Bibliography
LaFaye, A. 2004. Worth. New York: Simon & Schuster.
ISBN: 0-689-85730-6
Summary
Eleven year old, Nate helps father with all the farm work, but after an accident, Nate is no longer able to help. Nate's father brings home John Worth, an orphan, to take Nate's placed with the farm chores. Nate feels even worse about himself once John arrives, creating a wedge between the two boys. As time passes, Nate and John make a connection.
Critical Analysis
The Scott O'Dell Award winning book, Worth by A. LaFaye is a superb story of a boy's pioneer life and the difficult times his family endures. Nate, the main character, mangles his leg in an accident on the farm at the age of 12. Father feels responsible, Nate's heart is broken when he realizes his leg will prevent him from working the farm along with his father, and mother is bitter from the past. In an effort to get help with the work on the farm, father adopts an orphan boy, John Worth.
LaFaye's excellent use of words helps readers make connections to the characters while also develop the style of pioneer life. For example, when Nate thinks what it would be like losing his family like John Worth he was "crushed up inside" (31). Another example can be found when Nate and John "talked death all the way to the house" (99). A third example is found when John is "praying up a storm" when Widow Kerensky points a shotgun at the boys (135).
The story takes place on the plains of Nebraska, where Nate and his father work the land, and mother earns extra money by "tinkering." LaFaye has developed the setting accurately, bringing in the particulars of the time period: orphan train, a soddie school, fighting between ranchers and farmers, fence cutting, lynchings, and horse-drawn wagons.
Additionally, LaFaye designs the plot perfectly for a historical fiction of this time period. She also does an excellent job a maintaining a well balanced historical details.
Worth by A. LaFaye depicts pioneer life perfectly. It is a story that is interesting and heart-felt and could be enjoyed by readers of all ages.
Review Excerpts
Publisher's Weekly reports, "LaFaye paints a realistic picture of the hardships for average families at the time the Orphan Train rode the rails. . . . The author weaves in a subtle message about the power of story, as Nate builds a bond with John by reading him Greek myths out of a borrowed book (2004).
Joel Shoemaker with School Library Journal states, "The author convincingly conveys the boys' gradual realization of the value of one another's friendship. Other themes include the importance of reading and education, meeting challenges head on, relying on and playing a responsible role in your community, and recovering from loss. A special strength of the book is the characterization of Nathaniel's mom, whose fierce anger is emotionally balanced by her dedication to her family's well-being. Although she works as a tinker, she lets her husband take credit in deference to the mores of the time. A satisfying piece of historical fiction (2004).
Review excerpts accessed from http://www.titlewave.com/
Connections
Other stories by A. LaFaye:
The Year of the Sawdust Man
Strawberry Hill
Dad, In Spirit
The Strength of Saints
Other stories about frontier life:
Maude March on the Run!, or, Trouble is Her Middle Name by Audrey Couloumbis
The Misadventures of Maude March, or, Trouble Rides a Fast Horse by Audrey Couloumbis
Sarah, Plain and Tall by Patricia MacLachlan
Bringing Ezra Back by Cynthia C. DeFelice
Little House on the Prairie and other pioneer stories by Laura Ingalls Wilder
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Sunday, October 28, 2007
Cleopatra by Diana Stanley
Bibliography
Stanley, Diane. 1994. Cleopatra. New York: Morrow Junior Books.
Illustrator: Peter Vennema
ISBN: 0-688-10413-4
Summary
This biography details the reign of Cleopatra, Queen of Egypt, from the age of 18 and concludes upon her death at the age of 39.
Critical Analysis
Outstanding author and illustrator, Diane Stanley, has written a remarkable biography about Cleopatra, an interesting person from an ancient time period.
Stanley provides a note on ancient sources before the story opens to support the authenticity and accuracy of the facts about Cleopatra. She explains that all writings about Cleopatra were written by her enemies, and the major episodes of her life were recorded by Plutarch. The written works of Plutarch have to be regarded carefully because he lived 100 years after Cleopatra and much of his writings were substantiated by her opponents (Note on Ancient Sources). Also, Stanley reports on her personal website that she travels to areas to do research on her subjects. She traveled to Egypt for research about Cleopatra (www.dianastanley.com).
The preface provided at the beginning of the book provides background information to make the story coherent. The story follows the chronological life of Cleopatra, starting at the age of eighteen and ending upon her death at the age of 39. The epilogue at the end of the book provides a nice closure to the history of the time period. Additionally, the pronunciation guide is a nice addition to make the reading more gratifying.
Stanley is teamed with an amazing illustrator to make the perfect design for this story. Gouache, a specific paint technique, is used to make the illustrations support the interesting text and are a nice complement to the story. The illustrations of the clothing, transportation, gatherings, and settings are authentic to the time period. Also, the maps are helpful resources for the reader.
Stanley's passion for history and accuracy of information keeps the story interesting and easy to read. This is an outstanding, enjoyable biography that should be part of any library's children's collection. Cleopatra by Diane Stanley is deserving of inclusion on numerous book lists, including the ALA Notable Books.
Review Excerpts
Carolyn Noah with School Library Journal reports, "In this lively, well-crafted biography, Stanley and Vennema brush the cobwebs from the popularly held portrait of Cleopatra to reveal a vital, warm, and politically adroit ruler. Lucid writing combines with carefully selected anecdotes, often attributed to the Greek historian Plutarch, to create an engaging narrative" (1994).
