* Bibliographic information
High, L. O. Planet Pregnancy. Front Street, 2008. ISBN: 9781590785843
- YALSA Quick Picks for Reluctant Young Adult Readers: 2009
* Plot Summary
The story of a pregnant 16-year-old named Sahara told through poetry prose. The story follows her through her unwanted pregnancy and the feelings associated with it; sadness, worry, regret, etc. The character avoids any responsibility and tells nobody about the pregnancy, except her religious best friend. When she finally decides to tell her mom she is pregnant she first says she was date raped and then decides not to tell her mom about the pregnancy. Throughout the book she has thoughts of suicide and talks about abortion as an option but keeps waiting to make an appointment. She does not tell the father, Dustin or her mom about the baby until the third trimester.
* Critical Evaluation
The simple poetry on the pages reflects the maturity of this teen girl who got pregnant and describes numerous things as “so not fun” or “so not cool”. Throughout the book it is apparent that she is very immature and not responsible enough for a baby, but she is pregnant nonetheless. The author does a great job of showing the thoughts associated with a teen girl who got pregnant but does not want to give her old life up and does not have a clue about what to do with her new one. Her rising fear and worry are shown with the quick prose, and it is evident that she does not want to make the decision to “terminate” the baby so she just avoids the decision all together. I did question why there was no talk in the story of reactions from other students until right before she went into labor. The author talks about her showing but never talks about people knowing at school until the end of the pregnancy. The author also discussed all of the stuff that you need for a baby and everything you will have to give up as a mom; this is good for teens to read who may be thinking of motherhood.
* Reader’s Annotation
Last week she was the Dixie Queen at school, this week she is pregnant. Sahara must decide if she wants to be a mother before she runs out of time and the baby has arrived.
* Information about the author
Linda Oatman High writes books for teens, children, and adults. In addition to writing books, she is also a songwriter, poet, journalist, and playwright. She grew up in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, and still lives there. She has two adult sons, one of them, Zach, also writes. She is very proud to be a grandmother. She says she loves writing and likes being a writer because she can go to work in her pajamas and eat chocolate for lunch if she wants. For more about High, visit http://www.lindaoatmanhigh.com/.
* Genre
Teen Fiction; Issues, Teen Pregnancy
* Curriculum Ties, if any
Health:
This book could be useful in a health class. Students can see first-hand the roller-coaster of pregnancy. There is also information about embryo development, body changes, and preparation for a baby.
* Booktalking Ideas
1) Discuss the possible consequences of Sahara not seeing a doctor until the third trimester.
2) Talk about Sahara’s father and his absence in her life, how is it related to her situation?
3) Why do you think Sahara’s Dad showed up after hearing she was pregnant?
4) What do you think the author’s reasons were for not including the reactions of other students when Sahara started showing? The author made it appear as if no one knew until right before she went into labor even though her body had been changing throughout the book.
* Reading Level/Interest Age
Grade 7 and Up / 15 and Up
* Challenge Issues and Defense
Challenge Issues: Teen Pregnancy, Teens Having Sex, Date Rape, Infanticide, Abortion, and Suicide.
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; http://www.amazon.com/Planet-Pregnancy-Linda-Oatman-High/dp/1590787676/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1259970727&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 included this book because I found the poetry format interesting and wanted to see how it would work with such a serious topic. I found the book while browsing at the library and grabbed it because of its odd size and then looked inside and saw the way it was formatted and wanted to read it. The subject of teen pregnancy is so controversial but also so important; I felt it was important to have a book with this topic on my blog. I really liked how the book was told through the girl experiencing it and how she had no idea what to do about her situation, like many young girls who become pregnant accidently.
Friday, December 4, 2009
Thursday, December 3, 2009
The Dark Tower: The Long Road Home
* Bibliographic information
David, P. & Furth, R. Stephen King’s The Dark Tower: The Long Road Home. ISBN: 9780785127093. Art by Lee, J & Isanove, R.
- YALSA Great Graphic Novels for Teens: 2009
* Plot Summary
In this beautifully drawn tale of adventure and horror, the main character Roland has just watched his love die and he goes into a trance-like state, going after anything that moves. He goes after a grapefruit that turns into a giant eyeball and sucks his consciousness out; putting him in a dream realm called End-World. Roland’s “ka-tet,” or fellow gunslingers; Alain and Bert, grab him and take off before the Big Coffin Hunters arrive to kill him as they did his love, Susan. Alain and Bert journey with Roland’s body as Roland journeys through the End-World. Crimson King, the villain of the story gathers Roland in End-World and tells him they need to join forces with Roland opening the Dark Tower for the King. When Roland refuses, a newly gifted child telepath pulls him from the grapefruit and releases him from End-World. A suspenseful tale of adventure and dark forces that will grab the attention of older teens.
* Critical Evaluation
This is a great stand alone graphic novel. I did not have to do background research to figure out what was happening in the story. The art work is amazingly beautiful even in the scenes of death and torture; the artists are truly talented. The pictures and content is a bit mature so it is better suited for older teens and adults. The storyline of Sheemie is very interesting; it is not usual to have a mentally challenged boy save the hero of the story with his branch new powers of telepathy. The story may have classic themes of good and evil, death and chaos; but there are also some new refreshing aspects to this series like the character of Sheemie.
* Reader’s Annotation
Roland has just watched the love of his life die and now he has been sucked into a dream realm where he will have to face much opposition; including the Crimson King.
* Information about the author
Peter David is an American writer; he does work with comic books, Star Trek novels, television shows, movies and video games. He was born in Maryland but has lived in many states on the East Coast. He has his Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism from New York University and he is a big supporter of LBGT equality.
Robin Furth is a personal research assistant for Stephen King and has been so for many years. She was raised on the coast of Maine.
* Genre
Teen/Adult Fiction; Graphic Novel; Horror, Adventure, Science Fiction
* Curriculum Ties, if any
N/A
* Booktalking Ideas
1) Roland got himself into a huge mess when he shot at the grapefruit in the beginning. The way he was going do you think he would have done something just as bad sooner or later anyway?
2) Alain and Bert are very loyal to Roland, talk about their relationship with him.
3) How do you feel about Sheemie being the one who saves the day when he releases Roland from his dream prison?
* Reading Level/Interest Age
Grade 11 and Up / 16 and Up
* Challenge Issues and Defense
Challenge Issues: Violence, Horror, and Language.
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 this one found on the Comic Book Resources website, http://www.comicbookresources.com/?page=user_review&id=382.
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?
Every time I shelve graphic novels at the library I see the Dark Tower series and think about reading them but of course I never do. This gave me the chance to check one of them out to see how I felt about the series. Now that I have read it I want to read the rest of them. I think older teens will feel the same way; that is why I included this title in my collection. The art is so remarkable; I recommend people pick it up for the pictures alone. Teens will also like the good versus evil and the monsters and gore, also the action and mystery are exciting, especially for young adults.
David, P. & Furth, R. Stephen King’s The Dark Tower: The Long Road Home. ISBN: 9780785127093. Art by Lee, J & Isanove, R.
- YALSA Great Graphic Novels for Teens: 2009
* Plot Summary
In this beautifully drawn tale of adventure and horror, the main character Roland has just watched his love die and he goes into a trance-like state, going after anything that moves. He goes after a grapefruit that turns into a giant eyeball and sucks his consciousness out; putting him in a dream realm called End-World. Roland’s “ka-tet,” or fellow gunslingers; Alain and Bert, grab him and take off before the Big Coffin Hunters arrive to kill him as they did his love, Susan. Alain and Bert journey with Roland’s body as Roland journeys through the End-World. Crimson King, the villain of the story gathers Roland in End-World and tells him they need to join forces with Roland opening the Dark Tower for the King. When Roland refuses, a newly gifted child telepath pulls him from the grapefruit and releases him from End-World. A suspenseful tale of adventure and dark forces that will grab the attention of older teens.
* Critical Evaluation
This is a great stand alone graphic novel. I did not have to do background research to figure out what was happening in the story. The art work is amazingly beautiful even in the scenes of death and torture; the artists are truly talented. The pictures and content is a bit mature so it is better suited for older teens and adults. The storyline of Sheemie is very interesting; it is not usual to have a mentally challenged boy save the hero of the story with his branch new powers of telepathy. The story may have classic themes of good and evil, death and chaos; but there are also some new refreshing aspects to this series like the character of Sheemie.
* Reader’s Annotation
Roland has just watched the love of his life die and now he has been sucked into a dream realm where he will have to face much opposition; including the Crimson King.
* Information about the author
Peter David is an American writer; he does work with comic books, Star Trek novels, television shows, movies and video games. He was born in Maryland but has lived in many states on the East Coast. He has his Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism from New York University and he is a big supporter of LBGT equality.
Robin Furth is a personal research assistant for Stephen King and has been so for many years. She was raised on the coast of Maine.
* Genre
Teen/Adult Fiction; Graphic Novel; Horror, Adventure, Science Fiction
* Curriculum Ties, if any
N/A
* Booktalking Ideas
1) Roland got himself into a huge mess when he shot at the grapefruit in the beginning. The way he was going do you think he would have done something just as bad sooner or later anyway?
2) Alain and Bert are very loyal to Roland, talk about their relationship with him.
3) How do you feel about Sheemie being the one who saves the day when he releases Roland from his dream prison?
* Reading Level/Interest Age
Grade 11 and Up / 16 and Up
* Challenge Issues and Defense
Challenge Issues: Violence, Horror, and Language.
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 this one found on the Comic Book Resources website, http://www.comicbookresources.com/?page=user_review&id=382.
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?
Every time I shelve graphic novels at the library I see the Dark Tower series and think about reading them but of course I never do. This gave me the chance to check one of them out to see how I felt about the series. Now that I have read it I want to read the rest of them. I think older teens will feel the same way; that is why I included this title in my collection. The art is so remarkable; I recommend people pick it up for the pictures alone. Teens will also like the good versus evil and the monsters and gore, also the action and mystery are exciting, especially for young adults.
The Books of Magic
* Bibliographic information
Gaiman, N. The Books of Magic. DC Comics, 1993. ISBN: 9781563890826. Art by Bolton, J., Vess, C., Hampton, S., & Johnson, P.
* Plot Summary
This graphic novel has Gaiman’s usual smart humor surrounded by amazing graphics from four different artists. Timothy Hunter has become a very popular name in the world of magic; too bad he knows nothing about that world. A group of four fallen mystics humorously referred to as the “Trench Coat Brigade,” take him on an adventure into the magical realms of the past, present and futures. The book follows Timothy’s journey in four parts; each part is done by a different artist to represent a different realm of magic. After Timothy has ventured into these realms and learned about everything there is to know about magic, even catching a glimpse of hell along the way, he must make an important decision; does he want magic in his life?
* Critical Evaluation
In typical Gaiman fashion, this graphic novel combines mythical beings with normal people and lots of good humor. The fours artists who contributed to this novel are phenomenal; each created a magical realm in their own style. Most teen boys would be ecstatic to go on a magical field trip through space and time but Timothy is vey nonchalant about it. He goes along for the ride and keeps his calm even when faced with demons and legendary wizards. This is all part of Gaiman’s humor. Readers laugh because the dialogue is funny in a way that is familiar, like something a friend would say and the two of you would laugh about it. The “Trench Coat Brigade” comments from John Constantine are always entertaining. Great characters and a great story from Gaiman, as usual.
* Reader’s Annotation
Timothy Hunter was just a normal English teenager, skateboarding along when four men in trench coats surrounded him and started talking about magic. Now he must go on a journey through magical realms and decide if he wants a life of magic?
* Information about the author
Gaiman
* Genre
Teen Fiction; Graphic Novel, Fantasy
* Curriculum Ties, if any
N/A
* Booktalking Ideas
1) Talk about the character of Timothy and his future in magic, what do you think he will be like?
2) Do you think any of the guys in the “Trench Coat Brigade” were looking out for Timothy’s best interests? Or were they only interested in how he would affect the world of magic?
3) If you were given the same chance as Timothy, would you take it?
* Reading Level/Interest Age
Grade 7 and Up / 12-16 year olds
* Challenge Issues and Defense
Challenge Issues: Nudity, Demons, Satan, 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 if they can be found online or in an electronic database.
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 liked that this graphic novel was comprised of four volumes that had been put together later to make this one; so the artist in each part is different. This creates an honest reality of the magical realms because each was created with a new style by a new artist. The story is also fun; what teen does not want the chance to have magic in their life? I always appreciate Neil Gaiman’s humor so the graphic has three great aspects which I felt should be included in a blog on young adult books I love.
Gaiman, N. The Books of Magic. DC Comics, 1993. ISBN: 9781563890826. Art by Bolton, J., Vess, C., Hampton, S., & Johnson, P.
* Plot Summary
This graphic novel has Gaiman’s usual smart humor surrounded by amazing graphics from four different artists. Timothy Hunter has become a very popular name in the world of magic; too bad he knows nothing about that world. A group of four fallen mystics humorously referred to as the “Trench Coat Brigade,” take him on an adventure into the magical realms of the past, present and futures. The book follows Timothy’s journey in four parts; each part is done by a different artist to represent a different realm of magic. After Timothy has ventured into these realms and learned about everything there is to know about magic, even catching a glimpse of hell along the way, he must make an important decision; does he want magic in his life?
* Critical Evaluation
In typical Gaiman fashion, this graphic novel combines mythical beings with normal people and lots of good humor. The fours artists who contributed to this novel are phenomenal; each created a magical realm in their own style. Most teen boys would be ecstatic to go on a magical field trip through space and time but Timothy is vey nonchalant about it. He goes along for the ride and keeps his calm even when faced with demons and legendary wizards. This is all part of Gaiman’s humor. Readers laugh because the dialogue is funny in a way that is familiar, like something a friend would say and the two of you would laugh about it. The “Trench Coat Brigade” comments from John Constantine are always entertaining. Great characters and a great story from Gaiman, as usual.
* Reader’s Annotation
Timothy Hunter was just a normal English teenager, skateboarding along when four men in trench coats surrounded him and started talking about magic. Now he must go on a journey through magical realms and decide if he wants a life of magic?
* Information about the author
Gaiman
* Genre
Teen Fiction; Graphic Novel, Fantasy
* Curriculum Ties, if any
N/A
* Booktalking Ideas
1) Talk about the character of Timothy and his future in magic, what do you think he will be like?
2) Do you think any of the guys in the “Trench Coat Brigade” were looking out for Timothy’s best interests? Or were they only interested in how he would affect the world of magic?
3) If you were given the same chance as Timothy, would you take it?
* Reading Level/Interest Age
Grade 7 and Up / 12-16 year olds
* Challenge Issues and Defense
Challenge Issues: Nudity, Demons, Satan, 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 if they can be found online or in an electronic database.
