BIBLIOGRAPHY
de Haan, Linda, and Nijland Stern. 2002. KING AND KING. Tricycle Press. ISBN-10: 1582460612 ISBN-13: 978-1582460611
SUMMARY
The Queen decides that it is time for Prince Bertie to marry. The Queen wants to pass the throne to her son but the stipulation is, that he must marry before the end of summer. The problem is, the Prince doesn't like any of the princesses that are coming to visit. They come to visit from far away. The princess from Texas does magic tricks but it just isn't what Prince Bertie is looking for. One princess has long arms that will be perfect for waving. He can't find anyone that interests him until Princess Madeleine arrives. When she enters the room to meet the prince with her brother Prince Lee at her side, they both remark, "Oh, what a wonderful prince." A wedding is planned for Prince Bertie and Prince Lee. After the joyful wedding and picnic, the Queen retires to a life of leisure with her newly married son as King. The two Kings go off on a trip in a sequel of King and King and family.
The royal kitty makes an appearance through out the story.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS
KING AND KING is an entertaining story with diverse characters. The book was written and illustrated by two Dutch authors from the Netherlands. It is considered controversial by some readers in the United States with it's homosexual theme. It is applauded by many for sharing the subject of gay marriage. The book shares the idea that everyone is different. It is OK to fall in love with anyone and be happy in whatever situation you find yourself.
The illustrations are very bright and colorful. They are busy collages with cut paper and fabric. The illustrations have a folk art appearance that adds flavor to the story of two princes in love. The style of the illustrations are unusual but join in the idea that acceptance of things that are different makes the book complete. The Queen is considered to be unattractive in the illustrations. It has been suggested that she resembles Queen Victoria. The crown kitty adds an extra bit of frivolity and fun. It is recommended for ages six and up.
REVIEWS
Publishers Weekly
When a grouchy queen tells her layabout son that it's time for him to marry, he sighs, "Very well, Mother.... I must say, though, I've never cared much for princesses." His young page winks. Several unsatisfactory bachelorettes visit the castle before "Princess Madeleine and her brother, Prince Lee" appear in the doorway. The hero is smitten at once. "What a wonderful prince!" he and Prince Lee both exclaim, as a shower of tiny Valentine hearts flutters between them. First-time co-authors and artists de Hann and Nijland matter-of-factly conclude with the royal wedding of "King and King," the page boy's blushing romance with the leftover princess and the assurance that "everyone lives happily ever after." Unfortunately, the multimedia collages are cluttered with clashing colors, amorphous paper shapes, scribbles of ink and bleary brushstrokes; the characters' features are indistinct and sometimes ugly. Despite its gleeful disruption of the boy-meets-girl formula, this alterna-tale is not the fairest of them all. For a visually appealing and more nuanced treatment of diversity in general, Kitty Crowther's recent Jack and Jim is a better choice. Ages 6-up.
Copyright 2002 Cahners Business Information, Inc.
School Library Journal
Grades 3-5--In this postmodern fractured fairy tale, a worn-out and badly beleaguered Queen is ready for retirement. After many hours of nagging, the crown prince, who "never cared much for princesses," finally caves in and agrees to wed in order to ascend the throne. Their search for a suitable bride extends far and wide, but none of the eligible princesses strikes the Prince's fancy, until Princess Madeleine shows up. The Prince is immediately smitten- with her brother, Prince Lee. The wedding is "very special," the Queen settles down on a chaise lounge in the sun, and everyone lives happily ever after. Originally published in the Netherlands, this is a commendable fledgling effort with good intentions toward its subject matter. Unfortunately, though, the book is hobbled by thin characterization and ugly artwork; the homosexual prince comes across as fragile and languid, while the dour, matronly queen is a dead ringer for England's Victoria at her aesthetic worst. Some of the details in the artwork are interesting, including the "crown kitty" performing antics in the periphery. However, that isn't enough to compensate for page after page of cluttered, disjointed, ill-conceived art. The book does present same-sex marriage as a viable, acceptable way of life within an immediately recognizable narrative form, the fairy tale. However, those looking for picture books about alternative lifestyles may want to keep looking for a barrier-breaking classic on the subject.Catherine Threadgill, Charleston County Public Library, SCCopyright 2002 Cahners Business Information, Inc.
CONNECTIONS
*Other books for children that share an alternative lifestyle
Newman,Leslea. 2000. Heather Has Two Mommies. Diana Souza Illustrator
Alyson Publications; 10 Anv edition ISBN-10: 1555835430 ISBN-13: 978-1555835439
Parr, Todd. 2003. The Family Book. Little, Brown Young Readers; 1st ed edition ISBN-10: 0316738964 ISBN-13: 978-0316738965
Skutch, Robert. 1997. Who's in a Family?. Laura Nienhaus, Illustrator. Tricycle Press. ISBN-10: 188367266X ISBN-13: 978-1883672669
And Tango Makes Three Peter Parnell. Justin Richardson. Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing (April 26, 2005) ISBN-10: 0689878451 ISBN-13: 978-0689878459
Saturday, August 4, 2007
SAMIR AND YONATAN by Daniella Carmi
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Carmi,Daniella. 2002. SAMIR AND YONATAN, Blue Sky Press. ISBN-10: 0439135230 ISBN-13: 978-0439135238
SUMMARY
Samir is a young Palestinian boy living in Israel. He fractured his knee when he crashed his bicycle on a steep hill. He must go to the Jewish hospital on the other side of town to have surgery. His father waits several days to receive permission to take Samir to the hospital. When he is admitted into the Jewish hospital he shares a room with four Israeli children. Samir's four new friends in the hospital are Jewish and would have been his enemies in another setting. The doctor from America comes but Samir is running a fever and must wait for surgery. As the days pass, the children become friends. Yonatan shares his stories of the stars that he has read and learned from his father.
After the surgery, Samir gets therapy for his leg. Felix, the male nurse has been good to Samir and helps him in the hospital. As time nears for Samir to leave the hospital his spirit appears to be awakened.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS
This is an interesting story about a young boy living in a dangerous environment. His life involves road blocks, curfews and soldiers. It is a look at what life is like for people living in an occupied territory. Samir's younger brother was shot in the back while playing in the street. Samir imagines that he takes his brother's place in death. He feels guilt that his young brother was killed. Rather than a bicycle wreck he thinks it would have been better to have been shot in the leg.
In the hospital, while waiting for surgery he is amazed at the food he is given. He is given three meals a day and the meat that his new friend Yonatan will not eat.
Samir has thoughts of his friend Adnan and his mischievous ways. His old friendship contrasts with his new friendship with Jonatan. The roles of friend and enemy are left open to discovery.
While in the hospital he does not have visitors. The road blocks prevent his parents from traveling. His mother works two jobs and his father runs a barbershop in a time when people cut their hair at home. The book by Carmi, tells of an unfamiliar way of life. It will be surprising for children in the United States to discover the lifestyle of a child living in fear in another country.
Unlike children in most areas of the the United States, Samir is unfamiliar with computer games. When Yonatan shows him how to escape from the here and now, and take an imaginary trip to Mars, Samir is exposed to a different future with possibilities. The story ends with several questions left unanswered.
First published in Hebrew in 1994. The glossary at the end of the book gives definitions of the Hebrew and Palestinian words and phrases. The cover art was created by Rafal Oblinski with acrylic paint. A dove shaped opening in a brick wall represents the opened barrier created by friendship.
REVIEWS
Publishers Weekly
SAMIR AND YONATAN Daniella Carmi. "A Palestinian boy comes to terms with his younger brother's death by an Israeli soldier in this slow-paced but affecting novel originally published in Hebrew in 1994," said PW. Ages 10-up.
Copyright 2002 Cahners Business Information, Inc.
School Library Journal
Grade 4-8-Riding his bicycle down the market steps, a young Palestinian falls and smashes his knee so badly that he needs surgery. For the first time in his life, Samir leaves his home in the Occupied Territories to go to a Jewish hospital where an American doctor will operate on him. While waiting for the procedure, Samir gets to know the other children on his ward, all Jews. Beautiful Ludmilla is pining away for her home in Russia and refusing to eat. Razia hides under her bed in fear of her father. Hyperactive Tzahi can't urinate properly and, most importantly, Yonatan with the crippled arm introduces Samir to the stars, computer games, and the way imagination can take one away from a place of pain. As Samir thinks about the home he misses, details of his family life are revealed. Readers learn that his younger brother was killed, shot while playing in the street by a man wearing the same uniform that Tzahi's brother wears when he visits. His older brother has gone to Kuwait to earn money and his mother works two jobs. His father has stopped talking. As the hospitalized children spend time together, they come to support one another, forming a team that crosses cultural boundaries. Samir and Yonatan take an illegal night outing to commandeer an office computer to play a game. Life in the hospital is described as clearly as life in the Occupied Territories and readers will sympathize with Samir's fear and loneliness and welcome his new friendships. Written in Hebrew but published first in Germany, the book is smoothly translated and will have wide appeal.
Kathleen Isaacs, Edmund Burke School, Washington, DC
Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.
CONNECTIONS
*Other books about Palestinian and Israeli children.
Ellis, Deborah. 2006. Three Wishes: Palestinian and Israeli Children Speak. Groundwood Books. ISBN-10: 0888996454 ISBN-13: 978-0888996459
Rifa'i, Amal, Odelia Ainbinder and Sylke Tempel. 2003. We Just Want to Live Here: A Palestinian Teenager, an Israeli Teenager -- an Unlikely Friendship
St. Martin's Griffin. ISBN-10: 0312318944 ISBN-13: 978-0312318949
Nye, Naomi Shihab. 1999. Habibi. Simon Pulse. ISBN-10: 0689825234 ISBN-13: 978-0689825231
*Share a map or globe of Samir and Jonatan's home. Discuss the friendship of the two boys.
Carmi,Daniella. 2002. SAMIR AND YONATAN, Blue Sky Press. ISBN-10: 0439135230 ISBN-13: 978-0439135238
SUMMARY
Samir is a young Palestinian boy living in Israel. He fractured his knee when he crashed his bicycle on a steep hill. He must go to the Jewish hospital on the other side of town to have surgery. His father waits several days to receive permission to take Samir to the hospital. When he is admitted into the Jewish hospital he shares a room with four Israeli children. Samir's four new friends in the hospital are Jewish and would have been his enemies in another setting. The doctor from America comes but Samir is running a fever and must wait for surgery. As the days pass, the children become friends. Yonatan shares his stories of the stars that he has read and learned from his father.
After the surgery, Samir gets therapy for his leg. Felix, the male nurse has been good to Samir and helps him in the hospital. As time nears for Samir to leave the hospital his spirit appears to be awakened.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS
This is an interesting story about a young boy living in a dangerous environment. His life involves road blocks, curfews and soldiers. It is a look at what life is like for people living in an occupied territory. Samir's younger brother was shot in the back while playing in the street. Samir imagines that he takes his brother's place in death. He feels guilt that his young brother was killed. Rather than a bicycle wreck he thinks it would have been better to have been shot in the leg.
In the hospital, while waiting for surgery he is amazed at the food he is given. He is given three meals a day and the meat that his new friend Yonatan will not eat.
Samir has thoughts of his friend Adnan and his mischievous ways. His old friendship contrasts with his new friendship with Jonatan. The roles of friend and enemy are left open to discovery.
While in the hospital he does not have visitors. The road blocks prevent his parents from traveling. His mother works two jobs and his father runs a barbershop in a time when people cut their hair at home. The book by Carmi, tells of an unfamiliar way of life. It will be surprising for children in the United States to discover the lifestyle of a child living in fear in another country.
Unlike children in most areas of the the United States, Samir is unfamiliar with computer games. When Yonatan shows him how to escape from the here and now, and take an imaginary trip to Mars, Samir is exposed to a different future with possibilities. The story ends with several questions left unanswered.
First published in Hebrew in 1994. The glossary at the end of the book gives definitions of the Hebrew and Palestinian words and phrases. The cover art was created by Rafal Oblinski with acrylic paint. A dove shaped opening in a brick wall represents the opened barrier created by friendship.
REVIEWS
Publishers Weekly
SAMIR AND YONATAN Daniella Carmi. "A Palestinian boy comes to terms with his younger brother's death by an Israeli soldier in this slow-paced but affecting novel originally published in Hebrew in 1994," said PW. Ages 10-up.
Copyright 2002 Cahners Business Information, Inc.
School Library Journal
Grade 4-8-Riding his bicycle down the market steps, a young Palestinian falls and smashes his knee so badly that he needs surgery. For the first time in his life, Samir leaves his home in the Occupied Territories to go to a Jewish hospital where an American doctor will operate on him. While waiting for the procedure, Samir gets to know the other children on his ward, all Jews. Beautiful Ludmilla is pining away for her home in Russia and refusing to eat. Razia hides under her bed in fear of her father. Hyperactive Tzahi can't urinate properly and, most importantly, Yonatan with the crippled arm introduces Samir to the stars, computer games, and the way imagination can take one away from a place of pain. As Samir thinks about the home he misses, details of his family life are revealed. Readers learn that his younger brother was killed, shot while playing in the street by a man wearing the same uniform that Tzahi's brother wears when he visits. His older brother has gone to Kuwait to earn money and his mother works two jobs. His father has stopped talking. As the hospitalized children spend time together, they come to support one another, forming a team that crosses cultural boundaries. Samir and Yonatan take an illegal night outing to commandeer an office computer to play a game. Life in the hospital is described as clearly as life in the Occupied Territories and readers will sympathize with Samir's fear and loneliness and welcome his new friendships. Written in Hebrew but published first in Germany, the book is smoothly translated and will have wide appeal.
Kathleen Isaacs, Edmund Burke School, Washington, DC
Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.
CONNECTIONS
*Other books about Palestinian and Israeli children.
Ellis, Deborah. 2006. Three Wishes: Palestinian and Israeli Children Speak. Groundwood Books. ISBN-10: 0888996454 ISBN-13: 978-0888996459
Rifa'i, Amal, Odelia Ainbinder and Sylke Tempel. 2003. We Just Want to Live Here: A Palestinian Teenager, an Israeli Teenager -- an Unlikely Friendship
St. Martin's Griffin. ISBN-10: 0312318944 ISBN-13: 978-0312318949
Nye, Naomi Shihab. 1999. Habibi. Simon Pulse. ISBN-10: 0689825234 ISBN-13: 978-0689825231
*Share a map or globe of Samir and Jonatan's home. Discuss the friendship of the two boys.
MOSES GOES TO A CONCERT by Isaac Millman
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Millman, Isaac. 2002. MOSES GOES TO A CONCERT. Farrar, Straus and Giroux. ISBN-10: 0374453667 ISBN-13: 978-0374453664
SUMMARY
Moses and his classmates are deaf. Their teacher, Mr. Samuels takes them on a field trip to a concert. He has a suitcase that holds a surprise for his students. At the concert they are given balloons from the suitcase to feel the vibrations of the music. After the concert they meet a percussionist that is deaf and plays music in her socks. She can feel the vibrations with her feet. The percussionist, Ms. Elwyn, lets the class try all her musical instruments. Ms. Elwyn is a friend of Mr. Samuels. Moses plans to work hard and become a percussionist too.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS
The book, MOSES GOES TO THE CONCERT, is the first in a series about Moses. The book includes an introduction to American Sign Language. The last page of the book includes the alphabet in sign language. The illustrations are lively and colorful watercolor paintings. The perspective and depth of the illustrations adds interest and gives a realistic impression of a concert experience. The book includes inserts of Moses signing words and sentences, "I feel vibrations," and "When you set your mind to it, you can become anything."
The story of Moses is helpful for children to understand the disability of being deaf. When the audience claps the deaf children wave their hands. The sign language included in the book is a good introduction for learning sign language. The book, MOSES GOES TO A CONCERT, inspires everyone to work hard to accomplish their goals. The story is relatable to children that are deaf. It helps readers to understand a little about deafness. It is appropriate for children age 4 – 10.
REVIEWS
From Publishers Weekly
The seemingly incongruous premise of this harmonious debut, a class of deaf children attends an orchestral concert, leads to a revelation for readers who may well have assumed that the ability to hear is a prerequisite for enjoying music. Holding balloons that their teacher passes out to help them "feel the music," Moses and his classmates are thrilled to pick up the vibrations. Afterward, they visit with the orchestra's deaf percussionist, who, intriguingly, performs in stocking feet so she, too, can feel the beat. She lets the students play her instruments and, using American Sign Language (precisely illustrated in easy-to-read diagrams), explains how she worked hard to achieve her career goal. Back home, Moses tells his parents about his day, signing a message of universal value: "When you set your mind to it, you can become anything you want." An introductory note explains how to interpret the sign-language diagrams, which are integrated throughout the clear and colorful illustrations. Fiction and instruction make beautiful music together on these cheerful pages. Ages 5-up.
Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From School Library Journal
PreSchool-Grade 2?A group of deaf children is taken to a concert where the youngsters meet the percussionist, a friend of their teacher, and learn to their surprise that she is also deaf. She explains to Moses and his class how she became a percussionist even though she had lost her hearing and helps them understand that anything is possible with hard work and determination. She lets the children play on her instruments and feel the vibrations on balloons that their teacher has given them. Cheerful watercolor illustrations show the multiethnic children enjoying themselves at the concert, while smaller cartoon strips feature Moses' additional comments in sign language. A page displaying the manual alphabet and a conversation in sign language in which Moses tells his parents about his day enhance the upbeat story. Sally R. Dow, Ossining Public Library, NY
Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.
CONNECTIONS
*Share books about deafness with the children. Teach the alphabet in sign language.
