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Applegate, Katherine – The One and Only Ivan.
Illus. by Patricia Castelao, c2012, 320p.
Description –Fiction, animal stories, intermediate chapter book
Review – Ivan the Silverback Gorilla is an artist who lives and sells his work at the Exit 8 Big Top Mall and Video Arcade. While he doesn’t long for freedom himself, he comes to realize that he, and especially the new, young elephant who provides entertainment, are meant for more than this caged life. This is a story of learning to trust your strength and your instincts.
Curriculum Connections – Read-aloud or individual reading for grades 3 - 6 studying themes of friendship, hope, and fair treatment of animals (or all living creatures).
NYS Standards –Common Core Standards in Reading-Literature.
Grade Level – appropriate for grades 3 and up.
Reviewed by – Donna McAndrews, Glencliff Elementary School, Media Specialist 7/12
Applegate, Katherine – The One and Only Ivan
Ilus. by Patricia Castelao © 2012, 320 pages
Description: Fiction, Intermediate grade chapter book
Review: Ivan is a silverback gorilla who was captured as an infant and raised by a human. He is also the star attraction along with his friend, Stella, the elephant, at a rapidly deteriorating mall. Applegate tells Ivan’s story through his own perspective, which is what makes the book so remarkable. Through Ivan’s thoughts, we learn what he is thinking and feeling and wondering as he lives his life in captivity. Applegate’s writing takes the reader on a wave of emotions while learning about Ivan, his past, his friendships and his future fate that children will love and want to learn more about. Applegate based her story on a real silverback gorilla named Ivan and includes a bit of information about him in her book. This is the perfect jumping off point to teachers and students to research more about gorillas or to open up discussions about the controversy around animals in captivity. Applegate has also created a wonderful website (http://theoneandonlyivan.com/ ) complete with a book trailer and a section dedicated to the real Ivan.
Curriculum Connections: A wonderful read aloud for 3-5 classrooms; Could tie into research about gorillas, animals in captivity, zoos, animal advocacy and much more. Theme focuses on friendships, overcoming hardship, animal rights.
Common Core Standards: R.L 4.3, R.L. 4.6
Grade Level: 4th grade; Also suitable for grades 3-5
Reviewed by: Cheri Hart, Enrichment Teacher at Guilderland Central Schools, August 2012
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Aston, Dianna Hutts – A Butterfly is Patient
Illus. by Sylvia Long, ©2011, unp
Description: Nonfiction
Review: This book has beautiful artwork accompanying the facts of a butterfly’s life cycle. This book is overflowing with incredible information about butterflies and their life. Aston also describes a butterfly on each page with a different adjective.
Curriculum Connections: This book can be used as a research resource for older students or as a read aloud for studying butterflies with younger students. It is also a great mentor text for writing nonfiction or writing about a process/cycle.
Common Core Standards: RI: 2, 3, 5; W: 2, 4, 7, 8, 10; SL: 1, 2, 4; L: 3, 4
Recommended Grade Level: 4th grade, but can be used with other grade depending on purpose
Reviewed by: Bonnie Bellville, Van Schaick Grade School, Reading Teacher, 1/13
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Brennan-Nelson, Denise J is for Jack-O’-Lantern (A Halloween Alphabet)
Illus. -Wu, Donald ©2009, 38p
Description: Picture Book, Fiction
Review: This book is a spooky Halloween alphabet book for all ages. It is filled with rhymes and information about the holiday. It is just the right combination of spooky and fun to appeal to kids.
Curriculum Connections: Great book to teach about Halloween and it’s history.
NYS Standards Connections: Social Studies – Standard 1: History of the United States and New York; Standard 2: World History
Grade Levels: 2-5
Reviewed by: Jodi Coppolo, Middleburgh, 4th grade, (1/10)
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Christopher, Matt QB Blitz
© 2011 144 pp.
Genre: Sports Fiction
Review: Matt Christopher still writes sports fiction for elementary students that they love to read. In this book, eighth grader Cal struggles to return to his role as quarterback now that a new, talented football player has entered his middle school. There is constant conflict as the new boy, Jordan, does everything in his power to make Cal look bad to the new coaches and the team.
Curriculum Connections: QB Blitz could be used as a springboard for discussions about bullying and character development.
NYS Standards: ELA Standards 1 – 4
Recommended Grade Level: Grades 3 & 4
Reviewed by Dottie Halligan, AIS Teacher, Sacandaga Elementary, 2/2012
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DiPucchio, Kelly – Grace for President
Illus. by LeUyen Pham, ©2008, 40 p.