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 liked that this graphic novel was comprised of four volumes that had been put together later to make this one; so the artist in each part is different. This creates an honest reality of the magical realms because each was created with a new style by a new artist. The story is also fun; what teen does not want the chance to have magic in their life? I always appreciate Neil Gaiman’s humor so the graphic has three great aspects which I felt should be included in a blog on young adult books I love.
Blood and Chocolate
* Bibliographic information
Klause, A. C. Blood and Chocolate. Delacorte, 1997. ISBN: 9780385323055
- Booklist Editors' Choice - Books for Youth - Older Readers Category: 1997
- YALSA Best Books for Young Adults: 1998
- YALSA Quick Picks for Reluctant Young Adult Readers: 1998
- School Library Journal Best Books: 1997
* Plot Summary
Vivian has lost her father and is trying hard to deal with her grieving mother who is slowly self-destructing. Vivian is also a werewolf; part of a pack that is currently unorganized after losing her father because of another werewolf’s mistake. The pact has moved to a different area which means a new school for Vivian. She is feeling alone and does not relate to the male werewolves of her age in the pact, because they are out of control and reckless. She meets a human boy, Aiden who she becomes friends with and starts to like. She is supposed to be with a werewolf but she desires Aiden, a human. She worries he will no longer like her if she shows him what she is. Even if she can make him love her, werewolf and all, she knows she will have to fight her pack to keep him safe if she wants to have a life with him.
* Critical Evaluation
This is a beautifully written tale of a teenager who just wants a normal life. Vivian is a werewolf; she has more to deal with than most teens. Still, she is a strong female who worries about the pack and the well being of her mother. When the human, Aiden comes along and she realizes she has feelings for him she knows it is her one chance at happiness. Nobody in the pack thinks of her feelings or wants so it is up to her to take care of them. She is a brave character and teens will love her for that. Teens will also love the action that comes with the werewolves and the contrast between Gabriel and Aiden. Klause illustrates scenes with her writing that allow readers to imagine exactly what is happening and what it would look like if they were there. A great story for fans of fantasy and young adult novels.
* Reader’s Annotation
Teenage Vivian is having trouble adjusting to a new life in a new town; her mom is grieving over the death of her father and she has a crush on a boy at school. In addition to her problems as a teenager, she is also a werewolf who wishes she could be a normal teenage girl who gets the boy.
* Information about the author
Klause is a librarian and an author who writes young adult novels. She was born in England but now lives in Maryland with her husband and their cats. She attended the University of Maryland, College Park where she received her Bachelor of Arts in English and her Master of Library Science degrees.
* Genre
Teen Fiction; Fantasy, Horror, Issues
* Curriculum Ties, if any
N/A
* Booktalking Ideas
1) Discuss the difference between Rafe and Aiden.
2) Vivian is a strong female character, talk about why that is.
3) If Vivian’s father had never died, do you think Vivian would have still ended up liking a human boy instead of one from the pack?
* Reading Level/Interest Age
Grade 9 and Up / 16 and Up
* Challenge Issues and Defense
Challenge Issues: Horror 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 Booklist, http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/product-description/0385734212/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?
Vivian is a very strong female character and I think her story needed to be in my collection. In addition to the fantasy aspects of the novel; have to love the werewolves, her story of struggling with her identity and home life, are enough to make a great novel. I think teens who read this book will love it because even though she is a werewolf, the author has created a character that is relatable to teens through her issues and vulnerabilities. Vivian just wants a home she can be comfortable in, kind friends, and a partner to share her life with; what young adult does not want that.
Klause, A. C. Blood and Chocolate. Delacorte, 1997. ISBN: 9780385323055
- Booklist Editors' Choice - Books for Youth - Older Readers Category: 1997
- YALSA Best Books for Young Adults: 1998
- YALSA Quick Picks for Reluctant Young Adult Readers: 1998
- School Library Journal Best Books: 1997
* Plot Summary
Vivian has lost her father and is trying hard to deal with her grieving mother who is slowly self-destructing. Vivian is also a werewolf; part of a pack that is currently unorganized after losing her father because of another werewolf’s mistake. The pact has moved to a different area which means a new school for Vivian. She is feeling alone and does not relate to the male werewolves of her age in the pact, because they are out of control and reckless. She meets a human boy, Aiden who she becomes friends with and starts to like. She is supposed to be with a werewolf but she desires Aiden, a human. She worries he will no longer like her if she shows him what she is. Even if she can make him love her, werewolf and all, she knows she will have to fight her pack to keep him safe if she wants to have a life with him.
* Critical Evaluation
This is a beautifully written tale of a teenager who just wants a normal life. Vivian is a werewolf; she has more to deal with than most teens. Still, she is a strong female who worries about the pack and the well being of her mother. When the human, Aiden comes along and she realizes she has feelings for him she knows it is her one chance at happiness. Nobody in the pack thinks of her feelings or wants so it is up to her to take care of them. She is a brave character and teens will love her for that. Teens will also love the action that comes with the werewolves and the contrast between Gabriel and Aiden. Klause illustrates scenes with her writing that allow readers to imagine exactly what is happening and what it would look like if they were there. A great story for fans of fantasy and young adult novels.
* Reader’s Annotation
Teenage Vivian is having trouble adjusting to a new life in a new town; her mom is grieving over the death of her father and she has a crush on a boy at school. In addition to her problems as a teenager, she is also a werewolf who wishes she could be a normal teenage girl who gets the boy.
* Information about the author
Klause is a librarian and an author who writes young adult novels. She was born in England but now lives in Maryland with her husband and their cats. She attended the University of Maryland, College Park where she received her Bachelor of Arts in English and her Master of Library Science degrees.
* Genre
Teen Fiction; Fantasy, Horror, Issues
* Curriculum Ties, if any
N/A
* Booktalking Ideas
1) Discuss the difference between Rafe and Aiden.
2) Vivian is a strong female character, talk about why that is.
3) If Vivian’s father had never died, do you think Vivian would have still ended up liking a human boy instead of one from the pack?
* Reading Level/Interest Age
Grade 9 and Up / 16 and Up
* Challenge Issues and Defense
Challenge Issues: Horror 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 Booklist, http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/product-description/0385734212/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?
Vivian is a very strong female character and I think her story needed to be in my collection. In addition to the fantasy aspects of the novel; have to love the werewolves, her story of struggling with her identity and home life, are enough to make a great novel. I think teens who read this book will love it because even though she is a werewolf, the author has created a character that is relatable to teens through her issues and vulnerabilities. Vivian just wants a home she can be comfortable in, kind friends, and a partner to share her life with; what young adult does not want that.
Hellboy: Darkness Calls
* Bibliographic information
Mignola, M. Hellboy: Darkness Calls. Dark Horse Comics, 2008. ISBN: 9781593078966. Art by Fegredo, D.
* Plot Summary
Hellboy’s longtime foe Baba Yaga, an ancient witch, is after him again; she wants his eye because the last time they met, he took hers. Meanwhile the rest of the witches are gathering and searching for a new leader; their main choice, Hellboy turned them down. Baba Yaga sends an army of skeletons after Hellboy and true to his nature he decides to fight them all on his own, until he has a moment of awareness and turns tail to run into the woods. Here, he gets an unlikely ally; someone who hates Baba Yaga just as much as him. When the skeletons do not do the trick she sends Koshchei after him; a warrior she has enslaved who cannot die. The story follows Hellboy as he tries to keep away from Baba Yaga and those who do her bidding so he can stay alive.
* Critical Evaluation
An exciting story that is beautifully drawn. I read that this is the first time the author Mignola has given the illustrating duties away, but from what I can tell, Duncan Fegredo does an amazing job. If someone is just picking up this issue and reading Hellboy for the first time they will have trouble following along. I had to do some background work to understand what was happening and to find out who everyone was. However, the action is great and the scenes are extremely well drawn. Many people may be turned off by the gore but I think it is not too over the top. The novel provided an introduction and I would have liked to see more of a set-up for the story other than general information about the series. Overall a good read with plenty of action and suspense.
* Reader’s Annotation
Hellboy is at it again; making people angry so they want to fight him is just a typical day in his world. This time it is a longtime foe, the ancient witch Baba Yaga, and she wants payback for Hellboy taking her eye.
* Information about the author
Mignola is an American comic book writer and artist who was born in California. He is most famous for creating the Hellboy series in 1994. He won the Will Eisner Comic Industry Award for Best Writer/Artist in 1995 and 1996; both for Hellboy stories. To learn more about Hellboy or Mignola’s other work, check out http://www.darkhorse.com/Zones/Hellboy.
* Genre
Teen Fiction; Graphic Novel, Action, Horror
* Curriculum Ties, if any
N/A
* Booktalking Ideas
1) What aspects of Hellboy’s personality cause him to take on fights with huge armies of skeletons?
2) Talk about the character of Hellboy, why is he so entertaining? Why do fans love the character so much?
3) Talk about the group of witches who wanted Hellboy as their leader. Why are they befriending him when their fellow witch Baba Yaga hates him?
* Reading Level/Interest Age
Grade 10 and Up / 16 and Up
* Challenge Issues and Defense
Challenge Issues: Nudity, Horror, Language, 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 if they can be found online or in an electronic database; http://comicbooks.about.com/od/comicbookreviews/fr/hellboydarkness.htm#.
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 wanted to make sure I had some good graphic novels in my selection so I grabbed a Hellboy story that had an interesting cover. I love the first Hellboy movie so I have always wanted to read the graphic novels that inspired the movie. Older teens like the more mature illustrations and the gore that come with Hellboy graphic novels so I thought this would fit in nice with other books geared towards older teens. Hellboy can almost be seen as an adult graphic novel because of the content so it is a clear choice for this collection.
Mignola, M. Hellboy: Darkness Calls. Dark Horse Comics, 2008. ISBN: 9781593078966. Art by Fegredo, D.
* Plot Summary
Hellboy’s longtime foe Baba Yaga, an ancient witch, is after him again; she wants his eye because the last time they met, he took hers. Meanwhile the rest of the witches are gathering and searching for a new leader; their main choice, Hellboy turned them down. Baba Yaga sends an army of skeletons after Hellboy and true to his nature he decides to fight them all on his own, until he has a moment of awareness and turns tail to run into the woods. Here, he gets an unlikely ally; someone who hates Baba Yaga just as much as him. When the skeletons do not do the trick she sends Koshchei after him; a warrior she has enslaved who cannot die. The story follows Hellboy as he tries to keep away from Baba Yaga and those who do her bidding so he can stay alive.
* Critical Evaluation
An exciting story that is beautifully drawn. I read that this is the first time the author Mignola has given the illustrating duties away, but from what I can tell, Duncan Fegredo does an amazing job. If someone is just picking up this issue and reading Hellboy for the first time they will have trouble following along. I had to do some background work to understand what was happening and to find out who everyone was. However, the action is great and the scenes are extremely well drawn. Many people may be turned off by the gore but I think it is not too over the top. The novel provided an introduction and I would have liked to see more of a set-up for the story other than general information about the series. Overall a good read with plenty of action and suspense.
* Reader’s Annotation
Hellboy is at it again; making people angry so they want to fight him is just a typical day in his world. This time it is a longtime foe, the ancient witch Baba Yaga, and she wants payback for Hellboy taking her eye.
* Information about the author
Mignola is an American comic book writer and artist who was born in California. He is most famous for creating the Hellboy series in 1994. He won the Will Eisner Comic Industry Award for Best Writer/Artist in 1995 and 1996; both for Hellboy stories. To learn more about Hellboy or Mignola’s other work, check out http://www.darkhorse.com/Zones/Hellboy.
* Genre
Teen Fiction; Graphic Novel, Action, Horror
* Curriculum Ties, if any
N/A
* Booktalking Ideas
1) What aspects of Hellboy’s personality cause him to take on fights with huge armies of skeletons?
2) Talk about the character of Hellboy, why is he so entertaining? Why do fans love the character so much?
3) Talk about the group of witches who wanted Hellboy as their leader. Why are they befriending him when their fellow witch Baba Yaga hates him?
* Reading Level/Interest Age
Grade 10 and Up / 16 and Up
* Challenge Issues and Defense
Challenge Issues: Nudity, Horror, Language, 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 if they can be found online or in an electronic database; http://comicbooks.about.com/od/comicbookreviews/fr/hellboydarkness.htm#.
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 wanted to make sure I had some good graphic novels in my selection so I grabbed a Hellboy story that had an interesting cover. I love the first Hellboy movie so I have always wanted to read the graphic novels that inspired the movie. Older teens like the more mature illustrations and the gore that come with Hellboy graphic novels so I thought this would fit in nice with other books geared towards older teens. Hellboy can almost be seen as an adult graphic novel because of the content so it is a clear choice for this collection.
Jingle Belle
* Bibliographic information
Dini, P. Jingle Belle. Dark horse Comics, 2005. ISBN: 9781593073824. Art by Numerous Artist (different for each story)
* Plot Summary
This is a collection of short comics featuring Jingle Belle, Santa’s rebellious teenage daughter. Read about her attempt to get fans by creating a holiday cartoon about herself. She also stops in on her witch friend, Polly to give some family advice. Jingle Belle is everywhere in these stories and in one, boyfriends from her past talk about how they once knew her years ago. In another story she gets into quite a bit of trouble when she turns an amusement park known as Santaville into a holiday themed Las Vegas. Very colorful comics that are great for the holiday season.
* Critical Evaluation
Dini’s quirky character of Jingle Belle is sure to make anyone laugh. The writing is simple and the artwork is fun. What if Santa Claus had a daughter? It is a very interesting idea for a comic and that is why it works. It is especially funny when Santa is arguing with Jingle Belle down the chimney at Polly’s house. In another story it shows lots of old men who dated Jingle back when they were young; this means she has been a teen for a long time. Any parent who reads this comic will understand what a nightmare that is and teens will find it hilarious when Santa gets frustrated with Jingle. This is fun comic that will make people smile during the holidays.
* Reader’s Annotation
Nobody has ever hear of Santa Claus’ daughter, Jingle Belle and she just found out. Watch as Jingle tries to create a holiday cartoon to get the world’s attention.
* Information about the author
“Paul Dini a five- time Emmy award- winning writer, producer, and cartoonist” according to amazon.com. He has also written for cartoon television shows such as Tiny Toon Adventures and Batman: The Animated Series. In this graphic novel of Jingle Belle, he has incorporated some of the characters from his other works like Sheriff Ida Red from Mutant, Texas. In his spare time he is an active crypto zoologist, hunter, and wildlife photographer. He was born in New York but him and his wife now live in Lose Angeles.
* Genre
Teen Fiction; Comic, Christmas Season
* Curriculum Ties, if any
N/A
* Booktalking Ideas
1) Talk about the character of Jingle, can you think of another mischievous story line for her?
