Seventeen

Peach’s Picks Rating

Title:
Seventeen

Publication Information:
Publisher: Hearst Communications, Inc, New York, NY
Editor-in-Chief: Ann Shoket
ISSN: 0037-301X
Published 10 times a year with combined issues in December/January and June/July

Length:
Issues are approximately 140 pages

Summary:
Seventeen magazine is aimed at young women in high school and college. It addresses topical issues of concern including health, fashion, grooming, and popular culture. The March 2010 issue includes articles relating to fashion bargains, hairstyling, healthy eating, sexuality, and life issues. A section titled “Your Life” is included in each issue. The March 2010 issue includes an inspirational story about an athlete who lost her leg in a terrible accident, but is determined to play soccer again. Another article in this section discusses eating disorders and the effect a friend who has an eating disorder can have on other friends. Teen girls will be especially interested in the articles titled, “What Guys Really Think about Sex” and “Weird Things Dudes Do Before a Date”. The magazine regularly publishes interviews with famous people. The March 2010 issue features television personality Lauren Conrad. She discusses her life and offers a list of her current favorite books. The magazine is divided into topic sections with a horoscope on the last page. Each section has corresponding links to the Seventeen magazine website, http://www.seventeen.com/, where more information can be retrieved.

Critical Evaluation:
This magazine aimed at teen girls has been a staple since its inception in the 1940s. Throughout the years it has successfully transformed as cultural perceptions have changed. The articles are short and well-written, holding the reader’s attention. The magazine is printed on glossy paper using full color photographs. It is easy to distinguish the advertisements from the features. The topics are timely and speak frankly to issues encountered by teen girls. It is easy to identify Seventeen magazine with its title printed boldly at the top of the cover. The design of the cover is the same each month with an attractive photograph of a well-dressed, well-groomed young woman looking directly at the reader. The photograph is surrounded by tag lines for articles. The table of contents shows the cover photograph and breaks down the tag lines by page number. Color coding at top of each page gives the magazine a chapter-like feel, making it easy to locate sections. The pages are crowded and busy, but that design style is very popular. The March 2010 issue was lacking in ethnic diversity and only heterosexual issues were addressed. Also, the models are thin to normal sized. Fashion and grooming tips for larger young women could be included and integrated into each section of the magazine.

Reader’s Annotation:
If you’ve wondered what your boyfriend does before a date, check out the article, “Weird Things Dudes Do Before a Date”. Make sure to read the bargain fashion sections and you will turn you into a fashionista.

Author Information:
Not applicable

Genre:
Nonfiction – magazine – topical issues

Curriculum Ties:
Include in the library’s magazine browsing collection

Booktalking Ideas:
Use this issue to learn what type of jeans best flatter your body shape.

Some people think you can catch an eating disorder from a friend. Can you?

Reading Level/Interest Age:
Ages 14-19

Other publications intended for a similar market:
Teen Vogue
Marie Claire
Glamour

Challenge Issues:
Discussion of sexual issues
Deal with challenge by having a challenge policy in place, selection policy in place (ALA policies). Meet with library administration if necessary.

Why this work is included in Peach’s Picks:
This magazine has been a staple of teen girls since it began publishing. The YA librarian at my local public library branch suggested it saying that Seventeen is very popular with all girls. It receives four peaches for authentically addressing the issues of teen girls. Five peaches might have been awarded if the March 2010 issue had been more diverse including ethnicities and larger sized young women.

Amazon link:
http://www.amazon.com/Seventeen-2-year/dp/B000LXS9PE/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=magazines&qid=1272153453&sr=8-1

References:
Wikipedia. (2010). “Seventeen (magazine)”. Wikipedia. Retrieved, February 28, 2010, from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seventeen_(magazine)

Napoleon Dynamite

Peach’s Picks Rating


Title:
Napoleon Dynamite

Production Information:
Fox Searchlight Pictures and Paramount Pictures in association with MTV Films
Director – Jared Hess
Producers – Jeremy Coon, Chris Wyatt, Sean Covel
Writers – Jared Hess and Jerusha Hess
Production Designer – Cory Lorenzen
Director of Photography – Munn Powell
Actors – Jon Heder, Jon Gries, Aaron Ruell, Efren Ramirez, Diedrich Bader, Tina Majorino, Sandy Martin, Haylie Duff, Trevor Snarr
Music – John Swihart
Rated PG for thematic elements and language

ISBN:
No identification number available

Copyright:
2004

Length:
95 minutes

Plot Summary:
Napoleon Dynamite is an unpopular nerdy teenage boy living in small-town Idaho with his grandmother and 32-year-old single brother, Kip, who might be a bigger nerd than Napoleon. Grandma goes away on a motorcycle adventure and asks their middle-aged, smooth-talking, scamming Uncle Rico to stay with Napoleon and Kip. Napoleon’s school days are friendless and miserable until he meets Pedro, the geeky new kid in school with the big mustache. Napoleon and Pedro also befriend Deb who is shy and unpopular. Napoleon tries to steer clear of Uncle Rico and his schemes. Kip spends his time in chat rooms cruising for babes. Napoleon just tries to get through the day without being pushed, shoved, and beaten by other high school boys and ignored by girls. Pedro decides to run for class president. In a hilarious turn of events, Napoleon saves Pedro’s campaign with a dance routine. The story wraps up well for all characters. Pedro wins the election. Grandma comes home. Uncle Rico resumes living in his orange camper. Kip and Lafawnduh, the woman he met online, ride out of town together on a Greyhound bus. Napoleon and Deb are last seen developing a bashful romantic relationship over a tether ball game.

Critical Evaluation:
This is a very funny movie that receives kudos for managing to be popular with teenage boys and still receive a PG rating. It is a universal story that any boy can identify with whether they are popular or an outlier on the nerd scale. As is typical in many teen stories, there is no caring parental figure to guide and protect the teens. The writers have done a fine job of creating over-the-top hilarious stereotypes of all characters, being offensive, but offending no one. The action moves quickly and surprises abound. Gag jokes border on offensive; for example, a farmer shoots a cow at short range in front of a school bus full of children. The violence is suggested by the look on the children’s faces, but the viewer does not see the killing. Scenes like this offer just the right amount of gross factor to hold teen boys interested, but keep the movie’s rating at PG. The DVD bonuses that interest viewers includes: commentary from the director and actors; Peluca, a short film by the same director; a wedding scene; deleted scenes.

Viewer’s Annotation:
Napoleon has a pocketful of tater tots and a life full of trouble. Watch the movie and you’ll find out why “Vote for Pedro” t-shirts are popping up everywhere.

