Meet Addy by Connie Porter

Porter, Connie. Meet Addy. Middleton, WI: Pleasant Company Publications, 1993. 78 pages $6.95 ISBN 9781562470753

Plot Summary: Addy and her mother escape from the plantation on which they are slaves after Addy's father and brother are sold to another master. Addy, only nine-years-old, and her mother must leave Esther in the care of other slaves in order to escape. Separated on their way to a safe house, Addy worries she will never see her mother again and whether they will make it to Philadelphia.

Critical Evaluation: Rereading this book as an adult I am even more drawn to Addy's character. The book is so powerful and emotional, even when geared towards younger readers. I forgot that they have to leave Esther, Addy's baby sister, with other slaves in order to escape. This really caught me and I was surprised by the tragedy of the book. Although the subject is intense and tragic, it is necessary that kids learn about this time in our history.

Reader's Annotation: Nine-year-old Addy and her mother make the perilous journey from their plantation in the south to Philadelphia on foot.

Author Bio: Connie Porter grew up in a housing project, the second youngest of nine kids. She earned degrees from both SUNY Albany and Louisiana State University and has taught English and creative writing at Milton Academy, Emerson College and Southern Illinois University. Connie has published several books for children and young adults including the Addy Walker series for American Girl/Pleasant Company, and modern day fiction. Connie currently lives in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Genre: Historical Fiction

Curriculum Ties: A great choice for pairing with Civil War/Slavery studies.

Booktalking Ideas: Talk about not only the dangers and hardships of traveling hundreds of miles on foot, but also the terror of being caught and brought back to slavery.

Reading Level/Interest Age: Ages 8 and up, Grade 2 and up.

Challenges: The subject matter is very intense and emotional, and may be too much for some kids to handle.

Reason for including: I was a BIG American Girl fan when I was a kid, and Addy was one of my favorites. I still have my Addy doll. This seemed like an essential pick for tweens, at least tween girls. I read the books until I was thirteen.

The Rifle by Gary Paulsen

Paulsen, Gary. The Rifle. San Deigo: Harcourt Brace, 1995. 112 pages. $5.95 ISBN 9780152928803

Plot Summary: The story follows the life of a rifle created in 1768. After the death of the original owner the gun is passed on through more than two centuries until it falls into the hands of a mechanic. Richard is just an innocent bystander in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Critical Evaluation: This book mesmerized me when I read it in 1995. I was amazed at the detail Paulsen went into about the creation of the gun and then the events leading up to the tragic shot. Reading it again years later I can definitely see where Paulsen pushes "guns don't kill people, people kill people" but still feel that it is a moving book. I'm not sure though that a two hundred year old gun would fire without exploding on the holder, or would fire at all.

Reader's Annotation: Since 1768 the rifle has changed hands, not one checking to see if the gun was loaded.

Author Bio: Gary Paulsen is the author of several young adult novels including Hatchet, Nightjohn and The Winter Rooms. He has won several awards including a Newbery Honor. He lives in La Luz, NM with his wife Ruth. He also runs 40 acres of land north of Willow, AK where he breeds and trains sled dogs for the Iditarod.

Genre: Realistic Fiction, Historical Fiction

Curriculum Ties: This could be tied into Revolutionary history, but also with any study of gun laws.

Booktalking Ideas: Talk about the history of prized objects and how one object can pass through so many lives without the people realizing all the history behind the object.

Reading Level/Interest Age: Ages 12 and up

Challenges: The fact that it is about a gun may cause issues, as well as the graphic scene at the end of the novel about Richard being shot.

Reason for including: For some reason this book has stuck with me over the years. I remember reading the scene at the end when the boy gets shot a few times, each time amazed that Paulsen went into all that detail and disgusted at the same time. I think it is a good book for tweens to read, if not for anything else then for them to realize guns are dangerous.

Ballet Shoes

Goldbacher, Sandra (dir.). Ballet Shoes. New York: Koch Entertainment, 2007.

Plot Summary: After the death of her parents, Sylvia and her governess Nana move in with her only surviving relative, uncle Gum. Gum is a paleontologist and travels most of her life in his London home. He does send postcards, as well as baby girls. The result of his philanthropy is the Fossil girls, Pauline, Petrova and Posy. Each girl has a dream, Pauline hopes to be an actress, Petrova an aviator and Posy a ballerina. The family of women fall into financial trouble, and Sylvia decides to take on boarders. The boarders open up a world of possibilities for all the Fossils, including Sylvia, and lead them on the road to fulfilling their dreams.

Critical Evaluation: The movie is a well done presentation of the 1920s through set design and costumes, as well as representations of theatre and movie productions of the age. The girls are easy to relate to as each girl has a unique personality and ambition. However, some kids may think the movie is boring. There isn't much action, as it is more of a drama.

Reader's Annotation: Follow the Fossil sisters as they vow to make names for themselves in post-WWI London on the stage, in film and in the sky.

Author Bio: Sandra Goldbacher was also director of Seventeen, Me Without You and The Governess, starring Minnie Driver and Tom Wilkinson. The Governess was also Goldbacher's screenwriting debut. The all-star cast features Potter veterans Emma Watson (Pauline Fossil), Richard Griffiths (Great Uncle Matthew, or GUM), and Gemma Jones (Dr. Jakes). Marc Warren recently starred in Wanted alongside Angelina Jolie, James McAvoy, and Morgan Freeman as The Repairman. Emilia Fox featured in the popular short film turned full length movie Cashback, and will soon be appearing in the film adaptation of The Portrait of Dorian Gray.