2) Santa warns jingle that cartoons have changed but she does not listen and is angry when the TV network sets her straight. Do you prefer 3D cartoons or Stop Motion?
3) Jingle makes a big mistake when she re-designs Santaville, think of some ways it could improved in a good way.
* Reading Level/Interest Age
Grade 8 and Up / 13-17 year olds
* Challenge Issues and Defense
N/A
* Why did you include this book in your titles you selected?
I included this comic book because it is the holiday season and what better way to celebrate it than to read a comic about Santa’s rebel daughter. Jingle is a fun character that gets into mischief in the typical over the top teen way portrayed by most cartoons. I think it is good to have some selections in a collection that are just fun like this one; tis the season!
Dini, P. Jingle Belle. Dark horse Comics, 2005. ISBN: 9781593073824. Art by Numerous Artist (different for each story)
* Plot Summary
This is a collection of short comics featuring Jingle Belle, Santa’s rebellious teenage daughter. Read about her attempt to get fans by creating a holiday cartoon about herself. She also stops in on her witch friend, Polly to give some family advice. Jingle Belle is everywhere in these stories and in one, boyfriends from her past talk about how they once knew her years ago. In another story she gets into quite a bit of trouble when she turns an amusement park known as Santaville into a holiday themed Las Vegas. Very colorful comics that are great for the holiday season.
* Critical Evaluation
Dini’s quirky character of Jingle Belle is sure to make anyone laugh. The writing is simple and the artwork is fun. What if Santa Claus had a daughter? It is a very interesting idea for a comic and that is why it works. It is especially funny when Santa is arguing with Jingle Belle down the chimney at Polly’s house. In another story it shows lots of old men who dated Jingle back when they were young; this means she has been a teen for a long time. Any parent who reads this comic will understand what a nightmare that is and teens will find it hilarious when Santa gets frustrated with Jingle. This is fun comic that will make people smile during the holidays.
* Reader’s Annotation
Nobody has ever hear of Santa Claus’ daughter, Jingle Belle and she just found out. Watch as Jingle tries to create a holiday cartoon to get the world’s attention.
* Information about the author
“Paul Dini a five- time Emmy award- winning writer, producer, and cartoonist” according to amazon.com. He has also written for cartoon television shows such as Tiny Toon Adventures and Batman: The Animated Series. In this graphic novel of Jingle Belle, he has incorporated some of the characters from his other works like Sheriff Ida Red from Mutant, Texas. In his spare time he is an active crypto zoologist, hunter, and wildlife photographer. He was born in New York but him and his wife now live in Lose Angeles.
* Genre
Teen Fiction; Comic, Christmas Season
* Curriculum Ties, if any
N/A
* Booktalking Ideas
1) Talk about the character of Jingle, can you think of another mischievous story line for her?
2) Santa warns jingle that cartoons have changed but she does not listen and is angry when the TV network sets her straight. Do you prefer 3D cartoons or Stop Motion?
3) Jingle makes a big mistake when she re-designs Santaville, think of some ways it could improved in a good way.
* Reading Level/Interest Age
Grade 8 and Up / 13-17 year olds
* Challenge Issues and Defense
N/A
* Why did you include this book in your titles you selected?
I included this comic book because it is the holiday season and what better way to celebrate it than to read a comic about Santa’s rebel daughter. Jingle is a fun character that gets into mischief in the typical over the top teen way portrayed by most cartoons. I think it is good to have some selections in a collection that are just fun like this one; tis the season!
Confessions of a Blabbermouth
* Bibliographic information
Carey, M. & Carey, L. Confessions of a Blabbermouth. DC Comics, 2007. ISBN: 9781401211486. Illustrated by Aaron Alexovich.
* Plot Summary
In this smart graphic novel, Tasha is a punky teenage blabbermouth with a successful blog. When her mom brings home her newest boyfriend, Jed after a long line of losers, Tasha is weary. She takes to her blog and talks about the past male mistakes of her mom and how this one will not be any better. She quickly learns Jed is a control freak and expects her to do as he says; he obviously does not know Tasha. His daughter, Chloe starts school with Tasha the next day and she wants to give her the benefit of the doubt but Chloe is a bit strange and Tasha does not know why. When Tasha learns that Chloe has written a hurtful article based loosely on her, she lashes out and tells the school bullies that Chloe is a snitch which results in them beating Chloe up. Tasha feels guilty later when she learns Chloe and Jed have a secret that Chloe does not want to keep. Tasha takes her under her wing and helps her gain her literary freedom.
* Critical Evaluation
A fun graphic novel for today’s teens. One of the authors, Louise Carey is actually a 15-year-old girl so she lends her insight into the teen world for this story. The pictures are fun and the dialogue is quirky. Many modern teens have blogs so they will appreciate seeing a strong female character typing away, posting on her blog. The plot line is different and keeps readers wondering what is going on between Jed and Chloe. Like Tasha, readers start to think the worst only to find out the situation is not so dire but rather mild; this creates good suspense. Some of the terms used were unfamiliar to me, this could have been a generational thing or because the graphic novel is from England. I think teens will really enjoy this book; the characters are interesting and fun, the story has a bit of suspense mixed in with the humor, and it is visually exciting.
* Reader’s Annotation
Tasha’s mom is bringing home a new boyfriend and Tasha is not happy about it. Her blog, Blabbermouth is just the place to go to vent about it.
* Information about the author
Mike and Louise Carey are a father-daughter writing team; they both live in London, England. Mike is a comics writer, novelist and screenwriter. He is the author of the popular Felix Castor novels and the RE-GIFTERS. He says “his real claim to fame is working with his fifteen-year-old daughter, Louise”. Louise writes the Diary of a London Schoolgirl for the London Metropolitan Archive website.
* Genre
Teen Fiction; Graphic Novel, Issues
* Curriculum Ties, if any
Computer Science:
This book could be used to teach about blogs and what can be done with them but most teens already know all there is to know about blogs.
* Booktalking Ideas
1) Describe the character of Tasha. When Chloe first arrives she wants to be nice to her when everyone else is not but then she goes on the warpath when she read the article about bloggers.
2) Were you surprised that after Jed lied and used his daughter, Tasha and her mom forgave him and life went on?
3) Before Jed came along, what other things can you imagine Tasha wrote about?
* Reading Level/Interest Age
Grade 7 and Up / 13-18 years old
* Challenge Issues and Defense
N/A
* Why did you include this book in your titles you selected?
I included this title on my blog because I am so used to seeing the typical action hero graphic novel or Manga cover that I was ecstatic when I came across this one. I had to include it based on visuals alone but then I read it and loved the story as well. I like seeing such a strong female character such as Tasha who has her flaws just like everyone else, like when she told the bullies lies about Chloe but all in all she is a good person. She gets out her frustrations on her blog which is very common among today’s teens so I find this book extremely relatable for them. This is a fun easy read that should be shared among young adults.
Carey, M. & Carey, L. Confessions of a Blabbermouth. DC Comics, 2007. ISBN: 9781401211486. Illustrated by Aaron Alexovich.
* Plot Summary
In this smart graphic novel, Tasha is a punky teenage blabbermouth with a successful blog. When her mom brings home her newest boyfriend, Jed after a long line of losers, Tasha is weary. She takes to her blog and talks about the past male mistakes of her mom and how this one will not be any better. She quickly learns Jed is a control freak and expects her to do as he says; he obviously does not know Tasha. His daughter, Chloe starts school with Tasha the next day and she wants to give her the benefit of the doubt but Chloe is a bit strange and Tasha does not know why. When Tasha learns that Chloe has written a hurtful article based loosely on her, she lashes out and tells the school bullies that Chloe is a snitch which results in them beating Chloe up. Tasha feels guilty later when she learns Chloe and Jed have a secret that Chloe does not want to keep. Tasha takes her under her wing and helps her gain her literary freedom.
* Critical Evaluation
A fun graphic novel for today’s teens. One of the authors, Louise Carey is actually a 15-year-old girl so she lends her insight into the teen world for this story. The pictures are fun and the dialogue is quirky. Many modern teens have blogs so they will appreciate seeing a strong female character typing away, posting on her blog. The plot line is different and keeps readers wondering what is going on between Jed and Chloe. Like Tasha, readers start to think the worst only to find out the situation is not so dire but rather mild; this creates good suspense. Some of the terms used were unfamiliar to me, this could have been a generational thing or because the graphic novel is from England. I think teens will really enjoy this book; the characters are interesting and fun, the story has a bit of suspense mixed in with the humor, and it is visually exciting.
* Reader’s Annotation
Tasha’s mom is bringing home a new boyfriend and Tasha is not happy about it. Her blog, Blabbermouth is just the place to go to vent about it.
* Information about the author
Mike and Louise Carey are a father-daughter writing team; they both live in London, England. Mike is a comics writer, novelist and screenwriter. He is the author of the popular Felix Castor novels and the RE-GIFTERS. He says “his real claim to fame is working with his fifteen-year-old daughter, Louise”. Louise writes the Diary of a London Schoolgirl for the London Metropolitan Archive website.
* Genre
Teen Fiction; Graphic Novel, Issues
* Curriculum Ties, if any
Computer Science:
This book could be used to teach about blogs and what can be done with them but most teens already know all there is to know about blogs.
* Booktalking Ideas
1) Describe the character of Tasha. When Chloe first arrives she wants to be nice to her when everyone else is not but then she goes on the warpath when she read the article about bloggers.
2) Were you surprised that after Jed lied and used his daughter, Tasha and her mom forgave him and life went on?
3) Before Jed came along, what other things can you imagine Tasha wrote about?
* Reading Level/Interest Age
Grade 7 and Up / 13-18 years old
* Challenge Issues and Defense
N/A
* Why did you include this book in your titles you selected?
I included this title on my blog because I am so used to seeing the typical action hero graphic novel or Manga cover that I was ecstatic when I came across this one. I had to include it based on visuals alone but then I read it and loved the story as well. I like seeing such a strong female character such as Tasha who has her flaws just like everyone else, like when she told the bullies lies about Chloe but all in all she is a good person. She gets out her frustrations on her blog which is very common among today’s teens so I find this book extremely relatable for them. This is a fun easy read that should be shared among young adults.
Indian by Choice
* Bibliographic information
DasGupta, A. Indian by Choice. New Dehli: Wisdom Tree, 2009. ISBN: 9788183281362. Art by Neelabh
* Plot Summary
Mandy is a second generation Indian who was born in America and hates the thought of visiting his family in India. When his parents are no longer able to make it to a family wedding in India, Mandy is forced to go in their place. As soon as he arrives at his family’s house in India he writes to his parents complaining about everything, to the tiniest detail. After the wedding and the party, and everyone calling him Mandeep; everyone says Mandy is not a name, Mandy meets his distant cousin, Simitra. Simitra takes him to explore Delhi and other parts of India and they grow to be great friends. Through their tours, Mandy starts to realize India is not as bad as he had initially thought; although he still prefers America. When he leaves to go back to Chicago he says he will keep in touch and he means it because he has grown very close to everyone he met on his trip. This is a story of self-discovery and learning to be comfortable with where you came from.
* Critical Evaluation
A great story about identity and figuring out who you want to be. I do not claim to know a lot about Indian culture so it was nice to learn more about those who live here versus those who live in India. I also liked that they interspersed Hindu into the dialogue and had explanations for the words at the bottom; it made it feel more authentic. Mandy is such a stubborn character but his family never got bothered by it, they just continued to educate him on their country and why they love it. It made for a lovely family story. The illustrations were amazing too, some of the places they visited in the book looked real because they used photographic images. The entire novel looked to realistic; it give the reader the feeling that they are right there in Delhi. Although Mandy’s opinion of India did not change drastically, it was nice to see him claim his heritage at the end when he finally says “I’m Mandeep”.
* Reader’s Annotation
Mandy is reluctant to travel to India for a family wedding. While he is there he learns about his family’s culture and home which makes him rethink his own identity.
* Information about the author
DasGupta has a wife and an adult daughter. In addition to writing, he enjoys cooking, photography and chess. He says he is an Indian by birth and by choice.
* Genre
Teen/Adult Fiction; Graphic Novel, Family/Identity Issues
* Curriculum Ties, if any
Indian Culture and History:
This graphic novel could aid in teaching students about Indian culture and history. It has great references to important attractions and events.
* Booktalking Ideas
1) At the end of the book, Mandy and Simitra said their goodbyes and she shed a tear. Do you think they will develop a new kind of relationship in the future?
2) Discuss Mandy’s maturity throughout the book. Do you think he is really ready to embrace India and his culture, or do you think he will go back to his old ways?
3) How do you feel about arranged marriages versus what Mandy calls “love marriages”?
* Reading Level/Interest Age
Grade 11 and Up / 16 and Up
* Challenge Issues and Defense
N/A
* Why did you include this book in your titles you selected?
I liked the title of the book, it sounded so confident and full of self knowing so I picked it at the library and read it. I have a friend who is very much like Mandy which made me want to read it even more. I have always found Indian culture quite interesting but unfortunately I know little about it. There are probably a lot of second generation teens born in America who feel the way Mandy does and never give their culture a chance. This would be a great story for them; it might make them rethink their stance on the subject.
DasGupta, A. Indian by Choice. New Dehli: Wisdom Tree, 2009. ISBN: 9788183281362. Art by Neelabh
* Plot Summary
Mandy is a second generation Indian who was born in America and hates the thought of visiting his family in India. When his parents are no longer able to make it to a family wedding in India, Mandy is forced to go in their place. As soon as he arrives at his family’s house in India he writes to his parents complaining about everything, to the tiniest detail. After the wedding and the party, and everyone calling him Mandeep; everyone says Mandy is not a name, Mandy meets his distant cousin, Simitra. Simitra takes him to explore Delhi and other parts of India and they grow to be great friends. Through their tours, Mandy starts to realize India is not as bad as he had initially thought; although he still prefers America. When he leaves to go back to Chicago he says he will keep in touch and he means it because he has grown very close to everyone he met on his trip. This is a story of self-discovery and learning to be comfortable with where you came from.
* Critical Evaluation
A great story about identity and figuring out who you want to be. I do not claim to know a lot about Indian culture so it was nice to learn more about those who live here versus those who live in India. I also liked that they interspersed Hindu into the dialogue and had explanations for the words at the bottom; it made it feel more authentic. Mandy is such a stubborn character but his family never got bothered by it, they just continued to educate him on their country and why they love it. It made for a lovely family story. The illustrations were amazing too, some of the places they visited in the book looked real because they used photographic images. The entire novel looked to realistic; it give the reader the feeling that they are right there in Delhi. Although Mandy’s opinion of India did not change drastically, it was nice to see him claim his heritage at the end when he finally says “I’m Mandeep”.
* Reader’s Annotation
Mandy is reluctant to travel to India for a family wedding. While he is there he learns about his family’s culture and home which makes him rethink his own identity.