Author Information:
None available

Genre:
DVD – comedy

Curriculum Ties:
None

Movie Talking Ideas:
Napoleon is a nerd turned hero who has a blonde fro and all the wrong moves.

Check out the nerdy needy side of Napoleon, laugh-out-loud when he tells the girl of his dreams “I like your sleeves”, cringe when tater tots get squashed in his pants pocket, and your eyes will bug out when you meet Lafawnduh.

Reading Level/Interest Age:
Ages 13-20

Additional works by Director and Script Writer:
Director, Jared Hess: Gentlemen Broncos (2009), Nacho Libre (2006), Peluca (2003)
Writer, Jared Hess: Gentlemen Broncos (2009), Nacho Libre (2006), Peluca (2003)
Writer, Jerusha Hess: Gentlemen Broncos (2009), Nacho Libre (2006)

Challenge Issues:
Sexual humor and language
Deal with challenge by having a challenge policy in place, selection policy in place (ALA policies). Meet with library administration if necessary. Provide positive review(s) from professional publications.

Why this work is included in Peach’s Picks:
This work is included in Peach’s Picks because the YA Librarian at the local branch of the public library recommended it, saying that the movie is very popular with teen boys. The movie is awarded five peaches for reaching the teen audience in a humorous manner and maintaining a PG rating.

Amazon link:
http://www.amazon.com/Napoleon-Dynamite/dp/B00186QBYE/ref=sr_1_12?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1272251807&sr=1-12

References:
IMDb. (2010). “Napoleon Dynamite”. IMDd. Retrieved March 29, 2010, from http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0490822

Falling Hard: 100 Love Poems by Teenagers

Peach’s Picks Rating


Title:
Falling Hard: 100 Love Poems by Teenagers

Author:
Betsy Franco, editor

Illustrator:
None

ISBN:
978-0-7636-3437-7

Publisher:
Cambridge, Massachusetts: Candlewick Press

Copyright:
2008

Length:
144 pages

Plot Summary:
Betsy Franco is well known as an editor of poetry anthologies for young adults. This collection focuses on love in all its shapes, emotions, and genders. There is even a love poem to a piano. The poems range in length from four short lines to five pages in length. The poems were submitted to Ms. Franco via email and came from male and female teens around the world, although most are from teens in the United States. Each poem is signed by the author and their age is given. The authors’ ages range from 12 -18 with the majority of poems written by 15-18 year olds. Some of the poems are humorous, comparing the feelings of love to flour and tortillas. Another poem is achingly heartfelt when describing the feelings of a former fat kid looking for emotional love, but only finding sex with men or women. Some poems talk about bi-racial love and longings.

Critical Evaluation:
The anthology offers original, authentic voices of teens. Most of the works are creative and vent feelings of sadness, happiness, longing, anticipation, lust, and romantic love. A few of the poems border on cliché, but most teens will not realize this as they read the work because the writings will seem fresh to them. The book’s design encourages browsing and the poetry is not arranged in any particular order. The layout is clean and the text is not dense, allowing an open design on each page and making the book easy to read. Each poem is provided its own chapter. Most of the poems are written in free verse and use analogies that teens will relate to and understand. Teenage angst is at its best in this book. At 144 pages, the length is not daunting to a student who is exploring the genre.

Reader’s Annotation:
(Note: An effective manner to promote a poetry book it to read one or two selections that represent the range of the book.)

Memories of You (page 143)
I miss you less than I thought I would.
I miss you more than I think I do.
I want you less than I thought I did.
And I love you more than I ever knew.

Dreams of Ivy ( page, 120-122, last 11 lines)
dance
dance
we dance.
“Ey mambo, mambo ya”
and he asks if we are lovers
“Sisters,” I reply
her Vietnamese fingers
lining my African shoulders
both brown
both bold
both beautiful

Author Information:
Married, three sons who collaborate with her as illustrators or as readers on audio versions of her books; written over 80 books; lives in Palo Alto, California

Genre:
Poetry

Curriculum Ties:
Use in literature classes, creative writing classes, and diversity discussions.

Booktalking Ideas:
Hear the voice of love from other teens: straight, gay, transgendered
Honest poems that will break your heart and heal it again

Reading Level/Interest Age:
High school

Additional Books by Author:
Editor of: You Hear Me?; Things I Have to Tell You; Night is Gone, Day is Still Coming

Challenge Issues:
Sexuality, homosexuality, language
Deal with challenge by having a challenge policy in place, selection policy in place (ALA policies). Meet with library administration if necessary. Provide positive review(s) from professional publications.

Why this work is included in Peach’s Picks:
The book received a positive review in School Library Journal. It receives five peaches for its authentic voice.

Amazon link:
http://www.amazon.com/Falling-Hard-Love-Poems-Teenagers/dp/0763634379/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1271995387&sr=1-1-fkmr0

References:
Franco, B. (2010). “About the author”. Betsy Franco: Children’s Book Author. Retrieved April 22, 2010, from http://www.betsyfranco.com/

Cicada

Peach’s Picks Rating

Title:
Cicada

Publication Information:
Publisher: Carus Publishing Company, Cricket Magazine Group, Chicago, Illinois
Editor-in-Chief: Marianne Carus
Executive Editor: Deborah Vetter
Art Director: John Sanford
Designer: Pamela Bonesteel
Rights and Permissions Coordinator: Diane M. Sikora
ISSN: 1097-4008
Published bimonthly

Length:
48 pages

Summary:
Cicada magazine is aimed at teens and young adults. It contains original poems, works of fiction, and artwork created by its audience. Brief bios of most of the authors are included with each article. Every issue has a theme; for instance the theme of the January/February 2010 issue is “reaching for the stars”. Included is a work of fiction by Chris Wiewiora and beautifully illustrated by Elmer Crabb. The story is told in first person by a young man named Thomas whose goal it is to win the grueling Chicago Marathon. A poem by Fredrick Zydek titled, “Plate Tectonics” is included in this issue. On the surface it discusses the scientific theory of plate tectonics, but the underlying theme is the emotional shifts in a person’s life. The eye-catching cover was created by an artist named Andouiette. It sets the theme’s tone by showing a robotic creature with a hand extending to the stars. Each issue contains a feature titled, “Spot Artist”. The January/February 2010 issue featured work by Megan Russell. A link is offered to her website
http://www.mrillustration.com/.

