own writing.
Encourage the children to research life in medieval England. Provide resources, books, internet etc., for students to gain additional information about life in this time.
Have students research the herbs and flowers and ingredients that the midwife used to help her with her craft. If possible, bring pictures or examples.
Encourage the students to learn more about Karen Cushman on the internet and the research involved in writing her books.
Have discussions with the students about life in medieval England compared to their own lives in the present.
Have the students pick a selection of the book and create a Reader’s Theater script, each taking a part to study.
Suggest other period novels for the students to read, for example, THE BALLAD OF LUCY WHIPPLE and CATHERINE, CALLED BIRDY both written by Karen Cushman.
Cushman, Karen. 1995. THE MIDWIFE’S APPRENTICE. New York: Houghton Mifflin. ISBN :13 97803952692295
2. PLOT SUMMARY
Set in medieval England, Cushman begins her story by describing a homeless, nameless, young orphan, devoid of self-worth, discovered keeping warm in a dung heap by Jane Sharp, an ill-tempered England village midwife. “(She) knew no home, and no mother and no name but Brat and never had…As long as she could remember, Brat had lived on her own by what means she could.” Jane takes the child to her home, christens her Beetle (along with other unsavory titles) and turns her into a servant in exchange for food and shelter (a bed on the floor and a few scraps to eat). Beetle also helps Jane gather supplies to ease the pain of childbirth and accompanies her to birthings. Little by little, Beetle secretly learns the art of midwifery by peeking and listening behind doors.
Beetle renames herself Alyce. “Alyce,” she breathed. Alyce sounded clean and friendly and smart. You could love someone named Alyce.” As circumstances would have it, Alyce delivers a baby, gaining confidence in her strength and abilities. Alas, this feeling is short lived when Alyce fails at a second delivery and the midwife must step in to save the mother and baby. Alyce is devastated and runs from her failure in humiliation and finds work at an inn. Here she meets a scholar who teaches her the alphabet and eventually how to read.
A woman and her husband come to the inn believing the wife has a stomach worm. Alyce realizes the woman is pregnant and helps her successfully deliver a healthy child. This act gives Alyce courage to go back to the Midwife to work and learn with her. Alyce learns not to give up in the face of adversity and finds new courage to face difficult situations.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Cushman’s historical fiction brings realism to life in medieval England. The Midwife uses course rude language with her apprentice, but so does Alyce to her cat because that is the only language she has ever heard, (“Damn you cat, breathe and live, you flea-bitten sod, or I’ll kill you myself.) Leeches, spider webs and plants are used in recipes to help deliver babies. Orphaned children are left to their own devices and not only have to name themselves, but carve a life for themselves, all alone.
Cushman chose to write about ordinary young people in other times because, “(She) grew tired of hearing about kings, princes, generals and presidents.” Research into life in medieval English history led her to write two books placed in this time period, CATHERINE, CALLED BIRDY and THE MIDWIFE’S APPRENTICE. Reading books such as these give insight into different times in history that children can relate to more than reading history in a textbook. The characters come to life through dialogue and they go through their daily routines that are so different from today’s life. The character's language and behavior is authentic in Cushman’s novel and the reader develops an attachment to Alyce, empathy for the hardships she endures, admiration for her wit and self-preservation, and finally pride in the growth of her self-confidence and resilience.
4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
Publishers Weekly - Having focused on a well-born young heroine in her Newbery Honor debut novel. In CATHERINE, CALLED BIRDY, Cushman returns to a similar medieval English setting, this time to imagine how the other half lived. The strengths of this new, relatively brief novel match those of its predecessor: Cushman has an almost unrivaled ability to build atmosphere, and her evocation of a medieval village, if not scholarly in its authenticity, is supremely colorful and pungent. The force of the ambience produces more than enough momentum to propel the reader from start to finish in a single happy sitting.
School Library Journal - With simplicity, wit, and humor, Cushman presents another tale of medieval England. Here readers follow the satisfying, literal and figurative journey of a homeless, nameless child called Brat, who might be 12 or 13-no one really knows. Characters are sketched briefly but with telling, witty detail, and the very scents and sounds of the land and people's occupations fill each page as Alyce comes of age and heart. Earthy humor, the foibles of humans both high and low, and a fascinating mix of superstition and genuinely helpful herbal remedies attached to childbirth make this a truly delightful introduction to a world seldom seen in children's literature.
ALA Booklist (starred review) - Like Cushman's 1994 Newbery Honor Book, "CATHERINE, CALLED BIRDY,” this novel is about a strong, young woman in medieval England who finds her own way home. Of course, it's a feminist story for the 1990s, but there's no anachronism. This is a world, like Chaucer's, that's neither sweet nor fair; it's rough, dangerous, primitive, and raucous. Cushman writes with a sharp simplicity and a pulsing beat. From the first page you're caught by the spirit of the homeless, nameless waif, somewhere around 12 years old, "unwashed, unnourished, unloved, and unlovely," trying to keep warm in a dung heap.” Kids will like this short, fast-paced narrative about a hero who discovers that she's not ugly or stupid or alone.
The Horn Book (starred review) - A fascinating view of a far distant time.
1966 Newbery Award .
A 1996 ALA Notable Children’s Book
An ALA 1996 Best Book for Young Adults New York Public Library
1995 List of Recommended Books
Booklist Books for Youth
Editors’ Choice School Library Journal 1995 Best Books of the Year
An American Bookseller Association Pick of the Lists.
5. CONNECTIONS
THE MIDWIFE’S APPRENTICE is ripe with interesting vocabulary (heedless, diligent, dire, cordial, grovel, turmoil, haggle). Provide a bulletin board or designated place in the classroom for the students to place vocabulary words from the novel to study and use in their own writing.