Description – Picture Book/Realistic Fiction
Review – This book made me wish school had already started so I could read it to my class. Grace’s teacher hangs a poster of all the U.S. presidents and Grace can’t believe that none of them are girls! Grace ends up running for president against a boy from another class, and the battle is on. She is determined to win, and while her opponent make lots of promises, Grace actually acts on hers. In the end, the best “person” for the job wins.
Curriculum Connections – What a great book to read to any class in a presidential election year. This book naturally lends itself to a discussion of our election process, and gives an excellent overview of the electoral college.
Standards - Social Studies: Standard 5 – Civics, Citizenship & Government
Grade Level – Because of the focus on the electoral college, 4th grade and up
Reviewed by – Sara Warner, Paige Elementary School, 4th Grade Teacher, 8/12
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Evans, Shane W. Underground: Finding the Light to Freedom
Evans, Shane W. ©2011 32 pp.
Genre: Picture Book
Review: With only two or three words for each two-page spread (ex. The fear; We crawl) and powerfully stark pictures, Underground follows the dangerous flight of a family of slaves through the dark nights to the light of freedom. The illustrations are powerful. Each pencil drawing shows dark blue figures against a blue wash with highlights of light. The faces are reminiscent of carved African masks.
Curriculum Connections: This would make a powerful read-aloud to share with a class studying slavery and the Underground Railroad.
Awards: 2012Coretta Scott King Award Winner; Kirkus 2011 Best Books for Children: Picture Books
NYS Standards Connections: The Arts Standard 3; Social Studies Standard 1
Recommended Grade Level: Intermediate Grades
Reviewed by: Dottie Halligan, AIS Reading Teacher at Sacandaga School,Scotia-Glenville, 2/12
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George, Jean Craighead– The Buffalo are Back
©2010 30 pages
Genre- Picture Book
Review – This is an amazing read aloud! The paintings alone speak for themselves. As with George’s novels, this is well written and succinctly tells the tale of what effect humans can have on their environment. The author has told how the Native Americans worked to preserve their environment and how white settlers came and destroyed it. Children of all ages would enjoy this beautiful story.
Suggestions for Classroom Use/ Curriculum Connections – I think this ties in nicely with the fourth and fifth grade US history and/or Native American units of Social Studies. It links literature with social studies in a relaxing way.
NYS Standards Connections – All ELA, SS Std 1
Recommended Grade Level(s) – Grade 4 (all ages)
Reviewed by – Cily Rueda, Scotia Glenville (7/11)
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George, Kristine O’Connell – Emma Dilemma
Illus. by Nancy Carpenter, © 2011, 47p
Description: Poetry
Review: A great collection of poems for older sisters. There are 34 poems that describe the good and bad of being an older sister. The poems are written from the older sister’s, Jess’s, point of view about her younger sister Emma. Many older sisters would be able to make a connection with Jess. The collection of poems tells a wonderful story.
Curriculum Connections: A great mentor text for poetry writing. This text could be a read aloud or available for independent reading.
Awards: Claudia Lewis Award
Common Core Standards: RL: 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 11; W: 4, 10, 11; SL: 1; L: 3
Recommended Grade Level: 4th grade, useful for a variety of levels
Reviewed by: Bonnie Bellville, Van Schaick Grade School, Reading Teacher, 1/13
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Giff, Patricia Reilly – Eleven
©2008, 165 pages
Genre- Fiction
Review – An amazing story set in Upstate NY, about the friendship between a new girl who can’t take her nose out of a book and a boy who struggles to read. Sam McKenzie discovers there are secrets about where he has come from and why he lives with his grandfather to date. Articles and photos he finds lead him and his new friend on a memorable journey to uncover Sam’s past and make sense of the dreams he has and his fear of the number 11. He teaches Caroline to let people into her life and she teaches him to persevere and allow himself to be ‘taught’ how to read.
Suggestions for Classroom Use/ Curriculum Connections – great book to highlight friendship and individual struggles within school and a classroom.
NYS Standards Connections – All ELA
Recommended Grade Level(s) – Grade 4
Reviewed by – Cily Rueda, Scotia Glenville (7/11)
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Giff, Patricia Reilly - Wild Girl
©2009 147 pp.
Description- Fiction novel
Book Review- This novel follows the main character as she immigrates to America from Brazil after the death of her mother. She struggles to reconnect with her father and older brother whom she hasn’t seen in five years as well as fit in at school where she doesn’t speak the language. Read to find out how one horse brings the family together. Horse lovers will appreciate that this family trains and races horses.