Millman, Isaac. 2003. Moses Goes to the Circus. Farrar, Straus and Giroux. Language: English ISBN-10: 0374350647 ISBN-13: 978-0374350642
Millman, Isaac. 2004. Moses Sees a Play. Farrar, Straus and Giroux. ISBN-10: 0374350663 ISBN-13: 978-0374350666
Aseltine, Lorraine, Evelyn Mueller and Nancy Tait. 1986. I'm Deaf and It's Okay. Albert Whitman & Company ISBN-10: 0807534722 ISBN-13: 978-0807534724
Millman, Isaac. 2002. MOSES GOES TO A CONCERT. Farrar, Straus and Giroux. ISBN-10: 0374453667 ISBN-13: 978-0374453664
SUMMARY
Moses and his classmates are deaf. Their teacher, Mr. Samuels takes them on a field trip to a concert. He has a suitcase that holds a surprise for his students. At the concert they are given balloons from the suitcase to feel the vibrations of the music. After the concert they meet a percussionist that is deaf and plays music in her socks. She can feel the vibrations with her feet. The percussionist, Ms. Elwyn, lets the class try all her musical instruments. Ms. Elwyn is a friend of Mr. Samuels. Moses plans to work hard and become a percussionist too.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS
The book, MOSES GOES TO THE CONCERT, is the first in a series about Moses. The book includes an introduction to American Sign Language. The last page of the book includes the alphabet in sign language. The illustrations are lively and colorful watercolor paintings. The perspective and depth of the illustrations adds interest and gives a realistic impression of a concert experience. The book includes inserts of Moses signing words and sentences, "I feel vibrations," and "When you set your mind to it, you can become anything."
The story of Moses is helpful for children to understand the disability of being deaf. When the audience claps the deaf children wave their hands. The sign language included in the book is a good introduction for learning sign language. The book, MOSES GOES TO A CONCERT, inspires everyone to work hard to accomplish their goals. The story is relatable to children that are deaf. It helps readers to understand a little about deafness. It is appropriate for children age 4 – 10.
REVIEWS
From Publishers Weekly
The seemingly incongruous premise of this harmonious debut, a class of deaf children attends an orchestral concert, leads to a revelation for readers who may well have assumed that the ability to hear is a prerequisite for enjoying music. Holding balloons that their teacher passes out to help them "feel the music," Moses and his classmates are thrilled to pick up the vibrations. Afterward, they visit with the orchestra's deaf percussionist, who, intriguingly, performs in stocking feet so she, too, can feel the beat. She lets the students play her instruments and, using American Sign Language (precisely illustrated in easy-to-read diagrams), explains how she worked hard to achieve her career goal. Back home, Moses tells his parents about his day, signing a message of universal value: "When you set your mind to it, you can become anything you want." An introductory note explains how to interpret the sign-language diagrams, which are integrated throughout the clear and colorful illustrations. Fiction and instruction make beautiful music together on these cheerful pages. Ages 5-up.
Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From School Library Journal
PreSchool-Grade 2?A group of deaf children is taken to a concert where the youngsters meet the percussionist, a friend of their teacher, and learn to their surprise that she is also deaf. She explains to Moses and his class how she became a percussionist even though she had lost her hearing and helps them understand that anything is possible with hard work and determination. She lets the children play on her instruments and feel the vibrations on balloons that their teacher has given them. Cheerful watercolor illustrations show the multiethnic children enjoying themselves at the concert, while smaller cartoon strips feature Moses' additional comments in sign language. A page displaying the manual alphabet and a conversation in sign language in which Moses tells his parents about his day enhance the upbeat story. Sally R. Dow, Ossining Public Library, NY
Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.
CONNECTIONS
*Share books about deafness with the children. Teach the alphabet in sign language.
Millman, Isaac. 2003. Moses Goes to the Circus. Farrar, Straus and Giroux. Language: English ISBN-10: 0374350647 ISBN-13: 978-0374350642
Millman, Isaac. 2004. Moses Sees a Play. Farrar, Straus and Giroux. ISBN-10: 0374350663 ISBN-13: 978-0374350666
Aseltine, Lorraine, Evelyn Mueller and Nancy Tait. 1986. I'm Deaf and It's Okay. Albert Whitman & Company ISBN-10: 0807534722 ISBN-13: 978-0807534724
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
THE HUNGRIEST BOY IN THE WORLD by Lensey Namioka
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Namioka, Lensey. 2001. The Hungriest Boy in the World. Illustrator, Aki Sogabe. Holiday House; 1st ed edition ISBN-10: 0823415422 ISBN-13: 978-0823415427
SUMMARY
A young Japanese boy named Jiro has a habit of putting everything in his mouth. He picks up a purple slimy blob and pops it in his mouth. Jiro has a hunger monster slide down his throat and now he can't get enough to eat. His sister is very observant and notices the unusual occurrences. He eats a bucket of fish guts and part of a fishing net. He even eats his blanket in his sleep. His family calls in the doctor for help but Jiro ate all the doctors' medicine. Next his father took him to the priest but he ate the priest's string of beads. The medium is called in and tells the family about the Hunger Monster. A puppeteer is called to help with the problem. The family prepares a feast that they put out for the puppet. The Hunger Monster can't resist the food and jumps into the mouth of the puppet. It falls to the floor were it is swept out the door.
CRITICAL REVIEW
The Hungriest Boy in the World is a story published in 2001 that appears to be an old time folktale. It tells the story of excess and gluttony in a humorous tale. It is an entertaining story that will be enjoyed by children.
The characters in the story wear traditional clothing and eat Japanese foods of rice balls and fish. In the story the father and his sons eat first with mother and sister eating last. The family sits on cushions on the floor at a low table. The beds are pallets on the floor with head cushions. Silk screen walls are another item that represents the Japanese culture. Jiro's family are fisherman, an occupation that is stereotypical of a Japanese family. The author is Chinese but has been married to a Japanese man for many years. The doctor visits Jiro and uses the traditional Eastern medicine technique of diagnosing with the pulse. The book is timeless. It can't be determined if the customs and traditions in the book are current for today or a hundred years ago.
Sogabes' is a Japanese artist that has lived in Seattle Washington since 1978. The illustrations are in a traditional Japanese paper cut technique with watercolor and airbrush added for color. The heavy black line is the cut paper with rice paper as a background.
REVIEWS
From Publishers Weekly
Namioka (The Laziest Boy in the World) pens another amusing original tale, this one set in Japan. Jiro's bad habit of putting everything in his mouth causes him to swallow the Hunger Monster. Suddenly the boy is ravenous, indiscriminately wolfing down everything from sushi to fishing nets ("They looked like noodles, delicious noodles, seasoned with soy sauce"), his quilt, a floor cushion--whatever comes within his reach. When a doctor is called, Jiro gobbles down all his medicines. When a medium is consulted, Jiro tries to eat her hair--though not before she fingers the Hunger Monster as the culprit. Finally, Jiro's brother suggests they call in a puppet master, who tricks the creature into leaving Jiro's stomach. Namioka's light, comic touch extends to her jaunty pacing, setting a tone that Sogabe (The Loyal Cat) extends with her stylish cut-paper, watercolor and airbrush illustrations. Set in an old-world Japan complete with kimonos and forest temples, and peopled with chunky, heavily outlined figures, her airy compositions underscore the folktale aura, while the impossibly fat-cheeked Jiro steals every scene. Ages 4-8.
Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc.
From School Library Journal
K-Gr 3-Jiro, a Japanese boy, has a bad habit. He puts everything in his mouth, be it seashells, seaweed, or sushi. When the child accidentally swallows the Hunger Monster, his troubles and readers' fun begin. Jiro's appetite runs rampant, and he consumes everything from fish guts and netting to his own bed quilt. His parents frantically seek assistance from the doctor, the village priest, and a medium, as Jiro snacks on the doctor's medicines, the priest's prayer beads, and the medium's hair. The situation eventually reaches a clever and happy solution. The story is told economically but with wit and humor. Sogabe's illustrations, created using cut paper over rice paper that has been colored by airbrush or watercolor, complement the text with their elegant simplicity. Pair this tale with Jim Aylesworth's The Full Belly Bowl (Atheneum, 1999) for a discussion of the hazards of excess, incorporate it into multicultural units, or enjoy it for sheer fun.-Grace Oliff, Ann Blanche Smith School, Hillsdale, NJ
Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc.
CONNECTIONS
Other books by Lensey Namioka
Ties That Bind, Ties That Break. 2003. Puffin Books; New Ed edition. ISBN-10: 0141317159 ISBN-13: 978-0141317151
Half and Half Yearling. 2004. ISBN-10: 0440418909 ISBN-13: 978-0440418900
An Ocean Apart, a World Away Laurel Leaf. 2003. ISBN-10: 0440229731 ISBN-13: 978-0440229735
Namioka, Lensey. 2001. The Hungriest Boy in the World. Illustrator, Aki Sogabe. Holiday House; 1st ed edition ISBN-10: 0823415422 ISBN-13: 978-0823415427
SUMMARY
A young Japanese boy named Jiro has a habit of putting everything in his mouth. He picks up a purple slimy blob and pops it in his mouth. Jiro has a hunger monster slide down his throat and now he can't get enough to eat. His sister is very observant and notices the unusual occurrences. He eats a bucket of fish guts and part of a fishing net. He even eats his blanket in his sleep. His family calls in the doctor for help but Jiro ate all the doctors' medicine. Next his father took him to the priest but he ate the priest's string of beads. The medium is called in and tells the family about the Hunger Monster. A puppeteer is called to help with the problem. The family prepares a feast that they put out for the puppet. The Hunger Monster can't resist the food and jumps into the mouth of the puppet. It falls to the floor were it is swept out the door.
CRITICAL REVIEW
The Hungriest Boy in the World is a story published in 2001 that appears to be an old time folktale. It tells the story of excess and gluttony in a humorous tale. It is an entertaining story that will be enjoyed by children.
The characters in the story wear traditional clothing and eat Japanese foods of rice balls and fish. In the story the father and his sons eat first with mother and sister eating last. The family sits on cushions on the floor at a low table. The beds are pallets on the floor with head cushions. Silk screen walls are another item that represents the Japanese culture. Jiro's family are fisherman, an occupation that is stereotypical of a Japanese family. The author is Chinese but has been married to a Japanese man for many years. The doctor visits Jiro and uses the traditional Eastern medicine technique of diagnosing with the pulse. The book is timeless. It can't be determined if the customs and traditions in the book are current for today or a hundred years ago.
Sogabes' is a Japanese artist that has lived in Seattle Washington since 1978. The illustrations are in a traditional Japanese paper cut technique with watercolor and airbrush added for color. The heavy black line is the cut paper with rice paper as a background.
REVIEWS
From Publishers Weekly
Namioka (The Laziest Boy in the World) pens another amusing original tale, this one set in Japan. Jiro's bad habit of putting everything in his mouth causes him to swallow the Hunger Monster. Suddenly the boy is ravenous, indiscriminately wolfing down everything from sushi to fishing nets ("They looked like noodles, delicious noodles, seasoned with soy sauce"), his quilt, a floor cushion--whatever comes within his reach. When a doctor is called, Jiro gobbles down all his medicines. When a medium is consulted, Jiro tries to eat her hair--though not before she fingers the Hunger Monster as the culprit. Finally, Jiro's brother suggests they call in a puppet master, who tricks the creature into leaving Jiro's stomach. Namioka's light, comic touch extends to her jaunty pacing, setting a tone that Sogabe (The Loyal Cat) extends with her stylish cut-paper, watercolor and airbrush illustrations. Set in an old-world Japan complete with kimonos and forest temples, and peopled with chunky, heavily outlined figures, her airy compositions underscore the folktale aura, while the impossibly fat-cheeked Jiro steals every scene. Ages 4-8.
Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc.
From School Library Journal
K-Gr 3-Jiro, a Japanese boy, has a bad habit. He puts everything in his mouth, be it seashells, seaweed, or sushi. When the child accidentally swallows the Hunger Monster, his troubles and readers' fun begin. Jiro's appetite runs rampant, and he consumes everything from fish guts and netting to his own bed quilt. His parents frantically seek assistance from the doctor, the village priest, and a medium, as Jiro snacks on the doctor's medicines, the priest's prayer beads, and the medium's hair. The situation eventually reaches a clever and happy solution. The story is told economically but with wit and humor. Sogabe's illustrations, created using cut paper over rice paper that has been colored by airbrush or watercolor, complement the text with their elegant simplicity. Pair this tale with Jim Aylesworth's The Full Belly Bowl (Atheneum, 1999) for a discussion of the hazards of excess, incorporate it into multicultural units, or enjoy it for sheer fun.-Grace Oliff, Ann Blanche Smith School, Hillsdale, NJ
Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc.
CONNECTIONS
Other books by Lensey Namioka
Ties That Bind, Ties That Break. 2003. Puffin Books; New Ed edition. ISBN-10: 0141317159 ISBN-13: 978-0141317151
Half and Half Yearling. 2004. ISBN-10: 0440418909 ISBN-13: 978-0440418900
An Ocean Apart, a World Away Laurel Leaf. 2003. ISBN-10: 0440229731 ISBN-13: 978-0440229735
TEA WITH MILK by Allen Say
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Say, Allen. 1999. Tea with Milk Houghton Mifflin/Walter Lorraine Books; 1st Ed edition ISBN-10: 0395904951 ISBN-13: 978-0395904954
SUMMARY
Tea with Milk, is the story of Say's parents Masako and Joseph. Masako was born near San Francisco and lived there until she graduated from high school. After graduating her family moved to Japan. Masako, or May for short, was considered a foreigner and didn't fit in. She had hopes of going to college but returned to high school in Japan to learn traditional things that she didn't learn in California. After her mother meets with a matchmaker and plans an arranged marriage, May decides to take things in her own hand. She goes to the city and finds a job running an elevator in a department store. When an English speaking family needs help communicating and getting directions, May is able to guide them. May is promoted to working with the customers that speak English. In her new position she meets a young businessman that was Japanese but raised by English foster parents. They become friends and discovered that they both grew up drinking tea with milk and sugar. When Joseph is transferred to another city, they decide to marry and start a new home together
CRITICAL REVIEW
Tea with Milk is a family story of a past generation. Say shares the cultural differences in the life his mother lived in California as a child before moving to Japan. In Japan she was expected to learn flower arranging and calligraphy. She was expected to wear a kimono and sit for long periods on the floor. It is interesting and shares several Japanese customs. When May is told she needs a husband she replies, "A husband! I'd rather have a turtle than a husband!" When she meets Joseph she changes her mind.
The illustrations by Allen Say are beautifully done. They resemble photographs from a family photo album. Older children and adults rather than the four to eight-year-old would appreciate the illustrations and story. The styles in the illustration are reminiscent of a time before Say was born.
REVIEW EXCERPTS
Kirkus Reviews
In describing how his parents met, Say continues to explore the ways that differing cultures can harmonize; raised near San Francisco and known as May everywhere except at home, where she is Masako, the child who will grow up to be Say's mother becomes a misfit when her family moves back to Japan. Rebelling against attempts to force her into the mold of a traditional Japanese woman, she leaves for Osaka, finds work as a department store translator, and meets Joseph, a Chinese businessman who not only speaks English, but prefers tea with milk and sugar, and persuades her that ``home isn't a place or a building that's ready-made or waiting for you, in America or anywhere else.'' Painted with characteristic control and restraint, Say's illustrations, largely portraits, begin with a sepia view of a sullen child in a kimono, gradually take on distinct, subdued color, and end with a formal shot of the smiling young couple in Western dress. A stately cousin to Ina R. Friedman's How My Parents Learned To Eat (1984), also illustrated by Say. (Picture book. 7-9) -- Copyright ©1999, Kirkus Associates, LP. All rights reserved.
Publishers Weekly
Say's masterfully executed watercolors tell as much of this story about a young woman's challenging transition from America to Japan as his eloquent, economical prose. Raised near San Francisco, Masako (her American friends called her May) is uprooted after high school when her parents return to their Japanese homeland. In addition to repeating high school to learn Japanese, she must learn the arts of a "proper Japanese lady" flower arranging, calligraphy and the tea ceremony, and is expected to marry well. Declaring "I'd rather have a turtle than a husband," the independent-minded Masako heads for the city of Osaka and gets a job in a department store. With his characteristic subtlety, Say sets off his cultural metaphor from the very start, contrasting the green tea Masako has for breakfast in her home, with the "tea with milk and sugar" she drinks at her friends' houses in America. Later, when she meets a young Japanese businessman who also prefers tea with milk and sugar to green tea, readers will know that she's met her match. Say reveals on the final page that the couple are his parents. Whether the subject is food ("no more pancakes or omelets, fried chicken or spaghetti" in Japan) or the deeper issues of ostracism (her fellow students call Masako "gaijin"Aforeigner) and gender expectations, Say provides gentle insights into human nature as well as East-West cultural differences. His exquisite, spare portraits convey emotions that lie close to the surface and flow easily from page to reader: with views of Masako's slumping posture and mask-like face as she dons her first kimono, or alone in the schoolyard, it's easy to sense her dejection. Through choice words and scrupulously choreographed paintings, Say's story communicates both the heart's yearning for individuality and freedom and how love and friendship can bridge cultural chasms. Ages 4-8.
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.
CONNECTIONS
Other books by Say
Say, Allen. 1993. GRANDFATHER'S JOURNEY. Houghton Mifflin/Walter Lorraine Books; ISBN-10: 0395570352 ISBN-13: 978-0395570357
Say, Allen. 1998. STRANGER IN THE MIRROR. Houghton Mifflin/Walter Lorraine Books; New Ed edition. ISBN-10: 039593883X ISBN-13: 978-0395938836
Say, Allen. 1989. THE BICYCLE MAN. Houghton Mifflin/Walter Lorraine Books; 1st Ed edition
ISBN-10: 0395506522 ISBN-13: 978-0395506523
Say, Allen. 2005. KAMISHIBAI MAN. Houghton Mifflin/Walter Lorraine Books.