Genre: Historical Fiction, coming of age

Curriculum Ties: A good film to watch while studying WWI life outside of and post-war.

Booktalking Ideas: Pair this with the book by Noel Streatfeild by showing the preview, or a select scene or two. A scene in which the sisters make one of their vows to get into the history books would be a good way to intrigue tweens, get them to want to find out if they keep their vow.

Reading Level/Interest Age: 10 and up, Grades 5-8

Challenges: None

Reason for including: I purchased this movie when it came out, being a fan of Emma Watson. I hadn't heard of Ballet Shoes (the novel) before seeing the movie. I thought the movie was a good tween movie, since the characters are in their tweens and deal with age-appropriate issues.

The Hunchback Assignments by Arthur Slade

Slade, Arthur. The Hunchback Assignments. New York: Wendy Lamb Books, 2009. 278 pg. $15.99 ISBN 978-0-385-73784-5

Plot Summary: Modo is not what one would normally consider a beautiful boy. He has a hunched back and slightly deformed face. But, he is special. Modo has the ability to morph his features and body into another human form, although this transformation only lasts a few hours at most. Saved from a traveling circus as a baby by Mr. Socrates , Modo was kept secret in a country estate where he learned everything from fighting to Latin. Unexpectedly, Mr. Socrates, abandons Modo in the middle of London where he is forced to make his own way. Little does he know that the series of events that follow, including his meeting with Octavia Milkweed , are all linked. Meanwhile, some sinister machines and an army of potion altered children are being created in the bowels of London.

Critical Evaluation:

Reader's Annotation: Modo, a hunchback with special powers, becomes the entangled in a war between his guarding Mr. Socrates and the evil Clockwork Guild.

Author Bio:

Genre: Steampunk, Science Fiction, Alternate Reality, Historical Fiction

Curriculum Ties:

Booktalking Ideas:

Reading Level/Interest Age: Grades 6-10, ages 12 and up

Challenges:

Reason for including: I am a big fan of steampunk literature and anytime steampunk is written for tweens or teens I read it. I was waiting for this book to come out and checked it out from the library as soon as it became available.

The Loud Silence of Francine Green by Karen Cushman

Cushman, Karen. The Loud Silence of Francine Green. New York: Clarion Books, 2006. 225 pages. $16.00 ISBN 9780618504558

Plot Summary: When Francine Green becomes friends with vivacious Sophie Bowman, Francine's life begins to change. The girls talk about everything from the atom bomb, free speech, whether God exists, to movie stars and school. Francine learns that she does have an opinion and it does count.

Critical Evaluation: This is an interesting book about post-WWII America when it was dangerous to be heard talking about certain things. The transformation of Francine is apparent throughout the book and encouraging for girls who feel like their opinion on the important things in life doesn't matter.

Reader's Annotation: When Francine Green befriends Sophie Bowman her whole life changes.

Author Bio: Karen Cushman is the author of several historical fiction novels for tweens. She grew up in Los Angeles, CA but currently lives in Vashar Island, WA with her husband Phil. Karen studied Greek and English at Stanford University, and later earned master's degrees in both human behavior and museum studies.

Genre: Historical Fiction

Curriculum Ties: Could be used during a study of life after WWII.

Booktalking Ideas: Talk about the fear associated with war

Reading Level/Interest Age: 11 and up

Challenges:

Reason for including: Karen Cushman is a great tween writer and I use her for an author study this semester.

Matilda Bone by Karen Cushman

Cushman, Karen. Matilda Bone. New York: Clarion Books, 2000. 176 pages. $6.50 ISBN 9780440418221

Plot Summary: Matilda is sent to live and work with a village bonesetter while her master and priest is off on official church business. Matilda is a devout Christian who has some serious issues with the way the bonesetter lives her life. As time with the bonesetter wears on, Matilda sees that the way she lives isn't necessarily better than everyone else.

Critical Evaluation: This short book is a somewhat humorous glimpse into the life of a medieval saint-wanna-be. Matilda's mental conversations with the saints are hilarious.

Reader's Annotation: Devout Matilda is sent to live and work with a village bonesetter, much to her dismay.

Author Bio: Karen Cushman is the author of several historical fiction novels for tweens. She grew up in Los Angeles, CA but currently lives in Vashar Island, WA with her husband Phil. Karen studied Greek and English at Stanford University, and later earned master's degrees in both human behavior and museum studies.

Genre: Historical Fiction

Curriculum Ties: Would be good to use during a medieval history study.

Booktalking Ideas: Talk about medieval medical practices and what it would be like to work for a bonesetter.

Reading Level/Interest Age: Ages 9-14

Challenges: None

Reason for including: I love Karen Cushman, and this book is one of my favorites of hers.

Rodzina by Karen Cushman

Cushman, Karen. Rodzina. New York: Clarion Books, 2003. 215 pages. $16.00 ISBN 9780618133512

Plot Summary: Rodzina is sent on an orphan train headed west from Chicago. She is terrified that she will end up a slave and even frees herself from a forced marriage on the trip west. The uncertainty of her future weighs heavily on her mind, but slowly she sees happy marriages and kids being welcomed into loving homes and it gives her hope.