Curriculum Connections- Literature Circle paired with In the Year of the Boar and Jackie Robinson and other books that have assimilation to the US as a theme. Other common themes are fitting in and coming of age.
Standards- SS Standard 2- Students will use a variety of intellectual skills to demonstrate their understanding of major ideas, eras, themes, developments, and turning points in world history and examine the broad sweep of history from a variety of perspectives.
Awards- NOMINEE 2011 - Tennessee Volunteer State Book Master List
NOMINEE 2010 - Wyoming Indian Paintbrush Master List
Recommended Grade Level - Grade 4
Reviewed by Ellen DiRienzo Birchwood Elementary 2/2011
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Hathaway, Barbara – Letters to Missy Violet
©2012, 157p.
Description –Historical Fiction –Intermediate grade chapter book
Review - Through a combination of letters and narrative, we learn about Viney’s life growing up in the South as an eleven year old African American girl during the Great Depression. Told from Viney’s point of view, readers learn about school and family life, how she is using the nursing skills she learned from Missy Violet to care for others in her community, and of a run in with the Ku Klux Klan. Students will want to keep reading at the end, to see if Viney’s dream of becoming a nurse comes true.
Curriculum Connections – I think this would be an excellent book to use as either a read aloud or with a guided reading group during Black History month or during a social studies unit about black history in America. There are also some chapters that are letters written by Viney’s cousin, which provide a great opportunity to compare and contrast characters’ points of view and how they effect the story.
Standards – ELA: Reading – RL.5.1, RL.5.2, RL.5.3, RL.5.4, RL.5.5, RL.5.6, RL.5.7
Social Studies – Standard 1 & Standard 5
Grade Level – 4th Grade as a read-aloud, 5th grade and up for guided or independent reading.
Reviewed by – Sara Warner, Paige Elementary, 4th Grade Teacher, 8/12
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Kelly, Katy. Melonhead and the Undercover Operation
Illustrator – Johnson, Gillian, ©2011, 224 p.
Description/Genre –Humorous stories, Realistic fiction, First-person narratives, personal conduct, Intermediate Chapter Book.
Review – Third in the series, Adam “Melonhead” Melon continues on his day-to-day quest for fun, adventure and excitement in his hometown of Washington D.C. Since his adventures usually lead to trouble, his parents continually devise ways to help him think before he acts. He already has the Remind-O-Rama list from his mother, but now his father has given him another tool, the Melon Family Guidelines for Life… instead of telling him what not to do. Melonhead tries to keep them in mind, but when he and Sam (his friend and fellow Junior Special Agent) decide their neighbor is really a criminal on the FBI’s Most Wanted List, undercover duty for the country comes first and plenty goes wrong. Well-intentioned, but misguided, Melonhead eventually comes through for his family, friends and neighbors, and he fixes everything as best as he can.
Curriculum Connections – Could be a read-aloud for grades 3-5 or part of unit of friendship, humorous and realistic adventure stories, such as: Clementine, Alvin Ho, Mallory, Marvin Redpost, Ramona, and Fudge (even Diary of a Wimpy Kid.)
NYS & Common Core Standards Connections –NYS ELA 2-4, and CC RL 4.1-4.10
Recommended 4th grade
Reviewed by – Kim Harmon, Pine Bush Elementary School, Library Media Specialist, (8/12)
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Klise, Kate. 43 Old Cemetery Road, Dying to Meet You,
©2009, 155 Pages
Description/Genre - Realistic Fiction
Review – What a unique book! This book is all told through letters, newspaper articles, manuscripts, and illustrations. From the title I imagined a somewhat scary story, but was surprised to find a lighthearted story about friendship and writing. I loved reading the letters and enjoyed the author’s play on words throughout the book (the characters names all reflect their personality, i.e. the realtor is ‘Anita Sale’).
Suggestions for Classroom Use/ Curriculum Connections – I would use this book to discuss point of view. Each letter written can be used to show different characters perspectives of similar events. You could also use the book in a letter writing unit.
Awards –
Nominated for nine state book awards and named a Junior Library Guild selection
NYS & Common Core Standards Connections – Common Core Standards for Language Arts, Reading, Literature, Anchors 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 9, and 10.
Recommended Grade Level(s) - Grade 4, but also appropriate for grades 3,5,and 6.
Reviewed by – Erin McMahon, Glencliff Elementary, 3rd Grade Teacher, July 2012
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Kooser, Ted – Bag in the Wind
©2010 48 pages
Genre- Picture Book
Review – The life of a plastic bag from landfill to second hand store is uniquely told in this picture book. It shows children what can happen with just one piece of trash and the places it could go. Kooser emphasizes how individuals could reuse simple items and how this alone cleans up the environment. Barry Root does an amazing job with the simple illustrations.
