Module 7: The School Story by Andrew Clements

Module 7: Realistic Fiction

The School Story by Andrew Clements

Clements, A. (2001) The School Story [Kindle edition]. Retrieved from Amazon.com

Plot Summary
Natalie, a twelve-year old, is finishing her novel, The Cheater, which focuses on a girl and her best friend. Zoe, Natalie's best friend, encourages her to try and get it published. Natalie's mother, Hannah Nelson, works for Shipley Junior Books, so Natalie wants to get her to edit her book. However, Natalie doesn't want her mother to know that The Cheater was written by her. To get around this, Natalie creates a pseudonym, Cassandra Day, and Zoe acts as her literary agent with the nickname "Zee Zee."  Although she is reluctant at first, Ms. Clayton, the girls English teacher, agrees their adviser after she reads Natalie's story.

The girls rent out an office, with the help of Ms. Clayton, for their Sherry Clutch Literary Agency. The girls submit The Cheaters to Natalie's mother. Letha Springfield and Hannah love the book. Letha, who sees the potential of the book, takes over as editor. Zoe, as Zee Zee, argues with Letha and says that Cassandra, aka Natalie, will only write with Hannah as her editor. Letha refuses and declares that the book will not be published at Shipley unless Zee Zee and Cassandra apologize. Instead, Zoe sends a copy of The Cheaters to Tom Morton, the president of Shipley, and a list of the conditions that Zoe and Natalie require. Tom loves the story and places Hannah back as the editor.

When offered a contract, Natalie and Zoe show it to Zoe's father, who is a lawyer. With his approval, the girls get Natalie's Uncle Fred to sign in place of Hannah. Zoe's father is impressed with Ms. Clayton and the girls. He goes on to speak to Ms. Clayton in order to cover the cost off the office, which she had previously been paying for the girls.

At the end of The School Story, Zoe convinces Hannah to throw a publication party for The Cheater and Zoe arranges for press to be at the event. Although Natalie doesn't originally know about the event, she uses the opportunity to reveal to her mother that she is Cassandra Day. The press run a story about the book and the journey behind it. To top it all off, The Cheater becomes a hit!

Impressions
I had read Frindle when I was a kid and I was very interested to read another Andrew Clements' work.  I was yet again drawn in by Clements as he creates a realistic journey for the two girls. I felt like the book went beyond the every day school story when Clements addressed Natalie's loss of her father through The Cheater, which had a strong story about the relationship between a father and daughter. I feel like this is extremely relatable to children who have lost a parent and want to express how much they miss them. The reveal of the plot of The Cheater and how it ties in to Natalie's life was definitely my favorite part of the book.

Reviews
Publisher's Weekly. (2001) The School Story [Book Review]. Retrieved 
from http://www.publishersweekly.com/978-0-689-82594-1

"Clements's (Frindle) absorbing novel centers on Natalie, a 12-year-old aspiring author who, since her father died in an automobile accident, lives alone with her mother, Hannah, a children's book editor for a New York City publisher. As the book opens, Natalie's best friend, Zoe, is reading the novel that Natalie is writing. The impulsive, take-charge Zoe decides it is good enough to be published and hatches a scheme to ensure that it is. The path from manuscript to bound book takes some funny turns, as the girls elicit the aid of their English teacher, who rents office space that serves as the faux headquarters of Natalie's self-appointed agent: Zoe. Clements strikes a poignant note with his plot within a plot, since the youngster's novel tells of a girl whose father stands up for her always—even when she is caught cheating in school. Through the use of alternating perspectives, he characterizes the two seventh graders as very different but equally likable parties in a 'push-and-pull friendship.' Though Natalie's is, indeed, a 'school story,' it is at heart a tale about the love between a father and daughter. In Zoe's eyes, 'the book was like a good-bye poem from Natalie to her father,' whom she misses enormously. Hannah, explaining to Natalie how she can recognize the rare gem of a manuscript among the many submissions she receives, says, 'The good ones stand out like roses in a snowbank.' This is one such standout."

Kirkus Reviews. (2001) The School Story [Book Review]. Retrieved from https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/andrew-clements/the-school-story/
 

"A world-class charmer, Clements (The Janitor’s Boy, 2000, etc.) woos aspiring young authors—as well as grown up publishers, editors, agents, parents, teachers, and even reviewers—with this tongue-in-cheek tale of a 12-year-old novelist’s triumphant debut."
 Library Suggestions
I feel like this book could be a jumping off point for a writing workshop. The story really inspires the idea that we all have a story within us to share. We are all creative and full of ideas. For a library, I could see this book being incorporated into a book club where members are given the opportunity to participate in a writing workshop afterwards. Participants could create their own school story and share it with the group. 

Module 10: All the Way to America by Dan Yaccarino

Module 10: Historical Fiction
All the Way to America: The Story of a Big Italian Family and a Little Shovel by Dan Yaccarino

Yaccarino, D. (2011) All the Way to America: The Story of a Big Italian Family and a Little Shovel. New York, NY: Random House. 

Plot Summary

All the Way to America recounts the journey of an Italian family and the shovel that is passed down through four generations. 

The story begins with Dan Yaccarino's great-grandfather named Michael in Sorrento, Italy, who is heading to America to seek out new opportunities. He leaves his parents behind, but his father give him the advice, "Work hard but remember to enjoy life, and never forget family." He arrives at Ellis Island with the small shovel and his father's words. 

Michael uses the shovel to scoop flour and sugar at his first job in America. When he finally is able to open his pushcart, he uses the shovel to measure dried fruits and nuts. Michael goes on to give the shovel to his son, Dan. Dan uses the shovel in his market and his son, Mike, used it to pour salt in front of his barbershop when the sidewalk got icy. Now, Dan, Mike's son and author of the picture book uses the shovel to work on his terrace in order to grow fruits and veggies.

Impressions

My favorite part of the picture book was the illustrations. They are so fresh and fun that you can't help dwelling on them. The illustrations perfectly capture the exuberance of the story. What I like most about the story is the love that you can feel for the author's family. At the same time, Yaccario's family tale is easy to relate to because America is a nation of immigrants. It is a nice way to incorporate the "American Dream" and gives the children a great take away: "Work hard but remember to enjoy life, and never forget family."

Reviews

Kirkus Reviews. (2011) All the Way to America: The Story of a Big Italian Family and a Little Shovel [Book Review]. Retrieved from https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/dan-yaccarino/all-way-america/

"With clarity and deep affection, Yaccarino turns his family history into a story of enduring charm. He tells it in the first person: how his great-grandfather Michele Iaccarino was given a little shovel, the better to help out on the family farm in Sorrento, Italy. When Michele left for America, his parents gave him the little shovel and told him to work hard, enjoy life and love his family. The shovel becomes a talisman through the generations, as Michele—now renamed Michael—uses it in the bakery where he first works, and his son uses the shovel to measure beans and olives in the market and later in his restaurant, and his son opens a barbershop and uses the little shovel to pour salt on the sidewalk when it snows. His son is the author and illustrator, whose children now use the little shovel for the zucchini, tomatoes and strawberries they grow on their NYC terrace. The illustrations evoke each generation’s clothing, hair, posture and adornment exquisitely with simple forms, and facial features convey myriad emotions with the sparest line. The author closes with his great-grandparents’ advice—work hard, enjoy life and love family—and the back cover encourages readers to discover their own family stories. A gloriously warm celebration."