* Information about the author
DasGupta has a wife and an adult daughter. In addition to writing, he enjoys cooking, photography and chess. He says he is an Indian by birth and by choice.
* Genre
Teen/Adult Fiction; Graphic Novel, Family/Identity Issues
* Curriculum Ties, if any
Indian Culture and History:
This graphic novel could aid in teaching students about Indian culture and history. It has great references to important attractions and events.
* Booktalking Ideas
1) At the end of the book, Mandy and Simitra said their goodbyes and she shed a tear. Do you think they will develop a new kind of relationship in the future?
2) Discuss Mandy’s maturity throughout the book. Do you think he is really ready to embrace India and his culture, or do you think he will go back to his old ways?
3) How do you feel about arranged marriages versus what Mandy calls “love marriages”?
* Reading Level/Interest Age
Grade 11 and Up / 16 and Up
* Challenge Issues and Defense
N/A
* Why did you include this book in your titles you selected?
I liked the title of the book, it sounded so confident and full of self knowing so I picked it at the library and read it. I have a friend who is very much like Mandy which made me want to read it even more. I have always found Indian culture quite interesting but unfortunately I know little about it. There are probably a lot of second generation teens born in America who feel the way Mandy does and never give their culture a chance. This would be a great story for them; it might make them rethink their stance on the subject.
Thirsty
* Bibliographic information
Anderson, M. T. Thirsty. Candlewick Press, 1997. ISBN: 9780763638955
- YALSA Quick Picks for Reluctant Young Adult Readers: 1998
- YALSA Popular Paperbacks for Young Adults: Death and Dying (2009)
* Plot Summary
Chris wants to be a normal teen; he wants to fit in at school and he REALLY wants to date Rebecca Schwartz. The only problem is that he is becoming a vampire. His thirst for blood is growing stronger and it is getting harder to control it. Chris wants to stay human more than anything, so when Chet the “Celestial Being” offers him a way to stay human, Chris is interested. The town is about to have its annual ritual where they secure the bonds that imprison the vampire god, Tch'muchgar. Chet say if Chris goes to where Tch'muchgar is and secures the lock that holds him, Chet will make him human again. Chris does not know if he can trust Chet or if he is who he says he is. Chris is also distracted by a seductive vampire named Lolli who wants him to embrace his vampire side and drink. Chris is having a hard time with his current situation and worries he will die soon if he does not get help or drink human blood.
* Critical Evaluation
A great vampire story for older teens. Chris is a reluctant vampire who is trying his best to stay human; his commentary is very funny at times. Chet is a very manipulative character that Chris wants so badly to trust because it means he will stay a human. Anderson has created a very interesting, suspenseful story with clever dialogue. All male teens can relate to the hormonal urges that Chris feels but with the vampire aspect added it makes for a comedic story. Anderson has amplified the struggle teens face as a result of the physical changes they are going through, especially teen boys who have a harder time hiding their hormonal impulses like Chris with his vampirism. Anderson employs some great twists with the character of Chet leaving people guessing to the very end.
* Reader’s Annotation
Chris just wants to be a normal teenager and date girls, but now he has to deal with becoming a vampire and the thirst that comes with it.
* Information about the author
Anderson is an American author; he mainly writes children’s picture books and novels for young adults. He was born in Massachusetts and currently lives there. He attended Syracuse, Harvard and the University of Cambridge. He has worked as a music critic and a college professor. He is on the board of the National Children's Book and Literacy Alliance. In addition to Thirsty, many of his novels have won awards, including Feed and his volumes of The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing.
* Genre
Teen Fiction; Fantasy, 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). There is a lot to learn about Chris in this novel through what he says about himself as a teenager and a vampire.
* Booktalking Ideas
1) Discuss the character of Chet, were you tricked by him?
2) At the end of the book Chris said being human “is a thousand choices every day,” what did he mean by this?
3) The end of the book is left open, what do you think will happen next?
* Reading Level/Interest Age
Grade 9 and Up / 14-17 year olds
* Challenge Issues and Defense
N/A
* Why did you include this book in your titles you selected?
I picked this book up to read because I had heard M. T. Anderson was an amazing author, from two youth librarians. I chose this specific book of his because of the cover. I think the cheesy plastic vampire teeth on the cover is a great touch; it lets people know they are in for a fun story. The book does a great job of mirroring the turmoil inside a teen boy as he goes through the physical changes of puberty with the changes associated with vampirism. Chris is a troubled character who knows what it means to be human and that is why he is holding tight to whatever bit of humanity he has left; a great character for older teens.
Anderson, M. T. Thirsty. Candlewick Press, 1997. ISBN: 9780763638955
- YALSA Quick Picks for Reluctant Young Adult Readers: 1998
- YALSA Popular Paperbacks for Young Adults: Death and Dying (2009)
* Plot Summary
Chris wants to be a normal teen; he wants to fit in at school and he REALLY wants to date Rebecca Schwartz. The only problem is that he is becoming a vampire. His thirst for blood is growing stronger and it is getting harder to control it. Chris wants to stay human more than anything, so when Chet the “Celestial Being” offers him a way to stay human, Chris is interested. The town is about to have its annual ritual where they secure the bonds that imprison the vampire god, Tch'muchgar. Chet say if Chris goes to where Tch'muchgar is and secures the lock that holds him, Chet will make him human again. Chris does not know if he can trust Chet or if he is who he says he is. Chris is also distracted by a seductive vampire named Lolli who wants him to embrace his vampire side and drink. Chris is having a hard time with his current situation and worries he will die soon if he does not get help or drink human blood.
* Critical Evaluation
A great vampire story for older teens. Chris is a reluctant vampire who is trying his best to stay human; his commentary is very funny at times. Chet is a very manipulative character that Chris wants so badly to trust because it means he will stay a human. Anderson has created a very interesting, suspenseful story with clever dialogue. All male teens can relate to the hormonal urges that Chris feels but with the vampire aspect added it makes for a comedic story. Anderson has amplified the struggle teens face as a result of the physical changes they are going through, especially teen boys who have a harder time hiding their hormonal impulses like Chris with his vampirism. Anderson employs some great twists with the character of Chet leaving people guessing to the very end.
* Reader’s Annotation
Chris just wants to be a normal teenager and date girls, but now he has to deal with becoming a vampire and the thirst that comes with it.
* Information about the author
Anderson is an American author; he mainly writes children’s picture books and novels for young adults. He was born in Massachusetts and currently lives there. He attended Syracuse, Harvard and the University of Cambridge. He has worked as a music critic and a college professor. He is on the board of the National Children's Book and Literacy Alliance. In addition to Thirsty, many of his novels have won awards, including Feed and his volumes of The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing.
* Genre
Teen Fiction; Fantasy, 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). There is a lot to learn about Chris in this novel through what he says about himself as a teenager and a vampire.
* Booktalking Ideas
1) Discuss the character of Chet, were you tricked by him?
2) At the end of the book Chris said being human “is a thousand choices every day,” what did he mean by this?
3) The end of the book is left open, what do you think will happen next?
* Reading Level/Interest Age
Grade 9 and Up / 14-17 year olds
* Challenge Issues and Defense
N/A
* Why did you include this book in your titles you selected?
I picked this book up to read because I had heard M. T. Anderson was an amazing author, from two youth librarians. I chose this specific book of his because of the cover. I think the cheesy plastic vampire teeth on the cover is a great touch; it lets people know they are in for a fun story. The book does a great job of mirroring the turmoil inside a teen boy as he goes through the physical changes of puberty with the changes associated with vampirism. Chris is a troubled character who knows what it means to be human and that is why he is holding tight to whatever bit of humanity he has left; a great character for older teens.
Grand and Humble
* Bibliographic information
Hartinger, B. Grand and Humble. HarperCollins, 2006. ISBN: 9780060567279
- Winner of the Scandiuzzi Children’s Book Award
- A TeenReads.com "Best of 2006"- A Genrefluent "Best of 2006"
* Plot Summary
Alternating chapters with Harlan and Mandy follow two boys who are complete opposites of each other. Harlan is the school president and captain of the swim team, he has important parents and lives a life of privilege with parties and beautiful girlfriends. Mandy is invisible at school; he enjoys making movies and designing websites while his dad works hard to support them. Then they both start to share a common dread. Manny is having horrible nightmares that appear to be his past. Harlan is panicking with jarring visions of the future. Both of them know there is a secret linked with the intersection of Grand and Humble. Before the end of the book readers will be shocked by a surprise they could not have seen coming. The ending will leave readers thinking about things they overlooked throughout the book.
* Critical Evaluation
Hartinger has created a wonderful “what if?” scenario with this ending. Harlan and Mandy have so little in common and then readers find out they have something very basic and important in common. Many readers will go back through and look for clues; much like the film the Sixth Sense with its surprise twist at the end. Teens will enjoy this realistic take on differences between individuals; the contrasting characters mirror teens in every high school. The added mystery makes the story more exciting and will guarantee readers’ attention even after they have finished the book. The suspense being built throughout the book is a character in itself as Harlan and Mandy try to dissect their visions and nightmares in an attempt to find some meaning.
* Reader’s Annotation
Harlan and Mandy could not be any more different, but they do share a secret that connects them in a mysterious way.
* Information about the author
Hartinger is an author and a playwright. Before he was able to get his books published he wrote playwrights that were picked up. He says he is living the dream and loves to read, go to the movies and plays and he enjoys playing computer games. Him and his partner, Michael also love to travel; they live in Tacoma, Washington.
* Genre
Teen Fiction; Behavioral, Mental and Family Issues
* Curriculum Ties, if any
N/A
* Booktalking Ideas
1) The book talks about all the ways that Mandy and Harlan are different, in what ways are they the same?
2) How does the character of Harlan change in the book? What does his mother have to do with this change?
3) Do you believe that our experiences make us who we are today or do you think we are born a certain way?
* Reading Level/Interest Age
Grade 7 and Up / 14-18 year olds
* Challenge Issues and Defense
N/A
* Why did you include this book in your titles you selected?
I included this book at first because as I started to read it I found it both exciting and suspenseful and then when I go to the end I still liked it but was a bit confused. After searching for some insight I found out the true meaning of the ending and I thought it was brilliant. I mentioned this above, but it reminds me of the Sixth Sense and how if you go back through that movie you can see clues that lead viewers to the ending. This book does much the same thing but it is less noticeable; at least to me. I thought even without the ending I enjoyed the contrasting characters; but then to find out they were one in the same made it a much more original story.
Hartinger, B. Grand and Humble. HarperCollins, 2006. ISBN: 9780060567279
- Winner of the Scandiuzzi Children’s Book Award
- A TeenReads.com "Best of 2006"- A Genrefluent "Best of 2006"
* Plot Summary
Alternating chapters with Harlan and Mandy follow two boys who are complete opposites of each other. Harlan is the school president and captain of the swim team, he has important parents and lives a life of privilege with parties and beautiful girlfriends. Mandy is invisible at school; he enjoys making movies and designing websites while his dad works hard to support them. Then they both start to share a common dread. Manny is having horrible nightmares that appear to be his past. Harlan is panicking with jarring visions of the future. Both of them know there is a secret linked with the intersection of Grand and Humble. Before the end of the book readers will be shocked by a surprise they could not have seen coming. The ending will leave readers thinking about things they overlooked throughout the book.
* Critical Evaluation
Hartinger has created a wonderful “what if?” scenario with this ending. Harlan and Mandy have so little in common and then readers find out they have something very basic and important in common. Many readers will go back through and look for clues; much like the film the Sixth Sense with its surprise twist at the end. Teens will enjoy this realistic take on differences between individuals; the contrasting characters mirror teens in every high school. The added mystery makes the story more exciting and will guarantee readers’ attention even after they have finished the book. The suspense being built throughout the book is a character in itself as Harlan and Mandy try to dissect their visions and nightmares in an attempt to find some meaning.
* Reader’s Annotation
Harlan and Mandy could not be any more different, but they do share a secret that connects them in a mysterious way.
* Information about the author
Hartinger is an author and a playwright. Before he was able to get his books published he wrote playwrights that were picked up. He says he is living the dream and loves to read, go to the movies and plays and he enjoys playing computer games. Him and his partner, Michael also love to travel; they live in Tacoma, Washington.
* Genre
Teen Fiction; Behavioral, Mental and Family Issues
* Curriculum Ties, if any
N/A
* Booktalking Ideas
1) The book talks about all the ways that Mandy and Harlan are different, in what ways are they the same?
2) How does the character of Harlan change in the book? What does his mother have to do with this change?
3) Do you believe that our experiences make us who we are today or do you think we are born a certain way?
* Reading Level/Interest Age
Grade 7 and Up / 14-18 year olds
* Challenge Issues and Defense
N/A
* Why did you include this book in your titles you selected?
I included this book at first because as I started to read it I found it both exciting and suspenseful and then when I go to the end I still liked it but was a bit confused. After searching for some insight I found out the true meaning of the ending and I thought it was brilliant. I mentioned this above, but it reminds me of the Sixth Sense and how if you go back through that movie you can see clues that lead viewers to the ending. This book does much the same thing but it is less noticeable; at least to me. I thought even without the ending I enjoyed the contrasting characters; but then to find out they were one in the same made it a much more original story.
Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist
* Bibliographic information
Cohn, R. & Levithan, D. Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist. Random House, 2006. ISBN: 9780375835339
- YALSA Best Books for Young Adults: 2007
- YALSA Quick Picks for Reluctant Young Adult Readers: 2007
* Plot Summary
Nick and Norah have just met at a concert. Norah loves music and Nick plays in a band. Nick is suffering from a horrible breakup and when he sees his ex-girlfriend Tris, he asks Norah, a stranger to him, “would you mind being my girlfriend for the next five minutes?” Norah says no at first but then decides to when she learns it will make Tris angry. Before Norah knew Nick she knew of him; when he dated Tris he wrote her songs and poems and she cheated on him constantly. Norah and her friends thought he must be the best boyfriend ever. Norah figures he is a good guy and will surely give her and Caroline a ride home. This begins a long night of running around town seeing bands and trying to find her friend Caroline, after she wanders away from the van they are all riding in. A hilarious story told through alternating chapters of Nick’s and Norah’s points of view. By the end of the night they have discussed more than some people do after weeks of knowing each other.
* Critical Evaluation
A fun story about a great night. The characters go through all the events that make a strong lasting relationship; and they do it in one night. Having two characters that readers will truly love is hard to find in a young adult book, but these authors managed to do it. Readers follow Nick and Norah from the time they meet until they… get more acquainted. It is not often that you read a book that takes place within a night and two people find someone they care about and start a lasting relationship. The backdrop of the story is New York and the music which adds a reality to their fairy tale night. The characters are living it up in New York listening to the music they love and they bond over this. Cohn and Levithan have created a wonderful story that readers will love. With the release of the movie based on the book, more people have been given the chance to rediscover the book and the story that made them like the movie.