Suggestions for Classroom Use/ Curriculum Connections – I think this ties in nicely with the fourth/fifth grade environmental science units. It talks about recycling and has a note in the back about recycling plastic bags. This is a task that children can easily take on at home with their families.
NYS Standards Connections – All ELA, MST std4 Science
Recommended Grade Level(s) – Grade 4 (all ages)
Reviewed by – Cily Rueda, Scotia Glenville (7/11)
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Korman, Gordon - Swindle
©2008, 252 p.
Description – Realistic fiction, action, adventure
Review – I bought a set of this book last year, but just got around to reading it. This will really appeal to my reluctant readers. The plot is not overly complicated, but there is enough action going on that lends well for making predictions, understanding and being
able to relate to the characters. There is a lot of humor involved, especially with the ending. I am glad that the author has made this a series
(Zoobreak, published fall (2009), and Framed, coming out next fall). My students will want to read the sequels.
Curriculum Connections – Cause and effect, story elements, friendship.
NYS Standards – ELA 1-4, SS4, Health, PE, Family & Consumer Science 2
Grade Level – Great for average 4th grade reader, equally appealing to 5th and 6th graders
Reviewed by – Sue Dyer, Radez Elementary, K-5 Reading, 2/10
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Lowry, Lois – The Willoughbys
Illus. by Lois Lowry, ©2008, 174 p
Description- Fiction
Review – In this book, Lois Lowry writes a parody of old-fashioned children’s books in the style of Lemony Snicket. The story focuses on a family where there is mutual dislike between the 4 children and their parents. The parents, eager to be rid of their children, go off on an adventure, leaving their children with a newly hired nanny. The children encounter an abandoned baby and a grieving billionaire who change their lives forever. The book is filled with sophisticated vocabulary words which are defined in the glossary at the end of the book. As you work your way through the tale, you will be thoroughly entertained by the references to classic children’s books and will be making predictions as to how it will all turn out. A great read!
Suggestions for Classroom Use – This would be a wonderful read for experienced readers or as a read aloud to demonstrate parody, satire.
NYS Standards – ELA 2 and 3
Recommended Grade Level – Grades 4 and 5
Reviewed by – Caryn Feig, Birchwood Elementary School, Special Education Teacher, 7/09
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Lynch, Chris - Cyberia
©2008, 158 p.
Description- Science Fiction
Review – Set in the future, this story takes the term “wired” to the extreme. The main character is a boy named Zane who is so connected that the computer system in his bedroom knows when he wakes up by tracking his breathing and can adjust his diet by analyzing his bodily functions. He appears bored and lonely due to his limited contact with his busy parents because the computer supplies them with all the data they need. But Zane’s life takes an exciting turn when he receives a gift around the same time that his dog, Hugo, is implanted with a microchip. Zane and Hugo can now communicate and the funny, sarcastic and brutally honest dog has an important job for Zane to do – save the animals from an evil veterinarian. Zane‘s initial responses show the reader that he has been de-sensitized by all the technology, but Hugo is persistent because he knows that his best friend will do the right thing. Science fiction blends with adventure as the chase scenes, close calls, scary encounters at the dog track and the Wild Area prove that Dr. Gristle (vet) won’t let a boy and his dog spoil his plans.
Curriculum Connections: This book is a good introduction to the genre of Science Fiction. The author’s use of setting and details make the themes of technology in the future very believable and makes it more appealing by pairing it with a “boy and his dog adventure story.” The humorous banter between Hugo and Zane connect the reader to the characters and generate interest in the next books in the series, Monkey See, Monkey Don’t (’09) and Prime Evil (’10). Another story to pair this with would be Vivian Vande Velde’s Smart Dog (‘98)
NYS Standards Connections: All ELA Standards
Recommended: Grades 4-7
Reviewed by: Kim Harmon, Pine Bush Elementary, SLMS, 8/11
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Maltbie, P. I. Bambino and Mr. Twain
Miyares, Daniel © 2012 40 pp.
Genre: Non-Fiction Picture Book, Biography
Review: When the famous author and humorist, Samuel Clemens’s, wife died, he preferred companion was his daughter’s cat, Bambino. Only when the cat jumps out the window and disappears does Mr. Clemens allow the reporters to interview him. The loving response from the public taught Mr. Clemens a valuable lesson: “There’s a whole world outside of this house to enjoy.” This story is based on a true incident and is accompanied by illustrations that reflect the moods in the story.
