Module 15: Angus, Thongs, and Full-Frontal Snogging

Module 15: (December 6-9)

Rennison, L. (1999). Angus, Thongs, and Full-Frontal Snogging. New York, NY: Harper Collins Children's Books.

Summary: Georgia Nicolson is your average 14-year-old girl, who must balance school, family, friends, frenemies, boys, and hormones as she grows up in her seaside British town. Besides that, she thinks her nose is HUGE, and wonders desperately what it is like to be snogged, or kissed. Through her diary entries we follow along as she plays school pranks, tries to keep her wild cat, Angus, from eating the neighbor’s poodle, and meets a Sex God, aka 17-year-old Robbie. Meanwhile, her dad wants the family to move to New Zealand, her little sister keeps peeing in her (Georgia’s) bed, and her best friend is in love with Robbie’s brother. How will everything work out? Does Georgia get the guy? Will they move to New Zealand? How long does that poodle have to live?

My Impressions: I always meant to read this series when I was younger, but I somehow missed out on it. If I had read it back in middle school or high school, I would have found Georgia so relatable and fascinating. This first book was hilarious (especially the glossary at the end), and I didn’t find the content or language too unsurprising for the most part. I was just about Georgia’s age when these books first came out, so I can attest that we were thinking a lot of the same things as she and her friends! Perhaps those seeking to censor it aren’t completely aware of how modern day teens think, talk, or act.

Reviews: “Although performer and comedy writer Rennison clearly owes a large debt to Helen Fielding's Bridget Jones's Diary (1998), her Georgia is a wonderful character whose misadventures are not only hysterically funny but universally recognizable. This "fabbity, fab, fab" novel will leave readers cheering, "Long live the teen!" and anxiously awaiting the promised sequel.”Michael Cart, Booklist*

“British writer Rennison's subject matter may be the stuff of Bridget Jones's Diary, but the wit and bite of her delivery shares more in common with Monty Python. In a spectacular YA debut (Rennison is a comedy writer and columnist), the author creates a winning protagonist in the persona of 14-year-old Georgia Nicolson, whose wry observations and self-deprecating humor covers everything from prudish parents and bed-wetting three-year-old siblings to errant cat behavior and kissing (aka snogging) lessons. Teens will discover that nothing is sacred here (e.g., "Talking of breasts, I'm worried that I may end up like the rest of the women in my family, with just the one bust, like a sort of shelf affair"). Rennison exquisitely captures the fine art of the adolescent ability to turn chaos into stand-up comedy.”—Publisher's Weekly*

*(Both reviews from this site). http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/product-description/0064472272/sr=1-1/qid=1291919653/ref=dp_proddesc_0?ie=UTF8&n=283155&s=books&qid=1291919653&sr=1-1

Library Use: I think one cool thing a library could do is have a display of books with multi-cultural characters/books set in other countries. You could use this series since it is set in England, but you could also do books set in Mexico, India, Japan, Australia, the Middle East, etc., or use books that have characters from those countries living in the United States. I know there are a couple of books that feature a young Middle Eastern teen by Randa Abdel-Fattah that talk about her experiences as someone with both Middle Eastern and American roots. I believe the first book is called Does My Head Look Big in This?, which refers to the head scarf she wears.

Image retrieved from: http://www.amazon.com/Angus-Thongs-Full-Frontal-Snogging-Confessions/dp/0064472272/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1291919653&sr=1-1

Module 14: Gothic! Ten Original Dark Tales

Module 14: (November 29-December 5)

Noyes, D. (ed.). (2004). Gothic! Ten Original Dark Tales. Cambridge, MA: Candlewick Press.

Summary: This book features ten short stories written in the “gothic” style of genre for teens. Some of the stories follow all the same tropes and plot lines of classic gothic literature, while others take the stories and set them in currently creepy stories. Several of the stories have very unexpected endings, and will give the reader thrills and chills. Other stories are beautiful and mysterious, while a couple are absolutely hilarious as they lovingly mock the genre.

My Impressions: I have always loved gothic literature, even though it can be a bit formulaic at times, and this book was a really fun read, though it would have been even more fun to read it around Halloween! Scariest story (also my pick for most unexpected ending): “Morgan Roehmar’s Boys,” weirdest (in a cool way) story: “Watch and Wake,” and funniest story: “Forbidden Brides of the Faceless Slaves in the Nameless House of the Night of Dread Desire” (the title alone is hilarious!). I haven’t read stuff by all of these authors, but I want to now!

