The Golden Compass

The Golden Compass, by Philip Pullman, tells the story of Lyra Belacqua and her journey to find the truth.  When Lyra begins to suspect that some of her friends have been kidnapped, she begins her trek North to find the missing children.  What Lyra discovers is an orchestrated plan to separate children from their daemons .  Throughout Lyra's adventure, she meets armored bears, witches, and eventually finds the missing children.

If I were to use this book in the classroom, I would use it to further a lesson on science fiction literature.   I would have the class create their own fantasy stories and share with the class. 

The Golden Compass. ISBN: 0-440-41832-1. Philip Pullman. 1995. Carnegie Medal. Ages 13+. Science Fiction. Fantasy.

The Giver

The Giver, by Lois Lowry, tells the story of Jonas and his "structured" Community.  Jonas, age 12, lives in a community created in order to keep its residents safe.  Safe from feelings, experiences, emotions, and most importantly, safe from individuality.  As Jonas nears the Ceremony of Twelves, he wonders what "job" he will be selected for.  When he receives the assignment of Receiver, he is excited, but nervous.  The last Receiver did not finish her training, and elected to be released from the Community.
Jonas meets with the elder (The Giver) who will transmit past memories through hand to skin contact.  Through touch, Jonas will experience color, snow, love, and a plethora of experiences, some of them painful. 
However, Jonas soon realizes that he has been living without free will.  All his choices have been made for him by the Community.  Soon Jonas and the Giver develop a plan that will change Jonas and the Community forever.  Jonas will escape from the community.  His disappearance will lead to all his feelings being left to the community to feel.  Jonas' sacrifice of leaving his home, will in turn, give the community the power of feelings, and making their own choices.  A story of courage and conviction, The Giver envisions what our world would look like if power and control were absolute.

As a teacher I would use this text to further a discussion on power and control mechanisms.  To begin with I would ask a few questions like, "What are your rights of passage?" and "In what ways is Jonas' community similar to ours?"  These questions would be a good starting point to delve deeper into the issue of absolute control and what our world would be like if power got into the wrong hands.  We could then discuss communities and countries in our world that are similar to Jonas' community and what they look like and who they are run by.

The Giver. ISBN 978-0-440-23768-6. Lois Lowry. 1993. Newbery Medal. Age 12-18. Science Fiction.

Number the Stars

Synopsis:

Number the Stars, by Lois Lowry, is the story of ten-year-old Annemarie Johansen and her life growing up in Nazi occupied Copenhagen.  When the Johansen's discover that the Nazi's are "relocating" the Jews, their efforts with the Resistance progress to help some of the Jews escape to neutral Sweden.  Annemarie and her best friend Ellen, whom is Jewish, must both learn to be brave under the most atrocious circumstances. 

Idea for Lesson Plan:

As a teacher, I would use this book to teach about human decency.  As a class we would discuss the Holocaust, and read about other "less known" heroes during that time.  

 Critique:

Number the Stars is the story of Annemarie Johansen, a ten-year-old girl growing up in Nazi occupied Denmark as a Lutheran.  Annemarie is an inquisitive, comforting, brave young girl.  Lowry shows through dialogue and actions.  Throughout the book, Annemarie questions the motive of the Nazi’s and why they are in her country.  In a conversation with her father, Annemarie questions, “Papa, sometimes I wonder why the king wasn’t able to protect us.  Why didn’t he fight the Nazi’s so that they wouldn’t come into Denmark with their guns (15)?”  Her father then goes on to describe that Denmark has only a few soldiers, and would never be able to stand up to the Nazi’s.  Annemarie then realizes that the Nazi’s are not in Sweden.  This realization will become a pivotal fact to the story.

Annemarie is also comforting.  When Ellen, Annemarie, and Kristi get stopped by the Nazi’s, Annemarie tries to make it sound like it was no big deal when her mother finds out what happened.  Annemarie says, “Don’t worry.  It wasn’t anything (7).”  The text then goes on to explain Annemarie’s actions, “She told her mother and Mrs. Rosen of the incident, trying to make it sound humorous and unimportant (7).”  There are many examples of Annemarie’s comforting ways throughout the novel.  When she comforts Ellen after the Nazi’s have invaded their home, when her mother breaks her ankle at Uncle Henrik’s, and when she tells stories to her younger sister Kristi, among others. 

