* Bibliographic information
Swift, T. Fearless [Music CD]. Big Machine Records, 2008.
- Nominated for eight Grammy Awards (52nd Grammy Awards Show)
* Plot Summary
19-year-old Swift sings songs that teens can relate to because she is a teen. Her songs are about high school, boys, love, being cheated on and romantic fairy tales; things most female teens think about. The title track, on Swift’s second album, “Fearless” is about a girl so in love with a boy she will “dance in the rain in her best dress”. The track “Fifteen” covers what it is like to start high school and the innocence that allows you to believe an older boy when he tells you he loves you. “Love Story” and “White Horse” are songs of love told through Romeo and Juliet and the fairy tale of a princess and a white horse. Taylor Swift captures the essence of what it is like to be young, in love, and in high school.
* Critical Evaluation
A truly fun album to listen to; Taylor Swift has made another great album. For teens, it will give them the feeling there is someone out there who has gone through the same events as them. For adults, this CD will take them back to high school and young love. The songs are catchy and suck people in; before they know it they are singing along. Swift is a healthy role model for teen girls because she dresses appropriate for her age and is always nice to her fans. She has made it this far because she knows how to make music people want to hear and because she is a genuine person who does not get wrapped up in her own hype. I recommend this CD to all teen girls; even those who do not like country will enjoy these melodic songs.
* Reader’s Annotation
Taylor Swift’s take on high school, love and boys who cheat. A great listen for anyone in high school or for those who want to go back and remember what it was like.
* Information about the singer-songwriter
Taylor Swift has really made a name for herself in the past two years; she is a country-pop singer-songwriter, guitarist and actress. It was announced last week that she is nominated in eight different Grammy categories; she is definitely living the dream. She is nineteen but was signed to a record label at the age of sixteen. She has two albums out and says “she likes to “put something on the album that’s personal” because she knows she will have to deal with it later. On this album she proved she was fearless as the title of the album says, by putting a song called “Stephen” on it in which she talks about a crush she has on him. She says he is a real person and no, he never knew she had a crush on him; not until the album was released. To find out more about Taylor Swift, go to her website, http://www.taylorswift.com/.
* Genre
Country-Pop; Teen Issues
* Curriculum Ties, if any
N/A
* Booktalking Ideas
1) Talk about the title of the album, Fearless; in what ways is Taylor Swift fearless?
2) In the song “Fifteen,” Swift talks about her first year of high school. What parts can you relate to?
3) Swift writes about specific people in some of her songs. How would you feel if someone you know included you in one of their songs?
* Interest Age
13 and Up
* Challenge Issues and Defense
N/A
* Why did you include this book in your titles you selected?
I included this selection in my collection because I honestly believe that teens will both enjoy and benefit from this album. Many teens listen to music that represent negative aspects of life or music they cannot relate to on a personal level. Swifts words come from her feelings and real experiences and she sings about them in a healthy, positive way. I also like that she is so honest in her music and in interviews. She appears to be the same girl from her songs; a hopeless romantic.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Zombie Blondes
* Bibliographic information
James, B. Zombie Blondes. Feiwel and Friends, 2008. ISBN: 9780312373989.
* Plot Summary
Hannah and her Dad move from town to town running from her Dad’s problems. They have seen many towns but none like the one they have just moved to, Maplecrest. Everyone zones out when the high school’s cheerleaders and football team are near. Other teams fear them because of the violence they use on the field to win. On Hannah’s first day of school a strange loner boy named Lukas warns her of these perfect people and worries they will try to make her one of them because of her beauty. Hannah thinks he is joking with her when he tells her they are zombies but she cannot fight the feeling that they are different somehow. Hannah ignores her inside voice because she finally gets the chance to join their cheerleading squad and fit in; she also ignores Lukas’ pleas to stay away from them. When her Dad leaves her alone for two weeks, Hannah is welcomed with open arms into the family of perfect cheerleaders and gains a boyfriend dreams are made of. Hannah starts to wonder if it is all too perfect when she notices the other students do not look at them with awe, only fear.
* Critical Evaluation
This book is a light, easy read; great for fans of horror movies. The writing is very easy to follow and the story is not very complex, but it is entertaining. The reader will wonder the whole way through if the cheerleaders really are zombies, or if Lukas is crazy like Hannah thinks he is. This would be a great book for a reluctant reader who just wants something entertaining to read, especially if they love monsters and zombies. This would not be a good book for someone looking for a reading or thinking challenge. This book does not cover any complex issues unless the person fears their town is overrun with zombies. The words and plot are simple but many teens will like this book because of the zombie aspect to it. How many students already wonder if their school’s cheerleaders and football players are monsters?
* Reader’s Annotation
Hannah is tired of moving from town to town because of her father’s past and is happy when she finds a school where she might really fit in with the popular crowd. That is if she is okay with the possibility that they might be zombies.
* Information about the author
James lives in New York and has written many kids books in addition to several novels. He likes to read, draw, watch cartoons and sci-fi movies, and he collects toys/action figures. James wanted to be a Jedi when he grew up but of course it never happened. He has a blog at http://brianjamestheauthor.blogspot.com/.
* Genre
Teen Fiction; Horror, Zombies
* Curriculum Ties, if any
N/A
* Booktalking Ideas
1) Why do you think Hannah kept ignoring her instincts about the cheerleaders being different?
2) At the end of the book the author leaves it open, do you think Hannah’s Dad will become a zombie?
3) Talk about the townspeople, did they know about the zombies all along? If so, why did they do nothing to stop them?
* Reading Level/Interest Age
Grade 7 and Up / 14 and Up
* Challenge Issues and Defense
N/A
* Why did you include this book in your titles you selected?
This book was chosen strictly because of the title. I read the title one day when I was shelving at the library and started laughing. I thought this was one of the best titles ever so I decided I had to read it. I selected it for this blog because I really enjoyed it. The book was not educational and it did not enrich my life by teaching me any lessons or about another culture but it did entertain me. Sometimes it is great to read a book that is just fun and this one did the trick.
James, B. Zombie Blondes. Feiwel and Friends, 2008. ISBN: 9780312373989.
* Plot Summary
Hannah and her Dad move from town to town running from her Dad’s problems. They have seen many towns but none like the one they have just moved to, Maplecrest. Everyone zones out when the high school’s cheerleaders and football team are near. Other teams fear them because of the violence they use on the field to win. On Hannah’s first day of school a strange loner boy named Lukas warns her of these perfect people and worries they will try to make her one of them because of her beauty. Hannah thinks he is joking with her when he tells her they are zombies but she cannot fight the feeling that they are different somehow. Hannah ignores her inside voice because she finally gets the chance to join their cheerleading squad and fit in; she also ignores Lukas’ pleas to stay away from them. When her Dad leaves her alone for two weeks, Hannah is welcomed with open arms into the family of perfect cheerleaders and gains a boyfriend dreams are made of. Hannah starts to wonder if it is all too perfect when she notices the other students do not look at them with awe, only fear.
* Critical Evaluation
This book is a light, easy read; great for fans of horror movies. The writing is very easy to follow and the story is not very complex, but it is entertaining. The reader will wonder the whole way through if the cheerleaders really are zombies, or if Lukas is crazy like Hannah thinks he is. This would be a great book for a reluctant reader who just wants something entertaining to read, especially if they love monsters and zombies. This would not be a good book for someone looking for a reading or thinking challenge. This book does not cover any complex issues unless the person fears their town is overrun with zombies. The words and plot are simple but many teens will like this book because of the zombie aspect to it. How many students already wonder if their school’s cheerleaders and football players are monsters?
* Reader’s Annotation
Hannah is tired of moving from town to town because of her father’s past and is happy when she finds a school where she might really fit in with the popular crowd. That is if she is okay with the possibility that they might be zombies.