Publisher Weekly Review states, "The dazzling Egyptian queen proves a fertile subject for Stanley and Vennema . . . . Here they make a seemingly effortless leap into ancient times, masterfully relating Cleopatra's life story through words and pictures" (1994).
Review excerpts accessed from http://www.fortworthgov.org/library/
Connections
Other biographies/historical fiction about Cleopatra:
The Memoirs of Cleopatra by Margaret George
Cleopatra by Susan Reid
Cleopatra by Rose Blue
Cleopatra: Egypt's Last Pharaoh by Don Nardo
Queen Cleopatra by Thomas Streissguth
Stanley, Diane. 1994. Cleopatra. New York: Morrow Junior Books.
Illustrator: Peter Vennema
ISBN: 0-688-10413-4
Summary
This biography details the reign of Cleopatra, Queen of Egypt, from the age of 18 and concludes upon her death at the age of 39.
Critical Analysis
Outstanding author and illustrator, Diane Stanley, has written a remarkable biography about Cleopatra, an interesting person from an ancient time period.
Stanley provides a note on ancient sources before the story opens to support the authenticity and accuracy of the facts about Cleopatra. She explains that all writings about Cleopatra were written by her enemies, and the major episodes of her life were recorded by Plutarch. The written works of Plutarch have to be regarded carefully because he lived 100 years after Cleopatra and much of his writings were substantiated by her opponents (Note on Ancient Sources). Also, Stanley reports on her personal website that she travels to areas to do research on her subjects. She traveled to Egypt for research about Cleopatra (www.dianastanley.com).
The preface provided at the beginning of the book provides background information to make the story coherent. The story follows the chronological life of Cleopatra, starting at the age of eighteen and ending upon her death at the age of 39. The epilogue at the end of the book provides a nice closure to the history of the time period. Additionally, the pronunciation guide is a nice addition to make the reading more gratifying.
Stanley is teamed with an amazing illustrator to make the perfect design for this story. Gouache, a specific paint technique, is used to make the illustrations support the interesting text and are a nice complement to the story. The illustrations of the clothing, transportation, gatherings, and settings are authentic to the time period. Also, the maps are helpful resources for the reader.
Stanley's passion for history and accuracy of information keeps the story interesting and easy to read. This is an outstanding, enjoyable biography that should be part of any library's children's collection. Cleopatra by Diane Stanley is deserving of inclusion on numerous book lists, including the ALA Notable Books.
Review Excerpts
Carolyn Noah with School Library Journal reports, "In this lively, well-crafted biography, Stanley and Vennema brush the cobwebs from the popularly held portrait of Cleopatra to reveal a vital, warm, and politically adroit ruler. Lucid writing combines with carefully selected anecdotes, often attributed to the Greek historian Plutarch, to create an engaging narrative" (1994).
Publisher Weekly Review states, "The dazzling Egyptian queen proves a fertile subject for Stanley and Vennema . . . . Here they make a seemingly effortless leap into ancient times, masterfully relating Cleopatra's life story through words and pictures" (1994).
Review excerpts accessed from http://www.fortworthgov.org/library/
Connections
Other biographies/historical fiction about Cleopatra:
The Memoirs of Cleopatra by Margaret George
Cleopatra by Susan Reid
Cleopatra by Rose Blue
Cleopatra: Egypt's Last Pharaoh by Don Nardo
Queen Cleopatra by Thomas Streissguth
Sunday, October 21, 2007
Danger! Earthquakes by Seymour Simon
Bibliography
Simon, Seymour. 2002. Danger! Earthquakes. San Francisco: Sea Star Books.
ISBN: 0-329-27815-0
Summary
Danger! Earthquakes discusses the causes, destruction, and locations of earthquakes in an easy to read presentation.
Critical Analysis
Seymour Simon has written over 200 children's books and is an award recipient for numerous awards, including the Lifetime Achievement Award for Excellence in Science Books.
Simon has a vast array of children's books. One of his endeavors is a series for the younger reader. This series is called SeeMore Readers. Danger! Earthquake is one book of this series.
Simon's information about earthquakes is accurate and informative. Readers learn how earthquakes are measured, where earthquakes are located, and what to do in an earthquake. Danger! Earthquakes is organized well. Simon introduces earthquakes, then explains how they are measured. Next, Simon discusses specific earthquakes: the 1811 earthquake in Mississippi, the 1964 earthquake in Anchorage, Alaska, and the 1985 earthquake in Mexico City. Simon concludes the book with information on what to do if you are in an earthquake.
The book is easy to read, and simple enough for the young reader or reluctant reader. Danger! Earthquakes is fashioned after a more advanced edition by Simon, Earthquakes (1991). The text is not as detailed as the earlier version, but Simon does maintain the integrity of the information presented. Simon makes it easier to understand for the younger reader by reducing the amount of text on each page and providing careful word selection. The text on each page is less than 10 sentences and written in an easy to read font.
The book is attractive and interesting with full page photographs and pictures. The pictures provide support to the text, making it easy to comprehend. Some of the pictures are found in both of Simon's earthquake books. Unfortunately, a few of the pictures in Danger! Earthquakes appear to be lesser quality than his first book. In comparison, they are slightly grainy.
It is exciting to have a prolific writer provide books for even the youngest of readers. These books are perfect for the young and inviting enough for the reluctant reader, encouraging a foundation for curiosity about the things around them. Danger! Earthquakes, along with the rest of the series is necessary for a library collection.