ISBN-10: 0618479546 ISBN-13: 978-0618479542
*Work on a Genealogy project
Say, Allen. 1999. Tea with Milk Houghton Mifflin/Walter Lorraine Books; 1st Ed edition ISBN-10: 0395904951 ISBN-13: 978-0395904954
SUMMARY
Tea with Milk, is the story of Say's parents Masako and Joseph. Masako was born near San Francisco and lived there until she graduated from high school. After graduating her family moved to Japan. Masako, or May for short, was considered a foreigner and didn't fit in. She had hopes of going to college but returned to high school in Japan to learn traditional things that she didn't learn in California. After her mother meets with a matchmaker and plans an arranged marriage, May decides to take things in her own hand. She goes to the city and finds a job running an elevator in a department store. When an English speaking family needs help communicating and getting directions, May is able to guide them. May is promoted to working with the customers that speak English. In her new position she meets a young businessman that was Japanese but raised by English foster parents. They become friends and discovered that they both grew up drinking tea with milk and sugar. When Joseph is transferred to another city, they decide to marry and start a new home together
CRITICAL REVIEW
Tea with Milk is a family story of a past generation. Say shares the cultural differences in the life his mother lived in California as a child before moving to Japan. In Japan she was expected to learn flower arranging and calligraphy. She was expected to wear a kimono and sit for long periods on the floor. It is interesting and shares several Japanese customs. When May is told she needs a husband she replies, "A husband! I'd rather have a turtle than a husband!" When she meets Joseph she changes her mind.
The illustrations by Allen Say are beautifully done. They resemble photographs from a family photo album. Older children and adults rather than the four to eight-year-old would appreciate the illustrations and story. The styles in the illustration are reminiscent of a time before Say was born.
REVIEW EXCERPTS
Kirkus Reviews
In describing how his parents met, Say continues to explore the ways that differing cultures can harmonize; raised near San Francisco and known as May everywhere except at home, where she is Masako, the child who will grow up to be Say's mother becomes a misfit when her family moves back to Japan. Rebelling against attempts to force her into the mold of a traditional Japanese woman, she leaves for Osaka, finds work as a department store translator, and meets Joseph, a Chinese businessman who not only speaks English, but prefers tea with milk and sugar, and persuades her that ``home isn't a place or a building that's ready-made or waiting for you, in America or anywhere else.'' Painted with characteristic control and restraint, Say's illustrations, largely portraits, begin with a sepia view of a sullen child in a kimono, gradually take on distinct, subdued color, and end with a formal shot of the smiling young couple in Western dress. A stately cousin to Ina R. Friedman's How My Parents Learned To Eat (1984), also illustrated by Say. (Picture book. 7-9) -- Copyright ©1999, Kirkus Associates, LP. All rights reserved.
Publishers Weekly
Say's masterfully executed watercolors tell as much of this story about a young woman's challenging transition from America to Japan as his eloquent, economical prose. Raised near San Francisco, Masako (her American friends called her May) is uprooted after high school when her parents return to their Japanese homeland. In addition to repeating high school to learn Japanese, she must learn the arts of a "proper Japanese lady" flower arranging, calligraphy and the tea ceremony, and is expected to marry well. Declaring "I'd rather have a turtle than a husband," the independent-minded Masako heads for the city of Osaka and gets a job in a department store. With his characteristic subtlety, Say sets off his cultural metaphor from the very start, contrasting the green tea Masako has for breakfast in her home, with the "tea with milk and sugar" she drinks at her friends' houses in America. Later, when she meets a young Japanese businessman who also prefers tea with milk and sugar to green tea, readers will know that she's met her match. Say reveals on the final page that the couple are his parents. Whether the subject is food ("no more pancakes or omelets, fried chicken or spaghetti" in Japan) or the deeper issues of ostracism (her fellow students call Masako "gaijin"Aforeigner) and gender expectations, Say provides gentle insights into human nature as well as East-West cultural differences. His exquisite, spare portraits convey emotions that lie close to the surface and flow easily from page to reader: with views of Masako's slumping posture and mask-like face as she dons her first kimono, or alone in the schoolyard, it's easy to sense her dejection. Through choice words and scrupulously choreographed paintings, Say's story communicates both the heart's yearning for individuality and freedom and how love and friendship can bridge cultural chasms. Ages 4-8.
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.
CONNECTIONS
Other books by Say
Say, Allen. 1993. GRANDFATHER'S JOURNEY. Houghton Mifflin/Walter Lorraine Books; ISBN-10: 0395570352 ISBN-13: 978-0395570357
Say, Allen. 1998. STRANGER IN THE MIRROR. Houghton Mifflin/Walter Lorraine Books; New Ed edition. ISBN-10: 039593883X ISBN-13: 978-0395938836
Say, Allen. 1989. THE BICYCLE MAN. Houghton Mifflin/Walter Lorraine Books; 1st Ed edition
ISBN-10: 0395506522 ISBN-13: 978-0395506523
Say, Allen. 2005. KAMISHIBAI MAN. Houghton Mifflin/Walter Lorraine Books.
ISBN-10: 0618479546 ISBN-13: 978-0618479542
*Work on a Genealogy project
THE STAR FISHER by Laurence Yep
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Yep, Laurence. 1992. THE STAR FISHER. Puffin: New York ISBN-10: 0140360034 ISBN-13: 978-0140360035
SUMMARY
In 1927, a Chinese American family moves to West Virginia from Ohio. The Lee family opens a new laundry in an old school house. Their landlord, Miss Lucy, is a kind and interesting woman that befriends Joan and her family. Mrs. Lee grew up as the youngest child in her family and never learned to cook. After several ruined dinners Miss Lucy offers to teach Joan's mother to cook. Mrs. Lee is asked to bake a pie for the church social. With the help of Miss Lucy, Mrs. Lee presents a pie that is enjoyed by several people at the social. The majority of the people in Clarksburg are slow to accept the Lee family. With the help of Miss Lucy and the Reverend, the town begins to accept the Lee family and bring business to the laundry.
CRITICAL REVIEW
The story is based on the memories of the authors' family. Joan Lee is fifteen and born in America. According to her mother, she is sixteen in the Chinese tradition of counting from conception. The title of the book comes from a folktale. In the story that is told by Joan to her little sister, a farmer falls in love with a woman with a beautiful voice. The woman is a magical kingfisher bird. The farmer takes the woman away from her sisters by taking her magical feathered cloak. He hides the magic cloak from his wife to keep her from leaving. They marry and have a child. The child feels different from the other children and doesn't feel as if she belongs. After several years the mother discovers her cloak and flies away telling the child she will return for her. The child has been marked by the golden kingfishers and will also be a star fisher that has the freedom to fly away.
The folktale plays an integral part in the Star Fisher. The book relates the ideas in the folktale to Joan's feelings of being different and not fitting in. As the woman in the tale is held captive, Joan also feels that she needs to become independent from her parents. The mother's in both situations are looking for a way to return to what they know.
The Star Fisher is written in English. The reader is meant to read the story as if it has been told in Joan's home language. The words spoken in English by the characters are printed in Italics to differentiate them from the rest of the text.
Language is a barrier for the mother that speaks very little English. The mother is a strong character that wants to control her family. The mother and daughter share in the universal theme of 'leaving the nest'. Joan is growing up and has a need for independence. In the story, Joan and her mother begin to understand the needs of each other.
The Lee's are confronted with prejudice in their new home. They must deal with derogatory remarks and words painted on their fence. The laundry, in this story is based on the author's history. The Chinese Laundry is a stereotype that has been used over the years. It plays an important part in the story but perpetuates the stereotype. In The Star Fisher, Mr. Lee is a scholar that writes poems. Political problems in his home country forced him to start new life in America. The Lee family wears clothing like other Americans but are kept at a distance by most of the town because they look different. They are treated as if they are "fresh off the boat" and don't understand English. They eat apple pie and sandwiches and are in many ways, acculturated into the American lifestyle.
The Star Fisher is a quality story for children and adults. It is interesting and has depth in it's characters. It was a winner of the Christopher Award.
REVIEW EXCERPTS
Publishers Weekly
Based on the author's own experiences, this Christopher Award winner movingly describes a Chinese American family's adjustment to their new home in West Virginia in 1927 and the prejudice they encounter there. Ages 10-14.
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.
School Library Journal
Grade 6-8-- On the first night in their new home in a small West Virginia town, 15-year-old Joan Lee lulls her little sister to sleep with the story of a magical kingfisher who is held captive in human form by her mortal husband, but who is later helped by her daughter. She soon joins her mother in the stars, but is sometimes seen, comet like, attempting to bridge heaven and Earth. Joan, the oldest daughter of the only Chinese family in 1927 Clarksburg, at first sees only herself in the story's symbols: caught between two worlds. As she braves the curiosity and prejudice of the townspeople, helps bridge a friendship between her mother and an elderly neighbor, and gets acquainted with an enigmatic classmate, she realizes that she is not the only one struggling to find a niche. Joan's story will appeal to any reader who has ever felt excluded, but she and her family seem to hold many more stories begging to be shared. Based on tales Yep gleaned from his mother and her family, whose resilience and humor shine through, The Star Fisher offers tantalizing glimpses of interesting characters, but abruptly shifts focus from a family story with the younger sister as a strong character to a relationship between mother and daughter. Basically, there is too much depth and complexity here to be confined to one book. --Carla Kozak, San Francisco Public Library
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
CONNECTIONS
Other books by Yep
Yep, Laurence. 2001. COCKROACH COOTIES. Hyperion. ISBN-10: 0786813385 ISBN-13: 978-0786813384
Laurence Yep
2003. THE MAGIC PAINTBRUSH. HarperTrophy. ISBN-10: 0064408523 ISBN-13: 978-0064408523
Laurence Yep. DREAM SOUL.
*This books gives an opportunity for a discussion on predjudice.
Yep, Laurence. 1992. THE STAR FISHER. Puffin: New York ISBN-10: 0140360034 ISBN-13: 978-0140360035
SUMMARY
In 1927, a Chinese American family moves to West Virginia from Ohio. The Lee family opens a new laundry in an old school house. Their landlord, Miss Lucy, is a kind and interesting woman that befriends Joan and her family. Mrs. Lee grew up as the youngest child in her family and never learned to cook. After several ruined dinners Miss Lucy offers to teach Joan's mother to cook. Mrs. Lee is asked to bake a pie for the church social. With the help of Miss Lucy, Mrs. Lee presents a pie that is enjoyed by several people at the social. The majority of the people in Clarksburg are slow to accept the Lee family. With the help of Miss Lucy and the Reverend, the town begins to accept the Lee family and bring business to the laundry.
CRITICAL REVIEW
The story is based on the memories of the authors' family. Joan Lee is fifteen and born in America. According to her mother, she is sixteen in the Chinese tradition of counting from conception. The title of the book comes from a folktale. In the story that is told by Joan to her little sister, a farmer falls in love with a woman with a beautiful voice. The woman is a magical kingfisher bird. The farmer takes the woman away from her sisters by taking her magical feathered cloak. He hides the magic cloak from his wife to keep her from leaving. They marry and have a child. The child feels different from the other children and doesn't feel as if she belongs. After several years the mother discovers her cloak and flies away telling the child she will return for her. The child has been marked by the golden kingfishers and will also be a star fisher that has the freedom to fly away.
The folktale plays an integral part in the Star Fisher. The book relates the ideas in the folktale to Joan's feelings of being different and not fitting in. As the woman in the tale is held captive, Joan also feels that she needs to become independent from her parents. The mother's in both situations are looking for a way to return to what they know.
The Star Fisher is written in English. The reader is meant to read the story as if it has been told in Joan's home language. The words spoken in English by the characters are printed in Italics to differentiate them from the rest of the text.
Language is a barrier for the mother that speaks very little English. The mother is a strong character that wants to control her family. The mother and daughter share in the universal theme of 'leaving the nest'. Joan is growing up and has a need for independence. In the story, Joan and her mother begin to understand the needs of each other.
The Lee's are confronted with prejudice in their new home. They must deal with derogatory remarks and words painted on their fence. The laundry, in this story is based on the author's history. The Chinese Laundry is a stereotype that has been used over the years. It plays an important part in the story but perpetuates the stereotype. In The Star Fisher, Mr. Lee is a scholar that writes poems. Political problems in his home country forced him to start new life in America. The Lee family wears clothing like other Americans but are kept at a distance by most of the town because they look different. They are treated as if they are "fresh off the boat" and don't understand English. They eat apple pie and sandwiches and are in many ways, acculturated into the American lifestyle.
The Star Fisher is a quality story for children and adults. It is interesting and has depth in it's characters. It was a winner of the Christopher Award.
REVIEW EXCERPTS
Publishers Weekly
Based on the author's own experiences, this Christopher Award winner movingly describes a Chinese American family's adjustment to their new home in West Virginia in 1927 and the prejudice they encounter there. Ages 10-14.
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.
School Library Journal
Grade 6-8-- On the first night in their new home in a small West Virginia town, 15-year-old Joan Lee lulls her little sister to sleep with the story of a magical kingfisher who is held captive in human form by her mortal husband, but who is later helped by her daughter. She soon joins her mother in the stars, but is sometimes seen, comet like, attempting to bridge heaven and Earth. Joan, the oldest daughter of the only Chinese family in 1927 Clarksburg, at first sees only herself in the story's symbols: caught between two worlds. As she braves the curiosity and prejudice of the townspeople, helps bridge a friendship between her mother and an elderly neighbor, and gets acquainted with an enigmatic classmate, she realizes that she is not the only one struggling to find a niche. Joan's story will appeal to any reader who has ever felt excluded, but she and her family seem to hold many more stories begging to be shared. Based on tales Yep gleaned from his mother and her family, whose resilience and humor shine through, The Star Fisher offers tantalizing glimpses of interesting characters, but abruptly shifts focus from a family story with the younger sister as a strong character to a relationship between mother and daughter. Basically, there is too much depth and complexity here to be confined to one book. --Carla Kozak, San Francisco Public Library
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
CONNECTIONS
Other books by Yep
Yep, Laurence. 2001. COCKROACH COOTIES. Hyperion. ISBN-10: 0786813385 ISBN-13: 978-0786813384
Laurence Yep
2003. THE MAGIC PAINTBRUSH. HarperTrophy. ISBN-10: 0064408523 ISBN-13: 978-0064408523
Laurence Yep. DREAM SOUL.
*This books gives an opportunity for a discussion on predjudice.
Sunday, July 15, 2007
FOX SONG by Joseph Bruchac
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Bruchac, Joseph. 1993. FOX SONG. Putnam Juvenile. New York
ISBN-10: 0698115619 ISBN-13: 978-0698115613
SUMMARY
Grama Bowman was over ninety and Jamie's great grandma. They were very close and it has been hard for Jamie since Grama Bowman died. They had all lived together for the last six years by the Winooski River. It was the family way to take care of each other. Jamie and her Grama are Abenaki. Jamie's father was French but Grama had said they were good people and "quick to learn, and we were ready to teach them. I think that is why we kept on marrying them all these years." Grama had taught Jamie to pick wild berries and to make birch bark baskets. Grama Bowman had made Jamie laugh. They would walk into the woods and sip maple sap from the bucket. While in the woods, Grama tells Jamie, "when you are out here and I am not with you, you keep your eyes open. You might see her (the fox) and when you do, you will think of me." When Jamie walks in the woods now, she feels her Grama beside her. Grama had talked of the leaves and how they liked to dance. The leaves reminded Grama of her old people and made her remember that they are still with her. She taught Jamie a special song that would help Jamie if she was feeling alone. Grama had prepared Jamie, "when you are in the woods alone and you see the fox think of me." After Grama died, Jamie went to walk in the woods, she sang the special song that she had had been given by Grama Bowman. As Jamie sang she saw the fox, sitting and listening to her song. Jamie knew that she would never be alone.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Fox Song is based on a special relationship that Bruchac had with an old friend. The friend had given him a gift of a song. A song given as a gift by the Abenaki is kept close and personal. When Bruchac saw a fox in the woods he sang the song in memory of his friend. Bruchac uses Abenaki language in his story. Wokwes for the fox, Kokohas for the old owl, Madegwas for rabbit and alniminal for the wild berries. Ways of life significant to the Abenaki are shared in the story. Badogi is the mark of thunder. Grama gives a gift of tobacco to the Maskwa blanket tree. She shows Jamie how to strip the bark to the left, the way the sun moves around the tree. It is important to only take what they need so the tree won't die. The Abenaki believe that lightening doesn't strike a Birch tree and that it is a safe place in a storm.
The birch basket that is pictued in the illustrations is an accurate representation of an Abenaki birch basket. The illustrations are warm and show moments of happiness. The dark hair and golden skin reflect Jamie's native American heritage. The few items of Abenaki art are set in a modern day home. The clothing worn by Jamie and her Grama are typical of current styles worn by all people today. Nature is depicted in an inviting way with sunshine and color. The paintings by Paul Morin are attractive and full of life and soul. The book Fox Song expresses the author's empathy with the loss of a loved one.
Fox Song is recommended for ages 4-8 but an enjoyable story for all ages.
