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***Submitted by current class member
Allen, Kathy - The Human Head
©2009, 32p.
Description - Non-Fiction, Anatomy & Physiology, Life Science
Review - The human head is a complex structure when one takes into account all of the systems (muscular, skeletal, vascular, neural, endocrine, etc.) that are involved in maintaining its homeostasis. Students of science, who are interested in delving into the realm of learning more about human biology and the inner workings of the body, will enjoy this book’s no-frills approach to making extremely difficult-to-grasp concepts inviting and palatable.
Curriculum Connections - Reading level and content is appropriate for a middle school science student who is interested in human anatomy.
Standards -
NYS Intermediate Level Science:
Performance Indicator 1.2 -- Explain the functioning of the major human organ systems and their interactions.
Grade level - Middle School life science class
Reviewed by - Chris Imperial, Science Teacher at Guilderland HS, August 2010
Alter, Stephen - Ghost Letters
©2008 227p.
Description – fiction, poetry
Review – Present, past, ghosts and fortune telling, this book has it all and more. There is a connection between present time Massachusetts and an imaginary old country that is now part of India. Gil and Narjis and Sikander join together to change history. There are many different characters that also help: a ghost postman, a genie, a printers apprentice and a skeletal hand. The story alternates between present and past. The book keeps you involved with action and wondering what will happen next. Will the country of Ajeebarh be saved, will Lawrence be rescued and will Camellia and Ezekiel be reunited? The story is written in a way that has you wondering if the action in India was fact or fiction.
Curriculum Connections – Cause and effect, multicultural and also poetry are covered in this book.
NYS Standards - All ELA Standards
Grade Level - Recommended for grades 6-8 but particularly 7th
Reviewed by- Eileen McGrail, Radez Elementary School, Reading Specialist, 7/2010
Baskin, Nora Raleigh. Anything But Typical
2009, 195 pages.
Description/Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: Jason Blake is a 12-year-old boy who has Autism. Over the course of the next 195 pages, Jason will teach all of us “neurotypicals” just what it is like to live on the spectrum. The only time Jason feels like everyone else is when he is writing. As he says, “When I write, I can be heard. And known”. Jason teaches us what it is like to know you are different and how he survives in a world that doesn’t look too kindly on differences.
I have read numerous books that feature characters with autism. This is the first time I have truly understood what it is like to live with it. Nora Raleigh Baskin is an amazing storyteller who lets the reader see what it is like to live with autism. I know that having read it will make me a better educator as I can now understand a little better what my students who have autism go through on a daily basis.
Suggestions for Classroom Use/Curriculum Connections: Anything But Typical would make an excellent selection for a free read. It could also be used as a read aloud in an English, Health or Science class. In addition, I truly believe every one who works in education should read this book to see what someone with an autism spectrum disorder goes through in the classroom.
NYS Standards:
ELA 1, 2, 3, 4
Science—MST4, LE2
Health—HPF2, HE1
Recommended Grade Levels: 7-8, although I would also feel very comfortable recommending this to a high school student.
Reviewed by: Beth Davis, Berne-Knox-Westerlo Middle/Senior High School, School Library Media Specialist, July, 2009
Booraem, Ellen. The Unnameables
©2008, 316 pages.
Description/Genre: Fantasy
Review: Fourteen-year-old Medford Runyuin loves to carve things out of wood. Even more importantly, he is really good at it. Unfortunately for Medford, he lives on The Island, a utopian society where all are equal and everyone lives by “The Book”. The book, whose full name is A Frugall Compendium of Home Arts and Farme Chores by Capability C. Craft, states that only useful items can be made and have a name. Anything that is decorative or just for show is a waste and should get no name, and those items without a name that seem to waste productive work time in their making are Unnameables. Creating an unnameable can get one banished from the Island.
Medford is already an outcast because he was not born on the Island, but washed ashore as a baby as the result of a shipwreck. He is bullied and made fun of by children and adults alike. The fact that he secretly carves unnameables only can lead to more problems for young Mr. Runyuin. With the help of a strange half-man, half-goat who arrives on the Island, and his few friends, Medford will begin to learn about the many secrets and deceptions taking place on his island home. But will he learn enough in time to avoid banishment? Read The Unnameables by Ellen Booraem and find out.
Normally, I do not enjoy reading fantasy but this book caught my attention right away. It reads more like a work of historical fiction, even with the Goatman character, and there is enough mystery throughout to keep one wanting to read on.
Suggestions for Classroom Use/Curriculum Connections:
This book would be excellent for a free read choice. Even though I am suggesting this for middle schoolers, The Unnameables would be an excellent book to read aloud in a government class.
NYS Standards:
ELA 1, 2, 3, 4
Recommended Grade Levels: 7-8, but I would also be very willing to recommend this book to High Schoolers.
Reviewed by: Beth Davis, Berne-Knox-Westerlo Middle/Senior High School, School Library Media Specialist, July, 2009
Reviewed by-Holly Ackerknecht, G.D. Ryder Elementary, Remedial Reading, 1/09
Collins, Suzanne The Hunger Games
© 2008 374pp
Genre – Fantasy, Adventure
Review – This fascinating adventure story, the first of a trilogy, takes place in a nation ruled by an authoritarian government located where long ago North America existed. Poor, sixteen year-old Katniss is randomly chosen as one of the two “tributes” to represent District 12, formerly Appalachia, in a contrived yearly battle to the death, The Hunger Games. Meanwhile, the Gamemakers control the battle’s environment to keep the game interesting for the TV audience. In a surprisingly non-gruesome account given the premise, she exhibits skill, bravery, and a deepening understanding of the meaning of friendship. This book stimulates the reader to think about the way this government treats its citizens, bringing to mind The Giver by Lois Lowry. My fourth graders have been reading this book, which is definitely inappropriate, but I would highly recommend it to the middle school and older audiences for which it was written.
Curriculum Connections – Could be used in discussions of government powers, character development, and the meaning of friendship
Standards Connections - ELA Reading: Literature standards 2 & 3, Social Studies standards 4 & 5
Awards – ALA Best Books for Young Adults, Booklist Editors’ Choice List, A Hornbook “Fanfare Book, A Kirkus Best Young Adult Book of the Year, etc.
Recommended – Lexile Level 810L, middle school through adult readers
Reviewed by Dottie Halligan, Sacandaga Elementary School, AIS teacher, 2/12
Condi, Ally Matched
©2010, 366 p.
Description/Genre – Science Fiction, Romance (minimal), First person narrative, Middle-High School Chapter Book.
Review – First book of a trilogy set in the future when every aspect of a person’s life is controlled by the government (what you eat, where you work, who you marry, and when you die.) Cassia has blissfully accepted the life decisions that the Society makes for everyone in her life, until a computer glitch hints that her match could have been someone else. Her awakening to this infallibility and the conflicts that arise because of it, causes her to doubt everything and consider a life where she can choose who to love and how to live.
Curriculum Connections – Could be a Read-aloud or part of a literature unit on societies and government studies through the concept of dystopias. Other books to use with this series are: The Giver, Book of Ember, Shadow Children, Hunger Games, Divergent trilogies/series.
Awards - Rhode Island Teen Book Award
NYS & Common Core Standards Connections –NYS ELA 2-4, SS 5 and CC RL8.1-8.10
Recommended 8th grade
Reviewed by – Kim Harmon, Pine Bush Elementary School, Library Media Specialist, (8/12)
Dunkle, Claire The House of Dead Maids
Illus. Arrasmith, Patrick, 2010, 160 p
Genre - Fantasy/horror
Review - Creepy and haunting as young nursemaid Tabby obtains work at the Seldom House tending to “Heathen” an even younger and wild child with secrets. Through the misty moor and old English language, the reader learns that something is peculiar and that the “adults” have a demented plan including sacrifice to ensure crops for the town. The illustrations go along nicely with the ghostly plot and at the end it is revealed that the novel is really a prequel to Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte.
Curriculum Connections - A good spooky read for middle school readers although the language and vocabulary can be a bit difficult due to the British culture. Also there are very appealing illustrations that reluctant readers would eat up!
Awards - No awards
NYS Standards Connections - NYS English 2 & 3
Recommended - Middle school readers
Reviewed by - Katyanna Keyser, B-K-W, English Teacher, (7/12)
Erskine, Kathryn – Mockingbird
©2010, 235 p.
Description – Fiction/Asperger’s Syndrome/Empathy/Schools/Death/School Shootings
Review – This story was not what I was expecting, while choosing a book by its cover. Inside of these light blue pages provoked many emotions that come with dealing with death and Asperger’s Syndrome. This tear-jerking story is about a ten year old girl named Caitlin, who has Asperger’s Syndrome, and in her world, everything is black and white, anything in between is confusing! She has lost the only person who seems to truly understand her, her brother Devon, in a school shooting. Caitlin has to learn how to cope and have closure with such an awful tragedy. The author truly has a special gift of capturing the grief a child, with Asperger’s, and how she goes about her journey in finding closure. I loved getting to know the relationship with Caitlin and her father. In the book she compares them, (after her brother has), to Atticus and Scout from To Kill A Mockingbird. Her father is definitely strong like Atticus and you can see how hard it is for him to cope with the loss of both his wife and son, and in the meantime taking care of Caitlin. He is very patient man, and after losing my father, I feel a strong connection to this character. I would strongly encourage any middle school or high school student to read this book because it has so many good aspects that will help people not only understand Asperger's but also to understand how everyone feels grief a little differently.
Curriculum Connections – A great chapter book for middle and high school aged students, teachers, and adults. This book offers a great connection to dealing with grief, character education, death, Asperger’s Syndrome, school shootings and coping.
Awards – 2010 National Book Award For Young People’s Literature Winner
NYS Standards – Connects to NYS ELA and Core Curriculum Standards
Grade Level- Middle and High School Students/Adults.
Reviewed by- Shelby Murphy-Miller, BKW Elementary, Third Grade Teacher, 8/11
Fforde, Jason – The Last Dragonslayer
© 2012, 287 p.
Description: Fantasy/Humor
Review: In this charming satire with engaging characters, clever word-play, and lots of plot-twists, the death of the last dragon is a highly anticipated event. When that happens, everyone in the kingdom of Hereford, citizens and commercial enterprises alike, will rush in and stake a claim to as much land as possible. King Snodd IV himself is ready to battle the Duke of Brecon over the territory. It is the result of the 400-year-old peace agreement created by the great magician Shandar, stipulating that dragons will not harm anyone outside their newly designated Dragonlands, protected, in turn, from human incursion by a magically charged border. Upsetting the balance is a recent prophecy stating that the last dragon, Maltcassion, will die by the hands of the Last Dragonslayer at noon on Sunday. The identity of that individual turns out to be foundling Jennifer Strange, fifteen-year-old apprentice to the manager of Kazam Mystical Arts Management, an agency which helps old wizards obtain employment in a world of diminishing magic. All await the moment of destiny, as everyone expects Jennifer to slay the serpent, who seems to be on a killing spree after four centuries of no recorded dragon violence. Jennifer knows she must do the right thing, in spite of bribery and threats from the king and other interested parties. In this magical world, however, things are not always as they seem. Readers will appreciate the engaging story, as well as the obvious social commentary. Fans of J. K. Rowling, Terry Pratchett, and Jonathon Stroud will like this novel. Offer it to students who are required to read a fantasy title but don’t typically enjoy the genre.
Curricular Connections: ELA teachers can use this book to demonstrate literary elements, such as satire, irony, and puns. In 6th grade social studies students can explore the dragon as a mythological figure, and at any grade level teachers can discuss xenophobia and alternatives to war. The balance between development and environmental preservation is a possible topic for 7th grade life sciences. The title can be incorporated into character education.