Publishers Weekly. (2011) All the Way to America: The Story of a Big Italian Family and a Little Shovel [Book Review]. Retrieved from http://www.publishersweekly.com/978-0-375-86642-5

"He celebrates classic bootstrap success, subtly incorporating red, white, and green in his palette. Folksy and warm, this is a timely reminder that America is a nation of immigrants."

Library Suggestion

I think this would be a great tie in for learning about children's family tree. When I was in 7th grade, my class did a heritage project and I think this could be a cool lead in to a similar project for a younger crowd. All the Way to America makes you think about your background and your family, so it is a great way to get children thinking. 

Module 8: The Maze Runner by James Dashner

Module 8: Fantasy and Science FictionThe Maze Runner by James Dasnher

Dashner, J. (2009) The Maze Runner [Kindle Edition]. Retrieved from Amazon.com 

Plot Summary
The Maze Runner starts off with Thomas waking up in a metal box. He has no memory of his life before the box, who he is, or how he got there. The box is situated in the Glade, which filled with a community of young boys. Each month a new boy is sent to the Glade and each week supplies come up through the elevator which Thomas arrived in. Thomas is informed that beyond the walls that surround the Glade is the Maze, which is filled with monsters which the Gladers refer to as Grievers.If a Griever stings someone, they will go through what the Gladers call the Changing. Thomas witnesses this early on and it was quite traumatic. Chuck, one of the Gladers, befriends Thomas and he is the one who imparts most of the information.

Thomas also meets the two leaders of the Glade, Alby and Newt. Alby is the primary leader of the Gladers. Gally, another boy, seems very suspicious of Thomas and his arrival and tends to stir up trouble for Thomas. Thomas learns that there are Runners, who are the Gladers who go out into the Maze and attempt to map it out. The Runner's main objective is to find a way out for the group. Minho is the leader of the Runners.

The next day, the first girl is sent up through the elevator. Her name is Teresa, which Thomas knows by hearing her voice,  and with her comes a note that says, "She is the last one ever." Everyone assumes that that means there will no longer be any more children sent to the Glade. Teresa falls into a coma after her arrival. Things in the Glade change after she gets there: the sun disappears, the supplies stop arriving, and the doors of the Maze stay open during the night. Because of this, the Grievers can get in and hunt the Gladers.

Thomas decides to be a Runner. He is later attached by a boy named Ben, who went through the Changing. Ben says that he knows who Thomas really is. Ben is banished by Alby. Thomas, as a Runner, starts investigating the Maze. During a trip into the Maze, Alby is stung by a Griever and Minho, Alby and Thomas are trapped in the Maze overnight. They are able to survive, but Thomas is sent to Glade jail for a day because he had entered the Maze to help Alby and Minho. Thomas theorizes that the walls aren't moving at random, but they are moving in a code. They are spelling out words. He also discovers that the Cliff is actually The Griever Hole, which is where the Grievers come in and out of the Maze. Lastly, he believes that the Changing actually brings back memories that can be used to get out of the maze. He gets intentionally stung in order to get his memories back.Teresa wakes up and she tells Thomas that they know each other and they can speak telepathically.

A group of Gladers decide to make a run for it in order to prevent being stuck in the Glade with the Grievers. They succeed only to discover that they are part of an experiment. It is being performed by the Creators and the WICKED. Gally, the Glader who hated Thomas, throws a knife at Thomas, but Chuck gets in the way and ultimately dies. The group gets rescued by a rebel group and brought to a safe haven. They are told about an apocalyptic event that killed off half of the population called "the Flare." It ends with a set up for the sequel.

My Impression
I am usually a big fan of young adult dystopian fiction, but I could get into this novel. I struggled through it. The concept of having to navigate the Maze was interesting, especially with the Grievers. However, the style of the novel was written in turned me off. I felt like the plot was primarily pushed forward by a lack of communication and egos. I found it more annoying than intriguing.

Reviews
Kirkus Review. (2010) The Maze Runner [Book Review]. Retrieved from https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/james-dashner/the-maze-runner/

"Dashner knows how to spin a tale and make the unbelievable realistic. Hard to put down, this is clearly just a first installment, and it will leave readers dying to find out what comes next."

Hawkes, R. (2014) The Maze Runner: have you read the book?. Retrieved from http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/books/children_sbookreviews/11153394/The-Maze-Runner-have-you-read-the-book.html

"Dashner's clean, vivid prose gives the action passages a video-game like intensity, although there’s enough visceral detail to stop things ever feeling too artificial. Language itself also becomes vitally important: the boys' speech is peppered with made-up words – 'klunk', 'shuck' and 'shank' – that highlight their isolation. Even their names are revealed to be a clue – albeit an unguessable one – to the secret behind their predicament."
Library Suggestion
This is a popular example of dystopia and can certainly be used as a suggestion or display item for the genre. I also see this as a good choice for a book club. The Multnomah County Library posted a discussion guide (https://multcolib.org/maze-runner) for their book club and it seems like an excellent jump start to an interesting discussion.

Module 12: Odd Boy Out: Young Albert Einstein by Don Brown

Module 12: Biography and Autobiography

Odd Boy Out: Young Albert Einstein by Don Brown

Brown, D. (2004) Odd Boy Out: Young Albert Einstein [Kindle version]. Retrieved from Amazon.com

Plot Summary
From his birth, Einstein was an oddball. He was "too fat" for his grandmother and failed to coo and babble like other babies. But when he does talk, he proves himself as clever and sharp. At the age of three, he gains a baby sister, Maja. Young Einstein is not a fan of his new companion. He hits her and strikes her in the head. Maja would go on to say that to be Einstein's sister you needed a "sound skull."

As a child, Einstein struggled with controlling his temper. He throws tantrums and even ends up scaring off a tutor with his rage. However, when he is not angry, he gives single-minded attention to the activities he finds enjoyable, such as building a house of cards. Einstein is full of wonder and often is curious of how things work, like the compass that his father gives him.When his family moves to Munich, the four-year old Einstein is left to wander the streets without supervision.

Once he begins school, he gets labeled as an odd boy. He doesn't like to play sports or the soldiers on parade. His classmates mock him for his Jewish heritage. In class, he focuses on subjects that he enjoys and abandons the rest. His teachers become frustrated with the amount of time it takes him to provide answers in class. However, Einstein earns good grades so they cannot say that he is dim. In his home life, he practices violin and excels without a tutor.

At age 12, he befriends Max Talmud, a medical student, who introduces him to geometry. Max recalls Einstein quickly devouring the material. Einstein becomes transfixed by math and focuses on it in school. Meanwhile, his disinterest in other subjects irritates his teachers. His teachers criticize his interests and insist that nothing will come of them.