Encourage the children to research life in medieval England. Provide resources, books, internet etc., for students to gain additional information about life in this time.
Have students research the herbs and flowers and ingredients that the midwife used to help her with her craft. If possible, bring pictures or examples.
Encourage the students to learn more about Karen Cushman on the internet and the research involved in writing her books.
Have discussions with the students about life in medieval England compared to their own lives in the present.
Have the students pick a selection of the book and create a Reader’s Theater script, each taking a part to study.
Suggest other period novels for the students to read, for example, THE BALLAD OF LUCY WHIPPLE and CATHERINE, CALLED BIRDY both written by Karen Cushman.
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
THE WITCH OF BLACKBIRD POND
1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Speare, Elizabeth George. 1958, 1986. THE WITCH OF BLACKBIRD POND. New York: Houghton Mifflin. ISBN 0395071143
2. PLOT SUMMARY
Orphaned Katherine Tyler (Kit) sails from her home in Barbados in 1687 to live in Wethersfield, Connecticut with her aunt, uncle, and two cousins. Her free spirited, willful nature is frowned upon in this strict Puritan town. Feeling sad and lonely, Kit makes friends with Hanna Tupper, a widowed Quaker who is suspected by some of being the witch of Blackbird Pond.
When the town is seized by an outbreak of a deadly illness, many narrow-minded, spiteful Puritans accuse Hannah of causing the outbreak and come after her. Kit quickly rescues Hannah and places her on a ship pulling into the harbor, with the help of Nat, a close friend, soon to be a romantic interest, of Kit.
When the townspeople discover Kit was friends with Hanna Tupper, she is also accused of being a witch. She was imprisoned in a cold, wooden shed, awaiting a hearing to determine if she would stand trial for witchcraft. Nate and Prudence, a young girl Kit took under her wing and taught how to read, come to her rescue and rectify the misunderstanding that almost sent Kit to trial. Nat invites Kit to come aboard his new ship and be with him forever.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
THE WITCH OF BLACKBIRD POND is an historical novel set in the late 1600’s. Speare tells a very convincing tale depicting the political turmoil, colonial life, and religious strictness of the Puritans. As the reader follows Kit through a year living with her aunt and uncle, a clear picture is drawn about the life and times during that period. For example, many men were concerned about the Connecticut Charter with England and the reader gets a sense of the atmosphere that led up to the American Revolution.
The descriptions of the strict Puritan customs and the unrealistic fears of the time are very persuasive. Kit, in her rebellion against bigotry and religious surroundings, bring to life the fear and suspicions in 1687. It seems impossible to conceive that anyone would truly believe a person is a witch and capable of striking an entire city with a deadly illness, but a compelling portrait is obtained of a group of people who, out of fear and ignorance, put to death those they were thought be “witches.” This realistic portrayal helps children understand the climate at that time in history in terms they can understand.
The characters in THE WITCH OF BLACKBIRD POND are very realistic. The reader forms a fondness for many of the characters, especially Kit, Nate, Hannah, Mercy, and Aunt Rachael. Even stern, unwavering Uncle Mathew Wood is loved and respected for his convictions by the end of the novel. Several characters actually lived in this historical fiction novel, Dr. Gershom Bulkeley, Eleazer Kimberly, Governor Edmund Andros, and Captain Samuel Talcott. These characters lend an sense of authenticity to the text.
This book should open up discussions about bigotry and mob mentality. Even though the similar events in history happened centuries ago, we still see these same prejudices alive and well today. The students can talk about how the characters in the book handled the problems of narrow-mindedness and how we can solve problems like this today.
4. AUDIO CASETTE REVIEW (in addition to reading)
THE WITCH OF BLACKBIRD POND by Elizabeth George Speare audio book. Unabridged.
6 CD’s, slipcase covering. 6 hours 33 minutes. Read by Mary Beth Hurt. 2002. New York: Random House. ISBN 0807216100.
Mary Beth Hurt does a marvelous job of narrating THE WITCH OF BLACKBIRD POND. The recording begins and ends with music playing behind Hurt’s voice, lending a tone of professionalism. This novel begs to being read out loud. Hurt’s voice is clear and distinct with excellent intonation, expression, and phrasing. She reads the voices of the various characters in such a way there is no curiosity about who is speaking. The volume of the book is definitely understandable, as Hurt reads the language spoken during our country’s early colonization. Hearing this language read aloud may aid in comprehension. The tone is interesting and lively. These CD’s were a joy, rewarding, and exciting to listen to.
5. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
From School Library Journal - Mary Beth Hurt gives an excellent performance in this reading of the Newbery Award-winning novel by Elizabeth George Speare (HM, 1958). Hurt's use of vocal inflection and expression make this an excellent choice for listening.
Booklist - Strong plot, fully realized characters and convincing atmosphere distinguish this historical narrative of a girl whose rebellion against bigotry and her Puritan surroundings culminates in a witch hunt and trial.
Children’s Book Watch - Barry Moser illustrates this reissue of a Newbery Award-winning story of a girl marked by suspicion from the moment she enters colonial Connecticut in 1687. Her unconventional ways lead to conflict and trouble for the lonely girl in this moving story which combines a powerful plot and strong characterization with insights on social change.
Common Sense Media - Well-developed characters and detailed descriptions of life within the town capture and sustain the reader's interest throughout the novel. Coming from a more permissive modern society, many readers will empathize with Kit's unsuccessful attempts to suppress her independent nature, and will find her failure to conform to such a restrictive society endearing. Speare addresses Kit's inner thoughts and emotions frequently throughout the novel, making her a believable and sympathetic character. Though some of the minor characters are stereotypical Puritans, the complex nature of many of the more prominent Puritan characters, particularly those within Kit's family, is gradually revealed.
