SHIP BREAKER A NOVEL BY PAOLO BACIGALUPI

TWU course
Book Review

Book Review: SHIP BREAKER A NOVEL BY PAOLO BACIGALUPI
                         
1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Bacigalupi, Paolo. 2010.SHIP BREAKER. New York, NY: Little Brown and Company. ISBN 978-0-316-05621-2

2. PLOT SUMMARY
"In a futuristic world, teen aged Nailer scavenges cooper wiring from grounded oil tankers for a living, but when he finds a beached clipper ship with a girl in the wreckage, he has to decide if he should strip the ship for its wealth or rescue the girl."

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Paolo Bacigalupi's "Ship Breaker" is a science fiction story written for a young adult audience. Ship Breaker follows the story of Nailer (the main character, a teenage boy, who works the light crew), an impoverished (make poor or weak) child laborer who lives in a world where oil has all but run out. Nailer's life changes when he and Pima (friend) rescues Nita, the daughter of a rich, powerful family.
Nita is trapped on a modern clipper ship washed up on the beach from a recent hurricane. Nailer faces the most important decision of his life: Strip the ship for all its worth or rescue its lone survivor, a beautiful and wealthy girl who could lead him to a better life.

My favorite quote from Ship Breaker.
"It was just his mind playing tricks, fantasizing that the liquid all around him was actually water. But oil was different. It didn't support a body, no matter how much you wished. It just swallowed you up." Ship Breaker, p.24

Bacigalupi explores poverty, class differences, and the conflict between loyalty and survival.     

4.REVIEW EXCERPT(S
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: "Grade 7 Up--A fast-paced postapolyptic adventure set on the American Gulf Coast. Nailer works light crew; his dirty, dangerous job is to crawl deep into the wrecks of the ancient oil tankers that line the beach, scavenging copper wire and turning it over to his crew boss. After a brutal hurricane passes over, Nailer and his friend Pima stumble upon the wreck of a luxurious clipper ship. It's filled with valuable goods--a "Lucky Strike" that could make them rich, if only they can find a safe way to cash it in. Amid the wreckage, a girl barely clings to life. If they help her, she tells them, she can show them a world of privilege that they never known. But can they trust her? And if so, can they keep the girl safe from Nailer's drug--addicted father? Exciting and sometimes violent, this book will appear to older fans of Scott Westerfeld's "Uglies" series (S&S) and similar action--oriented science fiction.

BOOKLIST: "This YA debut by Bacigalupi, a rising star in adult science fiction, presents a dystopian future like so many YA sf novels. What is common, though, is that although Bacigalupi's future earth is brilliantly imagined and its genesis anchored in contemporary issues, it is secondary to the memorable characters. In a world in which society has stratified, fossil fuels have been consumed, and the seas have risen and drowned coastal cities, Nailer, 17, scavenges beached tankers for scrap metals on the Gulf Coast. Everyday, he tries to "make quota" and avoid his violent, drug-addicted father. After he discovers a modern clipper ship washed up on the beach, Nailer thinks his fortune is made, but then he discovers a survivor trapped in the wreckage--the "swank" daughter of a shipping company owner. Should he slit the girl's throat and sell her for parts or take a chance and help her? Clearly respecting his audience, Bacigalupi skillfully integrates his world building into the compelling narrative, threading the back story into the pulsing action. The characters are layered and complex, and their almost unthinkable actions and choices seem totally credible. Vivid, brutal, and thematically rich, this captivating title is sure to win teen fans for the award-winning Bacigalupi.

5. CONNECTIONS
Awards: Michael L. Printz Award for Excellence in Young Adult Literature and National Book Award Finalist.
*Invite children to research the dystopian society. Discuss how the dystopian society is similar and different.
*Other books that encourage young men to do the right or wrong thing to get what they want:
Bacigalupi, Paolo. THE DROWNED CITIES. ISBN-10: 0316056243. ISBN-13: 978-0316056243
Bacigalupi, Paolo. THE WINDUP GIRL. ISBN-10: 1597801584. ISBN-13: 978-1597801584
Roth, Veronica. DIVERGENT (Book 1). ISBN-10: 0062024035. ISBN-13: 978-0062024039

Book Review: Calamity Jack by: Shannon and Dean Hale Illustrated by Nathan Hale

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Book Review

CALAMITY JACK by: Shannon and Dean Hale Illustrated Nathan Hale


1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Hale, Shannon. 2010. CALAMITY JACK. Ill. by Nathan Hale. New York: Bloomsbury.
ISBN 978-1-59990-373-6

2. PLOT SUMMARY
In this graphic novel, Jack a born schemer, plotter, planner, trickster, swindler and thief. He climbs a magical beanstalk in the hope of exacting justice from a mean giant and gaining a fortune for his widowed mother, aided by some friends.   