When Einstein is 15, his family moves to Milan, Italy. However, the German law dictates that Einstein must serve in the military before he can leave. He is left behind to complete high school and the military. Einstein becomes depressed when he is separated from his family. Because of his failing health, he is given special permission to leave school and reunite with his family in Italy.

When he joins back up with his family, he is able to pursue private study of math and is able to explore his interests. Einstein attempts to enroll in Zurich Polytechnic, a college in Switzerland, but is unable to because he fails the entrance test in the subjects that he disregarded in class. For the next year, he earns his high school diploma and is able to enter Polytechnic.

Einstein graduates and tries to find a teaching job at a university. However, there are no opportunities available. In 1992, he begins work at the Swiss patent office in an Expert III Class position. He then goes on to marry and become a father. But all this time, he continues wondering and examining how things work. He is constantly thinking about things, such as light, time, energy and matter. Through his exploration, Einstein comes up with the photoelectric effect, theories of relativity, and E= mc^2. From his work, he ends up willing the Nobel Prize and a household name.

Impressions
What I enjoyed most about the book was how the illustrations provoked the emotional state of Einstein. For example, when he falls into depression after his family leaves for Italy, the colors are blue with a great deal of shading. It gives the reader a greater understanding of how Einstein is feeling. I also appreciate how the book only slightly touched on Einstein's theories, so the reader does not get bogged down on understanding the science behind his discoveries. Instead the reader is able to gain understanding of the man behind the theories. The book focuses on Einstein's progression from a moody outsider to the genius that we think of today.

One thing that I wish had been expanded upon was Einstein's marriage. We get very little about who he married or their life together and very little about his child. All we really get is that he marries, has a son, and pushes around his son's carriage through Zurich while thinking about theories. I think that more information would be helpful to understand the adult Einstein. However, the book seems to be focusing on his childhood so I understand why their focus was elsewhere.

Reviews
Publishers Weekly. (2004) Odd Boy Out: Young Albert Einstein [Book Review]. Retrieved from http://www.publishersweekly.com/978-0-618-49298-5

"Brown's narrative and appealing quirky pen-and-ink and watercolor art effectively illuminate the eccentricities and intelligence of Einstein the boy and the man."

Kirkus Reviews. (2004) Odd Boy Out: Young Albert Einstein [Book Review]. Retrieved from https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/don-brown/odd-boy-out/

"Kids won't need to understand relativity to appreciate Einstein's passage from lonely oddball to breathtaking genius. An author's note and bibliography fill out this terrific package."

Library Suggestions
For a library, I would suggest this book for younger readers for a biography unit. It is a simple read and has additional information and a bibliography at the back of the book.

This could also be read aloud or assigned by a librarian or teacher when studying scientists or famous people, Einstein is a household name, but many people do not know how he grew up. This would be a chance to show a new side to Einstein.

Module 14: Water Sings Blues by Kate Coombs

Module 14: Poetry and Story CollectionsWater Sings Blues by Kate Coombs

Coombs, Kate. (2013) Water Sings Blues [Kindle Version]. Retrieved from Amazon.com 

Plot Summary
This collection of ocean poems both explores the lives of aquatic animals and gives life to the ocean itself. Coombs presents the animals and ocean with human-like characteristics which ignites the imagination. Some highlights of the book include: Octopus Ink, Not Really Jelly, and Prayer of the Little Fish.

Octopus Ink
Coombs portrays the octopus as a hesitant author who autographs the water with the word "goodbye." It is an excellent alternative take on the octopus and gives a fun take on their ink.

Not Really Jelly
Not Really Jelly depicts the confusing and amusing nature of jellyfish. They are not really jelly and they are not really fish. This poem gives a child-like impression of jellyfish that captures their jelly nature. "...all slither and jiggle and tremble and squish."

Prayer of the Little Fish
Prayer of the Little Fish goes through the daily prayer of a small fish in the ocean. He prays for safety and health. He prays for food and shelter. It mimics a prayer that readers can hear in their own lives.

Impressions
Although poetry is not usually my ideal reading material, I was very impressed on how well they captured up the spirit of the ocean and how well the poems flowed. Coombs gives human qualities to the ocean and its occupants and inspires the reader to think of the ocean creatures in a new light. I particularly loved Prayer of the Little Fish. Coombs mirrored a human prayer from the perspective of the little fish. It made the fish relatable and gave you a glimpse into their aquatic life.

The illustrations are beautiful. The water color style of illustration enhances the ocean-feel of the poems. They are an excellent accompaniment to the text.

Reviews
Kirkus Reviews (2012) Water Sings Blues [Book Review]. Retrieved from https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/kate-coombs/water-sings-blue/

"Varied rhyme and rhythmic patterns and surprising connections characterize these relatively short poems, which read aloud well and stick in the memory. there's humor, interesting language and intriguing imagery, as when the Gulper Eel's 'astronomical maw' is compared to a black hole. Thoughtful organization and placement of text on the page and So's wavery, watery illustrations extend the poems' meaning."

Bowen, B. (2012) Water Sings Blue: Ocean Poems [Book Review]. Retrieved from http://www.publishersweekly.com/978-0-8118-7284-3

"Coombs punctuates her sweeping, lullaby-like poems about the ocean with surprising personification and unexpected imagery."

Library Suggestion
This collection of poems is a great resource for read-alouds. I would definitely suggest pulling Water Sings Blues for anyone presenting a ocean/sea themed story time. The poems over the water animals would be excellent for quick reading and pack in a lot of personification in to each mini-story.

Module 13: Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney

Module 13: Graphic Novels and Series Books

Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney

Kinney, J. (2007) Diary of a Wimpy Kid. New York, NY: Amulet Books.

Plot Summary
As Greg Heffley begins middle school, he decides to keep a journal to he wants to give people something when they ask him questions once he is famous, and because his mother wants him to keep a diary. Greg goes through his day-to-day life along with his own commentary. He is also plagued by his bullying older brother, Rodrick; his spoiled younger brother, Manny; and his frustrating parents, Frank and Susan.

Over the course of the year, Greg must deal with fitting in and frustrations with family and friends. Examples include, running and hiding from teenagers on Halloween; Rowley becoming popular when he breaks his arm; and being a tree in the school's Wizard of Oz play.The most notable and well remembered part of the book was when the older kids force Rowley and Greg to each the Cheese, which was associated with a form of cooties called the Cheese Touch. Although Greg is able to escape the Cheese by claiming to be allergic, Rowley eats it. When the other kids see that the Cheese is gone, Greg claims to have thrown it away to protect Rowley. This reunites Greg and Rowley after their previous fight.

Impressions
I am going to be honest. This book was not my cup of tea. I usually have this problem when a book simply documents events rather than having a mission. I didn't really feel like the book was going anywhere because there wasn't one overarching conflict. Diary of a Wimpy Kid was a year in the life of Greg Heffley and it didn't stick with me.

Even though it wasn't my favorite book, I can definitely see where young readers would like it. It is relatable to children entering in or attending middle school because it gives a kid's perspective on kid challenges.