* Information about the author
James lives in New York and has written many kids books in addition to several novels. He likes to read, draw, watch cartoons and sci-fi movies, and he collects toys/action figures. James wanted to be a Jedi when he grew up but of course it never happened. He has a blog at http://brianjamestheauthor.blogspot.com/.
* Genre
Teen Fiction; Horror, Zombies
* Curriculum Ties, if any
N/A
* Booktalking Ideas
1) Why do you think Hannah kept ignoring her instincts about the cheerleaders being different?
2) At the end of the book the author leaves it open, do you think Hannah’s Dad will become a zombie?
3) Talk about the townspeople, did they know about the zombies all along? If so, why did they do nothing to stop them?
* Reading Level/Interest Age
Grade 7 and Up / 14 and Up
* Challenge Issues and Defense
N/A
* Why did you include this book in your titles you selected?
This book was chosen strictly because of the title. I read the title one day when I was shelving at the library and started laughing. I thought this was one of the best titles ever so I decided I had to read it. I selected it for this blog because I really enjoyed it. The book was not educational and it did not enrich my life by teaching me any lessons or about another culture but it did entertain me. Sometimes it is great to read a book that is just fun and this one did the trick.
Speak (Audio Book)
* Bibliographic information
Anderson, L. H. Speak. Random House Audio Publishing Group, 2000. ISBN 1-4000-8998-0. Read by Mandy Siegfried.
-National Book Award Finalist
-Winner of the Michael L. Printz award for Excellence in Young Adult Literature by the American Library Association.
-New York Times Bestseller
-Booklist “Top 10 First Novels of 1999”
* Plot Summary
Melinda thought her first year in high school would be great, especially when an older boy started talking to her at a summer party before the school year started. She had no idea that moment would change her life forever. After being raped, Melinda called the cops but never spoke about the incident. She entered high school as the girl who called the cops on a great party. Melinda loses all of her friends and her life; she shuts down and stops talking; except for a few words here and there. Meanwhile, one of her friends from junior high starts dating the boy who assaulted her. This motivates Melinda to finally face what happened and talk about it. Throughout the book people try to get Melinda to speak but she never does, not until she deals with what happened and decides to get past it.
* Critical Evaluation
This is an amazing story told through a very lonely teenager. Throughout the story she will not speak no matter how much people want her to. This aspect of the story is really brought to life with the audio book format. Mandy Siegfried captures the essence of a young adult who has gone through something horrendous all by herself. The reader feels for Melinda; the writing is spot on. The author lets us into Melinda’s head; allowing us to see the real damage of the events leading up to this point in her life. Anderson knows how teenagers think, that is why this character’s is so important for young adults to read. What happened to Melinda could, and has, happened to so many young girls; the story is extremely relevant and important. After reading a bit of the book and listening to all of the audio book it was apparent that the reading of the audio book aided in the character’s telling of situations. Seeing the blank spaces where Melinda said nothing was not as powerful as the reader saying, “Me, ‘silence’” every time Melinda was supposed to respond to someone talking to her. The absence of words can only be imagined but having a reader clearly display what is occurring makes it more real and more personal.
* Reader’s Annotation
Melinda experienced something horrible and lost all her friends in the same night. She now stays silent; refusing to speak.
* Information about the author
Anderson grew up in Northern New York but now lives in Central New York with her second husband. She has two daughters from her first marriage and a German Shepherd. She likes to run marathons and hike in her spare time. In her young adult years she worked on a pig farm, then a dairy farm which made her become a vegetarian. She graduated from Georgetown University in 1984 with a B.S.L.L in Language and Linguistics. Anderson has written many books, and was in the midst of writing Fever 1793 when she took a break and wrote the award winning Speak in 1999. Speak has been used in high school curriculums throughout the country. For more information about the author, check out her website: http://www.writerlady.com/
* Genre
Teen Fiction; Mental, Emotional and Behavioral Issues
* Curriculum Ties, if any
English:
According to the English–Language Arts Content Standards for California Public Schools, found at http://curriculum.suhsd.k12.ca.us/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=51&Itemid=66, this book would tie into the Literary Response and Analysis part of the curriculum, the student must “Analyze interactions between main and subordinate characters in a literary text (e.g., internal and external conflicts, motivations, relationships, influences) and explain the way those interactions affect the plot” (p.57). The interactions in this book are so important to the entire story and the plot is one that many teenagers should be familiar with, if they are not already. The event that takes place which causes Melinda to choose silence happens so often and in many cases is never reported. Students need to be aware of this issue; this book is a great way to address it.
* Booktalking Ideas
1) Talk about Melinda’s scabbed lips and what that says about her internal turmoil.
2) Why do you think Ivy finally decides to talk to Melinda?
3) Discuss Melinda’s silence and how things would be different if she had spoken sooner.
4) Look at the difference between the characters, Melinda and David Petrakis, why does Melinda grow feelings for him?
* Reading Level/Interest Age
Grade 8 and up/ 14 and up
* Challenge Issues and Defense
Challenge Issues: rape, sexual harassment, bullying, and violence.
Defense ideas:
1) Ask the patron about the book and issue in question and find out how much they know about the book.
2) Help the patron become more familiar with the book and its content.
3) Show the patron positive reviews for this book, such as ones found on amazon.com; School Library Journal and Library Journal, http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/product-description/073933672X/ref=dp_proddesc_0?ie=UTF8&n=283155&s=books.
4) If available, introduce the patron to people who have read it in the library or tell the patron what you thought of the book if you have read it.
5) Show the patron the collection development policy for that particular library. For example, the one for the San Diego County library, http://dbpcosdcsgt.co.san-diego.ca.us/screens/Intranet/policy/sdcl-policy_O.41_material-selection.pdf
6) If they still want to file a grievance about the book begin the necessary paperwork by giving them the forms they need to fill out. In the San Diego County system, the grievance will then go to The Challenged Materials Team. If the committee cannot resolve the issue, it then goes to the County Library Director for a final decision. http://dbpcosdcsgt.co.san-diego.ca.us/screens/Intranet/policy/sdcl-policy_O.34_intellectual_freedom.pdf
* Why did you include this book in your titles you selected?
This book was a no brainer for this collection of titles. Looking at young adult literature there need to be stories that address important issues among teens. This book talks about a very important issue that is often unreported, as in the book, and does it through a very relatable character. Melinda is very witty; her point of view although sad, is still fun to read. The way she dissects high school gives teens even more to relate too. Anyone who has ever been to high school will appreciate Melinda’s lists of “Lies They Tell You in High School”. The character is very well written; teens will listen to what she has to say even if she chooses not to say it out loud.
Anderson, L. H. Speak. Random House Audio Publishing Group, 2000. ISBN 1-4000-8998-0. Read by Mandy Siegfried.
-National Book Award Finalist
-Winner of the Michael L. Printz award for Excellence in Young Adult Literature by the American Library Association.
-New York Times Bestseller
-Booklist “Top 10 First Novels of 1999”
* Plot Summary
Melinda thought her first year in high school would be great, especially when an older boy started talking to her at a summer party before the school year started. She had no idea that moment would change her life forever. After being raped, Melinda called the cops but never spoke about the incident. She entered high school as the girl who called the cops on a great party. Melinda loses all of her friends and her life; she shuts down and stops talking; except for a few words here and there. Meanwhile, one of her friends from junior high starts dating the boy who assaulted her. This motivates Melinda to finally face what happened and talk about it. Throughout the book people try to get Melinda to speak but she never does, not until she deals with what happened and decides to get past it.
* Critical Evaluation
This is an amazing story told through a very lonely teenager. Throughout the story she will not speak no matter how much people want her to. This aspect of the story is really brought to life with the audio book format. Mandy Siegfried captures the essence of a young adult who has gone through something horrendous all by herself. The reader feels for Melinda; the writing is spot on. The author lets us into Melinda’s head; allowing us to see the real damage of the events leading up to this point in her life. Anderson knows how teenagers think, that is why this character’s is so important for young adults to read. What happened to Melinda could, and has, happened to so many young girls; the story is extremely relevant and important. After reading a bit of the book and listening to all of the audio book it was apparent that the reading of the audio book aided in the character’s telling of situations. Seeing the blank spaces where Melinda said nothing was not as powerful as the reader saying, “Me, ‘silence’” every time Melinda was supposed to respond to someone talking to her. The absence of words can only be imagined but having a reader clearly display what is occurring makes it more real and more personal.