REVIEWS
Publishers Weekly In this tale of the sweet and vital bond between Native American great-grandparents and children, Bruchac, a well-known storyteller with Abenaki roots, offers a glimpse into traditional ways through the experience of Jamie, an Abenaki girl who lives near Vermont's Winooski river. One morning, Jamie resists waking and clings to fitful dreams in which she is reunited with her dead great-grandmother. Bruchac's clever device unifies various memories of Grama Bowman: she has taught Jamie to collect berries and to care for the patch ("burn off the dead bushes each year so that new ones will be green"), to peel bark from birch trees to fashion baskets, to follow wildlife signs in the winter woods, to sip maple sap. Primary to this story is the poignancy of lessons whose meanings ripen only with time. The aging woman lovingly and unobtrusively prepares her great-granddaughter for their inevitable separation, telling Jamie that when she sees the fox she will think of Grama Bowman. A delicate secondary theme is the unusual parental sympathy for Jamie's lazy morning--her mother and father understand the healing power of dreams. Through an appropriately autumnal palette, Morin's oil paintings on canvas echo the texture of Abenaki artifacts: birch bark and sticks, leather, carved bone, drying leaves. Ages 4-up. Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
School Library Journal
Grade 2-4-Jamie, grieving over the death of her great-grandmother, remembers and describes some of the special times they shared. Grama Bowman, an Abenaki, told her stories and taught her about "'our old Indian way.'" Memories of gathering berries, birch bark for baskets, or sap for maple sugar, activities that brought them together and close to nature are related. She recalls seeing the tracks of a fox and her grama telling her, "'When you are out here and I am not with you, you keep your eyes open. You might see her and when you do, you will think of me.'" The elderly woman's wise words and an Abenaki song of greeting help the girl cope with her loss. When Jamie sings the song in the woods, she sees a fox and knows that she will "...never be alone." Morin's oil paintings are both realistic and textured. The characters' faces are depicted lovingly but without idealism. The palette is rich and warm, in mostly autumnal tones, but with spring and winter accents. Strong artwork and multiple themes compensate for the rather pat ending.Patricia Dooley, formerly at University of Washington, SeattleCopyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
CONNECTIONS
Crazy Horse's Vision (Paperback) by Joseph Bruchac (Narrator), S. D. Nelson (Illustrator), Curtis Zunigha. Live Oak Media; Pap/Cas edition (January 30, 2007) ISBN-10: 1591124514 ISBN-13: 978-1591124511
* Ask the children if they have ever seen a fox. Let them share stories of special times with their grandparents.
reviews accessed from http://www.amazon.com
Bruchac, Joseph. 1993. FOX SONG. Putnam Juvenile. New York
ISBN-10: 0698115619 ISBN-13: 978-0698115613
SUMMARY
Grama Bowman was over ninety and Jamie's great grandma. They were very close and it has been hard for Jamie since Grama Bowman died. They had all lived together for the last six years by the Winooski River. It was the family way to take care of each other. Jamie and her Grama are Abenaki. Jamie's father was French but Grama had said they were good people and "quick to learn, and we were ready to teach them. I think that is why we kept on marrying them all these years." Grama had taught Jamie to pick wild berries and to make birch bark baskets. Grama Bowman had made Jamie laugh. They would walk into the woods and sip maple sap from the bucket. While in the woods, Grama tells Jamie, "when you are out here and I am not with you, you keep your eyes open. You might see her (the fox) and when you do, you will think of me." When Jamie walks in the woods now, she feels her Grama beside her. Grama had talked of the leaves and how they liked to dance. The leaves reminded Grama of her old people and made her remember that they are still with her. She taught Jamie a special song that would help Jamie if she was feeling alone. Grama had prepared Jamie, "when you are in the woods alone and you see the fox think of me." After Grama died, Jamie went to walk in the woods, she sang the special song that she had had been given by Grama Bowman. As Jamie sang she saw the fox, sitting and listening to her song. Jamie knew that she would never be alone.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Fox Song is based on a special relationship that Bruchac had with an old friend. The friend had given him a gift of a song. A song given as a gift by the Abenaki is kept close and personal. When Bruchac saw a fox in the woods he sang the song in memory of his friend. Bruchac uses Abenaki language in his story. Wokwes for the fox, Kokohas for the old owl, Madegwas for rabbit and alniminal for the wild berries. Ways of life significant to the Abenaki are shared in the story. Badogi is the mark of thunder. Grama gives a gift of tobacco to the Maskwa blanket tree. She shows Jamie how to strip the bark to the left, the way the sun moves around the tree. It is important to only take what they need so the tree won't die. The Abenaki believe that lightening doesn't strike a Birch tree and that it is a safe place in a storm.
The birch basket that is pictued in the illustrations is an accurate representation of an Abenaki birch basket. The illustrations are warm and show moments of happiness. The dark hair and golden skin reflect Jamie's native American heritage. The few items of Abenaki art are set in a modern day home. The clothing worn by Jamie and her Grama are typical of current styles worn by all people today. Nature is depicted in an inviting way with sunshine and color. The paintings by Paul Morin are attractive and full of life and soul. The book Fox Song expresses the author's empathy with the loss of a loved one.
Fox Song is recommended for ages 4-8 but an enjoyable story for all ages.
REVIEWS
Publishers Weekly In this tale of the sweet and vital bond between Native American great-grandparents and children, Bruchac, a well-known storyteller with Abenaki roots, offers a glimpse into traditional ways through the experience of Jamie, an Abenaki girl who lives near Vermont's Winooski river. One morning, Jamie resists waking and clings to fitful dreams in which she is reunited with her dead great-grandmother. Bruchac's clever device unifies various memories of Grama Bowman: she has taught Jamie to collect berries and to care for the patch ("burn off the dead bushes each year so that new ones will be green"), to peel bark from birch trees to fashion baskets, to follow wildlife signs in the winter woods, to sip maple sap. Primary to this story is the poignancy of lessons whose meanings ripen only with time. The aging woman lovingly and unobtrusively prepares her great-granddaughter for their inevitable separation, telling Jamie that when she sees the fox she will think of Grama Bowman. A delicate secondary theme is the unusual parental sympathy for Jamie's lazy morning--her mother and father understand the healing power of dreams. Through an appropriately autumnal palette, Morin's oil paintings on canvas echo the texture of Abenaki artifacts: birch bark and sticks, leather, carved bone, drying leaves. Ages 4-up. Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
School Library Journal
Grade 2-4-Jamie, grieving over the death of her great-grandmother, remembers and describes some of the special times they shared. Grama Bowman, an Abenaki, told her stories and taught her about "'our old Indian way.'" Memories of gathering berries, birch bark for baskets, or sap for maple sugar, activities that brought them together and close to nature are related. She recalls seeing the tracks of a fox and her grama telling her, "'When you are out here and I am not with you, you keep your eyes open. You might see her and when you do, you will think of me.'" The elderly woman's wise words and an Abenaki song of greeting help the girl cope with her loss. When Jamie sings the song in the woods, she sees a fox and knows that she will "...never be alone." Morin's oil paintings are both realistic and textured. The characters' faces are depicted lovingly but without idealism. The palette is rich and warm, in mostly autumnal tones, but with spring and winter accents. Strong artwork and multiple themes compensate for the rather pat ending.Patricia Dooley, formerly at University of Washington, SeattleCopyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
CONNECTIONS
Crazy Horse's Vision (Paperback) by Joseph Bruchac (Narrator), S. D. Nelson (Illustrator), Curtis Zunigha. Live Oak Media; Pap/Cas edition (January 30, 2007) ISBN-10: 1591124514 ISBN-13: 978-1591124511
* Ask the children if they have ever seen a fox. Let them share stories of special times with their grandparents.
reviews accessed from http://www.amazon.com
THE RANGE ETERNAL by Louise Erdrich
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Erdrich, Louise. 2002. THE RANGE ETERNAL. illustrated by Steve Johnson and Lou Fancher. Hyperion: New York ISBN-10: 0786802200 ISBN-13: 978-0786802203
SUMMARY
An Ojbwa family lives in a cabin with mica windows in the Turtle Mountains in South Dakota. Mother cooks soup on the Range Eternal. It is an old wood cook stove that is that heats the home as part of it's duties. She learned to write her letters from the words on the front of the Eternal Range stove. With charcoal from the stove she learned to write on the margins of her father's newspaper. She slept in a cot near the stove with a warm stone from the fire wrapped in a cloth at her feet.
Electricity came to the cabin while she was a child. The years have brought electric lights instead of kerosene lamps. The Range Eternal was taken and hauled away. It was replaced with a new electric stove. In the summer the Range Eternal wasn't missed as it would heat the house when bread was baked. In the winter the hot flames and warm potatoes in your pockets were missed. The visions in the flames were missed the most.
Grown, with a family of her own. She still misses the memories of the Range Eternal. She finds a blue Eternal Range wood stove in a store window and makes it a part of her home. The flames bring back the memories of childhood when she envisioned the animals running on the plain. She shares her vision of shadows and flames with her family in their city home.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS
The illustrations draw you in to the story and life on the South Dakota plains. The warm colors are reflected in the visions in the flames. The cool colors make the cold a reality. You can almost feel the warm potatoes in your pockets. The characters are welcoming and loving in their representation. A close family and sense of caring is reflected in the illustrations.
The cultural markers used in the story are tied to stories of the past. Windigo the ice monster with wind claws and ice teeth is an Ojbwa story that frightens children. Without the warmth of the Range Eternal, Winingo can get closer. The child sees visions in the flames they are memories of old Ojbwa tales that she has heard growing up. The play on words tie the old stories of the animals that are plentiful on the range to the vision seen in the Range Eternal in the flames. The young girl in the story is the author telling of her memory of a simple life growing up in South Dakota. She is a member of the Turtle Mountain Band of Ojbwa. As a child she is comforted by the dancing flames in the old cook stove. The clothing is generic and fits to the time of the story. Electricity coming to the cabin may show the isolation living in a remote area of the country. The story is recommended for 4 - 8 years but will also be enjoyed by adults that understand the pull of childhood memories.
REVIEWS
Publishers Weekly
Erdrich (The Birchbark House) skillfully weaves family memories into a poignant and lyrical story of home and hearth. The symbolism may be more moving to adults, but the theme of family and preservation will resonate with children. A young mother relates how when she was a girl in the Turtle Mountains, a wood-burning, enameled stove ("The Range Eternal" emblazoned on the front) provided the family with good soup, warmth and protection. As she looks through the stove's window, the girl sees in its flames "pictures of long ago" that conjure up a range of another kind ("I saw the range of the buffalo... the wolf range and fox range.... I saw the Range Eternal." Johnson and Francher (New York's Bravest) suffuse their breathtaking paintings with light-buffalo and deer gallop in golden clouds across the landscape; in a later painting, the steam from a pot of soup curls through the afternoon sun as the young mother longs for a "center of true warmth" like that of her childhood. When she finds a stove just like her family's in an antique shop, she brings it home and teaches her son "to enter the pictures... to see... the living range restored." Erdrich skillfully works in homely details, crafting language both musical and evocative (the girl is "tucked into the stillness" on a winter night; the stove is the "warm heart of the house"). Sumptuous paintings of the plains and cozy domestic scenes combine with graceful language to describe the rituals that keep family and community together. Ages 4-7.Copyright 2002 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From School Library Journal
Kindergarten-Grade 4-In this evocative glimpse into the past, a narrator recalls the blue enamel stove of her childhood home in the mountains of North Dakota. Her mother cooks with one hand while feeding the fire with the other. A girl thaws herself by the stove after chores. Stones warmed in the stove keep feet cozy on winter nights; hot potatoes keep hands from freezing on winter walks to school. The stove offers more than heat. It provides light and comfort against night fears and casts shadows on the wall that turn into pictures of the plains long ago, thick with grazing buffalo. The raised lettering on the stove, The Range Eternal, provides an early writing lesson. Much is lost the year electricity comes down the road, and the enamel range is traded for an electric one. Years later, the nostalgic young woman finds The Range Eternal in an antique store and is able to bring her memories to life for her son and her husband. Dreamy illustrations in muted colors float across the pages with the texture of steam, wind, and shadows forming connections between past and present. This is a peaceful story of imagination, memories, and the ties among generations.Susan Oliver, Tampa-Hillsborough Public Library System, FLCopyright 2002 Reed Business Information, Inc.
CONNECTIONS
*Crazy Horse's Vision. 2000. by Joseph Bruchac. S. D. Nelson Illustrator, Curtis Zunigha. Lee and Low Books Inc; New York. ISBN-10: 1591124514 ISBN-13: 978-1591124511
Draw pictures or write stories about things that make you feel warm and comfortable.
Erdrich, Louise. 2002. THE RANGE ETERNAL. illustrated by Steve Johnson and Lou Fancher. Hyperion: New York ISBN-10: 0786802200 ISBN-13: 978-0786802203
SUMMARY
An Ojbwa family lives in a cabin with mica windows in the Turtle Mountains in South Dakota. Mother cooks soup on the Range Eternal. It is an old wood cook stove that is that heats the home as part of it's duties. She learned to write her letters from the words on the front of the Eternal Range stove. With charcoal from the stove she learned to write on the margins of her father's newspaper. She slept in a cot near the stove with a warm stone from the fire wrapped in a cloth at her feet.
Electricity came to the cabin while she was a child. The years have brought electric lights instead of kerosene lamps. The Range Eternal was taken and hauled away. It was replaced with a new electric stove. In the summer the Range Eternal wasn't missed as it would heat the house when bread was baked. In the winter the hot flames and warm potatoes in your pockets were missed. The visions in the flames were missed the most.
Grown, with a family of her own. She still misses the memories of the Range Eternal. She finds a blue Eternal Range wood stove in a store window and makes it a part of her home. The flames bring back the memories of childhood when she envisioned the animals running on the plain. She shares her vision of shadows and flames with her family in their city home.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS
The illustrations draw you in to the story and life on the South Dakota plains. The warm colors are reflected in the visions in the flames. The cool colors make the cold a reality. You can almost feel the warm potatoes in your pockets. The characters are welcoming and loving in their representation. A close family and sense of caring is reflected in the illustrations.
The cultural markers used in the story are tied to stories of the past. Windigo the ice monster with wind claws and ice teeth is an Ojbwa story that frightens children. Without the warmth of the Range Eternal, Winingo can get closer. The child sees visions in the flames they are memories of old Ojbwa tales that she has heard growing up. The play on words tie the old stories of the animals that are plentiful on the range to the vision seen in the Range Eternal in the flames. The young girl in the story is the author telling of her memory of a simple life growing up in South Dakota. She is a member of the Turtle Mountain Band of Ojbwa. As a child she is comforted by the dancing flames in the old cook stove. The clothing is generic and fits to the time of the story. Electricity coming to the cabin may show the isolation living in a remote area of the country. The story is recommended for 4 - 8 years but will also be enjoyed by adults that understand the pull of childhood memories.
REVIEWS
Publishers Weekly
Erdrich (The Birchbark House) skillfully weaves family memories into a poignant and lyrical story of home and hearth. The symbolism may be more moving to adults, but the theme of family and preservation will resonate with children. A young mother relates how when she was a girl in the Turtle Mountains, a wood-burning, enameled stove ("The Range Eternal" emblazoned on the front) provided the family with good soup, warmth and protection. As she looks through the stove's window, the girl sees in its flames "pictures of long ago" that conjure up a range of another kind ("I saw the range of the buffalo... the wolf range and fox range.... I saw the Range Eternal." Johnson and Francher (New York's Bravest) suffuse their breathtaking paintings with light-buffalo and deer gallop in golden clouds across the landscape; in a later painting, the steam from a pot of soup curls through the afternoon sun as the young mother longs for a "center of true warmth" like that of her childhood. When she finds a stove just like her family's in an antique shop, she brings it home and teaches her son "to enter the pictures... to see... the living range restored." Erdrich skillfully works in homely details, crafting language both musical and evocative (the girl is "tucked into the stillness" on a winter night; the stove is the "warm heart of the house"). Sumptuous paintings of the plains and cozy domestic scenes combine with graceful language to describe the rituals that keep family and community together. Ages 4-7.Copyright 2002 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From School Library Journal
Kindergarten-Grade 4-In this evocative glimpse into the past, a narrator recalls the blue enamel stove of her childhood home in the mountains of North Dakota. Her mother cooks with one hand while feeding the fire with the other. A girl thaws herself by the stove after chores. Stones warmed in the stove keep feet cozy on winter nights; hot potatoes keep hands from freezing on winter walks to school. The stove offers more than heat. It provides light and comfort against night fears and casts shadows on the wall that turn into pictures of the plains long ago, thick with grazing buffalo. The raised lettering on the stove, The Range Eternal, provides an early writing lesson. Much is lost the year electricity comes down the road, and the enamel range is traded for an electric one. Years later, the nostalgic young woman finds The Range Eternal in an antique store and is able to bring her memories to life for her son and her husband. Dreamy illustrations in muted colors float across the pages with the texture of steam, wind, and shadows forming connections between past and present. This is a peaceful story of imagination, memories, and the ties among generations.Susan Oliver, Tampa-Hillsborough Public Library System, FLCopyright 2002 Reed Business Information, Inc.
CONNECTIONS
*Crazy Horse's Vision. 2000. by Joseph Bruchac. S. D. Nelson Illustrator, Curtis Zunigha. Lee and Low Books Inc; New York. ISBN-10: 1591124514 ISBN-13: 978-1591124511
Draw pictures or write stories about things that make you feel warm and comfortable.
INDIAN SHOES by Cynthia Leitich Smith
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Smith, Cynthia Leitich. 2002. INDIAN SHOES. Illustrator Jim Madsen. HarperCollins; 1st edition ISBN-10: 0060295317 ISBN-13: 978-0060295318
SUMMARY
A selection of short interrelated stories of Ray and his Grandpa, of Seminole-Cherokee decent. Ray lives with his Grandpa Halfmoon in Chicago. Grampa reminisces about family and old times in Oklahoma. In the first story, Ray negotiates the trade for a pair of moccasins for Grandpa Halfmoon. In the last story, Ray and Grandpa visit family in Oklahoma. Ray discovers the reason Grandpa, a world class fisherman isn't catching any fish. We learn that Ray's dad is missing from Ray's life, and the stories, because he had died. Grampa Halfmoon is spending more time remembering his son that has died than fishing.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS
The short stories are interesting although they lack a conclusion. The stories leave you wanting more. In the stories, Grandpa is reminiscent of old times in Oklahoma. "Every once in a great while, my Gramps used to wear moccasins, instead of his cowboy boots," said Gramps "He use to pitch to me and my cousins too, and Gramps usually struck us out..." Shows the generations that have changed from the old ways to modern ways of life. After the conclusion of the trade of moccasins for hightops, the librarian displays Ray's hightops in place of the moccasins. A sign that reads, "traded from Ray Halfmoon, Cherokee-Seminole Hightops. Not Indian made but Indian Worn, Guaranteed" is displayed with the hightops. The use of the term, Indian, in the sign shows that the librarian is an outsider. The sign represents a degree of understanding but has an overhanging impression of stereotyping.