Review Excerpts
Horn Book reports, "In two books in this series for beginning readers, clear, color photos and maps show the range and effects of these natural phenomena. The easy-to-read, informative text extends the illustrations and exhibits a knowledge of not only the subject but also the audience" (2002).
Edith Ching with School Library Journal states, "These easy-readers are dominated by large, colorful photographs. Many of those in Danger! appeared in Simon's Earthquakes (Morrow, 1991) and some are poorly reproduced, often grainy. A few lines of generally clear and informative text accompany the illustrations on each page " (2002).
Review excerpts accessed from http://www.titlewave.com/.
Connections
Danger! Earthquakes is part of the See More Readers series, level 2. Other books in the same series include:
Bridges
Cool Cars
Danger! Volcanoes
Giant Snakes
Skyscrapers
Super Storms
Simon, Seymour. 2002. Danger! Earthquakes. San Francisco: Sea Star Books.
ISBN: 0-329-27815-0
Summary
Danger! Earthquakes discusses the causes, destruction, and locations of earthquakes in an easy to read presentation.
Critical Analysis
Seymour Simon has written over 200 children's books and is an award recipient for numerous awards, including the Lifetime Achievement Award for Excellence in Science Books.
Simon has a vast array of children's books. One of his endeavors is a series for the younger reader. This series is called SeeMore Readers. Danger! Earthquake is one book of this series.
Simon's information about earthquakes is accurate and informative. Readers learn how earthquakes are measured, where earthquakes are located, and what to do in an earthquake. Danger! Earthquakes is organized well. Simon introduces earthquakes, then explains how they are measured. Next, Simon discusses specific earthquakes: the 1811 earthquake in Mississippi, the 1964 earthquake in Anchorage, Alaska, and the 1985 earthquake in Mexico City. Simon concludes the book with information on what to do if you are in an earthquake.
The book is easy to read, and simple enough for the young reader or reluctant reader. Danger! Earthquakes is fashioned after a more advanced edition by Simon, Earthquakes (1991). The text is not as detailed as the earlier version, but Simon does maintain the integrity of the information presented. Simon makes it easier to understand for the younger reader by reducing the amount of text on each page and providing careful word selection. The text on each page is less than 10 sentences and written in an easy to read font.
The book is attractive and interesting with full page photographs and pictures. The pictures provide support to the text, making it easy to comprehend. Some of the pictures are found in both of Simon's earthquake books. Unfortunately, a few of the pictures in Danger! Earthquakes appear to be lesser quality than his first book. In comparison, they are slightly grainy.
It is exciting to have a prolific writer provide books for even the youngest of readers. These books are perfect for the young and inviting enough for the reluctant reader, encouraging a foundation for curiosity about the things around them. Danger! Earthquakes, along with the rest of the series is necessary for a library collection.
Review Excerpts
Horn Book reports, "In two books in this series for beginning readers, clear, color photos and maps show the range and effects of these natural phenomena. The easy-to-read, informative text extends the illustrations and exhibits a knowledge of not only the subject but also the audience" (2002).
Edith Ching with School Library Journal states, "These easy-readers are dominated by large, colorful photographs. Many of those in Danger! appeared in Simon's Earthquakes (Morrow, 1991) and some are poorly reproduced, often grainy. A few lines of generally clear and informative text accompany the illustrations on each page " (2002).
Review excerpts accessed from http://www.titlewave.com/.
Connections
Danger! Earthquakes is part of the See More Readers series, level 2. Other books in the same series include:
Bridges
Cool Cars
Danger! Volcanoes
Giant Snakes
Skyscrapers
Super Storms
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Actual Size by Steve Jenkins
Bibliography
Jenkins, Steve. 2004. Actual Size. Boston: Houghton Mifflin.
ISBN: 0-618-37594-5
Summary
Author, Steve Jenkins presents the size of animals or parts of those animals in collage illustrations. Weight and length/height is included on each page. Information about each animal is also provided at the end of the book.
Critical Analysis
Award winning author/illustrator Steve Jenkins has presented an exceptional nonfiction book in Actual Size.
Jenkins introduces sizes and facts about different animals in accurate detail. The most fascinating part of the book is made obvious in the illustrations. Each illustration is drawn to scale. Jenkins presents the animal where only part of the animal may fit on each page. For example, the great white shark page includes only five full teeth and the top of the mouth. On another page, the pygmy mouse lemur is seen in actual size: 2 1/2 inches tall.
The book is organized well, with a logical and coherent layout. Some pages present two animals so the reader can compare sizes. The presentation of animals is presented in alternating pattern of small and big. The animals' sizes become more concrete through Jenkins carefully planned and detailed comparisons.
Jenkins' illustrations help to make this book inviting for even the youngest of readers. The illustrations are collages of cut and torn paper. The colors of the papers are so creative the texture and details of the animals' covering are made obvious. For example, the Siberian tiger's whiskers and the fuzz of the fur are apparent in the illustration. Also, Jenkins uses font size to his advantage. The font is set as a small Futura type so as to keep the focus on the illustration. The animals' name are set in a bold font to help distinguish the animal on each page.
Jenkins' writing is simple and clear with a concise explanation about each animal presented at the end of the book. Jenkins style and expertise in detail provides an outstanding avenue for critical thinking about other animals and sizes. Students can easily wonder and predict sizes of other animals. Actual Size is a fascinating book, whether used as a tool in the classroom or enjoyed for pleasure reading.