* Reader’s Annotation
Melinda experienced something horrible and lost all her friends in the same night. She now stays silent; refusing to speak.
* Information about the author
Anderson grew up in Northern New York but now lives in Central New York with her second husband. She has two daughters from her first marriage and a German Shepherd. She likes to run marathons and hike in her spare time. In her young adult years she worked on a pig farm, then a dairy farm which made her become a vegetarian. She graduated from Georgetown University in 1984 with a B.S.L.L in Language and Linguistics. Anderson has written many books, and was in the midst of writing Fever 1793 when she took a break and wrote the award winning Speak in 1999. Speak has been used in high school curriculums throughout the country. For more information about the author, check out her website: http://www.writerlady.com/
* Genre
Teen Fiction; Mental, Emotional and Behavioral Issues
* Curriculum Ties, if any
English:
According to the English–Language Arts Content Standards for California Public Schools, found at http://curriculum.suhsd.k12.ca.us/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=51&Itemid=66, this book would tie into the Literary Response and Analysis part of the curriculum, the student must “Analyze interactions between main and subordinate characters in a literary text (e.g., internal and external conflicts, motivations, relationships, influences) and explain the way those interactions affect the plot” (p.57). The interactions in this book are so important to the entire story and the plot is one that many teenagers should be familiar with, if they are not already. The event that takes place which causes Melinda to choose silence happens so often and in many cases is never reported. Students need to be aware of this issue; this book is a great way to address it.
* Booktalking Ideas
1) Talk about Melinda’s scabbed lips and what that says about her internal turmoil.
2) Why do you think Ivy finally decides to talk to Melinda?
3) Discuss Melinda’s silence and how things would be different if she had spoken sooner.
4) Look at the difference between the characters, Melinda and David Petrakis, why does Melinda grow feelings for him?
* Reading Level/Interest Age
Grade 8 and up/ 14 and up
* Challenge Issues and Defense
Challenge Issues: rape, sexual harassment, bullying, and violence.
Defense ideas:
1) Ask the patron about the book and issue in question and find out how much they know about the book.
2) Help the patron become more familiar with the book and its content.
3) Show the patron positive reviews for this book, such as ones found on amazon.com; School Library Journal and Library Journal, http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/product-description/073933672X/ref=dp_proddesc_0?ie=UTF8&n=283155&s=books.
4) If available, introduce the patron to people who have read it in the library or tell the patron what you thought of the book if you have read it.
5) Show the patron the collection development policy for that particular library. For example, the one for the San Diego County library, http://dbpcosdcsgt.co.san-diego.ca.us/screens/Intranet/policy/sdcl-policy_O.41_material-selection.pdf
6) If they still want to file a grievance about the book begin the necessary paperwork by giving them the forms they need to fill out. In the San Diego County system, the grievance will then go to The Challenged Materials Team. If the committee cannot resolve the issue, it then goes to the County Library Director for a final decision. http://dbpcosdcsgt.co.san-diego.ca.us/screens/Intranet/policy/sdcl-policy_O.34_intellectual_freedom.pdf
* Why did you include this book in your titles you selected?
This book was a no brainer for this collection of titles. Looking at young adult literature there need to be stories that address important issues among teens. This book talks about a very important issue that is often unreported, as in the book, and does it through a very relatable character. Melinda is very witty; her point of view although sad, is still fun to read. The way she dissects high school gives teens even more to relate too. Anyone who has ever been to high school will appreciate Melinda’s lists of “Lies They Tell You in High School”. The character is very well written; teens will listen to what she has to say even if she chooses not to say it out loud.
The Chocolate War
* Bibliographic information
Cormier, R. The Chocolate War. Random House, Inc., 1974. ISBN 0-394-82805-4.
- ALA Best Books for Young Adults
- School Library Journal Best Books of the Year
- A Kirkus Reviews Choice
- New York Times Outstanding Books of the Year
* Plot Summary
Jerry Renault has just started high school and is trying out for the football team. Jerry continues to take blows from the rest of the football team because he wants to be on the team more than anything. Jerry soon realizes that football is not his only worry when the “Vigils” come to him with an “assignment”. The Vigils are the unofficial rulers of the school and Archie is the mastermind behind them. Brother Leon, the acting head of the school even allows the Vigils to do as they want, as long as they help him with his chocolate sale to raise money for the school. Jerry takes the Vigil’s assignment of refusing to sell chocolate even though it angers Brother Leon. Archie gives Jerry a date to start selling the chocolate but when the time come Jerry still refuses. At first Jerry does not understand his own choice but digs in his heels more when the Vigils tell him he must sell the chocolate. In this school, going against the Vigils is unheard of; Jerry must deal with the disturbing consequences that follow.
* Critical Evaluation
This book was originally published in 1974 but has become very popular for positive and negative reasons. This book looks at high school in a gritty light but it shows the truth of what exists on school campuses even today. Even though the book portrays real problems, in a real way, the book still faces many issues. Many people have tried to ban this book because of its language. Real boys do not always use pleasant language; this is why the book is true to the characters, but also why it angers some people. There is also violence and the abnormal ending that make people want to censor it. Most books have a nice ending all wrapped up for the readers; not this one. Not all the characters learn a lesson and the bad guys do not get what is coming to them as in most books about bullies. There is violence in the book and it is overlooked by Brother Leon who is supposed to watch out for the kids and be a man of the cloth. Cormier tells an important story and does it in a way that really opens the reader’s eyes to the issue; he takes the gloves and the blinders off.
* Reader’s Annotation
In a school where the “Vigils” rule by fear and the headmaster supports their every move, Jerry decides to take a stand and go against them all. Jerry soon finds himself alone, pit against the entire school.
* Information about the author
Robert Cormier was born in 1925 and died in 2000 but not before receiving an award for his writing in Young Adult Literature in 1991; the Margaret A. Edwards Award. He lived in Leominster, Massachusetts his entire life; he had a wife and four kids. Cormier wrote for radio and a newspaper for many years in addition to traveling the world speaking at academic engagements. In interviews he claims to be interested in intimidation and manipulation. Cormier wrote many novels; they all showed a darker side of humanity that make some uncomfortable. His books are widely praised and widely challenged. He was an amazing writer who pushed people to think deeply about issues without giving them a happy ending to fall back on. More can be found on this author at Amazon.com, http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/product-description/0440944597/ref=dp_proddesc_0?ie=UTF8&n=283155&s=books; I was not able to find an official website for this author.
* Genre
Teen Fiction; Issues, Bullying
* Curriculum Ties, if any
English:
According to the English–Language Arts Content Standards for California Public Schools, found at http://curriculum.suhsd.k12.ca.us/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=51&Itemid=66, this book would tie into the Literary Response and Analysis part of the curriculum, the student must “Determine characters’ traits by what the characters say about themselves in narration, dialogue, dramatic monologue, and soliloquy” (p.57). This book would be a great addition to a class’ curriculum because it talks about an issue that is so prevalent in high schools. Students could relate to the different characters in the story and the main characters problem. Many students struggle with the decision to be a part of the mainstream or to take a stand and be independent.
* Booktalking Ideas
1) Do you think Jerry made the best choice in continuing to refuse the chocolate sales?
2) What do you think Archie will be doing five years after high school?
3) Discuss the relationship between Obie and Archie, why does Obie continue to do Archie’s bidding when he clearly hates him?
4) Talk about the connection between the death of Jerry’s mother and his need to join the football team and ignore the Vigil’s requests.