The many subtle references, reinforces the fact that Native Americans wear the same type of clothing and live in the same type of houses as everyone else, is an idea that needs to be understood by children. The stories show the close relationship between Ray and his Grandfather.
The illustrations are good representations of Native American lifestyle in the current day. Electric lights and a microwave are shown in the illustrations. Modern day clothing styles are worn by the characters. Uncle Leonard uses a laptop computer. These are items in the stories that are meant to convey an accurate representation of current lifestyles of Native Americans. In the illustrations, Grampa wears a ponytail that could represent his heritage. Caring for animals and fishing are important segments in the stories that represent closeness to nature that could relate to their heritage. Ages 4-8
REVIEWS
Publishers Weekly
Ray Halfmoon, a Seminole-Cherokee boy living with his grandfather in Chicago, is at the center of Smith's (Rain Is Not My Indian Name) slim collection of six tales. Though the author affectingly portrays the strong bond between grandson and grandfather, the narrative bogs down with flowery or overwritten passages (e.g., "Ray's and Grampa's breath puffed cloudy as they trudged next door to the Wang home. In the driveway, Mrs. Wang's VW Bug waited to be freed from the snow like a triceratops skeleton embedded in rock"). Kids may have trouble sticking with this collection. Ages 7-10. Copyright 2002 Cahners Business Information, Inc.
School Library Journal
Grade 3-5-Smith adds her voice to the precious few authors portraying realistic contemporary life for Indian children. Although she tells little of his background, the author uses six vignette chapters to introduce Ray, an affable mixed-blood Cherokee-Seminole boy living in Chicago with his Grampa Halfmoon. With humor, compassion, and ingenuity, . There are no mystical nature spirits or cathartic history lessons, only the everyday challenges common to any contemporary kid, as experienced by an Indian boy who is firmly grounded in his own family's heritage. With its unadorned portrayal of urban Indian life, Shoes is a good book for any elementary-aged reluctant reader, and a necessity for indigenous children everywhere.Sean George, St. Charles Parish Library, Luling, LACopyright 2002 Cahners Business Information, Inc.
CONNECTIONS
*Other books by Cynthia Leitich Smith
Smith, Cynthia Leitich. 2001. Rain Is Not My Indian Name. co author Lori Earley. HarperCollins; New York. ISBN-10: 0688173977 ISBN-13: 978-0688173975
Smith, Cynthia Leitich. 2000. Jingle Dancer. Cornelius Van Wright (Illustrator), Ying-Hwa Hu (Author). HarperCollins ISBN-10: 068816241X ISBN-13: 978-0688162412
*Talk about fishing with students, asking about their experiences. Have they lost someone in their family? Do they have a special memory that they would like to share?
Smith, Cynthia Leitich. 2002. INDIAN SHOES. Illustrator Jim Madsen. HarperCollins; 1st edition ISBN-10: 0060295317 ISBN-13: 978-0060295318
SUMMARY
A selection of short interrelated stories of Ray and his Grandpa, of Seminole-Cherokee decent. Ray lives with his Grandpa Halfmoon in Chicago. Grampa reminisces about family and old times in Oklahoma. In the first story, Ray negotiates the trade for a pair of moccasins for Grandpa Halfmoon. In the last story, Ray and Grandpa visit family in Oklahoma. Ray discovers the reason Grandpa, a world class fisherman isn't catching any fish. We learn that Ray's dad is missing from Ray's life, and the stories, because he had died. Grampa Halfmoon is spending more time remembering his son that has died than fishing.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS
The short stories are interesting although they lack a conclusion. The stories leave you wanting more. In the stories, Grandpa is reminiscent of old times in Oklahoma. "Every once in a great while, my Gramps used to wear moccasins, instead of his cowboy boots," said Gramps "He use to pitch to me and my cousins too, and Gramps usually struck us out..." Shows the generations that have changed from the old ways to modern ways of life. After the conclusion of the trade of moccasins for hightops, the librarian displays Ray's hightops in place of the moccasins. A sign that reads, "traded from Ray Halfmoon, Cherokee-Seminole Hightops. Not Indian made but Indian Worn, Guaranteed" is displayed with the hightops. The use of the term, Indian, in the sign shows that the librarian is an outsider. The sign represents a degree of understanding but has an overhanging impression of stereotyping.
The many subtle references, reinforces the fact that Native Americans wear the same type of clothing and live in the same type of houses as everyone else, is an idea that needs to be understood by children. The stories show the close relationship between Ray and his Grandfather.
The illustrations are good representations of Native American lifestyle in the current day. Electric lights and a microwave are shown in the illustrations. Modern day clothing styles are worn by the characters. Uncle Leonard uses a laptop computer. These are items in the stories that are meant to convey an accurate representation of current lifestyles of Native Americans. In the illustrations, Grampa wears a ponytail that could represent his heritage. Caring for animals and fishing are important segments in the stories that represent closeness to nature that could relate to their heritage. Ages 4-8
REVIEWS
Publishers Weekly
Ray Halfmoon, a Seminole-Cherokee boy living with his grandfather in Chicago, is at the center of Smith's (Rain Is Not My Indian Name) slim collection of six tales. Though the author affectingly portrays the strong bond between grandson and grandfather, the narrative bogs down with flowery or overwritten passages (e.g., "Ray's and Grampa's breath puffed cloudy as they trudged next door to the Wang home. In the driveway, Mrs. Wang's VW Bug waited to be freed from the snow like a triceratops skeleton embedded in rock"). Kids may have trouble sticking with this collection. Ages 7-10. Copyright 2002 Cahners Business Information, Inc.
School Library Journal
Grade 3-5-Smith adds her voice to the precious few authors portraying realistic contemporary life for Indian children. Although she tells little of his background, the author uses six vignette chapters to introduce Ray, an affable mixed-blood Cherokee-Seminole boy living in Chicago with his Grampa Halfmoon. With humor, compassion, and ingenuity, . There are no mystical nature spirits or cathartic history lessons, only the everyday challenges common to any contemporary kid, as experienced by an Indian boy who is firmly grounded in his own family's heritage. With its unadorned portrayal of urban Indian life, Shoes is a good book for any elementary-aged reluctant reader, and a necessity for indigenous children everywhere.Sean George, St. Charles Parish Library, Luling, LACopyright 2002 Cahners Business Information, Inc.
CONNECTIONS
*Other books by Cynthia Leitich Smith
Smith, Cynthia Leitich. 2001. Rain Is Not My Indian Name. co author Lori Earley. HarperCollins; New York. ISBN-10: 0688173977 ISBN-13: 978-0688173975
Smith, Cynthia Leitich. 2000. Jingle Dancer. Cornelius Van Wright (Illustrator), Ying-Hwa Hu (Author). HarperCollins ISBN-10: 068816241X ISBN-13: 978-0688162412
*Talk about fishing with students, asking about their experiences. Have they lost someone in their family? Do they have a special memory that they would like to share?
Friday, July 6, 2007
PACIFIC CROSSING
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Soto, Gary. 1999. Pacific Crossing. Harcourt Paperbacks; Reprint edition ISBN-10: 0152046968 ISBN-13: 978-0152046965
PLOT SUMMARY
Lincoln Mendoza and his friend Tony live in San Francisco California. Lincoln is studying Kempo, a Japanese martial art. The junior high boys are asked to be foreign exchange students in Japan for the summer. Lincoln will continue his training of Kempo while in Japan. The families in Japan welcome Lincoln and Tony. They have sons the same age as Lincoln and Tony. The boys become close friends with their host families. Mitsuo is a new brother, they plan to be friends forever and visit in San Francisco.
Lincoln and Mitsuo take a trip to Tokyo on the train on a scavenger hunt arranged by Mr.Ono. Mitsuo's father works for the railroad and sends them off in the mail car. In the city the boys find the hidden paper and discover Mr. Ono's joke.
Lincoln and Mitsuo go camping with Mr. Ono. On the trip, a poisonous spider bites Mr.Ono. Lincoln, only fourteen, drives him to the hospital. The car gets a dented fender and a cracked windshield but the adventure is successful and the boys work to repair the car.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Soto is familiar with the language of boys today. He uses mannerisms of speech that would be recognizable to young readers. Spanish and Japanese words in the book give a cultural feel to the story. Soto is not repetitive in his translation of the Spanish and Japanese words used throughout the book more than necessary. His choice of words doesn't distract from the story. It gives authenticity to the represented cultures. A glossary follows the story for definitions.
The characters share their love of Mexican food with the Japanese families. The meal that the boys cook is not as successful as the growing friendship. Food is an intigral part of the story and the sharing of cultures.
The length of the book is manageable for young readers. The story moves along quickly with an interesting plot.
On several occasions the boys run from adults and shake their fists in defiance. The actions are extreme and unnecessary for two young boys. Lincoln and Mitsuo would be expected to show a more respectful attitude. It is debatable if the boys' actions are true representations of character.
REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
School Library Journal Grade 6-9-- Mexican-Americans Lincoln and Tony, both 14, are chosen as exchange students for a summer in Japan. They reside with different families and the focus is on Lincoln, with Tony appearing only when a sounding board is needed. The boys prepare a botched Mexican meal for their hosts, and Lincoln saves his host family's father's life by driving, unlicensed, to a hospital. Other than these episodes, little happens in what is essentially a novel of manners contrasting cultural mores. The writing is very good, often elegant, and the point of view is in keeping with a 14-year-old. The text contains many words and phrases in Spanish and Japanese, set off in italics and defined in separate glossaries. Unfortunately, this becomes distracting and often vexing, slowing down an already uneventful narrative. Readers will wonder just what is the lingua franca between the boys and their hosts. All of the Japanese exhibit a complete mastery of English, a nearly universal proficiency that is never explained. Though not without interest, the story is too languid and linguistically confusing to hold the attention of this age group. --John Philbrook, San Francisco Pub. Lib.Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.
CONNECTIONS
Other books by Gary Soto
Petty Crimes
Publisher: Harcourt Paperbacks; Reprint edition (May 1, 2006) Language: English ISBN-10: 0152054375 ISBN-13: 978-0152054373 9-12
Taking Sides
Publisher: Harcourt Children's Books; 1 edition (September 15, 1991) Language: English ISBN-10: 0152840761 ISBN-13: 978-0152840761 9-12
Soto, Gary. 1999. Pacific Crossing. Harcourt Paperbacks; Reprint edition ISBN-10: 0152046968 ISBN-13: 978-0152046965
PLOT SUMMARY
Lincoln Mendoza and his friend Tony live in San Francisco California. Lincoln is studying Kempo, a Japanese martial art. The junior high boys are asked to be foreign exchange students in Japan for the summer. Lincoln will continue his training of Kempo while in Japan. The families in Japan welcome Lincoln and Tony. They have sons the same age as Lincoln and Tony. The boys become close friends with their host families. Mitsuo is a new brother, they plan to be friends forever and visit in San Francisco.
Lincoln and Mitsuo take a trip to Tokyo on the train on a scavenger hunt arranged by Mr.Ono. Mitsuo's father works for the railroad and sends them off in the mail car. In the city the boys find the hidden paper and discover Mr. Ono's joke.
Lincoln and Mitsuo go camping with Mr. Ono. On the trip, a poisonous spider bites Mr.Ono. Lincoln, only fourteen, drives him to the hospital. The car gets a dented fender and a cracked windshield but the adventure is successful and the boys work to repair the car.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Soto is familiar with the language of boys today. He uses mannerisms of speech that would be recognizable to young readers. Spanish and Japanese words in the book give a cultural feel to the story. Soto is not repetitive in his translation of the Spanish and Japanese words used throughout the book more than necessary. His choice of words doesn't distract from the story. It gives authenticity to the represented cultures. A glossary follows the story for definitions.
The characters share their love of Mexican food with the Japanese families. The meal that the boys cook is not as successful as the growing friendship. Food is an intigral part of the story and the sharing of cultures.
The length of the book is manageable for young readers. The story moves along quickly with an interesting plot.
On several occasions the boys run from adults and shake their fists in defiance. The actions are extreme and unnecessary for two young boys. Lincoln and Mitsuo would be expected to show a more respectful attitude. It is debatable if the boys' actions are true representations of character.
REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
School Library Journal Grade 6-9-- Mexican-Americans Lincoln and Tony, both 14, are chosen as exchange students for a summer in Japan. They reside with different families and the focus is on Lincoln, with Tony appearing only when a sounding board is needed. The boys prepare a botched Mexican meal for their hosts, and Lincoln saves his host family's father's life by driving, unlicensed, to a hospital. Other than these episodes, little happens in what is essentially a novel of manners contrasting cultural mores. The writing is very good, often elegant, and the point of view is in keeping with a 14-year-old. The text contains many words and phrases in Spanish and Japanese, set off in italics and defined in separate glossaries. Unfortunately, this becomes distracting and often vexing, slowing down an already uneventful narrative. Readers will wonder just what is the lingua franca between the boys and their hosts. All of the Japanese exhibit a complete mastery of English, a nearly universal proficiency that is never explained. Though not without interest, the story is too languid and linguistically confusing to hold the attention of this age group. --John Philbrook, San Francisco Pub. Lib.Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.
CONNECTIONS
Other books by Gary Soto
Petty Crimes
Publisher: Harcourt Paperbacks; Reprint edition (May 1, 2006) Language: English ISBN-10: 0152054375 ISBN-13: 978-0152054373 9-12
Taking Sides
Publisher: Harcourt Children's Books; 1 edition (September 15, 1991) Language: English ISBN-10: 0152840761 ISBN-13: 978-0152840761 9-12
TRINO'S TIME
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Bertrand, Diane Gonzales. 2001. Trino's Time. Arte Publico Press. ISBN-10: 1558853162 ISBN-13: 978-1558853164
PLOT SUMMARY
Trino is a young Hispanic boy that takes the hardships of life in stride. He helps his single mother with the care of his three brothers. His mother lost her job and it is difficult to pay for the things they need. Trino's family has been eating a lot of eggs and tortilla's. The earnings from his labor at a local store help to buy food for his family. Mr.Epifano hired Trino to help out at his store for two dollars and the old perishables and dented cans. Trino's friends had beaten Mr. Epifano in a robbery. Mr. Epifano was a difficult man but Trino feels bad that he had been beaten.
Memories of his best friend's death during a robbery haunt Trino. He sees the value in making better choices for himself. He is inspired to do better in school by the coach and his new friends. Trino is proud of the Mexican man Navarro in his school project. Navarro had signed the Texas Declaration of Independence with the memorable words, "Time will speak for everything." Trino researches his project at the college library. He encourages his mom to seek a job cleaning at the college despite her insecurities of being a high school drop out.
When a tree falls on the roof, destroying their mobile home Trino rescues his mother. Trino is recognized as a hero when he is interviewed on the news. Trino 's determination comes from his goal to help his family.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Trino's Time is an interesting book for 10 and up. Trino is mature for his years and recognizes that hard work and determination are needed to get by in life. The characters are identifiable for young people in their quest to become adults. Trino discovers that good friends can be found when you least expect it. Trino chooses to follow his own path rather than the path of his old friends that committed a crime. The difficulties experienced by Trino's family are believable and not sensationalized. The struggle for survival in poor Hispanic single parent families is an accepted reality. The story gives hope for a better future for Trino as he sees the value of education.
REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
School Library Journal-Grade 6-9-The 13-year-old introduced in Trino's Choice (Pi-ata, 1999) is having a difficult life at home and at school. Recently, he has been trying to come to grips with the death of his best friend during an attempted robbery at a car wash-a robbery for which Trino barely missed being implicated. He and his three younger brothers live in a trailer park in Texas with their poorly educated mother who does her best but barely manages to support them. When she loses her job, the family struggles just to get food and clothing. Luckily, Trino is able to find some work and his mother's new boyfriend takes the family under his wing. At the same time, a group of teens at school shows Trino the true meaning of friendship, and he even embarks on his first romance. As he begins to trust in his own abilities, he discovers that he really is smart, and that school can be fun and challenging, and can teach him some important things about his heritage. Through his example, his mother finds the courage to get a job for which she had been embarrassed to apply. When a terrible storm leaves the family homeless, Trino finally gets the chance to prove he has changed for the better. The story has high interest and a quick pace with realistic dialogue including suitably placed Spanish words and phrases. Characters are likable and carefully drawn. Those readers who were frustrated with the open-ended conclusion of the earlier title will find satisfaction in this well-written sequel.Diane P. Tuccillo, Mesa Public Library, AZ Copyright 2001 Reed Business Information, Inc. BooklistGr. 6-12. In Bertrand's solid follow-up to the award-winning Trino's Choice (1999), 15-year-old Trino moves past the haunting memory of his friend's murder and takes on more responsibility in his family. To contribute to the small household income, Trino accepts a job in a grocery store, taking time from friends and schoolwork. When he's assigned a biographical report on Jose Antonio Navarro, Trino finds a hero who helps him aspire to more than just survival. The drama is seldom intense in the story, but the emotions are sincere, and selfless Trino is an appealing protagonist. Family ties are strong, and the teen issues, especially Trino's struggle between wanting to do for himself and sacrificing for his family, are entirely believable. Surrounded by a volatile mother, her well-meaning but less-than-stellar boyfriend, and young siblings, Trino is the anchor that keeps his family, and this novel, firmly planted in reality. Roger LeslieCopyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved
CONNECTIONS
TRINO"S CHOICE. Pinata Books; 1st edition (1999) Language: English ISBN-10: 1558852689 ISBN-13: 978-1558852686
Bertrand, Diane Gonzales. 2001. Trino's Time. Arte Publico Press. ISBN-10: 1558853162 ISBN-13: 978-1558853164
PLOT SUMMARY
Trino is a young Hispanic boy that takes the hardships of life in stride. He helps his single mother with the care of his three brothers. His mother lost her job and it is difficult to pay for the things they need. Trino's family has been eating a lot of eggs and tortilla's. The earnings from his labor at a local store help to buy food for his family. Mr.Epifano hired Trino to help out at his store for two dollars and the old perishables and dented cans. Trino's friends had beaten Mr. Epifano in a robbery. Mr. Epifano was a difficult man but Trino feels bad that he had been beaten.