Review excerpts accessed from www.titlewave.com.
Review Excerpts
Dona Rattertree with School Library Journal states, "Mixing deceptive simplicity with absolute clarity, this beautiful book is an enticing way to introduce children to the glorious diversity of our natural world, or to illustrate to budding scientists the importance of comparison, measurement, observation, and record keeping. A thoroughly engaging read-aloud and a must-have for any collection" (2004).
Booklist reports, "The resulting juxtapositions will leave children marveling at one species' daintiness, then shuddering as they mentally sketch in the unseen portions of more formidable beasts. Jenkins' artwork is gorgeous (a gatefold of a frog in midleap is particularly memorable), and, at the end of the book, thumbnail images of the featured animals paired with information about habitat and behavior put the piquant visuals into a broader context. An unusual, unusually effective tool for connecting children to nature's astonishing variety" (2004).
Connections
Actual Size by Steve Jenkins is a perfect book for a study of animals or in a comparison of mathematical measurement.
"Wow, I love this book!" --Jailene (first grader)
"The gorilla's hand is so much bigger than mine." --Osbaldo (first grader)
"The spider scares me. It's so big." --Maria (first grader)
"The frog is longer than my baby sister." --Monica (second grader)
Jenkins, Steve. 2004. Actual Size. Boston: Houghton Mifflin.
ISBN: 0-618-37594-5
Summary
Author, Steve Jenkins presents the size of animals or parts of those animals in collage illustrations. Weight and length/height is included on each page. Information about each animal is also provided at the end of the book.
Critical Analysis
Award winning author/illustrator Steve Jenkins has presented an exceptional nonfiction book in Actual Size.
Jenkins introduces sizes and facts about different animals in accurate detail. The most fascinating part of the book is made obvious in the illustrations. Each illustration is drawn to scale. Jenkins presents the animal where only part of the animal may fit on each page. For example, the great white shark page includes only five full teeth and the top of the mouth. On another page, the pygmy mouse lemur is seen in actual size: 2 1/2 inches tall.
The book is organized well, with a logical and coherent layout. Some pages present two animals so the reader can compare sizes. The presentation of animals is presented in alternating pattern of small and big. The animals' sizes become more concrete through Jenkins carefully planned and detailed comparisons.
Jenkins' illustrations help to make this book inviting for even the youngest of readers. The illustrations are collages of cut and torn paper. The colors of the papers are so creative the texture and details of the animals' covering are made obvious. For example, the Siberian tiger's whiskers and the fuzz of the fur are apparent in the illustration. Also, Jenkins uses font size to his advantage. The font is set as a small Futura type so as to keep the focus on the illustration. The animals' name are set in a bold font to help distinguish the animal on each page.
Jenkins' writing is simple and clear with a concise explanation about each animal presented at the end of the book. Jenkins style and expertise in detail provides an outstanding avenue for critical thinking about other animals and sizes. Students can easily wonder and predict sizes of other animals. Actual Size is a fascinating book, whether used as a tool in the classroom or enjoyed for pleasure reading.
Review excerpts accessed from www.titlewave.com.
Review Excerpts
Dona Rattertree with School Library Journal states, "Mixing deceptive simplicity with absolute clarity, this beautiful book is an enticing way to introduce children to the glorious diversity of our natural world, or to illustrate to budding scientists the importance of comparison, measurement, observation, and record keeping. A thoroughly engaging read-aloud and a must-have for any collection" (2004).
Booklist reports, "The resulting juxtapositions will leave children marveling at one species' daintiness, then shuddering as they mentally sketch in the unseen portions of more formidable beasts. Jenkins' artwork is gorgeous (a gatefold of a frog in midleap is particularly memorable), and, at the end of the book, thumbnail images of the featured animals paired with information about habitat and behavior put the piquant visuals into a broader context. An unusual, unusually effective tool for connecting children to nature's astonishing variety" (2004).
Connections
Actual Size by Steve Jenkins is a perfect book for a study of animals or in a comparison of mathematical measurement.
"Wow, I love this book!" --Jailene (first grader)
"The gorilla's hand is so much bigger than mine." --Osbaldo (first grader)
"The spider scares me. It's so big." --Maria (first grader)
"The frog is longer than my baby sister." --Monica (second grader)
Saturday, October 13, 2007
An American Plague: The True and Terrifying Story of the Yellow Fever Epidemic Plague of 1793 by JIm Murphy
Bibliography
Murphy, Jim. 2003. An American Plague: The True and Terrifying Story of the Yellow Fever Epidemic of 1793. New York: Clarion Books.
ISBN: 0-395-77608-2
Summary
A true account of the yellow fever epidemic in Philadelphia, during 1793, leaving thousands dead.
Critical Analysis
Non-fiction and fiction author, Jim Murphy tells the interesting, true story of the Yellow Fever epidemic in Philadelphia during 1793 in his book: An American Plague: The True and Terrifying Story of the Yellow Fever Epidemic of 1793.
Murphy does an excellent job of providing accurate information of this epidemic story. He uses information found in letters, journals, newspapers, and other documents to support the story. At the beginning of chapters, excerpts of actual time-period newspapers are included. Additionally, illustrations through out the book support the story. At the end of the book, Murphy includes a list of all sources consulted in the making of this book. The sources are listed in categories, making it very user-friendly.
The organization of An American Plague is written sequentially. The epidemic occurs in 1793, over the course of several months. Murphy uses dates and times, through out the story to document the events. This also helps make the story easy to follow. In fact, each chapter begins with a specific date.