* Reading Level/Interest Age
Grade 8 and up/ 14 and up
* Challenge Issues and Defense
Challenge Issues: Language, bullying, violence, Catholic school and teachers being shown in a negative light.
Defense ideas:
1) Ask the patron about the book and issue in question and find out how much they know about the book.
2) Help the patron become more familiar with the book and its content.
3) Show the patron positive reviews for this book, such as ones found on amazon.com; School Library Journal and the New York Times, http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/product-description/0440944597/ref=dp_proddesc_0/189-7670131-2329618?ie=UTF8&n=283155&s=books.
4) If available, introduce the patron to people who have read it in the library or tell the patron what you thought of the book if you have read it.
5) Show the patron the collection development policy for that particular library. For example, the one for the San Diego County library, http://dbpcosdcsgt.co.san-diego.ca.us/screens/Intranet/policy/sdcl-policy_O.41_material-selection.pdf
6) If they still want to file a grievance about the book begin the necessary paperwork by giving them the forms they need to fill out. In the San Diego County system, the grievance will then go to The Challenged Materials Team. If the committee cannot resolve the issue, it then goes to the County Library Director for a final decision. http://dbpcosdcsgt.co.san-diego.ca.us/screens/Intranet/policy/sdcl-policy_O.34_intellectual_freedom.pdf
* Why did you include this book in your titles you selected?
I included this book in my blog because it was recommended to me by a Young Adult Librarian who told me it is one of the books that is frequently challenged; I had to read it. Once I read it, I knew it had to be included because it tells a story that is so common in high schools but is never shown so realistically. The author tells it in a way that is similar to the point of view of a young adult. The language used and the use of multiple characters to portray the issue is very fascinating; it draws the reader in and pushes the situation in their face. There are many books that feature bullies, but there are none with an ending like this book.
Cormier, R. The Chocolate War. Random House, Inc., 1974. ISBN 0-394-82805-4.
- ALA Best Books for Young Adults
- School Library Journal Best Books of the Year
- A Kirkus Reviews Choice
- New York Times Outstanding Books of the Year
* Plot Summary
Jerry Renault has just started high school and is trying out for the football team. Jerry continues to take blows from the rest of the football team because he wants to be on the team more than anything. Jerry soon realizes that football is not his only worry when the “Vigils” come to him with an “assignment”. The Vigils are the unofficial rulers of the school and Archie is the mastermind behind them. Brother Leon, the acting head of the school even allows the Vigils to do as they want, as long as they help him with his chocolate sale to raise money for the school. Jerry takes the Vigil’s assignment of refusing to sell chocolate even though it angers Brother Leon. Archie gives Jerry a date to start selling the chocolate but when the time come Jerry still refuses. At first Jerry does not understand his own choice but digs in his heels more when the Vigils tell him he must sell the chocolate. In this school, going against the Vigils is unheard of; Jerry must deal with the disturbing consequences that follow.
* Critical Evaluation
This book was originally published in 1974 but has become very popular for positive and negative reasons. This book looks at high school in a gritty light but it shows the truth of what exists on school campuses even today. Even though the book portrays real problems, in a real way, the book still faces many issues. Many people have tried to ban this book because of its language. Real boys do not always use pleasant language; this is why the book is true to the characters, but also why it angers some people. There is also violence and the abnormal ending that make people want to censor it. Most books have a nice ending all wrapped up for the readers; not this one. Not all the characters learn a lesson and the bad guys do not get what is coming to them as in most books about bullies. There is violence in the book and it is overlooked by Brother Leon who is supposed to watch out for the kids and be a man of the cloth. Cormier tells an important story and does it in a way that really opens the reader’s eyes to the issue; he takes the gloves and the blinders off.
* Reader’s Annotation
In a school where the “Vigils” rule by fear and the headmaster supports their every move, Jerry decides to take a stand and go against them all. Jerry soon finds himself alone, pit against the entire school.
* Information about the author
Robert Cormier was born in 1925 and died in 2000 but not before receiving an award for his writing in Young Adult Literature in 1991; the Margaret A. Edwards Award. He lived in Leominster, Massachusetts his entire life; he had a wife and four kids. Cormier wrote for radio and a newspaper for many years in addition to traveling the world speaking at academic engagements. In interviews he claims to be interested in intimidation and manipulation. Cormier wrote many novels; they all showed a darker side of humanity that make some uncomfortable. His books are widely praised and widely challenged. He was an amazing writer who pushed people to think deeply about issues without giving them a happy ending to fall back on. More can be found on this author at Amazon.com, http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/product-description/0440944597/ref=dp_proddesc_0?ie=UTF8&n=283155&s=books; I was not able to find an official website for this author.
* Genre
Teen Fiction; Issues, Bullying
* Curriculum Ties, if any
English:
According to the English–Language Arts Content Standards for California Public Schools, found at http://curriculum.suhsd.k12.ca.us/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=51&Itemid=66, this book would tie into the Literary Response and Analysis part of the curriculum, the student must “Determine characters’ traits by what the characters say about themselves in narration, dialogue, dramatic monologue, and soliloquy” (p.57). This book would be a great addition to a class’ curriculum because it talks about an issue that is so prevalent in high schools. Students could relate to the different characters in the story and the main characters problem. Many students struggle with the decision to be a part of the mainstream or to take a stand and be independent.
* Booktalking Ideas
1) Do you think Jerry made the best choice in continuing to refuse the chocolate sales?
2) What do you think Archie will be doing five years after high school?
3) Discuss the relationship between Obie and Archie, why does Obie continue to do Archie’s bidding when he clearly hates him?
4) Talk about the connection between the death of Jerry’s mother and his need to join the football team and ignore the Vigil’s requests.
* Reading Level/Interest Age
Grade 8 and up/ 14 and up
* Challenge Issues and Defense
Challenge Issues: Language, bullying, violence, Catholic school and teachers being shown in a negative light.
Defense ideas:
1) Ask the patron about the book and issue in question and find out how much they know about the book.
2) Help the patron become more familiar with the book and its content.
3) Show the patron positive reviews for this book, such as ones found on amazon.com; School Library Journal and the New York Times, http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/product-description/0440944597/ref=dp_proddesc_0/189-7670131-2329618?ie=UTF8&n=283155&s=books.
4) If available, introduce the patron to people who have read it in the library or tell the patron what you thought of the book if you have read it.
5) Show the patron the collection development policy for that particular library. For example, the one for the San Diego County library, http://dbpcosdcsgt.co.san-diego.ca.us/screens/Intranet/policy/sdcl-policy_O.41_material-selection.pdf
6) If they still want to file a grievance about the book begin the necessary paperwork by giving them the forms they need to fill out. In the San Diego County system, the grievance will then go to The Challenged Materials Team. If the committee cannot resolve the issue, it then goes to the County Library Director for a final decision. http://dbpcosdcsgt.co.san-diego.ca.us/screens/Intranet/policy/sdcl-policy_O.34_intellectual_freedom.pdf
* Why did you include this book in your titles you selected?
I included this book in my blog because it was recommended to me by a Young Adult Librarian who told me it is one of the books that is frequently challenged; I had to read it. Once I read it, I knew it had to be included because it tells a story that is so common in high schools but is never shown so realistically. The author tells it in a way that is similar to the point of view of a young adult. The language used and the use of multiple characters to portray the issue is very fascinating; it draws the reader in and pushes the situation in their face. There are many books that feature bullies, but there are none with an ending like this book.
Luna
* Bibliographic information
Peters, J. A. Luna. Little, Brown and Company, 2006. ISBN-10: 0-316-01127-4
- National Book Award Finalist
- ALA Best Book for Young Adults, 2005
* Plot Summary
Regan is trying to live a normal teenage life but is constantly distracted from it by her brother Liam, or as Regan knows her; Luna. Luna wants to live as a woman because that is how she feels but she was born into a male body. Luna struggles with hiding her true identity everyday; she feels like she is suffocating. The only person Luna can talk to about her problems is her sister, Regan. Regan knows this and feels the pressure to always be there for Luna no matter if it means putting herself second. This book shows the struggle of a transgender teenager through the eyes of a sister who loves her brother but is also at times embarrassed by him and his issues. Regan wants to be a normal teen and date boys but finds it hard because she is always worrying about Luna’s well being. Regan also worries that people will find out about Luna and she will suffer the consequences for the rest of high school.