Reviews: “The slightly generic cover design and forthrightly generic title of this collection may lead many readers to expect shrieking heroines, dreary castles, lurking vampires, and other tropes of the gothic tradition. They wouldn't be wrong, but they wouldn't be exactly right, either. Sure, many of these original tales…ape the vocabulary of the genre ("necromancer," "escritoire") and play with its abundant clichés (a house has as many "curses as it has spiders and silverfish"). But the maidens in peril still have to do their homework; twisted events are as likely to transpire in American suburbs as in dreary castles; vampires whine about the garlic in the spaghetti sauce and then attack their babysitters. Ideal for high-school literature classes studying Shelley or Stoker (Gaiman's smirking contribution, which toys with genre definitions, would work particularly well in the classroom), this collection also provides an excellent opportunity to introduce fans of Koontz, Rice, and King to some of the most imaginative exponents of YA dark fantasy.”—Jennifer Mattson, American Library Association, Booklist http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/product-description/B003O86J28/sr=1-1/qid=1291920763/ref=dp_proddesc_0?ie=UTF8&n=283155&s=books&qid=1291920763&sr=1-1

Library Use: This book would be great to either feature with other short story collections, or to talk about in a book talk around Halloween, along with other classic “gothic” tales from Poe, Shelley, Stoker, and the Bronte sisters, and maybe even some of the current authors writing books in this genre. It might also be nice to include some of the other books written by the authors of the short stories so if a kid found they liked that author’s style, they could check out the other things they have written as well.

Image retrieved from: http://www.amazon.com/Gothic-Ten-Original-Dark-Tales/dp/0439803632/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1291919510&sr=8-2

Module 13: The Plain Janes

Module 13: (November 15-21)

Castellucci, C. (2007). The Plain Janes. New York, NY: DC Comics.

Summary: The story starts with a bang—literally—as the large city where Jane lives has a section of it blown up by a terrorist. After the attack, Jane’s parents move her to the “safe” suburbs, but formerly shallow Jane is utterly changed by the event, and finds herself an outcast. She eventually befriends three other girls with various versions and spellings of the name “Jane,” and the foursome create a secret group that goes around the town creating “art” in the forgotten places of the city to make the town pay attention to often humanitarian, environmental, or philosophical issues.

My Impressions: I was really shocked by how much I enjoyed this graphic novel! I didn’t know what the plot was when I started it, but I was almost immediately sucked into the story and the main character’s life as I began to read. I loved the messages of identity and beauty, as well as the questions raised about what could be called “art,” and the idea that we can’t let our fear of what “might happen” keep us from living. I just discovered there is a sequel to this graphic novel, and I will definitely be reading it to find out what happens to the Plain Janes!

Reviews: “Castellucci gives each girl a distinct personality, and spirited, compassionate Main Jane is especially captivating. Rugg's drawings aren't in superhero or manga style, but resemble the more spare, clean style of alternative comics creators such as Dan Clowes and Craig Thompson. A thoughtful look at the pressures to conform and the importance of self-expression, this is also a highly accessible read. Regular comics readers will enjoy it, but fans of soul-searching, realistic young adult fiction should know about it as well.—Lisa Goldstein, Brooklyn Public Library, NY. School Library Journal. http://www.amazon.com/Plain-Janes-Minx-Cecil-Castellucci/dp/1401211151/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1290929817&sr=1-1

“The premise is intriguing, relevant, and disturbing, even as the resolution leaves more questions. When is an art attack sabotage, graffiti, or vandalism? How can people reinvent their lives despite fear? DC's new Minx line promises eclectic, real-world stories that honor girls' intelligence and assertiveness, and this title delivers.”—Library Journal. http://libproxy.library.unt.edu:2548/merge_shared/details/RecordDetails.asp?item_uid=65157782&viewItemIndex=0&navPage=1&FullText=&BipAlertQueryString=&BipAlertDisplayQText=

Library Use: I think this graphic novel would be great for a book talk on socially aware graphic novels. The talk might also include the graphic novels Maus, Persepolis, and Pyongyang, all to show that despite the misconceptions by the masses, graphic novels are at times both highly sophisticated in content and illustrations, and are certainly more than just “comic books.” This type of book talk might be ideal for not only skeptical teens, but also parents, teachers, and perhaps even some librarians who are unfamiliar with the genre.

Image retrieved from: http://www.amazon.com/Plain-Janes-Minx-Cecil-Castellucci/dp/1401211151/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1290838224&sr=1-1

Module 12: Nevermore: A Photobiography of Edgar Allan Poe

Module 12: (November 8-14)

Lange, K. E. (2009). Nevermore: A Photobiography of Edgar Allan Poe. Washington, D.C.: National Geographic.