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Shannon Hale and Dean Hale writes a fairytale graphic novel story of "CALAMITY JACK. " This fairytale graphic novel retells the story of Jack and the Beanstalk. The main characters (Jack, Rapunzel, Freddie, and Prudence are involved in a war with a gigantic beanstalk.

Part 1: THE BEANSTALK BONANZA. In this section, Jack tells the story of how he became the criminal mastermind. Jack retells several stories of his schemes starting with his birth. From the day of his birth, Jack decides he is a criminal mastermind. He shows how smart he is by planning several take overs of other peoples property or belongings.   

Part 2: JACK THE GIANT KILLER. In this section, Jack the so called Killer meets up with Rapunzel (the real criminal mastermind). Rapunzel and Jack are together as husband and wife riding the iron horse. Pages 40-75 shows Rapunzel using her long red braids as a weapon. A weapon so deadly it destroys everyone and everything in sight.  

Part 3: TO CATCH AN ANT. In this section, all of Jack's gang continue fighting for their gang. At the end, Jack and Rapunzel sail off together.     

4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
THE HORN BOOK: "The swashbuckling plot shines in the graphic-novel format... Easily as strong as the first entry, this steampunk-flavored fairy tale will appeal to boy-, girl-, reluctant-and eager readers alike."

KIRKUS: "This fantastic yarn has something for everyone readers will relish this gleeful mix of fairy tale adventure and romance."

5. CONNECTIONS
*Activities
Have students write a graphic novel about the future. Do not use to many words but just enough to inform the reader. Your illustrations should follow the text. The graphic novel should end by telling a story.

*Books
Hale, Dean. RAPUNZEL'S REVENGE. ISBN 159990070X
Kibuishi, Kazu. AMULET BOOK 1. ISBN 0439846811

UNDER THE BLOOD-RED SUN, by Graham Salisbury

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Book Review: UNDER THE BLOOD-RED SUN, by Graham Salisbury

1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Salisbury, Graham. 1994. UNDER THE BLOOD-RED SUN: Delacorte:New York.
ISBN 0-385-32099-X

2. PLOT SUMMARY
"UNDER THE BLOOD-RED SUN," is an action packed novel that focuses on the Japanese American perspective during World War II.

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
This historical fiction novel "Under The Blood-Red Sun," is a story about the attack on Pearl Harbor. The story is told from Tomi during a game of baseball. Tomi tells the story of what he witnesses as the Japanese military destroys all of Pearl Harbor and its destroyers. Starting on an early Sunday morning, the Rats (Tomi's baseball team) watch from the baseball field as they play a game of baseball. The Japanese bombers fly into Pearl Harbor and began destroying Pearl Harbor.  
       
4. REVIEW EXCERPTS
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY: Torn between his love of all things American and the traditional ways of his parents and grandparents, a young Japanese American comes of age during the political upheavel of WWII. Ages 10-up.

BOOKLIST: Salisbury captures the dilemma of the Japanese who lived in Hawaii during World War II through the narrator, Tomi, born in Hawaii, and his Japanese parents, who had escaped the poverty of Japan, only to find themselves enmeshed in a war they are unprepared to fight.

5. CONNECTIONS
*Activities*
Research Pearl Harbor, December 7, 1941 try to locate as many pictures as possible of battleship row.
Explain why the Japanese caught America off guard and why the attack on Pearl Harbor was successful.
*Other engaging books*
Napoli Jo Donna. THREE DAYS. ISBN-10: 0142500259
Gidwitz, Adam. A TALE DARK AND GRIMM. ISBN-10: 0142419672

Turtle in Paradise by Jennifer L. Holm

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Book Review: Turtle in Paradise by Jennifer L. Holm

1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Holm L. Jennifer. 2010. TURTLE IN PARADISE. Random House: New York.
ISBN 978-0-375-83688-6

2. PLOT SUMMARY
The story takes place in Key West, Florida during the Great Depression. "Turtle," the eleven-year old moves in with family because her mother takes a job as a housekeeper. Turtle finds out later the woman her mother works for doesn't like kids. Turtle moves to Key West where she will live with relatives until her mother sends for her.  