* Reader’s Annotation
Nick says, “would you mind being my girlfriend for the next five minutes?” and so begins a night of adventure, music and the start of a wonderful relationship.
* Information about the author
Cohn and Levithan are both highly acclaimed young adult authors. Cohn wrote Norah’s parts and Levithan wrote Nick’s.
Cohn is the author of the award winning young adult novel, Gingerbread and she lives in New York.
Levithan is the highly acclaimed author of young adult novel, Boy Meets Boy; he lives in New Jersey.
* Genre
Teen Fiction; Issues, Music
* Curriculum Ties, if any
N/A
* Booktalking Ideas
1) Tal is kind of like a boyfriend to Norah, but he treats her horribly. Why do you think such a smart girl puts up with that?
2) Talk about Norah’s relationship with Caroline; she is always looking after her and worrying about her.
3) Nick and Norah both think they have hit the jack pot in meeting each other, why do they both think they are not good enough for one another?
* Reading Level/Interest Age
Grade 9 and Up / 14-18 year olds
* Challenge Issues and Defense
Challenge Issues: Language, Homosexuality and Sex.
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/Nick-Norahs-Infinite-Playlist-Rachel/dp/037584614X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1260316468&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 picked this book because I am a romantic; this type of book really connects with me. I think teens who read this will feel the same way. Both Nick and Norah do not think much of themselves and they have both been treated poorly in the past. Now they both have a chance to be with someone amazing and they cannot see that they are amazing too. I like to think that they continued on with their relationship and eventually realized that they are both awesome. I love the story of them meeting and having so much in common that they talk all night on their adventures. It is great to see nice characters end up with each other. Many people do not like happy endings because they feel it all got wrapped up to perfectly and that is not realistic; I think happy endings have their place and it definitely helps when the characters are extremely funny.
Cohn, R. & Levithan, D. Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist. Random House, 2006. ISBN: 9780375835339
- YALSA Best Books for Young Adults: 2007
- YALSA Quick Picks for Reluctant Young Adult Readers: 2007
* Plot Summary
Nick and Norah have just met at a concert. Norah loves music and Nick plays in a band. Nick is suffering from a horrible breakup and when he sees his ex-girlfriend Tris, he asks Norah, a stranger to him, “would you mind being my girlfriend for the next five minutes?” Norah says no at first but then decides to when she learns it will make Tris angry. Before Norah knew Nick she knew of him; when he dated Tris he wrote her songs and poems and she cheated on him constantly. Norah and her friends thought he must be the best boyfriend ever. Norah figures he is a good guy and will surely give her and Caroline a ride home. This begins a long night of running around town seeing bands and trying to find her friend Caroline, after she wanders away from the van they are all riding in. A hilarious story told through alternating chapters of Nick’s and Norah’s points of view. By the end of the night they have discussed more than some people do after weeks of knowing each other.
* Critical Evaluation
A fun story about a great night. The characters go through all the events that make a strong lasting relationship; and they do it in one night. Having two characters that readers will truly love is hard to find in a young adult book, but these authors managed to do it. Readers follow Nick and Norah from the time they meet until they… get more acquainted. It is not often that you read a book that takes place within a night and two people find someone they care about and start a lasting relationship. The backdrop of the story is New York and the music which adds a reality to their fairy tale night. The characters are living it up in New York listening to the music they love and they bond over this. Cohn and Levithan have created a wonderful story that readers will love. With the release of the movie based on the book, more people have been given the chance to rediscover the book and the story that made them like the movie.
* Reader’s Annotation
Nick says, “would you mind being my girlfriend for the next five minutes?” and so begins a night of adventure, music and the start of a wonderful relationship.
* Information about the author
Cohn and Levithan are both highly acclaimed young adult authors. Cohn wrote Norah’s parts and Levithan wrote Nick’s.
Cohn is the author of the award winning young adult novel, Gingerbread and she lives in New York.
Levithan is the highly acclaimed author of young adult novel, Boy Meets Boy; he lives in New Jersey.
* Genre
Teen Fiction; Issues, Music
* Curriculum Ties, if any
N/A
* Booktalking Ideas
1) Tal is kind of like a boyfriend to Norah, but he treats her horribly. Why do you think such a smart girl puts up with that?
2) Talk about Norah’s relationship with Caroline; she is always looking after her and worrying about her.
3) Nick and Norah both think they have hit the jack pot in meeting each other, why do they both think they are not good enough for one another?
* Reading Level/Interest Age
Grade 9 and Up / 14-18 year olds
* Challenge Issues and Defense
Challenge Issues: Language, Homosexuality and Sex.
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/Nick-Norahs-Infinite-Playlist-Rachel/dp/037584614X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1260316468&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 picked this book because I am a romantic; this type of book really connects with me. I think teens who read this will feel the same way. Both Nick and Norah do not think much of themselves and they have both been treated poorly in the past. Now they both have a chance to be with someone amazing and they cannot see that they are amazing too. I like to think that they continued on with their relationship and eventually realized that they are both awesome. I love the story of them meeting and having so much in common that they talk all night on their adventures. It is great to see nice characters end up with each other. Many people do not like happy endings because they feel it all got wrapped up to perfectly and that is not realistic; I think happy endings have their place and it definitely helps when the characters are extremely funny.
On the Run
* Bibliographic information
Coleman, M. On the Run. Penguin, 2003. ISBN: 9780525473183
* Plot Summary
15-year-old Luke is no stranger to the justice system so it makes sense when he gets picked up at the scene of an auto theft. He was not the one who stole the car but he would have, had two thugs not pushed him out of the way at the last moment before taking off with the car. Luke is being charged with trying to get into the car during the crime and for attempting to steal the running shoes of the man who owned the car. Luke does not seem worried about his fate; he just knows he does not want to be locked up. He gets a second chance when the family who lost their car asks the magistrates to consider giving him community service; working with the vision impaired. Luke is told to help Jodi, the family’s blind daughter, train for a marathon. The book follows Luke as he matures and starts to gain confidence in himself through his work with Jodi.
* Critical Evaluation
Luke is a typical youth offender in the beginning of this story; continuing on the same path of self-destruction until he gets caught. A fantastic story of how a person can change when given a chance or a reason to. This would be a great book for teens that are stuck in a similar situation. Coleman created a character that starts out a criminal and becomes a person readers care about. Teens can turn their life around like Luke did by volunteering or helping others. The British terms were hard to understand at times but for the most part the surrounding dialogue helped clear up any confusion.
* Reader’s Annotation
When Luke is caught for stealing a car, his classmates stole, he is faced with jail time. He gets a break when he is offered a lighter sentence; he has to help the girl he saved during the crime, train for a marathon.
* Information about the author
Coleman is a British author who writes young adult novels and children’s books. He lives in the London Borough of Newham. He has written approximately hundred books in his career.
* Genre
Teen Fiction; Issues, Crime, Visually-Impaired
* Curriculum Ties, if any
English:
This is a great story; students can learn a lot from the character of Luke and the ability to turn one’s life around.
* Booktalking Ideas
1) Talk about the change in Luke’s self confidence from the beginning to the end of the book; how was he different?
2) How was Jodi affected by her time spent with Luke?
3) Discuss the code among thieves that was mentioned in the book.
* Reading Level/Interest Age
Grade 8 and Up / 14-18 year olds
* Challenge Issues and Defense
Challenge Issues: Violence and Crime.
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/Run-Michael-Coleman/dp/0525473181/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1260320136&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 included this book because I like the idea of a character redeeming himself and gaining self-confidence at the same time. Jodi helped Luke become a better person and Luke helped her train for her marathon. They both supplied a friend for one another and that is important as well. I think this is a great book that can be used to teach teens about change and how if you do not like where you are going in life, it is never too late to change it.
Coleman, M. On the Run. Penguin, 2003. ISBN: 9780525473183
* Plot Summary
15-year-old Luke is no stranger to the justice system so it makes sense when he gets picked up at the scene of an auto theft. He was not the one who stole the car but he would have, had two thugs not pushed him out of the way at the last moment before taking off with the car. Luke is being charged with trying to get into the car during the crime and for attempting to steal the running shoes of the man who owned the car. Luke does not seem worried about his fate; he just knows he does not want to be locked up. He gets a second chance when the family who lost their car asks the magistrates to consider giving him community service; working with the vision impaired. Luke is told to help Jodi, the family’s blind daughter, train for a marathon. The book follows Luke as he matures and starts to gain confidence in himself through his work with Jodi.
* Critical Evaluation
Luke is a typical youth offender in the beginning of this story; continuing on the same path of self-destruction until he gets caught. A fantastic story of how a person can change when given a chance or a reason to. This would be a great book for teens that are stuck in a similar situation. Coleman created a character that starts out a criminal and becomes a person readers care about. Teens can turn their life around like Luke did by volunteering or helping others. The British terms were hard to understand at times but for the most part the surrounding dialogue helped clear up any confusion.
* Reader’s Annotation
When Luke is caught for stealing a car, his classmates stole, he is faced with jail time. He gets a break when he is offered a lighter sentence; he has to help the girl he saved during the crime, train for a marathon.
* Information about the author
Coleman is a British author who writes young adult novels and children’s books. He lives in the London Borough of Newham. He has written approximately hundred books in his career.
* Genre
Teen Fiction; Issues, Crime, Visually-Impaired
* Curriculum Ties, if any
English:
This is a great story; students can learn a lot from the character of Luke and the ability to turn one’s life around.
* Booktalking Ideas
1) Talk about the change in Luke’s self confidence from the beginning to the end of the book; how was he different?
2) How was Jodi affected by her time spent with Luke?
3) Discuss the code among thieves that was mentioned in the book.
* Reading Level/Interest Age
Grade 8 and Up / 14-18 year olds
* Challenge Issues and Defense
Challenge Issues: Violence and Crime.
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/Run-Michael-Coleman/dp/0525473181/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1260320136&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 included this book because I like the idea of a character redeeming himself and gaining self-confidence at the same time. Jodi helped Luke become a better person and Luke helped her train for her marathon. They both supplied a friend for one another and that is important as well. I think this is a great book that can be used to teach teens about change and how if you do not like where you are going in life, it is never too late to change it.
Fat Kid Rules the World
* Bibliographic information
Going, K. L. Fat Kid Rules the World. G. P. Putnam’s Sons, 2003. ISBN: 9780399239908
- Booklist Editors' Choice - Books for Youth - Older Readers Category: 2003
- Michael L. Printz Honor Books: 2004
- YALSA Best Books for Young Adults: 2004
- School Library Journal Best Books: 2003
* Plot Summary
300 pound 17-year-old, Troy is contemplating suicide when he meets Curt, a homeless teenager and rock and roll legend at Troy’s high school. After having lunch at a diner, Curt decides he and Troy are going to start a band and Troy will be the drummer. Troy is panicked because he has not played since seventh grade. Troy follows Curt’s plan to start a band because he wants a real friend and to do something “cool”. Troy sees himself as the “fat kid” and often refers to things he does in a newspaper headline form; “EXULTENT FAT KID REJOICES”. Curt shows signs of being a drug addict and Troy’s father tries to warn him to be careful because of this but Troy does not want to see it.
* Critical Evaluation
The character is extremely relatable for overweight teens who feel like complete outcasts. Troy’s point of view, although sad at times is hilarious. His “Fat Kid” headlines add an extra comedic aspect to the story that will make all readers smile. Every overweight teen is like Troy, aware of how much they are sweating, how they look to others, and how loud they are breathing. There is quite a bit of profanity in the book but teens use profanity often when adults are not around, so it is realistic. The character development of Troy is amazing to watch. Readers cheer for Troy as he gains confidence and decides to really be a drummer; to take it seriously and practice all the time. A great book that shows no matter how low you think you have sunk, things can always get better and sometimes it takes a skinny homeless teenager to make it happen.
* Reader’s Annotation
Curt stops Troy from killing himself on the subway, and Troy buys him lunch. Curt decides they need to start a punk band and Troy agrees to this plan because he wants a friend and a more interesting life but Troy may end up being the friend Curt needs.
* Information about the author
Going was born in New York and is also living there now. Before writing full time she took jobs as an “adult literacy tutor, a ticket agent for an airline, a front desk clerk at a resort hotel, as an assistant to two agents at a Manhattan Literary agency, and a manager of an independent bookstore”. She is married with a baby and a step-daughter. She says she has always written but had not planned to be a writer; she originally wanted to be in the Peace Corp. She has written many successful kid’s and young adult books, including the popular Saint Iggy. Check out the author’s site for more information on her or her books, http://www.klgoing.com/.
* Genre
Teen Fiction; Issues, Self-Esteem, Weight Issues
* Curriculum Ties, if any
N/A
* Booktalking Ideas
1) In the beginning of the book, Troy does not have much of a relationship with his family, how does that change throughout the book?
2) Troy’s mother died from cancer when he was younger, what effect has that had on Troy, physically and mentally?
3) Troy’s brother and father know Curt is an addict but Troy does not see it. What are some of the signs he is?
4) In what ways do Curt and Troy help each other?
* Reading Level/Interest Age
Grade 9 and Up / 14 and Up
* Challenge Issues and Defense
Challenge Issues: Profanity, Drugs and Drug Addiction.
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/gp/product/product-description/0061214779/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?
I am including this book in my selection because I have never read a book told through an obese teenager and I feel like this book is a great way for people to get a glimpse into the life of an obese young adult. Through Troy’s thoughts, readers get an honest portrayal of the physical and mental discomfort teens, like him, face every day. Being overweight myself I read Troy’s thoughts where he thinks people are always watching and judging him and I think how ridiculous this sounds yet I do the same thing when I go out in public. I think this is a great book for teens that are overweight with low self-esteem. Overweight teens need to know there are others out there in their position and that there are people out there like Curt and Ollie who do not care how much a person weighs only that they are a good person.
Going, K. L. Fat Kid Rules the World. G. P. Putnam’s Sons, 2003. ISBN: 9780399239908
- Booklist Editors' Choice - Books for Youth - Older Readers Category: 2003
- Michael L. Printz Honor Books: 2004
- YALSA Best Books for Young Adults: 2004
- School Library Journal Best Books: 2003
* Plot Summary
300 pound 17-year-old, Troy is contemplating suicide when he meets Curt, a homeless teenager and rock and roll legend at Troy’s high school. After having lunch at a diner, Curt decides he and Troy are going to start a band and Troy will be the drummer. Troy is panicked because he has not played since seventh grade. Troy follows Curt’s plan to start a band because he wants a real friend and to do something “cool”. Troy sees himself as the “fat kid” and often refers to things he does in a newspaper headline form; “EXULTENT FAT KID REJOICES”. Curt shows signs of being a drug addict and Troy’s father tries to warn him to be careful because of this but Troy does not want to see it.