Summary: This “photobiography” illustrates the life and career of Edgar Allan Poe from his tragic youth and his ill-fated marriages and relationships, to his career highs and lows, as well as his increasing descent into madness and addiction, all through photos, illustrations, and letters from his life.

My Impressions: I didn’t really know what to expect when I started reading this book, but I ended up thoroughly enjoying myself! Based on my limited reading of Poe, I could have guessed that he had a dark, tragic background, and this book confirms that. Besides that, I was interested to learn that he was also an addict, alcoholic, and suffered from mental illnesses (it seems like all of the best authors and poets usually have at least one of these problems!). The photos, letters, and illustrations really help, rather than detract from the text as well. I wanted to go out and read some of Poe’s works after this!

Reviews: “The drama of Poe's tortured life unfolds in accessible prose. Textual information is interspersed with photos, artistic interpretations, and revealing quotations presented in script…. This volume offers a fairly complete and thoroughly readable description of Poe's life and his importance to literature. His writing is shown to have grown from his troubled, largely dark, lifetime experiences and the constant longing for connection and love. In addition to his creative writing, Lange discusses popular psychological interpretations of Poe's work and credits him with creating new literary genres such as the detective story and the horror story. The book's brevity and format render it a good addition for reports and background for an author study.”—Renee Steinberg, formerly at Fieldstone Middle School, Montvale, NJ. School Library Journal. http://www.libraryjournal.com/slj/printissue/currentissue/857197-427/grades_5_amp_up.html.csp

“Illustrated with many period photographs as well as pictures of Poe-related places and artifacts, the book has varied, spacious page layouts in which shades of turquoise add color to some of the illustrations and backgrounds. The jacket art, which features a photo of Poe’s face, overlaid with lines of manuscript, peering outward with haunted eyes, will draw both fans of Poe and a new audience. A chronology and lists of quote sources, books, articles, Internet sites, and historical sites conclude this handsome introduction to an American original.”—Carolyn Phelan. Booklist. http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/product-description/142630398X/ref=dp_proddesc_0?ie=UTF8&n=283155&s=books

Library Use: You could use this in a “horror” display (we usually put one up in October for Halloween at my library), or you might also do a display for poets, or an entire display on Poe if there were enough materials, which might include the movies based on his stories, as well as the audio versions. Now that I know we have this book at my library I will recommend it for the photos alone for any students doing projects on Poe!

Image retrieved from: http://www.amazon.com/Nevermore-Photobiography-Edgar-Allan-Photobiographies/dp/142630398X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1290838198&sr=1-1

Module 11: What the World Eats

Module 11 (November 1-7)

D’Alusio, F. (2008). What the World Eats. Berkeley, CA: Tricycle Press.

Summary: The authors of this book wanted to chronicle the food eaten in a week for various families in over 21 different countries, including the United States, Mongolia, Greenland, Bhutan, and Chad. With each family’s section, there is a portrait of all the food that family will eat for the entire week, and the comparisons are startling. Also included are quick facts about each country profiled, as well as a recipe from each family.

My Impressions: This book is all at once incredibly fascinating, incredibly beautiful, and incredibly sad. How lucky we are in the United States and other more “Westernized” nations is undeniable as you flip through this book, and the heartbreaking circumstances of many of the families in this book is at times hard to look at. It is simply amazing how hard some of these families must work each day just to provide food and water for their families. This book gives us things to think about, and hopefully encourages us to do whatever we can to help those around the world in need.

Reviews: “Intended to inform middle-schoolers of the wide variety of food traditions as well as discrepancies in access to adequate nutrition, this collection of photos, essays and statistics will require thoughtful concentration….The plentiful photos are fascinating, offering both intimate glimpses of family life and panoramic views of other lands. Whether used for research or received as a gift from socially conscious adults, this version offers children plenty to chew over—but it’ll take them some time to truly digest.”—Kirkus Book Reviews. http://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/childrens-books/faith-daluisio/what-the-world-eats/

“The main narrative presents friendly, multigenerational portraits of each family, with meals and food preparation an avenue toward understanding their hopes and struggles. A wealth of supporting information—lush color photographs, family recipes, maps, sidebars, etc.—surrounds the text (superb design accomplishes this job harmoniously) and implies questions about global food supplies…. Engrossing and certain to stimulate.”—Publisher’s Weekly. http://www.amazon.com/What-World-Eats-Faith-DAluisio/dp/1582462461/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1290928756&sr=1-1

Library Use: During the discussion boards, one of my classmates mentioned that they used this book as part of a large display at their library that included large poster-sized versions of some of these family portraits, as well as facts about the nations in the books. I thought this was a fantastic idea! If there was a space, it might also be interesting to recreate the amount of food eaten by one of the American families as part of the display, for more of a tangible comparison.