Number the Stars takes place in Copenhagen, Denmark during World War II.  The setting is integral to the story because it is about two young girls who are best friends; one is Lutheran and one is Jewish.  Since Copenhagen was occupied by the Nazi’s during the war, Annemarie and Ellen would not have been able to be friends.  Ellen would have been at risk to be sent to the concentration camps that were scattered throughout Europe.  The beginning of the novel, paints a picture of idyllic Copenhagen, Lowry describes the scenery as Ellen and Annemarie are racing through the streets, “…past the small shops and cafes of her [Annemarie] neighborhood here in northeast Copenhagen.  Laughing, she skirted an elderly lady in black who carried a shopping bag made of string.  A young woman pushing a baby in a carriage moved aside to make way (2).”  In these few sentences, Lowry describes Copenhagen through the eyes of an unaffected youth.  As the story progresses, the Nazi’s presence is more apparent; they seem to be everywhere!  The Nazi’s are on the train, they are in the country; they are even at the fishing docks.  This shows that Ellen, her family, and all the Jews in Copenhagen are at risk.  True to history, Lowry captures occupied Copenhagen with accuracy.

The theme of Number the Stars is not only bravery, but also human decency.  Thousands of Jewish people escaped Nazi occupied Denmark with the help of ordinary concerned citizens.  Without the bravery and compassion exhibited by “the Resistance” many Jewish people’s fate would have been in the Nazi’s hands.  Courage and acceptance are revealed through the actions of Annemarie, her family, and the Resistance.  Number the Stars teaches an important lesson about tolerance and open-mindedness.   

Number the Stars. ISBN 0-440-40327-8. Lois Lowry. 1999. Newbery Medal. Ages 10+.  Historical Fiction.

 

Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry

Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry, by Mildren D. Taylor, is the story of the Logan family and their struggles in Mississippi during the Great Depression.  Cassie, the only daughter in the Logan family, is a rambunctious, outspoken child.  She is just starting to feel the effect of racism in the South and will not stand for it.  When she is shopping at the local grocery and Mr. Wallace helps a little white girl before helping Stacey, Cassie will not sit idly by.  She steps up to Mr. Wallace.  However, the outcome is not what Cassie had envisioned.  Throughout the story, there are many examples just like this.  Cassie is learning what it means to be Black in the South. 

I would use this book to further a discussion on racism.  This book is a great example of narrative historical fiction.  I would couple this book with other books on the subject of racism.

The Great Gilly Hopkins

The Great Gilly Hopkins, by Katherine Paterson, is the story of 11 year-old Galadriel "Gilly" Hopkins.  The book opens with Gilly entering her newest foster home.  Throughout her young life, Gilly has lived in various foster homes; never able to stay in one place long.  Miss Ellis, Gilly's social worker is bringing Gilly to Ms. Trotter's home.  Defiant and stubborn, Gilly is determined to make life difficult for "Trotter" and her foster brother W.E.
Gilly longs to be with her biological mother, Courtney, who lives in California.  One day, Gilly writes a letter to her mother and dishonestly makes the claim that Trotter is an unfit foster mom and that she lives in an unhealthy home.  However, after Gilly sends the letter, she starts to love Trotter and W.E.
After the letter is sent, Gilly's maternal grandmother comes to take Gilly home with her.  Reluctantly,Gilly complies and leaves the foster family she learned to love.  Through this experience, Gilly learns that family is everywhere, and that everyone deserves love.

If I were to teach this book in the classroom, I would use it to further a discussion on family.  We would discuss the plethora of different families and that biological family is not the only type of family.

The Great Gilly Hopkins. ISBN 0-690-03837-2. Katherine Paterson. 1978. Newbery Honor Book. Age 9+. Fiction.

The Latehomecomer

Synopsis:
The Latehomecomer: A Hmong Family Memoir, by Kao Kalia Yang, is a beautiful book written by a young Hmong woman from St. Paul, MN.  The story followers her families immigration to the United States and the hardships and triumphs that pursue.  Yang lyrically captures her family history, as well as, their journey through Laos, to refugee camps in Thailand, and finally America.  Along the way, stories are told, lessons are learned, and her family bond remains.

 Idea for Lesson Plan:
After reading this book, I would have my students write their own memoirs.  They would focus on a specific part of their lives.  We would also use this book to learn more about Hmong culture.  Since Minnesota has a large Hmong population, it is important for students to learn about Hmong traditions, beliefs, and personal experiences.  The Latehomecomer is a beautiful and honest example of history as told through the eyes of a young Hmong woman.


Critique:
Kao Kalia Yang reveals her family through candid and heartfelt memories.  From the beginning of her memoir, Yang gives the reader an accurate picture of her family members and how her culture and their experience has influenced her life.  Through dialogue and narration, Yang carries the reader on her family's journey to America.  True to life, Yang and her family have had adjustments to make.  However, it was important to assimilate in America, without losing their authentic culture.
Set in Laos, Thailand, and America, Yang describes the living conditions in her family's original home in Laos, the refugee camps in Thailand, and their meager residences in Minnesota.  In each location, Yang makes it apparent how her family has had to adjust to the best of their ability to each home.
Through description Yang has lyrically captured her experience as a Hmong woman and how intertwined and connected she is to not only her immediate family, but also her very large extended family.  The Latehomecomer magnificently illustrates one woman's experience growing up Hmong, and reveals her close connection with her culture and family.