The design of the story provides support for the time period. The simple illustrations are basic in black and white. The use of black and white is appropriate for a story of this time period. The newspaper excerpts appropriately complement the text. The reader can feel like they are reading the newspaper of 1793. The author does mentions very few actual visual documents actually exist from this event in American history. The images he does include replicate, to the best extent they can, the actual events, providing natural support to the text.
Murphy has told a true story that is interesting and intriguing. Murphy has taken a part of American history and presented in a way that is clear, precise, and inviting to read. An American Plague: The True and Terrifying Story of the Yellow Fever Epidemic of 1793 is an award book in several categories, including the Robert F. Sibert Award and the Orbis Pictus Award. Murphy's story well-deserving of the many awards, and should be enjoyed by young and old.
Review Excerpts
Kirkus Review states, "Powerful, evocative prose carries along the compelling subject matter. Even as the narrative places readers in the moment with quotations, the design aids and abets this, beginning each chapter with reproductions from contemporary newspapers and other materials, as well as placing period illustrations appropriately throughout the text" (2003).
Horn Book reports, "Quoting diverse voices, from private diaries to published accounts, Murphy fills in the picture of a devastated town . . . . Everywhere, Murphy is attentive to telling detail; he offers representative images in the illustrations, from black-and-white portraits of figures in the narrative to plague scenes themselves, often taken from (clearly labeled) European settings when the visual record didn't exist for Philadelphia" (2003).
Review excerpts accessed from http://www.titlewave.com/
Connections
Other non-fiction stories by Jim Murphy:
The Great Fire
Blizzard!
A Young Patriot: The American Revolution as Experienced by One Boy
The Boys' War
The Long Road to Gettysburg
Inside the Alamo
Across America on an Emigrant Train
Pick and Shovel Poet: The Journeys of Pascal D'Angelo
Gone A-Whaling: The Lure of the Sea and the Hunt of the Great Whale
"This is a really good story. Can I check it out after you are finished?"--Jazmyn (4th grader)
Murphy, Jim. 2003. An American Plague: The True and Terrifying Story of the Yellow Fever Epidemic of 1793. New York: Clarion Books.
ISBN: 0-395-77608-2
Summary
A true account of the yellow fever epidemic in Philadelphia, during 1793, leaving thousands dead.
Critical Analysis
Non-fiction and fiction author, Jim Murphy tells the interesting, true story of the Yellow Fever epidemic in Philadelphia during 1793 in his book: An American Plague: The True and Terrifying Story of the Yellow Fever Epidemic of 1793.
Murphy does an excellent job of providing accurate information of this epidemic story. He uses information found in letters, journals, newspapers, and other documents to support the story. At the beginning of chapters, excerpts of actual time-period newspapers are included. Additionally, illustrations through out the book support the story. At the end of the book, Murphy includes a list of all sources consulted in the making of this book. The sources are listed in categories, making it very user-friendly.
The organization of An American Plague is written sequentially. The epidemic occurs in 1793, over the course of several months. Murphy uses dates and times, through out the story to document the events. This also helps make the story easy to follow. In fact, each chapter begins with a specific date.
The design of the story provides support for the time period. The simple illustrations are basic in black and white. The use of black and white is appropriate for a story of this time period. The newspaper excerpts appropriately complement the text. The reader can feel like they are reading the newspaper of 1793. The author does mentions very few actual visual documents actually exist from this event in American history. The images he does include replicate, to the best extent they can, the actual events, providing natural support to the text.
Murphy has told a true story that is interesting and intriguing. Murphy has taken a part of American history and presented in a way that is clear, precise, and inviting to read. An American Plague: The True and Terrifying Story of the Yellow Fever Epidemic of 1793 is an award book in several categories, including the Robert F. Sibert Award and the Orbis Pictus Award. Murphy's story well-deserving of the many awards, and should be enjoyed by young and old.
Review Excerpts
Kirkus Review states, "Powerful, evocative prose carries along the compelling subject matter. Even as the narrative places readers in the moment with quotations, the design aids and abets this, beginning each chapter with reproductions from contemporary newspapers and other materials, as well as placing period illustrations appropriately throughout the text" (2003).
Horn Book reports, "Quoting diverse voices, from private diaries to published accounts, Murphy fills in the picture of a devastated town . . . . Everywhere, Murphy is attentive to telling detail; he offers representative images in the illustrations, from black-and-white portraits of figures in the narrative to plague scenes themselves, often taken from (clearly labeled) European settings when the visual record didn't exist for Philadelphia" (2003).
Review excerpts accessed from http://www.titlewave.com/
Connections
Other non-fiction stories by Jim Murphy:
The Great Fire
Blizzard!
A Young Patriot: The American Revolution as Experienced by One Boy
The Boys' War
The Long Road to Gettysburg
Inside the Alamo
Across America on an Emigrant Train
Pick and Shovel Poet: The Journeys of Pascal D'Angelo
Gone A-Whaling: The Lure of the Sea and the Hunt of the Great Whale
"This is a really good story. Can I check it out after you are finished?"--Jazmyn (4th grader)
Sunday, October 7, 2007
Toasting Marshmallows: Camping Poems by Kristine O'Connell George
Bibliography
George, Kristine O'Connell. 2001. Toasting Marshmallows: Camping Poems. Ill.: Kate Kiesler. New York: Houghton Mifflin.