Critical Evaluation:
This magazine, aimed at teens and young adults, has been a staple for over 25 years. Throughout the years it has successfully transformed as cultural perceptions have changed. The articles are short and well written, holding the reader’s attention. Each issue opens with a letter from the Executive Editor, Deborah Vetter, giving an overview and some background relating to the issue. The magazine is printed on glossy paper. The artwork is reproduced in black and white. The magazine’s art direction is eye-catching and appealing to teens. No advertisements are included in the publication. The topics are timely and speak frankly to topical issues. The table of contents is on the verso of the front page and is clear and easy to navigate. The pages are clean and well-laid out. The publication received a 2010 Parents’ Choice Award. Visit the companion website at http://www.cicadamag.com/. While the magazine is attractive, it is not attractive in a commercial and hip style. It looks like what it is: a literary magazine for teens that high school teachers suggest students read. The publication appears to be required reading rather than a magazine that a teen might choose for pleasure and browsing.

Reader’s Annotation:
A short story tells us of Akshay whose family immigrated to Toronto from India. He is struggling to find his way through high school and his new life while his father and mother struggle with their new life and the many obstacles that immigrants face. In another section of the magazine, the narrator of the poem “Ubi Sunt” longs for a lover who has left their scent behind on a pillow.

Author Information:
All articles are written by teens and young adults

Genre:
Magazine – creative writing

Curriculum Ties:
Use in literature and creative writing classes. Include in the library’s magazine browsing collection

Booktalking Ideas:
If you’ve ever dreamed of having your writing or artwork published, this magazine offers that opportunity.
Read beautiful short stories and poetry composed by teens and young adults that range from science fiction to heart felt musings on life’s meaning.

Reading Level/Interest Age:
High school

Other publications intended for a similar market:
Teen Ink

Challenge Issues:
None apparent, but if the work is challenged deal with challenges by having a challenge policy in place, selection policy in place (ALA policies). Meet with library administration if necessary. Provide positive review(s) from professional publications.

Why this work is included in Peach’s Picks:
This is a highly regarded publication aimed at teens who wish to see their work published. It is found in the YA section of my local branch library. It receives four peaches rather than five because the layout is reminiscent of required reading material rather than hip, popular reading material. The content is worthy of five peaches.

Amazon link:
http://www.amazon.com/Cicada/dp/B00006FXOU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=magazines&qid=1272165316&sr=8-1

References:
Patenaude. J. (2010). “Cricket history”. Cricket Magazine Group: Cobblestone Publishing: Carus Publishing. Retreived February 14, 2010, from http://www.cricketmag.com/pages_content.asp?page_id=3

Bring It On: All or Nothing

Peach’s Picks Rating

Title:
Bring It On: All or Nothing

Production Information:
Universal Studios Family Productions and Beacon Pictures
Director – Steve Rash
Producer – David Roessell
Writer – Alyson Fouse
Production Designer – Simon Dobbin
Director of Photography – Victor J. Kemper
Actors – Hayden Panettiere, Solange Knowles, Gus Carr, Marcy Rylan, Cindy Chiu, Giovonnie Samuels, Francia Raisa, Gary LeRoi Gray, Danielle Savre, Jessica Nicole Fife, Jake McDorman, and Rihanna as herself
Music – Transcenders
Rated PG-13 for sexual humor and language

ISBN:
No identification number available

Copyright:
2006

Length:
1 hour, 39 minutes

Plot Summary:
This is a fast-paced movie with an ensemble cast. It tells the story of Brittany, a spoiled white girl living in a wealthy area of greater Los Angeles. She attends Pacific Vista High School where the student body is predominately white and unaware of life outside their small world. Brittany is a senior in high school, blonde, perky, captain of the school’s award-winning cheer squad, and dates the football hero (whose crude sexual advances are continually rebuffed). She comes home from school one day and learns that her father lost his job and the family is moving to a lower socio-economic area of Los Angles about an hour away from where she presently lives. Brittany will be attending school at Crenshaw Heights High School. The new high school and the diverse students she meets create a cultural shock for both Brittany and the students at Crenshaw Heights. Friends are hard to come by, but finally she is accepted on the school’s cheerleading squad. At the end of the movie the Crenshaw Heights squad faces the Pacific Vista squad in an all-out, no holds barred cheer contest. The winner will perform in pop-star Rihanna’s next music video.

Critical Evaluation:
The characters are flat and stereotypical, however the main characters do grow and change during the course of the story and become more accepting of one another. The plot is predictable. Even with those criticisms, the movie is fun to watch. Brittany finds a new romance, Jesse, at Crenshaw Heights who is a more honorable person than her former boyfriend at Pacific Heights. Also, Jesse is a boy of color, rather than the stereotype rich white football player. The story is not what drives this movie. The cheer moves and the dancing drive the movie and hold the viewer’s attention. The sound track makes the viewer want to get up and dance. The DVD includes the following extras that will engage teens, especially when dance moves are explained: “Gag Reel” showing how the movie was made; “Cheer Camp” showing the cast learning the moves; “Break it Down” and “From the Street to the Set” showing the viewer how to do the cheers and dance steps with attitude. The movie had quite a bit of product placement offering advertising messages to unsuspecting teens.

Viewer’s Annotation:
Wealthy and spoiled, Brittany is living the good life as a cheer captain with a star football player for a boyfriend. Through a change of fortune she finds herself attending another school in a working class part of Los Angeles competing against her old cheer squad and the competition is vicious.

Author Information:
None available

Genre:
DVD – comedy - sport

Curriculum Ties:
None

Movie Talking Ideas:
If you want to pick up some new dance moves, check out the “Bonus Features” of this DVD. Clear instructions set to great music are provided.
Romance, drama with friends, cheerleading, and dancing are bringing it on in this fast-paced DVD.

Reading Level/Interest Age:
Ages 14-18

Additional works by Director and Script Writer:
Steve Rash also directed the movies Road Trip: Beer Pong (2009), Bring It On: In it to Win (2007), among others

Alyson Fouse also wrote the following for the following television programs among others: Til Death (2010), Wanda Skyes Show (2010)

Challenge Issues:
Sexual humor and language
Deal with challenge by having a challenge policy in place, selection policy in place (ALA policies). Meet with library administration if necessary.

Why this work is included in Peach’s Picks:
This work is included in Peach’s Picks because the YA Librarian at the local branch of the public library recommended it saying that the movie is very popular with teen girls. After considering the movie and “Bonus Features” I decided to award it three peaches. The movie is fun, but it also stereotypes teens and contains an excessive amount of product placement. The dance information provided in the “Bonus Features” segment is an area that teens will enjoy.