Reviews
Scholastic. (n.d.) Diary of a Wimpy Kid: A Novel in Cartoons [Book Review]. Retrieved from http://www.scholastic.com/teachers/book/diary-wimpy-kid#cart/cleanup

"Author/illustrator Jeff Kinney recalls the growing pains of school life and introduces a new kind of hero who epitomizes the challenges fo being a kid. As Greg says in his diary, 'Just don't expect me to be all Dear Diary this and Dear Diary that.' Luckily for us, what Greg Heffley says he won't do and what he actually does are two very different things."

Kirkus Review (n.d.) Diary of a Wimpy Kid: A Novel in Cartoons [Book Review]. Retrieved from https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/jeff-kinney/diary-of-a-wimpy-kid/

"Largely through his own fault, mishaps seem to plague Greg at every turn, from the minor freak-outs of finding himself permanently seated in class between two pierced stoners and then being saddled with his mom for a substitute teacher, to being forced to wrestle in gym with a weird classmate who has invited him to view his 'secret freckle.' Presented in a mix of legible 'hand-lettered' text and lots of simple cartoon illustrations with the punch lines often in dialogue balloons, Greg’s escapades, unwavering self-interest and sardonic commentary are a hoot and a half—certain to elicit both gales of giggles and winces of sympathy (not to mention recognition) from young readers."
Library Use Suggestions
This book series is incredibly popular with children. There is no denying it. I would suggest either hosting a Diary of a Wimpy Kid party or book club as a way of bringing readers together over their similar interest. The party can be hosted as a celebration of a new book release or just for fun. In a book club setting, each book could be read and discussed each month.

Book Trailer Assignment

INFO 5420 Assignment C: Book Trailers

Book Trailer 1: Matilda by Roald Dahl

URL: https://animoto.com/play/Jqws8tK0Wkf3E3WHUaOX8A

Book Trailer 2: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K. Rowling

URL: https://animoto.com/play/OSjimdnB9qHupjEUgTdZbQ

Book Trailer 3: The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman

URL: https://animoto.com/play/SxTrKoVSJimpxOFn88Wenw

Module 11: Now & Ben by Gene Barretta

Module 11: Informational Books

Now & Ben: The Modern Inventions of Benjamin Franklin by Gene Barretta

Barretta, G. (2013). Now & Ben: The Modern Inventions of Benjamin Franklin [Kindle version]. Retrieved from Amazon.com

Plot Summary

Now & Ben  takes the reader through one of the most significant inventors in history, Benjamin Franklin. The story covers both well known and more unique inventions of Benjamin Franklin, such as the lightning rod, the Long Arm, and the glass armonica. They also discuss come of his other contributions such as promoting eating citrus fruits to prevent scurvy and charting the Gulf Stream. Along with each of these advancements, the author gives the modern version or how Benjamin Franklin's invention inspired others.

Impressions

I was definitely a fan of how the books gave the Now equivalent of Benjamin Franklin's inventions. It takes his past inventions and shows how they are used in the modern world. I think this is very useful for young readers, so they can see how his inventions have evolved over time and truly understand how influential Benjamin Franklin was and still is today.

The illustrations are adorable and place Benjamin Franklin and his inventions side by side with the modern counterpart. The drawings are bright and draw the reader in. They are an excellent addition to the story and are sure to capture the attention of young readers.

Reviews:

Now & Ben: The Modern Inventions of Benjamin Franklin [Review of Book] (n.d.) Retrieved from http://www.publishersweekly.com/978-0-8050-7917-3

"The juxtaposition of present and past effectively reinforces the continued relevance of Franklin's inventions and underscores the extraordinary range and depth of his ingenuity and practicality. With its breezy format and succinct text, the book delivers facts in an assuredly kid-friendly style. The playful watercolor cartoons, often divided into panels, help to vary the pacing. A concluding futuristic spread envisions even further updated variations on Franklin's inventions."

Now & Ben: The Modern Inventions of Benjamin Franklin [Review of Book] (n.d.) Retrieved from http://www.scholastic.com/teachers/book/now-ben#cart/cleanup

"In this informative book, Gene Barretta brings Benjamin Franklin's genius to life, deepening our appreciation for one of the most influential figures in American history."

Library Use Suggestions:

I think Now & Ben would be an excellent option to incorporate into a STEAM story time. I promotes creativity and shows how innovation can last from years to come. It would be a way to encourage science and engineering as well as promoting a Maker Space.

Module 9: Cam Jansen and the Catnapping Mystery by David Adler

Module 9: Mystery

Cam Jansen: The Catnapping Mystery by David A. Adler

Adler, D.A. (2005). Cam Jansen: The Catnapping Mystery. New York, NY: Puffin Books.

Plot Summary:
Cam and her friend are meeting up with her Aunt Molly at a fancy hotel in the city. While they are debating between which activities to do for the day, Cam overhears a hotel guest exclaim that she is missing her cat, Little Tiger. The woman had given her luggage and cat to the bellhop to bring up to her hotel room, but they never arrived. While at the main desk, the lady receives a call from the bellhop, who is really a thief. He says that her clothes are old and her jewelry is fake, so he has no choice but to ransom her stuff back to her. He instructs her to wait in her hotel room for further instructions. The police are called and Cam decides to help out. At first the police do not listen to Cam, but when her photographic memory helps identify the thief's van. They start to take notice. Cam points out that the bellhop-thief was wearing a blue uniform and not a red one like the rest of the hotel staff and she remember his van from when she arrived at the hotel. Although she is unable to remember the plate number, she was able to identify the sticker on his window. It leads them to his apartment complex and they track the thief down. When they find him, they prove that the cat in his apartment is Little Tiger by calling his name. Cam then reunites the cat with his owner.

Impressions:
This is a very brief quick mystery that I am sure young readers will enjoy. Cam is easy to relate too, yet she still retains her uniqueness with her photographic memory.

Personally, I feel like it was a little heavy on the lead up to the mystery and did not take a lot of time with the mystery itself. The prep took up more time then solving the mystery which disappointed me. I understand that it is a very short book, but it could have been lengthened a bit to fill out the mystery.

Reviews:

Kit Vaughtan, J. (2010) The Catnapping Mystery [Book Review]. Retrieved fromhttp://www.syndetics.com/index.aspx?isbn=0141308974/SLJREVIEW.html&client=anarp

"In this 18th adventure, Cam Jansen, her parents, and her friend Eric are on their way to meet her aunt at the Royal Hotel. There, Cam overhears a conversation between a distressed hotel guest and Michael, the bellhop. Esther Wright states that on her arrival, she gave her luggage and her traveling companion, "Little Tiger," to a bellhop outside the hotel to take to her room. The cat never made it there. A ransom-demanding phone call confirms Esther's worst fears-"Little Tiger" has been catnapped. Cam once again solves the mystery and helps catch the crook. With her photographic memory, she makes mental notes of events and details that the rest of her family and friends dismiss. Pen-and-ink drawings appear frequently throughout, and a visual puzzle to solve is included at the end. Another fine mystery for beginning chapter-book readers."