Image retrieved from: http://www.amazon.com/What-World-Eats-WHAT-WORLD/dp/B001TKYWQI/ref=sr_1_28?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1290838147&sr=1-28

Module 10: The Yellow Star: the Legend of King Christian X of Denmark

Module 10: (October 25-31)

Deedy, C. A. (2000). The Yellow Star: the Legend of King Christian X of Denmark. Atlanta, GA: Peachtree Publishers, Ltd.

Summary: This story is a legend based on the events of Nazi occupation during World War II in Denmark. King Christian X was real, though we learn that there is no proof he ever wore the Star of David as he did in the story. In the book, he does this after all the Danish-Jews are ordered to start wearing the star, and his act soon encourages the rest of Denmark to wear the star, showing that they are not divided by religious or ethnicity; they are all Danes.

My Impressions: I haven’t read many (if any) picture books on the Holocaust before, but I think books like these would be a great way to introduce such a dark time in recent history to young readers. Like Lois Lowry’s Number the Stars, this book focuses on the events in Denmark, though I think the latter really shows the depth of their efforts better than this book. They have different audiences, but I kind of wish this book had focused more on what the Danes actually accomplished in their efforts to smuggle their Jewish citizenry to safety over this legend, though I do appreciate the themes of community against inhumane treatment.

Reviews: “This fiction picture book makes clear that the legend about the King of Denmark wearing a Jewish star never happened. Her focus is on the country's wise, beloved king and his support of the Jews. When the Nazis order the Jews to wear yellow stars, the king rides out on his horse wearing a star. Then the Danish people wear stars, "And once again, in the country of Denmark, there were only Danes." Sorensen's large, double-page paintings, close-up portraits and street scenes, express the strong individuality and the community of the Danish people and their bond with their leader. Henry Sorensen's pictures dramatize the confrontation between the Nazi commander and the king, as sepia scenes show the terror that is happening in Poland and elsewhere. In contrast are depictions of the warmth and strength of the Danish people going about their business. Deedy's author's note is an essential part of the book, as it distinguishes legend from fact and states the moral issue for discussion: "What if we could follow that example today against violators of human rights?" –Hazel Rochman. Booklist. http://libproxy.library.unt.edu:2548/merge_shared/details/RecordDetails.asp?item_uid=48415879&viewItemIndex=0&navPage=1&FullText=&BipAlertQueryString=&BipAlertDisplayQText=

Library Use: I don’t know if it would be possible, but it would be really cool to take this book and do some kind of multi-generational library program, or more feasibly a display on World War II. If the program was possible, it would be really interesting to have a presenter come in and talk about World War II for adults and older kids, while younger kids might be read this story. If doing the display, this book, along with Lowry’s Number the Stars, Bartoletti’s Hitler Youth: Growing up in Hitler’s Shadow, and books on various aspects on the war, including the internment of Japanese-Americans in America could be displayed, as well as movies and documentaries on the subject. If there was a lot of space and materials available, it would be great to include various items or photos from that time period as well.

Image retrieved from: http://www.amazon.com/Yellow-Star-Legend-Christian-Denmark/dp/1561452084/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1290838041&sr=1-1

Module 9: The Case of the Missing Marquess: An Enola Holmes Mystery

Module 9: (October 18-24)

Springer, N. (2006). The Case of the Missing Marquess: An Enola Holmes Mystery. New York, NY: Philomel Books.

Summary: In this first book of the Enola Holmes mystery series, we meet young Enola Holmes (the much younger sister of Sherlock), as she tries to solve the mystery of her own mother’s disappearance. Her mother, a burgeoning suffragette of the time taught Enola to be independent, and much to the shock of her elder brothers, a she is now a rather “unladylike” young lady. Faced with a “proper” boarding school, Enola sets out on her own just like her mother before her and creates a life for herself in the crime-riddled Victorian London. Luckily, she has inherited her brother’s skill at detective work and deductive reasoning!