Suggestions for Use: The adventures of Tom Sawyer, Becky Thatcher, and Huck Finn are part of America’s common literary background. Whenever possible, I like to humanize the authors of the texts that my students are reading. This text can do that as well as be part of a discussion of coping with grief.
NY Standards: ELA: Reading: Literature & Informational Texts
Recommended Grade Level: Intermediate Grades
Reviewed by Dottie Halligan, AIS teacher, Sacandaga Elementary School, 2/2012
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McDonald, Megan - Solar System Hero
Illustrator: Peter Reynolds
Copyright: 2011 144p.
Description: Fiction, Adventure, Series (Book #5)
Review: Judy Mooney brother, Stink, has become another popular character from Megan McDonald. His personality and relationship with his sister creates many opportunities for personal connections for students reading books within this series. In Solar System Hero, Stink’s favorite planet, Pluto, is taken out of the Milky Way because of its small size, a physical trait Stink (and some students) can relate to. So, Stink makes it his personal business to fight for the right of Pluto, and its place in the solar system. Stink faces challenges along the way, that makes the reader “pull” for him to be successful. The plot is imaginative, but yet shares factual information relating to the solar system. It also lends itself to focus on problem/solutions, persuasive thinking and identifying personal goals. There are themes of humor and comedy presented in the written plot and illustrations which are comic-strip-like.
Curriculum Connections: Science- solar system ELA- persuasive skills, stating and supporting personal opinions
Common Core Standards: ELA Literature and Foundational Skills
Grade Level: 4
Reviewed By: Stacey Betts, Cobleskill-Richmondville Central School, Special Education Teacher, 2/2012
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McLachlan, Patricia – Word After Word After Word
©2010 128 pages
Genre- Fiction
Review – When Ms. Mirabel comes to spend 6 weeks in the fourth grade classroom magic transpires. She teaches the children that they are all writers and that what they have to share are words. Everyday events in their lives can inspire them to write. The children are amazed that poems and stories just come to them. This story will make a nice read-aloud to inspire the timid writers within my new classroom. The words Ms. Mirabel are non-threatening and I think the kids will connect with many of the characters and their personal situations.
Suggestions for Classroom Use/ Curriculum Connections – Read aloud to use with Writer’s Workshop and ELA instruction.
NYS Standards Connections – All ELA
Recommended Grade Level(s) – Grade 4
Reviewed by – Cily Rueda, Scotia Glenville (7/11)
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Michalak, Jamie – The Tale of Despereaux ( A Junior Novelization)
©2008 219p.
Description/Genre- Fiction/Fantasy, Intermediate Grade Chapter Book
Review- At first I was very hesitant to read this book, just because I love and treasure the original,by Kate DiCamillo, a true writing genius in my mind. Then with the movie coming out, I felt the need to quickly read the book. With all this said- I really enjoyed the book. It had many general over tones from the original, but without the length. This is something my lower readers would and could read without getting hung up on the amount of pages, as they have in the past. Also the difference with this book in character names and how the Queen dies ( I won't give it away), had my mind racing between text to text connections. Roscuro a rat, and Despereaux a mouse, two likely foes become friends. When they first met Roscuro actually saves Despereaux 's life. They both try to be part of a group that does not want them. They become friends and bond , until Roscuro's dark side appears. All in all, this book was a wonderful read and a nice surprise ending, that I wasn't expecting.
Suggestions for Classroom Use/Curriculum Connections-This is great for character education. The constant struggle to fit in and be part of a group. Roscuro and Despereaux change and learn lessons that affect both of their lives. Another use that could be tried in the classroom would be to have the students adapt this through a reader's theater.
NYS Standards Connections- ElA3.PK.SP4 Language for Literacy Response and Expression and ARTS4.TH3.: interpret hoe theater reflects the beliefs,issues and events of societies past and present.
Recommended Grade Level(s)-4th grade Also appropriate for 5th grade.
Reviewed By-Regina Anderson Cobleskill-Richmondville School, Reading/Writing Teacher 1-5 1/09
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Murray, Laura – The Gingerbread Man Loose in the School
Illus. by Mike Lowery, ©2011, 30p.
Description – Picture Book
Review – An amusing twist on The Gingerbread Man fairy tale. After the kids in Room 23 bake their gingerbread man, they go out for recess to let him cool. He thinks he’s been forgotten and left behind, so he travels the school in search of the kids who made him. With repetitive text, rhyme and a comic book format, this is a fun read.