Peterson, L. (n.d.) The Catnapping Mytery [Book Review]. Retrieved from http://www.syndetics.com/index.aspx?isbn=0141308974/BLREVIEW.html&client=anarp

"Cam Jansen, girl detective extraordinaire, happens upon another mystery while on an outing to the Royal Hotel. Posing as a bellhop, a thief steals the luggage and the pet cat belonging to an unsuspecting elderly woman, then holds them for ransom. Thanks to her photographic memory, Cam is able to give police a great description of both the thief and his getaway van, and together the officers and the youthful investigator get their man. Susanna Natti, who has illustrated all the books in this series, makes the pictures do double duty this time by providing not only pleasing drawings to complement the text but also visual clues to help readers solve the mystery right along with Cam. A good book to introduce young readers to chapter books: the level of mystery is just right for the audience. The book will also be a good choice to help build the confidence of older children with reading disabilities."

Library Use Suggestions:

Any book in the Cam Jansen series could easily be used in a suggested reading display for children's mystery novels. They are quick to read and can act as a way of getting children into mystery novels without overwhelming them.

Module 7: Alvin Ho: Allergic to Girls, Schools, and Other Scary Things

Module 7: Realistic Fiction

Alvin Ho: Allergic to Girls, School, and Other Scary Things by Lenore Look

Look, L. (2008). Alvin Ho: Allergic to Girls, School, and Other Scary Things. New York, NY: Schwarts & Wade Books.

Plot Summary:
This books follows Alvin Ho's adventure through the beginning of his school year until around Halloween. Alvin Ho must cope with his fears as he strives to get through each day of school and attempt to make friends.

The story starts out with Alvin introducing himself and his fears. Then he goes on to explain how he is coping with his fears at school by putting together his own Personal Disaster Kit (PDK) which includes plans for any difficult situation, like How to Meet Your New Teacher. Alvin seeks advice from his older brother, Calvin, on how to make new friends. Although Alvin doesn't approve of Calvin's methods, he writes it down anyways. 

The school year begins and Alvin tries to get out of class by claiming to be "allergic" to school. His dad sees through it anyways and sends him to school. There he becomes desk mates with a girl named Flea who was one eye. Alvin is unhappy about this scenario, but he "loses his voice" at school and can't fight back. When Flea comes over after school and shows his mother The Book on Alvin, Alvin flips out and offends Flea. She remains upset with him over the whole ordeal. 

Still trying desperately to get out of class, Alvin attempts to get chicken pox from a girl, Jules. He trades a piece of gum to Pinky so he can go in her house. Although the children do not show symptoms immediately, they later all come down with the chicken pox and school is cancelled. During this time, Alvin's dad allows Alvin to play with his Johnny Astro toy and saying that one day it will be his. Once the children go back to school, Alvin decides that Johnny Astro will be a great "show and tell" item and he borrow it without permission. As fate would have it, Johnny Astro gets destroyed and Alvin's dad is very upset. After this, Alvin's dad decides that he needs to take piano lessons.

The piano lessons do not go well because Alvin is scared of the piano teacher. He had been told by Jules that she is a witch like in Hansel and Gretel. After his meltdown at the piano teacher's house, he is sent back to the psychotherapist. Alvin is scared of the therapist because he thinks she is a psycho. He refuses to speak to her and eventually they play cards. The therapist is doing poorly and Alvin ends up yelling Shakespearean insults at her. Alvin's dad takes him home, but first they go to the ice cream shop and have a heart to heart. Alvin's dad tells Alvin that he knows it is hard to deal with fear and get new friends, but he would not change anything about Alvin. He also tells Alvin about how he made friends by trading baseball cards. Alvin decides that that is the way that he will win over Pinky, the popular boy in his class. 

Alvin ends up attempting to befriend Pinky, but after several mishaps, including throwing a ball through his neighbor's window, he decides that he does not want to be friends with Pinky. In the end, Alvin ends up playing with Flea and they become friends. 

Impressions:
This is a brief read and fast paced. I easily knocked out the book in a hour. I think it is a good read for children who want a quick story with an intriguing protagonist. 

What I appreciate the most about the book is that it addresses anxiety and fear in a way that is easy to understand. Most of the book is written as internal thoughts instead of conversations between characters and it shows a young boy's vision of what is going on in the world around him and how his fears impact him. I don't think that there are enough books out there that address mental illness or going to a therapist and I appreciate that Look did just that. 

Look also takes the opportunity to introduce a main character with an Asian heritage. Although much of Alvin's life is pretty standard in American ways, Look brings in details of Alvin's Chinese heritage and history into the tale. For example, Alvin has a signed baseball by Daisuke Matsuzaka, which he keeps in a case and later uses as a play ball.

The cherry on top of this book is the inclusion of Alvin Ho's Woeful Glossary which describes what Alvin means when he says different things. These glossary entries are written in the same style of the book and can allow any reader who does not understand what some of the words mean. For example, Look uses this glossary to explain who Daisuke Matsuzaka is and his significance to baseball history. It is definitively a nice touch and explains things in kid friendly language. 

Reviews:

Bird, E. (2008). Review of the Day- Alvin Ho: Allergic to Girls, school, and Other Scary Things by Lenore Look. Retrieved from http://blogs.slj.com/afuse8production/2008/07/28/review-of-the-day-alvin-ho-allergic-to-girls-school-and-other-scary-things-by-lenore-look/

"I can also see some people getting a little squirrely when it comes to Alvin’s dialogue, though. You could make the argument that no boy in the history of the world would say, 'My dad is not superhero material,' or 'The fourth thing you should know about me is that I love Plastic Man, Wonder Woman, the Green Lantern, Concrete Man, Aquaman, King Henry V and all the superheroes in the world.' You could SAY that but can I point out that Alvin never actually speaks these sentences? They’re just explaining his state of mind. And if a sentence says, 'The scary thing about girls is that they are not boys' then can’t you argue that the author is clarifying what Alvin is feeling even if he wouldn’t use those exact words at that exact time? In a sense, Look is translating Alvin’s thoughts and emotions into coherent, remarkable little sentences that every second grader feels but is incapable of putting into words. There’s the acknowledgment that 'crying is really great' alongside the almost poignant 'I am not good at anything ever since I started school.' Alvin isn’t precocious. He just happens to have an author capable of bringing him into crisp, clear relief."

Alvin Ho: Allergic to Girls, School, and Other Scary Things [Review of Book] (2008) Retrieved from https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/lenore-look/alvin-ho/

"In the vignettes that make up this exuberantly funny slice of Alvin’s life, Look portrays the world as it would be viewed through the eyes of a wildly creative but undeniably neurotic kid. In his hometown of Concord, Mass., Alvin searches for friends, meets with a psychotherapist (who he supposes must be a 'very smart crazy person' based on her job title) and gets himself into a variety of jams. A witty glossary and Pham’s simple yet expressive line drawings perfectly complement this appealing story about the refreshingly original, endearing Alvin."

Library Use Suggestions: 

I think that this books would be a good way to introduce mental illness to a child who is struggling with anxiety. There are not many children's books that deal with debilitating fear and this is a lighter way of approaching it. A teacher or librarian could use this as a read aloud to introduce the idea of coping with extreme fear while Alvin goes through his adventures. Children who are suffer socially can take solace in the fact that Alvin eventually finds a friend in Flea at the end of the book. 