Passages describing the daily life in a 17th century Puritan colony are particularly interesting. required behavior in church and the punishments meted out to disobedient children, to the daily chores of the women of Kit's household, readers are given a glimpse of what life was like over 300 years ago. But as charges of witchcraft mount, the novel becomes a real page-turner, and many will find it hard to put down.
1959 Newbery Award Winner
ALA Notable Children’s Book
6. CONNECTIONS
Have the students create a book jacket for the book, including a short plot summary, a blurb about the author, and an illustration on the front cover.
Have the students learn more about this Newbery winning author, Elizabeth George Speare.
Have the students link this book to their own lives. Are there any similarities or differences? Have the students chart these insights on a graphic organizer.
As the children read or listen to THE WITCH OF BLACKBIRD POND, have them keep a reader’s journal and write their questions, observations, thoughts, and opinions.
Have a discussion with the students about the political, social, religious behaviors and thoughts during colonial times.
Encourage the students to search for the real cause of the epidemic of 1687-88 in Connecticut and surrounding states.
Suggest the students compare and contrast the Puritan and Quaker religions as they were practiced in colonial times and chart the differences and similarities.
Similar books the students may enjoy include: Johnny Tremain by Esther Forbes, Illustrated by Lynn Ward, The Sign of the Beaver by Elizabeth George Speare, and Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O’Dell.
Speare, Elizabeth George. 1958, 1986. THE WITCH OF BLACKBIRD POND. New York: Houghton Mifflin. ISBN 0395071143
2. PLOT SUMMARY
Orphaned Katherine Tyler (Kit) sails from her home in Barbados in 1687 to live in Wethersfield, Connecticut with her aunt, uncle, and two cousins. Her free spirited, willful nature is frowned upon in this strict Puritan town. Feeling sad and lonely, Kit makes friends with Hanna Tupper, a widowed Quaker who is suspected by some of being the witch of Blackbird Pond.
When the town is seized by an outbreak of a deadly illness, many narrow-minded, spiteful Puritans accuse Hannah of causing the outbreak and come after her. Kit quickly rescues Hannah and places her on a ship pulling into the harbor, with the help of Nat, a close friend, soon to be a romantic interest, of Kit.
When the townspeople discover Kit was friends with Hanna Tupper, she is also accused of being a witch. She was imprisoned in a cold, wooden shed, awaiting a hearing to determine if she would stand trial for witchcraft. Nate and Prudence, a young girl Kit took under her wing and taught how to read, come to her rescue and rectify the misunderstanding that almost sent Kit to trial. Nat invites Kit to come aboard his new ship and be with him forever.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
THE WITCH OF BLACKBIRD POND is an historical novel set in the late 1600’s. Speare tells a very convincing tale depicting the political turmoil, colonial life, and religious strictness of the Puritans. As the reader follows Kit through a year living with her aunt and uncle, a clear picture is drawn about the life and times during that period. For example, many men were concerned about the Connecticut Charter with England and the reader gets a sense of the atmosphere that led up to the American Revolution.
The descriptions of the strict Puritan customs and the unrealistic fears of the time are very persuasive. Kit, in her rebellion against bigotry and religious surroundings, bring to life the fear and suspicions in 1687. It seems impossible to conceive that anyone would truly believe a person is a witch and capable of striking an entire city with a deadly illness, but a compelling portrait is obtained of a group of people who, out of fear and ignorance, put to death those they were thought be “witches.” This realistic portrayal helps children understand the climate at that time in history in terms they can understand.
The characters in THE WITCH OF BLACKBIRD POND are very realistic. The reader forms a fondness for many of the characters, especially Kit, Nate, Hannah, Mercy, and Aunt Rachael. Even stern, unwavering Uncle Mathew Wood is loved and respected for his convictions by the end of the novel. Several characters actually lived in this historical fiction novel, Dr. Gershom Bulkeley, Eleazer Kimberly, Governor Edmund Andros, and Captain Samuel Talcott. These characters lend an sense of authenticity to the text.
This book should open up discussions about bigotry and mob mentality. Even though the similar events in history happened centuries ago, we still see these same prejudices alive and well today. The students can talk about how the characters in the book handled the problems of narrow-mindedness and how we can solve problems like this today.
4. AUDIO CASETTE REVIEW (in addition to reading)
THE WITCH OF BLACKBIRD POND by Elizabeth George Speare audio book. Unabridged.
6 CD’s, slipcase covering. 6 hours 33 minutes. Read by Mary Beth Hurt. 2002. New York: Random House. ISBN 0807216100.
Mary Beth Hurt does a marvelous job of narrating THE WITCH OF BLACKBIRD POND. The recording begins and ends with music playing behind Hurt’s voice, lending a tone of professionalism. This novel begs to being read out loud. Hurt’s voice is clear and distinct with excellent intonation, expression, and phrasing. She reads the voices of the various characters in such a way there is no curiosity about who is speaking. The volume of the book is definitely understandable, as Hurt reads the language spoken during our country’s early colonization. Hearing this language read aloud may aid in comprehension. The tone is interesting and lively. These CD’s were a joy, rewarding, and exciting to listen to.
5. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
From School Library Journal - Mary Beth Hurt gives an excellent performance in this reading of the Newbery Award-winning novel by Elizabeth George Speare (HM, 1958). Hurt's use of vocal inflection and expression make this an excellent choice for listening.
Booklist - Strong plot, fully realized characters and convincing atmosphere distinguish this historical narrative of a girl whose rebellion against bigotry and her Puritan surroundings culminates in a witch hunt and trial.
Children’s Book Watch - Barry Moser illustrates this reissue of a Newbery Award-winning story of a girl marked by suspicion from the moment she enters colonial Connecticut in 1687. Her unconventional ways lead to conflict and trouble for the lonely girl in this moving story which combines a powerful plot and strong characterization with insights on social change.