ISBN: 0-618-04597-x
Summary
Toasting Marshmallows: Camping Poems is a collection of thirty poems detailing the fun and adventure of camping.
Critical Analysis
Texas Bluebonnet Award Nominee, Toasting Marshmallows: Camping Poems, is a fun and entertaining collection of poetry by Kristine O'Connell George. George's camping poems, as seen through the eyes of a child, are dynamic and engaging. Her use of detail and quality of descriptions in her poems help conjure images in a reader's mind. The experienced camper can make connections, while the non-camper can get a feel for the adventure of camping through the timelessness of her poems.
George uses a variety of techniques to keep her collection interesting. The shape poems, "Eavesdropping", "Tent", and "Storm" bring much delight. "Two Voices in a Tent at Night" is perfect for a choral reading, while other free voice poems, like "Campfire", "Forest Walk" and "Flashlight" offer entertainment through strong imagery. All the senses are brought to life in her poems.
George's collection of poems are organized superbly--in the order of events of a real camping trip. Illustrator, Kate Kiesler supports the collection through her excellent illustrations. The details of each painting bring the poems to life.
Grab your camping gear, light a campfire, and pitch your tent. . . it's time for some Toasting Marshmallows, the perfect book to make an enjoyable night.
Review Excerpts
Luann Toth with School Library Journal explains, "The poems are varied and inventive, replete with marvelous images and universal truths. There's even a selection devoted to the "Mosquito Song." Each one is accompanied by a well-executed and evocative acrylic painting" (2001) .
Publisher's Weekly reports, "Like their previous collaborations, The Great Frog Race and Old Elm Speaks, this volume by George and Kiesler is as delicious as a toasted marshmallow treat. George's poems are well crafted, varied and easily accessible. . . .Though Kiesler's human figures are sometimes wooden, she suffuses her acrylic landscapes with light filtered through leaves. . . . Yet George's poems shine, the images clear and startling" (2001).
Reviews accessed from http://www.titlewave.com/
Connections
Other books by Kristine O'Connell George:
Fold Me a Poem
The Great Frog Race and Other Poems
Hummingbird Nest: A Journal of Poems
Little Dog and Duncan: Poems
Little Dog Poems
Old Elm Speaks: Tree Poems
Swimming Upstream: Middle School Poems
George, Kristine O'Connell. 2001. Toasting Marshmallows: Camping Poems. Ill.: Kate Kiesler. New York: Houghton Mifflin.
ISBN: 0-618-04597-x
Summary
Toasting Marshmallows: Camping Poems is a collection of thirty poems detailing the fun and adventure of camping.
Critical Analysis
Texas Bluebonnet Award Nominee, Toasting Marshmallows: Camping Poems, is a fun and entertaining collection of poetry by Kristine O'Connell George. George's camping poems, as seen through the eyes of a child, are dynamic and engaging. Her use of detail and quality of descriptions in her poems help conjure images in a reader's mind. The experienced camper can make connections, while the non-camper can get a feel for the adventure of camping through the timelessness of her poems.
George uses a variety of techniques to keep her collection interesting. The shape poems, "Eavesdropping", "Tent", and "Storm" bring much delight. "Two Voices in a Tent at Night" is perfect for a choral reading, while other free voice poems, like "Campfire", "Forest Walk" and "Flashlight" offer entertainment through strong imagery. All the senses are brought to life in her poems.
George's collection of poems are organized superbly--in the order of events of a real camping trip. Illustrator, Kate Kiesler supports the collection through her excellent illustrations. The details of each painting bring the poems to life.
Grab your camping gear, light a campfire, and pitch your tent. . . it's time for some Toasting Marshmallows, the perfect book to make an enjoyable night.
Review Excerpts
Luann Toth with School Library Journal explains, "The poems are varied and inventive, replete with marvelous images and universal truths. There's even a selection devoted to the "Mosquito Song." Each one is accompanied by a well-executed and evocative acrylic painting" (2001) .
Publisher's Weekly reports, "Like their previous collaborations, The Great Frog Race and Old Elm Speaks, this volume by George and Kiesler is as delicious as a toasted marshmallow treat. George's poems are well crafted, varied and easily accessible. . . .Though Kiesler's human figures are sometimes wooden, she suffuses her acrylic landscapes with light filtered through leaves. . . . Yet George's poems shine, the images clear and startling" (2001).
Reviews accessed from http://www.titlewave.com/
Connections
Other books by Kristine O'Connell George:
Fold Me a Poem
The Great Frog Race and Other Poems
Hummingbird Nest: A Journal of Poems
Little Dog and Duncan: Poems
Little Dog Poems
Old Elm Speaks: Tree Poems
Swimming Upstream: Middle School Poems
Insectlopedia: Poems and Paintings by Douglas Florian
Bibliography
Florian, Douglas. 1998. Insectlopedia: Poems and Paintings. San Diego: Harcourt Brace.
ISBN: 0-15-201306-7
Summary
In Insectlopedia, Florian presents a selection of poems about a variety of insects, such as inchworm, mayfly, termites, caterpillar, and mosquito.
Critical Analysis
Poet, Douglas Florian writes an entertaining and interesting collection of poems about insects in his book, Insectlopedia. His poems are creative and imaginative, while portraying insects realistically. For example, in the poem, The Dragonfly, Florian writes, "Behold my bold enormous eyes." Also, Florian's poems provide factual information about the insects, making his book timeless and universal.