The Latehomecomer. ISBN 978-1-56689-208-7. Kao Kalia Yang. 2008. 2009 Minnesota Book Award for Memoir/Create Non-Fiction. Ages 15+. Hmong Non-Fiction. Memoir.

Scorpions

Scorpions, by Walter Dean Myers, is an honest look into the life of a poor, inner city youth and the daily struggles he encounters.  Jamel, the main character, is a twelve year old boy who lives in Harlem with his over-worked mother, and younger sister.  Jamal tries to do the right thing, but is heavily influenced by his neighborhood.  Everyday Jamal is surrounded by violence, drugs, and poverty; elements that make it nearly impossible for him to escape. 
The novel opens in Jamal's home while he is waiting with his sister for their mother to come home from work.  Through dialogue and 3rd person narration, the reader enters Jamal's world.  When Jamal is first introduced to Mack, Jamal believes that he must become the leader of the Scorpions in order to get his brother out of jail.  But, as the novel progresses, Jamal discovers the dangers involved in gang life.  Jamal must decide what is more important, protection or personal respect.
When Jamal acquires a gun, he is given a false sense of bravery and safety.  However, the gun seems to be causing trouble for Jamal, and his best friend Tito.  Jamal and Tito soon find themselves in a bad situation, in which Tito winds up shooting the gun to protect Jamal.  However, the release of that bullet cost a young man his life.  Inevitably, Tito winds up leaving Harlem for Puerto Rico.  Jamal stays in Harlem to battle each day as a young man struggling to survive.
 
If I used this novel for a unit in literature, I would focus on several themes throughout the book.  One theme in particular would be friendship.  I would have my students analyze the relationship between Jamal and Tito, and then write an essay on whether or not their relationship was healthy or toxic by giving examples that support their claim.

Scorpions. ISBN-13: 978-0-06-4477066-7. Water Dean Myers. 1988. Newbery Honor Award. Age 14-18. African American Fiction.

Uncle Jed's Barbershop

Uncle Jed's Barbershop, by Margaree King Mitchell, is the story of Sarah Jean's uncle Jedediah Johnson.  Uncle Jed's dream was to own a barbershop.  He cut hair all around the countryside, and saved every penny he earned.  When Sarah Jean was five years old, she became very ill.  She would need an operation costing $300!  Her family did not have that kind of money, but when Uncle Jed heard about this, he drained is savings to save Sarah Jean's life. A few years later, Uncle Jed had just about enough money to open his barbershop, but the banks were failing, and once again, Uncle Jed lost his money.  However, Uncle Jed persevered and started cutting hair and saving money...again.  Years later, Uncle Jed would finally open his barbershop.  He had everything he wanted, and it was that much better because he had to work so hard for it.

As a teacher, I would use this book to teach a lesson on perseverance.  I would have my students tell me about a time they really wanted something and had to work really hard to get it.  Also, this book would be a good supplement to a discussion on the effects of the Depression on African Americans in the South.

Uncle Jed's Barbershop. ISBN 0-671-76969-3. Margaree King Mitchell. James Ransome. 1993. Coretta Scott King Honor Award for Illustration. Ages 9-12. African American Fiction.

The Snoop

The Snoop, by Jane Resh Thomas, is a simple story about a girl who visits a farm with her grandmother and learns a valuable lesson.  When Ellen and Bon arrive at Bon's friend's home, Bon warns Ellen not to go snooping around.  Ellen of course, is a curious young girl, so the urge to look through people's things is just too strong.  The moment Bon leaves the room, Ellen decides that, "just looking wouldn't be snooping (11)," so she opens a drawer and is fascinated by the ordinary objects inside. When Bon's voice startles Ellen, she drops the necklace she was holding and the beads fly everywhere!  Quickly trying to pick up the beads, Ellen stuffs them back into the drawer and rushes downstairs.
Throughout the day, the bead incident is pulling at Ellen's heart.  She broke her promise not to snoop, and she wrecked a necklace because of it.  When Ellen is caught snooping again by the owner of the home, Janet, she is afraid Bon will tell her mother.  However, Janet takes Ellen through the objects in each drawer, and even explains where the broken necklace came from.
At the end of the trip, Ellen has learned that if she is curious, she only need to ask questions and she will get answers; there is no need to snoop.  She also learns more about who her grandmother is.  Instead of snooping, in order to investigate an object or a person, all we have to do is ask.

If I were to use this book in a unit, I would focus on the relationship between Bon and Ellen.  I would ask my students to find an adult and interview that person about an object that has meaning to them.  For example, when my grandmother died, she gave my mom her wedding ring.  This is very special to my mom because it not only was my grandma's, but it symbolized my grandparent's loving marriage.  After the interview was conducted, I would assign a short essay highlighting their findings.