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
"Turtle in Paradise," is a story about an eleven year old girl who lives life from place to place. She is already use to a life of ups and downs but continues to move on. The front cover of "Turtle in Paradise," shows a picture of a girl standing in front of an ocean. She is holding a shell that is shaped like a turtle. The ocean is light blue and green with a white sand beach. This is what "Turtle," sees as she thinks about her past life. Turtle is free and looking at paradise.  

 4. REVIEW EXCERPTS
KIRKUS REVIEW: "Sweet, funny and superb."

BOOKLIST: "Turtle is just the right mixture of knowingness and hope; the plot is a hilarious blend of family dramas seasoned with a dollop of adventure."

AWARDS
2011 Newbery Honor Book
A Kirkus Reviews Best Children's Book of 2010
An ALA Notable Book
The Golden Kite Award

5. CONNECTIONS
*Activities
Have children research Key West, Florida in 1935. What types of jobs were available during the Great Depression.

*Books
Garcia-Williams Rita. ONE CRAZY SUMMER. ISBN 978-0-06-076088-5
Draper M. Sharon. OUT OF MY MIND. ISBN-10: 1416971718
Ibbotson, Eva. JOURNEY TO THE RIVER SEA. ISBN-10: 0142501840

Book Review: HEART AND SOUL; The Story of America and African Americans by Kadir Nelson

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Book Review: HEART AND SOUL; The Story of America and African Americans
                         by Kadir Nelson

1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Nelson, Kadir. 2011. HEART AND SOUL; The Story of America and African Americans. New York, NY: HarperCollins Publishers. ISBN 978-0-06-173074-0

2. PLOT SUMMARY
HEART AND SOUL, is a story about the struggles of America and African Americans. Readers will enjoy twelve stories of  beautifully illustrated pictures of America and African Americans torn apart by education, law, and wealth.

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
The book reveals Kadir Nelson's passion for African Americans who struggled for equal rights. Nelson illustrations are attractive and complement the story line. The illustrations look like they were painted with oils with a small text of information at the bottom. The illustrations are the perfect touch to make this book a good read. There are 108 pages to view. 

There is a timeline and bibliography along with dates and descriptions from 1565 to January 2009.   

 4. REVIEW EXCERPTS
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: "Provocative and powerful, this book offers a much-needed perspective for individuals of all ages seeking to understand America's past and present"

HORN REVIEW: "Nelson effectively creates a voice that is at once singular and representative. A tour de force in the career of an author/artist who continues to outdo himself.

5. CONNECTIONS
Invite children to make a chart of the inventions and discoveries made by African-Americans. Many of them are listed on pages 79-80, but you can find others by researching. Choose one of these inventions or discoveries and learn more about the inventor and the process he or she followed. What was the impact of this invention on other people? Why is it important to know about these inventors?

Other books  

Evans, Shane W. UNDERGROUND: FINDING THE LIGHT TO FREEDOM.
ISBN-10: 1596435380

Gantos, Jack. DEAD END IN NORVELT. ISBN-10: 0374379939

Greenfield, Eloise. THE GREAT MIGRATION: JOURNEY TO THE NORTH.
ISBN-10 0061259217

Book Review: THE LINCOLNS: A SCRAPBOOK LOOK AT ABRAHAM AND MARY by Candace Fleming

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Book review: THE LINCOLNS: A SCRAPBOOK LOOK AT ABRAHAM AND MARY
                        by Candace Fleming


1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Fleming, Candace. 2008. THE LINCOLNS: A SCRAPBOOK LOOK AT ABRAHAM AND MARY.
New York, NY: Random House. ISBN 978-0-375-93618-0

2. PLOT SUMMARY
"THE LINCOLNS," is a scrapbook of Abraham and Mary Lincoln. This scrapbook is filled with black and white photographs and important information along with dates.  