Critical Evaluation: This was a very interesting book as I had no previous knowledge of the orphan trains in the 19th century. It is a compelling story and as usual her extensive research and note at the end suggest the accuracy of the events detailed in the book.

Reader's Annotation: Rodzina leaves Chicago on an orphan train headed west, sure she will end up as a slave.

Author Bio: Karen Cushman is the author of several historical fiction novels for tweens. She grew up in Los Angeles, CA but currently lives in Vashar Island, WA with her husband Phil. Karen studied Greek and English at Stanford University, and later earned master's degrees in both human behavior and museum studies.

Genre: Historical Fiction

Curriculum Ties: This would be good to pair with 19th century American history.

Booktalking Ideas: Talk about what it would be like to take a train ride all on your own not really knowing where you're going.

Reading Level/Interest Age: Ages 10-14

Challenges: None.

Reason for including: Karen Cushman is one of my favorite tween authors and I used her in my author study.

The Ballad of Lucy Whipple by Karen Cushman

Cushman, Karen. The Ballad of Lucy Whipple. New York: Clarion Books, 1996. 218 pages $5.99 ISBN 9780064406840

Plot Summary: Lucy and her family head west for the gold rush. They don't find much and soon Lucy escapes to the shelter of her books she loves so well.

Critical Evaluation: The story of California Morning is quite an interesting book because it is from the point of view of not only a woman in a California gold mining town, but sees the other side of the life during the California gold rush.

Reader's Annotation: California Morning doesn't want to move to California, and when she gets there she certainly doesn't want to be named California any more.

Author Bio: Karen Cushman is the author of several historical fiction novels for tweens. She grew up in Los Angeles, CA but currently lives in Vashar Island, WA with her husband Phil. Karen studied Greek and English at Stanford University, and later earned master's degrees in both human behavior and museum studies.

Genre: Historical Fiction

Curriculum Ties: This would be a good tie in to a study about the California gold rush.

Booktalking Ideas: Talk about the risks involved in moving out west to pan for gold.

Reading Level/Interest Age: Ages 9-13

Challenges: None.

Reason for including: Karen Cushman is one of my favorite tween authors.

Catherine Called Birdy by Karen Cushman

Cushman, Karen. Catherine Called Birdy. New York: Clarion Books, 1995. 224 pages. $6.99 ISBN 978-0064405843

Plot Summary: Catherine's father has decided she need to be married. He brings over suitors which she gets rid of and he is forced to take serious action. He chooses one man that Catherine just can't stand, although his son isn't too bad. Catherine tries very hard to get rid of him.

Critical Evaluation: This is another example of humorous treatment of a big problem in the life of a medieval girl. Catherine is believable and the reader roots for her freedom to choose her husband.

Reader's Annotation: Catherine does not want to get married to just anyone her father wishes, so she devises some plans to prevent the marriage.

Author Bio: Karen Cushman is the author of several historical fiction novels for tweens. She grew up in Los Angeles, CA but currently lives in Vashar Island, WA with her husband Phil. Karen studied Greek and English at Stanford University, and later earned master's degrees in both human behavior and museum studies.

Genre: historical fiction

Curriculum Ties: This would work well paired with a medieval/renaissance history unil.

Booktalking Ideas: Talk about what it would be like to be forced into an arranged marriage as a teenager.

Reading Level/Interest Age: Ages 9-14

Challenges: The main character is a teen and this could cause some concern because the book is about her trying to get out of an arranged marriage. Although it was a common age back then, it isn't accepted now.

Reason for including: This was the first Karen Cushman book I ever read and has a special place in my heart.

The Midwife's Apprentice by Karen Cushman

Cushman, Karen. The Midwife's Apprentice. New York: HarperCollins, 1996. 128 pages $6.99 ISBN 9780064406307

Plot Summary: Alyce was found by the midwife in a dung heap and taken in as her apprentice. She tries very hard to be a good apprentice but feels as those she continually fails. One failed birth sends her running only to find out that the midwife wasn't disappointed that she failed, just disappointed she gave up.

Critical Evaluation: This is a very interesting medieval based book. It made me want to be a midwife for quite a while.

Reader's Annotation: Alyce tries very hard to be a great midwife assistant but lets one failure ruin her chances to learn more.

Author Bio: Karen Cushman is the author of several historical fiction novels for tweens. She grew up in Los Angeles, CA but currently lives in Vashar Island, WA with her husband Phil. Karen studied Greek and English at Stanford University, and later earned master's degrees in both human behavior and museum studies.

Genre: Historical Fiction

Curriculum Ties: A good tie in for a medieval history unit.

Booktalking Ideas: Talk about the differences in medicine in the medieval era and now.

Reading Level/Interest Age: Ages 8-14

Challenges: None.

Reason for including: Karen Cushman is one of my favorite tween authors and The Midwife's Apprentice was one of my favorites.

Peter and the Starcatchers by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson

Barry, Dave and Ridley Pearson. Peter and the Starcatchers.
Plot Summary: Peter and his friends leave St. Norberts Home for Wayward Boys, forced into the job of cabin boys aboard the ship Never Land. On the ship Peter meets Molly, a Starcatcher, and discovers a chest full of star stuff onboard. The chest of star stuff ends up on an island, and soon the entire island is transformed by the magic of the star. Starcatchers and pirates are soon racing to the island to be the first to get the star stuff. A great battle ensues over the chest of star stuff, with Peter and his gang in the middle.