Common Sense Media - Well-developed characters and detailed descriptions of life within the town capture and sustain the reader's interest throughout the novel. Coming from a more permissive modern society, many readers will empathize with Kit's unsuccessful attempts to suppress her independent nature, and will find her failure to conform to such a restrictive society endearing. Speare addresses Kit's inner thoughts and emotions frequently throughout the novel, making her a believable and sympathetic character. Though some of the minor characters are stereotypical Puritans, the complex nature of many of the more prominent Puritan characters, particularly those within Kit's family, is gradually revealed.
Passages describing the daily life in a 17th century Puritan colony are particularly interesting. required behavior in church and the punishments meted out to disobedient children, to the daily chores of the women of Kit's household, readers are given a glimpse of what life was like over 300 years ago. But as charges of witchcraft mount, the novel becomes a real page-turner, and many will find it hard to put down.
1959 Newbery Award Winner
ALA Notable Children’s Book
6. CONNECTIONS
Have the students create a book jacket for the book, including a short plot summary, a blurb about the author, and an illustration on the front cover.
Have the students learn more about this Newbery winning author, Elizabeth George Speare.
Have the students link this book to their own lives. Are there any similarities or differences? Have the students chart these insights on a graphic organizer.
As the children read or listen to THE WITCH OF BLACKBIRD POND, have them keep a reader’s journal and write their questions, observations, thoughts, and opinions.
Have a discussion with the students about the political, social, religious behaviors and thoughts during colonial times.
Encourage the students to search for the real cause of the epidemic of 1687-88 in Connecticut and surrounding states.
Suggest the students compare and contrast the Puritan and Quaker religions as they were practiced in colonial times and chart the differences and similarities.
Similar books the students may enjoy include: Johnny Tremain by Esther Forbes, Illustrated by Lynn Ward, The Sign of the Beaver by Elizabeth George Speare, and Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O’Dell.
Monday, July 12, 2010
The Graveyard Book
1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Gaiman, Neil. 2008. THE GRAVEYARD BOOK. Ill. Dave McKean. Harper Collins Publishers. New York,
ISBN 9780060530821.
Also included: an Audiobook Review
2. PLOT SUMMARY
Young Nobody Owens, nicknamed “Bod,” was the lone survivor of a vicious attack on his family by a man named “Jack,” when he was merely a toddler. He escaped his parent’s and sister’s fate when he climbed out of his crib, unnoticed by the killer, and found his way out an open. door. He tottered up the hill, toward a dark graveyard. When the orphan arrived, he was met by a gathering of ghosts. After some debate, they decided Mr. and Mrs. Owens (ghosts who always wanted a child when they were alive), would raise the child as their own. Silas, a "man" living between the living and dead, would be his guardian, bringing him necessities from the “other” world and offer words of wisdom.
As the book progresses Bod grows to teen hood. He learns many lessons along the way, from inside the graveyard, and when he ventures outside the gates (to school and to search for his family’s killer, Jack). As he ages his confidence in himself grows as he learns life’s lessons and grows to understand his restrictions. The graveyard is his safe place, his home where he is loved and protected. The outside world is scary and Bod has his ups and downs as he learns the ways of the living.
Eventually, Bod grows up and ventures out into the world, somewhat reluctantly, but not before eradicating the world of the man who killed his family and the other “Jacks” in the organization that planned their demise. With a heavy heart he bid goodbye to the dead, the ghosts, witches, werewolves, and caring citizens of the Graveyard. With a little money and the passport Silas offered him, Bod began his new life, “with his eyes and heart wide open.”
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
I fell in love with Bod and his ghostly family. This story has heart. Not only does it have heart, it’s a page turner because the reader can hardly wait to see what happens to young Bod and the dangers lurking for him in the world outside the graveyard. Gaiman somehow works magic by having the reader believe it is completely possible for ghosts, witches, ghouls, werewolves, and dead people to love, care for, and raise a loving, bright, thoughtful, somewhat ordinary boy.
Staying true to a fantasy, Gaiman offers Bod obstacles to overcome and villains to vanquish. This is not unusual in a fantasy, but the graveyard setting is described in such detail the reader might be able to find his or her way around the confines, if it really existed. Each character Gaiman introduces has their own unique, quirky personality that is enduring to the reader, (with the exception of the "Jacks" and Bod's classmates). I must admit, I cried when Bod said goodbye to his graveyard family to venture out into the world.
THE GRAVEYARD BOOK has charm and humor. I found myself laughing out loud at Bod’s adventures and encounters with his ghostly friends. Gaimen kept his book emotionally honest. Although he had a host of otherworldly characters, he describes feelings that teenage readers can relate to. As Bod came in and out of the graveyard, he learned love and lessons to carry him through to the real world until the time he returned. I, myself, would love to see another book with Bod as the main character and his adventures outside the graveyard.
I was a bit disappointed with the some of the illustrations in the story. Although most are perfect with ghostlike qualities and some help the reader understand the text, as an adult reader I had a vision of what Bod looked like and it was not the boy illustrated in the book.
Overall, however, I loved this book and would recommend it to young adolescents and adults alike. In fact, I enjoyed it so much I checked-out the audiotapes from the library so I could hear the author read his own words.
4. AUDIOBOOK REVIEW
Narrated by the author, unabridged, 7 CDs – 7.75 hours, Slipcase packaging checked out from the public library,
I enjoyed this book so much I decided to listen to it on audio. I was delighted to read the author was the narrator of his own book. I am always overjoyed to hear authors read their own work because they know the way it was intended to be read. Gaimen has the perfect voice to narrate his book. It is deep and clear, soft-spoken, and mesmerizing, which results in the listener concentrating on the words being read. Gaiman’s phrasing is perfection.