Awards: YALSA Best Fiction for Young Adults 2013; Notable Children's Books of 2012 (New York Times)
Standards: Common Core – RL (Reading Literature): Grades 6-8 (Standards 1-6, 10)
NYS Standards – Social Studies: Standard 3 (Geography) and 4 (Economics); MST4.LE (Science: The Living Environment)
Grade Level: Grades 5-8, although the underlying commentary would be appreciated by high school students as well.
Reviewed by: Diane Leone, Bethlehem Central Middle School, Librarian - 2/1
Fletcher, Ralph - The Sandman
©2008, pp. 32
Genre: Picture book (Fantasy)
Review: This story explains from where the sand you find in your eyes each morning comes. I enjoyed this book for many reasons. Many of my students have already read Ralph Fletcher chapter books—in a memoir study or just as a personal-choice read. So it’s nice to share this and show an author’s versatility. It’s a great introduction to fantasy, as well, especially if, like me, you tend to gravitate away from the longer fantasy choices. I personally plan to use this in my current punctuation study. There are some great examples of uses for ellipses and dashes. Not to mention it’s just a fun book to read aloud!
Curriculum Connections Language Arts: setting; punctuation; fantasy; read aloud
NYS Standards Connections –ELA standards
Recommended Grade Level(s) –Depending on the use, could be used at least through middle school.
Reviewed by – Rebecca Wlazlo, Farnsworth Middle School, Grade 6 LA & SS, March 3, 2011
Grant, Vicki. Nine Doors.
102 pages ©2009
Description: High-Low fiction chapter book for young teenagers.
Review: Teenagers who struggle with reading will find this book well worth their effort. Any student who has ever been bored during summer vacation will recognize the temptation that Emery fell into when he began hanging out with Richard. Emery knew better, he was hesitant, he even planned to say “no,” but he still got caught up in a game of Nicky, Nicky Nine Doors (more commonly known as Ding Dong Ditch). When the police got involved, an older, agoraphobic neighbor helped Emery in surprising ways. This high interest, low reading level book is more than just an interesting read. It could provide the basis for thought provoking discussion about the consequences of teen-age decisions.
Curriculum Connections: A good book to use in conjunction with a health unit on making wise decisions, the consequences of our actions, and giving in to peer pressure.
Standards: Health, Physical Education, and Family and Consumer Sciences
Standard 1-PH & F
Recommended Grade Levels; 7th & 8th Grade Struggling Readers, but may be appropriate for some older students also.
Reviewed by: Mary Jane Brown, Bethlehem Central High School, Special Educator, February, 2011.
Gray, Eva-Tomorrow Girls; Behind the Gates
©2011 216p
Description- Fiction (First Person) Intermediate Grade Chapter Book
Review- Was not too sure about this book, but I like it. The book held my interests; this book is in the future where world war three is happening. Behind the Gates centers around four girls who are sent by their families to a remote school. Readers will find what Louisa and Maddie must do at the school, unbelievable. The end of the book will make you want the series of the story to see what happens
Curriculum Connections-Great for Intermediate grade level. Good for class discussion about the future. A good writing assignment on what they think is in the future.
Standards- Language Arts- Key Ideas and Details -6.3, 7.2; Comprehension and Collaboration- SL 6.1, 7.1
Grade level- Reading level grade 6, useful for 7th grade.
Reviewed by- Darlene Conrad, Ravena-Coeymans-Selkirk Middle School, Teaching Assistant 1/31/2012
Gray, Eva- Run for Cover (Tomorrow Girls # 2)
©2011 217p
Description – Realistic fiction (First Person) Intermediate Grade Chapter Book
Review- This book picks up where book one (Behind the Gates) left off. A great addition to the first book in the series. This one is told from the perspective of Rosie , one of the four girls in the story . When the girls find out what kind of school they were sent to: they find they must leave school at once. The girls and a couple of boys they met in the forest are on the run. I really like the story and hope to find the third and fourth book of this series. Curriculum Connection- Great for intermediate grades. Good writing assignment to tell what they think will happen next in book three “With the Enemy” Standards- Language Arts- Key Ideas and Details- 6.3 7.1 Comprehension and Collaboration-SL 6.1 7.1
Grade level- Reading level grade 6, Useful for 7th grade
Reviewed by- Darlene Conrad, Ravena-Coeymans- Selkirk Middle School Teaching Assistant 2/02/20
Green, Tim – Best of the Best
©2011, 272 p.
Description- Realistic Fiction, Chapter book for grades 6 and up
Review –Another baseball book that my son and I both read. Josh is the 12 year old main character. Josh’s mom and dad are separating and Josh’s dad has a girlfriend. The girlfriend has a son. The son, Marcus (also known as Zamboni) doesn’t get along with Josh. They are on the same All Star baseball team that is trying to make it to the Little League World Series and on the same team of trying to keep their parents apart. My son Jack and I really enjoyed this book because we have been to the Little League World Series and to many of the places where the story took place. There is some tension and drama that makes the reader want to read right to the end!
Curriculum Connections – This book could be used as a read aloud or as independent reading. The story has a strong timeline and a project could be done on recreating that. Another project that I could see being done with a group would be researching the real Little League World series and comparing the story to reality.
NYS Standards – ElA RE 01, RE 03, RE 07, LI 01, LI 02, LI 03, LI 04
Grade Level – This book would be appropriate for 6th, 7th and 8th graders.
Reviewed by – Pam O’Brien, Substitute teacher in various districts. July 17, 2011
Hahn, Downing Mary - All the Lovely Bad Ones
©2008, 182 p.
Description- Mystery/Fantasy Fiction chapter book, First person
Review- Thrilling for the beginner horror enthusiasts. Mischievous Travis and his sister Corey avoid summer camp by going to their Grandmother’s Vermont Bed and Breakfast. Upon arrival they learn the legends associated with the Inn. It’s HAUNTED!!! The children devise a plan to fool the occupants and entertain themselves. They unknowingly awaken the spirits with their pranks. The spirits wreak havoc on the Inn and are more than the siblings bargained for. The children must make things right for the “Lovely Bad Ones” and their Grandmother. The hair-raising conclusion is chilling for even the veteran book reader. This is a quick paced and gripping book for young readers experimenting with genre.
Curriculum Connection- This is a great book for students who are looking to step out of the “Genre Box”. It can also be used to reinforce Character Education themes as it touches on human responsibility, perseverance and overcoming obstacles. English and Social Studies can easily integrate reading to reinforce poverty in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.
Awards:
NYS Standards: ELA Standard 1, 2 and 3. Social Studies Standard 1 and 5
Grade Level: Recommended for students in sixth grade but appropriate for students in grades seven and eight as well.
Reviewed by: Lisa Spadinger, Voorheesville Middle School, Resource Room Teacher/Reading Specialist
Harnett, Sonya – The Midnight Zoo
Illus. by Andrea Offermann, © 2010, 217 p.
Description: Historical Fiction/Fantasy
Review: In this evocatively written allegory/fable set in Eastern Europe during World War II, three Romany children—twelve-year-old Andrej, his nine-year-old brother Tomas and their infant sister Wilma—are escaping from the Nazis, who have murdered their family. Wandering through a landscape devastated by war, the children arrive at a completely bombed-out village with a small zoo, apparently unnoticed, in which a variety of animals, dirty and hungry, remain uncared for. Their caretaker and the zoo owner’s daughter, Alice, is a resistance fighter who has promised to return and free them someday. At this juncture the reader learns more about what happened to the children’s family and friends, as well as the sad backstories of the zoo’s inhabitants, as the animals tell their moving tales to the children. The richness of this story lies in the beautiful language, the magical realism, and the universal themes of war, freedom, innocence, and individual responsibility to others. At the end of the tale, the reader is left to ponder the true meaning of freedom. The ambiguous ending allows the reader to formulate his/her own resolution. This is a deeply affecting story that demands to be read more than once.
Curricular Connections: English teachers should read passages aloud just to expose their students to the rich language and the many literary elements. Grade 8 social studies teachers could use the book to expand student understanding of the Romany people as victims of the Holocaust. In 7th grade science, students could study what wild wild animals need to thrive, and debate the role of zoos in the modern world.
Awards: Best Science Fiction, Fantasy, & Horror 2011 (VOYA); Children’s Books of the Year 2012 – 12 to 14 (Bank Street College); USBBY Outstanding International Books - Grades 6-8: 2012
Standards: Common Core – RL (Reading Literature): Grades 6-8 (Standards 1-4; 6, 11);
NYS Standards – Social Studies: Standard 2 (World History) and 5 (Civics, Citizenship, and Government); MST4.LE (Science: The Living Environment); HPEFCS: Standard 2 (A Safe and Healthy Environment)
Grade Level: Grades 5-8, especially grade 8, although high school students could benefit from the presentation of complex ideas.
Reviewed by: Diane Leone, Bethlehem Central Middle School, Librarian - 2/10/13
Hayles, Marsha – Breathing Room
© 2012, 244 p.
Description/Genre – Historical fiction
Review – Evvy Hoffmeister is in a TB sanatorium in Loon Lake, Minnesote during WW II. The war and anti-Semitism lurk in the shadows as Evvy and her roommates attempt to follow the extensive rules as they try to get healthy enough to get home. The characters in this book are appealing and the chapters are introduced by images of historical documents and popular cultural items of the era.
Suggestions for Classroom Use/ Curriculum Connections – The book would be an excellent companion to History, English, Health and FACs classes.
NYS & Common Core Standards Connections - CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RL.7.3, CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RL.7.4, CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RL.7.9 , CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.7.4, CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RH.6-8.1, CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RH.6-8.4, CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RH.6-8.7, NYS ELA 1, NYS SS 2
Recommended Grade Level(s) – Grade 7, but appropriate for grades 5-9.
Reviewed by – Silvia Meder Lilly, Bethlehem MS/HS LMS, 1/13
Hiaasen, Carl - Chomp
©2012, 290 pp.
Description/Genre – Adventure fiction; Humor; Ecology
Review –Combine an interesting cast of characters, a zany plot, an Everglades backdrop, and a bunch of wild animals, and you end up with a winner. Financial problems prompt Wahoo Cray and his father, Mike, a professional animal wrangler, to contract to work on an Everglades episode of the TV reality show, Expedition Survival!, with diva and so-called “survivalist” Derek Badger. Accompanying them into the Glades is Tuna Gordon, Wahoo’s classmate, who is running away from an abusive alcoholic father. Unfortunately, the TV star’s complete lack of respect for wild animals leads to one disaster after another, resulting ultimately in a madcap chase through the swamps by Wahoo, Mike, and others, to find him. Things go from bad to worse when the gun-toting father of Tuna appears out of nowhere to take his daughter home. Although the story is far-fetched, it is entertaining and instructive, providing information on this diverse habitat and its wildlife. The survival reality show plot device will appeal to young people, who have grown up with this television genre.
Suggestions for Classroom Use/ Curriculum Connections – This title could be used with 7th graders studying wildlife and the environment; to discuss child abuse; to weigh the impact of television and other media on society; and even to encourage students to write scripts of their own for plays and other performances.
Awards –Booklist’s 2012 Top Ten Books on the Environment for Youth; Winner 2012 - Kid's Indie Next List "Inspired Recommendations for Kids from Indie Booksellers;" Starred Review in School Library Journal, 3/1/12
NYS & Common Core Standards Connections – ELA Common Core: Reading Literature (RL); NYS Standards: MST Standard 4 (Science); Social Studies Standard 1 - History of the United States and New York, and Standard 3 – Geography
Recommended Grade Level(s) – Later elementary and middle school, especially grades 5-7, although 4th and 8th graders would enjoy it also, as would older teens and adults. This would be a good supplement to the grade 7 science curriculum.