Amazon link:
http://www.amazon.com/Bring-All-Nothing-Full-Screen/dp/B000FS9MXS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=dvd&qid=1272131767&sr=8-1

References:
IMDb. (2010). “Bring it on: All or nothing”. IMDd. Retrieved March 30, 2010, from http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0374900/

Going Bovine

Peach’s Picks Rating


Title:
Going Bovine

Author:
Libba Bray

Illustrator:
None

ISBN:
978-0-385-73397-7

Publisher:
New York: Delacorte Press

Copyright:
2009

Length:
480 pages

Plot Summary:
Cameron, a 16-year-old slacker living in Texas, has a popular twin sister who does not want much to do with him. All he wants is to get through life without effort. He realizes that he has been feeling especially lethargic and finds himself diagnosed with Creutzfeldt-Jacob disease, otherwise known as mad cow disease. The diagnosis is death and he hasn’t even lived life or kissed the beautiful but unattainable Staci. Now he is in the hospital on his journey toward death and talking a parallel hallucinatory ride that reflects those of Don Quixote on drugs. He is guided on his soul-searching trips by Dulcinea, a pink-haired angle with white feathery wings. His companion is Gonzo, a Mexican-American dwarf and Balder, a talking garden gnome. Cameron’s travels take him through the south looking for Dr. X, who can cure him. Along the way Cameron fights the Dark Wizard and fire giants who keep attacking him. Readers will laugh out loud at Cameron’s musings and adventures and, like Cameron, will find it complicated to distinguish reality from hallucinations.

Critical Evaluation:
This is a long and difficult book that bogs down in the middle. It is also a funny and witty book that will make the reader laugh out loud and cry at the inevitable sad ending that is curiously satisfying. The book is complicated and the reader must pay close attention or become lost in the many threads. However, if a reader is able to remain with the story, they will be rewarded by Cameron’s insights, struggles, and hallucinatory travels. Cameron’s character rings true as a teenage boy and even though death is inevitable the story does not become maudlin. In order to get the most out of the quirky story the reader needs to be familiar with Don Quixote by Cervantes and with Norse mythology. The book is recommended for strong readers rather than reluctant readers. Fans of Bray’s other books might feel themselves on unfamiliar territory with this offering, but will recognize her use of fantasy and magic if they stick with the book. It is a thought provoking, funny book, which will keep Cameron in the reader’s mind long after he finishes his story.

Reader’s Annotation:
Cameron knows he’s a slacker just trying to get through high school, but now he really feels like one and to everyone’s surprise he’s been diagnosed with mad cow disease. He’s traveling in and out of the hospital on fantastical adventures with a dwarf and a talking garden gnome. Cameron seeks to save his life, lose his virginity, and destroy the Dark Wizard.

Author Information:
Born 1964 in Alabama and raised in Texas
Moved to New York City when she was 26-years-old
Her father was a Presbyterian minister
She lost her left eye in a car accident and has an artificial eye
Married with one son
Favorite books include: To Kill A Mockingbird, Lord of the Flies, Catcher in the Rye
Maintains a blog, http://libba-bray.livejournal.com/

Genre:
Contemporary realistic fiction - issues

Curriculum Ties:
Use in literature classes.

Booktalking Ideas:
Do you remember the book Flat Stanley by Jeff Brown and the project where you had to send him around the world…well, Cameron in Going Bovine has a garden gnome that goes on adventures that are more exhilarating and raunchy than Flat Stanley could ever imagine.
Sixteen-year-old Cameron is going to die and he hasn’t even started living yet.

Reading Level/Interest Age:
High school

Additional Books by Author:
Rebel Angels
A Great and Terrible Beauty
Sweet Far Thing
Many more publications

Challenge Issues:
Language, sexual situations, death
Deal with challenge by having a challenge policy in place, selection policy in place (ALA policies). Meet with library administration if necessary. Provide positive review(s) from professional publications.

Why this work is included in Peach’s Picks:
Going Bovine is included in this blog because it won the 2010 Printz Award. The book only receives four peaches because, while it is unique, it is too long and bogs down in the middle.

Amazon link:
http://www.amazon.com/Going-Bovine-Libba-Bray/dp/0385733976

References:
Bray. L. (2010). “Biography”. libbabray.com. Retrieved April 10, 2010, from http://libbabray.com/

Word Gets Around

Peach’s Picks Rating


Title:
Word Gets Around

Author:
Lisa Wingate

Illustrator:
none

ISBN:
978-0-7642-0491-3

Publisher:
Minneapolis, Minnesota: Bethany House

Copyright:
2009

Length:
363 pages

Plot Summary:
Lauren Eldridge, young, attractive, and recently widowed, has relocated from Daily, Texas to work at a university in Kansas. She left behind a life of horse training and ranching, a loving father, and painful memories of her husband who died in a tragic accident. Lauren’s father and his crony need her help and pressure her to return. The two men invested everything they own into producing a movie script, “The Horseman”, which has been unsuccessfully kicking around Hollywood for years. They have connected with Justin Shay, a screen idol who is beginning to tarnish around the edges. Justin needs a vehicle to save his career and he believes this movie is his ticket back to fame and fortune. Justin snags Nathaniel Heath, a screenwriter, to help him with the task. They are childhood friends who grew up together in foster care. Lauren’s father pleads for her help. She reluctantly agrees to return to Daily and assist with horse training. Nathaniel halfheartedly agrees to accompany Justin to Daily. The book is told in alternating chapters from Lauren and Nathaniel’s point of view. The reader watches their pain heal and their affection for one another grow.

Critical Evaluation:
All the characters are flat, predictable, and stereotypical. As soon as the reader is introduced to Lauren and Nathaniel it is clear that they will become a couple. Of course, they do not realize this so Lauren’s meddling aunt and friends steer their relationship in that direction. Lauren experiences painful flashbacks where it is revealed that she and her husband were not happy and she considered ending their marriage. It seems that the writer killed Lauren’s husband because a dead husband is a better alternative than divorce in Christian fiction. The writer and editor are not familiar with Southern California terminology and awkwardly refer to locations by their map names rather than phrases used locally. Also, the film industry terminology is stiff and awkwardly phrased. The literary construct of alternating chapters between Lauren and Nathaniel’s voice helps the story move along and adds interest when viewing events from different perspectives. This is the second book in the “Daily Texas” series.

Reader’s Annotation:
Lauren’s father needs her back home in Daily, Texas, but she does not want to face the emotional pain she will find there. Nathaniel, a lonely Hollywood screen writer, is also on his way to Daily where he will confront his own emotional pain and come to terms with it.