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Fleming illustrates Abraham and Mary Lincoln's life by putting together a scrapbook of information, notes, photographs, pictures, and web sites. There is a table of contents listing eight chapters and an introduction. This scrapbook has a section, "THE LINCOLN YEARS," in bold italicized text with dates starting from 1809 to 1882. This scrapbook is not easy on the mind, but it is full of a lot of information.    

4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: "Using her scrapbook approach, Fleming lays out the answer in a biography that gives equal emphasis to Abraham and Mary Lincoln for an insightful portrait of their lives. Her scholarship over five years pays off with a rich account that is personal and concrete. She recounts Mary's early life as a privileged-but motherless-child, her ambitions for her husband, and her role as "first lady" (a term originally coined for her). Large and small details are juxtaposed with specifics about Lincoln and broadened by Mary's significance.

5. CONNECTIONS
*Other informational books
Fleming, Candace. BEN FRANKLIN'S ALMANAC: BEING A TRUE ACCOUNT OF THE GOOD GENTLEMAN'S LIFE. ISBN-10 0689835493

Fleming, Candace. OUR ELEANOR: A SCRAPBOOK LOOK AT ELEANOR ROOSEVELT'S REMARKABLE LIFE. ISBN-10 0689865449

Book Review: BESSIE COLEMAN; DARING TO FLY by Sally M. Walker illustrations by Janice Lee Porter

TWU course

Book review: Bessie Coleman; Daring to Fly
                        by Sally M. Walker
                        illustrations by Janice Lee Porter


1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Walker, Sally M. 2003. BESSIE COLEMAN; DARING TO FLY. Illus. by Janice Lee Porter. Minneapolis, MN: Carolrhoda Books Inc. ISBN 0-87614-103-3.

2. PLOT SUMMARY
"Daring to Fly," describes the life and accomplishments of Bessie Coleman, who stopped at nothing to accomplish her dream of earning her pilot's license.

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Sally M. Walker, tells the story of Bessie Coleman and her desire to study and become the first African American woman to earn a pilot's license. Walker starts out by giving background information about Bessie Coleman and her family. She illustrates how hard her family worked because they were poor. Bessie Coleman is described as a young lady who studied and dreamed of doing something important with her life. She fulfilled some of her goals by earning her pilot's license and putting on airshows. The book uses soft illustrations of Bessie Coleman's life and it is appealing for children to read. I know readers will enjoy this informational picture book of Bessie Coleman.       

4. REVIEW EXCERPTS
THE HORN BOOK GUIDE: "Newly independent readers will be inspired by Bessie Coleman's determination to learn to fly at a time when neither women nor people of color were allowed to do so in the United States"

5. CONNECTIONS
*Invite children to research how many airshows Bessie Coleman performed and the names of the co-pilot.  

*Other books about Bessie Coleman:
Lindbergh, Reeve. NOBODY OWNS THE SKY: THE STORY OF "BRAVE BESSIE" COLEMAN.
ISBN-10: 0763603619

WICKED GIRLS: A NOVEL OF THE SALEM WITCH TRIALS written by Stephanie Hemphill

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Book Review: WICKED GIRLS: A NOVEL OF THE SALEM WITCH TRIALS

1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Hemphill, Stephanie. 2010. WICKED GIRLS: A NOVEL OF THE SALEM WITCH TRIALS. New York:Harper Collins. ISBN 978-0-06-185328-9

2. PLOT SUMMARY
In this novel, Hemphill writes about a group of girls living in Salem in 1692. They start playing a dangerous game with the community that will cause a witch hunt.  

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
WICKED GIRLS," is a novel that shows the mean side of each one of the girls.  I thought the girls should have been arrested and put in prison. Hemphill does a good job describing their character in verse. I enjoy reading about Mercy Lewis because she reminds me of someone. I feel her character is a young girl who will do anything to survive. She has conflicts with herself but maintains an appearance of a good servant.

 4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
"The expressive writing, masterful tension, and parallels to modern group dynamics create a powerful and relevant page-turner." (PUBLISHERS WEEKLY)

5. CONNECTIONS
*Activities
Research the history of witchcraft and superstitions, starting in Europe during the Dark Ages until the present day globally. What are the characteristics of witches, and do they exist today?