Curriculum Connections – This would be a good story to use with fourth graders in a compare/contract activity with the original fairy tale. It could also serve as a foundation for a fairy tale unit in which kids then write their own twists on classic tales.
Standards – ELA: Reading – RF.4.4, RL.4.3, RL.4.4, RL.4.5, RL.4.6, $L.4.7, RL.4.9. , W.4.3, W.4.4, W.4.5
Grade Level – 4
Reviewed by – Sara Warner, Paige Elementary School, 4th Grade Teacher, 8/12
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Newman, Leslea – Hachiko Waits
Illus. Kodaira Machiyo c2008 96p.
Description/Genre- Fiction inspired by a true story, Intermediate Grade Chapter Book
Review- This book was wonderful! It captured the group. It was a tale of dedication between a man and his dog. I read this with my fourth grade reading group. As the reader you get hooked by the dedication and devotion that Hachiko gives his master. I also loved that this was based on on a true story. The simple art/pictures and phrases displayed the beauty of the Japanese culture.
Suggestions for Classroom Use/Curriculum Connections-This is great for character education through the intelligence,devotion and loyalty that Hachiko displays for his master. This book is also good for talking about the diversity of cultures. There are several Japanese phrases through out the book. Some translations can be found in the glossary at the end of the book.
Awards:The ASPCA Henry Bergh Children's Book Honor
NYS Standards Connections- ELA 4.KN.LIN Language for Social Interaction, SS1.2: Cultures SS3: Geography, LOTE 2: Cultural Understanding, ARTS4: Understanding the Cultural Dimensions and Contributions of the Arts
Recommended Grade Level(s)- 4th grade.
Reviewed By-Regina Anderson Cobleskill-Richmondville School, Reading/Writing Teacher 1-5 1/09
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Park, Linda Sue – Keeping Score
©2008, 202 p.
Description- Historical Fiction, Realistic Fiction
Review – If you live in Brooklyn, New York in 1951, you had to be a Dodgers fan. Maggie O and her brother Joey Mick (both named after Joe DiMaggio in some form) are no exception – they even argue about how to be the better fan. Maggie listens to the games on the radio at her father’s firehouse and develops a friendship with a new firefighter named Jim (who is a proud Giants fan.) Jim teaches her how to score a game and Maggie excels at this new skill, hoping that her time and devotion will help “Dem Bums” the Dodgers, finally win a series. Her friend Jim is drafted to the Korean War and Maggie who is worried about him, writes letters to him to keep him connected to their neighborhood and the game. His return letters suddenly stop and to assuage her confusion and worry, Maggie decides to learn about the war in the best way she’ll understand – using maps to chart the war (in a sense, keep score.) She later learns that Jim stopped writing letters because he was discharged from the army for traumatic shock and Maggie tries to help bring her friend home. Maggie is a very sensitive character and cares deeply for her family, friends and team. The tone is very emotional as she comes to terms with everything around her as well as within her.
Curriculum Connections: This story is a great character study, charting Maggie’s growth through her thoughts and actions. The setting and details have many connections to NY state history, Jackie Robinson, and the Korean War.
NYS Standards Connections: All ELA Standards, SS - New York history
Recommended: Gr. 4-7
Reviewed by: Kim Harmon, Pine Bush Elementary, SLMS, 8/11
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Pierce, Lincoln - Big Nate in a Class by Himself
©2010 214 pp.
Description- illustrated novel
Book Review-Any fan of Diary of a Wimpy Kid’s Greg, will find a new friend in Nate. It’s the perfect recommendation for any reluctant reader or your class cartoonist. Every page includes action packed cartoon strips depicting middle school antics. Read along as Nate’s worst school day “surpasses all others!”
Curriculum Connections- Writers’ Workshop demonstrating voice and realistic dialogue
Standards- Standard 2-Speaking and writing/- write original pieces in a variety of literary forms, correctly using the conventions of the genre and using structure and vocabulary to achieve an effect
Recommended Grade Level - Grade 4
Reviewed by Ellen DiRienzo Birchwood Elementary 2/2011 Grade 5
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Riordan, Rick – The Red Pyramid
©2010, 516p.
Description- Fantasy/Egyptology, Intermediate Grade Chapter Book
Review- Who doesn’t love another story about orphans taking on villains and winning? This book follows the formula just as, A Series of Unfortunate Events, 39 Clues, Harry Potter, and Percy Jackson do. All these books combine nonstop action, humor and suspense in a tale of loyalty and adventure. However in this version, we also learn a lot about Egyptology. This makes for a nice companion with the Greek myths of Percy Jackson. Boys and girls alike will identify with the tale as it is told from first Carter then Sadie’s point of view. The next installment is headed your way in May.