Reviewed by – Diane Leone, Bethlehem Central Middle School Librarian, July 2012
Hirsch, Jeff – The Eleventh Plague
© 2011, 278 p.
Description: Science Fiction
Review: This is a believable, action-oriented story set in a post-apocalyptic USA after war with the Chinese, who unleashed a virulent P11H3 flu strain--called the Eleventh Plague--on America, killing much of the population. The fifteen-year-old narrator, Stephen Quinn, has been living a survivalist existence with his family for years. He and his father, left comatose after an accident, are rescued by the Green family from the Settler’s Landing community. Stephen sees himself as an outsider, having internalized his recently deceased grandfather’s code of conduct to be self-reliant and distrustful of others. He is drawn to the Green family’s adopted daughter Jenny, whose Chinese ancestry makes her feel like an outsider as well. The two teens’ sense of isolation, exacerbated by prejudice against them by certain people in the community, leads to their carrying out a foolish prank that has dire consequences for the community. It will ultimately force Steven to determine his role, if any, in helping forge a newly fashioned society where peace can prevail. This novel realistically portrays potential scenarios following a terrible cataclysm. The flawed main characters are well-rounded, and their actions are understandable, if not always admirable. This is a cut above some post-apocalyptic titles, asking the reader to ponder the basic ingredients of an enlightened, humane society. It is also a good choice for reluctant readers.
Curricular Connections: ELA students can evaluate the impact of the first person point-of-view narration. This is a useful book for social studies class, in which students can examine the nature of political, social and economic institutions, as well as the role of the individual in society. It can help initiate a discussion of the current relationship between the United States and China. In science class, students can weigh the impact of biological warfare on our world.
Awards: Best Science Fiction, Fantasy & Horror 2011 (VOYA); Young Adult's Choices 2012 (International Reading Assn.)
Standards: Common Core
Reading Literature: 1-7, especially RL 7.3 and 8.3; RL 7.6 - Analyze how an author develops and contrasts the points of view of different characters or narrators in a text; NYS Standards: Social Studies: Standard 1 – History of the United States and New York; 4 – Economics; 5 – Civics, Citizenship, and Government. Science: Standards MST4.LE – The Living Environment
Grade Level: Given the reading level and age of the protagonist, the book is appropriate for middle school, especially grades 7 and 8. Still, high school students would be more capable of analyzing the societal issues.
Reviewed by: Diane Leone, Bethlehem Central Middle School, Media Specialist 2/13
Holm, Jennifer L. - Turtle in Paradise
©2010, p. 185
Description - Fiction/ Realistic
Review - Turtle’s mom has just found a new job as a housekeeper. The only problem is that her daughter is not allowed to come. Eleven year old Turtle must now move into her aunt’s house in the Florida Keys. While in Florida Turtle embarks on many new adventures with her cousins (The Diaper Gang), and unexpectedly gets to know her Grandmother who was always a mystery to Turtle. The story of Turtle is set during the depression and allows the reader to feel and see the effects of this economic devastation on the average person. Through Turtle’s love for movies and the funny pages the reader also can make connections with pop culture during this time. Students will be amazed at the characters lives because they are far from what would be normal today. The mystery that surrounds the characters Turtle meets make for a page turner that any young adult will have a hard time putting down. The descriptions and variety of characters that Jennifer Holm’s uses make for a fantastic read for any young adult.
Curriculum Connections - Read aloud for grades 5 or grade 6. Can be used in correlation with a unit on the depression or a history unit that has a connection to this time in American history.n
NYS Standards - SS1.I.1A,SS1.I.2A,SS1.I.2B,SS1.I.3A,SS1.I.4B
Awards - 2010 Newbury Honor Book
Grade Level - Grade 6
Reviewed by - Jonathan Younkin, Lincoln Elementary School, Grade 4, 2/20
Janeczko, Paul B. – The Dark Game: True Spy Stories
© 2010, 241 pp.
Description/Genre – Nonfiction, History/Adventure
Review – For those who enjoy history, adventure stories, or thrillers, this is a compelling narrative that reads like good fiction. Tracing American espionage from the American Revolution to the end of the twentieth century, Janeczko peppers his book with fascinating characters, from Benedict Arnold to Robert Hanssen, FBI mole of the 1980s and 1990s. For those who think that espionage is purely a man’s game, the author includes the exploits of several legendary women operatives. Just as interesting is the history of increasingly sophisticated espionage techniques. With its self-contained chapters, briefly highlighted topics, and numerous photographs and illustrations, this is the kind of book that a reader can delve into at any point. It is a brief, but excellent, historical overview of the topic and a darn good read.
Suggestions for Classroom Use/ Curriculum Connections – What a great resource this is for American history and even technology. This title could help students better appreciate the complexity of international relations and armed conflict, as well as the personal sacrifice of agents who serve their country. It could also open students’ eyes to the role of women in warfare. From a technological perspective, students would better appreciate the importance of technical know-how in war and espionage. In a discussion of character education, teachers could explore the potential conflict between ethics and espionage. This would be a good choice for reluctant readers.
Awards – YALSA Award for Excellence in Nonfiction: 2011 Finalist
NYS & Common Core Standards Connections –
ELA Common Core: Grades 6-12 - RH (History/Social Studies) 1-10
Social Studies Standards: 1- History of the US and NY; 2 – World History; and 3 – Civics, Citizenship, and Government
MST Standard 4: Students will understand and apply scientific concepts, principles, and theories pertaining to the physical setting and living environment and recognize the historical development of ideas in science.
HPEFCS Standard 2: A Safe and Healthy Environment
Recommended Grade Level(s) – Grades 7- 8, but anyone from grades 6 and up would enjoy the book.
Reviewed by – Diane Leone, Bethlehem Central Middle School librarian, August 2012
Kelley, Jacqueline - The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate
©2009, p. 338
Description - Fiction
Review - One of the greatest books I have ever read! Twelve year old Calpurnia Tate lives in a small town south of Austin at the turn of the twentieth century. Calpurnia lives with her four brothers, mother, father, and grandfather. Calpurnia’s family owns the local cotton gin which makes them a wealthy family compared to others in the area. Calpurnia’s grandfather has always been a strange and somewhat grouchy man to her and her siblings but during the year of 1899 this all changes. Capurnia develops a relationship with her grandfather and through a shared love of science and nature opens Calpurnia’s world up to unimaginable possibilities. These possibilities don’t come without their own problems. Caplurnia’s mother continues to push her into the role of wife and mother and steers her away from those things that truly interest her. As Calpurnia and her grandfather continue to make observations and conduct experiments they stumble upon a mutant species of a specific plant. They both believe they have found a new species and write to the Smithsonian Institute to try to confirm their findings. Jacqueline Kelley does a remarkable job of showing what it was like to live as a woman during this time. Her descriptions of the setting, plants, animals, and characters is remarkable. What is most impressive about this book is that she weaves so many different topics and stories that keep the reader always wanting more.
Curriculum Connections - Read Aloud for sixth grade. A perfect book to start a unit on almost any unit dealing with plants or animals.
Awards - 2010 Newbery Honor Book, 2010 ALA Notable Children’s Book, 2010 YALSA Best Book for Young Adults
NYS Standards - MST4E:Science
Grade Level - Grade 6
Reviewed by - Jonathan Younkin, Lincoln Elementary School, Grade 4, 2/25
Korman, Gordon – Swindle
© 2008, 252 pages
Description-Fiction (Adventure), Chapter Book
Review- This book is a fantastic heist book for kids! When Griffin Bing finds a rare Babe Ruth baseball card, he is tricked into selling it to an unscrupulous collector named S. Wendell (Swindle). When he finds out that the card is worth a million dollars, he devises several plans to get the card back and save his family from financial ruin. In order to get the card back from Swindle, he has to enlist kids in his school with various specialties that can help him pull off the ultimate heist. This book is the ultimate kid power book. It shows kids that they are not to be messed with. Kids too can accomplish their goals, no matter how hard they are to reach!
Curriculum Connections
Science Connections: Forensics-Crime Scene Investigation- Students can analyze the crime scene at Swindell’s house to solve other crimes when studying forensics.
Social Studies Connections: Baseball History-Students can learn about Babe Ruth, one of the greatest players to ever play baseball, the history of baseball, its impact on our country and the traditions associated with the greatest sport ever played. (I’m not at all partial.)
Awards-none
NYS Standards-Science Standard 7: Interdisciplinary Problem Solving: Key Idea 1
Social Studies Intermediate Standard SS1: History of United States and New York: Key Idea SS1.1, SS1.2
Grade Level-4-6 grade
Reviewed by-Jessica Bradshaw, Voorheesville Middle School, 7th Grade Life Science Teacher (1, 2010)
Lane, Andrew – Death Cloud
© 2010, 306 pp.
Description/Genre – Historical Mystery/Adventure
Review – In this first book of the Young Sherlock Holmes series, Lane imagines an exciting origin story for the illustrious sleuth. Young people unfamiliar with the great detective will be introduced to a likeable fourteen-year-old boy whose older brother Mycroft arranges for him to spend the summer at his uncle’s house while his father is called away to military service in India. His boredom in this unfamiliar setting is short-lived as he teams up with street-wise Matty Arnett and his own American tutor, Amyus Crowe, to solve the bizarre circumstances surrounding the seemingly unconnected deaths of two men. Do their facial pustules indicate bubonic plague? What about the strange clouds that seem to hover near their bodies? The reader is taken on a wild ride through 1868 London as Sherlock and company, including Crowe’s daughter Virginia (Sherlock’s budding love interest), endure hair-raising adventures and narrow escapes from a number of shady characters as they get closer to the truth and uncover the mastermind behind a sinister plot to destroy the British Empire. A few caveats: while Sherlock is resourceful, he is not yet a master of deduction, which may be disappointing to Sherlock aficionados. Also, the plot is somewhat over the top. Still, the reader will overlook the shortcomings and enjoy the trip, which leaves a few loose ends for the upcoming titles in the series.
Suggestions for Classroom Use/Curriculum Connections – The book can be used to introduce ELA students to Sherlock Holmes, and to the characteristics of the mystery/detective genre. A teacher may have students explore the history of England and the geography of 19th London. In seventh grade science, readers can investigate the behavior of bees, also a major element in the plot.
Awards – Shortlisted for The Amazing Book Award (2012), a Sussex, England award.
NYS & Common Core Standards Connections –
ELA Common Core RL 1-10; NYS Social Studies: Standard 2 – World History and Standard 3 - Geography; NYS MST Standard 4 – Science
Recommended Grade Level(s) – Grade 7, although anyone from grades 6-8 would enjoy the book.
Reviewed by – Diane Leone, Bethlehem Central Middle School librarian, August 2012
Losure, Mary - The Fairy Ring: Or Elsie and Frances Fool the World
© 2012, 184 pp. (164 pages of text, plus source notes and bibliography)
Description: Nonfiction, Folklore
Review: In our technologically sophisticated world, it is hard to believe that people could be fooled into thinking that fairies exist and can be captured on camera, but that is exactly what happened almost a century ago in Cottingley, England. In this engaging story, after nine-year old Frances mentioned to her family that she had seen little green men and fairies in the woods, she and her fifteen-year-old cousin Elsie produced photographs of these creatures—in reality Elsie’s hand-painted paper cutouts, gummed onto branches and leaves—which fooled many adults, including the famous author, Arthur Conan Doyle. What started out as a lark for the two girls turned into an out-of-control publicity nightmare as they allowed the ruse to continue, with Elsie admitting the truth only toward the end of her life. The author implies that Elsie’s resentment at being teased about her limited intelligence and lack of artistic talent was a motive for the hoax. Interestingly, Losure leaves the reader wondering if Frances really did see fairies, as she claimed even in old age. The book reads like fiction, with copies of the photos in question, as well as a few of Elsie’s drawings. An engaging snapshot of a simpler time in a rustic, fairytale-like setting.