The sound quality of the CD’s are excellent, lively string, plucky instruments begin and end each CD. The clarity of Gaiman’s voice is perfect, with his slight accent. Gaimen changes his voice for multiple voices, credible for men and women’s alike.
The reading is highly engaging. The book is so wonderful it is difficult to stop listening even when life pulls the reader in other directions.
I listen to many books on tape and truly enjoy the experience. Rarely, however, do I enjoy a tape as much as I enjoy turning pages of a book myself. I have not enjoyed listening to a tape as much as I did THE GRAVEYARD BOOK since I heard Khaled Hosseini’s 2003, THE KITE RUNNER.
5. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
From School Library Journal - …Gaiman has created a rich, surprising, and sometimes disturbing tale of dreams, ghouls, murderers, trickery, and family.
Publishers Weekly (Starred Review)…this gothic fantasy almost lives up to its extravagant advance billing. The opening is enthralling. The author riffs on the Jungle Book, folklore, nursery rhymes and history; he tosses in werewolves and hints at vampires — and he makes these figures seem like metaphors for transitions in childhood and youth. When the chilling moments do come, they are as genuinely frightening as only Gaiman can make them.
Booklist (starred review) (THE GRAVEYARD BOOK) is an utterly captivating tale that is cleverly told through an entertaining cast of ghostly characters. There is plenty of darkness, but the novel's ultimate message is strong and life affirming.
Kirkus Reviews (Starred Review) - Wistful, witty, wise — and creepy. Gaiman's riff on Kipling's Mowgli stories never falters, from the truly spine-tingling opening...to the melancholy, life-affirming ending...[T]his needs to be read by anyone who is or has ever been a child."
The New York Times – THE GRAVEYARD BOOK, by turns exciting and witty, sinister and tender shows Gaiman at the top of his form…The story's language and humor are sophisticated, but Gaiman respects his readers and trusts them to understand…In this novel of wonder, Neil Gaiman follows in the footsteps of long-ago storytellers, weaving a tale of unforgettable.
Review-a-Day – THE GRAVEYARD BOOK is one of Gaiman's best novel…this book is a joy to read. The scenes and characters spring vividly to life in a way that helped mark Gaiman's reputation as a comic writer but doesn't always happen in his prose. Don't be surprised to find yourself wishing you could trade places with Bod and grow up in a cemetery, yourself.
2009 Newbery Medal Winner
2009 Hugo Award Winner for Best Novel
2010 Carnegie Medal Winner Boston Globe–
Horn Book Award Honor Book
ALA Best Book for Young Adults Children’s Book Award
ALA Booklist Editors’ Choice Horn Book Fanfare
Kirkus Reviews - Best Children’s Book Time Magazine Top Ten Fiction
Cooperative Children’s Book Center Choice New York Public Library’s 100 Titles for Reading and Sharing
New York Public Library Stuff for the Teen Age
6. CONNECTIONS
THE GRAVEYARD BOOK as been chosen to be written into a major motion picture. It will be interesting to have the students watch the film when it emerges to compare the plots and watch the visual effects in the film.
There is an excellent trailer of THE GRAVEYARD BOOK narrated by the author at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P_UUVwTaemk. Along with the use of the book’s illustrations and a dark “virtual tour” of the graveyard, a short summary of the book is exposed.
Have the students create their own posters to “sell” other students on the merits of the book.
Encourage the students to choose their favorite scene from THE GRAVEYARD BOOK and illustrate it. Suggest they attempt to evoke different moods – “scary, creepy, funny, or mysterious.”
Gaiman uses intriguing vocabulary in his novel. Have the students look for interesting words, determine the definitions, and place them on a bulletin board or anchor chart to choose for their own writing. (For example: diffuse, drear, expostulate, gorse, mausoleum, obelisk, unflappable, abate, macabre, pearlescent, reprehensible, gargantuan, palpable, transpire).
Gaiman, Neil. 2008. THE GRAVEYARD BOOK. Ill. Dave McKean. Harper Collins Publishers. New York,
ISBN 9780060530821.
Also included: an Audiobook Review
2. PLOT SUMMARY
Young Nobody Owens, nicknamed “Bod,” was the lone survivor of a vicious attack on his family by a man named “Jack,” when he was merely a toddler. He escaped his parent’s and sister’s fate when he climbed out of his crib, unnoticed by the killer, and found his way out an open. door. He tottered up the hill, toward a dark graveyard. When the orphan arrived, he was met by a gathering of ghosts. After some debate, they decided Mr. and Mrs. Owens (ghosts who always wanted a child when they were alive), would raise the child as their own. Silas, a "man" living between the living and dead, would be his guardian, bringing him necessities from the “other” world and offer words of wisdom.
As the book progresses Bod grows to teen hood. He learns many lessons along the way, from inside the graveyard, and when he ventures outside the gates (to school and to search for his family’s killer, Jack). As he ages his confidence in himself grows as he learns life’s lessons and grows to understand his restrictions. The graveyard is his safe place, his home where he is loved and protected. The outside world is scary and Bod has his ups and downs as he learns the ways of the living.
Eventually, Bod grows up and ventures out into the world, somewhat reluctantly, but not before eradicating the world of the man who killed his family and the other “Jacks” in the organization that planned their demise. With a heavy heart he bid goodbye to the dead, the ghosts, witches, werewolves, and caring citizens of the Graveyard. With a little money and the passport Silas offered him, Bod began his new life, “with his eyes and heart wide open.”