Critical Evaluation: This clever series imagines Peter Pan's life before J.M. Barrie's novel takes place. The characters are believable, and it is fascinating to see the transformation of Peter and the Lost Boys as well as the not yet Captain Hook.

Reader's Annotation: Follow Peter and his friends in an adventure on the sea in pursuit of magical star stuff.

Author Bio: Dave Barry was a nationally syndicated columnist for the Miami Herald from 1983 to 2005 and has published several comedic novels. Ridley Pearson is the author of several adult mystery novels.

Genre: Fantasy.

Curriculum Ties: None.

Booktalking Ideas: Talk about Peter Pan and ask if they ever wondered how Peter Pan became Peter Pan and exactly how Captain Hook lost his hand.

Reading Level/Interest Age: Ages 8-12

Challenges: None.

Reason for including: I loved Peter Pan growing up and thought the idea of a prequel was clever.

The Ruby in the Smoke by Philip Pullman

Pullman, Philip. The Ruby in the Smoke. New York: Random House Children's Books, 2008 (reprint). 256 pages $7.99 ISBN 9780375845161

Plot Summary: After losing her father at sea, Sally Lockhart decides to find out what really happened to him after receiving a mysterious letter. She becomes entangled in murder, theft, and opium addicts all leading back to her father. Sally befriends photographer Frederick, his sister Rosa, and their shop assistant Trembler. As she lives with them she helps create a successful photography business all while solving the mysteries her father left her with.

Critical Evaluation: This was a very mysterious book, and not at all what I expected. I thought Pullman did a great job revealing bits of information at a time to keep the reader glued to the pages. This is completely different than The Golden Compass, but maybe more appealing to a wider audience than the fantasy of The Golden Compass.

Reader's Annotation: After the death of her father, Sally Lockhart becomes involved in a string of mysteries surrounding his death and a large ruby.

Author Bio: Philip Pullman is most famous for the His Dark Materials series. He has published several books for children and young adults and will be releasing a book on Jesus in the near future. He is known for his criticism of organized religion, namely Christianity. As a child, Pullman moved from England to Zimbabwe to Australia and finally to North Wales. He went to Exeter College in Oxford for English. He has been a teacher most of his adult life, and balanced his teaching and lecturing with writing books.

Genre: Mystery, Historical Fiction

Curriculum Ties: This could be paired with a Victorian history study.

Booktalking Ideas: Talk about Sally and her adventures throughout London in search of answers about The Seven Blessing, a mysterious missing ruby and the death of her father.

Reading Level/Interest Age: 12 and up

Challenges: There is mention of drug use.

Reason for including: I like Pullman's His Dark Materials series so I wanted to give this series a try as well.

The Case of the Missing Marquess: An Enola Holmes Mystery

Springer, Nancy. The Case of the Missing Marquess: An Enola Holmes Mystery.

Plot Summary: Enola Holmes doesn't understand why her mother gave her the name that spells "alone" backwards, but it seems like a self-fulfilling prophesy. The day of her fourteenth birthday, her mother never came back. She did however leave a few presents with Mrs. Lane the housekeeper to give to Enola should she not arrive home in time. Enola first assumes these presents, an illustrated book of cyphers and a book on the language of flowers, are trivial. But when faced with the prospect of being sent to boarding school by her older brothers Mycroft and Sherlock Holmes she digs deeper into why her mother left. She finds many mysteries surrounding her mother's behavior, the secret finances, the disapperance, and decides to give the book of cyphers some thought. Using the language of flowers as her reference, Enola finds many things she did not expect. Armed with her new knowledge and hidden treasures, Enola sets off to London in search of her mother. Along the way, she becomes involved in another mystery, that of young Lord Tukesberry.

Critical Evaluation: This book was a great short read. Having not read a juvenile mystery, or any mystery for that matter, since the days of Encyclopedia Brown, I thought this book was quite refreshing. Although most suited for girls due to the mention of so many "unmentionables," boys may be drawn to the mystery and action of the story. Enola is certainly no typical Victorian lady. The narrative flows smoothly, with excellent descriptions of her surroundings and how deductive process.

Reader's Annotation: Enola Holmes, the mistake of the family, is tired of living in the shadow of her older brothers Mycroft and the famous Sherlock Holmes. After the disappearance of her mother, she sets off on an adventure to London to solve her own mystery.

Author Bio: Nancy Springer is the author of 45 books, including juvenile (tween/teen) and adult. She has written two novels set in the time of Camelot: I am Mordred and I am Morgan Le Fay. Springer has also created a five book series about the daughter of Robin Hood, Rowan Hood. Her newest series, The Enola Holmes series, follows the detective work of Sherlock Holmes' younger sister. In 1995 and 1996, Springer won The Edgar Allen Poe award for Toughing It and Looking for Jamie Bridger, respectively.

Genre: Mystery, Historical Fiction

Curriculum Ties: This would make a good Language Arts book selection.

Booktalking Ideas: The prologue of The Case of the Missing Marquess is very mysterious and certainly captured my attention. A good way to pique the interest of potential readers would be to read the prologue in the most engaging storytelling manner.