Curricular Connections: In health classes this title would be useful for exploring character education. Students in 8th grade social studies could study the role of spiritualism in the early 20th century. Anyone studying Arthur Conan Doyle would benefit from reading this book, which could be paired with other books about hoaxes, such as Jim Murphy’s The Giant and How He Humbugged America. In technology, students could explore the limitations of early photography.
Awards: 2012 Booklist Top of the List for Youth Nonfiction; starred reviews in School Library Journal and Horn Book
Standards: Common Core – RI (Reading Informational Text): Grades 6-8 (Standards 1-3; 7-8);
NYS Standards – Social Studies: Standard 2 (World History); HPEFCS: Standard 1 (Personal Health and Safety) and 3 (Resource Management); MST: Standard 5 (Technology)
Grade Level: Grades 5-8, although high school and adult readers would enjoy it also.
Reviewed by: Diane Leone, Bethlehem Central Middle School, Media Specialist 2/9/13
Lowry, Lois. – The Willoughbys
©2008, 157 pages.
Description – Intermediate Chapter Book – Fiction
Review – This is a funny, sarcastic and subtle book. Lowry seems to write all the things that nobody else would ever have the nerve to put on paper. She covers so many topics, family, respect, independence, work, death and possibilities. Though it is far-fetched fiction story about a few mixed-up family lifestyles and predicaments it makes the reader think about what is possible in the world and what should be possible. Very clever writing and extremely witty dialogue. Students will enjoy it. I did.
Curriculum Connection – This would be a great book to use when teaching the art of style when you write. There is so much dialogue, vocabulary and meaning in every chapter. It is bound to make intermediate students think about different styles of writing and how they might like to write.
NYS Standards- ELA 2.1.SW2A, ELA2.1.SW2B, ELA2.1.SW2C
Grade Level – Middle School
Reviewed By: Peggy Gillen, Lincoln School, Scotia , New York, 8/08
Lu, Marie - Legend
© 2011, 305 pp.
Description: Science fiction; dystopian literature
Review: This gritty, action-packed novel is set in a future Republic of America, warring with the Colonies for control of North America. Fifteen- year-old Day, child from a Los Angeles slum sector, is the nation’s most wanted criminal, a lone wolf working against a government that brutally exploits and segregates the poor and the less desirable individuals--such as Day and his family--from the upper classes. Accused of killing Metias, an elite captain in the republican military, Day becomes the archenemy of June, Metias’ brilliant younger sister, who goes undercover to trap Day. Unaware of their respective identities, she and Day meet and are immediately attracted to each other. When Day is captured, June begins to question everything she has been taught about the republic and Day, leading to a life-changing decision. In alternate chapters, Day and June’s first –person narratives nicely complement each other, as each character views events from his/her perspective. The violence in a few scenes may be somewhat graphic for sensitive readers; nevertheless, it effectively underscores the brutality of the authorities. Overall, an exciting read that should appeal to those who like their science fiction and adventure sprinkled with romance. It is the first title of a series.
Curricular Connections: This title would be useful in social studies and science classes in discussing the unethical uses of science and technology for nationalistic purposes. ELA teachers could focus on the alternating viewpoints of June and Day as excellent examples of literary perspective. Several exciting scenes are good choices for reading aloud.
Awards: YALSA Best Fiction for Young Adults: 2012
Standards: Common Core - RL: 1-6 (esp. 6 –Explain how an author develops the point of view of the narrator or speaker in a text.) NYS Standards - MST 4: Science; SS: 1, 5
Grade Level: The two characters are 15-years-old; however, the book is appropriate for middle school, especially grades 7 and 8. High school students would probably enjoy it as well.
Reviewed by: Diane Leone, Bethlehem Central Middle School, Media Specialist 2/13
Mass, Wendy -11 Birthdays
©2009, pp. 267
Genre: Fantasy (but reads like Realistic Fiction)
Review: Before I got this book, I saw that it was described as Groundhog Day for middle schoolers. I knew then I had to read it! Wendy Mass is quickly becoming a favorite author of mine. Her writing is quick and efficient—page turner quality. I never feel bogged down and I certainly never find myself skimming through parts. I like that this one touches on serious middle school topics, like friendships and cliques and boy-girl interests, in a fun, lighthearted way. And I really like the theme: A positive outlook can create positive outcomes!
Curriculum Connections Language Arts: theme, point of view, voice; Would make a great read-aloud book—could tie into themes of team building and character education; Can see this used in student book clubs, as well.
AwardsNominated for the 2010-2011: Texas Bluebonnet Award; Rebecca Caudill Young Readers' Book Award, Illinois; Sunshine State Young Readers Award, Florida; Black Eyed Susan Award, Maryland; Volunteer State Book Award, Tennessee; Dorothy Canfield Fisher Book Award, Vermont; Maine Student Book Award; Colorado Children's Book Award; Utah Beehive Children's Fiction Award; West Virginia Children's Choice Book Award; Delaware Diamond State Reading Book Award; Keystone to Reading Book Award, Pennsylvania; Pennsylvania Young Reader's Choice Award; North Carolina Children's Book Award; Rhode Island Children's Book Award; Massachusetts Children's Book Award; And the 2011-2012: Young Hoosier Award, Indiana; Mark Twain Award, Missouri; and chosen as a 2009 Library Guild Selection.
NYS Standards Connections – ELA standards
Recommended Grade Level(s) –Grade 5 and above
Reviewed by – Rebecca Wlazlo, Farnsworth Middle School, Grade 6 LA & SS, February 4, 2011
Mass, Wendy - The Candymakers
©2010, pp. 464
Genre: Mystery
Review: I was really looking forward to Wendy Mass’s latest book, so I was a little nervous my expectations would be too high—they weren’t! I enjoyed this book from cover to cover. Although some of the plot was certainly a bit farfetched, I was too invested in the characters and their stories to care. This book is reminiscent of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, as 4 children spend their time in a candy factory competing to create the world’s next great candy. The subplots, though, are even more interesting, and Mass has woven in enough of a mystery to keep you turning the pages. I also loved how she broke up the book so the reader can see each character’s perspective. It helped me to make a connection to each one of the characters.
Curriculum Connections Language Arts: point of view, voice
NYS Standards Connections – ELA standards
Recommended Grade Level(s) –Grade 5 and above
Reviewed by – Rebecca Wlazlo, Farnsworth Middle School, Grade 6 LA & SS, February 4, 2011
Maas, Wendy Every Soul a Star
©2008, 322 p.
Description- Realistic Fiction, Middle Grade Chapter Book
Review- An entertaining look at the lives of three very different young teenagers and how they all come together to see the phenomenon that is a solar eclipse. Despite all the odds against them Bree, Ally and Jack come together and friendships are formed. Mass does a terrific job of capturing the feelings of adolescents and their struggles to find their way through humor and love.
Curriculum Connections- Would make a great read aloud to tie in with an astronomy unit or to look at point of view since the story is told from three different perspectives.
NYS Standards- ELA 1-4, Mathematics, Science and Technology Standards 1 and 6
Recommended- 7th Grade, but interest level is 6-8
Reviewed by- Nadine Panarese, Radez Elementary, Reading Specialist, 8/09
MacCullough, Carolyn - Once A Witch
©2009, 292 p.
Description: YA fantasy, Witches, Identity, Family
Review: Easily readable and extremely accessible to middle school and early high school students who are experiencing what Tamsin is going through: identity issues, family responsibility, sibling rivalry, and a desire to be independent. But what Tamsin has that’s different is a unique family of witches who have all awakened to their powers by age eight. Her humor have created her witty one-liners that have saved her from feeling like a complete failure until her powers are discovered. Now she must be a leader and go on a quest to finish what she haphazardly started before she realized that she could save her family.
Curriculum Connections: Identity was a keyword in Tamsin’s story, which can easily be used to develop a dialogue with students on their own identity issues during their formative years. Otherwise, it’s just a fun fantasy read.
New York State Standards: Physical Education, Health, FACS Standard 2: Students will demonstrate personally and socially responsible behaviors. They will care for and respect themselves and others. They will recognize threats to the environment and offer appropriate strategies to minimize them. ELA Standard 1: Students will read, write, listen and speak for information and understanding.
Grade Level: 7-10
Reviewer: Alicia Abdul, Albany High School Librarian, 7/2010
Macy, Sue - Bylines: A Photobiography of Nellie Bly
© 2009 64 pages
Description- Biography
Review- Well researched biography of Nellie Bly, a determined woman who tackled controversial issues of her time (1864-1922). This biography is published by National Geographic and contains many photos along with information to further research
and learn about the life of Nellie Bly.
Curriculum Connections- Excellent for middle school students studying biographies. Also, a great source to learn about Americans who made a difference through their actions and/or writing; Writing for social purposes. This biography integrates English and social studies curriculums.
NYS Standards- English Language Arts: Standard 1, Standard 2
Social Studies: Standard 1, Standard 5
Grade Level- Sixth Grade (and up)
Reviewed by- Christine Shiely, Cobleskill-Richmondville Schools, Literacy Specialist 2/10
Marrin, Albert – Flesh & Blood So Cheap: the Triangle Fire and its Legacy
© 2011, 182 pages
Description/Genre - Nonfiction
Review – An indelible part of the organized labor movement, immigration in New York City, and American tragedies, Marrin’s book offers understanding at three critical junctures: before, during, and after the fire to bolster understanding for youth about its significance. The portraits of courageous men and women who inspired action raise the book’s value, while forays into the lives of certain immigrants impeded the story’s significance. Overall, the book is an engaging nonfiction title that showcases how history can still yet repeat itself.
Suggestions for Classroom Use/ Curriculum Connections – Invaluable in understanding textile and clothing manufacturing, supply and demand in economics, and stories of national tragedy during a revolution in garment production at the height of Italian and Russian immigrants to New York City. Similarly, it can be used to profile leaders in history for those with character education and/or offering leadership courses.
Awards – National Book Award finalist, Starred reviews in Booklist, Library Media Connection, Publishers Weekly, and School Library Journal
NYS & Common Core Standards Connections – For social studies, standards 1 (history of United States/New York State, 4 (Economics), and 5 (Civics and Government) as well as 11.RIT.3 in analyzing complex sequences of events and how individuals, ideas, or events interact and develop over the text.
Recommended Grade Level(s) – Great for grades 6-10, but most useful 6--8
Reviewed by – Alicia Abdul, Albany High School, Librarian, 2/2013
Marsden, Carolyn – Take Me with You
©2010, 176 p.
Description- Historical Fiction, Intermediate Grade Chapter Book
Review- Very realistic and easy to relate to. The story takes place in an Italian orphanage after WWII. It follows two young girls, one Caucasian and one biracial, in the orphanage and explores their desires to be adopted. Social, interpersonal, and intrapersonal issues are explored in an age appropriate manner.
Suggestions for Classroom Use / Curriculum Connections- Could be used in connection with character education as issues of identity; racism, resilience, and maintaining friendship a lasting friendship are explored. Additionally, this could be used to enhance a history lesson.