* Critical Evaluation
The character is extremely relatable for overweight teens who feel like complete outcasts. Troy’s point of view, although sad at times is hilarious. His “Fat Kid” headlines add an extra comedic aspect to the story that will make all readers smile. Every overweight teen is like Troy, aware of how much they are sweating, how they look to others, and how loud they are breathing. There is quite a bit of profanity in the book but teens use profanity often when adults are not around, so it is realistic. The character development of Troy is amazing to watch. Readers cheer for Troy as he gains confidence and decides to really be a drummer; to take it seriously and practice all the time. A great book that shows no matter how low you think you have sunk, things can always get better and sometimes it takes a skinny homeless teenager to make it happen.
* Reader’s Annotation
Curt stops Troy from killing himself on the subway, and Troy buys him lunch. Curt decides they need to start a punk band and Troy agrees to this plan because he wants a friend and a more interesting life but Troy may end up being the friend Curt needs.
* Information about the author
Going was born in New York and is also living there now. Before writing full time she took jobs as an “adult literacy tutor, a ticket agent for an airline, a front desk clerk at a resort hotel, as an assistant to two agents at a Manhattan Literary agency, and a manager of an independent bookstore”. She is married with a baby and a step-daughter. She says she has always written but had not planned to be a writer; she originally wanted to be in the Peace Corp. She has written many successful kid’s and young adult books, including the popular Saint Iggy. Check out the author’s site for more information on her or her books, http://www.klgoing.com/.
* Genre
Teen Fiction; Issues, Self-Esteem, Weight Issues
* Curriculum Ties, if any
N/A
* Booktalking Ideas
1) In the beginning of the book, Troy does not have much of a relationship with his family, how does that change throughout the book?
2) Troy’s mother died from cancer when he was younger, what effect has that had on Troy, physically and mentally?
3) Troy’s brother and father know Curt is an addict but Troy does not see it. What are some of the signs he is?
4) In what ways do Curt and Troy help each other?
* Reading Level/Interest Age
Grade 9 and Up / 14 and Up
* Challenge Issues and Defense
Challenge Issues: Profanity, Drugs and Drug Addiction.
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/gp/product/product-description/0061214779/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?
I am including this book in my selection because I have never read a book told through an obese teenager and I feel like this book is a great way for people to get a glimpse into the life of an obese young adult. Through Troy’s thoughts, readers get an honest portrayal of the physical and mental discomfort teens, like him, face every day. Being overweight myself I read Troy’s thoughts where he thinks people are always watching and judging him and I think how ridiculous this sounds yet I do the same thing when I go out in public. I think this is a great book for teens that are overweight with low self-esteem. Overweight teens need to know there are others out there in their position and that there are people out there like Curt and Ollie who do not care how much a person weighs only that they are a good person.
Deconstructing Dylan
* Bibliographic information
Choice, L. Deconstructing Dylan. Canada: Boardwalk Books, 2006. ISBN: 9781550026030
* Plot Summary
Dylan’s girlfriend just broke up with him because he is “too freaking weird”. Dylan knows this. He has always known he was different from other teens, and other humans; he just does not know why. Dylan has dreams that feel like memories from a time before he was born. Sometimes he has daydreams or moments when he is awake where he feels immense pain then a feeling of drifting away from himself. When he meets Robyn, Dylan feels like he has met his soul mate. Robyn is very interested in death, like him and she stands out from other teens; they both feel like they do not fit in. When Dylan sees a strange photograph of himself, from before he was born, he starts to wonder if his parents are keeping something from him. Robyn and Dylan investigate his parents and find a secret about him. With the knowledge of his controversial beginning, Dylan does not know if she should tell the world his secret or hide it away so no one will ever know.
* Critical Evaluation
Most young adult books cover the issue of not fitting in because most teens do not feel like they have a place among the crowds in high school. This book is different because not only does he feel like he does not fit in, but Dylan really does not, not with the whole human race. His very existence is so controversial that people may try to kill him if they knew what he was. The story and plot are great but a bit predictable. From the first dream where his parents are younger and it appears he is alive during a time when he should not have been born yet; it is obvious what he is. However, teens will still like it because the story does a great job of conveying how many teens feel in high school. Not fitting in and being teased for it can be very traumatic for from and can even end the way it did for Carla, with suicide. A great story of learning to live life when you feel different from everyone in that life, told with a nice science fiction twist.
* Reader’s Annotation
Dylan loves to read about insects, the Loch Ness Monster, and death but that is not what makes him different from other boys his age. There is a dark secret his parents’ have kept from him and he feels it just below the surface, waiting to be discovered.
* Information about the author
Choyce is a well known Canadian author, his other young adult novels have won many important awards. He was born in New Jersey but not lives in Nova Scotia as a Canadian citizen and writes fiction, non-fiction and poetry. I addition to writing, he says on his website, he is a teacher, musician, surfer and activist. “He's worked as a rehab counselor, a freight hauler, a corn farmer, a janitor, a journalist, a lead guitarist, a newspaper boy and a well-digger” http://www.lesleychoyce.com/.
* Genre
Teen Fiction; Science Fiction, Issues
* Curriculum Ties, if any
Science:
With so many new technologies being developed, human cloning is not a thing of the past but a controversial issue of today. This would be a great book for teaching students about science of today.
English:
This book could also be used for learning about character development. In the beginning of the book, Dylan is very unsure of himself and much like Charlie in The Perks of Being a Wallflower. By the end of the book he has discovered who he is and has gained confidence along the way allowing himself to decide what kind of person he wants to be.
* Booktalking Ideas
1) At the end of the book Dylan says he will tell everyone his secret first so the boy, Graham will know what to expect from people. How do you think people will react and how will Dylan’s life change?
2) Discuss the issues of prejudice in the book. The book takes place in the near future yet there is still homophobia and racism.
3) Why do you think Robyn was acting so strange the morning after she told Dylan “I think I love you”?
4) Carla’s life ended so tragically. Talk about other, positive ways she could have handled her situation.
* Reading Level/Interest Age
Grade 9 and Up / 14 and Up
* Challenge Issues and Defense
Challenge Issues: Sex, Drugs, Human Science Experiments, Cloning and Suicide.
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; http://www.amazon.com/Deconstructing-Dylan-Lesley-Choyce/dp/1550026038/ref=dp_return_2?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 chose this book by wandering through the young adult section at the library, grabbing books and reading the back covers. I thought this book sounded really interesting. I like how the story still deals with normal teen issues such as not fitting and feeling isolated but then adds science fiction to peak readers’ interest. I wanted to include this book because it conveys a good message. No matter how much you feel you do not fit in, there are others out there who feel the same and just because you are different from others does not make you inhuman or wrong for being that way.
Choice, L. Deconstructing Dylan. Canada: Boardwalk Books, 2006. ISBN: 9781550026030
* Plot Summary
Dylan’s girlfriend just broke up with him because he is “too freaking weird”. Dylan knows this. He has always known he was different from other teens, and other humans; he just does not know why. Dylan has dreams that feel like memories from a time before he was born. Sometimes he has daydreams or moments when he is awake where he feels immense pain then a feeling of drifting away from himself. When he meets Robyn, Dylan feels like he has met his soul mate. Robyn is very interested in death, like him and she stands out from other teens; they both feel like they do not fit in. When Dylan sees a strange photograph of himself, from before he was born, he starts to wonder if his parents are keeping something from him. Robyn and Dylan investigate his parents and find a secret about him. With the knowledge of his controversial beginning, Dylan does not know if she should tell the world his secret or hide it away so no one will ever know.
* Critical Evaluation
Most young adult books cover the issue of not fitting in because most teens do not feel like they have a place among the crowds in high school. This book is different because not only does he feel like he does not fit in, but Dylan really does not, not with the whole human race. His very existence is so controversial that people may try to kill him if they knew what he was. The story and plot are great but a bit predictable. From the first dream where his parents are younger and it appears he is alive during a time when he should not have been born yet; it is obvious what he is. However, teens will still like it because the story does a great job of conveying how many teens feel in high school. Not fitting in and being teased for it can be very traumatic for from and can even end the way it did for Carla, with suicide. A great story of learning to live life when you feel different from everyone in that life, told with a nice science fiction twist.
* Reader’s Annotation
Dylan loves to read about insects, the Loch Ness Monster, and death but that is not what makes him different from other boys his age. There is a dark secret his parents’ have kept from him and he feels it just below the surface, waiting to be discovered.
* Information about the author
Choyce is a well known Canadian author, his other young adult novels have won many important awards. He was born in New Jersey but not lives in Nova Scotia as a Canadian citizen and writes fiction, non-fiction and poetry. I addition to writing, he says on his website, he is a teacher, musician, surfer and activist. “He's worked as a rehab counselor, a freight hauler, a corn farmer, a janitor, a journalist, a lead guitarist, a newspaper boy and a well-digger” http://www.lesleychoyce.com/.
* Genre
Teen Fiction; Science Fiction, Issues
* Curriculum Ties, if any
Science:
With so many new technologies being developed, human cloning is not a thing of the past but a controversial issue of today. This would be a great book for teaching students about science of today.
English:
This book could also be used for learning about character development. In the beginning of the book, Dylan is very unsure of himself and much like Charlie in The Perks of Being a Wallflower. By the end of the book he has discovered who he is and has gained confidence along the way allowing himself to decide what kind of person he wants to be.
* Booktalking Ideas
1) At the end of the book Dylan says he will tell everyone his secret first so the boy, Graham will know what to expect from people. How do you think people will react and how will Dylan’s life change?
2) Discuss the issues of prejudice in the book. The book takes place in the near future yet there is still homophobia and racism.
3) Why do you think Robyn was acting so strange the morning after she told Dylan “I think I love you”?
4) Carla’s life ended so tragically. Talk about other, positive ways she could have handled her situation.
* Reading Level/Interest Age
Grade 9 and Up / 14 and Up
* Challenge Issues and Defense
Challenge Issues: Sex, Drugs, Human Science Experiments, Cloning and Suicide.
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; http://www.amazon.com/Deconstructing-Dylan-Lesley-Choyce/dp/1550026038/ref=dp_return_2?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 chose this book by wandering through the young adult section at the library, grabbing books and reading the back covers. I thought this book sounded really interesting. I like how the story still deals with normal teen issues such as not fitting and feeling isolated but then adds science fiction to peak readers’ interest. I wanted to include this book because it conveys a good message. No matter how much you feel you do not fit in, there are others out there who feel the same and just because you are different from others does not make you inhuman or wrong for being that way.
Prom
* Bibliographic information
Anderson, L. H. Prom. Puffin, 2006. ISBN: 9780142405703
* Plot Summary
Ashley is a self-professed “normal kid,” she goes to school because she is supposed to but does not intend to go to college. She is constantly getting detentions; she works at a kid themed pizza place and dates a high school dropout who she plans to move out with. She hates being at home with her parents and her numerous family members so her, and her boyfriend, agree to get an apartment together after she graduates. Ashley is not excited about prom either, but she worries when she sees how miserable her friends are at the announcement prom may be cancelled because a teacher stole all the prom money. Before she knows it she has agreed to help save the prom. Ashley, because of her bond with her friends, saves the dance for everyone with little time to spare. Ashley tells this high school tale with sarcasm and honest witty humor.
* Critical Evaluation
The character of Ashley gives a great telling of life in a high school that is not exactly upscale, but “much better than it used to be”. She does not seem to be excited about anything in her life except her friend Nat, so when Nat needs her Ashley steps up and saves prom. A funny take on high school life that is sure to make teens laugh. Ashley is a no-nonsense character who says things like they are. By the end of the story, the reader gets to see Ashley develop some pride in what she had done with the prom and she starts to care more about the rest of her life. The supporting characters are exaggerated which makes for some interesting humor, especially from her pregnant mom, loser boyfriend, and best friend Nat. Teens will definitely enjoy this comedic story of the reluctant teen saving prom between going to detention and making out with her boyfriend.
* Reader’s Annotation
Ashley is a “normal kid” who goes to school, loves her friends, and thinks her future starts upon high school graduation. When a teacher steals the prom funding she finds herself concerned with the present; her friend Nat and the upcoming prom.
* 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; Comedy, High School Issues
* Curriculum Ties, if any
N/A
* Booktalking Ideas
1) Ashley seems like such a smart girl, why do you think she has blinders on when it comes to her boyfriend and the life she is planning with him right after high school?
2) Talk about the relationship between Nat and Ashley and the strength of their bond.
3) Discuss the change that takes place between Ashley and her family; how does her view of them change?
* Reading Level/Interest Age
Grade 8 and Up / 14-18 year olds
* Challenge Issues and Defense
Challenge Issues: Profanity and General References to Sex.
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/Prom-Laurie-Halse-Anderson/dp/0142405701/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1260293986&sr=1-1#noop.
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 selection because it is about high school and prom; the usual teen interests. I like Ashley’s point of view, she uses smart humor to explain her friends, the high school, her family, and her boyfriend. I hope teen girls read this book and see that even smart girls like Ashley can end up with guys who are not good enough for them and realize they should not settle for guys like TJ. I also appreciate the strong friendship bond that drives the “save the prom” plot. Too many books display unhealthy friendships between teen girls where they are stabbing each other in the back or ignoring each other altogether because one got more popular than the other. It is refreshing to see a genuine friendship between two young women; teens need to know this is possible and should be the norm.
Anderson, L. H. Prom. Puffin, 2006. ISBN: 9780142405703
* Plot Summary
Ashley is a self-professed “normal kid,” she goes to school because she is supposed to but does not intend to go to college. She is constantly getting detentions; she works at a kid themed pizza place and dates a high school dropout who she plans to move out with. She hates being at home with her parents and her numerous family members so her, and her boyfriend, agree to get an apartment together after she graduates. Ashley is not excited about prom either, but she worries when she sees how miserable her friends are at the announcement prom may be cancelled because a teacher stole all the prom money. Before she knows it she has agreed to help save the prom. Ashley, because of her bond with her friends, saves the dance for everyone with little time to spare. Ashley tells this high school tale with sarcasm and honest witty humor.
* Critical Evaluation
The character of Ashley gives a great telling of life in a high school that is not exactly upscale, but “much better than it used to be”. She does not seem to be excited about anything in her life except her friend Nat, so when Nat needs her Ashley steps up and saves prom. A funny take on high school life that is sure to make teens laugh. Ashley is a no-nonsense character who says things like they are. By the end of the story, the reader gets to see Ashley develop some pride in what she had done with the prom and she starts to care more about the rest of her life. The supporting characters are exaggerated which makes for some interesting humor, especially from her pregnant mom, loser boyfriend, and best friend Nat. Teens will definitely enjoy this comedic story of the reluctant teen saving prom between going to detention and making out with her boyfriend.