Memories of his best friend's death during a robbery haunt Trino. He sees the value in making better choices for himself. He is inspired to do better in school by the coach and his new friends. Trino is proud of the Mexican man Navarro in his school project. Navarro had signed the Texas Declaration of Independence with the memorable words, "Time will speak for everything." Trino researches his project at the college library. He encourages his mom to seek a job cleaning at the college despite her insecurities of being a high school drop out.
When a tree falls on the roof, destroying their mobile home Trino rescues his mother. Trino is recognized as a hero when he is interviewed on the news. Trino 's determination comes from his goal to help his family.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Trino's Time is an interesting book for 10 and up. Trino is mature for his years and recognizes that hard work and determination are needed to get by in life. The characters are identifiable for young people in their quest to become adults. Trino discovers that good friends can be found when you least expect it. Trino chooses to follow his own path rather than the path of his old friends that committed a crime. The difficulties experienced by Trino's family are believable and not sensationalized. The struggle for survival in poor Hispanic single parent families is an accepted reality. The story gives hope for a better future for Trino as he sees the value of education.
REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
School Library Journal-Grade 6-9-The 13-year-old introduced in Trino's Choice (Pi-ata, 1999) is having a difficult life at home and at school. Recently, he has been trying to come to grips with the death of his best friend during an attempted robbery at a car wash-a robbery for which Trino barely missed being implicated. He and his three younger brothers live in a trailer park in Texas with their poorly educated mother who does her best but barely manages to support them. When she loses her job, the family struggles just to get food and clothing. Luckily, Trino is able to find some work and his mother's new boyfriend takes the family under his wing. At the same time, a group of teens at school shows Trino the true meaning of friendship, and he even embarks on his first romance. As he begins to trust in his own abilities, he discovers that he really is smart, and that school can be fun and challenging, and can teach him some important things about his heritage. Through his example, his mother finds the courage to get a job for which she had been embarrassed to apply. When a terrible storm leaves the family homeless, Trino finally gets the chance to prove he has changed for the better. The story has high interest and a quick pace with realistic dialogue including suitably placed Spanish words and phrases. Characters are likable and carefully drawn. Those readers who were frustrated with the open-ended conclusion of the earlier title will find satisfaction in this well-written sequel.Diane P. Tuccillo, Mesa Public Library, AZ Copyright 2001 Reed Business Information, Inc. BooklistGr. 6-12. In Bertrand's solid follow-up to the award-winning Trino's Choice (1999), 15-year-old Trino moves past the haunting memory of his friend's murder and takes on more responsibility in his family. To contribute to the small household income, Trino accepts a job in a grocery store, taking time from friends and schoolwork. When he's assigned a biographical report on Jose Antonio Navarro, Trino finds a hero who helps him aspire to more than just survival. The drama is seldom intense in the story, but the emotions are sincere, and selfless Trino is an appealing protagonist. Family ties are strong, and the teen issues, especially Trino's struggle between wanting to do for himself and sacrificing for his family, are entirely believable. Surrounded by a volatile mother, her well-meaning but less-than-stellar boyfriend, and young siblings, Trino is the anchor that keeps his family, and this novel, firmly planted in reality. Roger LeslieCopyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved
CONNECTIONS
TRINO"S CHOICE. Pinata Books; 1st edition (1999) Language: English ISBN-10: 1558852689 ISBN-13: 978-1558852686
Thursday, July 5, 2007
TOMAS AND THE LIBRARY LADY
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Mora, Pat. 2000. Tomas and the Library Lady. Raul Colon (Illustrator) Dragonfly Books; 1st Dragonfly Books Ed. 10: 0375803491 ISBN-13: 978-0375803499
PLOT SUMMARY
The story of Tomas is based on the life of Tomas Rivera, a successful Mexican American writer and educator. As a boy Tomas loved stories told to him by his Papa Grande. The Rivera family were migrant workers that traveled between Iowa and Texas to help with the harvest. In Iowa, Papa Grande sent Tomas to the library to find more stories. The library lady invited Tomas in for a drink of water. She brought him books to read about dinosaurs and tigers and anything that interested Tomas. Tomas would read to his family many of the stories from his books. Tomas taught his new friend, the librarian words in Spanish. Words like libro for book and pajaro for bird. Tomas and his family would visit the dump to find metal to sell. Tomas would find books that other people had discarded that he would read. When the harvest was finished, Tomas and his family had to head back to Texas. Tomas brought a 'pan dulce,' a traditional Mexican sweet bread, made by his mother as a gift for the library lady. The library lady gave Tomas a book to take home to Texas.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS
The biography of Tomas Rivera, by Pat Mora gives children a realistic look at life for a Mexican American migrant family. The story encourages learning and the enjoyment of reading. The inside cover of the book has suggestions for activities to enhance the story. Suggested questions are given on the inside cover to inspire discussion. Matching words in Spanish and English are provided as an activity. The scratchboard drawings are interesting with a style reminiscent of earlier times in the 1940's. The story of Tomas is for 4-8 year olds
REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
Booklist -
Ages 4-8. From the immigrant slums of New York City to the fields of California, it's an elemental American experience: the uprooted child who finds a home in the library. Mora's story is based on a true incident in the life of the famous writer Tomas Rivera, the son of migrant workers who became an education leader and university president. Far from his home in Texas, the small boy is working with his family picking corn in Iowa. Inspired by the Spanish stories his grandfather (Papa Grande) tells, Tomas goes to the library to find more stories. The librarian welcomes him into the cool, quiet reading room and gives him books in English that he reads to himself and to his family. He teaches her some Spanish words. Then, as in so many migrant stories, the boy must leave the home he has found. He has a new, sad word for her, "adios. It means goodbye." Colon's beautiful scratchboard illustrations, in his textured, glowingly colored, rhythmic style, capture the warmth and the dreams that the boy finds in the world of books. The pictures are upbeat; little stress is shown; even in the fields, the kids could be playing kick ball or listening to stories. Perhaps the most moving picture is that of the child outside the library door, his face pressed against the pane. In contrast is the peaceful space he finds inside, where he is free to imagine dinosaurs and wild adventure. Hazel Rochman --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.
Kirkus Reviews-
A charming, true story about the encounter between the boy who would become chancellor at the University of California at Riverside and a librarian in Iowa. Tomas Rivera, child of migrant laborers, picks crops in Iowa in the summer and Texas in the winter, traveling from place to place in a worn old car. When he is not helping in the fields, Tom s likes to hear Papa Grande's stories, which he knows by heart. Papa Grande sends him to the library downtown for new stories, but Tom s finds the building intimidating. The librarian welcomes him, inviting him in for a cool drink of water and a book. Tom s reads until the library closes, and leaves with books checked out on the librarian's own card. For the rest of the summer, he shares books and stories with his family, and teaches the librarian some Spanish. At the end of the season, there are big hugs and a gift exchange: sweet bread from Tomas's mother and a shiny new book from the librarian to keep. Colon's dreamy illustrations capture the brief friendship and its life-altering effects in soft earth tones, using round sculptured shapes that often depict the boy right in the middle of whatever story realm he's entered. (Picture book. 7-10) -- Copyright ©1997, Kirkus Associates, LP. All rights reserved. --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.
CONNECTIONS
Dona Flor: A Tall Tale About a Giant Woman with a Great Big Heart (Pura Belpre Medal Book Illustrator (Awards)) (Hardcover) by Pat Mora (Author), Raul Colon (Illustrator)
g level: Ages 4-8Hardcover: 40 pages Publisher: Knopf Books for Young Readers (October 11, 2005) Language: English ISBN-10: 0375823379 ISBN-13: 978-0375823374
Pablo's Tree (Hardcover) by Pat Mora (Author), Cecily Lang (Illustrator)
Reading level: Ages 4-8Hardcover: 32 pages Publisher: Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing; Library Binding edition (September 1, 1994) Language: English ISBN-10: 0027674010 ISBN-13: 978-0027674019
*Visit the library
Mora, Pat. 2000. Tomas and the Library Lady. Raul Colon (Illustrator) Dragonfly Books; 1st Dragonfly Books Ed. 10: 0375803491 ISBN-13: 978-0375803499
PLOT SUMMARY
The story of Tomas is based on the life of Tomas Rivera, a successful Mexican American writer and educator. As a boy Tomas loved stories told to him by his Papa Grande. The Rivera family were migrant workers that traveled between Iowa and Texas to help with the harvest. In Iowa, Papa Grande sent Tomas to the library to find more stories. The library lady invited Tomas in for a drink of water. She brought him books to read about dinosaurs and tigers and anything that interested Tomas. Tomas would read to his family many of the stories from his books. Tomas taught his new friend, the librarian words in Spanish. Words like libro for book and pajaro for bird. Tomas and his family would visit the dump to find metal to sell. Tomas would find books that other people had discarded that he would read. When the harvest was finished, Tomas and his family had to head back to Texas. Tomas brought a 'pan dulce,' a traditional Mexican sweet bread, made by his mother as a gift for the library lady. The library lady gave Tomas a book to take home to Texas.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS
The biography of Tomas Rivera, by Pat Mora gives children a realistic look at life for a Mexican American migrant family. The story encourages learning and the enjoyment of reading. The inside cover of the book has suggestions for activities to enhance the story. Suggested questions are given on the inside cover to inspire discussion. Matching words in Spanish and English are provided as an activity. The scratchboard drawings are interesting with a style reminiscent of earlier times in the 1940's. The story of Tomas is for 4-8 year olds
REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
Booklist -
Ages 4-8. From the immigrant slums of New York City to the fields of California, it's an elemental American experience: the uprooted child who finds a home in the library. Mora's story is based on a true incident in the life of the famous writer Tomas Rivera, the son of migrant workers who became an education leader and university president. Far from his home in Texas, the small boy is working with his family picking corn in Iowa. Inspired by the Spanish stories his grandfather (Papa Grande) tells, Tomas goes to the library to find more stories. The librarian welcomes him into the cool, quiet reading room and gives him books in English that he reads to himself and to his family. He teaches her some Spanish words. Then, as in so many migrant stories, the boy must leave the home he has found. He has a new, sad word for her, "adios. It means goodbye." Colon's beautiful scratchboard illustrations, in his textured, glowingly colored, rhythmic style, capture the warmth and the dreams that the boy finds in the world of books. The pictures are upbeat; little stress is shown; even in the fields, the kids could be playing kick ball or listening to stories. Perhaps the most moving picture is that of the child outside the library door, his face pressed against the pane. In contrast is the peaceful space he finds inside, where he is free to imagine dinosaurs and wild adventure. Hazel Rochman --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.
Kirkus Reviews-
A charming, true story about the encounter between the boy who would become chancellor at the University of California at Riverside and a librarian in Iowa. Tomas Rivera, child of migrant laborers, picks crops in Iowa in the summer and Texas in the winter, traveling from place to place in a worn old car. When he is not helping in the fields, Tom s likes to hear Papa Grande's stories, which he knows by heart. Papa Grande sends him to the library downtown for new stories, but Tom s finds the building intimidating. The librarian welcomes him, inviting him in for a cool drink of water and a book. Tom s reads until the library closes, and leaves with books checked out on the librarian's own card. For the rest of the summer, he shares books and stories with his family, and teaches the librarian some Spanish. At the end of the season, there are big hugs and a gift exchange: sweet bread from Tomas's mother and a shiny new book from the librarian to keep. Colon's dreamy illustrations capture the brief friendship and its life-altering effects in soft earth tones, using round sculptured shapes that often depict the boy right in the middle of whatever story realm he's entered. (Picture book. 7-10) -- Copyright ©1997, Kirkus Associates, LP. All rights reserved. --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.
CONNECTIONS
Dona Flor: A Tall Tale About a Giant Woman with a Great Big Heart (Pura Belpre Medal Book Illustrator (Awards)) (Hardcover) by Pat Mora (Author), Raul Colon (Illustrator)
g level: Ages 4-8Hardcover: 40 pages Publisher: Knopf Books for Young Readers (October 11, 2005) Language: English ISBN-10: 0375823379 ISBN-13: 978-0375823374
Pablo's Tree (Hardcover) by Pat Mora (Author), Cecily Lang (Illustrator)
Reading level: Ages 4-8Hardcover: 32 pages Publisher: Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing; Library Binding edition (September 1, 1994) Language: English ISBN-10: 0027674010 ISBN-13: 978-0027674019
*Visit the library
Sunday, June 24, 2007
BUD, NOT BUDDY
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Curtis, Christopher Paul. 2006. BUD, NOT BUDDY. James Avery (Narrator)
Audio CD Publisher: Listening Library (Audio); Unabridged edition ISBN-10: 0739331795 ISBN-13: 978-0739331798
Delacorte Books for Young Readers (September 7, 1999) ISBN-10: 0385323069 ISBN-13: 978-0385323062
PLOT
Young Bud has been an orphan for four years. He has lived in the home since he was six. Foster families haven't worked out. The most recent, Amos family had locked him in a shed with hornets and fish heads. Lucky for Bud he was able to make a run for it with his cardboard suitcase that held all his treasured belongings. On the lamb, Bud decides to find his father and a place that he belongs. He follows the clues on the pamphlets that were his mothers and had always made her sad. Bud was sure the man in the pamphlet with the huge fiddle must be his father. Walking alone at 2:30 in the morning on the way to Grand Rapids Michigan, Bud meets Lefty, a Red Cap with the railroad on a delivery to the hospital. Bud suspects that Lefty is a vampire, why else would he be carring around a box of fresh blood? Bud's luck is improving, Lefty is OK and even knows the man that Bud is looking for.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS
The audio recording by James Avery was very expressive and entertaining. I would recommend it for reluctant reader's as well as traveler's and anyone needing an audio book. The writing by Curtis of a young orphaned African American boy was very engaging. The story is told in an uplifting style that has made Bud, Not Buddy a classic. The fictional character's of Lefty and Herman Calloway are based on the author's own grandfather's. The career's of the men were representative of the times in the 1930's for fortunate black men. The Hooverville era of camps for the poor is explained in the story. Bud makes the best of his hard times with a survivors spirit. The book is recommended for 8-12, but will be enjoyed by all ages.
REVIEWS
Amazon.com
"It's funny how ideas are, in a lot of ways they're just like seeds. Both of them start real, real small and then... woop, zoop, sloop... before you can say Jack Robinson, they've gone and grown a lot bigger than you ever thought they could." So figures scrappy 10-year-old philosopher Bud--"not Buddy"--Caldwell, an orphan on the run from abusive foster homes and Hoovervilles in 1930s Michigan. And the idea that's planted itself in his head is that Herman E. Calloway, standup-bass player for the Dusky Devastators of the Depression, is his father.
Guided only by a flier for one of Calloway's shows--a small, blue poster that had mysteriously upset his mother shortly before she died--Bud sets off to track down his supposed dad, a man he's never laid eyes on. And, being 10, Bud-not-Buddy gets into all sorts of trouble along the way, barely escaping a monster-infested woodshed, stealing a vampire's car, and even getting tricked into "busting slob with a real live girl." Christopher Paul Curtis, author of The Watsons Go to Birmingham--1963, once again exhibits his skill for capturing the language and feel of an era and creates an authentic, touching, often hilarious voice in little Bud. (Ages 8 to 12) --Paul Hughes --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.
From Publishers Weekly
A 10-year-old boy in Depression-era Michigan sets out to find the man he believes to be his father. "While the harshness of Bud's circumstances are authentically depicted, Curtis imbues them with an aura of hope, and he makes readers laugh even when he sets up the most daunting scenarios," said PW in our Best Books citation. Ages 9-12.
Copyright 2002 Cahners Business Information, Inc.
CONNECTIONS
*Read other books by Curtis
Curtis, Christopher Paul. 2000. The Watsons Go to Birmingham - 1963
Laurel Leaf. ISBN-10: 044022800X
Curtis, Christopher Paul. 2006. Bucking the Sarge. Laurel Leaf; Reprint edition ISBN-10: 0440413311
Listen to the audio in a group
Curtis, Christopher Paul. 2006. BUD, NOT BUDDY. James Avery (Narrator)
Audio CD Publisher: Listening Library (Audio); Unabridged edition ISBN-10: 0739331795 ISBN-13: 978-0739331798
Delacorte Books for Young Readers (September 7, 1999) ISBN-10: 0385323069 ISBN-13: 978-0385323062
PLOT
Young Bud has been an orphan for four years. He has lived in the home since he was six. Foster families haven't worked out. The most recent, Amos family had locked him in a shed with hornets and fish heads. Lucky for Bud he was able to make a run for it with his cardboard suitcase that held all his treasured belongings. On the lamb, Bud decides to find his father and a place that he belongs. He follows the clues on the pamphlets that were his mothers and had always made her sad. Bud was sure the man in the pamphlet with the huge fiddle must be his father. Walking alone at 2:30 in the morning on the way to Grand Rapids Michigan, Bud meets Lefty, a Red Cap with the railroad on a delivery to the hospital. Bud suspects that Lefty is a vampire, why else would he be carring around a box of fresh blood? Bud's luck is improving, Lefty is OK and even knows the man that Bud is looking for.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS
The audio recording by James Avery was very expressive and entertaining. I would recommend it for reluctant reader's as well as traveler's and anyone needing an audio book. The writing by Curtis of a young orphaned African American boy was very engaging. The story is told in an uplifting style that has made Bud, Not Buddy a classic. The fictional character's of Lefty and Herman Calloway are based on the author's own grandfather's. The career's of the men were representative of the times in the 1930's for fortunate black men. The Hooverville era of camps for the poor is explained in the story. Bud makes the best of his hard times with a survivors spirit. The book is recommended for 8-12, but will be enjoyed by all ages.