Reading Level/Interest Age: Grades 4-7, ages 10 and up.

Challenges: There is a lot of talk about undergarments, however it is done in a modest way.

Reason for including: I saw The Case of the Cryptic Crinolines in the new juvenile section at the library. I was going to read that one, but decided I should start from the beginning of the series. I can't bring myself to pick up a series in the middle.

http://us.penguingroup.com/nf/Author/AuthorPage/0,,1000015705,00.html

Airman by Eoin Colfer

Colfer, Eoin. Airman. New York: Puffin, 2008. 416 pages. $17.99 ISBN 9781423107507

Plot Summary: At the end of the 19th century, it was pure science fiction to thing of humans in flight. For Conor Broekhart, it will be a reality. Conor lives on the Saltee Islands off the coast of Ireland with his parents. He is best friends with the king's daughter, and he has the greatest Frenchman and scientist as his tutor. When the evil Hugo Bonvilain assassinates King Nicholas and Conor's tutor Victor Vigny, and catches Conor as the sole witness, Hugo fakes Conor's death and sends him to Little Saltee. Little Saltee is the prison island, and Conor spends his days there with a new name and a new life. Conor is set on escaping the island, not to go back home to his family, but to build his flying machine and start a new life. However an interesting, and unforeseen, turn of events sends Conor in a different direction.

Critical Evaluation: This book was amazing. I couldn't put it down. I was so fascinated with the history of the Saltee Islands, the strange government, the customs. I was convinced the small republic was real, and was duped out of learning about it in school. However, I looked up the Saltee Islands and they are real, albeit privately owned. No Great Saltee Republic. Eion created a very convincing world, that could have fit in perfectly with British and Irish history. Queen Victoria herself attends Princess Isabella's coronation. Apart from the interesting world and government Eoin created, the science of the flying machines was fascinating.

Reader's Annotation: In the late 1800s, humans figured they're leave flying to the birds. Conor Broekhart is determined to get into the sky.

Author Bio: Eoin (pronounced Owen) Colfer is the Irish author of the Artemis Fowl series as well as several other tween and teen novels. He grew up in Wexford, attended Dublin University, then returned to Wexford after graduation to work as a primary school teacher. He married his wife in 1991 and worked in Saudi Arabia, Tunisia and Italy until 1996. He wrote a few novels before the Artemis Fowl series, but with the publication of the first book in 2001 he was able to leave teaching and become a full time writer. Eoin and his wife live with their two children in Ireland.

Genre: Historical Fiction (I'm not sure whether to classify this as Science Fiction, since there is a great deal of science involved, but is not the typical science fiction work.)

Curriculum Ties: This would be an interesting read while learning about flying machines and airplanes, to get an understanding of the early view of human flight.

Booktalking Ideas: Show pictures of early planes and flying machines. Then ask them to imagine building something in a place little bigger than an average sized bathroom with only candlelight.

Reading Level/Interest Age: 9 to 17, grades 4 and up.

Challenges: None

Reason for including: The idea of creating an apparatus to enable humans to fly in the late Victorian era is mind boggling to me, which is partially why I wanted to read this book. I also just love that time period. I think this book would appeal to both boys and girls with its mixture of action, adventure and heartache.

Climbing the Stairs by Padma Venkatraman

Climbing the Stairs by Padma Venkatraman

Venkatraman, Padma. Climbing the Stairs. G.P. Putnam’s Sons, 2008. 247 pages. $16.99. ISBN 0399247467

Readers Annotation: In WWII India, Vidya comes to terms with her closed-minded aunts and uncles after her father is paralyzed in a “non-violent” protest.

Plot Summary: Vidya lives in tumultuous times in India. Not only were the late 30’s, early 40’s a time of great fear of Hitler and his armies, but also a time during the struggle for India’s independence. Vidya’s father has been secretly aiding the non-violent protestors by providing medical care to those who are injured. She has a good life, a promise of college and an open-minded family. When Vidya’s father is mentally paralyzed by British police during a march, the family moves in with her father’s family. This family isn’t as open minded as her parents and Vidya soon seeks solace from her aunts’ cruelty in her grandfather’s library. Here she meets Raman, a smart young man with a promising future. As the war gets closer, and her brother joins the army, Vidya realizes what she really wants to do with her life.

Critical Evaluation: I was drawn to this book because I never connected India to the rest of the world during WWII. I always imagined they were blissfully unaware of the horrors of the war. I also didn’t realize that their fight for independence from Britain was going on at the same time the British were fighting the Nazis. Venkatraman’s story, which is a mixture of many of her own family’s experiences, opened my eyes to a side of India I’ve never known. When I started the book I discussed it with my husband’s family who are Indian, and they informed me that Vidya means knowledge or wisdom. It is interesting that she gave the main character such a weighty name, when her dream is to attend university and all she wants to do is learn. I was exceedingly frustrated with Vidya’s family for the way the treated her and talked about her disabled father. It was hard to put down because I just wanted to find out if she would pursue her dreams despite the lack of support from her family. This book should be in every YA collection and a must read for those who have an interest in WWII, for a glimpse into another point of view about the war.

Reading Level: The reading level and interest level of this book would be suited for older teens, sixteen and up.
Book talk Ideas: I would read the part of the book where Vidya gets entangled in a protest and her father is brutally attacked. I would then discuss that the peaceful protests during the Indian fight for independence often didn’t remain peaceful. I would also discuss the role the volunteer Indian army had in the Allied forces during WWII.