* Critical Evaluation
This book and its genre are so important for teens. Many teens are struggling with this very problem and need something to guide them or make them feel less isolated. This book is also important in teaching young adults to have an open mind. The author did a great job of telling Luna’s story. Telling it through the sister gave readers another voice to be heard other than just Luna’s; both are important. In using the sister, Peters gave readers a character that most could relate to. Luna would be hard for many teens to relate with but most can identify with Regan and wanting to fit in with others in high school but at the same time wanting to be there for a friend or family member. The writing is wonderful and really gives the impression of a young adult woman’s feelings. The reader gets to see the struggle that Regan has between her life and Luna’s and wanting to be part of both.
* Reader’s Annotation
Regan is putting her life on hold out of love; she is distracted by the transformation of her brother from Liam to Luna; the woman he always thought he should be.
* Information about the author
Julie Ann Peters grew up in, and still lives in Colorado. Peters lives there with her partner and enjoys staying at home but visiting places with her mind. Writing was her third try at a career. She first tried teaching but was fired, she then tried working in the field of computers but realized it was not what she wanted. She started writing to deal with the failure of her first two career choices. She says she writes young adult novels because she wanted to go back to a time in her life “when the decisions I made, the paths I chose, determined the kind of person I would become” (http://www.julieannepeters.com/files/index.htm). Peters has won many awards for her books, especially the well reviewed, Luna.
* Genre
Teen Fiction; LGBT
* Curriculum Ties, if any
English, if it was allowed in a school setting without challenge:
According to the English–Language Arts Content Standards for California Public Schools, found at http://curriculum.suhsd.k12.ca.us/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=51&Itemid=66, this book would tie into the Literary Response and Analysis part of the curriculum, the student must “Determine characters’ traits by what the characters say about themselves in narration, dialogue, dramatic monologue, and soliloquy” (p.57).
This book would probably not be used in a high school setting because many parents would oppose it, but the book could teach students about being open minded and about issues that exist in high school but are not really discussed openly, such as transgender teens and homosexuality.
* Booktalking Ideas
1) Discuss gender identity and the way both genders were portrayed in this book.
2) Do you think the author should make a sequel, if so, what should it cover?
3) If a second book was made, should it be told through Luna’s eyes?
4) Why do you think Regan always put Luna first and never spoke up about it?
* Reading Level/Interest Age
9th grade and up/ 15 and up
* Challenge Issues and Defense
Challenge Issues: Transgenders, homosexuality, gender reassignment surgery.
Defense ideas:
1) Ask the patron about the book and issue in question and find out how much they know about the book.
2) Help the patron become more familiar with the book and its content.
3) Show the patron positive reviews for this book, such as ones found on amazon.com; School Library Journal and Booklist, http://www.amazon.com/Luna-Julie-Anne-Peters/dp/0316011274/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1256682055&sr=1-1.
4) If available, introduce the patron to people who have read it in the library or tell the patron what you thought of the book if you have read it.
5) Show the patron the collection development policy for that particular library. For example, the one for the San Diego County library, http://dbpcosdcsgt.co.san-diego.ca.us/screens/Intranet/policy/sdcl-policy_O.41_material-selection.pdf
6) If they still want to file a grievance about the book begin the necessary paperwork by giving them the forms they need to fill out. In the San Diego County system, the grievance will then go to The Challenged Materials Team. If the committee cannot resolve the issue, it then goes to the County Library Director for a final decision. http://dbpcosdcsgt.co.san-diego.ca.us/screens/Intranet/policy/sdcl-policy_O.34_intellectual_freedom.pdf
* Why did you include this book in your titles you selected?
I read this book for a separate assignment but I included this book in my blog because I felt it was a book that people need to be aware of. Transgender people are a group of people that are still widely misunderstood by the general population. This book allows readers to see a glimpse of what someone who is transgender goes through and the obstacles they face. All teenagers face issues about identity and trying to figure out who they are as they become adults. This is one more book that shows this struggle, the author just uses a character with less familiar problems.
Peters, J. A. Luna. Little, Brown and Company, 2006. ISBN-10: 0-316-01127-4
- National Book Award Finalist
- ALA Best Book for Young Adults, 2005
* Plot Summary
Regan is trying to live a normal teenage life but is constantly distracted from it by her brother Liam, or as Regan knows her; Luna. Luna wants to live as a woman because that is how she feels but she was born into a male body. Luna struggles with hiding her true identity everyday; she feels like she is suffocating. The only person Luna can talk to about her problems is her sister, Regan. Regan knows this and feels the pressure to always be there for Luna no matter if it means putting herself second. This book shows the struggle of a transgender teenager through the eyes of a sister who loves her brother but is also at times embarrassed by him and his issues. Regan wants to be a normal teen and date boys but finds it hard because she is always worrying about Luna’s well being. Regan also worries that people will find out about Luna and she will suffer the consequences for the rest of high school.
* Critical Evaluation
This book and its genre are so important for teens. Many teens are struggling with this very problem and need something to guide them or make them feel less isolated. This book is also important in teaching young adults to have an open mind. The author did a great job of telling Luna’s story. Telling it through the sister gave readers another voice to be heard other than just Luna’s; both are important. In using the sister, Peters gave readers a character that most could relate to. Luna would be hard for many teens to relate with but most can identify with Regan and wanting to fit in with others in high school but at the same time wanting to be there for a friend or family member. The writing is wonderful and really gives the impression of a young adult woman’s feelings. The reader gets to see the struggle that Regan has between her life and Luna’s and wanting to be part of both.
* Reader’s Annotation
Regan is putting her life on hold out of love; she is distracted by the transformation of her brother from Liam to Luna; the woman he always thought he should be.
* Information about the author
Julie Ann Peters grew up in, and still lives in Colorado. Peters lives there with her partner and enjoys staying at home but visiting places with her mind. Writing was her third try at a career. She first tried teaching but was fired, she then tried working in the field of computers but realized it was not what she wanted. She started writing to deal with the failure of her first two career choices. She says she writes young adult novels because she wanted to go back to a time in her life “when the decisions I made, the paths I chose, determined the kind of person I would become” (http://www.julieannepeters.com/files/index.htm). Peters has won many awards for her books, especially the well reviewed, Luna.
* Genre
Teen Fiction; LGBT
* Curriculum Ties, if any
English, if it was allowed in a school setting without challenge:
According to the English–Language Arts Content Standards for California Public Schools, found at http://curriculum.suhsd.k12.ca.us/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=51&Itemid=66, this book would tie into the Literary Response and Analysis part of the curriculum, the student must “Determine characters’ traits by what the characters say about themselves in narration, dialogue, dramatic monologue, and soliloquy” (p.57).
This book would probably not be used in a high school setting because many parents would oppose it, but the book could teach students about being open minded and about issues that exist in high school but are not really discussed openly, such as transgender teens and homosexuality.
* Booktalking Ideas
1) Discuss gender identity and the way both genders were portrayed in this book.
2) Do you think the author should make a sequel, if so, what should it cover?
3) If a second book was made, should it be told through Luna’s eyes?
4) Why do you think Regan always put Luna first and never spoke up about it?
* Reading Level/Interest Age
9th grade and up/ 15 and up
* Challenge Issues and Defense
Challenge Issues: Transgenders, homosexuality, gender reassignment surgery.
Defense ideas:
1) Ask the patron about the book and issue in question and find out how much they know about the book.
2) Help the patron become more familiar with the book and its content.