Florian's poems are factual and entertaining. He does an excellent job of presenting a variety of poems. For example, some of his poems are free verse, while others have strong rhythm and rhyme. There are even a few shape poems that are indicative of that insect. Readers can create images in their mind from Florian's use of strong descriptive words. Another creative technique Florian uses is assonance, for lunch I munch, (9) and consonance, They're hip. They hop, (30).
Insectlopedia is well organized and beautifully illustrated. Florian's watercolor illustrations are a perfect complement to each poem, making this book inviting to readers of all ages.
In the twenty-one insect poem collection, Insectlopedia, outshines many other sources of information about insects. Florian's collection will hook children into being fascinated by the world of insects, as well as encourage a love of poetry.
Review Excerpts
Carolyn Angus with School Library Journal reports, "The verse form is as varied as the creatures presented. Shaped or pattern poems about the inchworm, whirligig beetles, and mound-building termites work particularly well. The words are arranged in pleasing patterns and the rhythms fit the characteristics of the subjects. The design adds to the overall appeal. Each selection is given its own page, allowing for the use of large type and plenty of glossy white space, and paired with a full-page watercolor with a neat border of white. These portraits build on the imaginatively integrated realistic and anthropomorphic images created in the text. There are other books of poetry about insects and lots of collections of humorous verses about animals but none match Insectlopedia" (1998).
Kirkus Review announces, "Some of the entries rely on clever wordplay, while others are examples of concrete poetry; the text takes on the hump of the inchworm or the spiral movements of the whirligig beetle. The watercolor illustrations, abstract and stylized, achieve a comic effect by incorporating collage elements reminiscent of an entomologists field notes (1998).
Review excerpts accessed from http://www.titlewave.com/
Connections
Florian's poems are so lively and entertaining, they would make a great poetry study:
Autumnblings: Poems and Paintings
Beast Feast: Poems and Paintings
Bing Bang Bong: Poems and Drawings
Bow Wow Meow Meow, It's Rhyming Cats and Dogs
Handsprings: Poems and Paintings
Comets, Stars, the Moon, and Mars: Space Poems and Paintings
In the Swim: Poems and Paintings
Florian, Douglas. 1998. Insectlopedia: Poems and Paintings. San Diego: Harcourt Brace.
ISBN: 0-15-201306-7
Summary
In Insectlopedia, Florian presents a selection of poems about a variety of insects, such as inchworm, mayfly, termites, caterpillar, and mosquito.
Critical Analysis
Poet, Douglas Florian writes an entertaining and interesting collection of poems about insects in his book, Insectlopedia. His poems are creative and imaginative, while portraying insects realistically. For example, in the poem, The Dragonfly, Florian writes, "Behold my bold enormous eyes." Also, Florian's poems provide factual information about the insects, making his book timeless and universal.
Florian's poems are factual and entertaining. He does an excellent job of presenting a variety of poems. For example, some of his poems are free verse, while others have strong rhythm and rhyme. There are even a few shape poems that are indicative of that insect. Readers can create images in their mind from Florian's use of strong descriptive words. Another creative technique Florian uses is assonance, for lunch I munch, (9) and consonance, They're hip. They hop, (30).
Insectlopedia is well organized and beautifully illustrated. Florian's watercolor illustrations are a perfect complement to each poem, making this book inviting to readers of all ages.
In the twenty-one insect poem collection, Insectlopedia, outshines many other sources of information about insects. Florian's collection will hook children into being fascinated by the world of insects, as well as encourage a love of poetry.
Review Excerpts
Carolyn Angus with School Library Journal reports, "The verse form is as varied as the creatures presented. Shaped or pattern poems about the inchworm, whirligig beetles, and mound-building termites work particularly well. The words are arranged in pleasing patterns and the rhythms fit the characteristics of the subjects. The design adds to the overall appeal. Each selection is given its own page, allowing for the use of large type and plenty of glossy white space, and paired with a full-page watercolor with a neat border of white. These portraits build on the imaginatively integrated realistic and anthropomorphic images created in the text. There are other books of poetry about insects and lots of collections of humorous verses about animals but none match Insectlopedia" (1998).
Kirkus Review announces, "Some of the entries rely on clever wordplay, while others are examples of concrete poetry; the text takes on the hump of the inchworm or the spiral movements of the whirligig beetle. The watercolor illustrations, abstract and stylized, achieve a comic effect by incorporating collage elements reminiscent of an entomologists field notes (1998).
Review excerpts accessed from http://www.titlewave.com/
Connections
Florian's poems are so lively and entertaining, they would make a great poetry study:
Autumnblings: Poems and Paintings
Beast Feast: Poems and Paintings
Bing Bang Bong: Poems and Drawings
Bow Wow Meow Meow, It's Rhyming Cats and Dogs
Handsprings: Poems and Paintings
Comets, Stars, the Moon, and Mars: Space Poems and Paintings
In the Swim: Poems and Paintings
Monday, October 1, 2007
Out of the Dust by Karen Hesse
Bibliography
Hesse, Karen. 1997. Out of the Dust. New York: Scholastic Press.
ISBN: 0-590-36080-9
Summary
The novel is written in poetic form about fifteen year old Billie Jo and the hardships she endures growing up on a farm during the Depression and the dust bowl period.
Critical Analysis
Out of the Dust by Karen Hesse received the John Newbery Award in 1998. An eloquently written novel, written completely in free verse, is an exceptional story of a young girl's life during the dust bowl years in Oklahoma.