Curriculum Connections-Excellent for point of view and character development. In addition you could do a unit on hero/heroines and compare the books mentioned above.
NYS Standards-All ELA Standards apply. Social Studies Standard 2: World History
Awards- School Library Journal Best Book of 2010
Recommended Grade Level- Grade 4
Reviewed by-Carol Herrington, Hillside School, Grade 4 Teacher, 03/2011
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Roland, Timothy – Kooks in the Cafeteria(Comic Guy)
Illus. Roland, Timothy ©2008 92p.
Description/Genre- Fiction/Comic in a narrative format, Intermediate Grade Chapter Book
Review- I love the title in this book- Kooks in the Cafeteria. The 4th grade students I was reading this with picked it up right away. Throughout the whole book- there are many play on words and hidden jokes throughout the text. The children loved to find them and share them with the class. This story told by the main character, Guy Maloney is just your average kid. Guy puts his own spin on his school experiences through the school newspaper. He is a writer and illustrator for the newspaper and the comic strip. While falling asleep in math class one day, Guy gets subjugated to work in the cafeteria as his punishment. Guy helps the truth come out about the head cook, Mrs. Wolf through one of his experiences.
Suggestions for Classroom Use/Curriculum Connections-This is great for character education. It is also great for math concepts. As part of Guy's punishment he has to figure out various quantities of food for the student population, something he has difficulty with, until the end when he finally learns the value of math.
NYS Standards Connections- MST3.04.PS1- MST3.04- 18 Students will build new mathematical knowledge through problem solving and MST3.04.RP2: Reasoning and Proof.
Recommended Grade Level(s)-4th grade
Reviewed By-Regina Anderson Cobleskill-Richmondville School, Reading/Writing Teacher 1-5 1/09
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Rosestock, Barb- The Camping Trip That Changed America
Illus. by Mordicai Gerstein, ©2012, unp
Description- Picture Book/Biography
Review- This book was excellent. It tells the story of Theodore Roosevelt’s visit to see John Muir. Together, they dreamed of a way to save some of America’s beautiful wilderness. They spent time outdoors together, and Teddy Roosevelt eventually started many of the national parks. Although the book contains accurate historical information, it is told in a story style.
Curriculum Connections- The best use for this book would be a read aloud when studying the history of the national parks or of Theodore Roosevelt. The book could also be used to teach about environmental awareness, especially conservation of wildland.
NYS Standards- NYS SS Standard 1
Grade Level- fourth grade
Reviewed by- Sarah Georgian, Elsmere Elementary School, ESL Teacher, 2/12
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Salisbury, Graham - Calvin Coconut: Trouble Magnet
Illus. by Jaqueline Rogers, ©2009, 152p.
Description - Realistic Fiction (First Person)
Review - Great Book! Salsibury uses humor and the culture of Hawaii to tell the story of Calvin Coconut. Calvin seeks to become a responsible fourth grader while dealing with a sixth grade bully, his younger sister, and a tenth grade family friend coming to live with his family. The illustrations by Rogers add to the humor Salsibury captures throughout the book.
Curriculum Connections - Great read aloud for grades three through five. Character Education would be a good fit because of the issues Calvin faces with a sixth grade bully. Can also be used for personal narrative and fictional writing. Great connector if your class is studying other cultures.
Recommended Grade Level - The story is about a fourth grader, but it would also be appropriate for grades 3 and 5.
Reviewed by - Jonathan Younkin, Lincoln Elementary School, Fourth Grader, 2/11
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Stier, Catherine – Today on Election Day
Illus. by David Leonard, ©2012, 30p.
Description – Picture Book – U.S. History and elections
Review – This beautifully illustrated picture book tells the history of voting rights in our country, while also explaining how campaigns are run, national and local elections, ballot issues and what a polling place is like.
Curriculum Connections – Excellent social studies text for 4th grade and up to introduce them to the importance of the right to vote in our country.
Standards – SS Standard 1 – History of the U.S. and NY, SS Standard 5 – Civics, Citizenship & Gov’t
Grade Level – 4 & up
Reviewed by – Sara Warner, Paige Elementary School, 4th Grade Teacher, 8/12
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Tarshis, Lauren - I Survived the Sinking of the Titanic
Illustrator: Peter Reynolds, ©2010 112p.