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
I fell in love with Bod and his ghostly family. This story has heart. Not only does it have heart, it’s a page turner because the reader can hardly wait to see what happens to young Bod and the dangers lurking for him in the world outside the graveyard. Gaiman somehow works magic by having the reader believe it is completely possible for ghosts, witches, ghouls, werewolves, and dead people to love, care for, and raise a loving, bright, thoughtful, somewhat ordinary boy.
Staying true to a fantasy, Gaiman offers Bod obstacles to overcome and villains to vanquish. This is not unusual in a fantasy, but the graveyard setting is described in such detail the reader might be able to find his or her way around the confines, if it really existed. Each character Gaiman introduces has their own unique, quirky personality that is enduring to the reader, (with the exception of the "Jacks" and Bod's classmates). I must admit, I cried when Bod said goodbye to his graveyard family to venture out into the world.
THE GRAVEYARD BOOK has charm and humor. I found myself laughing out loud at Bod’s adventures and encounters with his ghostly friends. Gaimen kept his book emotionally honest. Although he had a host of otherworldly characters, he describes feelings that teenage readers can relate to. As Bod came in and out of the graveyard, he learned love and lessons to carry him through to the real world until the time he returned. I, myself, would love to see another book with Bod as the main character and his adventures outside the graveyard.
I was a bit disappointed with the some of the illustrations in the story. Although most are perfect with ghostlike qualities and some help the reader understand the text, as an adult reader I had a vision of what Bod looked like and it was not the boy illustrated in the book.
Overall, however, I loved this book and would recommend it to young adolescents and adults alike. In fact, I enjoyed it so much I checked-out the audiotapes from the library so I could hear the author read his own words.
4. AUDIOBOOK REVIEW
Narrated by the author, unabridged, 7 CDs – 7.75 hours, Slipcase packaging checked out from the public library,
I enjoyed this book so much I decided to listen to it on audio. I was delighted to read the author was the narrator of his own book. I am always overjoyed to hear authors read their own work because they know the way it was intended to be read. Gaimen has the perfect voice to narrate his book. It is deep and clear, soft-spoken, and mesmerizing, which results in the listener concentrating on the words being read. Gaiman’s phrasing is perfection.
The sound quality of the CD’s are excellent, lively string, plucky instruments begin and end each CD. The clarity of Gaiman’s voice is perfect, with his slight accent. Gaimen changes his voice for multiple voices, credible for men and women’s alike.
The reading is highly engaging. The book is so wonderful it is difficult to stop listening even when life pulls the reader in other directions.
I listen to many books on tape and truly enjoy the experience. Rarely, however, do I enjoy a tape as much as I enjoy turning pages of a book myself. I have not enjoyed listening to a tape as much as I did THE GRAVEYARD BOOK since I heard Khaled Hosseini’s 2003, THE KITE RUNNER.
5. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
From School Library Journal - …Gaiman has created a rich, surprising, and sometimes disturbing tale of dreams, ghouls, murderers, trickery, and family.
Publishers Weekly (Starred Review)…this gothic fantasy almost lives up to its extravagant advance billing. The opening is enthralling. The author riffs on the Jungle Book, folklore, nursery rhymes and history; he tosses in werewolves and hints at vampires — and he makes these figures seem like metaphors for transitions in childhood and youth. When the chilling moments do come, they are as genuinely frightening as only Gaiman can make them.
Booklist (starred review) (THE GRAVEYARD BOOK) is an utterly captivating tale that is cleverly told through an entertaining cast of ghostly characters. There is plenty of darkness, but the novel's ultimate message is strong and life affirming.
Kirkus Reviews (Starred Review) - Wistful, witty, wise — and creepy. Gaiman's riff on Kipling's Mowgli stories never falters, from the truly spine-tingling opening...to the melancholy, life-affirming ending...[T]his needs to be read by anyone who is or has ever been a child."
The New York Times – THE GRAVEYARD BOOK, by turns exciting and witty, sinister and tender shows Gaiman at the top of his form…The story's language and humor are sophisticated, but Gaiman respects his readers and trusts them to understand…In this novel of wonder, Neil Gaiman follows in the footsteps of long-ago storytellers, weaving a tale of unforgettable.
Review-a-Day – THE GRAVEYARD BOOK is one of Gaiman's best novel…this book is a joy to read. The scenes and characters spring vividly to life in a way that helped mark Gaiman's reputation as a comic writer but doesn't always happen in his prose. Don't be surprised to find yourself wishing you could trade places with Bod and grow up in a cemetery, yourself.
2009 Newbery Medal Winner
2009 Hugo Award Winner for Best Novel
2010 Carnegie Medal Winner Boston Globe–
Horn Book Award Honor Book
ALA Best Book for Young Adults Children’s Book Award
ALA Booklist Editors’ Choice Horn Book Fanfare
Kirkus Reviews - Best Children’s Book Time Magazine Top Ten Fiction
Cooperative Children’s Book Center Choice New York Public Library’s 100 Titles for Reading and Sharing
New York Public Library Stuff for the Teen Age
6. CONNECTIONS
THE GRAVEYARD BOOK as been chosen to be written into a major motion picture. It will be interesting to have the students watch the film when it emerges to compare the plots and watch the visual effects in the film.
There is an excellent trailer of THE GRAVEYARD BOOK narrated by the author at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P_UUVwTaemk. Along with the use of the book’s illustrations and a dark “virtual tour” of the graveyard, a short summary of the book is exposed.
Have the students create their own posters to “sell” other students on the merits of the book.
Encourage the students to choose their favorite scene from THE GRAVEYARD BOOK and illustrate it. Suggest they attempt to evoke different moods – “scary, creepy, funny, or mysterious.”