Awards- Parents’ Choice Summer 2010 Book Award; Booklist – Top 10 Historical Novels of 2010; Editors’ Choice of 2010
NYS Standards Connections- Social Studies Standard 2
Recommended Grade Level- Appropriate for middle school grades (5-8)
Reviewed by- Kristi Picard, Colonie High School, Special Education Teacher, 1/11
McKellar, Danica: Kiss My Math: Showing Pre-Algebra Who's Boss
©2009, 352 p.
Description – Non-fiction, Mathematics, Middle Level, Geared toward female students
Review – As with her other works on the subject, McKellar successfully jumps into the murky waters of trying to make a stereotypically boring and difficult subject area more exciting and inviting to female middle school students. With an emphasis on improving girls’ self-esteem and approach to mathematics, which societal myths have deemed a male-friendly course, McKellar helps to open up a world of possibilities; from a teacher perspective, the non-threatening prose and vivid examples are an excellent compliment to any mathematics lesson plan.
Curriculum Connections - Reading level is appropriate for a middle school audience, though I think that some girls in the ninth grade will find some applicability to the content, language, and themes. This is a good resource book for any girl, aged 11-15, who is struggling in mathematics class.
Standards -
NYS Integrated Algebra Standards
A.PS.1 Use a variety of problem solving strategies to understand new mathematical content
A.PS.2 Recognize and understand equivalent representations of a problem situation or a mathematical concept
Grade level - Appropriate for middle school (7th – 8th grade) or ninth grade mathematics
Reviewed by - Chris Imperial, Science Teacher at Guilderland HS, August 2010
McKellar, Danica - Math Doesn’t Suck: How to Survive Middle School Math.
©2008, 320p.
Description - Non-Fiction, Mathematics, Middle School Level
Review - As a science teacher in the ninth grade, I can vouch for the importance of having a solid foundation in mathematics skills in the middle school -- from my perspective, this foundation is crucial to success in high school level mathematics and physical science. McKellar takes a non-traditional and non-textbook approach in making a potentially dull and uninteresting topic for adolescent girls and showing how mathematics can be fun, applicable, and useful. She uses references and examples, such as sibling rivalry and clothes matching, that are meaningful to adolescent girls and helps to increase their enjoyment of a subject that some might pass on.
Curriculum Connections - Reading level and content is appropriate for a middle school level student. I think this would be a great resource for any adolescent girl who is struggling in mathematics.
Standards -
NYS Grade 8 Math Standards:
8.PS.7: Understand that there is no one right way to solve mathematical problems but that different methods have advantages and disadvantages
8.PS.2 Construct appropriate extensions to problem situations
Grade level - Middle School (Grade 7-8) mathematics.
Reviewed by - Chris Imperial, Science Teacher at Guilderland HS, August 2010
Metselaar, Menno and van der Rol, Ruud - Anne Frank: Her life in words and pictures
Translated by Pomerans, Arnold J.© 2009, 216 pages
Description- Nonfiction
Review- The information and pictures in this biography are taken from the archives of The Anne Frank House. Full of background information along with excerpts taken from Ann Frank’s Diary.
Curriculum Connections- Excellent resource to learn about Ann Frank, Germany and the Netherlands during the 1930’s, war and occupation, and Anti-Semitism. The photographs in this book are extraordinary and add to the understanding of the times. The photographs, themselves, could be studied and written about.
NYS Standards- English Language Arts: Standard 1, Standard 2, Standard 3, Standard 4
Social Studies: Standard 2
Awards: USBBY-CBC Outstanding International Book
Grade Level- 6th grade and up
Reviewed by- Christine Shiely, Cobleskill-Richmondville Schools, Literacy Specialist
Meyer, Stephenie – Breaking Dawn
©2008, 768 pages
Description-Science Fiction, Fantasy & Horror
Review-This much anticipated final novel of the Twilight Saga did not disappoint. Once again, we journey with Bella to Forks where we witness her fulfill her destiny. Although the romantic scene of Bella’s wedding night and the gruesome descriptions of the childbirth that take place within the novel may be too much for young readers, it is written as tastefully as possible. It was satisfying to finally have closure to a story that has captivated me like no other. The Twilight Saga is the best series that I have ever read!
Curriculum Connections-Science Connections-Ecology Unit-Symbiosis (mutualism) is illustrated through the interactions of different species (vampire & werewolf); Genetics Unit-We see how Renesmee’s traits are split between her mother and her father.
Awards-NY Times Bestseller
NYS Standards-Science Standard 4: The Living Environment, Key Idea 2, 3, 4 and 5
Grade Level-7-8, reading level, but the content may be for more mature audiences
Reviewed by-Jessica Bradshaw, Voorheesville Middle School, 7th Grade Life Science Teacher (1/09)
Morpurgo, Michael – An Elephant in the Garden
©2011, 195 pp.
Description: This historical fiction is framed as a story (first-person narrative) within a story (third-person). Some of the passages featuring the elephant would be good for reading aloud.
Review: This title is another bittersweet story by the author of War Horse. An elderly nursing home inhabitant, Lizzie, is relating her wartime experiences to her nurse and the nurse’s young son Karl, who reminds her of her younger brother. She tells of her escape as a fifteen-year-old German teen, along with her mother (mufti) and her younger brother Karli, from the horrific 1945 Allied bombing of Dresden. Mufti, who works in the city’s zoo and has learned of the director’s plans to destroy the animals when the bombing begins, rescues an orphaned elephant named Marlene, now accompanying the family on the trek. During their journey, they unexpectedly meet a Canadian parachutist, downed over Dresden and on the run from the Germans. The family, particularly mufti and Lizzie, must come to grips with their feelings toward this enemy soldier. The interactions among these main characters, as well as their interactions with those they meet as they travel toward the west, raise important questions about the meaning of war, loyalty, love, and humanity. The elephant is a focal point in the story, encapsulating love, kindness, and innocence in a world gone mad. While taking a difficult journey with an elephant under these circumstances seems somewhat hard to believe, the story is well-told, and quite moving, bringing this reader to tears.
Curricular Connections:
World War II topics: The book could spark discussion of the controversial firebombing of Dresden, the enmity between the Russians and Germans, the plight of wartime refugees, and the nature of war in general. Students may want to learn more about the true wartime story that inspired the author (see author’s note). Science: The nature of elephants – their behavior and intelligence
Story Structure: The concept of a story within a story
NYS Standards:
ELA Core: Especially 5 and 6 , the analysis of text structure and points of view
Social Studies: 2 - World History, 3 - Geography, 4 – Economics, 5 – Civics, Citizenship, and Government
MST: 4 – Science: The Living Environment
Grade Level: The topic makes this a good choice for middle school students, although the reading level, the animal connection, and the restraint in portraying the horror of war, makes it accessible to grades 4-5.
Reviewed by: Diane Leone, Bethlehem Central Middle School, Media Specialist 2/19
Mortenson, Greg; Listen to the Wind
©2009, pp. 32
Genre: Picture book (nonfiction)
Review: This book is based on the novel Three Cups of Tea—there is also a young reader’s edition. I read the novel when it first came out, but was recently inspired to share the picture book with my 6th graders to encourage participation in the “Pennies From Heaven” fundraiser taking place at our school. (This fundraiser is the author’s creation.) This book is based on the author’s own endeavors in Pakistan. It not only tells his story but also shows it. The illustrations are perhaps better than the story itself. The artist uses collages of different materials—some right from Pakistan—to create the pictures. I enjoyed this picture book better than either of the other editions.
Curriculum Connections Social Studies: World history; Language Arts: perspective, voice; Character education: charity, empathy; Read aloud
NYS Standards Connections – Social Studies & ELA standards
Recommended Grade Level(s) –All!
Reviewed by – Rebecca Wlazlo, Farnsworth Middle School, Grade 6 LA & SS, March 1, 2011
Nelson, Marilyn and Hegman, Tonya S. Pemba’s Song: a Ghost Story
©2008; 109p
Description: Fiction, Mystery, Ghost Story
Review: A wonderful book of mystery as Pemba solves a two hundred year old murder of a slave and her master through psychic visions. It is uniquely told through shifting styles of urban rhythms from Pemba’s daily journal, first person and flashbacks from the ghost of Phyllys, a slave girl. The story unfolds as Pemba is bitter and angry with her mother for moving from her beloved Brooklyn to Colchester, Connecticut. She’s urban and can’t stop thinking about dancing with her friend Raysha. What will she do without her boyfriend, Malik, her “Urban Elf” is always ready to bust it with rhymes and he gets her. To escape the paranormal activity she has been experiencing in her new home, Pemba joins Abraham, an ex Black Panther in his research to help save the Colored School of Colchester. She tries to keep her paranormal visions a secret but one day, her fatigue overtakes her and she tells Abraham everything. Surprisingly, he believes her and stands by her as she attempts to solve the mystery. Pemba is overcome by exhaustion from the embodiment of supernatural forces and ends up hospitalized. When she returns home, she is drawn to connect with Phyllys to put an end to the mystery. It is in this instance she learns the truth which will let Phyllys’ soul free.
Curriculum Connection: Great for classrooms or schools that lack diversity. Can be read aloud to older students to show different a more narrative perspective of slavery and how far north it reached. Pemba’s voice can dispel perceptions of urban students, their lives and the language of urban young adults.
NYS Learning Standards: ELA 1, 2, 3 and 4, Health Standard 2 and 3, Social Studies 1 and 2.
Grade Level: Recommended for students in 8th grade who read at a lower reading level.
Reviewed by: Lisa Spadinger, Voorheesville Middle School, Resource Room Teacher/Reading Specialist, 2/10.
O’Connor, Sheila – Sparrow Road
©2012, 246 pp.
Description/Genre – Realistic Fiction, Mystery
Review – A touching, bittersweet story of Raine, a twelve-year-old girl whose mother, for no apparent reason, moves them for the summer from their home in Milwaukee to a rural artists’ colony, where she has taken a temporary housekeeping position. As the story progresses, Raine learns the reason for this mysterious move—her father, about whom she knows almost nothing, wants to meet her. Interestingly, the colony was once an orphanage, and Raine’s imaginings about the life of one of the orphans impel her to write about her own emotions, thus helping her come to grips with both her feelings of abandonment by her father, and the future she can have with him. The author nicely juxtaposes the unfolding mystery of the orphanage and its children with Raine’s unfolding understanding of her own life. The well developed adult characters and the role of art in restoring well-being enrich the story. This is a slowly developing, multilayered narrative that will reward the reader.
Suggestions for Classroom Use/ Curriculum Connections – This book would be useful in encouraging students to write about their own feelings and experiences, just as Raine does. It could also spur a discussion of the importance of art in elevating one’s life. In social studies, students could investigate the role of orphanages in the context of American social reform. Young people struggling with parents’ separation or divorce might identify with Raine’s experience in the book.
Awards - IRA Children’s and Young Adults’ Book Award – Intermediate Fiction(2012),Booklist Editors’ Choice – Books for Youth – Middle Readers Category: 2011
NYS & Common Core Standards Connections -ELA Common Core: RL 1-10; NYS Learning Standards: The Arts 1-5; Social Studies 1– History of the United States and New York; HPEFCS 2 - A Safe and Healthy Environment.
Recommended Grade Level(s) – Grade 6, although anyone from grades 5-8 would enjoy the book.
Reviewed by – Diane Leone, Bethlehem Central Middle School librarian, August 2012
Paratore, Coleen Murtagh- Willa by Heart
©2008, 223 p.
Description- Fiction, Third in the Wedding Planner’s Daughter Series, Middle Grade Chapter Book
Review- A captivating and humorous romance sure to delight pre-teens everywhere. Willa is a delightful character who shows the struggles of adolescents as she comes to terms with the thought of a new sibling, the idea of losing her boyfriend and acting career to another girl and also of acceptance of new and different people. Paratore’s love of Cape Cod abounds in this book and makes the reader want to move there.