3) Show the patron positive reviews for this book, such as ones found on amazon.com; School Library Journal and Booklist, http://www.amazon.com/Luna-Julie-Anne-Peters/dp/0316011274/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1256682055&sr=1-1.
4) If available, introduce the patron to people who have read it in the library or tell the patron what you thought of the book if you have read it.
5) Show the patron the collection development policy for that particular library. For example, the one for the San Diego County library, http://dbpcosdcsgt.co.san-diego.ca.us/screens/Intranet/policy/sdcl-policy_O.41_material-selection.pdf
6) If they still want to file a grievance about the book begin the necessary paperwork by giving them the forms they need to fill out. In the San Diego County system, the grievance will then go to The Challenged Materials Team. If the committee cannot resolve the issue, it then goes to the County Library Director for a final decision. http://dbpcosdcsgt.co.san-diego.ca.us/screens/Intranet/policy/sdcl-policy_O.34_intellectual_freedom.pdf
* Why did you include this book in your titles you selected?
I read this book for a separate assignment but I included this book in my blog because I felt it was a book that people need to be aware of. Transgender people are a group of people that are still widely misunderstood by the general population. This book allows readers to see a glimpse of what someone who is transgender goes through and the obstacles they face. All teenagers face issues about identity and trying to figure out who they are as they become adults. This is one more book that shows this struggle, the author just uses a character with less familiar problems.
Story of A Girl
* Bibliographic information
Zarr, S. Story of a Girl. Little, Brown and Company, 2007. ISBN-10: 0316014540.
- YALSA Best Books for Young Adults: 2008
- YALSA Quick Picks for Reluctant Young Adult Readers: 2008
* Plot Summary
Deanna Lambert has just finished her sophomore year of high school and she still has not escaped the stigma of being the “school slut”. She was thirteen when her dad found her and Tommy in the back of a car having sex. Tommy was seventeen; he told everyone at the high school all about it, he was supposed to be Deanna’s brother’s friend. That was three years ago. Since then, her relationship with her dad has been destroyed and she has only two friends other than her big brother. Her two friends, Jason and Lee are dating and Deanna feels guilty because she now has feelings for Jason that she wants to act on. She has never dealt with her feelings about what happened with Tommy or why. She just wanted someone to want her, someone to notice her. Now her own father will not even look at her and he always expects the worse from her. She decides to get a job so she will not have to be at home anymore and she starts to save up in hopes that she can move out with her brother, his girlfriend and their baby. Keeping the job means working with Tommy and confronting him, and herself, about what happened three years ago and why.
* Critical Evaluation
This is a great book for female teens because it addresses issues that many teens face and do not know how to deal with it. The book is told through Deanna. We get to see first-hand what she is feeling and the reader really feels her pain. At thirteen she wanted what anyone at that age wants, to not be invisible, to feel wanted, by just one person. There are many young teens who have sex because they want the attention, they want to be noticed and they are afraid to say no because it might end that feeling of being important to someone. Sarah Zarr captures this situation perfectly. This is going on all over America and many girls do not know how to deal with what is happening or with what happened. Even just dealing with rumors or stereotypes that have been placed on someone in high school is a difficult but important issue to address. The writing in this book really draws the reader in and we watch, hoping Deanna will confront her issues and make her father confront his, so he will finally see her for her, not the girl he pulled out of the car three years before.
* Reader’s Annotation
Deanna has been living with an incident that occurred three years ago when she was thirteen. She is older now and she must deal with what happened, before she loses herself and her father.
* Information about the author
Sara Zarr grew up in San Francisco, CA. She had planned on publishing a YA novel before she was thirty, but says it happened six years behind schedule with Story of a Girl. She now lives in Salt Lake City, Utah with her husband. She has written three YA novels, and contributed to three other books. With Story of a Girl, she was a 2007 National Book Award finalist and awarded with 2008 American Library Association Best Books for Young Adults. With her book Sweethearts, she was a 2008 Cybil Award Finalist and awarded with 2009 American Library Association Best Books for Young Adults. For further information, check out the author’s biography on her website, http://www.sarazarr.com/bio.
* Genre
Teen Fiction; Mental, Emotional and Behavioral Issues
* Curriculum Ties, if any
English:
According to the English–Language Arts Content Standards for California Public Schools, found at http://curriculum.suhsd.k12.ca.us/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=51&Itemid=66, this book would tie into the Literary Response and Analysis part of the curriculum, the student must “Determine characters’ traits by what the characters say about themselves in narration, dialogue, dramatic monologue, and soliloquy” (p.57). Zarr’s writing allows the reader to see the strength in Deanna through her thoughts, even if the character does not see it herself.
Health:
This could be a learning tool in health class for sexual education.
* Booktalking Ideas
1) What do you think were Deanna’s reasons for going out with Tommy? Why did she let it continue?
2) Looking at Tommy in the beginning and end of the book, do you think Deanna felt threatened by him? Was she afraid to work with him because she feared him?
3) Discuss how you think the author portrayed Tommy. Why was he shown to be almost a nice guy when his actions seem to show otherwise?
4) Talk about the relationship between Deanna and her father, and Deanna and her brother, Darren. How do these relationships differ?
* Reading Level/Interest Age
9th grade/ Ages 14 and up
* Challenge Issues and Defense
Challenge Issues: Sex with a minor, sexuality, unwed parents.
Defense ideas:
1) Ask the patron about the book and issue in question and find out how much they know about the book.
2) Help the patron become more familiar with the book and its content.
3) Show the patron positive reviews for this book, such as ones found on amazon.com; School Library Journal and Booklist, http://www.amazon.com/Story-Girl-Sara-Zarr/dp/0316014540/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1253575655&sr=8-1.
4) If available, introduce the patron to people who have read it in the library or tell the patron what you thought of the book if you have read it.
5) Show the patron the collection development policy for that particular library. For example, the one for the San Diego County library, http://dbpcosdcsgt.co.san-diego.ca.us/screens/Intranet/policy/sdcl-policy_O.41_material-selection.pdf
6) If they still want to file a grievance about the book begin the necessary paperwork by giving them the forms they need to fill out. In the San Diego County system, the grievance will then go to The Challenged Materials Team. If the committee cannot resolve the issue, it then goes to the County Library Director for a final decision. http://dbpcosdcsgt.co.san-diego.ca.us/screens/Intranet/policy/sdcl-policy_O.34_intellectual_freedom.pdf
* Why did you include this book in your titles you selected?
I had decided to observe a teen book club for another assignment and wanted to be familiar with the book they were discussing so I read it; the book was Story of a Girl. I read the book in a couple days. I could not put it down because I wanted to follow Deanna on her journey and I think that many young women will feel the same if they read it so I included it in this assignment because I recommend it for all women, no matter their age. There are so many young adults who feel a separation from their parents, for one reason or another, and just want to feel a part of something. This is a great book because it shows the aftermath of a very embarrassing and troubling situation; it also shows the emotional and mental process of dealing with this type of situation. The character does not fully confront her problems until three years after, but this shows readers everyone deals with their problems in their own time and they have to do it on their own terms when they get to that point where they can deal with it.
Zarr, S. Story of a Girl. Little, Brown and Company, 2007. ISBN-10: 0316014540.
- YALSA Best Books for Young Adults: 2008
- YALSA Quick Picks for Reluctant Young Adult Readers: 2008
* Plot Summary
Deanna Lambert has just finished her sophomore year of high school and she still has not escaped the stigma of being the “school slut”. She was thirteen when her dad found her and Tommy in the back of a car having sex. Tommy was seventeen; he told everyone at the high school all about it, he was supposed to be Deanna’s brother’s friend. That was three years ago. Since then, her relationship with her dad has been destroyed and she has only two friends other than her big brother. Her two friends, Jason and Lee are dating and Deanna feels guilty because she now has feelings for Jason that she wants to act on. She has never dealt with her feelings about what happened with Tommy or why. She just wanted someone to want her, someone to notice her. Now her own father will not even look at her and he always expects the worse from her. She decides to get a job so she will not have to be at home anymore and she starts to save up in hopes that she can move out with her brother, his girlfriend and their baby. Keeping the job means working with Tommy and confronting him, and herself, about what happened three years ago and why.