Author Information:
Lives in Texas
Evangelical Christian
Has two sons
Began writing career as a journalist and technical writer
Her book “Tending Roses” was inspired by stories from her grandmother
Books ideas come from real-life inspirations
She is also a magazine columnist and inspirational speaker

Genre:
Christian Fiction – contemporary realistic

Curriculum Ties:
Use in connection with literature classes

Booktalking Ideas:
Lauren and Nathaniel are two lonely people yearning for love.

Take a trip and visit life in friendly small-town Daily, Texas where everyone knows everyone else’s business.

Hollywood meets Texas ranch life in this entertaining romance novel.

Reading Level/Interest Age:
High school / adult crossover

Additional Books by Author:
Talk of the Town (first in “Daily Texas” series)
Tending Roses
Drenched in Light
Many other books

Challenge Issues:
None, but if challenged; deal with challenge by having a challenge policy in place, selection policy in place (ALA policies). Meet with library administration if necessary. Provide positive review(s) from professional publications.

Why this work is included in Peach’s Picks:
The book received a positive review in Booklist and Lisa Wingate is a popular writer of Christian fiction. It receives one peach for being a forced, sappy novel.

Amazon link:
http://www.amazon.com/Word-Gets-Around-Lisa-Wingate/dp/0764204912/ref=sr_1_1_oe_2?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1271445230&sr=1-1

References:
Wingate, L. (2010). “Lisa Wingate”. The Official Site. Retrieved April 1, 2020, from http://www.lisawingate.com/

Tender Morsels

Peach’s Picks Rating

Title:
Tender Morsels

Author:
Margo Lanagan

Illustrator:
None

ISBN:
978-0-375-84811-7

Publisher:
New York: Alfred A. Knopf

Copyright:
2008

Length:
433 pages

Plot Summary:
This is a startling twist on the Grimm Brothers’ tale of Snow White and Rose Red. It tells the tale of Liga and her daughters, Branza and Urdda, who live deep in a magical forest distant from the cruelties of others and the world. It seems that nothing can go wrong and no one can be hurt. It is a world that Liga is lucky enough to find herself in after she survives cruelties including incest and rape by her father and a gang rape. She is isolated in her utopia raising her daughters. As in the tale of Snow White and Rose Red, there is a gentle daughter, Branza, and a headstrong daughter, Urdda. As in the fairy tale, bears and a dwarf play key figures. The story takes place in a vaguely medieval time and the characters move between two worlds. One world is the cocoon that Liga finds for herself and the other is the real world full of the pain and joy of humans. Urdda is the first to make her way out of her mother’s safe but stifling cocoon. Then Branza follows her. Finally, Liga rejoins the real world, but to her disappointment, time has not stood still while she recovered from the cruelties she endured as a young woman.

Critical Evaluation:
The author’s use of language and setting is magical and lyrical. The characters, both main and secondary, are well developed. The violence perpetrated against Liga is palpable. The reader is left to decide if Liga’s world is real or if she is emotionally ill and has used psychological coping techniques to isolate herself from the traumas inflicted upon her. Many of the scenes are very disturbing. The book is recommended for older teens. Just when it seems too long, the reader is pulled back into the beautiful prose and the lives of the three women trying to find their way through life. All view the world from different perspectives offering much fodder for discussion. Initially, the ending created for Liga is disappointing, but after reflection it perfectly matches the path she chose for herself. The story can be difficult to follow because Lanagan’s writing is so dense and the stories of Liga, her daughters, and the creatures that penetrate their haven are very complicated. The book is worth lingering over at a steady pace and the reader will be rewarded with a memorable story at the end.

Reader’s Annotation:
Liga has two daughters, one is a product of incest and rape and the other a product of a gang rape. She has retreated to a world that is peaceful and without harm, until the bear comes.

Author Information:
Lives in Sydney, Australia
Born in 1960
No other information available

Genre:
Fantasy

Curriculum Ties:
Use in literature classes and creative writing classes.

Booktalking Ideas:
After incest and a gang rape that produce two daughters, Liga discovers she has crossed over into a parallel universe that offers a safe haven. Bears that morph to men and back again and a rude dwarf begin traveling in and out of their safe haven bringing joy and perhaps the horrors that Liga wanted so much to escape.

Reading Level/Interest Age:
High school

Additional Books by Author:
White Time
Black Juice
Red Spikes

Challenge Issues:
Sexuality, cruelty, hints of bestiality
Deal with challenge by having a challenge policy in place, selection policy in place (ALA policies). Meet with library administration if necessary. Provide positive review(s) from professional publications.

Why this work is included in Peach’s Picks:
The book received a Printz Award Honor (2009) and a starred review in School Library Journal and Booklist. It receives 5 peaches for its creative and intriguing story that reflects fairy tales I enjoyed as a child.

Amazon link:
http://www.amazon.com/Tender-Morsels-Margo-Lanagan/dp/0375848118/ref=sr_1_1_oe_3?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1271617981&sr=1-1

References:
None for this entry

Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing, Traitor to the Nation, Volume 1: The Pox Party

Peach’s Picks Rating


Title:
The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing, Traitor to the Nation, Volume 1: The Pox Party

Author:
M. T. Anderson

Illustrator:
None

ISBN:
978-0-7636-2402-6

Publisher:
Cambridge, Massachusetts: Candlewick Press

Copyright:
2006

Length:
351 pages

Plot Summary:
The book is told in first person by Octavian, whom the reader meets as a young boy living in the lap of luxury in pre-Revolutionary Boston. His beautiful young mother is considered an African princess. She is treated as royalty in the household and admired by all male visitors, many of whom would like to make her their own. Slowly it is revealed that Octavian and his mother are slaves owned by Mr. Gitney. They are kept as an experiment by the Novanglian College of Lucidity which is attempting to determine the intellectual capacity of Africans. Octavian receives a classical education and knows nothing of the outside world. His world crumbles as the fortunes of the College of Lucidity are affected by the American Revolution, smallpox, and his mother’s death. By now Octavian is a teenager and runs away to join the Patriot’s cause, but he is captured and returned to his owners. His punishment is to wear an iron mask with a metal bit placed between his lips to keep him from speaking. Once again he escapes thanks to help from a former teacher. The second book continues the story from this point.

Critical Evaluation:
This book is an interesting mix of first-person narrative, fictional letters, and entries by the protagonist, Octavian. Octavian is well-educated and fluid in his speech and writing ability. The author uses an interesting literary device showing Octavian’s frustration and lack of words to describe his condition by creating pages that seem to be written in his hand. The words he has written are violently scribble through seemingly in anger and frustration. The writing is very formal as though it is attempting to mimic prose of the time period. The story is filled with information about history that may not be presented in history books, such as the holding of social events known as Pox Parties where guests were exposed to smallpox. The ideas presented are disturbing and make the characters seem hopeless. The story is intriguing, takes surprising twists, and has a sympathetic character in Octavian, but it is much too long and only the most ardent readers and lovers of historical fiction will make their way through it. They will question if attempting volume 2 is worth the effort.