My Impressions: I am not much of a mystery reader usually, but I have always loved historical fiction so this series seemed like a good foray into the mystery genre for me. I love Enola’s spunk and intelligence, but if Sherlock is actually as bossy as he sounds in this book, I think I can skip the Doyle originals! Enola has just the right mix of historical detail, intriguing plot, and well-drawn characters to keep me invested in the story. One day (in my spare time, ha!), I intend to continue reading this series.

Reviews: Nancy Springer has fashioned a courageous, intelligent, resourceful, and utterly unforgettable heroine for this enticing series…. All of the stories are well-plotted, fraught with danger and suspense, and peopled with intriguing characters....Enola is a fully realized character with a convincing and thoroughly entertaining narrative voice. Slightly self-deprecating and always honest, the first-person telling percolates with a winning blend of insight, naiveté, humor, and dazzling moments of self-discovery....Starring a strong, take-charge female heroine, Springer’s books provide a clever twist on the Sherlock oeuvre. Though just as intelligent, daring, and driven as her celebrated older brother—and as willing to jump into the fray—Enola also has an awareness of the intricacies of the secret world of women, and thus possesses knowledge beyond his ken....Her character continues to grow and mature through the various installments of the series, and the combination of self-discovery and whodunit will keep readers returning for more.—School Library Journal. http://www.schoollibraryjournal.com/article/CA6712719.html

Library Use: Enola might be a great introduction for young readers for this type of detective mystery, including the Doyle originals. There are actually numerous juvenile series doing “re-imagined” Holmes stories, or even showing him as a young teen, as he first began to solve crimes. You could probably create a nice list of these series for young readers. Another idea might be to have a “mystery night” program for teens or middle schoolers, where they could talk about mysteries they like, and perhaps solve a mystery or two posed by the librarian. They could also play the murder mystery game “Mafia” where two “detectives” have to figure out who is “murdering” the other “participants” using clues and asking questions.

Image retrieved from: http://www.amazon.com/Case-Missing-Marquess-Holmes-Mystery/dp/B000TWIPDI/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1290838004&sr=1-7

Module 8: The Forest of Hands and Teeth

Module 8: (October 11-17)

Ryan, C. (2009). The Forest of Hands and Teeth. New York, NY: Delacorte Press.

Summary: In this post-apocalyptic future we find a small village surrounded by a fence, which is in turn surrounded by the aptly called “forest of hands and teeth” which is full of “the Unconsecrated,” aka zombies. Mary, the main character, and her fellow villagers believe they are the only human survivors left in the world—a lie perpetuated by the controlling Sisterhood of the village. However, once the town is overrun by the Unconsecrated, Mary and five other survivors must try to make their way through fence-lined paths in an attempt to make it out of the forest alive—or otherwise become Unconsecrated themselves.

My Impressions: I chose to read this book because the title intrigued me, and I almost didn’t keep reading it after about page three when I realized it was about zombies! It wasn’t that I thought I was “above” the subject; mostly I was just a bit freaked out by the concept. I never read anything this scary, and it got pretty creepy at times considering I was reading it late at night in an empty house. The author did such a good job with her descriptions and the building of suspense that I had to leave the light on for awhile before going to sleep! Fans of zombies or other horror novels will probably love this.

Reviews: “Mary’s detached, often pensive narration makes the graphic, gory details all the more biting in a complex story of isolation, longing, perseverance, and survival that ends with a glimmer of hope.”—School Library Journal. http://www.schoollibraryjournal.com/article/CA6699411.html

“In this sci-fi/horror novel, the suspense that Ryan has created from the very first page on entices and tempts readers so that putting the book down is not an option. The author skillfully conceals and reveals just enough information to pique curiosity while also maintaining an atmosphere of creepiness that is expected in a zombie story. Some of the descriptions of death and mutilation of both the Unconsecrated and the living are graphic. The story is riveting, even though it leaves a lot of questions to be explained in the sequel.”—Debra Banna, Sharon Public Library, MA. School Library Journal. http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/product-description/0385736827/sr=1-1/qid=1290931345/ref=dp_proddesc_0?ie=UTF8&n=283155&s=books&qid=1290931345&sr=1-1

Library Use: I actually used this as part of the book talk I did for our teen library volunteers yesterday! The title of my talk was “YA Fantasy, Science Fiction, and Horror.” This book was definitely one of the books I talked about in the horror section! I think girls and boys alike would like this book, though if they are scaredy cats like me, they might not want to read it late at night!

Image retrieved from: http://www.amazon.com/Forest-Hands-Teeth-Paperback/dp/B003EGGLAU/ref=sr_1_12?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1290837951&sr=1-12

Module 8: The Lightning Thief

Module 7: (October 11-17)

Riordan, R. (2005). The Lightning Thief. New York, NY: Miramax Books.