Curriculum Connections- A great independent read for students who are struggling with changes in their family dynamics or a reminder in character education of the importance of acceptance of others who come from different socio-economic backgrounds.
NYS Standards- ELA 1-4 and Health, Physical Education, and
Family and Consumer Sciences 1 and 3
Recommended- 6th Grade, but interest level is 5-8
Reviewed by- Nadine Panarese, Radez Elementary, reading Specialist, 8/09
Park, Linda Sue- A Long Walk to Water
©2010, 120 p.
Description – Fictionalized history – A Long Walk to Water is based on a true story. Review – The story of Salva Dut, one of the “lost boys of Sudan,” is a gripping account of a young boy who at age eleven runs out of his school with other students to escape the attacks of soldiers during the war in Sudan that began in 1983. After years of living in refugee camps in Ethiopia and Kenya, Salva was sponsored by a family in Rochester, NY and eventually started a non-profit to build wells in Sudan. Park alternates segments of Salva’s story with descriptions of the fictional Nya and her family who live in a village that eventually is the site of one of the wells. A wonderful way to teach children about the geography of East Africa and about its recent history.
Curriculum Connections – This book could be used in any social studies unit on modern Africa, current events, refugees or as part of a thematic English literature unit such as “making a difference.”
NYS Standards Connections – Social Studies 2 & 3
Recommended Grade Level – Grades 6-8
Reviewed By – Mary Jane Brown, Special Educator, Bethlehem Central High School, Special Educator, January, 2011.
Patterson, James – Middle School: The worst years of my life.
Illus. by Laura Park, ©2011 281p.
Description-Realistic Fiction ( First Person), Intermediate Grade Chapter Book.
Review- Rafe Khalchadorian enters middle school and feels out of place. Trying
to fit in, he creates a game to make school more fun. The game is to try to break every rule in the school code of conduct book. He has a teammate to help him “Leo the Select”. The ending will surprise all.
Curriculum Connections- Fun reading for intermediate grade. Character Education in misconduct and what a great imagination can do. Could also be a lesson in what can happen for bad behavior.
Standards- Personal Health and Fitness-HPF 2, HPF, Arts-1,2,3,and 4.
Awards – Children’s Choice Book Award.
Grade Level- The story takes place in a middle school, 6th-8th grades, 5th graders may enjoy the book before they get to the middle school.
Reviewed by – Darlene Conrad, Ravena- Coeymans-Selkirk middle school, Teaching Assistant.
Philbrick, Rodman The Mostly True Adventures of Homer P. Figg
©2009, 216 p.
Description- Historic fiction, told in the first person, appropriate for 6th grade and up
Review – At first, I didn’t think I would like the book, but after a chapter or two I couldn’t put it down. The story takes place during the Civil War. Homer is an orphan and lives with a mean uncle who sells Homer’s older brother to the Army for money. The story is about how Homer searches for his brother Harold. Homer has trouble telling the truth straight up. He likes to embellish and he finds it useful as he gets caught up in one bad situation after the other. If Homer didn’t have bad luck, he wouldn’t have any luck at all. I love the way the story is almost over the top! The action is fantastic, Homer rides a train, a steamship, an old horse, a hot air balloon and a pony. Homer ends up at the Battle of Gettysburg. How cool is that? Well it is pretty scary as bullets are flying. This book finishes with lots of vocabulary and facts about the Civil war for those readers who want to know the facts (especially since you can’t be sure that Homer is telling the truth!).
Curriculum Connections – What a way to start a unit on the Civil War! Students could try and find out if any of the events described had really happened or could have happened; for example, did the Union Army really use hot air balloons to spy? This book would make a great read aloud. The students would be begging to hear if Homer made it out of trouble or not. The book could also be used to talk about first person perspective or even memoirs.
Awards - 2010 Newbery Honor book
NYS Standards – ELA RE 01, ELA RE 03, ELA RE 07, LI 01, LI 02, LI 03, LI 04, SS2.E.2A, SS2.C.2C, SS2.C.2D, SS2.C.2E
Grade Level – 6th grade
Reviewed by – Pam O’Brien, Substitute teacher in various districts. August 11, 2011
Polacco, Patricia- The Junkyard Wonders
©2010, pp. 48
Genre: Picture Book
Review: I often use picture books to help me teach writing. Patricia Polacco has long been an author I turn to in order to teach elements of craft and voice. I have now moved this book up to the top of my mentor text list. This book is beautifully crafted—not to mention that it tells the story of Polacco’s own experiences as a struggling student in a class referred to as “the Junkyard.” It’s a sweet story of believing in oneself and overcoming obstacles—with the help of friends and teachers. I also love that she uses punctuation to help her writing sound a certain way. It was well worth the investment.
Curriculum Connections Language Arts: punctuation study, writer’s craft; Character education, team building
NYS Standards Connections – ELA standards
Recommended Grade Level(s) –Grades 6 – 8 (as a mentor text)
Reviewed by – Rebecca Wlazlo, Farnsworth Middle School, Grade 6 LA & SS, February 17, 2011
Preller, James – Bystander
c. 2009, 226 p.
Description: Realistic Fiction (third person), middle school chapter book
Review: This book takes a serious look at bullying, its consequences, and the complicated relationships among the bully, the victim, and the bystander. As a new student at his middle school, Eric Hayes witnesses the bullying behavior of Griffin Connelly and his friends toward another student. Ashamed of his role as a bystander, he attempts to help the victim, David Hallenback, only to find that the victim is rather ambivalent about his role, and that Eric himself becomes a victim of Griffin himself.
Curriculum Connections: This is an excellent jumping off point for the discussion of bullying, particularly in middle school, the setting of the story. Divorce and mental illness are also background issues in the story, as Eric is struggling with his parents’ split due to his father’s schizophrenia.
NYS Standards: HPEFCS: Personal Health and Fitness (1); Safe and Healthy Environment (2) MST: Science – The Living Environment
Awards: 2012 NYS Charlotte Award nominee (middle school level)
Grade Level: The 7th grade setting makes it ideal for middle school, but 5th graders could appreciate the book as well.
Reviewed by: Diane Leone, Bethlehem Central Middle School, Media Specialist 2/12
Preller, James. - Bystander.
2009, 256p.
Description – Realistic fiction, intermediate chapter book.
Review – Eric’s family moves to his mom’s hometown after their father, who suffers from severe mental health issues, leaves the family. Eric enters a new middle school as a seventh grader and is quickly pulled into a social group led by the bullying, Griffin Connelly. Eric does not like Griffin’s treatment of an unpopular student, David Hallenback, but as the new kid he fears similar treatment so he tends to do nothing. Eventually Eric loses tolerance for the bullying behavior, but David actually turns on him, leading Eric into a trap where he is beaten up. This book is very true-to-life and offers a perfect discussion-starter for middle grade classes about the topic of bullying. The ultimate message is a hopeful one. Eric turns out to be a leader, helping other boys see that real friendships are based on common interests and goals, not on fear and intimidation.
Curriculum Connections – excellent middle grade read-aloud or book club read; addresses issues of bullying, mental health, tween relationships, single parenthood.
Awards: Dorothy Canfield Fisher Children's Book Award Nominee (2011)
NYS Standards –Common Core Standards in Reading-Literature.
Grade Level – appropriate for grades 5 - 8.
Reviewed by – Donna McAndrews, Glencliff Elementary School, Media Specialist 7/12
Prose, Francine – The Turning
© 2012, 246 p.
Description: Gothic Horror, Psychological Thriller
Review: In a reworking of Henry James’s The Turn of the Screw, the author tells a haunting tale. Writing in letter format to his girlfriend Sophie, and occasionally his father, high school senior Jack has taken a summer job as babysitter for sibling orphans, Miles and Flora, on an island with no modern conveniences. In the dark foreboding house, Jack lives with cook and caretaker Linda, as well as the seemingly too-perfect children. Linda tells Jack the tragic history enveloping the island, including the shooting deaths on the mainland of a previous governess, Lucy, and the handyman, Norris, who had a secretive romantic involvement and an unsettling influence on the children. Jack realizes he has been seeing their ghosts! His letters to Sophie reflect his progressive psychological and physical decline, as he accuses her of cheating with her ex-boyfriend, and speculates that Linda and the children are keeping secrets from him. While the foreshadowing is sometimes a bit obvious, the author builds tension as Jack becomes obsessed with his increasingly strange visions, especially those of Lucy. The most intriguing aspect of the book is the unreliable narrator; is he becoming unhinged, is he suffering from a physical ailment causing his bizarre behavior, or is he the victim of supernatural forces? Unfortunately, the ending leaves too many questions unanswered. Still, it is a good read for middle school students, especially reluctant readers and those who like less ghoulish horror.
Curricular Connections: An ELA teacher could compare and contrast this title with The Turn of the Screw, or with one of the movie versions of that book. The book is also is a good example of the use of literary elements, such as setting, mood, foreshadowing, and the unreliable narrator, to name a few.
Awards: ?
Standards: Common Core
Reading Literature: 1-7, especially RL 3 - Analyze how particular elements of a story or drama interact; RL 6 - Analyze how an author develops and contrasts the points of view of different characters or narrators in a text; RL 7 - Compare and contrast a written story, drama, or poem to its audio, filmed, staged, or multimedia version, analyzing the effects of techniques unique to each medium.
Language: L5 - Demonstrate understanding of figurative language, word relationships, and nuances in word meanings.
Grade Level: The main character is a high school senior; however, the book seems more appropriate for middle school, especially grades 7 and 8.
Reviewed by: Diane Leone, Bethlehem Central Middle School, Media Specialist 2/13
Riordan, Rick; The Maze of Bones: The 39 Clues Book 1
©2008, pp. 220
Genre: Mystery/Adventure
Review: I picked up this book after overhearing a few students talking about searching for clues on the Internet. Come to find out, the series isn’t just about the books; there are also collectible cards and an online game in which readers can compete for prizes. But the book stands on its own and doesn’t really need the marketing hoopla. I thoroughly enjoyed it and whipped through it on one plane ride. It puts children in the driver’s seat of an interesting family mystery. It even pulls in some history—although some “facts” may be a stretch. I also like that each of the books in the series is written by a different author.
Curriculum Connections Social Studies: American History; Language Arts: point of view, setting, voice
NYS Standards Connections – NYS Social Studies Standard, American History (although it’s a stretch)
Recommended Grade Level(s) –Grade 6
Reviewed by – Rebecca Wlazlo, Farnsworth Middle School, Grade 6 LA & SS, February 28, 2011
Riordan, Rick – Percy Jackson and the Olympians Book Four: The Battle of the Labyrinth
© 2008, 361 pages
Description-Science Fiction and Fantasy, Fiction, Chapter Book, 1st Person
Review-Percy Jackson is the hero of the day! In this story, Percy and company are on a quest that takes the young demigods into the labyrinth created by Daedalus (think Evil King Minos and Icarus-don’t fly too high to the sun or too low into the water). The young heros need to travel through the labyrinth to try to stop Lord Kronos’ army from invading Camp Half Blood. The labyrinth itself can be an enemy that drives you insane. While exploring the labyrinth, the adventurers come across many infamous mythological characters that they have to battle. This story once again uses clever insight and action to introduce young readers to the amazing stories of the past while keeping a modern edge that is easy to read and entertaining. Kids and adults alike can get lost into the world that Rick Riordan has created.
Curriculum Connections- Social Studies Connections: The story discusses many cultural aspects of Ancient Greece, Greek Gods and Goddesses and Greek Mythology. It specifically addresses story of Daedalus, Icarus, King Minos and the Labyrinth.