* Critical Evaluation
This is a great book for female teens because it addresses issues that many teens face and do not know how to deal with it. The book is told through Deanna. We get to see first-hand what she is feeling and the reader really feels her pain. At thirteen she wanted what anyone at that age wants, to not be invisible, to feel wanted, by just one person. There are many young teens who have sex because they want the attention, they want to be noticed and they are afraid to say no because it might end that feeling of being important to someone. Sarah Zarr captures this situation perfectly. This is going on all over America and many girls do not know how to deal with what is happening or with what happened. Even just dealing with rumors or stereotypes that have been placed on someone in high school is a difficult but important issue to address. The writing in this book really draws the reader in and we watch, hoping Deanna will confront her issues and make her father confront his, so he will finally see her for her, not the girl he pulled out of the car three years before.
* Reader’s Annotation
Deanna has been living with an incident that occurred three years ago when she was thirteen. She is older now and she must deal with what happened, before she loses herself and her father.
* Information about the author
Sara Zarr grew up in San Francisco, CA. She had planned on publishing a YA novel before she was thirty, but says it happened six years behind schedule with Story of a Girl. She now lives in Salt Lake City, Utah with her husband. She has written three YA novels, and contributed to three other books. With Story of a Girl, she was a 2007 National Book Award finalist and awarded with 2008 American Library Association Best Books for Young Adults. With her book Sweethearts, she was a 2008 Cybil Award Finalist and awarded with 2009 American Library Association Best Books for Young Adults. For further information, check out the author’s biography on her website, http://www.sarazarr.com/bio.
* Genre
Teen Fiction; Mental, Emotional and Behavioral Issues
* Curriculum Ties, if any
English:
According to the English–Language Arts Content Standards for California Public Schools, found at http://curriculum.suhsd.k12.ca.us/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=51&Itemid=66, this book would tie into the Literary Response and Analysis part of the curriculum, the student must “Determine characters’ traits by what the characters say about themselves in narration, dialogue, dramatic monologue, and soliloquy” (p.57). Zarr’s writing allows the reader to see the strength in Deanna through her thoughts, even if the character does not see it herself.
Health:
This could be a learning tool in health class for sexual education.
* Booktalking Ideas
1) What do you think were Deanna’s reasons for going out with Tommy? Why did she let it continue?
2) Looking at Tommy in the beginning and end of the book, do you think Deanna felt threatened by him? Was she afraid to work with him because she feared him?
3) Discuss how you think the author portrayed Tommy. Why was he shown to be almost a nice guy when his actions seem to show otherwise?
4) Talk about the relationship between Deanna and her father, and Deanna and her brother, Darren. How do these relationships differ?
* Reading Level/Interest Age
9th grade/ Ages 14 and up
* Challenge Issues and Defense
Challenge Issues: Sex with a minor, sexuality, unwed parents.
Defense ideas:
1) Ask the patron about the book and issue in question and find out how much they know about the book.
2) Help the patron become more familiar with the book and its content.
3) Show the patron positive reviews for this book, such as ones found on amazon.com; School Library Journal and Booklist, http://www.amazon.com/Story-Girl-Sara-Zarr/dp/0316014540/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1253575655&sr=8-1.
4) If available, introduce the patron to people who have read it in the library or tell the patron what you thought of the book if you have read it.
5) Show the patron the collection development policy for that particular library. For example, the one for the San Diego County library, http://dbpcosdcsgt.co.san-diego.ca.us/screens/Intranet/policy/sdcl-policy_O.41_material-selection.pdf
6) If they still want to file a grievance about the book begin the necessary paperwork by giving them the forms they need to fill out. In the San Diego County system, the grievance will then go to The Challenged Materials Team. If the committee cannot resolve the issue, it then goes to the County Library Director for a final decision. http://dbpcosdcsgt.co.san-diego.ca.us/screens/Intranet/policy/sdcl-policy_O.34_intellectual_freedom.pdf
* Why did you include this book in your titles you selected?
I had decided to observe a teen book club for another assignment and wanted to be familiar with the book they were discussing so I read it; the book was Story of a Girl. I read the book in a couple days. I could not put it down because I wanted to follow Deanna on her journey and I think that many young women will feel the same if they read it so I included it in this assignment because I recommend it for all women, no matter their age. There are so many young adults who feel a separation from their parents, for one reason or another, and just want to feel a part of something. This is a great book because it shows the aftermath of a very embarrassing and troubling situation; it also shows the emotional and mental process of dealing with this type of situation. The character does not fully confront her problems until three years after, but this shows readers everyone deals with their problems in their own time and they have to do it on their own terms when they get to that point where they can deal with it.
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone
* Bibliographic information
Rowling, J.K. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone. Arthur A. Levine Books, 1997. ISBN: 9780590353403.
- First book in the Harry Potter Series.
- YALSA 100 Best Books (1950-2000)
- YALSA Best Books for Young Adults: 1999
- ALA Notable Children's Books: 1999
* Plot Summary
Harry Potter has been living life with the Dursleys, his very ordinary aunt, uncle, and cousin for the past ten years since the tragic death of his parents’. As his eleventh birthday approaches he begins to notice strange things that occur when he gets angry or frustrated. Then the letters begin arriving much to his uncles’ dismay. He has been invited to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry where he is to practice magic as his mom and dad once did. Harry never knew his family practiced magic or that he himself was famous for defeating the dark wizard Voldemort when he was just a baby on the night his parents’ died because the Dursleys had kept all information that concerned magic from him. Once Harry makes it to Hogwarts he gains two close friends, Ron and Hermione and quickly begins to feel at home in the world of magic. Ron and Harry find many ways to get into mischief while Hermione works on her school work and studies hard. While enjoying their first year at Hogwarts, the three of them uncover a plot to steal an important object of magic from the school by someone working for Voldemort. Voldemort, the very powerful, evil wizard whose very name invokes fear among adults was thought by most to be dead. The three young friends race to find out more about the object and who wants to steal it before the object is taken and Voldemort is able to become more powerful.
* Critical Evaluation
The Harry Potter books are aimed at younger teens but the books have captivated audiences of all ages. The writing of J.K. Rowling makes even adults interested in the adventures of eleven year olds practicing magic. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone is especially fun to read because the reader sees young Harry go from living in a home where he is unwanted, living a very ordinary existence, to being in a magical world where everyone knows his name and story, except him. These books are very popular, especially because of the movies. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone would be great for older teens who are at a below grade reading level or for those who do not read as often as they should and need a book worth getting excited about. The story is very easy to follow with relatable characters. Readers get to feel the change that Harry goes through as he becomes more confident and happy in his new surroundings, finally feeling at home and finally getting the family that he has always wanted.
* Reader’s Annotation
Harry Potter has been living an ordinary life with a miserable family who pretends he does not exist when he is invited to attend a school for witches and wizards. He then learns that he is famous for defeating an evil wizard when he was just a baby and that there is a whole world of magic he never knew before.
* Information about the author
J.K. Rowling grew up in West England with her younger sister and two parents. She later went to the University of Exeter and then began working for Amnesty International. She started writing this book, the first in the series, when her, and a boyfriend were house hunting and the idea came to her. In 1993, she moved back to England, from Portugal, with her young daughter, who she thinks the world of. Instead of going back to teaching, she raced to finish the book knowing she would not have time to work on it with a baby and a new job. After sending it out to different agents and publishers the book was finally published in 1996. The author’s website says the books have been “distributed in over 200 territories and are translated into 67 languages” and that Rowling has received, in addition to many other awards, the “Author of the Year and Lifetime Achievement Award, British Book Awards, 1999 and 2008”. For more information, check out the author’s biography on her website, http://www.jkrowling.com/textonly/en/biography.cfm
* Genre
Teen Fiction; Fantasy
* Curriculum Ties, if any
Literacy and English:
This book could be used to get older teens who are not interested in reading, or who are not reading at their grade level yet, to read a book that has good writing and great character development. This book could be a starting point because it is a fun, easy read.