*Other engaging books similar to WICKED GIRLS.
Rinaldi, Ann. A BREAK WITH CHARITY: A STORY ABOUT THE SALEM WITCH TRIALS. ISBN-10: 0152046828

Hill, Frances. DELIVERANCE FROM EVIL: A NOVEL OF THE SALEM WITCH TRIALS.
ISBN 0618568603

WE ARE AMERICA, written by Walter Dean Myers, Illustrated by Christopher Myers

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Book Review: WE ARE AMERICA written by Walter Dean Myers

1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Myers, Walter Dean. 2011 WE ARE AMERICA. Ill. Myers, Christopher. New York: Collins.
ISBN 978-0-06-052308-4

2. PLOT SUMMARY
In the poem picture book of  "WE ARE AMERICA," Myers explain to readers about America. He uses poems and mural-like paintings to illustrate everything that has shaped America. Going back to the first man who claimed America's sacred land by expressing emotions in  free verse.  

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
The illustrations that Myers used to enhance his poems are mural-like paintings. Reading the poems plus viewing the beautiful mural-like paintings stirs up emotions about certain events which took place. In a poem titled "Before there was America," shows murals with Native Americans running and enjoying their land. I see them dancing, and swaying. There is a quote "THIS LAND BELONGS TO THE FIRST WHO SITS DOWN ON HIS BLANKET..." (TECUMSEH)
In a poem titled "And from the tensions," the illustrations paint a picture of a nation that is trying to keep everyone together.

Myers uses these illustrations and poems to make readers aware of what happened in America.
    
4. REVIEW EXCERPTS
KIRKUS review: "The Myers team shares their heartfelt and stirring vision of an America flawed but filled with promises and dreams. Like weavers connecting warp and woof, father threads lofty words and son paints seamless pictures. Each double-page spread contains a brief poem and usually a quote from a relevant document or person. A mural rendered in pastels spans both pages. Homage is paid to young people, Native Americans; immigrants from Europe, African and Asia; laborers, protestors, soldiers and performers. "We were willing to die to forge our dream" writes Walter Dean Myers paints snarling dogs attacking civil rights protestors, and colonial patriots throwing tea into Boston Harbor. Juxtaposed with this are the opening line to the Constitution and King George's words granting independence. In another tableau, a slave shows his terribly scarred back, Indians lie dead at Wounded Knee and Japanese American citizens stand behind barbed wire, but Americans learned to "light the darkness with the blazing torch that is the Constitution." Backmatter credits each quotation and identifies the people in each painting. The poetry and the paintings will be an excellent jumping-off for discussions. Readers will take every opportunity to pause and reflect and trace their fingers along the glorious artwork. Stunning. (Picture book/poetry. 8 & up)

5. CONNECTIONS
*Activities
Have students prepare a painting and a poem about a tragic event in America. The poem should tell a story.
*Other engaging books of poetry for ages 10-18.
Philip, Neil.SINGING AMERICA POEMS THAT DEFINE A NATION. ISBN-10: 0670861507
Grady, Cynthia. I LAY MY STITCHES DOWN POEMS OF AMERICAN SLAVERY.

Come Sunday written by Nikki Grimes, illustrated by Michael Bryant

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COME SUNDAY written by Nikki Grimes

1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Grimes, Nikki. 1996. COME SUNDAY. Michigan: Eerdmans. ISBN 0-8028-5108-8.

2. PLOT SUMMARY
In "COME SUNDAY" Grimes tells the story of a young Afro-American girl who describes her Sunday at Paradise Baptist Church. The main character "Latasha," is a sweet girl who enjoys attending church with her parents.    

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
The illustrations are great! I like the way Grimes sketch the congregation and the colors used to represent the many different shades of Afro-Americans. The front cover illustrates Latasha as she smiles during church with her hands pressed together during prayer. My emotions are happy and understanding when reading the poem story. I can relate to Latasha and Paradise Baptist Church. Paradise Baptist Church reminds me of the church I attended when I was a young girl. Grimes gives a excellent description of everything in the church that is special to Latasha. From the morning she wakes-up with her mom until church service is over.

The poems are perfect for COME SUNDAY because the Blue-Haired Ladies, Baptism, and Church Supper tell the story of a young girl "Latasha," and Paradise Baptist Church.