Reader’s Annotation:
Octavian’s life in pre-Revolutionary Boston transforms from pampered and beloved little boy to runaway teenage slave trying to save his life and gain freedom. He discovers that his life is nothing but an experiment fueled by the money of wealthy white male philosophers who seek to prove that Africans are of lesser intellect.

Author Information:
Born in 1968
Lives in Cambridge, Massachusetts
Attended Harvard University and Cambridge University, received and MFA in Creative Writing from Syracuse University
Board member of National Children’s Book and Literacy Alliance (NCBLA)
Held various jobs before becoming a full-time writer including; department store cashier and radio D.J.

Genre:
Historical fiction

Curriculum Ties:
Use this book in conjunction with American history, especially pre-Revolutionary studies and studies of slavery. The book can also be used in literature classes. A complimentary book is Chains by Laurie Halse Anderson.

Booktalking Ideas:
A view of slavery and pre-Revolutionary America that is not shown in textbooks.

Underlying the story is the moral question of experimenting with humans without their knowledge or consent and the harm that can be done when this happens.

Reading Level/Interest Age:
High school

Additional Books by Author:
The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing, Traitor to the Nation, Volume II: The Kingdom on the Waves
Feed
Burger Wuss
Thirsty
Many more books

Challenge Issues:
None apparent, but if challenged; deal with challenge by having a challenge policy in place, selection policy in place (ALA policies). Meet with library administration if necessary. Provide positive review(s) from professional publications.

Why this work is included in Peach’s Picks:
This book is included because it received a starred review in Booklist, received the National Book Award (2006), and was a Printz Honor book (2007). It only received four peaches because although it is an award-winning book and a fascinating look into history, it is too long, making one wonder if it was worth the time.

Amazon link:
http://www.amazon.com/Astonishing-Octavian-Nothing-Traitor-Nation/dp/B0013L2E04/ref=sr_1_1_oe_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1271562038&sr=1-1

References:
(2010). “M. T. Anderson: biography.” Scholastic. Retrieved April 17, 2010, from http://www2.scholastic.com/browse/contributor.jsp?id=2882

Reality Check

Peach’s Picks Rating


Title:
Reality Check

Author:
Peter Abrahams

Illustrator:
none

ISBN:
978-0-06-122766-0

Publisher:
New York: HarperTeen / Laura Geringer Books

Copyright:
2009

Length:
330 pages

Plot Summary:
Cody Laredo and Clea Watson, a high school couple, are in a committed relationship. Cody is a star football player from the wrong side of town who hopes to attend college on a football scholarship. Clea is an accomplished student and talented horsewoman living in an exclusive wealthy neighborhood with her father and stepmother. Cody lives alone with his father who does not pay much attention to him or his whereabouts. Two incidents bring Cody’s world crashing down; Clea is sent away to an exclusive boarding school in Dover, Vermont; and his knee is so badly injured during a football game that he will sit out the remainder of the season. There is no longer hope of receiving a football scholarship, ending his plans for attending college. With his dreams dashed he drops out of high school and works for a construction company. Thinking it best for Clea, he broke up with her before she left their home town of Little Bend, Colorado. Cody learns that Clea has gone missing from boarding school. He suspects foul play and runs away to search for her. Twists, turns, and danger meet him along the way. A villain sure to surprise all is revealed at the end.

Critical Evaluation:
The plot moves along quickly, keeping even reluctant readers engaged. The story is told in third person from Cody’s point of view. He is a believable popular teenage boy. His experiences and reactions are believable, even though it seems a little far fetched that he could make it from Colorado to Vermont and support himself. Clea’s character is not as well developed as Cody’s character, but readers will identify with her. Clea’s new boyfriend at boarding school is a stereotype of a rich, spoiled East Cost moneyed teen. The growth of Cody’s character is developed through experiences he has living on his own, making life changing decisions, and navigating through danger. Red herrings are sprinkled throughout the fast paced book. Chapters are short ending with just enough action or suspense to make it difficult to put down the book. The ending is rather abrupt and readers might need to look over the last few pages to be sure they have not missed a plot turn. The reader cares about the characters, especially Cody. The story satisfies the need that teens have for empowerment – solving problems on their own without the help of adults. It is a totally fun read.

Reader’s Annotation:
Cody’s girlfriend, away at boarding school, is in the news headlines as missing. He runs away to find her, but runs into problems more dangerous than a missing girlfriend.

Author Information:
Lives on Cape Cod In the town of Falmouth, Massachusetts
Married with four children
Born in Boston Massachusetts, 1947
Nabokov is Mr. Abrahams’ favorite writer
The work of Graham Greene influences his writing
Formerly a CBC (Canadian Broadcasting Corporation) television producer

Genre:
Mystery

Curriculum Ties:
Use in literature classes.

Booktalking Ideas:
A story filled with twists and danger with a boy deciding his own fate while he tries to save his girlfriend’s life.

The well-paced suspenseful plot will hook you from the moment you meet Cody, the popular high football star, and his smart girlfriend, Clea.

Reading Level/Interest Age:
High school

Additional Books by Author:
Behind the Curtain
Down the Rabbit Hole
Echo Falls series
Many more books

Challenge Issues:
Teen sexuality and language
Deal with challenge by having a challenge policy in place, selection policy in place (ALA policies). Meet with library administration if necessary. Provide positive review(s) from professional publications.

Why this work is included in Peach’s Picks:
This book received a positive review in School Library Journal and Peter Abrahams is a well-regarded author. It receives five peaches for being a good read with believable characters.