* Booktalking Ideas
1) How do you think Harry’s life would have been different if he had been placed in a home with magic rather than a home with Muggles as a baby?
2) Focus on the personalities of Harry, Ron and Hermione. Why do you think they are able to be such good friends? What makes those friendships work so well?
3) Discuss why Harry Potter enjoyed staying at Hogwarts for the Christmas holiday rather than going home to the Dursleys’.
4) Talk about why it burned Professor Quirrell’s hand when he tried to stop Harry.
* Reading Level/Interest Age
Grade 4-7 / Ages 8 and up
* Challenge Issues and Defense
Challenge Issues: Magic/witchcraft. Some people believe the series promotes witchcraft, satanic beliefs and the occult.
Defense ideas:
1) Ask the patron about the book and issue in question and find out how much they know about the book.
2) Help the patron become more familiar with the book and its content.
3) Show the patron positive reviews for this book, such as ones found on amazon.com; Publisher’s Weekly and School Library Journal, http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/product-description/054506967X/ref=dp_proddesc_0?ie=UTF8&n=283155&s=books.
4) If available, introduce the patron to people who have read it in the library or tell the patron what you thought of the book if you have read it.
5) Show the patron the collection development policy for that particular library. For example, the one for the San Diego County library, http://dbpcosdcsgt.co.san-diego.ca.us/screens/Intranet/policy/sdcl-policy_O.41_material-selection.pdf
6) If they still want to file a grievance about the book begin the necessary paperwork by giving them the forms they need to fill out. In the San Diego County system, the grievance will then go to The Challenged Materials Team. If the committee cannot resolve the issue, it then goes to the County Library Director for a final decision. http://dbpcosdcsgt.co.san-diego.ca.us/screens/Intranet/policy/sdcl-policy_O.34_intellectual_freedom.pdf
* Why did you include this book in your titles you selected?
The Harry Potter books are very popular and have become more so because of the exciting movies that have been made of them. I felt that even though this book is aimed at younger teens many older teens are reading the books and Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone is the first book so it is the most important. This book introduces people to an exciting world of magic with characters that readers will fall in love with both on the pages and on the big screen. It is a fun book that should be enjoyed by all.
Rowling, J.K. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone. Arthur A. Levine Books, 1997. ISBN: 9780590353403.
- First book in the Harry Potter Series.
- YALSA 100 Best Books (1950-2000)
- YALSA Best Books for Young Adults: 1999
- ALA Notable Children's Books: 1999
* Plot Summary
Harry Potter has been living life with the Dursleys, his very ordinary aunt, uncle, and cousin for the past ten years since the tragic death of his parents’. As his eleventh birthday approaches he begins to notice strange things that occur when he gets angry or frustrated. Then the letters begin arriving much to his uncles’ dismay. He has been invited to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry where he is to practice magic as his mom and dad once did. Harry never knew his family practiced magic or that he himself was famous for defeating the dark wizard Voldemort when he was just a baby on the night his parents’ died because the Dursleys had kept all information that concerned magic from him. Once Harry makes it to Hogwarts he gains two close friends, Ron and Hermione and quickly begins to feel at home in the world of magic. Ron and Harry find many ways to get into mischief while Hermione works on her school work and studies hard. While enjoying their first year at Hogwarts, the three of them uncover a plot to steal an important object of magic from the school by someone working for Voldemort. Voldemort, the very powerful, evil wizard whose very name invokes fear among adults was thought by most to be dead. The three young friends race to find out more about the object and who wants to steal it before the object is taken and Voldemort is able to become more powerful.
* Critical Evaluation
The Harry Potter books are aimed at younger teens but the books have captivated audiences of all ages. The writing of J.K. Rowling makes even adults interested in the adventures of eleven year olds practicing magic. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone is especially fun to read because the reader sees young Harry go from living in a home where he is unwanted, living a very ordinary existence, to being in a magical world where everyone knows his name and story, except him. These books are very popular, especially because of the movies. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone would be great for older teens who are at a below grade reading level or for those who do not read as often as they should and need a book worth getting excited about. The story is very easy to follow with relatable characters. Readers get to feel the change that Harry goes through as he becomes more confident and happy in his new surroundings, finally feeling at home and finally getting the family that he has always wanted.
* Reader’s Annotation
Harry Potter has been living an ordinary life with a miserable family who pretends he does not exist when he is invited to attend a school for witches and wizards. He then learns that he is famous for defeating an evil wizard when he was just a baby and that there is a whole world of magic he never knew before.
* Information about the author
J.K. Rowling grew up in West England with her younger sister and two parents. She later went to the University of Exeter and then began working for Amnesty International. She started writing this book, the first in the series, when her, and a boyfriend were house hunting and the idea came to her. In 1993, she moved back to England, from Portugal, with her young daughter, who she thinks the world of. Instead of going back to teaching, she raced to finish the book knowing she would not have time to work on it with a baby and a new job. After sending it out to different agents and publishers the book was finally published in 1996. The author’s website says the books have been “distributed in over 200 territories and are translated into 67 languages” and that Rowling has received, in addition to many other awards, the “Author of the Year and Lifetime Achievement Award, British Book Awards, 1999 and 2008”. For more information, check out the author’s biography on her website, http://www.jkrowling.com/textonly/en/biography.cfm
* Genre
Teen Fiction; Fantasy
* Curriculum Ties, if any
Literacy and English:
This book could be used to get older teens who are not interested in reading, or who are not reading at their grade level yet, to read a book that has good writing and great character development. This book could be a starting point because it is a fun, easy read.
* Booktalking Ideas
1) How do you think Harry’s life would have been different if he had been placed in a home with magic rather than a home with Muggles as a baby?
2) Focus on the personalities of Harry, Ron and Hermione. Why do you think they are able to be such good friends? What makes those friendships work so well?
3) Discuss why Harry Potter enjoyed staying at Hogwarts for the Christmas holiday rather than going home to the Dursleys’.
4) Talk about why it burned Professor Quirrell’s hand when he tried to stop Harry.
* Reading Level/Interest Age
Grade 4-7 / Ages 8 and up
* Challenge Issues and Defense
Challenge Issues: Magic/witchcraft. Some people believe the series promotes witchcraft, satanic beliefs and the occult.
Defense ideas:
1) Ask the patron about the book and issue in question and find out how much they know about the book.
2) Help the patron become more familiar with the book and its content.
3) Show the patron positive reviews for this book, such as ones found on amazon.com; Publisher’s Weekly and School Library Journal, http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/product-description/054506967X/ref=dp_proddesc_0?ie=UTF8&n=283155&s=books.
4) If available, introduce the patron to people who have read it in the library or tell the patron what you thought of the book if you have read it.
5) Show the patron the collection development policy for that particular library. For example, the one for the San Diego County library, http://dbpcosdcsgt.co.san-diego.ca.us/screens/Intranet/policy/sdcl-policy_O.41_material-selection.pdf
6) If they still want to file a grievance about the book begin the necessary paperwork by giving them the forms they need to fill out. In the San Diego County system, the grievance will then go to The Challenged Materials Team. If the committee cannot resolve the issue, it then goes to the County Library Director for a final decision. http://dbpcosdcsgt.co.san-diego.ca.us/screens/Intranet/policy/sdcl-policy_O.34_intellectual_freedom.pdf
* Why did you include this book in your titles you selected?
The Harry Potter books are very popular and have become more so because of the exciting movies that have been made of them. I felt that even though this book is aimed at younger teens many older teens are reading the books and Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone is the first book so it is the most important. This book introduces people to an exciting world of magic with characters that readers will fall in love with both on the pages and on the big screen. It is a fun book that should be enjoyed by all.
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