REVIEWS
Amazon.com
"It's funny how ideas are, in a lot of ways they're just like seeds. Both of them start real, real small and then... woop, zoop, sloop... before you can say Jack Robinson, they've gone and grown a lot bigger than you ever thought they could." So figures scrappy 10-year-old philosopher Bud--"not Buddy"--Caldwell, an orphan on the run from abusive foster homes and Hoovervilles in 1930s Michigan. And the idea that's planted itself in his head is that Herman E. Calloway, standup-bass player for the Dusky Devastators of the Depression, is his father.
Guided only by a flier for one of Calloway's shows--a small, blue poster that had mysteriously upset his mother shortly before she died--Bud sets off to track down his supposed dad, a man he's never laid eyes on. And, being 10, Bud-not-Buddy gets into all sorts of trouble along the way, barely escaping a monster-infested woodshed, stealing a vampire's car, and even getting tricked into "busting slob with a real live girl." Christopher Paul Curtis, author of The Watsons Go to Birmingham--1963, once again exhibits his skill for capturing the language and feel of an era and creates an authentic, touching, often hilarious voice in little Bud. (Ages 8 to 12) --Paul Hughes --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.
From Publishers Weekly
A 10-year-old boy in Depression-era Michigan sets out to find the man he believes to be his father. "While the harshness of Bud's circumstances are authentically depicted, Curtis imbues them with an aura of hope, and he makes readers laugh even when he sets up the most daunting scenarios," said PW in our Best Books citation. Ages 9-12.
Copyright 2002 Cahners Business Information, Inc.
CONNECTIONS
*Read other books by Curtis
Curtis, Christopher Paul. 2000. The Watsons Go to Birmingham - 1963
Laurel Leaf. ISBN-10: 044022800X
Curtis, Christopher Paul. 2006. Bucking the Sarge. Laurel Leaf; Reprint edition ISBN-10: 0440413311
Listen to the audio in a group
MIRACLE'S BOYS
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Woodson, Jacqueline. 2006. MIRACLE’S BOYS. G.P.Putnam's Sons, New York. ISBN: 978-0142406021.
PLOT SUMMARY
Three brothers struggle to get by in New York City after the death of their mother. Ty'ree, the oldest is twenty two and has put college on hold to keep his family together. Charlie, is back home after spending two years at Rahway, a home for wayward boys. Charlie was away when his mother died and only allowed a short visit home for his mother's funeral. Charlie carries around his problems, "It's more like a gorilla on his back than a monkey." The youngest brother, Lafayette is confused about his last memories of his mother. His most important possession is a picture of his mom.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Ages 9-12 Coretta Scott King Award
A sad but heart-warming story that shows the strength and love of three African American brothers who have experienced a tragic setback in their already difficult lives. This book is a wonderful example of how young adults can fight all odds. With the help of each other they find that there is still hope. They are barely getting by living on their own but sticking together will help them accomplish the task. I would recommend this book for both young folks and adults. It gives opportunities for discussion. It was a well written novel with sincere honest emotion.
REVIEWS
Amazon.com
"Sometimes I feel like our life is one big work of art--it's everything" [Charlie] stared down at his bare feet. "And nothing."
"This isn't art," I said. "It's our block! It's our life."
If only, if only... Life is full of poignant hypotheticals for Ty'ree, Charlie, and Lafayette, three brothers who are raising themselves after they lost their father to a drowning accident and their mother to diabetes. Each boy deals with his grief in his own way: the oldest, Ty'ree, has given up his dreams of college to work full time to support the others. Charlie is slipping into a life of crime, and is just back, angry and alienated, from two years at a correctional facility. Lafayette, the youngest brother, has retreated inward, avoiding his friends and blaming himself for his mother's death. These three are struggling against pretty large odds, but "brother to brother to brother," they can survive. (Ages 9 and older) --Emilie Coulter
From Publishers Weekly
Once again, Woodson (If You Come Softly; From the Notebooks of Melanin Sun) reveals a keen understanding of the adolescent psyche via the narration of a winning seventh-grader. Lafayette, whose mother has recently died, is worried that some day he will be separated from his two older brothers: high-school-graduate Ty'ree, who gave up a scholarship to MIT to take care of his younger siblings; and Charlie, the rebellious middle boy, who, after spending more than two years in a correctional facility, has returned home cold and tough. (Lafayette calls him "Newcharlie," because his brother, with whom he was once so close, now seems unrecognizable to him.) Viewing household tensions and hardships through Lafayette's eyes, readers will come to realize each character's internal conflicts and recognize their desperate need to cling together as a family. The boys' loyalties to one another are tested during a cathartic climax, though it is resolved a bit too easily, and Lafayette's visions of his mother aren't fully developed or integrated into the plot. Gang violence and urban poverty play an integral part in this novel, but what readers will remember most is the brothers' deep-rooted affection for one another. An intelligently wrought, thought-provoking story. Ages 10-up.
Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.
CONNECTIONS
Books by Jacqueline Woodson
IF YOU COME SOFTLY. 2006 Puffin; Reissue edition, ISBN-10: 0142406015
LOCOMOTION. 2004 . Puffin, NewYork ISBN 0142401498 ISBN-13: 978-0142401491
Woodson, Jacqueline. 2006. MIRACLE’S BOYS. G.P.Putnam's Sons, New York. ISBN: 978-0142406021.
PLOT SUMMARY
Three brothers struggle to get by in New York City after the death of their mother. Ty'ree, the oldest is twenty two and has put college on hold to keep his family together. Charlie, is back home after spending two years at Rahway, a home for wayward boys. Charlie was away when his mother died and only allowed a short visit home for his mother's funeral. Charlie carries around his problems, "It's more like a gorilla on his back than a monkey." The youngest brother, Lafayette is confused about his last memories of his mother. His most important possession is a picture of his mom.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Ages 9-12 Coretta Scott King Award
A sad but heart-warming story that shows the strength and love of three African American brothers who have experienced a tragic setback in their already difficult lives. This book is a wonderful example of how young adults can fight all odds. With the help of each other they find that there is still hope. They are barely getting by living on their own but sticking together will help them accomplish the task. I would recommend this book for both young folks and adults. It gives opportunities for discussion. It was a well written novel with sincere honest emotion.
REVIEWS
Amazon.com
"Sometimes I feel like our life is one big work of art--it's everything" [Charlie] stared down at his bare feet. "And nothing."
"This isn't art," I said. "It's our block! It's our life."
If only, if only... Life is full of poignant hypotheticals for Ty'ree, Charlie, and Lafayette, three brothers who are raising themselves after they lost their father to a drowning accident and their mother to diabetes. Each boy deals with his grief in his own way: the oldest, Ty'ree, has given up his dreams of college to work full time to support the others. Charlie is slipping into a life of crime, and is just back, angry and alienated, from two years at a correctional facility. Lafayette, the youngest brother, has retreated inward, avoiding his friends and blaming himself for his mother's death. These three are struggling against pretty large odds, but "brother to brother to brother," they can survive. (Ages 9 and older) --Emilie Coulter
From Publishers Weekly
Once again, Woodson (If You Come Softly; From the Notebooks of Melanin Sun) reveals a keen understanding of the adolescent psyche via the narration of a winning seventh-grader. Lafayette, whose mother has recently died, is worried that some day he will be separated from his two older brothers: high-school-graduate Ty'ree, who gave up a scholarship to MIT to take care of his younger siblings; and Charlie, the rebellious middle boy, who, after spending more than two years in a correctional facility, has returned home cold and tough. (Lafayette calls him "Newcharlie," because his brother, with whom he was once so close, now seems unrecognizable to him.) Viewing household tensions and hardships through Lafayette's eyes, readers will come to realize each character's internal conflicts and recognize their desperate need to cling together as a family. The boys' loyalties to one another are tested during a cathartic climax, though it is resolved a bit too easily, and Lafayette's visions of his mother aren't fully developed or integrated into the plot. Gang violence and urban poverty play an integral part in this novel, but what readers will remember most is the brothers' deep-rooted affection for one another. An intelligently wrought, thought-provoking story. Ages 10-up.
Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.
CONNECTIONS
Books by Jacqueline Woodson
IF YOU COME SOFTLY. 2006 Puffin; Reissue edition, ISBN-10: 0142406015
LOCOMOTION. 2004 . Puffin, NewYork ISBN 0142401498 ISBN-13: 978-0142401491
DUKE ELLINGTON: THE PIANO PRINCE AND HIS ORCHESTRA
1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Pinkney, Andrea Davis. 1998. DUKE ELLINGTON: THE PIANO PRINCE AND HIS ORCHESTRA Ill. Brian Pinkney. Hyperion Books For Children, New York. ISBN: 0-7868-2150-7
2. PLOT SUMMARY
As a boy, Duke didn’t want to practice the piano. He thought it had an “umpy-dump” sound. Years later as a young man Duke heard a ragtime piano player and fell in love with the new sound. It had a “soul rousing romp” that had Duke hooked. He practiced the piano with all his heart until he was playing in clubs and honky-tonks in Washington DC and New York City. Duke Ellington and his Orchestra had hit the big time when they played at The Cotton Club in Harlem. "It was considered the swankiest hangout, a big time nightspot”. The orchestra was made up of several talented musicians that he called his cats. In 1943 they played at Carnegie Hall in New York
CRITICAL ANALYSIS
The story of Duke Ellington makes you feel like you are in the 1930’s with the sound of swing that Ellington was famous for on every page. Duke's composition of Black Brown and Beige, “elaborates the history of African American people. A suite that rocked the bosom and lifted the soul. It sang the glories of dark skin, the pride of African heritage, and the triumphs of black people, from the days of slavery to years of the civil right struggle." It is very engaging with its colorful illustrations that are full of movement. The illustrations are on scratchboard with gouache and oil. It has a biography page on Edward Kennedy 'Duke' Ellington with a source list.
Caldecott Honor Book
Ages 4-8
REVIEWS
Amazon.com
Edward Kennedy Ellington, "King of the Keys," was born on April 29, 1899, in Washington, D.C. "He was a smooth-talkin', slick-steppin', piano-playin' kid," writes master wordsmith Andrea Pinkney in the rhythmic, fluid, swinging prose of this excellent biography for early readers. It was ragtime music that first "set Duke's fingers to wiggling." He got back to work and taught himself to "press on the pearlies." Soon 19-year-old Duke was playing compositions "smoother than a hairdo sleeked with pomade" at parties, pool halls, country clubs, and cabarets. Skipping from D.C. to 1920s Harlem, "the place where jazz music ruled," Duke and his small band called the Washingtonians began performing in New York City clubs, including the Cotton Club, where Duke Ellington and his Orchestra was officially born. By 1943, Duke Ellington--writer of more than 1000 compositions, including ballet and film scores, orchestral suites, musicals, and choral works--had made it all the way to Carnegie Hall.
We applaud this talented husband-and-wife team--award-winning illustrator Brian Pinkney and writer Andrea Pinkney--for making music fly in this fantastic tribute to a jazz legend. Andrea does an extraordinary job of translating music into words, with blues "deeper than the deep blue sea" and "hot-buttered bob, with lots of sassy-cool tones," while her husband visually interprets the movement of music as spirals, waves, and swirls of color, prepared as scratchboard renderings with luma dyes, gouache, and oil paint. Andrea writes, "Toby let loose on his sleek brass sax, curling his notes like a kite tail in the wind. A musical loop-de-loop, with a serious twist," while Brian paints those curling notes, the loop-de-loops, and the kite sailing up to the New York City skyline. Young readers will enjoy the rhythm and beauty of the story itself, and may even be inspired to give Raffi a rest and swing with the Duke! (Great read-aloud, ages 4 to 8) --Karin Snelson, Amazon.com Kids editor
School Library Journal
Grade 1-5AA royal introduction to the piano prince. Told in a swingy conversational tone and highlighting the musician's childhood, early ragtime days, and stellar rise to popularity, playing at the Cotton Club and, later, Carnegie Hall, this is a jazzy treat. It is rare to find text that describes music so well. Phrases such as "sassy ride on his cymbal," "musical stream," and "purple dash of brass" carry the auditory experiences of the Duke's music right off the page. Young readers will find more than just a few facts here. They will learn what Duke Ellington did for the jazz world, how his music was played, and the legacy he left behind. Brian Pinkney's distinctive scratchboard, gouache and oil paintings are a harmonious complement to Andrea Pinkney's text. Bright, wild colors on soft neon backgrounds are beautifully balanced with black-and-white highlights. It is the blending of words, symbols, and pictures that bring this subject to life. A page of biographical information and impressive source notes conclude the presentation. This book swings. Don't miss it.ABeth Tegart, Oneida City Schools, NY
Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.
CONNECTIONS
Share a recording of the music of Duke Ellington and his Orchestra
Share a book of the instruments played in a jazz band
Pinkney, Andrea Davis. 1998. DUKE ELLINGTON: THE PIANO PRINCE AND HIS ORCHESTRA Ill. Brian Pinkney. Hyperion Books For Children, New York. ISBN: 0-7868-2150-7
2. PLOT SUMMARY
As a boy, Duke didn’t want to practice the piano. He thought it had an “umpy-dump” sound. Years later as a young man Duke heard a ragtime piano player and fell in love with the new sound. It had a “soul rousing romp” that had Duke hooked. He practiced the piano with all his heart until he was playing in clubs and honky-tonks in Washington DC and New York City. Duke Ellington and his Orchestra had hit the big time when they played at The Cotton Club in Harlem. "It was considered the swankiest hangout, a big time nightspot”. The orchestra was made up of several talented musicians that he called his cats. In 1943 they played at Carnegie Hall in New York
CRITICAL ANALYSIS
The story of Duke Ellington makes you feel like you are in the 1930’s with the sound of swing that Ellington was famous for on every page. Duke's composition of Black Brown and Beige, “elaborates the history of African American people. A suite that rocked the bosom and lifted the soul. It sang the glories of dark skin, the pride of African heritage, and the triumphs of black people, from the days of slavery to years of the civil right struggle." It is very engaging with its colorful illustrations that are full of movement. The illustrations are on scratchboard with gouache and oil. It has a biography page on Edward Kennedy 'Duke' Ellington with a source list.
Caldecott Honor Book
Ages 4-8
REVIEWS
Amazon.com
Edward Kennedy Ellington, "King of the Keys," was born on April 29, 1899, in Washington, D.C. "He was a smooth-talkin', slick-steppin', piano-playin' kid," writes master wordsmith Andrea Pinkney in the rhythmic, fluid, swinging prose of this excellent biography for early readers. It was ragtime music that first "set Duke's fingers to wiggling." He got back to work and taught himself to "press on the pearlies." Soon 19-year-old Duke was playing compositions "smoother than a hairdo sleeked with pomade" at parties, pool halls, country clubs, and cabarets. Skipping from D.C. to 1920s Harlem, "the place where jazz music ruled," Duke and his small band called the Washingtonians began performing in New York City clubs, including the Cotton Club, where Duke Ellington and his Orchestra was officially born. By 1943, Duke Ellington--writer of more than 1000 compositions, including ballet and film scores, orchestral suites, musicals, and choral works--had made it all the way to Carnegie Hall.
We applaud this talented husband-and-wife team--award-winning illustrator Brian Pinkney and writer Andrea Pinkney--for making music fly in this fantastic tribute to a jazz legend. Andrea does an extraordinary job of translating music into words, with blues "deeper than the deep blue sea" and "hot-buttered bob, with lots of sassy-cool tones," while her husband visually interprets the movement of music as spirals, waves, and swirls of color, prepared as scratchboard renderings with luma dyes, gouache, and oil paint. Andrea writes, "Toby let loose on his sleek brass sax, curling his notes like a kite tail in the wind. A musical loop-de-loop, with a serious twist," while Brian paints those curling notes, the loop-de-loops, and the kite sailing up to the New York City skyline. Young readers will enjoy the rhythm and beauty of the story itself, and may even be inspired to give Raffi a rest and swing with the Duke! (Great read-aloud, ages 4 to 8) --Karin Snelson, Amazon.com Kids editor
School Library Journal
Grade 1-5AA royal introduction to the piano prince. Told in a swingy conversational tone and highlighting the musician's childhood, early ragtime days, and stellar rise to popularity, playing at the Cotton Club and, later, Carnegie Hall, this is a jazzy treat. It is rare to find text that describes music so well. Phrases such as "sassy ride on his cymbal," "musical stream," and "purple dash of brass" carry the auditory experiences of the Duke's music right off the page. Young readers will find more than just a few facts here. They will learn what Duke Ellington did for the jazz world, how his music was played, and the legacy he left behind. Brian Pinkney's distinctive scratchboard, gouache and oil paintings are a harmonious complement to Andrea Pinkney's text. Bright, wild colors on soft neon backgrounds are beautifully balanced with black-and-white highlights. It is the blending of words, symbols, and pictures that bring this subject to life. A page of biographical information and impressive source notes conclude the presentation. This book swings. Don't miss it.ABeth Tegart, Oneida City Schools, NY
Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.
CONNECTIONS
Share a recording of the music of Duke Ellington and his Orchestra
Share a book of the instruments played in a jazz band
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
Koala Lou by Mem Fox
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Fox, Mem. 1988. Koala Lou. Pamela Lofts,Ill. New York, NY: Harcourt, Inc. ISBN 0-15-200502-1
PLOT SUMMARY
A young Koala misses the special time she spent with her mother before she had several brothers and sisters. She trains for the Bush Olympics in hopes of attracting her Mother’s attention. She is dedicated to her training but doesn’t win first place. Koala Lou discovers that her Mother loves her regardless of the results of the competition.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS
The illustrations by Pamela Lofts are wonderful and creative. The colored pencil drawings are lively and show emotion. The book Koala Lou gives an introduction to young children of the animals of Australia. Koala Lou reflects the real concern that a child has with the addition of siblings to the family. It is a heartwarming story for ages three and up that is sure to become a favorite.
REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
From Publishers Weekly
Fox's two new books join Wilfrid Gordon McDonald Partridge as perfect examples of why the Australian writer has become one of today's top authors of children's books. Koala Lou is loved by everyone, but it is her mother who loves her most of all. She often tells her daughter, "Koala Lou, I DO love you." As the family grows and her mother gets busier, Koala Lou yearns to hear those words again. She sets out to win the Bush Olympics as a way to gain her mother's attention. Lofts's colored-pencil drawings portray the Australian flora and fauna beautifully, including a few of the more exotic species. Koala Lou celebrates the eternal love of a mother for her child without the sentimentality of Robert Munsch's Love You Forever… Ages 3-6.
Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Book Description
When Koala Lou’s mother becomes so busy that she forgets to tell her firstborn how much she loves her, Koala Lou enters the Bush Olympics, intending to win an event and her mother’s love all at one time. “A first-rate choice for bedtime, story hour, or reading aloud.”--The Horn Book
CONNECTIONS
*Mem Fox. 1999. Wombat Divine. ISBN-10: 0152020969
*Mem Fox. 2005. Hunwick’s Egg. ISBN-10: 0152163182
Share books on the animal’s of Australia
John Bonnett Wexo. 1997. Koalas and Other Australian Animals (Zoobooks Series)
Hannelore Sotzek. 1997. The Koala Is Not a Bear! ISBN-10: 0865057397
Sing “Kookaburra sits in the Old Gum Tree”
Fox, Mem. 1988. Koala Lou. Pamela Lofts,Ill. New York, NY: Harcourt, Inc. ISBN 0-15-200502-1
PLOT SUMMARY
A young Koala misses the special time she spent with her mother before she had several brothers and sisters. She trains for the Bush Olympics in hopes of attracting her Mother’s attention. She is dedicated to her training but doesn’t win first place. Koala Lou discovers that her Mother loves her regardless of the results of the competition.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS
The illustrations by Pamela Lofts are wonderful and creative. The colored pencil drawings are lively and show emotion. The book Koala Lou gives an introduction to young children of the animals of Australia. Koala Lou reflects the real concern that a child has with the addition of siblings to the family. It is a heartwarming story for ages three and up that is sure to become a favorite.
REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
From Publishers Weekly
Fox's two new books join Wilfrid Gordon McDonald Partridge as perfect examples of why the Australian writer has become one of today's top authors of children's books. Koala Lou is loved by everyone, but it is her mother who loves her most of all. She often tells her daughter, "Koala Lou, I DO love you." As the family grows and her mother gets busier, Koala Lou yearns to hear those words again. She sets out to win the Bush Olympics as a way to gain her mother's attention. Lofts's colored-pencil drawings portray the Australian flora and fauna beautifully, including a few of the more exotic species. Koala Lou celebrates the eternal love of a mother for her child without the sentimentality of Robert Munsch's Love You Forever… Ages 3-6.
Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Book Description
When Koala Lou’s mother becomes so busy that she forgets to tell her firstborn how much she loves her, Koala Lou enters the Bush Olympics, intending to win an event and her mother’s love all at one time. “A first-rate choice for bedtime, story hour, or reading aloud.”--The Horn Book
CONNECTIONS
*Mem Fox. 1999. Wombat Divine. ISBN-10: 0152020969
*Mem Fox. 2005. Hunwick’s Egg. ISBN-10: 0152163182
Share books on the animal’s of Australia
John Bonnett Wexo. 1997. Koalas and Other Australian Animals (Zoobooks Series)
Hannelore Sotzek. 1997. The Koala Is Not a Bear! ISBN-10: 0865057397
Sing “Kookaburra sits in the Old Gum Tree”
The Robber and Me by Josef Holub
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Holub, Joseph. 1996. The Robber and Me. New York, New York: Henry Holt and Company. ISBN 0-8050-5599-1
PLOT SUMMARY
Boniface Schroll has been an orphan for a year and a half. He has lived with his aunt who doesn’t know anything about boys. The Orphan Court has decided to send the eleven-year-old to live with his Uncle, the Mayor of Graab. Boniface is left abandoned by the wagon driver in the forest on the way to his new home. He becomes lost in the night and falls asleep exhausted. The Robber finds Boniface and delivers him to the Mayor’s doorstep.
The village has harsh strange rules that are easy to break. The poor finding it the most difficult. If they can’t pay the fine, they are locked in the local jail. The Schoolmaster, a powerful person in Graab, treats the poor children of the community with unjust harshness. Boniface is not to be seen with his new friend Christopher, the son of the accused Robber. When the Robber is accused of even greater crimes, Boniface must give him an alibi. Boniface is worried that the new life in Graab with his Uncle will be lost.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS
The Robber and Me was given the 1998 Mildred R. Batchelder Award. The author sharesgives an idea of what life was like for people living in Germany in the early 1800’s. It combines mystery with the historical genre of the time. It is an interesting story that is enjoyable for children 7 and up. The author shares the fears and concerns through a child’s eyes. It includes an explanation of the use of vowel combination and a glossary of new words with several in German.
REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
Amazon.com
"I was often afraid," says young Boniface Schroll, the protagonist of Josef Holub's prize-winning novel set in 19th-century Germany. "Sometimes I was afraid of tomorrow, or afraid that I would do something wrong." A city boy and orphan with a funny name and a head of girlish ringlets, Boniface is confronted by those fears when he is sent from the house of a stingy aunt to live with his uncle, the stern but decent mayor of the village of Graab.
Here he sleeps under a thick down comforter and is fattened up and fussed over by his uncle's kindly, maternal maid, Frederika. Nevertheless, he soon realizes that life in Graab is restricted by stifling rules that keep the kids in line at school and the townspeople orderly and fearful of strangers. When Boniface becomes friends with the son of a reputed robber, he fully realizes the small-minded prejudices that oppress the village and becomes entangled in a local mystery. In the end he must risk his comfortable new life in order to tell the truth.
This engaging historical novel, translated from German, won the 1998 Mildred R. Batchelder Award for excellence in children's literature. Older readers will enjoy the fascinating window into life in old-time, small-town Germany, with a short glossary of German and archaic words at the end. An old-fashioned mystery, The Robber and Me is a refreshing change of pace in middle-grade fiction. (Ages 11 and older) --Maria Dolan --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
Parents' Choice®
Boniface, an eleven-year-old orphan, is shipped off to a neighboring village to live with the mayor, his uncle. Transported by a hired wagon driver, he is unceremoniously dumped in the forest at night where he wanders until he collapses on the verge of unconsciousness. He is rescued by someone he comes to suspect is the locally vilified robber. A thoroughly likable character, Boniface matures in a believable fashion in an old-fashioned setting - rural Germany in 1867. A 1998 Parents' Choice® Silver Honor.
Reviewed by Kemie Nix, Parents' Choice® 1998 --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
CONNECTIONS
* Josef Holub. 2007. Innocent Soldier. ISBN-10: 0439627729
* Gloria Whelan. 2004. The Impossible Journey. ISBN-10: 0064410838
Talk about the immigration to America and share a map of Germany and the route to America.
Holub, Joseph. 1996. The Robber and Me. New York, New York: Henry Holt and Company. ISBN 0-8050-5599-1
PLOT SUMMARY
Boniface Schroll has been an orphan for a year and a half. He has lived with his aunt who doesn’t know anything about boys. The Orphan Court has decided to send the eleven-year-old to live with his Uncle, the Mayor of Graab. Boniface is left abandoned by the wagon driver in the forest on the way to his new home. He becomes lost in the night and falls asleep exhausted. The Robber finds Boniface and delivers him to the Mayor’s doorstep.
The village has harsh strange rules that are easy to break. The poor finding it the most difficult. If they can’t pay the fine, they are locked in the local jail. The Schoolmaster, a powerful person in Graab, treats the poor children of the community with unjust harshness. Boniface is not to be seen with his new friend Christopher, the son of the accused Robber. When the Robber is accused of even greater crimes, Boniface must give him an alibi. Boniface is worried that the new life in Graab with his Uncle will be lost.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS
The Robber and Me was given the 1998 Mildred R. Batchelder Award. The author sharesgives an idea of what life was like for people living in Germany in the early 1800’s. It combines mystery with the historical genre of the time. It is an interesting story that is enjoyable for children 7 and up. The author shares the fears and concerns through a child’s eyes. It includes an explanation of the use of vowel combination and a glossary of new words with several in German.
REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
Amazon.com
"I was often afraid," says young Boniface Schroll, the protagonist of Josef Holub's prize-winning novel set in 19th-century Germany. "Sometimes I was afraid of tomorrow, or afraid that I would do something wrong." A city boy and orphan with a funny name and a head of girlish ringlets, Boniface is confronted by those fears when he is sent from the house of a stingy aunt to live with his uncle, the stern but decent mayor of the village of Graab.
Here he sleeps under a thick down comforter and is fattened up and fussed over by his uncle's kindly, maternal maid, Frederika. Nevertheless, he soon realizes that life in Graab is restricted by stifling rules that keep the kids in line at school and the townspeople orderly and fearful of strangers. When Boniface becomes friends with the son of a reputed robber, he fully realizes the small-minded prejudices that oppress the village and becomes entangled in a local mystery. In the end he must risk his comfortable new life in order to tell the truth.
This engaging historical novel, translated from German, won the 1998 Mildred R. Batchelder Award for excellence in children's literature. Older readers will enjoy the fascinating window into life in old-time, small-town Germany, with a short glossary of German and archaic words at the end. An old-fashioned mystery, The Robber and Me is a refreshing change of pace in middle-grade fiction. (Ages 11 and older) --Maria Dolan --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
Parents' Choice®
Boniface, an eleven-year-old orphan, is shipped off to a neighboring village to live with the mayor, his uncle. Transported by a hired wagon driver, he is unceremoniously dumped in the forest at night where he wanders until he collapses on the verge of unconsciousness. He is rescued by someone he comes to suspect is the locally vilified robber. A thoroughly likable character, Boniface matures in a believable fashion in an old-fashioned setting - rural Germany in 1867. A 1998 Parents' Choice® Silver Honor.
Reviewed by Kemie Nix, Parents' Choice® 1998 --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
CONNECTIONS
* Josef Holub. 2007. Innocent Soldier. ISBN-10: 0439627729
* Gloria Whelan. 2004. The Impossible Journey. ISBN-10: 0064410838
Talk about the immigration to America and share a map of Germany and the route to America.
Tuesday, June 12, 2007
Looking for X by Deborah Ellis
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Ellis, Deborah. 1999. Looking for X.. Toronto, Ontario: Groundwork Books, Douglas and McIntyre. ISBN 0-88899-378-1
PLOT SUMMARY
In this book, a young girl of eleven helps her mom care for her 5-year-old brothers with autism. She plans on becoming a world explorer with her favorite possession being an atlas. Khyber choose her name from the Khyber Pass, a place she wants to visit one day. The name her mother gave her is considered unspeakable. Khyber loves her family. She is responsible and mature in her ability to care for her brothers. When the decision to place her brothers in a home with professionals is made, Khyber is upset and resentful.
Advancement of two grades in school has left her without friends her own age. A homeless woman called X is on her list of friends. X is a homeless woman that doesn't talk much and carries an empty suitcase. X thinks the secret police are looking for her and has few people she can trust. X trusts Khyber and will eat the peanut butter sandwiches that Kyhber brings her.
A gang of skinheads in the park beats Khyber and X. When the school is vandalized, Khyber’s problems with her teacher make her a suspect. Khyber doesn’t want to tell her mother that she was in a fight so she spends the night on the street among the homeless searching for X so she can clear her name. Kyhber is fortunate to find new friends that help her get home.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Looking for X, gives readers an idea of what it be like to be homeless. Ellis writes in a 'matter of fact tone' that is realistic to the character of the book. The characters in the book are interesting and believable. Readers will like Khyber and identify with her even if they haven’t experienced the life of living on public assistance and caring for siblings with autism. The mother is loving and is determined to raise her daughter with values. The mothers love for Khyber and her brothers are the foundation for Khyber’s strength and determination. I would recommend reading Looking for X and other books by Deborah Ellis.
REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
School Library JournalGrade 6-8-Eleven-year-old Khyber lives with her mother and autistic twin brothers in a low-income area in Toronto. In addition to her problems at school (she skipped two grades and doesn't fit in), she deals with her mother's decision to send her brothers to a group home, some menacing skinheads, a false accusation of vandalism that gets her expelled, and a search for her homeless friend, "X." Khyber loves her family and gladly goes beyond what one would expect of a child in order to help her mother and "X." Her friends are an odd assortment of characters, all adults. There are just too many quirks and issues to make this book believable. Some aspects of the plot are far-fetched and everything falls into place just a little too neatly at the end. On the other hand, all of the characters seem real and natural. Khyber is a likable protagonist and readers will appreciate how she copes with her issues. If they can accept some of the improbable circumstances, they will enjoy the story.Leslie Ann Lacika, Dingman-Delaware Middle School, Dingman's Ferry, PA Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
Booklist"I call myself Khyber after the Khyber Pass in Afghanistan," says the feisty 11-year-old protagonist of Ellis' fine first novel. Khyber fantasizes about visiting the Pass and other exotic places to escape the harsh realities of her life, including her odd-girl-out status at school. Living on public assistance with her single mom and five-year-old autistic twin brothers, Khyber retreats emotionally from others, trusting only a few adults, including a mysterious, homeless woman whom Khyber names X. Later, skinheads rough up Khyber and X, and at the same time, some school windows are broken. When Khyber is blamed for the vandalism, she must find X to corroborate the attack and provide an alibi. It would be easy for the book to drown in bleakness, but Khyber's strong spirit and believable personality will draw readers in and make them wonder about the characters' future adventures. Anne O'MalleyCopyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
CONNECTIONS
*Ellis, Deborah. Breadwinner Groundwood Books ISBN 0888994168
*Ellis, Deborah. The Heaven Shop. Oxford University Press ISBN 0192754351
Ellis, Deborah. 1999. Looking for X.. Toronto, Ontario: Groundwork Books, Douglas and McIntyre. ISBN 0-88899-378-1
PLOT SUMMARY
In this book, a young girl of eleven helps her mom care for her 5-year-old brothers with autism. She plans on becoming a world explorer with her favorite possession being an atlas. Khyber choose her name from the Khyber Pass, a place she wants to visit one day. The name her mother gave her is considered unspeakable. Khyber loves her family. She is responsible and mature in her ability to care for her brothers. When the decision to place her brothers in a home with professionals is made, Khyber is upset and resentful.
Advancement of two grades in school has left her without friends her own age. A homeless woman called X is on her list of friends. X is a homeless woman that doesn't talk much and carries an empty suitcase. X thinks the secret police are looking for her and has few people she can trust. X trusts Khyber and will eat the peanut butter sandwiches that Kyhber brings her.
A gang of skinheads in the park beats Khyber and X. When the school is vandalized, Khyber’s problems with her teacher make her a suspect. Khyber doesn’t want to tell her mother that she was in a fight so she spends the night on the street among the homeless searching for X so she can clear her name. Kyhber is fortunate to find new friends that help her get home.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Looking for X, gives readers an idea of what it be like to be homeless. Ellis writes in a 'matter of fact tone' that is realistic to the character of the book. The characters in the book are interesting and believable. Readers will like Khyber and identify with her even if they haven’t experienced the life of living on public assistance and caring for siblings with autism. The mother is loving and is determined to raise her daughter with values. The mothers love for Khyber and her brothers are the foundation for Khyber’s strength and determination. I would recommend reading Looking for X and other books by Deborah Ellis.
REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
School Library JournalGrade 6-8-Eleven-year-old Khyber lives with her mother and autistic twin brothers in a low-income area in Toronto. In addition to her problems at school (she skipped two grades and doesn't fit in), she deals with her mother's decision to send her brothers to a group home, some menacing skinheads, a false accusation of vandalism that gets her expelled, and a search for her homeless friend, "X." Khyber loves her family and gladly goes beyond what one would expect of a child in order to help her mother and "X." Her friends are an odd assortment of characters, all adults. There are just too many quirks and issues to make this book believable. Some aspects of the plot are far-fetched and everything falls into place just a little too neatly at the end. On the other hand, all of the characters seem real and natural. Khyber is a likable protagonist and readers will appreciate how she copes with her issues. If they can accept some of the improbable circumstances, they will enjoy the story.Leslie Ann Lacika, Dingman-Delaware Middle School, Dingman's Ferry, PA Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
Booklist"I call myself Khyber after the Khyber Pass in Afghanistan," says the feisty 11-year-old protagonist of Ellis' fine first novel. Khyber fantasizes about visiting the Pass and other exotic places to escape the harsh realities of her life, including her odd-girl-out status at school. Living on public assistance with her single mom and five-year-old autistic twin brothers, Khyber retreats emotionally from others, trusting only a few adults, including a mysterious, homeless woman whom Khyber names X. Later, skinheads rough up Khyber and X, and at the same time, some school windows are broken. When Khyber is blamed for the vandalism, she must find X to corroborate the attack and provide an alibi. It would be easy for the book to drown in bleakness, but Khyber's strong spirit and believable personality will draw readers in and make them wonder about the characters' future adventures. Anne O'MalleyCopyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
CONNECTIONS
*Ellis, Deborah. Breadwinner Groundwood Books ISBN 0888994168
*Ellis, Deborah. The Heaven Shop. Oxford University Press ISBN 0192754351
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