Module 6: The Pigeon Finds a Hot Dog by Mo Willems

Module 6: Picture Books

The Pigeon Finds a Hot Dog by Mo Willems

Willems, M. (2004). The Pigeon Finds a Hot Dog!. New York, NY: Hyperion Books for Children.

Plot Summary:
The Pigeon finds a hot dog and is all set to eat it. Suddenly, the Ducking shows up and starts asking the Pigeon all these questions about hot dogs, mainly revolving around what it tastes like. The Pigeon sees what the Duckling is trying to do. He knows the Duckling is trying to get him to share his hot dog and the Pigeon refuses to give in. Yet, the Duckling continues to ask questions. Tired of the crazy questions being asked, the Pigeon finally splits the hot dog with the Duckling, who sly ends the books with the phrase "Hmmm...needs mustard."

Impressions:
I will admit up front that I have never read a Mo Willems' book before this one. I know that it seems like blasphemy because he is so popular with the kiddos and I work in the Children's department of my library. I suggest the books all day long, but have never picked one up myself, so when the picture book assignment rolled around I had no excuse for not cracking one open. 

Boy, was I short changing myself. I adore this books! It is so charming and expressive. It is definitely a very short read, but it has heart. It is both zany and cute. 

I love Pigeon's deadpan expression and you can just feel the "he can't really be serious" expression that Pigeon gives the audience. 

I also find it so amusing that Pigeon breaks the fourth wall by asking the audience, "Can you believe this guy!?!" There is so much to love about this book. I feel like I am going to have to go through and read them all now.

Reviews:

Review of Book: The Pigeon Finds a Hot Dog! (n.d.) Retrieved from  http://www.scholastic.com/teachers/book/pigeon-finds-hot-dog#cart/cleanup

"In this hilarious follow=up to the acclaimed Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! Mo Willems has created another avian adventure that encourages children to share even their most prized processed foods. 

Review of Book: The Pigeon Finds a Hot Dog! (2004). Retrieved from http://publishersweekly.com/978-0-7868-1869-3

Through voice bubbles, body language, and expressive sizes and shapes of type, Willems crafts a comical give-and-take between the characters. He sketches both iconic birds in decisive crayony lines and tints the pages with smooth pastel hues. Readers of all ages won't be able to resist miming the sly conversation in this satisfying sequel."

Library Use Suggestions: 

I think a great use for this book would be an introduction to graphic novels or comic book drawing. While his characters are simple and easy to mimic, Willems has a large range of expression in his pieces. The Pigeon goes through so many different emotions and it is so striking on the page. I think simpler book illustration, such as Willems' works, would allow children to fell comfortable with trying out their own version of illustrations. It would be a fun activity to make comic strips using Willems characters. That way the kids can figure out the story they want to tell and then express it through illustration. 

Module 5: When the Beat Was Born by Laban Carrick Hill

Module 5: Coretta Scott King Award Winner

When the Beat Was Born: DJ Kool Herc and the Creation of Hip Hop by Laban Carrick Hill
Illustrated by Theodore Taylor III

Hill, L. C. & Taylor, T. (2013). When the Beat Was Born: DJ Kool Herc and the Creation of Hip Hop. New York, NY: Roaring Brook Press.

Plot Summary:
Clive always loved music. "Whether it was a wah wah scat of a jiving trumpet, a sorrowful twang of sad voice, or the belting boom of a gospel singer, little Clive loved the way sound thumped and bumped all the way down in his stomach." 

Growing up in Jamaica, Clive had a passion for his favorite DJ, King George. Everyone wanted to go down to Somerset Lane for King George's parties. While Clive was too young to attend the parties himself, he went down to the house the day before to watch them set up. He loved to see the mountains of records. Clive dreamed of being a DJ himself.  

At age 13, Clive moved to New York City to live with his mother. While uncomfortable with living in the Bronx, Clive was able to find another passion: sports. He played basketball, ran track, and lifted weights.  Because of his height, the children on the basketball court would call him Hercules. Clive decided to cut it short to Herc and added "Kool" to it.  In addition to sports, he was now old enough to attend neighborhood house parties and listen to the new music. 

Once day, Kool Herc's dad bought a giant sound system. He hooked it up and enjoyed the BIG sound that it produced. Kool Herc and his little sister Cindy rented out the rec room in their housing project and set up a party with their father's sound system for the music. That's when Kool Herc became DJ Kool Herc.

Everyone loved his DJing and soon he was playing for parties all over the Bronx. The music made everyone happy and all the dancers would come out to the parties for a fun time. Herc brought in a group of his friends to rap behind his DJing, including Coke La Rock. His first group of MCs were called the Herculoids and DJ Kool Herc introduced them to rap. He went on to recruit more MCs and lead to the birth of Hip Hop.

Impressions:
I first saw this book when it was sitting on our 2015 Bluebonnet display. To me, When the Beat Was Born had the most intriguing cover. I was drawn in by the dynamic and artsy depiction of DJ Kool Herc. However, because I am not a giant fan of hip hop, I really didn't have a big need to read it. This week's module gave me an opportunity to stop delaying and jump into this colorful biography. 

It was an interesting jaunt through the birth of hip hop, but because I am not really intrigued by the subject matter I wasn't completely taken by the text. While the topic was not particularly my cup of tea, the illustrations are fabulous. The rich colors and thick lines were reminiscent of a graphic novel. There is a lot of movement and keeps the reader's attention. I loved the use of the blue/green color to accent the music. This book has great visual appeal. 

Reviews:

Demby. G. (2014, January 29) When the Beat Was Born: Hip-Hop's Big Bang Becomes a Kid's Book. Retrieved from http://www.npr.org/sections/codeswitch/2014/01/28/267599216/when-the-beat-was-born-hip-hops-big-bang-becomes-a-kids-book

"The book is only 17 pages long, but it includes a bibliography of writing on hip-hop's beginnings. (Herc had no involvement in creating the book, Taylor said.)Before this project, Taylor hadn't done any illustrating for children's books. But now, he says, this is what he wants to focus on going forward. 'I was pretty honored to have a book about him be my first children's book project since hip-hop is a pretty big part of my life,; Taylor said.'I think it's pretty important that people understand the origins,' Taylor told me. 'It's hard to really understand the culture or the music without understanding where it came from.'"

When the Beat Was Born: DJ Kool Herc and the Creation of Hip Hop [Review](2013, May 20) Retrieved from http://www.publishersweekly.com/978-1-59643-540-7

"Hill walks the fine line between knowledgeable reporter and passionate fan (as is clear in his vivid author’s note), and Taylor does the same, using a meticulous inkline and washes of textured earth tones to convey both a sense of observational precision and a mural-like expressionism. Whether Taylor is zooming in on Herc’s dexterous hands manipulating the turntables or pulling back for a birds-eye view of the first break dance performances, he makes readers feel like they’re present at hip-hop’s inception."

Library Use Suggestions: 

This book is definitely a display item. As I mentioned earlier, the cover really caught my eye and it did the same with many of the young patrons at the library where I work. It flew off the shelves. I would definitely consider using this for a juvenile biography display or a display for Black History Month. It is eye catching and fun. Definitely a striking book.  