Amazon link:
http://www.amazon.com/Reality-Check-Laura-Geringer-Books/dp/0061227668/ref=sr_1_3_oe_2?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1271523721&sr=1-3

References:
Abrahams, Peter. (2010). Peter Abrahams.com. Retrieved April, 10, 2010, from http://www.peterabrahams.com/

(2010). “Peter Abrahams (American Author)”. Wikipedia. Retrieved April, 10, 2010, from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peter_Abrahams_(American_author)

Hole in My Life

Peach’s Picks Rating

Title:
Hole in My Life

Author:
Jack Gantos

Illustrator:
none

ISBN:
0-374-39988-3

Publisher:
New York: Farrar, Straus and Giroux

Copyright:
2002

Length:
200 pages

Plot Summary:
The book opens with a black and white mug shot taken in 1972 of a tough looking prisoner, Jack Gantos. The first chapter gives a brief overview of his life in prison. It sets the stage for telling the journey that brought him to the Federal Correctional Institution in Ashland, Kentucky, where he was incarcerated for drug smuggling. Gantos’ raw and gripping story begins in high school and continues following his decision to be a drug runner in the early 1970s. His plan was to earn cash to pay for college where he would be come a writer. Instead he only dreams about writing while struggling with alcoholism and a dysfunctional family. The reader is treated to edge-of-the-seat excitement as a naïve Jack agrees to smuggle drugs from Florida to New York City. He is seduced into the world of drug trafficking, a world that he believes will bring him easy cash for college. It is a world where everyone is a villain and no one can be trusted. He is arrested and sent to prison where he is frightened and unprepared for the violent life of a prisoner. There are islands of hope: a guard gives him books and paper and pencil for his writing; he has a job as an x-ray technician that keeps him relatively safe; and he begins to take responsibility for his future. When he first arrived in prison, he blamed everyone but himself for his circumstances. Slowly, through reading, keeping journals, and other writings he dug his way out of blame and self-loathing. The story concludes when Jack is accepted to college and is paroled after 15 months in prison, but it does not end there. Jack Gantos has gone on to be a successful award-winning writer.

Critical Evaluation:
This is an accessible book for young adults with a compelling story that will interest even reluctant readers. It is told like a story in short chapters that are fast paced and conclude with enough tension that the reader immediately wants to begin the next chapter. The language is raw; however, more native language (slang) and expletives could have been used to better illustrate speech patterns of the rough life that was Jack Gantos’ world. The lack of raw language probably reflects the date of publication (2002) rather than actual speech patterns. The story is a good ride and the reader cannot anticipate what will happen on each page. It is an excellent book for starting discussions about authors and to inspire writers. It shows Jack Gantos as an authentic young adult living in a troubled world. It could be paired with Monster by Walter Dean Myers and The Beet Fields by Gary Paulsen.

Reader’s Annotation:
Jack Gantos is a high school student living with family friends who finally kick him out after a drinking binge that ends with his vomiting in every room of the house.
One day when Jack is 20 years old and in prison, two men come knocking on his cell and strongly request that he visit them to perform a repugnant act.

Author Information:
Born in Mount Pleasant, Pennsylvania, 1951
Raised in South Florida and Puerto Rico
Spent time in prison for smuggling drugs
Married with one daughter
Says he has always been a passionate reader and always wanted to be a writer
Developed a master’s degree program in writing for children at Emerson College and Vermont College
His books have been nominated and received many awards including a Printz honor (2003) for Hole in My Life

Genre:
Autobiography

Curriculum Ties:
Use in secondary school literature classes when studying authors.
Use in human development curriculums when studying life choices and journeys.

Booktalking Ideas:
One of your favorite picture book authors served a prison sentence for smuggling drugs.

A want-to-be writer with no future and no hope becomes an award-winning writer after struggling with alcohol, drugs, depression, and a prison record.

Reading Level/Interest Age:
High school

Additional Books by Author:
Jack’s Black Book
Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key
Heads or Tails: Stories from the Sixth Grade
Desirelines
Many more

Challenge Issues:
Drugs, drug trafficking, underage drinking, language, rape
Deal with challenge by having a challenge policy in place, selection policy in place (ALA policies). Meet with library administration if necessary. Provide positive review(s) from professional publications.

Why this work is included in Peach’s Picks:
The book received a starred review in Booklist. It is a riveting account of a well known children’s author of picture books, chapter books for intermediate readers, and young adult novels. It receives five peaches for being a frank, well told, unexpected life journey of a favorite author.

Amazon link:
http://www.amazon.com/Hole-My-Life-Jack-Gantos/dp/0374399883/ref=sr_1_1_oe_3?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1271532887&sr=1-1

References:
Gantos, J. (2010). “Bio & photos”. Jack Gantos. Retrieved April 2, 2010, from http://www.jackgantos.com/

War Is: Soldiers, Survivors, and Storytellers Talk About War

Peach’s Picks Rating


Title:
War Is: Soldiers, Survivors, and Storytellers Talk About War

Author:
Marc Aronson and Patty Campbell, editors

Illustrator:
None

ISBN:
978-0-7636-3625-8

Publisher:
Cambridge, Massachusetts: Candlewick Press

Copyright:
2008

Length:
194 pages

Plot Summary:
This is a well-crafted anthology containing first person narratives of war experiences, thoughtful writings, and two works of fiction: a one-act play and a short story. Each editor writes an introduction explaining their stance on the act of war. Patty Campbell’s stance is clearly against war and thinks that wars should not be fought, but she says that wars are inevitable. Marc Aronson’s stance is also anti-war. He feels that people enjoy war, even as much as they enjoy sex. His belief is that society can best honor those who have served as soldiers by listening respectfully to their stories. The book is divided into four sections containing short narratives, each written by soldiers that served in World War I, World War II, Iraq, or Viet Nam. Both men and women tell of their experiences. Women tell of being harassed by fellow soldiers as well as the enemy. An especially interesting entry is by Bill Bigelow, explaining the recruitment of high school students into the armed forces. No matter what the reader’s stance on war, these narratives and stories offer much to consider.

Critical Evaluation:
All the chapters with the exception of the last one are works of nonfiction, either personal accounts or writings on the topic of war. The last chapter, “Aftermath of War”, includes a one-act play and short story. The reader has been so immersed in nonfiction that it is difficult to switch gears and keep in mind that one is reading a play and a story. This creates some minor dissonance and slightly distracts from the power of the nonfiction accounts. The strength of the book shines when soldiers tell their own stories. The book could also have included stories by civilians from war-torn countries. Withstanding that criticism it is an excellent book that expresses the emotions of soldiers and often shows their change from eager soldier to shell-shocked vet. The one-act play is an especially wrenching portrayal of a young female soldier who has returned from her tour of duty and cannot find the strength to return to civilian life. The authors have included further readings and copyright acknowledgments.

Reader’s Annotation:
If the Bible says, “Thou shalt not kill”, how can a chaplain best serve soldiers?
Women in the army are called bitches, hos, or dykes – and that’s by their fellow soldiers…why?