Blue-Haired Ladies
We enter the church in time to greet
the pastor's wife we sometimes meet.
I curtsy, ladylike, then see
those blue-haired ladies coming for me.

Baptism
Down, down, down into the water,
preacher leaning over me.
Gone, gone, gone the fear of drowning, once my father's face I see.
Up, up, up-baptized forever!
Mommy let me make the choice.
Joy, joy, joy is what I'm feeling,
hearing pride in Daddy's voice.

Church Supper
Sundays and church suppers go together,
even better than collards and ham
and honey-glazed yams,
fried chicken and black-eyed peas,
and pumpkin pie-and I better stop
before my stomach starts to growl.

4. REVIEW EXCERPTS
ALA Notable Book
California Readers Collection-elementary schools list

"In lively and delicious poetry, accompanied by evocative, full-color illustrations, Nikki Grimes recount LaTasha's Sunday adventures in Paradise--Paradise Baptist Church, that is. From rising in the morning, to greeting the blue-haired ladies at church, to the soft and powerful voice of the visiting lady preacher, the church offering, a baptism, a church supper, and finally home to bed, Grimes bring the experience of Sundays at church to life. Reverent, funny and wildly energetic all at the same time, this is a wonderful book for introducing children to church life." (PUBLISHERS WEEKLY)

"At the end of the long, joy-filled day, Latasha is sleepy and glad she spent another day in Paradise." Whatever their religious background, readers will smile at their jubilation." (KIRKUS REVIEW)

"Reading Nikki Grimes' delightful collection of poems is like taking a trip to church through  the eyes and mind of a little girl... This little girl's love of church is certainly the kind of experience many parents would hope their own children would have Come Sunday." (DETROIT FREE PRESS)

5. CONNECTIONS
*Activities for children ages five to eight.

Make biblical trading cards based on your favorite character from the book. Write down facts about the person on one side and draw a picture on the other side.

Plan a potluck dinner of kids favorite food to share. Have children sign up to bring their favorite dish (with the recipe) and share at your next meeting.

*Other engaging books of poetry
Grimes, Nikki. WHEN DADDY PRAYS. ISBN 0-8028-5152-5
Ladwig, Tim. THE LORD'S PRAYER. ISBN 0-8028-5238-6

Book Review: The Story of Lightning & Thunder by Ashley Bryan

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Book Review: The Story of Lightning & Thunder by Ashley Bryan

1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Bryan, Ashley, 1993. THE STORY OF LIGHTNING & THUNDER. New York: Macmillan.
ISBN 0-689-31836-7

2. PLOT SUMMARY
THE STORY OF LIGHTNING & THUNDER is based on folk stories from Nigeria, West Africa.
The characters are Ma Sheep Thunder and Son Ram Lightning. Thunder was a mother sheep, and Lightning was her son, a ram. Son Ram Lightning is a young ram who wants to help the village,but he causes the village more trouble.

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
The illustrations showcase a village on the west coast of Africa. The people are showcased as happy people who live together in a village until Son Ram Lightning starts "with a biff, bam, butt he sent people flying or falling to both sides." Son Ram Lightning is a happy young ram, who continues to cause trouble, but he is trying to help the people who live in the village. At the end of the story, Ma Sheep Thunder and Son Ram Lightning finds peace in the sky.   

4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
Joyful in both word and palette, this African story tells why lightning and thunder reside in the sky and not on earth, as they once did (i.e PUBLISHERS WEEKLY).

A delightful adaption of a Nigerian folktale about "Ma Sheep Thunder" and her "Son Ram Lightning," who live in a village where the people rely on them to call their friend Rain down from the clouds over the mountains (i.e KIRKUS REVIEWS).

5. CONNECTIONS
Other stories to read.
Branley, Franklyn M. FLASH, CRASH, RUMBLE, AND ROLL.
Bruchac, Joseph. THE STORY OF THE MILKY WAY: A CHEROKEE TALE.
Bryan, Ashley. THE NIGHT HAS EARS: AFRICAN PROVERBS.