Summary: Percy Jackson thinks he is just your average ADD, dyslexic, human 12-year-old. However, on a field trip his whole life begins to change, and puts him on a path to realize that he is, in fact, not completely human at all, but is actually a demi-god. His mother is human, but is father is Poseidon—that’s right, the Greek god of the sea. He must go to Camp Half-Blood, where he and other young demi-gods get trained to protect themselves from dark forces. Then, he is sent on a quest to clear his father’s name and must face all sorts of mythological evils he had only read about in textbooks.

My Impressions: This series has been wildly popular for some time now, so I was really excited to finally start it! I was certainly not disappointed! Riordan and Percy aren’t quite as amazing as Rowling and Harry, but the formula of “normal” kid discovering his true magical/mythical identity and the whole cast of characters that must inevitably follow is still a winner in my book! I will definitely finish the rest of this series, asap!

Reviews: “"Without sacrificing plot or pacing, Riordan integrates a great deal of mythology into this tale and believably places mythical characters into modern times, often with hilarious results.”—Publisher’s Weekly*

“Riordan's fast-paced adventure is fresh, dangerous, and funny. Percy is an appealing, but reluctant hero, the modernized gods are hilarious, and the parallels to Harry Potter are frequent and obvious. Because Riordan is faithful to the original myths, librarians should be prepared for a rush of readers wanting the classic stories.” –Chris Sherman, Booklist*

*(Both reviews from this site). http://libproxy.library.unt.edu:2548/merge_shared/details/RecordDetails.asp?item_uid=80627560&viewItemIndex=0&navPage=1&FullText=&BipAlertQueryString=&BipAlertDisplayQText=

Library Use: Although I heard the movie version of this book wasn’t fantastic, I still think this is a good candidate for a movie night after reading the book. Sometimes a less-than-satisfying movie version actually makes for a better discussion. You might also have the kids play some kind of board/jeopardy game to match gods and goddesses with their “power,” like mythology trivia. You could also incorporate this book with non-fiction books about Greek and Roman mythology for a display to promote the program.

Image retrieved from: http://www.amazon.com/Lightning-Thief-LIGHTNING-THIEF-Paperback/dp/B002VGZDYY/ref=sr_1_9?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1290837476&sr=1-9

Module 7: Drums, Girls, and Dangerous Pie

Module 7: (October 4-10)

Sonnenblick, J. (2004). Drums, Girls, and Dangerous Pie. New York, NY: Scholastic Press.

Summary: In this book we meet Steven, who loves playing drums more than almost anything. However, when is little brother is diagnosed with leukemia, Steven’s world is turned upside down, and drumming becomes one of the only ways he can cope with the guilt, anger, and fear his brother’s illness has caused. Steven struggles to balance band practice, homework, and the ever increasing void between him and his parents as his brother gets treatment. Eventually the family finds hope that they might all be okay thanks to the kindness of strangers.

My Impressions: I read this book just after I finished Deadline by Chris Crutcher, and I am so glad this had a different ending! I don’t think I could have handled two cancer deaths in one week, especially since Jeffrey was only five-years-old. I think this is a great debut for Sonnenblick, and I hope he keeps writing such heartfelt, complicated characters in the future. I found out in the discussion boards that there is a sequel to this book which I hope to read soon!

Reviews: “First-time author Sonnenblick has pulled off a rare feat. Not only did he make this story about a 13-year-old boy, whose little brother contracts leukemia, real and raw and heart-rending, he made it hysterically funny as well…. the reader falls in love with the brothers, laughing and crying by turns and rooting for both of them until it almost hurts.”—Kirkus Book Reviews. http://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/childrens-books/jordan-sonneblick/drums-girls-and-dangerous-pie/

“A story that could have morphed into melodrama is saved by reality, rawness, and the wit Sonnenblick infuses into Steven's first-person voice. The recriminations, cares, and nightmares that come with a cancer diagnosis are all here, underscored by vomiting, white blood cell counts, and chemotherapy ports. Yet, this is also about regrouping, solidarity, love, and hope. Most important for a middle-grade audience, Sonnenblick shows that even in the midst of tragedy, life goes on, love can flower, and the one thing you can always change is yourself.—Ilene Cooper. Booklist.*

"A brave book . . . Jordan Sonnenblick carries it off with such charm and élan, you forget for a moment your heart is breaking."—Frank McCourt*

*(Both reviews from this site). http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/product-description/0439755204/sr=1-1/qid=1290935033/ref=dp_proddesc_0?ie=UTF8&n=283155&s=books&qid=1290935033&sr=1-1

Library Use: This book might be good for a bibliography of realistic fiction that both boys and girls would like. It might also be possible to do something with main characters that play instruments, like “If you play drums, you might like…” or “If you play guitar you might like…” People that are musically inclined might appreciate a list of characters and books that have similar interests.