* Reader’s Annotation
Ashley is a “normal kid” who goes to school, loves her friends, and thinks her future starts upon high school graduation. When a teacher steals the prom funding she finds herself concerned with the present; her friend Nat and the upcoming prom.
* 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; Comedy, High School Issues
* Curriculum Ties, if any
N/A
* Booktalking Ideas
1) Ashley seems like such a smart girl, why do you think she has blinders on when it comes to her boyfriend and the life she is planning with him right after high school?
2) Talk about the relationship between Nat and Ashley and the strength of their bond.
3) Discuss the change that takes place between Ashley and her family; how does her view of them change?
* Reading Level/Interest Age
Grade 8 and Up / 14-18 year olds
* Challenge Issues and Defense
Challenge Issues: Profanity and General References to Sex.
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/Prom-Laurie-Halse-Anderson/dp/0142405701/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1260293986&sr=1-1#noop.
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 selection because it is about high school and prom; the usual teen interests. I like Ashley’s point of view, she uses smart humor to explain her friends, the high school, her family, and her boyfriend. I hope teen girls read this book and see that even smart girls like Ashley can end up with guys who are not good enough for them and realize they should not settle for guys like TJ. I also appreciate the strong friendship bond that drives the “save the prom” plot. Too many books display unhealthy friendships between teen girls where they are stabbing each other in the back or ignoring each other altogether because one got more popular than the other. It is refreshing to see a genuine friendship between two young women; teens need to know this is possible and should be the norm.
The Host
* Bibliographic information
Meyer, S. The Host. Little, Brown and Company, 2008. ISBN: 9780316068048 (Adult-Teen Crossover Book)
- Booklist Editors' Choice - Adult Fiction for Young Adults: 2008
- YALSA Best Books for Young Adults: 2009
* Plot Summary
Earth has been taken over by small parasite type aliens called Souls. They are put into human bodies, or host bodies in order to stay alive. They are peaceful beings who think they are helping us because they saw humans killing and victimizing each other. There are those humans like Melanie Stryder who still live on the outskirts of civilization hiding from the Souls. When she is captured and a Soul called Wanderer is placed inside they are both confused to find Melanie still there. There are those like Melanie who fight back and will not be erased to matter how hard to Soul tries, but they are rare and never talked about among the aliens. Through Melanie’s memories of her brother and her lover, Jared, Wanderer starts to feel for them as Melanie does and wants to find them and be with them. Wanderer and Melanie set out to find them. They find them with a group of other “wild” humans and get mixed reactions when Melanie’s Uncle
Jeb allows them to enter the sanctuary for humans. Melanie and Wanderer are both in love with Jared but all he sees when he looks at them is an alien who has killed the woman he loves and is living in her body. Melanie wants to tell people she is there, but Wanderer fears they will not believe her and will kill her for lying and trying to trick them. The two also worry that the Seeker who is trying to find them will succeed and capture everyone they now love.
* Critical Evaluation
The love triangle, or square in this case, storyline is similar to the Twilight saga and fans, both adults and teens will love this one as well. Meyer always creates an intensity with her characters that holds a reader’s attention and refuses to let them go. Although the book is released as an adult novel is can easily be read by teens; it makes a great crossover book. The science fiction aspect of the book is fascinating and makes the story special. The interactions between Wanderer and Melanie are great; the reader gets to see a growing relationship between two beings occupying the same space that are also in love with the same man. This is a new take on the familiar story of a love triangle; having two people inside of one.
* Reader’s Annotation
What do you do when your planet has been taken over by alien beings and one has just been put into your body so it can be used as a host body? If you are Melanie Stryder, you fight back.
* Information about the author
Meyer lives in Arizona with her husband and three sons. She has a degree in English literature from Brigham Young University. She was a stay at home mother until she had a dream about the character of Edward and wrote her first novel, Twilight in 2005. To find out more about Stephenie Meyer, check out her website, http://www.stepheniemeyer.com/index.html.
* Genre
Adult Fiction; Science Fiction
* Curriculum Ties, if any
N/A
* Booktalking Ideas
1) Discuss the way Uncle Jeb treats Wanderer from the beginning. Why do you think he is so quick to trust her and befriend her unlike everyone else?
2) Talk about the Seeker who seems to be obsessed with finding Wanderer and why she cannot give up her search.
3) Before Wanderer comes, the ‘wild” humans experiment on Souls and host bodies they find, trying to remove the Soul and save the host. What are your feelings on this?
* Reading Level/Interest Age
Grade 11 and Up / 17 and Up
* Challenge Issues and Defense
N/A
* Why did you include this book in your titles you selected?
I selected this book because I do think it is important to include adult-teen crossover books because many teens do enjoy books written for adults. This book was part of the YALSA Best Books for Young Adults: 2009 and School Library Journal reviewed this book as an Adult/ High School level book, http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/product-description/0316068047/ref=dp_proddesc_0?ie=UTF8&n=283155&s=books. I would have considered this a crossover book on my own but it is good to know the professionals back up my opinion. I got hooked on this book as I did with the books in the Twilight Saga and read it in one day. I really enjoy the writing of Stephenie Meyer because I feel books should make you want ot keep reading and hers do that with a force I have never experienced with other books. I think teens will enjoy this book and older teens will have no trouble following along; I think it belongs in this collection.
Meyer, S. The Host. Little, Brown and Company, 2008. ISBN: 9780316068048 (Adult-Teen Crossover Book)
- Booklist Editors' Choice - Adult Fiction for Young Adults: 2008
- YALSA Best Books for Young Adults: 2009
* Plot Summary
Earth has been taken over by small parasite type aliens called Souls. They are put into human bodies, or host bodies in order to stay alive. They are peaceful beings who think they are helping us because they saw humans killing and victimizing each other. There are those humans like Melanie Stryder who still live on the outskirts of civilization hiding from the Souls. When she is captured and a Soul called Wanderer is placed inside they are both confused to find Melanie still there. There are those like Melanie who fight back and will not be erased to matter how hard to Soul tries, but they are rare and never talked about among the aliens. Through Melanie’s memories of her brother and her lover, Jared, Wanderer starts to feel for them as Melanie does and wants to find them and be with them. Wanderer and Melanie set out to find them. They find them with a group of other “wild” humans and get mixed reactions when Melanie’s Uncle
Jeb allows them to enter the sanctuary for humans. Melanie and Wanderer are both in love with Jared but all he sees when he looks at them is an alien who has killed the woman he loves and is living in her body. Melanie wants to tell people she is there, but Wanderer fears they will not believe her and will kill her for lying and trying to trick them. The two also worry that the Seeker who is trying to find them will succeed and capture everyone they now love.
* Critical Evaluation
The love triangle, or square in this case, storyline is similar to the Twilight saga and fans, both adults and teens will love this one as well. Meyer always creates an intensity with her characters that holds a reader’s attention and refuses to let them go. Although the book is released as an adult novel is can easily be read by teens; it makes a great crossover book. The science fiction aspect of the book is fascinating and makes the story special. The interactions between Wanderer and Melanie are great; the reader gets to see a growing relationship between two beings occupying the same space that are also in love with the same man. This is a new take on the familiar story of a love triangle; having two people inside of one.
* Reader’s Annotation
What do you do when your planet has been taken over by alien beings and one has just been put into your body so it can be used as a host body? If you are Melanie Stryder, you fight back.
* Information about the author
Meyer lives in Arizona with her husband and three sons. She has a degree in English literature from Brigham Young University. She was a stay at home mother until she had a dream about the character of Edward and wrote her first novel, Twilight in 2005. To find out more about Stephenie Meyer, check out her website, http://www.stepheniemeyer.com/index.html.
* Genre
Adult Fiction; Science Fiction
* Curriculum Ties, if any
N/A
* Booktalking Ideas
1) Discuss the way Uncle Jeb treats Wanderer from the beginning. Why do you think he is so quick to trust her and befriend her unlike everyone else?
2) Talk about the Seeker who seems to be obsessed with finding Wanderer and why she cannot give up her search.
3) Before Wanderer comes, the ‘wild” humans experiment on Souls and host bodies they find, trying to remove the Soul and save the host. What are your feelings on this?
* Reading Level/Interest Age
Grade 11 and Up / 17 and Up
* Challenge Issues and Defense
N/A
* Why did you include this book in your titles you selected?
I selected this book because I do think it is important to include adult-teen crossover books because many teens do enjoy books written for adults. This book was part of the YALSA Best Books for Young Adults: 2009 and School Library Journal reviewed this book as an Adult/ High School level book, http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/product-description/0316068047/ref=dp_proddesc_0?ie=UTF8&n=283155&s=books. I would have considered this a crossover book on my own but it is good to know the professionals back up my opinion. I got hooked on this book as I did with the books in the Twilight Saga and read it in one day. I really enjoy the writing of Stephenie Meyer because I feel books should make you want ot keep reading and hers do that with a force I have never experienced with other books. I think teens will enjoy this book and older teens will have no trouble following along; I think it belongs in this collection.
The Last Unicorn
* Bibliographic information
Beagle, P. S. The Last Unicorn. Viking Press, 1968. ISBN: 9780760783740
* Plot Summary
This is the story of the last unicorn. The rest of the unicorns have vanished and she decides to leave the safety of her home to find them. On her journey men try to capture her only seeing her as a white mare which confuses and angers her. A butterfly follows her for a while speaking nonsense until she starts to say goodbye and he, in a moment of lucidity, calls her by her name, “unicorn”. She asks if he has seen any of her kind in his travels and he says the Red Bull has them but she must be brave in order to find them. Later she is captured as she sleeps by Mommy Fortuna to be used in her carnival. Mommy Fortuna puts a spell on ordinary animals so her patrons will see magical creatures; she has to put a spell on the unicorn to make people see a unicorn. Schmendrick the Magician wants to leave the carnival and vows to free her from her cage. The unicorn learns that the Red Bull is linked to King Haggard and they begin their journey towards his castle. They pick up another traveling companion along the way; Molly Grue who sees the unicorn for what she is and wants to help her. The three set off for Haggard’s realm and Schmendrick must take drastic measures to keep the Red Bull from capturing the last unicorn and the only hope for her kind.
* Critical Evaluation
For anybody who has ever wished unicorns were real this is a wonderful story they will cherish forever. The writing is truly beautiful and the characters are multi-dimensional. The unicorn is the main character; she has many human traits to her personality but she is mystical at the same time. The story takes on a completely different tone when the unicorn is turned into Lady Amalthea and she is forced to exist in a body that is no longer immortal. Many readers will cry for the unicorn because she is such a magical creature and to put her in such a normal body crushes her spirit. This story is from the 1960s but it has lived on because of the animated version which is very similar to the book. This is an ageless tale that will continue to be popular for years to come because of the beauty and strength it possesses.
* Reader’s Annotation
The last unicorn just discovered she is the only one left of her kind so she takes off on a journey to find the truth of what happened to them. She will have to make sacrifices and be brave if she wants to save her kind from extinction.
* Information about the author
Beagle grew up in the Bronx; he writes fiction, non-fiction, lyrics, poetry, songs, teleplays and screenplays; including the animated version of The Last Unicorn. He has written three highly praised fantasy novels, including The Last Unicorn; he is acknowledged as America’s greatest living fantasy author. To learn more about this author go to his website, www.peaterbeagle.com.
* Genre
Teen Fiction/Fiction; Fantasy
* Curriculum Ties, if any
N/A
* Booktalking Ideas
1) Why did Schmendrick decide to leave the carnival and free the unicorn?
2) Talk about Molly Grue’s character. Why does she feel the unicorn failed her in her youth? What reasons may she have wanted the unicorn to be there for her?
3) Discuss the character of the unicorn and how she changed when she became the Lady Amalthea.
* Reading Level/Interest Age
Twelfth grade and up/ 18 and up
* Challenge Issues and Defense
N/A
* Why did you include this book in your titles you selected?
This book is listed as YA literature at my local library but other sources I checked treated it as adult fiction. I believe if this book is not a young adult book then it is a crossover book. It is popular among both groups. I selected this book for my collection because it is a great book that many people do not know about. Most people are familiar with the animated movie but have no idea it was based on a book. Of course the book has tons of fans already but there are still people out there who do not know about it. I think this book will be loved by teens today and in the future as long as someone tells them about it.
Beagle, P. S. The Last Unicorn. Viking Press, 1968. ISBN: 9780760783740
* Plot Summary
This is the story of the last unicorn. The rest of the unicorns have vanished and she decides to leave the safety of her home to find them. On her journey men try to capture her only seeing her as a white mare which confuses and angers her. A butterfly follows her for a while speaking nonsense until she starts to say goodbye and he, in a moment of lucidity, calls her by her name, “unicorn”. She asks if he has seen any of her kind in his travels and he says the Red Bull has them but she must be brave in order to find them. Later she is captured as she sleeps by Mommy Fortuna to be used in her carnival. Mommy Fortuna puts a spell on ordinary animals so her patrons will see magical creatures; she has to put a spell on the unicorn to make people see a unicorn. Schmendrick the Magician wants to leave the carnival and vows to free her from her cage. The unicorn learns that the Red Bull is linked to King Haggard and they begin their journey towards his castle. They pick up another traveling companion along the way; Molly Grue who sees the unicorn for what she is and wants to help her. The three set off for Haggard’s realm and Schmendrick must take drastic measures to keep the Red Bull from capturing the last unicorn and the only hope for her kind.
* Critical Evaluation
For anybody who has ever wished unicorns were real this is a wonderful story they will cherish forever. The writing is truly beautiful and the characters are multi-dimensional. The unicorn is the main character; she has many human traits to her personality but she is mystical at the same time. The story takes on a completely different tone when the unicorn is turned into Lady Amalthea and she is forced to exist in a body that is no longer immortal. Many readers will cry for the unicorn because she is such a magical creature and to put her in such a normal body crushes her spirit. This story is from the 1960s but it has lived on because of the animated version which is very similar to the book. This is an ageless tale that will continue to be popular for years to come because of the beauty and strength it possesses.
* Reader’s Annotation
The last unicorn just discovered she is the only one left of her kind so she takes off on a journey to find the truth of what happened to them. She will have to make sacrifices and be brave if she wants to save her kind from extinction.
* Information about the author
Beagle grew up in the Bronx; he writes fiction, non-fiction, lyrics, poetry, songs, teleplays and screenplays; including the animated version of The Last Unicorn. He has written three highly praised fantasy novels, including The Last Unicorn; he is acknowledged as America’s greatest living fantasy author. To learn more about this author go to his website, www.peaterbeagle.com.
* Genre
Teen Fiction/Fiction; Fantasy
* Curriculum Ties, if any
N/A
* Booktalking Ideas
1) Why did Schmendrick decide to leave the carnival and free the unicorn?