The Snoop. ISBN 0-395-85821-6. Jane Resh Thomas. Ronald Himler. 1999. Kerlan Award. Age 9-12. Children's fiction.

The Latehomecomer Yopp & Yopp Activity

For this Yopp & Yopp activity, I have chosen the Double Entry Journal activity.  I thought this activity would be appropriate for a non-fiction book.  I am sure most of you have done double entry journals, but for review, I will explain.  While reading, you find a quote that resonates with you, you write it down, and then you explain why you chose that particular quote.  It may be because it made you question your own ideals, or you liked the way it was written, or it taught you something new.
For this during reading activity, please find 3 quotes you like and respond to why you liked the quote.

For example: 

Before babies are born they live in the sky where
they fly among the clouds.  The sky is a happy place
and calling babies down to earth is not an easy
thing to do.  From the sky, babies can see the course
of human lives.

This is what the Hmong children of my genea-
tion are told by our mothers and fathers, by our
grandmothers and grandfathers.

They teach us that we have chosen our lives.  That
the people who we would become we had inside of
us from the beginning, and the people whose
worlds we share, whose memories we hold strong
inside of us, we have always known.

From the sky, I would come again.

This passage is from the very beginning of The Late Homecomer.  I especially liked this passage because it sounded really lovely and melodic.  Also, it is very close to what I believe.  This shows me that even though I am not Hmong, I, as a Caucasian American can have beliefs that are similar to a group of people so very outwardly different from me.  This though reiterates to me that we are not much different from each other.

Your quotes will probably be much shorter, but this passage was too powerful to not comment on.  Enjoy the book!

The Invention of Hugo Cabret

Synopsis:
The Invention of Hugo Cabret, by Brian Selznick, is the story of a young orphaned boy struggling to survive in Paris at the turn of the 20th century.  Since his father and uncle died, Hugo has been running the clocks at the Paris train station.  Poor and alone, Hugo spends most of his time working on his automaton and inspecting his father's notebook; the last remaining pieces of his father's legacy.  When Hugo meets Isabelle, the goddaughter of the toy booth owner, Hugo begins to unravel the mystery of the automaton.  Hugo and Isabelle work together to mend and unlock the automaton.  When Isabelle steals a key from her godmother, Hugo knows that is the one missing piece to make his automaton work.  When they insert the key, the automaton draws a picture.  This picture leads to the discovery of who her godfather really is.  Together, Isabelle and Hugo discover that her godfather was a famous director and made hundreds of movies.  By the novel's end, Hugo has discovered that his father did in fact leave a message in the automaton for him - to dream and believe in yourself.

Idea for Lesson Plan:
As a teacher, I would use this book to supplement a lesson on fiction writing.  Each student would write a short story and incorporate pictures throughout.  Similar to the technique Selznick used in The Invention of Hugo Cabret, my students would imitate this through their story stories.  The illustrations would show that sometimes a picture says more than words can describe.

Critique:
Hugo Cabret, a twelve-year-old Parisian boy, lives in the walls of Paris' train station tending to the various clocks.  Hugo is a tenacious, brave young boy.  After the death of his father and uncle, Hugo continues to maintain the clocks despite his desperate financial state, and courageously does what he can to keep his father's legacy alive via  the automaton. Because of Hugo's deep desire to fix the automaton, the reader develops a fondness toward Hugo.  By stealing from the toy booth, Hugo disregards his fear of being caught for the bigger reward of fixing the automaton.  It is through this spirit of determination that the reader begins to care for Hugo.
The plot of The Invention of Hugo Cabret is constantly leading to more revelations with each conflict resolution. When Isabelle and Hugo unlock the automaton, they discover the drawing that leads to further discovery.  Through the drawing, and specifically the signature at the bottom, Hugo and Isabelle discover that Isabelle's godfather was a famous movie maker.  The automaton drew a picture of Hugo's father's favorite movie - a movie that Isabelle's godfather made.  Through this discovery, Hugo realizes the magic in life and dedicates his life to creating magic.
This 525 page book is full of interesting text coupled with detailed illustrations and real pictures.  Selznick's technique of using illustrations to supplement the text, enhances the "silent movie-esque" style of the novel.  The use of drawings makes the reader use his or her imagination and bring their own view to the story.  Similar to the viewing of  a movie, each person brings differing perspectives which can affect their interpretation of the story.  Selznick has successfully captured a "moving picture" in a novel.

The Invention of Hugo Cabret. ISNB-13: 978-0-439-81378-5. Brian Selznick. 2007. National Book Award Finalist. Ages 12+. Fiction.  Historical Fiction.