Why it is included: I chose this book because I’d never read a book that took place during WWII in India. In 208 it was a nominee for the Cybils Young Adult Novels award, a 2009 YALSA best book for young adults, and on several other best books lists.

Challenge Issues: The brutality of Vidya’s father’s attack and the degrading terms her family uses for her mentally disabled father could cause concern. I would argue that with all historical piece the terms and mindset of the characters reflects those of the time and it is beneficial to learn about these prejudices and see where we’ve come.

Pirates!: The True and Remarkable Adventures of Minerva Sharpe and Nancy Kington, Female Pirates by Celia Rees

Pirates!: The True and Remarkable Adventures of Minerva Sharpe and Nancy Kington, Female Pirates by Celia Rees

Rees, Celia. Pirates!: The True and Remarkable Adventures of Minerva Sharpe and Nancy Kington, Female Pirates. Bloomsbury, 2003. 379 pages. $16.95. ISBN 1582348162

Plot Summary: Nancy Kington’s life is turned upside down when her father dies and she is sent to Jamaica to live on the family plantation. Not only is she told she is to marry a man she despises but she is heartbroken by they way the slaves are treated. To escape the arranged marriage and the cruelty of the plantation, Nancy and her friend Minerva, a slave, run away. They find themselves on a pirate ship and soon take their roles among the pirates. Minerva seems best adapted to the pirate life, but Nancy is concerned about her true love and childhood friend, now a Navy officer and every pirate’s enemy. As the reader follows the twist and turns, it would seem that Nancy and Minerva are not just connected by their friendship and swashbuckling ways. The story is full of pirate induced gore, chases on the high seas, and a glimpse into the horrors of both piracy and slavery in the eighteenth century.

Critical Evaluation: Rees creates a unique tale in Pirates, with the decision of the characters to flee their horrible circumstances and become pirates. I’ve heard that there were actually female pirates, but never thought about how a woman would get into such a trade. The situations of Nancy and Minerva, before their escape into piracy, were maddening, mostly because I knew that women were treated this way at one point. When the two girls become pirates and create this tough female persona, I was happy for this small victory for women even though I doubt many women of their time were able to escape like they were. The brutal details of both their lives before and after they ran away make this book suitable for older teens. I felt Rees did a great job creating a believable story with the right mixture of adventure, violence, friendship and love.

Reading Level: This book would be best suited for older teens, ages fifteen to eighteen.

Book talk ideas: After reading a selection from the book I would talk about the strong women Nancy and Minerva portray and it isn’t everyday we read about female pirates. I would also discuss realities of the slave trade.

Why it is included: I chose this book because I had read it before and loved it. I loved the idea of two teenage girls leaving their unhappy lives to become pirates. It is also on several best book lists, won the Thumbs Up! Award in 2004, and won several state given awards.

Challenge issues: The graphic nature of several situations in the novel could be controversial. Again, I would argue the truth behind the story and that it is stories like these that make us appreciate where we are today.

Newes from the Dead by Mary Hooper

Newes from the Dead by Mary Hooper

Hooper, Mary. Newes from the Dead: being a true story of Anne Green, hanged for infanticide at Oxford Assizes in 1650, restored to the world and died again 1665. Roaring Brook Press, 2008. 263 pages. $16.95. ISBN 1596433558

Readers Annotation: After being hanged for murder, Anne Green relives her past while coming to terms with her current state, either being alive or dead. On the outside, the young medical student Robert does what he can to convince the scholars their corpse is in fact alive.

Plot Summary: Anne Green was a kind young woman, but very naïve. Waking up in a dark room, and unable to move, Anne recounts her life of the past year. Working in the house of Lord Thomas she has always done her duty. One day she meets John the apprentice of a local tradesman. After months of walking together, Anne realizes she could be very happy with John. However, when the grandson of Lord Thomas arrives, her life takes a very different course. Geoffrey pays much attention to Anne, getting her to laugh at his jokes and paying her compliments. Finally he seduces her with talk of making her mistress of the household if she only gives him what he wants. After several meetings like this, Anne realizes she must cut ties with John if she is to become mistress of the household. However, Geoffrey goes back to university and Anne finds herself pregnant with no one to turn to. She hides her pregnancy as best she can and waits for Geoffrey’s return so she can tell him the news. But when Geoffrey returns with news of his engagement to another young woman, Anne realizes how foolish she had been. Much too early, Anne goes into labor and gives birth to a stillborn child all alone in the privy. She hides the child in order to give him a proper burial the next day but is found out before she can clean up. Anne is accused of murdering the child and sent to Oxford to be sentenced. Her sentence is to be hanged, and Anne realizes she must be in purgatory, awaiting the fires to cleanse her sins. While Anne recounts her many mistakes, the young scholar Robert is assembled with fellow medical students and doctors preparing to dissect Anne. However, Robert is convinced she is still alive. Soon the rest of the party is convinced and they try everything they can think of to revive her. Will they succeed in reviving poor Anne, whom they recognize as being wrongly accused, or will she remain in the blackness of purgatory forever?