2) Talk about Molly Grue’s character. Why does she feel the unicorn failed her in her youth? What reasons may she have wanted the unicorn to be there for her?
3) Discuss the character of the unicorn and how she changed when she became the Lady Amalthea.
* Reading Level/Interest Age
Twelfth grade and up/ 18 and up
* Challenge Issues and Defense
N/A
* Why did you include this book in your titles you selected?
This book is listed as YA literature at my local library but other sources I checked treated it as adult fiction. I believe if this book is not a young adult book then it is a crossover book. It is popular among both groups. I selected this book for my collection because it is a great book that many people do not know about. Most people are familiar with the animated movie but have no idea it was based on a book. Of course the book has tons of fans already but there are still people out there who do not know about it. I think this book will be loved by teens today and in the future as long as someone tells them about it.
The Perks of Being a Wallflower
* Bibliographic information
Chbosky, S. The Perks of Being a Wallflower. Pocket Books, 1999. ISBN: 9780671027346
- YALSA Best Books for Young Adults: 2000
- YALSA Quick Picks for Reluctant Young Adult Readers: 2000
* Plot Summary
This story is told through a series of letters written by Charlie to someone referred to as “friend”. Charlie is different from most 15-year-old boys; he sees things and thinks about them instead of being a part of them. He struggles with a sadness he does not understand. Throughout the story he worries about everyone else and holds their needs above his own, especially those of his friends Patrick and Sam. His English teacher worries about him and encourages him to participate in life rather than stand back and watch. He is called a Wallflower by Patrick because Charlie is always watching everyone else and thinking about what they are doing and why they are doing it. This is a coming of age book told through the eyes of a boy who is extremely special; he sees the details in everything and everyone then writes about them in letters to his “friend,” who understands and listens.
* Critical Evaluation
This is an important book for the genre. The author allows the reader to see the character’s true thoughts laid out in his letters. The events that take place in Charlie’s first year of highs school are very realistic and his reactions to these events are wonderful to read. I appreciate the honesty in the writing; a true high school experience. Many teens suffer from sadness and depression, the way the author has it as a sort of background to the character’s story is very interesting. Like most teens, Charlie does not understand why he is sad only that he is and that he has trouble controlling it. There are many books told through a teenager’s point of view, but by having the story conveyed through letters, readers get a real understanding of Charlie’s loneliness. Many parents will consider the subject matter too mature for their teen but in reality these are the situations they will face and in some cases take part in. Every young adult must decide for themselves when to stay and when to go but the issues in this book are real and parents should be aware of these possibilities so they can talk about them with their teens. The author has created a great novel for discussion.
* Reader’s Annotation
Have you ever wanted a friend who would just listen and understand? Well Charlie has, and he is writing to his “friend” about everything he sees in his first year of high school.
* Information about the author
Chbosky was raised in Pittsburgh but now lives in New York. He graduated from the University of Southern California’s Filmic Writing Program. He is a novelist, screenwriter and director of both film and television. He wrote the screenplay for the movie Rent and was the editor for a collection of short stories called Pieces. The Perks of Being a Wallflower is his first, and only novel (I was unable to find any novels that followed).
* Genre
Teen Fiction; Issues, Mental and Behavioral
* Curriculum Ties, if any
N/A
This book was listed on ALA’s 2006 and 2008 lists of the 10 most frequently challenged books and has been banned from numerous schools.
* Booktalking Ideas
1) Who do you think is the “friend” that Charlie writes to?
2) Talk about reasons why the author may have chose to do this book in letter form and why he chose to make the friend an anonymous character.
3) The author writes about many sensitive topics in the book, why do you think he discussed the events with Charlie and his Aunt Helen in such an indirect way?
4) Discuss the reason for Charlies sadness. He says at the end that he does not blame it on what happened with the Aunt. What do you think is going on with him and why?
* Reading Level/Interest Age
Grade 9 and Up / 14 and Up
* Challenge Issues and Defense
Challenge Issues: Sex, Drugs, Under Age Drinking, Abuse, Molestation, Suicide, and Abortion.
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, http://www.amazon.com/Perks-Being-Wallflower-Stephen-Chbosky/dp/0671027344/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1260226087&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 have heard how great this book is for years. When we got the assignment I knew it was finally time to pick it up and read it. I have seen it praised in articles and discussion boards; two librarians have also recommended it to me. After reading it I knew it had to be included on this blog because it is essential in a collection of YA novels. This book is true to many students’ high school experience. The character is not like most YA novel characters and maybe even not like most teens but he is like many. His voice is important because it is a voice of so many teens struggling to get through high school, especially the first year. I really like the format of letters because the reader can feel as if they are part of the story; we can assume the role of his “friend”.
Chbosky, S. The Perks of Being a Wallflower. Pocket Books, 1999. ISBN: 9780671027346
- YALSA Best Books for Young Adults: 2000
- YALSA Quick Picks for Reluctant Young Adult Readers: 2000
* Plot Summary
This story is told through a series of letters written by Charlie to someone referred to as “friend”. Charlie is different from most 15-year-old boys; he sees things and thinks about them instead of being a part of them. He struggles with a sadness he does not understand. Throughout the story he worries about everyone else and holds their needs above his own, especially those of his friends Patrick and Sam. His English teacher worries about him and encourages him to participate in life rather than stand back and watch. He is called a Wallflower by Patrick because Charlie is always watching everyone else and thinking about what they are doing and why they are doing it. This is a coming of age book told through the eyes of a boy who is extremely special; he sees the details in everything and everyone then writes about them in letters to his “friend,” who understands and listens.
* Critical Evaluation
This is an important book for the genre. The author allows the reader to see the character’s true thoughts laid out in his letters. The events that take place in Charlie’s first year of highs school are very realistic and his reactions to these events are wonderful to read. I appreciate the honesty in the writing; a true high school experience. Many teens suffer from sadness and depression, the way the author has it as a sort of background to the character’s story is very interesting. Like most teens, Charlie does not understand why he is sad only that he is and that he has trouble controlling it. There are many books told through a teenager’s point of view, but by having the story conveyed through letters, readers get a real understanding of Charlie’s loneliness. Many parents will consider the subject matter too mature for their teen but in reality these are the situations they will face and in some cases take part in. Every young adult must decide for themselves when to stay and when to go but the issues in this book are real and parents should be aware of these possibilities so they can talk about them with their teens. The author has created a great novel for discussion.
* Reader’s Annotation
Have you ever wanted a friend who would just listen and understand? Well Charlie has, and he is writing to his “friend” about everything he sees in his first year of high school.
* Information about the author
Chbosky was raised in Pittsburgh but now lives in New York. He graduated from the University of Southern California’s Filmic Writing Program. He is a novelist, screenwriter and director of both film and television. He wrote the screenplay for the movie Rent and was the editor for a collection of short stories called Pieces. The Perks of Being a Wallflower is his first, and only novel (I was unable to find any novels that followed).
* Genre
Teen Fiction; Issues, Mental and Behavioral
* Curriculum Ties, if any
N/A
This book was listed on ALA’s 2006 and 2008 lists of the 10 most frequently challenged books and has been banned from numerous schools.
* Booktalking Ideas
1) Who do you think is the “friend” that Charlie writes to?
2) Talk about reasons why the author may have chose to do this book in letter form and why he chose to make the friend an anonymous character.
3) The author writes about many sensitive topics in the book, why do you think he discussed the events with Charlie and his Aunt Helen in such an indirect way?
4) Discuss the reason for Charlies sadness. He says at the end that he does not blame it on what happened with the Aunt. What do you think is going on with him and why?
* Reading Level/Interest Age
Grade 9 and Up / 14 and Up
* Challenge Issues and Defense
Challenge Issues: Sex, Drugs, Under Age Drinking, Abuse, Molestation, Suicide, and Abortion.
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, http://www.amazon.com/Perks-Being-Wallflower-Stephen-Chbosky/dp/0671027344/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1260226087&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 have heard how great this book is for years. When we got the assignment I knew it was finally time to pick it up and read it. I have seen it praised in articles and discussion boards; two librarians have also recommended it to me. After reading it I knew it had to be included on this blog because it is essential in a collection of YA novels. This book is true to many students’ high school experience. The character is not like most YA novel characters and maybe even not like most teens but he is like many. His voice is important because it is a voice of so many teens struggling to get through high school, especially the first year. I really like the format of letters because the reader can feel as if they are part of the story; we can assume the role of his “friend”.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Inexcusable
* Bibliographic information
Lynch, C. Inexcusable. Simon and Schuster, 2005. ISBN: 9780689847899
- School Library Journal Best Books: 2005
- YALSA Best Books for Young Adults: 2006
- Booklist Editors' Choice - Books for Youth - Older Readers Category: 2005
* Plot Summary
Keir is an all around good guy; a football player, friend, and son. Of course that is what Keir thinks, ask others and they may say differently. One of those people would be Gigi, the girl who is currently telling him he raped her. The book goes back and forth from this present scene with Gigi, to other scenes leading up to that moment. Keir is always seeing his own actions as amazing and fun while others see them as hurtful and violent. He got noticed for a scholarship when he made headlines for tackling a guy on the field and paralyzing him. When he crashed the soccer team’s party and harassed them until they were humiliated he saw it as good fun that everyone enjoyed. So it is not surprising when he is confused by Gigi’s accusations. Gigi finally gets him to see the truth and he sees himself and his actions for what they truly are; inexcusable.
* Critical Evaluation
This is an award winning book for a reason. Lynch really captures the essence of what is happening and forces the reader to analyze the situation. The character is so original. Typically books showcase the victim who is being preyed upon; not the predator. In this case, Keir exhibits some horrendous behavior, especially when he rapes Gigi and tries to rationalize it. Keir’s sisters are a voice of reason that he refuses to hear but no one else really stands up to him. Even Gigi defends his actions, up until he victimizes her. Keir’s actions are astonishing and it takes a brave writer to put it on paper. Lynch claims to like writing about violence in a realistic way and he has accomplished that task with this novel.
* Reader’s Annotation
Keir thinks he is a great guy and does not understand when people misinterpret his actions in a negative way. He is forced to see their side of things when he has an argument with his friend, Gigi who tells him he just raped her.
* Information about the author
Lynch is a highly acclaimed controversial writer of young adult books. He was born in Massachusetts but currently lives in Scotland. Lynch says he likes to write stories with male characters that have pain or violence in their lives. He says he likes to portray these things in a realistic way because it is more honest than just telling the reader it happened; this way they see how truly horrible violence is. His books have been challenged many times; he says it just makes him more determined to write.
* Genre
Teen Fiction; Mental and Behavioral Issues
* Curriculum Ties, if any
English:
If the book was not challenged, it could be used in a school to teach about perception and the differences between people.
* Booktalking Ideas
1) Why do you think it took Keir so long to see the truth of his actions?
2) What did you think of having the book told through the eyes of a rapist? How would it have been different if it had been told through third person point of view?
3) How much are alcohol and drugs to blame for Keir’s behavior?
4) Talk about Keir’s sisters. What is their role in the story, why are they important?
* Reading Level/Interest Age
Grade 9 and Up / 15-18 years old
* Challenge Issues and Defense
Challenge Issues: Rape, Violence, Crime, Drug Abuse, and Underage Drinking.
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/Inexcusable-Chris-Lynch/dp/1416939725/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1260326964&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 first selected this book because I had heard about it receiving quite a few rewards so I looked it up so I could see what it was about. I think the idea of having the book told through the eyes of a rapist who cannot see the error in his ways is very original. I recommend this book for older teens because it provides an interesting perspective on a story such as this. These types of stories are always told through the victim or in third person. I appreciate a new take on a common story.
Lynch, C. Inexcusable. Simon and Schuster, 2005. ISBN: 9780689847899
- School Library Journal Best Books: 2005
- YALSA Best Books for Young Adults: 2006
- Booklist Editors' Choice - Books for Youth - Older Readers Category: 2005
* Plot Summary
Keir is an all around good guy; a football player, friend, and son. Of course that is what Keir thinks, ask others and they may say differently. One of those people would be Gigi, the girl who is currently telling him he raped her. The book goes back and forth from this present scene with Gigi, to other scenes leading up to that moment. Keir is always seeing his own actions as amazing and fun while others see them as hurtful and violent. He got noticed for a scholarship when he made headlines for tackling a guy on the field and paralyzing him. When he crashed the soccer team’s party and harassed them until they were humiliated he saw it as good fun that everyone enjoyed. So it is not surprising when he is confused by Gigi’s accusations. Gigi finally gets him to see the truth and he sees himself and his actions for what they truly are; inexcusable.
* Critical Evaluation
This is an award winning book for a reason. Lynch really captures the essence of what is happening and forces the reader to analyze the situation. The character is so original. Typically books showcase the victim who is being preyed upon; not the predator. In this case, Keir exhibits some horrendous behavior, especially when he rapes Gigi and tries to rationalize it. Keir’s sisters are a voice of reason that he refuses to hear but no one else really stands up to him. Even Gigi defends his actions, up until he victimizes her. Keir’s actions are astonishing and it takes a brave writer to put it on paper. Lynch claims to like writing about violence in a realistic way and he has accomplished that task with this novel.
* Reader’s Annotation
Keir thinks he is a great guy and does not understand when people misinterpret his actions in a negative way. He is forced to see their side of things when he has an argument with his friend, Gigi who tells him he just raped her.
* Information about the author
Lynch is a highly acclaimed controversial writer of young adult books. He was born in Massachusetts but currently lives in Scotland. Lynch says he likes to write stories with male characters that have pain or violence in their lives. He says he likes to portray these things in a realistic way because it is more honest than just telling the reader it happened; this way they see how truly horrible violence is. His books have been challenged many times; he says it just makes him more determined to write.
* Genre
Teen Fiction; Mental and Behavioral Issues
* Curriculum Ties, if any
English:
If the book was not challenged, it could be used in a school to teach about perception and the differences between people.
* Booktalking Ideas
1) Why do you think it took Keir so long to see the truth of his actions?
2) What did you think of having the book told through the eyes of a rapist? How would it have been different if it had been told through third person point of view?
3) How much are alcohol and drugs to blame for Keir’s behavior?
4) Talk about Keir’s sisters. What is their role in the story, why are they important?
* Reading Level/Interest Age
Grade 9 and Up / 15-18 years old
* Challenge Issues and Defense
Challenge Issues: Rape, Violence, Crime, Drug Abuse, and Underage Drinking.
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/Inexcusable-Chris-Lynch/dp/1416939725/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1260326964&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 first selected this book because I had heard about it receiving quite a few rewards so I looked it up so I could see what it was about. I think the idea of having the book told through the eyes of a rapist who cannot see the error in his ways is very original. I recommend this book for older teens because it provides an interesting perspective on a story such as this. These types of stories are always told through the victim or in third person. I appreciate a new take on a common story.
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