Book Review: THE THREE PIGS By David Wiesner

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Book Review: THE THREE PIGS By David Wiesner

1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Wiesner, David 2001. THE THREE PIGS. New York: Houghton. ISBN 0-618-00701-6

2. PLOT SUMMARY
THE THREE PIGS is a retelling of an old folktale.This story begins with the first pig building a house out of straw and the wolf blowing it down. The first pig is blown right out of the story but the wolf looks confused. Did he eat the first pig? From the look on the wolf's face he is unsure. At that point, the wolf has changed the events of the story. Each time the wolf tries to blow the pigs house down the three pigs are blown somewhere else.      

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
This story has fantasy and fun with the three pigs and the wolf. Weisner portrays the three pigs as hardworking animals. All the pigs are carrying what is needed to build a house. As I look at the illustrations, I see the pigs walking around with bricks, sticks, and straw. "The illustrations are watercolor, gouache, colored inks, pencil, and colored pencil on Fabriano hot press paper. I see the three pigs having a great time. They are not worried about the wolf just finding their way home.    

4. REVIEW EXCERPTS
"Wiesner dialogue and illustrations are clever, whimsical and sophisticated (New York Times)."

"Children will delight in the changing perspectives...and the whole notion of the interrupted narrative...fresh and funny...Witty dialogue and physical comedy abound in this inspired retelling of a familiar favorite (School Library Journal)." 

Honors:
2002 Caldecott Medal

5. CONNECTIONS
This story would make an excellent activity to teach children K-3 to write about exploring their imagination.
*Other stories similar to THE THREE PIGS
The Lion and the Mouse by Jerry Pinkney
A Sick Day for Amos McGee by Philip C. Stead

Book Review: SWAMP ANGEL by Anne Isaacs

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Book Review: SWAMP ANGEL by Anne Isaacs

1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Isaacs, Anne, 1994. SWAMP ANGEL. Ill. by Paul O. Zelinsky. New York: Dutton.
ISBN 0-525-45271-0

2. PLOT SUMMARY
SWAMP ANGEL is a tall tale about the greatest woodswoman in Tennessee. In this story, Angelica Longrider, gets her name because she rescues a group of settlers from a swamp. This story is told in 1815 on the American frontier. Swamp Angel learns a lot about surviving in the backwoods of Tennessee plus she is extremely stronger than all the settlers combined. The illustrations show Swamp Angel as a gigantic woman who is bigger, stronger, and taller living on the frontier. She appears when the settlers are in need of help. 

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
This story describes SWAMP ANGEL as the strongest and greatest woodswoman during her time. In the story, SWAMP ANGEL never fears Thundering Tarnation. She continues to go after the huge bear until she kills him. Quoted from the book, "Tarnation pinned Angel to the muddy bottom with one of his gigantic paws. To get a breath of air, she had to drink the whole lake dry."Swamp Angel did not give up fighting Tarnation instead she did everything to kill him. At the end of the story, Angelica Longrider walks away with Thundering Tarnation's pelt.

4. REVIEW EXCERPTS
"Move over, Paul Bunyan, you are about to meet Swamp Angel, an original creation in the tall-tale tradition whose exploits are guaranteed to amaze and amuse a wide swath of readers...  Visually exciting, wonderful to read aloud, this is a picture book to remember. (Horn Book)"

"It is impossible to convey the sheer pleasure, the exaggerate loopiness, of newcomer Isaacs's wonderful story. Matching the superb text stride for stride are Zelinsky's altered-state, American primitive paintings-gems that provide new pleasures, reading after reading. (Kirkus)"

Honors: 1995 Caldecott Honor Book, 1994 ALA Notable Book, Booklist Children's Editors Choice 1994, Publisher's Weekly Best Books of 1994.

5. CONNECTIONS
This tall tale would be great to encourage children to write and illustrate their own tall tales or illustrate stories from American folktales.
*Other tall tale stories
MISS SALLY ANN AND THE PAINTER

     

 



  

Book Review, "Are You My Mother," by P.D. Eastman

TWU Course

1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Eastman, P.D. 1960. ARE YOU MY MOTHER. Ill. by P.D. Eastman. New York, U.S.
Random House. ISBN 0-394-900118-9

2. PLOT SUMMARY
In this picture book, P.D. Eastman writes about a baby bird. He describes the baby bird as being lost and confused. He details how the baby bird is born without its mother. POPPING OUT AND WONDERING WHERE IS MY MOTHER! The baby bird is so confused it walks off to find its mother. The author is helping us understand about feelings we have about being confused, and the way we handle confusion. 