Image retrieved from: http://www.amazon.com/Drums-Girls-Dangerous-DANGEROUS-Hardcover/dp/B002VKTYFY/ref=sr_1_16?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1290837247&sr=1-16

Module 7: Deadline

Module 7: (October 4-10)

Crutcher, C. (2007). Deadline. New York, NY: Greenwillow Books.

Summary: In this book we meet 18-year-old Ben, who has just been diagnosed with an aggressive form of leukemia. Without treatment, his doctor gives him a year to live, and even with treatment the odds don’t look good. Ben then decides to hide his illness, and to live the best last year of his life that he can. To accomplish this, he joins the football team (an odd choice for a 123 pound guy), finally talks to and dates the girl of his dreams, and challenges the close-minded ways of his small town. However, he eventually realizes he must tell his friends and family before it’s too late. Along the way many difficult issues are faced, some with surprising results.

My Impressions: I’ve always liked Chris Crutcher. There is something about his writing—the characters he creates, how they speak and think, the truly “real” situations they must face—that I just really appreciate. He is probably one of the most consistently censored authors writing today, but I love that he doesn’t let that stop him. Crutcher does tend to pack a lot of dysfunction into each of his books, and this is no different, but this book really points out the fragility of life even for those of us young enough to still think we are immortal. My favorite line: “Life’s short. Do what you love.”

Reviews: “Crutcher brings his signature blend of sports action and human emotion to this powerful novel. Emotionally spare but deeply touching, the relationship between Ben and his brother will resonate with many readers, while others may find the several strong father figures comforting. Secondary characters add humor and balance, though the government teacher's voice occasionally veers too far toward that of a right-wing pundit….Some discussion of sexual molestation and child abuse is present in the text, but is not graphic or overwhelming in its depiction. Crutcher uses dark humor and self-deprecation effectively to avoid maudlin situations, and teens will appreciate the respectful tone of the work.”—Chris Shoemaker, New York Public Library. School Library Journal. http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/product-description/0060850914/sr=1-1/qid=1290933577/ref=dp_proddesc_0?ie=UTF8&n=283155&s=books&qid=1290933577&sr=1-1

“Crutcher's oeuvre is full of plot-heavy novels; the issues crammed into this one include alcoholism, child molestation, absent/abusive parents, bigotry, teenage motherhood and depression…. Ben's voice often sounds distinctly like the author's, but here's predicting readers will not care one whit. The message at the core of Crutcher's latest-"Life's short. Do what you love."-is delivered inside an entertaining, thought-provoking tearjerker.”—Publisher’s Weekly. http://libproxy.library.unt.edu:2548/merge_shared/details/RecordDetails.asp?item_uid=74228784&viewItemIndex=0&navPage=1&FullText=&BipAlertQueryString=&BipAlertDisplayQText=

Library Use: There is a bit of a trend lately of books written where the main charcter is dying (another is Jenny Downham’s wonderful first novel Before I Die), though it might be horribly depressing to just display or book talk books where you know the main person isn’t going to make it. A slightly less tragic option, would be a book talk about people who are dealing with cancer/other illnesses/addiction, not only in themselves, but also in family members and friends; basically a realistic fiction book talk. Sonnenblick’s Drums, Girls, and Dangerous Pie, would also go great in here—especially since it ends with more hope. You might call the talk “Fictional Teens, Real Issues.”

Image retrieved from: http://www.amazon.com/Deadline-Chris-Crutcher/dp/0060850914/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1290837295&sr=1-1

Module 6: Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key

Module 6: (September 27- October 3)

Gantos, J. (1998). Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key. New York, NY: Farrar, Straus, and Giroux.

Summary: Joey Pigza has always been “wired bad,” just like his grandma and his father before him. He can’t pay attention in school, and is always getting in trouble for his impulsivity. He takes pills to help, but they always seem to wear off, and he is once again bouncing off the walls. Eventually, Joey is sent to a special school where he must learn to cope with his ADHD, and is put on a better medication to help him calm down so he can function more normally.