Hesse develops the main character, Billie Jo, well through her descriptive voice. Billie Jo is stubborn, loving, strong, but yet yearning for forgiveness and contentment. The setting is also developed well through Hesse's excellent use of imagery.
Hesse uses a variety of poetic elements to express her story. The dust scenes are so descriptive a reader almost feels as if they are in the dust storm. For example, through out the novel there are several poems, like "Blankets of Black" or "Hope Smothered" that allow the reader to understand the the dust storm. The technical and artistic qualities of Hesse's poetic verse make an excellent historical fiction story. A good example of using line breaks well can be found in the poem, "The Accident." Another poem, "The Dream" is formed by distinctive line spacing. The spacing allows for pauses between lines and a encourages the reader to read slowly. While the use of puns, word plays and humor are inappropriate for this type of story, the story is so well written, it is enjoyable for young adults to adults.
Additionally, the first person viewpoint of Hesse's story makes, this an excellent story to be enjoyed in an audio version format. Narrator, Marika Mashburn, does an outstanding job of sounding like a young Oklahoma girl living in the 1930's.
Out of the Dust is an excellent historical fiction story. Read it, listen to it--just don't miss it.
Review Excerpts
Book Report announces, "Sparse, poignant, painful, and touching, Out of the Dust evokes photographic-clear images of the Dust Bowl and the Depression, told from the perspective of 13-year-old Billie Jo. . . . While billed as a novel and clearly a narrative, the entire book is formatted in prose-like free verse poetry structure, which enhances the accessibility, the clarity, and haunting nature of its storyline" (1997).
Booklist reports, "The story is bleak, but Hesse's writing transcends the gloom and transforms it into a powerfully compelling tale of a girl with enormous strength, courage, and love. The entire novel is written in very readable blank verse, a superb choice for bringing out the exquisite agony and delight to be found in such a difficult period lived by such a vibrant character. It also spares the reader the trouble of wading through pages of distressing text, distilling all the experiences into brief, acutely observed phrases" (1997).
Reviews accessed at http://www.titlewave.com/
Connections
Other stories set during the depression era:
Treasures in the Dust by Tracey Porter
Bud, Not Buddy by Christopher Paul Curtis
Dust to Eat: Drought and Depression in the 1930's by Michael Cooper
The Dust Bowl by Therese DeAngelis
Other stories by Karen Hesse:
Wish on a Unicorn
Letters from Rifka
Poppy's Chair
Lester's Dog
Sable
Phoenix Rising
Aleutian Sparrow
Hesse, Karen. 1997. Out of the Dust. New York: Scholastic Press.
ISBN: 0-590-36080-9
Summary
The novel is written in poetic form about fifteen year old Billie Jo and the hardships she endures growing up on a farm during the Depression and the dust bowl period.
Critical Analysis
Out of the Dust by Karen Hesse received the John Newbery Award in 1998. An eloquently written novel, written completely in free verse, is an exceptional story of a young girl's life during the dust bowl years in Oklahoma.
Hesse develops the main character, Billie Jo, well through her descriptive voice. Billie Jo is stubborn, loving, strong, but yet yearning for forgiveness and contentment. The setting is also developed well through Hesse's excellent use of imagery.
Hesse uses a variety of poetic elements to express her story. The dust scenes are so descriptive a reader almost feels as if they are in the dust storm. For example, through out the novel there are several poems, like "Blankets of Black" or "Hope Smothered" that allow the reader to understand the the dust storm. The technical and artistic qualities of Hesse's poetic verse make an excellent historical fiction story. A good example of using line breaks well can be found in the poem, "The Accident." Another poem, "The Dream" is formed by distinctive line spacing. The spacing allows for pauses between lines and a encourages the reader to read slowly. While the use of puns, word plays and humor are inappropriate for this type of story, the story is so well written, it is enjoyable for young adults to adults.
Additionally, the first person viewpoint of Hesse's story makes, this an excellent story to be enjoyed in an audio version format. Narrator, Marika Mashburn, does an outstanding job of sounding like a young Oklahoma girl living in the 1930's.
Out of the Dust is an excellent historical fiction story. Read it, listen to it--just don't miss it.
Review Excerpts
Book Report announces, "Sparse, poignant, painful, and touching, Out of the Dust evokes photographic-clear images of the Dust Bowl and the Depression, told from the perspective of 13-year-old Billie Jo. . . . While billed as a novel and clearly a narrative, the entire book is formatted in prose-like free verse poetry structure, which enhances the accessibility, the clarity, and haunting nature of its storyline" (1997).
Booklist reports, "The story is bleak, but Hesse's writing transcends the gloom and transforms it into a powerfully compelling tale of a girl with enormous strength, courage, and love. The entire novel is written in very readable blank verse, a superb choice for bringing out the exquisite agony and delight to be found in such a difficult period lived by such a vibrant character. It also spares the reader the trouble of wading through pages of distressing text, distilling all the experiences into brief, acutely observed phrases" (1997).
Reviews accessed at http://www.titlewave.com/
Connections
Other stories set during the depression era:
Treasures in the Dust by Tracey Porter
Bud, Not Buddy by Christopher Paul Curtis
Dust to Eat: Drought and Depression in the 1930's by Michael Cooper
The Dust Bowl by Therese DeAngelis
Other stories by Karen Hesse:
Wish on a Unicorn
Letters from Rifka
Poppy's Chair
Lester's Dog
Sable
Phoenix Rising
Aleutian Sparrow
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