Science Connections-Genetics Nature vs. Nurture: Children sometimes act like their parents because of the genes that they inherited from them. Other times the genetics that parents gave them have little impact on their behavior because of the environment that they were raised in (Nature vs. Nurture). This phenomenon is seen in the book on an individual basis as individuals decide which side of the war they will support (Lord Kronos the Titan or the Greek Gods).
Awards-The first book in the series The Lightening Thief won NY Times Notable Book of 2005, A Child Magazine Best Book of the Year, A School Library Journal Best Book of the Year
NYS Standards- Social Studies Intermediate Standard 2: World History: Key Idea 1, 2 and 3, Science Standard 4: The Living Environment, Key Idea 2
Grade Level-5-8, but it can be enjoyed by anyone
Reviewed by-Jessica Bradshaw, Voorheesville Middle School, 7th Grade Life Science Teacher (2/10)
Schmidt, Gary D. Okay for Now
©2011, 360 p.
Description/Genre – Historical Fiction, Realistic Fiction, First person narrative, character-driven, coming-of-age, Intermediate Chapter Book.
Review – A moving and often funny story about a teenage boy whose family moves from Long Island to “stupid Marysville” in upstate New York because of his father’s job loss in the 1960’s. Picked on (to the point of abuse) by his dad and two older brothers, Doug Switeck must navigate his way in a new town and school, learning a lot about first impressions and lasting relationships with all walks of people. Through humor, art, intelligence, hard work, and a deep-down desire to connect with others, Doug finds himself, as well as a better understand his family and his small-town community.
Curriculum Connections – Could be a read-aloud or part of a literature unit on coming-of-age stories. Chapters include artwork of Audubon’s birds and lessons on art theory and technique, could lead to study of John J. Audubon.
Awards – School Library Journal Best Books: 2011
NYS & Common Core Standards Connections –NYS ELA 2-4, NYS Arts 1-3, and CC RL6.1-6.10
Recommended 6th grade
Reviewed by – Kim Harmon, Pine Bush Elementary School, Library Media Specialist, (8/12)
Senzai, N.H., Shooting Kabul
© 2010 251p.
Description/Genre – Fiction, Intermediate Grade Chapter Book
Review- “It’s a perfect night to runaway,” so Fadi and his family had thought as they waited for the convoy truck to smuggle them out of war-torn Afghanistan to safety in America. Then something terrible happens, Fadi’s 6 year old sister is trapped in the crush of people to board the convoy truck, soldiers come, and Mariam is left behind alone. The family struggles to find her, yet they must leave the war-torn country before their visas expire to America. Read to find out the challenges and struggles that face Fadi and his family in America.
Suggestions for Classroom Use/ Curriculum Connections- This book can be used to talk about character development, World History, The Afghan war.
NYS & Common Core Standards Connections- Language Arts Standards for grade 5: RL.5.1, RL.5.2, RL.5.3, RL.5.4, RL.5.5, RL.5.6, RL.5.7, RL.5.8, RL.5.9,RL.5.10
Awards: Youth Literature Award Winner
Recommended Grade Level(s) - Grades 6-8
Reviewed by – Regina Anderson, CRCS, Reading Teacher, 7/12
Sheinkin, Steve – Lincoln’s Grave Robbers
©2012, 214 p.
Description: History, Narrative nonfiction
Review: In this absorbing tale which reads like a good crime novel, Sheinkin painstakingly lays out a seemingly implausible story. After hooking the reader with an attention-grabbing initial chapter, he outlines a brief history of counterfeiting, as well as the basics of this illegal activity after the Civil War. With Ben Boyd, possibly the best American plate engraver, in jail in 1875, the ‘coney’ business, as it was called, suffered. Jim Kenally, head of a massive counterfeiting operation in the Midwest, concocted a plan to ensure Boyd’s freedom: recruit reliable underlings to rob Lincoln’s body and then demand the engraver’s release as a condition for the corpse’s return. As he builds tension, the author nicely weaves together several important strands in the action-filled story, including the execution of the plan by the perpetrators, among whom was a ‘plant’ or ‘roper,’ who fed information to the Secret Service; the role of the Secret Service--primarily Patrick Tyrrell, head of the Chicago office--in the sting operation; and the labyrinth-like structure of the Lincoln Monument in Springfield, the scene of the crime. The fascinating bonus section on body snatchers adds additional context. With a list of characters, historical drawings and photos, a glossary and a substantial bibliography, the book makes this little-known event in American history accessible to students.
Curricular Connections: ELA teachers could use this title as an exemplar of narrative nonfiction. The book lends itself to a study of the historical development of the Secret Service and the counterfeiting business, as well as the significance of the controversial Tilden-Hayes election of 1876. Teachers could have students read one of the many primary newspaper accounts listed in the bibliography, and compare the role of primary and secondary sources in writing history. Body snatching for medical research is also a good topic to explore.
Awards: YALSA Best Fiction for Young Adults: 2012
Standards:
Common Core - ELA-Literacy.RH.6-8.4: Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including vocabulary specific to domains related to history/social studies;
ELA-Literacy.RH.6-8.5: Describe how a text presents information (e.g., sequentially, comparatively, causally); ELA-Literacy.RH.6-8.7: Integrate visual information (e.g., in charts, graphs, photographs, videos, or maps) with other information in print and digital texts.
Social Studies - Standard 1: History of the United States and New York; Standard 4: Economics;
Standard 5: Civics, Citizenship, and Government
Science – MST4LE: The Living Environment
Grade Level: This is appropriate for middle school, especially grades 7 and 8, which study American History. High school students and adults would enjoy it as well.
Reviewed by: Diane Leone, Bethlehem Central Middle School, Media Specialist 2/13
Sheinkin, Steve The Notorious Benedict Arnold: A True Story of Adventure, Heroism & Treachery
©2010, 352 pp.
Genre: Biography
Review: Benedict Arnold was reckless, determined, unforgiving, mannerly, peevish, proud, temperamental, ambitious, restless, organized, raging, and passionate. This is his life’s story laid out in a well-crafted, sequential manner with some author speculation as to how all of these character traits combined to make Benedict Arnold a traitor and a patriot. Much more in depth than the usual biographies for children, this satisfied the need for accurate details while being very readable.
Curriculum Connections: Fifth graders, interested in studying the people who make history, would devour this as part of their study of the Revolutionary War.
Awards: 2011 Boston Globe - Horn Book Award for Nonfiction; Horn Book Magazine Fanfare List, Best of 2010; School Library Journal, Best Children’s Books of 2010
NYS Standards Connections: ELA: Reading: Informational Texts; Social Studies: Standards 1, 3, & 5
Recommended Grade Level: Lexile Level 990; grade 5 and Middle School
Reviewed by: Dottie Halligan, AIS Reading Teacher at Sacandaga School,Scotia-Glenville, 2/12
Sheinkin, Steve The Notorious Benedict Arnold: A True Story of Adventure, Heroism & Treachery
©2010, 337 pp.
Description: Middle school historical biography; written in third person
Review: What a wonderful book this is. This well written biography reads like an exciting piece of fiction. Benedict Arnold, one of the most controversial figures in American history, is portrayed as a larger-than-life figure, not very likable, but a brave, even reckless warrior, whose exploits helped save the Revolution from collapsing. Unfortunately, a combination of hubris and greed led him to risk everything in an ultimately unsuccessful attempt to turn over West Point to the British and thus end the colonies’ dream of independence. The author adds interest and suspense to the story by tracing the parallel careers of Arnold and John Andre, Arnold’s British contact, who was hanged as a spy. Maps help the reader follow battles and other important action, and the extensive source notes include a large variety of background reading for those interested. As Sheinkin says, had Arnold been killed at the Battle of Saratoga, he would have been given a premier place in the pantheon of American Revolutionary heroes. As it is, his name is forever synonymous with treason. This well-researched book does an excellent job of explaining how that came to be, while painting Arnold as a tragically flawed, but human, figure.
Curricular Connections: The American Revolution is part of the grade 7 social studies curriculum. This book offers many topics for discussion: the early years of the war and Arnold’s essential role in the conflict; the fragile status of the patriots’ cause, and George Washington’s difficult role as commander-in-chief. This title might also be used in character education discussions to explore concepts such as loyalty and heroism.
NYS Standards: ELA Core - Grade 7: RH 1-9; Social Studies: 1-5; HPEFCS: 2 (A Safe and Healthy Environment)
Awards: 2011 Boston Globe-Horn Book Award for Nonfiction; 2012 YALSA Award for Excellence in Nonfiction for Young Adults
Grade Level: Middle school, but older students and adults would enjoy this book as well.
Reviewed by: Diane Leone, Bethlehem Central Middle School, Media Specialist 2/25
Silverstein, Alvin; Silverstein, Virginia; Silverstein Nunn, Laura Cells
©2009, 112 p.
Description – Non-fiction, Science Series, Reference, Middle School Level
Review – Cells are the fundamental life of life and their components and processes should be understood by all humans. This reference-type work, though filled with much technical information, is written in a readable and palatable manner than middle school students will be able to process. The Silversteins have written a masterpiece guide to understanding how cells operate and their vivid and easily recognized comparisons to the real-world make this a resource that should be on every bookshelf.
Curriculum Connections - Reading level is appropriate for a middle school audience; elementary school level children will not be able to interpret the complex language and high school level students will have covered far more content in their biology classes to find relevancy and connectivity.
Standards -
MST Standard 4: Commencement Level (Living Environment):
Describe the life processes common to all living things
Grade level - Appropriate for a middle school (grade 7) science class.
Reviewed by - Chris Imperial, Science Teacher at Guilderland HS, August 2010
Simon, Mason - Moon Pie
©2012, 336p.
Description: Realistic Fiction
Review: A great book for specific audience. Eleven year old Martha tells the story of being in control of keeping her family together since the death of her Mum. Her father starts to act strangely and she is made aware that he is an alcoholic. Martha and her younger brother, Tug, are sent to live with their grandparents when living with their father becomes unsafe, after numerous mishaps. This is an excellent book for portraying how alcoholism affects a family with a happy ending.
Curriculum Connections: A book for independent reading. Audience must be monitored as it is a sensitive topic.
Common Core Standards: RL: 1, 2, 3, 10; L: 3
Recommended Grade Level: 7th, appropriate for older students as well
Reviewed by: Bonnie Bellville, Van Schaick Grade School, Reading Teacher, 1/13
Snyder, Laurie – Bigger than a Bread Box
@2011, 226 p.
Description: Fantasy with many realistic elements; middle school chapter book
Review: Bigger than a Bread Box introduces Rebecca Snyder, whose mother, after years of dissatisfaction with her irresponsible husband, suddenly leaves Baltimore to stay with her mother in Atlanta, with her twelve-year-old daughter and two-year-old son in tow. Where does this leave Rebecca? How could her mother take her from her friend Mary Kate, her father, and the only life she’s ever known? Rebecca’s discovery of a magical bread box, which grants her any wish, as long as it can fit within the box, adds an interesting twist to the story. Can it bring her parents back together? Can having almost any object you desire become a burden? The first person narrative in this poignant story allows the reader to empathize with an angry and hurt Rebecca, who feels that her mother has totally ignored her needs. Overall, a story with a strong and sympathetic protagonist and a realistic outcome.
Curricular Connections: Those scenes describing Rebecca’s interactions with the box would be good for read-alouds. Because of its realistic elements, the book would be good for students who want to try fantasy, but do not really like the genre. The treatment of separation/divorce and multi-generational relationships makes this title a good discussion starter for banana-splits groups or for a parent/child read. Also, any student new to a school would sympathize with Rebecca, who struggles to make friends.