My Impressions: This book really could have gone several different ways, and Joey could have been so much angrier and hopeless than he was. This poor boy was abandoned multiple times and abused, but he still manages to have such a positive, hopeful attitude. This book was all at once sad, funny, and a true commentary about our school and mental health system. I am so glad a character like Joey exists, if nothing else so kids suffering from similar problems can see that he is not a lost cause, and neither are they.

Reviews: “Gantos creates a strong cast of multidimensional characters. Joey is inherently a good kid and just as his teachers want him to succeed, readers will empathize and feel his emotional and physical bruises. References to alcoholism and abuse add realism to the novel without impeding the flow of the plot. In his first-person narrative, Joey relates incidents that are heart wrenching and humorous. From the powerful opening lines and fast-moving plot to the thoughtful inner dialogue and satisfying conclusion, readers will cheer for Joey, and for the champion in each of us.”—Shawn Brommer, Southern Tier Library System, Painted Post, NY. School Library Journal.*

“Joey's hard-won triumph will reassure children fighting his same battle and offer insight to their peers.”—Publisher’s Weekly.*

*(Both reviews from this site). http://libproxy.library.unt.edu:2548/merge_shared/details/RecordDetails.asp?item_uid=52689381&viewItemIndex=0&navPage=1&FullText=&BipAlertQueryString=&BipAlertDisplayQText=

--National Book Award Finalist, 1998.

Library Use: We actually have an “Accessibility Fair” every year at our library, during which local organizations that specialize in assisting the disabled come to our library and talk about their programs and services. Our Fair is coming up next week, and I am in charge of making the display. I’ve started on it already and as part of it I am incorporating juvenile and YA fiction and non-fiction books about people with both mental and physical disabilities. I plan on putting this book in the section with books about ADD/ADHD. I will also be using Al Capone Does my Shirts for the autism section of my display. I really think it will turn out well, and will showcase just some of the books we have on these topics!

Image retrieved from: http://www.amazon.com/Joey-Pigza-Swallowed-Books-Paperback/dp/B0049P0D8Q/ref=sr_1_11?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1290837154&sr=1-11

Module 5: Diary of a Spider

Module 5: (September 20-26)

Cronin, D. (2005). Diary of a Spider. New York, NY: Joanna Cotler Books.

Summary: This picture book follows Spider as she goes about her days, from school and home, to hanging out with her best friend (Fly). We get a spider’s perspective on things, such as the danger of vacuums, and that you shouldn’t take a nap in a human’s shoe. Children can also learn how spiders eat, fly on the wind, and that “butterflies taste better with a little barbecue sauce.”

My Impressions: I had read Cronin’s Diary of a Fly before this book, and I loved them both! Personally, I was always terrified of bugs us a kid (and still am a bit today), but I feel like these books might have made them a little less scary and mysterious. These illustrations are adorable, and so funny, with multiple “levels” for kids and adults. I will definitely recommend this to parents looking for “funny” picture books, especially for boys.

Reviews: “Children who enjoyed Diary of a Worm (HarperCollins, 2003) will be enchanted by this artistic team's latest collaboration. This time, Spider is the star. Through his humorous diary entries, readers learn about typical events in the life of a young spider. When Spider's mom tells him he's getting too big for his skin, he molts. Fly's feelings are hurt by a thoughtless comment from Daddy Longlegs, and Spider tries to help. He is concerned that he will have to eat leaves and rotten tomatoes when he has a sleepover with Worm…The amusing pen-and-ink and watercolor cartoons, complete with funny asides in dialogue balloons, expand the sublime silliness of some of the scenarios.–Beverly Combs, Webb Middle School, Garland, TX. School Library Journal. http://www.schoollibraryjournal.com/article/CA6435010.html

“Bliss endows his garden-dwellers with faces and the odd hat or other accessory, and creates cozy webs or burrows colorfully decorated with corks, scraps, plastic toys and other human detritus. Spider closes with the notion that we could all get along, “just like me and Fly,” if we but got to know one another. Once again, brilliantly hilarious.” Kirkus Book Reviews. http://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/childrens-books/doreen-cronin/diary-of-a-spider/

Library Use: This book would be great for so many things! You could use it for a story time about bugs, and could have the kids make their own spider during a craft. You could also have a program where kids write their own “diary” for a bug or other animal, encouraging them to learn about the creature by using library resources, practice writing, and use their imagination.

Image retrieved from: http://www.amazon.com/Diary-Spider-Doreen-Cronin/dp/0060001534/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1290836664&sr=1-1