Critical Evaluation: The story of Anne Green is one that everyone should read to gain understanding of the unfair treatment of women in her day, as well as the simple yet effective medical practices they used. Before reading Newes from the Dead, I had never heard of her case. I never thought someone could survive a hanging. Hooper’s portrayal of what I assume to be Anne’s mental state while being in a coma was very creative but yet realistic. The detail Hooper goes into however, involving Anne’s treatment, her birth, and the medical descriptions are quite graphic. There were times I had to stop reading to make the queasiness subside, but then quickly picked the book back up to find out what happened. Even though I thought the book to be very graphic, it needed to be graphic. To tell Anne’s story without going into the details wouldn’t have done it justice. That being said, I don’t think this book would be suitable for teens under fifteen.

Reading Level: This book would best be read by an older teen, sixteen and up, although would be suitable for more mature younger teens.

Book talk ideas: The opening of the book would be the best way to capture the attention of the students. I would discuss that Anne Green’s story is true and deserves to be told because of the wrongs done to her. I would also discuss the relevance to modern times, and that without the studies scholars and doctors of Anne’s time did on cadavers, we wouldn’t be where we are today with modern medicine.

Why it is included: I chose this book because of the interesting point of view, that of Anne who is likely in a coma. Also the fact that it is a true story, and a horrific one at that, was intriguing. In 2009 in was on the Capitol Choices and Outstanding International Books lists.

Challenge Issues: The graphic nature of the sexual references and birth of her still born could cause some controversy. I would argue that it is a true story worthy of being heard, and if they don’t feel comfortable with their teens reading it they shouldn’t let them.

Ivy by Julie Hearn

Ivy by Julie Hearn

Hearn, Julie. Ivy. Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 2008. 355 pages. $17.99. ISBN 1416925066

Readers Annotation: The laudanum addicted Ivy becomes part of the strange Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood as the model of a brotherhood hopeful.

Plot Summary: After running away from her family, Ivy is taken in by Carroty Kate, a cunning thief, and her group of vagabonds. Ivy learns the trade of snatching good clothes to sell off the backs of children, and also develops a dependency on laudanum. After one of their ruses goes horribly wrong, Ivy goes back to her family. Years later, she is spotted by Oscar, a painter who hopes to become part of the Pre-Raphaelite school of painters. Believing that Ivy is his muse, he attempts to secure her as his model. Her family, poor and very greedy, forces her into his employ. Ivy doesn’t like being a model, but must work or be forced back on the streets. Oscar’s mother doesn’t like Ivy as her sons new model either, and makes every attempt to murder the girl. Oscar’s neighbor, none other than the famous Dante Gabriel Rossetti, sees Ivy one day and decides he needs to have her as his own model. Meanwhile, Ivy finds friendship with Rosa, a girl who runs a home for stray dogs with her father. She finds her passion in life when able to care for the dogs. When invited to stay at Kelmscott Manor, the home of William Morris, Ivy intends to go but is imprisoned by Oscar’s jealous mother in hopes that she will over-dose on laudanum. Just when Ivy thinks she will never escape, an unlikely rescue party appears.

Critical Evaluation: I was drawn to this book when I learned that it centered on the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood. I’ve done a few research papers on these artists, and know all of their names and histories. However, I don’t believe the average teenager will recognize the significance of some of the situations in the novel without knowing a bit about the Pre-Raphaelites. Hearn describes the neighbor of Ivy’s employer, discussing his appearance, where he comes from, and the drama associated with him, including digging up his wife’s grave to retrieve a collection of poems. I knew who she was describing, but Hearn never mentioned his name until about ¾ of the way through the novel. Even then, if I remember correctly, she only mentions his last name. Also, when Oscar travels to Kelmscott Manor, Hearn doesn’t directly explain whose manor house it is, and then I believe she only mentions William Morris’s wife’s name. I felt that the book left a lot of guesswork for the reader, if they didn’t have prior knowledge of these artists. That being said, I thought the book was captivating and a very creative glimpse into the lives of Pre-Raphaelite artists, or at least brotherhood hopefuls. She describes the real dangers of laudanum, and makes Ivy such a frustrating character; the reader wants to shake her at times. I think Ivy is a great addition to any YA collection, especially since it seems like the first of its kind.

Reading Level: The reading level of Ivy is high school, fourteen to eighteen, especially because of the drug use.

Book talk ideas: I would read a selection about the state Ivy is in when she is under the influence of laudanum. I would discuss that many people took laudanum as medicine, but it is now considered an hallucinogenic drug. Other books I would suggest include the Gemma Doyle trilogy by Libba Bray, for those interested in the 19th century.

Why it is included: I chose this book mainly for the subject matter. I’d never seen a book, especially a YA book, set in the middle of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood. It was on two best book lists in 2008.

Challenge Issues: I think the drug use in the novel would cause some controversy, however at the time laudanum was taken medicinally. Hearn does not portray Ivy’s use of laudanum in a romanticized manor, instead portrays Ivy as we would portray a pot smoker today. Thus it doesn’t encourage drug use, and therefore is not a risk to impressionable minds.

The Red Necklace by Sally Gardner

The Red Necklace by Sally Gardner

Gardner, Sally. The Red Necklace. Dial Books, 2007. 378 pages. $16.99. ISBN 0803731004

Readers Annotation: Suddenly reunited with her estranged father, Sido becomes entangled with a gypsy boy named Yann. In the midst of murder, deceit and love they realize how important they are to one another over the next few years.