NYS Standards: HPEFCS: Personal Health and Fitness (1); Safe and Healthy Environment (2)
Grade Level: Rebecca is in 6th or 7th grade. It is suitable for grades 4-7.
Reviewed by: Diane Leone, Bethlehem Central Middle School, Media Specialist 2/12
Spinelli, Jerry. Smiles to Go.
©2008 pp. 248
Genre: Realistic Fiction. Intermediate level. (Written in 1st person.)
Review: Jerry Spinelli is a perennial favorite. His new book, Smiles to Go, does not disappoint. Young people will relate to the many layers of this novel. Will Tuppence, hero of the story, Mi-Su and daredevil BT, his 'geeky science friends' and Tabby, Will's annoying younger sister, are all entwined in a story of family and friends, growing up, the longings and jealousies of romantic awareness, and the realization that all thngs must change.
The reader watches Will wrestling with many new feelings throughout the book. When tragedy befalls his family, he takes a good hard look at himself and develops a clearer understanding of himself and his relationship with Tabby. He finally sees the motive behind Tabby's clingy, copycat behavior and the result is a reawakening of his feelings of familial love for her. Romantic leanings come up against the love of friendship in Will's life as well-complete with the new sensation of jealousy. Can friendship survive a budding romance? And why can't Will keep life from changing around him?
Curriculum Connections: Self-read for grade 8. Also appropriate for grades 7, especially as a read-aloud, and grade 9. Will prompt talks about friendship vs. romantic love, and family.
NYS Standards: Science: Chemistry and Astronomy Health: Discussion about types of love. Importance of friendship. Risky behavior. Character Education: Can show how younger children look up to and emulate older siblings. Self-esteem.
Grade Level: Appropriate for grade 8.
Reviewed by: Janet Micheli, Rosendale Elementary School, Niskayuna CSD. 2/12/2010
©2008 248p
Description- Fiction (First Person) Intermediate level
Review- This book was fine, but not what I had hoped for. Will Tuppence is a typical 9th grader. He is worried about skateboarding, hanging with his friends. Will has a little sister (Tabby) that announces him to no end. The reader will find her funny. Will’s two best friends are Mi-Su and BT, what they do to send him out of control is normal Intermediatelevel. Will learns many lessons in life, jealousies, romantic love, family, and self-esteem. Will has a fascination with science, fun time for him is hours of stargazing. News that protons can die, has Will concern about how long life can go on. Other thing besides the proton problem has Will in a spin.Can he make it through his freshman year?
Curriculum Connections-Good read-aloud for intermediate grades. Discussion about love, friendships, family and self-esteem. Character Education- can showhow younger siblings look up to older siblings. How to express ones feelings and how to deal with them.
Standards- Personal Health and Fitness-HPF2. HPF3. Science 4
Grade level-Story takes place in the 9th grade, but I feel this is a good book for grade 8.
Reviewed by- Darlene Conrad, Ravena-Coeymans-Selkirk Middle School, Teaching Assistant,1/30/12
Stanley, Diane – The Silver Bowl
© 2011, 307 pp.
Description/Genre – Fantasy with medieval-type setting; Adventure
Review – It is said that a curse is responsible for the terrible deaths of members of the royal family of Westria. While it is just superstitious nonsense to many, Molly, the castle scullery maid, knows it is true. While attending to her duties as silver polisher, Molly has visions each time she looks into a beautiful silver bowl, which she learns was created by her grandfather, and is the very source of the curse that she only gradually comes to understand. When King Edmund and all but one of the royal family are killed by wolves on the occasion of Princess Elinor’s wedding, Molly and another servant, Tobias, spirit away the wounded Prince Alaric, now the rightful king. But overcoming the curse is not that easy; it will require loyalty, bravery, and ingenuity from a mere peasant girl who turns out to be rather extraordinary, in spite of her humble background. This is a well-paced story, with plenty of action to hold the reader’s interest, including mild gore and violence. With strong female (Molly) and male (Tobias) protagonists, the book should appeal to both genders. Those who enjoy medieval history and fairytale elements will enjoy the story, as will readers who enjoy humorous dialog.
Suggestions for Classroom Use/ Curriculum Connections – Although a fantasy, this book’s reliance on a medieval setting and its institutions would make it useful for developing 6th grade student interest in the Middle Ages. It could be compared with other types of fantasy to help students understand the genre and its subtypes. With fully developed characters who take action to solve their problems, the book could help promote the concept of self-esteem.
Awards -Booklist Editors' Choice - Books for Youth - Middle Readers Category: 2011; Kirkus, Best of Children’s Books list, a Best Book of the Year; nominee for several state book awards
NYS & Common Core Standards Connections – ELA Common Core: Reading Literature, Standards 1-9; Social Studies Standard 2: World History, and Standard 5: Civics, Citizenship, and Government
Recommended Grade Level(s) – Grades 6, although it could be enjoyed by readers in grades 4-7.
Reviewed by – Diane Leone, Bethlehem Central Middle School librarian, 7/12
Stead, Rebecca; When You Reach Me
©2009, pp. 199
Genre: Science fiction(ish)
Review: If you loved Madeleine L’Engle’s A Wrinkle in Time, then you’re sure to love When You Reach Me—almost as much, anyway. I enjoyed the mystery of the anonymous letters. I liked the conflict between the characters. And I especially loved that it was sci-fi without me really knowing it. It’s one that I want to go back and reread to find out what clues I missed along the way.
Curriculum Connections Language Arts: historical fiction, setting, conflict, plot
Awards Winner 2009 John Newbery Medal; Winner 2009 – New York Times Notable Book; Winner 2009 – Kirkus Reviews Best Children’s Books; Winner 2009 – Publishers Weekly Best Children’s Book of the Year; Winner 2009 – School Library Journal Best Book of the Year; Winner 2009 – Booklist Children’s Editors’ Choice; Winner 2009 – Horn Book Fanfare; Winner 2009 – National Parenting Publications Awards Gold Award; Winner 2009 – Parents’ Choice Gold Award; Winner 2009 – Book Links Lasting Connection; Winner 2010 – Newbery Medal Winner; Winner 2010 – ALA Notable Children’s Book; Winner 2010 – ALA Best Books for Young Adults Top 10; Winner 2010 – NCSS/CBC Notable Children’s Trade Books, Social Studies; Winner 2010 – Cooperative Children’s Book Center Choices; Winner 2010 – NCTE Notable Children’s Trade Books, Language Arts; Winner 2010 – IRA Children’s Book Award for Older Readers
NYS Standards Connections – ELA standards
Recommended Grade Level(s) –Grade 6-8
Reviewed by – Rebecca Wlazlo, Farnsworth Middle School, Grade 6 LA & SS, February 28, 2011
Thompson Holly – Orchards
Illus. by McFerrin Grady ©2011 325p.
Description - YA Fiction, Poetry, Novel in verse
Review – If you like poetry and a meaningful story, this is a great book. Kana Goldberg is a half-Jewish, half-Japanese American teenager. After a bullied classmate commits suicide Kana is sent to her family’s home in Japan for the summer. Kana feels some responsibility for the suicide, because of unkind remarks she made. The story put you in another way of life. Spending time in another culture Kana begins to heal and gain perspective on the eventsthat occurred. Her world changes yet again, when she gets news from home. What she does about it is of great important.
Curriculum Connections- This story of grief and healing will resonate with teenreaders and give them much to discuss. Great education piece about bullying,and suicides. Would also be a great writing assignment?
Standards- English Language Arts –Reading Literature- RL 8.1, RL 8.2, RL 8.3, RL 8.10
Awards-2012 APALA Asian/Pacific Award for Literature Nominated for YALSA”s 2012 Best Fiction for young adults Shortlisted for a Red Dot Book Award 2011-2012 Shortlisted for a Sakura Medal Award 2012
Grade Level- I believe the Poetry and this novel in verse is excellent for 8th graders.
Reviewed by- Darlene Conrad, Ravena-Coeymans-Sekirk Middle School, Teaching Assistant, 1/26/12
Swanson, James L,-Chasing Lincoln’s Killer
©2009, 194 Pages
Description – Historical nonfiction
Review – James Swanson details the plot to assassinate Abraham Lincoln and the following hunt to find John Wilkes Booth. The book is well written, and tells the complete story through references, interviews, and pictures. Each person that came in contact with John Wilkes Booth is a part of the story, and their roles are explained by Swanson. The inclusion of pictures of newspaper articles, artifacts, and portraits of those involved help to give young adults a full understanding of an important event in history. This book brings President Lincoln and John Wilkes Booth to life for the reader.
Curriculum Connections –This is a wonderful history of the assassination of President Lincoln. I would recommend it for any student who was interested in that period of American History.
Awards – YALSA Best Book for Young Adults
Standards –R10L, ELA 1,2
Grade Level – 6 -9
Reviewed by – Kelly Chila, O’Rourke Middle School, Teaching Assistant, 8/12
Watts, Irene – No Moon
©2010, 240 p.
Description- Historical Fiction, Intermediate Grade Chapter Book
Review- Tons of historical information in this novel. The story takes place in England in the early 20th Century. It tells the story of a 14 years old girl who becomes a nanny to a wealthy family. She accompanies the family on the Titanic to care for the children. Deals with the tragedy of the Titanic in an age appropriate yet historical accurate manner
Suggestions for Classroom Use / Curriculum Connections- This could be used to enhance a history lesson as well as character education due to the theme of resilience.
NYS Standards Connections- Social Studies Standard 2
Recommended Grade Level- Appropriate for middle school grades (5-8)
Reviewed by- Kristi Picard, Colonie High School, Special Education Teacher, 1/11
Welch, Sheila Kelly – Waiting to Forget
© 2011, 172 p.
Description/Genre – Realistic fiction
Review - Timothy (T.J.) and his younger sister, Angela, have been in foster care due to their mother’s inability to take care of them responsibly. Currently in an adoptive family, T.J. relates the story of how they were taken from their mother’s home and how they ended up in the ER with their adoptive parents after Angela is injured in a fall. Reminiscent of Nancy Werlin’s The Rules of Survival for a younger reader.
Suggestions for Classroom Use/ Curriculum Connections – FACs, ELA
Awards - None
NYS & Common Core Standards Connections - CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RL.7.1, CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RL.7.2, CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RL.7.3, CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RL.7.4, CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RL.7.6, CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RST.6-8. NYS Standards FACS Standards 2 & 3, NYS ELA Standards 1-4.
Recommended Grade Level(s) – Grade 7, although it would appeal to a broader range – maybe grades 6 – 10.
Reviewed by – Silvia Meder Lilly, BCMS/HS, LMS, 2/13
Weyn, Suzanne – Reincarnation
© 2008, 293 pages
Description-Historical Fiction
Review-Reincarnation is a cute love story about a man and a woman who just can’t work it out. We follow the pair throughout several historical time periods and watch them try to establish a relationship. Despite their attempts to be with one another, fate steps in and sees to it that they cannot be with one another. Although you gain insight into the historical significance during each plotline, it is hard to connect to the characters since they are constantly evolving.
Curriculum Connections-Social Studies Connections: World History and US History The story details many different societies in history from Ancient Egypt to Greece, the Salem Witch Trials to current American Life. As the story progresses through these various points in time, students can learn about what it meant to live during these times and in these cultures.
Awards-none
NYS Standards-Social Studies Intermediate Standard 1: History of US & NY: Key Idea 1, 2 and 3 and Standard 2: World History: Key Idea 1, 2 and 3
Grade Level-6-8 grade
Reviewed by-Jessica Bradshaw, Voorheesville Middle School, 7th Grade Life Science Teacher (1/2009)
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