Module 5: Knock Knock: My Dad's Dream for Me by Daniel Beaty

Module 5: Coretta Scott King Award Winner

Knock Knock: My Dad's Dream for Me by Daniel Beaty
Illustrated by Bryan Collier

Beaty, D. & Collier, B. (2013). Knock Knock: My Dad's Dream for Me. New York, NY: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers.

Plot Summary:
Every morning, the boy and his father play the "Knock Knock" game. When his father knocks on his door, the boy pretends to be asleep. When the father comes into his room, the boy jumps into his arms and says, "Good morning, Papa!" The father replies, "I love you."

This game continues until one day, his father doesn't knock. His father is no longer there. He doesn't help the boy get ready for school. He isn't there to cook the boy scrambled eggs and he doesn't help the boy with homework after school. The boy misses his father, so he decides to write him a letter. "Papa, come home, 'cause I miss you, miss you waking me in the mornings and telling me you love me." The boy wants to be taught all the things that a father is supposed to teach their sons: how to dribble a ball, how to shave, how to drive, and how to fix the car. The letter sits on the boy's desk while he waits for the knocks.

Two months later, he receives a letter from his father. Inside are words of wisdom and love from a father who desperately wishes to be with his son. These words guide the boy as he grows up. He learns to be a man and knock down barriers of his own. The father wants his son to be the best that he can be and the boy does just that. While the father is absent from the boy's life, his love remains with his son throughout the years until they can be reunited again. 

Impressions:
I cannot and will not stop suggesting this book. The story is so beautiful and the images go along with the text brilliantly. Although this story is about a boy whose father is incarcerated, it is so relatable for any child who is missing a parent, for whatever reason. You can feel the hurt that the boy feels from his father's untimely departure and you know the father aches to be near his son. It exudes unconditional love that parents give to their children. 

Reviews:

Smith, R.(2013, November 13) Review of Knock Knock: My Dad's Dream for Me. Retreived from http://www.hbook.com/2013/11/choosing-books/review-of-the-week/review-knock-knock-dads-dream/

"The text, powerful and spare, is well supported by Collier's watercolor and collage art, which is filled with repeating motifs: elephants for memory, a paper airplane careening, the father's hat, rainbows and balloons, children's eager faces, even the Duke Ellington Memorial to signify the little boy's dream. Though the boy is bereft of a father, he is cared for and loved. His room is filled with toys and books. His mother and, later on, his wife are there to support him and help him move forward. There is a lot going on here. but there is a lot going on in the mind of any child who has been denied a parent, for whatever reason. In this book they will find comfort and inspiration."

Bird, E. (2013, October 9) Review of the Day: Knock Knock by Daniel Beaty. Retrieved from 
http://blogs.slj.com/afuse8production/2013/10/09/review-of-the-day-knock-knock-by-daniel-beaty/

"Here’s what might be my favorite line in the book: “Papa, come home, ‘cause I want to be just like you, but I’m forgetting who you are.” Kids everywhere grow up without fathers and a single book isn’t going to necessarily change their lives. But maybe, just maybe, it really will touch somebody in the right way. When Bryan Collier writes in his Note that “This book is not just about loss, but about hope, making healthy choices, and not letting our past define our future,” he’s talking to kids everywhere that are dealing with a deck that’s stacked against them. They don’t get enough books, those kids, about lives like their own. Fortunately, once in a great while, a book comes along that fulfills that gaping need. This year, it’s this book. Next year? Who knows? But as long as there are children struggling along without their parents, Knock Knock is going to have a job to do."

Library Use Suggestions: 
My greatest suggestion is to keep this book in your back pocket for a suggestion. I remember coming across this book when a grandmother came into my library searching for it. She was wanting a way to explain to her granddaughter about her father going away to prison. This book works perfectly to explain to the child that despite the parent being absent from their lives that it doesn't mean that they are unloved. Take note of this book because I am sure you will be suggesting it to a patron in no time. 

Module 4: The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman

Module 4: Newbery Winners

The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman

Gaiman, N. (2008). The Graveyard Book. New York, NY: HarperCollins Publishers.

Plot Summary:
The story begins with a family being murdered by the man Jack, all except for the youngest child. The toddler had climbed out of this crib and wanders out of the house, up the hill, and to the graveyard. The ghosts find him and the Owens, a ghost couple, decide to adopt him based on a desperate plea by the toddler's mother's spirit. After the other ghosts of the graveyard have consulted one another and the Lady on the Grey, they decide to grand him the Freedom of the Graveyard. The toddler is named Nobody Owens and Silias, the caretaker, accepts the responsibility of being Nobody's guardian.

Throughout the chapters, Nobody, or Bod for short, goes on several adventures over the years. First, he meets a girl named Scarlett and they become fast friends. After their first encounter, Scarlett's parents think that Bod is imaginary and convince Scarlett of that fact. Scarlett and Bod go investigate a grave of the oldest inhabitant of the graveyard and encounter the Sleer. When they return from their adventure, Scarlett's parents believe that she has gone missing and are very upset. Soon, they decide to move to Scotland for her father's job in particle physics and Scarlett says her goodbye to Bod. "You are the bravest person I know, and you are my friend. I don't care if you are imaginary." (pg. 60)

In his next adventure, Bod is captured by ghouls. At the time, Silas is away on business and he has placed Miss Lupescu as Bod's temporary guardian. Unhappy with Miss Lupescu's food and teaching methods, Bod wanders around the graveyard and is lured into danger by ghouls who promise him delicious food and happiness. After his is captured, Bod decides that he does not want to be a ghoul and cries for help. He is eventually rescued by Miss Lupescu, who turns out to be a Hound of God or werewolf. She returns Bod up from the land of ghouls and to Silas. Bod has formed a new friendship with Miss Lupescu and requests to have her return to look after him when Silas is away.

As Bod grows older, he becomes more curious about the graveyard and its inhabitants. It is known that a witch was buried outside the sacred ground of the graveyard and Bod investigates. While near the edge of Potter's Field, Bod is trying to reach an apple, falls, and injures himself. The ghost of Elizabeth Hempstock, the witch, helps him and tells him her story. She is very bitter about not having a gravestone of her own.  Bod, hoping to make Elizabeth (or Liza) smile, sets off to get her a headstone. He decides that the best course of action would be to sell the brooch from the Sleer and use the money from the sale to buy the headstone. He goes to a pawn shop owner, Abanazer Bolger, to make a deal. Abanazer is a greedy man and wants to keep the stone for himself as well as find the grave which Bod found the brooch in order to loot it for more treasure. He locks Bod in a back room and calls his associate, Tom, to help him get more information about the treasure. Liza has followed Bod and asks him what is going on. He explains himself and Liza agrees to help him. She goes out an observes Abanazer and Tom. Abanazer believes that Bod might be the boy who the man Jack is looking for. He pulls out a black rimmed card with instructions on how to summon the man Jack. Liza returns to Bod and helps him Fade so that he cannot be found by Abanazer and Tom. When they cannot find Bod, the two argue and fight. Bod and Liza escape and take the brooch and the card with them. Bod returns the brooch to the Sleer and gives the card to Silas, who takes an interest in it. Bod then makes Liza a headstone from a paperweight and paints that he nicked from Abanazer's shop. 