Plot Summary: Twelve-year-old Sido was never loved by her father, Marquis de Villeduval. After being away in a convent for years, her father suddenly calls her back to him. This is no kind gesture, however, as his intentions of marrying her off to the evil Count Kalliovski as soon as she is old enough. Also invited to the marquis estate are three magicians, Topelain, Tetu and Fifteen-year-old Yann. While exploring the estate, Yann meets Sido and the two feel drawn to each other. After Count Kalliovski murders Topelain, Yann and Tetu must flee. Yann must make his journey to London alone when his beloved Tetu is killed. After having his palm read by a fellow Romany, Yann rejects his heritage and learns to live as a proper Englishman. Meanwhile, Sido and her father face much danger as aristocracy during the revolution in France. Later, when Yann is seventeen he is called back to Paris to save Sido, and reclaims his Romany heritage. But will the palm reader’s prophecy come true? Is a bullet waiting for Yann back in Paris, or will his love for Sido keep him alive?

Critical Evaluation: The Red Necklace was an exciting read that I could not put down. Although the characters are introduced at a young age, the events that surround Sido and Yann are not those that average twelve and fourteen year olds will grasp. Sido’s imprisonment and forced engagement to such an evil man at twelve, at least in today’s standards, is unheard of. Yann, who never knew his real parents, lives the life of a magician and is forced to flee and deal with the loss of the only family he knew. The French Revolution in general is a difficult period to discuss without feeling nauseous at the thought of the living conditions of the average Frenchman, and how many people met with the Guillotine. Gardner, while she does not gloss over these realities, seems to dilute them a little instead focusing on the maturity of Sido and Yann. While The Red Necklace may be considered a Historical Fantasy with Yann’s ability to read minds and move objects, but I felt that this story was more focused on history than the fantastical. There have always been those with special gifts, and always been magician seeking their newest biggest trick. It was interesting to read a different kind of story of the revolution.

Reading Level: The reading level of the novel is definitely that of twelve to fifteen year olds, but the subject matter would be suitable for fourteen to eighteen.

Book talk ideas: Read a selection from the book, like the scene in the marquis’ library in which the antagonist murders Yann’s magician employer. Discuss the difference between stage magic and fantasy magic and why this wouldn’t necessarily be a fantasy novel. Many people have special gifts, such as being able to read palms. Is it fair to say that people who say they can read minds are lying just because we may not be able to do it ourselves?

Why it is included: I chose The Red Necklace because of the range of characters in the story. I knew if involved a Romany boy, and found this to be an interesting plotline for a book about the French Revolution. It is on the YALSA 2009 Best Books for Young Adults list, as well as four others. It was also a 2008 Cybils nominee for Young Adult Fantasy and Science Fiction.

Challenge issues: Some controversial topics could include the engagement of Sido at such a young age to a much older man. In defense of this I would argue that girls often got married, or engaged at a young age and it wasn’t until the 20th century that this practice became looked down upon, especially once women were able to get a higher education.

Little Women by Louisa May Alcott

Little Women by Louisa May Alcott

Alcott, Louisa May. Little Women. Barnes and Noble Books, 2004. 327 pages. $4.95. ISBN 076075084X

Readers Annotation: The March sisters, Meg, Jo, Beth and Amy face many challenges but learn to overcome them during the American Civil War.

Plot Summary: In this Civil War classic, the March sisters learn to make the most of what they are given. After their father loses his fortune they are forced to make do with what they have, but Meg, Jo and Amy dearly miss the fortune they once had. Beth seems to be the only one who is content with living at home and playing her music. Meg finds love in the modest tutor of their neighbor Laurie, while Amy seeks love in the rich friends of Laurie. Jo wants fame as a writer but it isn’t until she meets Professor Bhaer and after the death of her beloved Beth that she begins to write from her heart. It isn’t until later that the sisters find what truly makes them happy.

Critical Evaluation: Although published in the 1860s, Little Women is still widely read among modern women and girls. It has been made into several movies, and has many spin-off novels and non-fiction based on it. The struggles of the March sisters can be felt in almost any family, if only their sisterly love and quarrels. In the twenty-first century, especially in light of recent misfortune in the American economy, I have a feeling their story will have an even greater effect on many young women today. Alcott was able to write a story, which is based upon her own life, which has stood the test of time. It captures the reader and makes one feel as if the March sisters are their own sisters. I feel that Little Women, which could in fact be read by a twelve-year-old or a thirty-year-old, is a novel that all young women should read, especially in their teens when they are figuring out their own lives and dreams.

Reading Level: The reading level of this novel is closer to middle school age than our fifteen to eighteen range, but the interest level of Little Women would suit teens from thirteen to eighteen.

Book talk ideas: Begin by reading a passage, I would read the first chapter. This chapter is essentially a conversation between the sisters, an average moment in their lives, and the reader gets a feel for each of their personalities. Then talk about how teens during the late 1800s weren’t all that different from teens today, they fought with their siblings, had goals and ambitions, dealt with war. Explain that just because a book was published a century ago doesn’t make it less appealing, or less worthy of their time.

Why it is included: I chose this book for the genre study because it is a classic, one that girls read over and over again. I felt that many older books aren’t considered worthy of a teen’s time, but they offer just as much as modern historical fiction, if not more because they’re a direct reflection of the time.