Gaiman uses intriguing vocabulary in his novel. Have the students look for interesting words, determine the definitions, and place them on a bulletin board or anchor chart to choose for their own writing. (For example: diffuse, drear, expostulate, gorse, mausoleum, obelisk, unflappable, abate, macabre, pearlescent, reprehensible, gargantuan, palpable, transpire).
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Leonardo da Vinci
1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Krull, Kathleen. 2005. Leonardo da Vinci. Ill. Kulikov, Boris. New York: Viking. ISBN: 067005920.
2. PLOT SUMMARY
Many people think of Leonardo da Vinci and immediately think of the famous painting, Mona Lisa, (which da Vinci did not name, by the way). Although painting was his livelihood, observing the world around him and trying to understand it was his passion. He devoted the second half of his life to observation, reading, writing, and experimenting, trying to answer burning questions the world did not yet know or that he was curious about.
Krull begins her book, LEONARDO da VINCI, by giving background into what the world was like during the Middle Ages. She then brings the artist and scientist into the drama and explains a little about his upbringing and events that shaped his character and inquisitiveness. He had book knowledge of the world, but was constantly questioning how and why things worked the way they did. He had his own ideas different from any others. For example, he studied birds to determine how to paint wings on angels. He was one of the first scientists to dissect cadavers to understand the inner workings of the human body.
Da Vinci recorded his drawings, theories, findings, thoughts, and reflections in what are now the famous da Vinci Notebooks, worth millions of dollars. From these writings the world understands more about the man behind the artist. Krull explains he was actually more scientist than artist, thinking beyond his time.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Kathleen Krull, in her conversion style of writing, brings out the humanness in this genius from the past. Anyone who has ever studied the Mona Lisa must have wondered about the man behind the painting. Although this book does describe da Vinci’s brilliance as an artist, she focuses on the scientist behind this creative man. Krull, through her description of da Vinci, causes the reader to wonder about life during the Renaissance and what it must have felt like to make discoveries and study theories that were then taken as fact (for example that the Earth was the center of the universe and not even a planet)!
Krull also speaks of da Vinci’s notebooks as works of art themselves. In these books are hidden the secrets of this genius from the past. It makes sense to the reader that his thoughts and actions would live through the centuries. Krull gives a heart to this serious artist and scientist.
Boris Kulikov’s occasional pen and paper illustrations add to the understanding of Krull’s text. For example, Kulikov depicts da Vinci writing in his notebook scrawled with mirror image letters that Krull describes. Behind this page peeks out famous drawings for which da Vinci is noted. A table of contents, beginning chapter quotes, extensive descriptions of da Vinci’s remaining notebook pages, a postscript about delving into the man as an artist, a bibliography, websites to visit for further information, and an index are included to aid the reader.
4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
School Library Journal starred review - With a totally captivating opening and a writing style, Krull offers a vivid description of life in the Middle Ages. Readers will come away from this accessible volume with an understanding of who Leonardo was and a desire to know more about this fascinating, brilliant man.
Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books - At Krull’s hands, biography blitzes by at the speed of a well-paced novel…If this volume is a reliable indicator, readers can expect [the series] to combine the depth of a standard-length children’s biography with the gossipy details that make her “Lives of” books so popular…. This fairly begs to be booktalked, and it just might lure some fresh readers over to the biography shelves.”
Horn Book - This lively biography, the initial offering in the Giants of Science series, sets a high standard for the five books to follow…. [Krull’s] narrative voice is filled with energy and wonder.
Publisher's Weekly - starred review - With an inviting, conversational narrative and Boris Kulikov's occasional atmospheric -and-inks, this series launches with an impressive start.
Kirkus Reviews, starred review - Krull manages, in some 100-plus text pages, to present Leonardo's scientific accomplishments while at the same time conveying a sense of the man himself… is no mean feat and bodes well for the succeeding volumes in the series.
CBC/NSTA - Outstanding Science Book of the Year
A Booklinks “Lasting Connection”
A Publishers Weekly - Best Book
A Kirkus - Best Book of the Year
5. CONNECTIONS
Related websites to visit are http://www.kathleenkrull.com/ and http://www.thinkquest.org/3044/
Krull explains to her young readers that she was fired from her first job in a library for reading too much! She also has an interesting BlogSpot at http://www.kathleenkrull.com/. Have the students visit these sites to learn more about the Leonardo da Vinci, Kathleen Krull and her work. Her site also includes a link for teachers.
A video of Kathleen Krull can be found on the Reading Rockets website at: http://www.readingrockets.org/books/interviews/krull. It is interesting for the students to see the actual author speaking about her ideas and books.
Give students opportunities to read other books by this child-friendly author in her Giants of Science series. These books include ISAAC NEWTON, SIGMUND FREUD, MARIE CURIE, and ALBET EINSTEIN.
Students may wish to find out more about Leonardo da Vinci by reading the following books:
LEONARDO AND THE DEATH MACHINE, by Robert J. Harris (ages 12 and up)
LEONARDO BEAUTIFUL DREAMER, by Robert Byrd (ages 8 and up)
LEONARDO AND THE FLYING BOY: A STORY ABOUT LEONARDO da VINCI (AGES 4-7)
KATIE AND THE MONA LISA, by James Mayhew (ages 4-7)
LEONARDO da VINCI: THE GENIUS WHO DEFINED THE RENAISSANCE, by john Phillips
THE GENIUS OF LEONARDO, by Guido Visconti
WHAT IN THE WORLD: THE MONA LISA, by Jill Kalz (ages 8-12)
LEONARDO da VINCI: YOUNG ARTIST, WRITER, AND INVENTOR, by George Stanley (ages 8-12) LEONARDO’S SHADOW OR, MY ASTONISHING LIFE AS LEONARDO da VINCI’S SERVANT, by Christopher Grey (Historical Fiction)
Designate a bulletin board for the students to place new facts they learn about the author and scientist through further reading.