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Eastman writing is asking "How do you handle confusion?" Someone might respond, "I Walk Away From The Truth, But I Will Return." I believe Eastman used a baby bird to illustrate how silly we act when we are confronted with the truth.

If you look closely, the illustrations show how confused the baby bird is while looking for its mother. After the baby bird encounters so many NO's it decides to go back home. Home is where the baby bird should have stayed.

4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
Starred in School Library Journal.

5. CONNECTIONS
Related Books: "Go, Dog, Go! Eastman, P.D. ISBN: 0-394-80020-6





 

Book Review, "The Bakery Lady, La senora de la panaderia," written by Pat Mora

1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
    Mora, Pat. 2001. THE BAKERY LADY LA SENORA DE LA PANADERIA.
    Ill. by Pablo Torrecilla. Pinata Books Arte Publico Press. ISBN 1-55885-343-X

2. PLOT SUMMARY
    The Bakery Lady, is a picture book story about a young girl who wants to be a baker. She lives
    above the bakery that her grandparents own. Monica, watches her Abuelo and Abuela work hard
    each day, and she wonders if she can work as hard as them. Monica, is determined to show her
    grandparents she is a hard worker by making lemon cookies, pinata invitations for the party, and
    shopping for everything her family and friends will need for the fiesta.

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
    Pat Mora's writing about "The Bakery Lady," is a warm filled story of family friends and fun. I
    I enjoy reading about families who love and help each other. I felt this way when reading.
    Pat Mora wants readers to see the love they have for Monica and the love Monica has for her
    grandparents bakery.

    Pat Mora's illustrations are very good in my opinion. I love the colors (pink, yellow, brown,
    orange, red, green) I also like the clothes that they wear while working in the bakery. Abuela and
    Monica wear Mexican dresses. I love Mexican dresses. I also like the expression on their faces.
    I do not see angry or mad expressions.   

  4. REVIEW EXCERPTS
       Latino Literacy Hall of Fame, Second Place, Children's Picture Book Category.
       "Mora has once again succeeded in writing a warm family story that includes information
       about Mexican traditions and celebrations while appealing to the common elements that
       link people across cultures," School of Library Journal.

  5.  CONNECTIONS
       My family is close and helpful towards each other just like the family in "The Bakery
       Lady." Other books related to helpful families:
       Zepeda, Gwendolyn. GROWING UP WITH TAMALES. ISBN 978-1-55885-493-2



       
       
   
         

Book Review, "Kitten's First Full Moon"

TWU Course

1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
    Henkes, Kevin 2004. KEVIN HENKES KITTENS FIRST FULL MOON.
    ILL by Kevin Henkes. GREENWILLOW BOOKS HARPERCOLLINS PUBLISHERS 
    ISBN 0-06-058828-4 (trade) 0-06-058829-2 (lib. bdg.)

2. PLOT SUMMARY
    In this picture book, Kevin Henkes's animal story of kitten, who mistakes a full moon
    for a bowl of milk. Kitten searches and searches for this bowl of milk but only licks bugs.
    He describes kitten as an eager kitten who wants to find the bowl of milk no matter how far she  
    travels. He details Kitten looking, licking, and chasing the bowl of milk. Kitten never finds the 
    bowl of milk until she returns home.

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
    Henkes writing of "Kitten's First Full Moon," is about comedy and humor for grades
    kindergarten through second grade. The illustrations are good because it shows readers
    Kittens next move. I enjoy seeing the look on Kitten's face when she still can not lick the
    bowl of milk.

4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S) Starred review in "SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL." 2004
    Caldecott Medal
    New York Times, Best Illustrated Book
    ALA Notable Childrens Book
    Publishers Weekly Best Book
    Charlotte Zolotow Award
    Booklist Editors' Choice
    Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books Blue Ribbon
    Kirkus Reviews Editors' Choice
   

5. CONNECTIONS
    If you enjoy reading to children in early childhood, this book is an excellent book. Kitten's First
    Full Moon offers adventure, comedy, and humor. *Other books for children in early learning
    "Tillie Lays an Egg," "Cock-a-Moo-Moo," "Woolbur."    
    

   

This is a test only a test for 12FA Children's Literature.