Description: Realistic/Historical Fiction, Adventure, Series (Book #1)
Review: This story follows 10 year-old George, his sister and their aunt aboard the Titanic. Many students come to this reading with background knowledge. The book contains factual information within the story to clarify, or support, previous understandings; so it lends itself to higher level synthesis. It is face paced, which promotes active interest and engagement. The characters are relevant and realistic, so readers can very quickly become invested in their well-being. George’s initial exploration aboard the Titanic prior to the tragic ice berge incident, proves as invaluable to the survival of him and his family. Students can often foreshadow how his exploration discoveries can help him in a many situations he faces to save his life.
Curriculum Connections: Social Studies- Social classes, economic systems and immigration History- Early Time Periods (societal beliefs, customs and culture)
Common Core Standards: ELA Literature and Foundational Skills
Grade Level: 4
Reviewed By: Stacey Betts, Cobleskill-Richmondville Central School, Special Education Teacher, 2/2012
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Telgemeier, Raina. - Smile.
©2010, 224p.
Description – Graphic Novel, Memoir, intermediate chapter book.
Review – Upon entering middle school Raina wants to be a normal 6th grader. But when she takes a bad fall, the accident severely damages her teeth. The ensuing dental work takes years (all of middle school) to complete and involves a lot of contraptions in her mouth. Her “friends” do not handle this well, and Raina endures years of being the butt of their jokes. Finally when she enters high school she decides to just be herself and not worry about what everyone else thinks (or says). This is a book middle grade girls will love as it reflects so much of their experience. The message is a positive one: be yourself and real friends will like you just the way you are.
Curriculum Connections – good book-club read for students in grades 4 - 7 (especially girls) exploring issues identity, friendship, acceptance of difference, coping with adversity.
NYS Standards –Common Core Standards in Reading-Literature.
Grade Level – appropriate for grades 4 and up.
Reviewed by – Donna McAndrews, Glencliff Elementary School, Media Specialist 7/12
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Vernon, Ursula – DragonBreath: Attack of the Ninja Frogs
©2010 206 pages
Genre- Fiction, fantasy
Review – This is book 2 in the Dragonbreath series, and puts the reader immediately into the fanciful story. The characters are dragons, salamanders, iguanas and many other reptilian and amphibious creatures. When Suki the Salamander (the Japanese exchange student) is being stalked by Ninja Frogs, Danny (the dragon) and Wendell (an iguana) seek the advice of Danny’s great grandfather on how to solve this problem. The story is action packed and combines both comic style (graphic) writing and narrative. This is an excellent pick for reluctant readers. Well-written, but will draw in the lower level readers I think.
Suggestions for Classroom Use/ Curriculum Connections – I see this book as a perfect addition to my fourth grade classroom library, for free choice reading and hope to use it as a hook for some of my lower readers.
.NYS Standards Connections – All ELA
Recommended Grade Level(s) – Grade 4
Reviewed by – Cily Rueda, Scotia Glenville (7/11)
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Voigt, Cynthia– Young Fredle
©2011 227 pages
Genre- Fiction
Review – Very nice story of a young house mouse who suddenly finds himself outside and alone, due to his curiosity. He struggles through many surprises, environments and predators. He learns that with perseverance, confidence and inner strength he can conquer just about anything. When he finds his way back inside he realizes that sometimes the grass IS greener on the other side. Voigt uses interesting characters and brings regular creatures to life for the reader. Wondering if there will be a sequel!
Suggestions for Classroom Use/ Curriculum Connections – Read aloud ; nice character education ties for perseverance
NYS Standards Connections – All ELA
Recommended Grade Level(s) – Grade 4
Reviewed by – Cily Rueda, Scotia Glenville (7/11)
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Woodson, Jacqueline – Pecan Pie Baby
Illus. by Sophie Blackall, ©2010, 32 p.
Description – Picture Book/Realistic Fiction
Review – Gia’s mom is pregnant, and Gia is worried that after the baby is born, her mom won’t have time for her anymore. Throughout the story, she is frustrated that so much attention is being paid to the “ding-dang baby”. Jacqueline Woodson uses such beautiful language to express Gia’s feelings throughout the story. It is a very heartwarming book, and by the end, she realizes that her mom still loves her and learns that she, too, is worried about all the changes a new baby will bring to their family.
Curriculum Connections – This book would be a wonderful addition to a unit on families for the primary grades. As an intermediate level teacher, I think this would be an excellent book to use as an anchor text in a narrative writing or realistic fiction unit.
Standards – Writing: W.4.3., Reading: RL.4.2., RL.4.3., Social Studies Gr. 1: History of my family
Grade Level – 1st grade for a unit about families, 4th grade as an anchor text for writing
Reviewed by – Sara Warner, Paige Elementary School, 4th Grade Teacher, 8/12
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