Have the students keep a journal similar to da Vinci to record their thoughts, questions, and observations.
Krull, Kathleen. 2005. Leonardo da Vinci. Ill. Kulikov, Boris. New York: Viking. ISBN: 067005920.
2. PLOT SUMMARY
Many people think of Leonardo da Vinci and immediately think of the famous painting, Mona Lisa, (which da Vinci did not name, by the way). Although painting was his livelihood, observing the world around him and trying to understand it was his passion. He devoted the second half of his life to observation, reading, writing, and experimenting, trying to answer burning questions the world did not yet know or that he was curious about.
Krull begins her book, LEONARDO da VINCI, by giving background into what the world was like during the Middle Ages. She then brings the artist and scientist into the drama and explains a little about his upbringing and events that shaped his character and inquisitiveness. He had book knowledge of the world, but was constantly questioning how and why things worked the way they did. He had his own ideas different from any others. For example, he studied birds to determine how to paint wings on angels. He was one of the first scientists to dissect cadavers to understand the inner workings of the human body.
Da Vinci recorded his drawings, theories, findings, thoughts, and reflections in what are now the famous da Vinci Notebooks, worth millions of dollars. From these writings the world understands more about the man behind the artist. Krull explains he was actually more scientist than artist, thinking beyond his time.
3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Kathleen Krull, in her conversion style of writing, brings out the humanness in this genius from the past. Anyone who has ever studied the Mona Lisa must have wondered about the man behind the painting. Although this book does describe da Vinci’s brilliance as an artist, she focuses on the scientist behind this creative man. Krull, through her description of da Vinci, causes the reader to wonder about life during the Renaissance and what it must have felt like to make discoveries and study theories that were then taken as fact (for example that the Earth was the center of the universe and not even a planet)!
Krull also speaks of da Vinci’s notebooks as works of art themselves. In these books are hidden the secrets of this genius from the past. It makes sense to the reader that his thoughts and actions would live through the centuries. Krull gives a heart to this serious artist and scientist.
Boris Kulikov’s occasional pen and paper illustrations add to the understanding of Krull’s text. For example, Kulikov depicts da Vinci writing in his notebook scrawled with mirror image letters that Krull describes. Behind this page peeks out famous drawings for which da Vinci is noted. A table of contents, beginning chapter quotes, extensive descriptions of da Vinci’s remaining notebook pages, a postscript about delving into the man as an artist, a bibliography, websites to visit for further information, and an index are included to aid the reader.
4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
School Library Journal starred review - With a totally captivating opening and a writing style, Krull offers a vivid description of life in the Middle Ages. Readers will come away from this accessible volume with an understanding of who Leonardo was and a desire to know more about this fascinating, brilliant man.
Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books - At Krull’s hands, biography blitzes by at the speed of a well-paced novel…If this volume is a reliable indicator, readers can expect [the series] to combine the depth of a standard-length children’s biography with the gossipy details that make her “Lives of” books so popular…. This fairly begs to be booktalked, and it just might lure some fresh readers over to the biography shelves.”
Horn Book - This lively biography, the initial offering in the Giants of Science series, sets a high standard for the five books to follow…. [Krull’s] narrative voice is filled with energy and wonder.
Publisher's Weekly - starred review - With an inviting, conversational narrative and Boris Kulikov's occasional atmospheric -and-inks, this series launches with an impressive start.
Kirkus Reviews, starred review - Krull manages, in some 100-plus text pages, to present Leonardo's scientific accomplishments while at the same time conveying a sense of the man himself… is no mean feat and bodes well for the succeeding volumes in the series.
CBC/NSTA - Outstanding Science Book of the Year
A Booklinks “Lasting Connection”
A Publishers Weekly - Best Book
A Kirkus - Best Book of the Year
5. CONNECTIONS
Related websites to visit are http://www.kathleenkrull.com/ and http://www.thinkquest.org/3044/
Krull explains to her young readers that she was fired from her first job in a library for reading too much! She also has an interesting BlogSpot at http://www.kathleenkrull.com/. Have the students visit these sites to learn more about the Leonardo da Vinci, Kathleen Krull and her work. Her site also includes a link for teachers.
A video of Kathleen Krull can be found on the Reading Rockets website at: http://www.readingrockets.org/books/interviews/krull. It is interesting for the students to see the actual author speaking about her ideas and books.
Give students opportunities to read other books by this child-friendly author in her Giants of Science series. These books include ISAAC NEWTON, SIGMUND FREUD, MARIE CURIE, and ALBET EINSTEIN.
Students may wish to find out more about Leonardo da Vinci by reading the following books:
LEONARDO AND THE DEATH MACHINE, by Robert J. Harris (ages 12 and up)
LEONARDO BEAUTIFUL DREAMER, by Robert Byrd (ages 8 and up)
LEONARDO AND THE FLYING BOY: A STORY ABOUT LEONARDO da VINCI (AGES 4-7)
KATIE AND THE MONA LISA, by James Mayhew (ages 4-7)
LEONARDO da VINCI: THE GENIUS WHO DEFINED THE RENAISSANCE, by john Phillips
THE GENIUS OF LEONARDO, by Guido Visconti
WHAT IN THE WORLD: THE MONA LISA, by Jill Kalz (ages 8-12)
LEONARDO da VINCI: YOUNG ARTIST, WRITER, AND INVENTOR, by George Stanley (ages 8-12) LEONARDO’S SHADOW OR, MY ASTONISHING LIFE AS LEONARDO da VINCI’S SERVANT, by Christopher Grey (Historical Fiction)
Designate a bulletin board for the students to place new facts they learn about the author and scientist through further reading.
Have the students keep a journal similar to da Vinci to record their thoughts, questions, and observations.
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