When Bod is about 10, he begins to learn about the Macabary, a dance for both the living and the dead. Bod goes though the Old Town and sees all of the townsfolk pinning white flowers to themselves. There is a large amount of music and soon everyone is dancing together, the dead and the living. For the final dance, Bod is joined by the Lady on the Grey. When the clock chimes twelves, the music stops and the living return to their normal lives. When he awakens from his nap, Bod merrily talks about the dancing, but no one seems to remember it.  Bod confronts Silas about it. While Silas confirms that something may have happened, he refuses to speak further on it because, "Because there are mysteries. Because there are things that people are forbidden to speak about. Because there are things they do not remember." (pg. 164)

After this final jaunt, the story refocuses on the man Jack. I don't want to spoil the ending; however, I will say that Bod joins Silas and Miss Lupescu in finding Jack as well as his "Jack of All Trades" society. Scarlett also joins in for the event and Bod must consider his life in the graveyard. Read it and you will love it.

Impressions:
The  Graveyard Book completely sucked me in. I completed it in a single sitting. I highly enjoyed that each chapter was pretty much a miniature story of a part of Bod's life. It would make for a great story time book for older children or a bedtime story book. The stories could be stand-alone tales, but they did all come back to the overall tale of Bod and the man Jack.  

Reviews:

The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman. (2010, May 20). Retrieved from https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/neil-gaiman/the-graveyard-book/

"Childhood fears take solid shape in the nursery-rhyme-inspired villains, while heroism is its own, often bitter, reward. Closer to tone to American Gods than Coraline, but permeated with Bod's innocence, this needs to be ready y anyone who is or has ever been a child."

Ness, P. (2008). Review: The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman. Retrieved from http://www.theguardian.com/books/2008/oct/25/booksforchildrenandteenagers-neilgaiman

"Gaiman's narratives tend toward the episodic, and there are chapters of The Graveyard Book that could stand alone as discrete short stories. All the better for reading at bedtime, though, and what's lost in forward momentum is more than made up for by the outrageous riches of Gaiman's imagination. Every page is crowded with invention, both funny and scary, such as the dour Miss Lupescu, who comes to teach Bod unpleasant lessons, or the final mythology of why Bod is being hunted. Gaiman's villains are a creation so creepy I would happily read a whole other novel just about them. And yes, they are indeed a pack of terrifying murderers, but children's books have always been filled with death - you can't have an orphan without at least two dead people, after all - and Gaiman's ultimate lesson is exactly right: get to know it, make friends with it, then forget about it and live your life."

Edinger, M. (2009). Raised by Ghosts. Retrieved from http://www.nytimes.com/2009/02/15/books/review/Edinger-t.html?_r=0.

"While “The Graveyard Book” will entertain people of all ages, it’s especially a tale for children. Gaiman’s remarkable cemetery is a place that children more than anyone would want to visit. They would certainly want to look for Silas in his chapel, maybe climb down (if they were as brave as Bod) to the oldest burial chamber, or (if they were as reckless) search for the ghoul gate. Children will appreciate Bod’s occasional mistakes and bad manners, and relish his good acts and eventual great ones. The story’s language and humor are sophisticated, but Gaiman respects his readers and trusts them to understand.

I read the last of “The Graveyard Book” to my class on a gloomy day. For close to an hour there were the sounds of only rain and story. In this novel of wonder, Neil Gaiman follows in the footsteps of long-ago storytellers, weaving a tale of unforgettable ­enchantment."

Library Use Suggestions: 
In fifth grade, my English teacher would read us a chapter or two of various books before our creative writing time. It was meant to inspire or spur us on during our writing. It also illustrated how we could write to tell a story in a more creative way. This is an example of a book that would be awesome for this purpose. 

Module 4: Miss Hickory by Carolyn Sherwin Bailey

Module 4: Newbery Winners

Miss Hickory by Carolyn Sherwin Bailey
Illustrated with Lithographs by Ruth Gannett

Bailey, C. (1946). Miss Hickory. New York, NY: Viking Penguin.

Plot Summary:
The story follows an apple twig doll with a hickory nut head, Miss Hickory, though the trials of surviving a winter in the woods, when her human family leaves for Boston. Her corncob house cannot withstand the harsh winter that is to come, so she must move to a Robin's nest in an apple tree which Crow has helped her find.  During the winter, she meets new friends and engages in new adventures. She helps Hen-Pheasant form a Ladies' Aid society for the female pheasants who have been pushed away by their cocks and teaches her to quilt. Miss Hickory also meets Squirrel who she she has a series of uncomfortable situations with. She goes to the Christmas celebration at the Barn and sees a variety of animals, but misses the manager because she arrived late. 

When spring finally arrives, she encounters housing troubles again when birds have moved into her nest and laid eggs. After an aggressive encounter over the nest ownership, she walks alone in her ruined spring clothes and eventually finds herself in Squirrel's hole. An argument between Squirrel and Miss Hickory breaks out and he eats her head. A headless Miss Hickory flees and runs back to the apple tree. She climbs up the branches towards the sun. Suddenly she is overwhelmed with energy and life. She has become a scion, which reinvigorates the tree and it begins to bloom, and starts a new life as part of the apple tree. 

Impressions:

While this story is quaint and has an appealing country vibe, I found the story to be excessively long. The tales of the various animals preparing for and surviving winter are interesting, but drawn out. Miss Hickory is not a particularly friendly character, so I am not emotionally attached to her. I am just following her winter story. Finally, the ending is the most unsettling portion of the book. The Squirrel straight up eats her head. It is a shocking and off putting turn of event. But somehow it turns out okay because she becomes part of a tree? It doesn't really work in my opinion, but it turns a tragic end for Miss Hickory into a new beginning. 

Reviews:

Miss Hickory by Carolyn Sherwin Bailey | Kirkus Reviews. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/carolyn-sherwin-bailey-4/miss-hickory/

"Frankly, we found it long-winded and dull adventures with an air of preciousness throughout. The author is better at recreating old customs than in telling an original story.

Gillespie, J. T., & Naden, C. J. (2001). Newbery Winner 1947. The Newbery Companion: Booktalk and Related Materials for Newbery Medal and Honor Books (pg.143). Greenwood Village, Colorado: Libraries Unlimited.

"This is a delightful fantasy that enters the country of a child's imagination and preserves the rhapsodies of childhood. It depicts the charm of a New Hampshire winter from an angle that humans never know." 

Library Use Suggestions: 

Miss Hickory would make a good edition to a display on illustration. The lithograph illustrations by Ruth Gannett are a great example of a different style of artwork in books.

Additionally, Miss Hickory could be used as a way to demonstrate changes in seasons for older children. The stories of the different animals give the reader a view of how the different animals act during winter and how their prepare. I would suggest excerpts rather than the whole book. It is not a perfect representation of nature (it is fiction after all), but it could lead into further discussion.