Author Information:
Marc Aronson: Award winning author, married – two sons, PhD in American history from NYU, never served in the armed forces
Patty Campbell: Critic, author, teacher, librarian, working in the field of young adult literature for more than 30 years, active in American Library Association (ALA), active in the National Council of Teachers of English, lives in San Diego, California, writes the column “The Sand in the Oyster” for Horn Book magazine

Genre:
Alternative format – an anthology of nonfiction and fiction based on one topic

Curriculum Ties:
American history class
Philosophy class
Discussions about war

Booktalking Ideas:
The stories are immediate and engaging with one soldier describing battle as the worst experience in life; even so he is unhesitatingly reenlisting.

By focusing on the personal narrative of soldiers, the editors make their dramatic, soul-searching revelations jump off the page.

Reading Level/Interest Age:
High school

Additional Books by Author:
Marc Aronson: Race: A History Beyond Black and White, Unsettled: The Problem of Loving Israel, For Boys Only: The Biggest, Baddest Book Ever (co-written with H.P. Newquist)

Patty Campbell: Robert Cormier: Daring to Disturb the Universe, Campbell’s Scoop: Reflections on Young Adult Literature

Challenge Issues:
Anti-war philosophical leaning
Deal with challenge by having a challenge policy in place, selection policy in place (ALA policies). Meet with library administration if necessary. Provide positive review(s) from professional publications.

Why this work is included in Peach’s Picks:
This book received a starred review in Booklist. It offers a distinct philosophy of war that leads to discussion. I looked for books other than novels while researching for this database. I happened upon this book in the library, saw that it had a favorable review and, after reading it, thought it could be used in conjunction with Walter Dean Myers' titles Sunrise Over Fallujah and Fallen Angels. The book receives five peaches for being a unique, honest, and compelling book about war.

Amazon link:
http://www.amazon.com/War-Soldiers-Survivors-Storytellers/dp/0763636258/ref=sr_1_1_oe_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1271373862&sr=1-1

References:
(2010). “Marc Aronson: Biography”. Simon & Schuster. Retrieved April 1, 2010, from http://authors.simonandschuster.com/Marc-Aronson/16878954

(2010). “Patty Campbell: Author spotlight”. Random House, Inc. Retrieved April 1, 2010, from http://www.randomhouse.com/author/results.pperl?authorid=76407

My Name is Jason. Mine Too. Our Story. Our Way.

Peach’s Picks Rating


Title:
My Name Is Jason. Mine Too. Our Story. Our Way.

Author:
Jason Reynolds and Jason Griffin

Illustrator:
Illustrated by authors

ISBN:
978-0-06-154788-1

Publisher:
New York: Harper Collins/Joanna Cotler Books

Copyright:
2009

Length:
unpaged

Plot Summary:
Jason and Jason met in college. Both are artists; one a poet, the other a painter. They are also performance artists. After graduating from college the two Jasons move to New York with plans to make it BIG. But, making it BIG is not happening as they hoped. The Jasons have lots of dreams, but reality is a nightmare. They are hungry and cold, worry about paying rent, experience the serious illness of a mother, their talents are unrecognized, and they doubt themselves. One Jason is African-American and the other Jason is white. Even though their skin color is different, they share the same hopes and dreams – that of becoming men regarded for their talent and creativity. Jason and Jason share the universal experience of young men struggling to find themselves and fit into society and the world. The reader sees their individual experiences and mutual experiences as they struggle to make their way in the adult world. The book is told in a poetic manner similar to a novel in verse.

Critical Evaluation:
This is a beautiful graffiti-like work of poetry and art that will resonate with older teens and emerging adults; male or female, artist or jock. It is a fit-in-your-hand size book with glossy colored pages created in mixed media. The verse flows free reflecting the experiences of a young black man and a young white man who are best friends and consider themselves emotional brothers. It is self indulgent in an appealing young adult manner, mixing angst with hope. The text and colorful illustrations complement one another and the book moves with speed reflecting the young men’s emotions. It is not an autobiography or a memoir; rather it reflects the emotional life of two young men. Jason, of African-American heritage, seems more transparent in the book while Jason, of white heritage, hides himself; he creates a wall between himself and the reader by wearing sunglasses and clothing that seems like a costume. The only down side to the book is that the reader is left desiring more – more of their reflective work and wondering where life will take them next. This book is highly recommended as a browsing book for emerging adults. It is an excellent tool to use when exploring self-identity. The poetry is short and concise and the artwork enhances the emotion of the words.

Reader’s Annotation:
Two guys graduate from college and move to New York City as roommates seeking fame and fortune. They are artists who are hungry, poor, share the same first name and emotions, but not the same color skin.

Author Information:
Jason Reynolds – lives in Brooklyn, NY; grew up in Oxon Hill, MD; attended the University of Maryland at College Park; loves all music, especially Jimi Hendrix; favorite book is The Autobiography of Malcolm X
Jason Griffin – none available

Genre:
Poetry

Curriculum Ties:
Literature class
Art class
Creative writing class
Diversity discussions

Booktalking Ideas:
Take a look at what life is like after graduating from college.
Examine the blending of spoken word and art.
The words and pictures of two young men give one heartrending story.

Reading Level/Interest Age:
High school

Additional Books by Author:
None

Challenge Issues:
Interracial friendship
Deal with challenge by having a challenge policy in place, selection policy in place (ALA policies). Meet with library administration if necessary. Provide positive review(s) from professional publications.

Why this work is included in Peach’s Picks:
The book receives five peaches because it hits the soul of 18 to 21-year-old angst. It is a wonderfully illustrated account of two young men’s hopes, dreams, and ongoing struggles to become successful adults who respect themselves. It crosses socio-economic, racial, and gender borders to touch the heart of young adults. It received a starred review in School Library Journal and is nominated for a 2010 NUSPA Award in the “Best Poetry Book” category.

Amazon link:
http://www.amazon.com/My-Name-Jason-Mine-Too/dp/0061547883/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1271287232&sr=1-1

References:
Griffin, J. (2010). “Big News, Big News, Big News!!!” Increase/Decrease. Retrieved April 14, 2010, from http://increase-decrease.com/2010/04/

Reynolds, J. (2010). “Jason Reynolds”. Myspace. Retrieved March 10, 2010, from http://www.myspace.com/48393653

Charles and Emma: The Darwins' Leap of Faith

Peach's Picks Rating


Title:
Charles and Emma: The Darwins’ Leap of Faith

Author:
Deborah Heiligman

Illustrator:
none

ISBN:
978-0-8050-8721-5

Publisher:
New York: Henry Holt and Company

Copyright:
2009

Length:
236 pages

Plot summary:
Charles Darwin could not decide whether or not to marry, so he did what any scientist would do when examining a case -- he created a pros and cons list. While the cons seemed to outweigh the pros, he found himself deeply in love and intellectually connected with his cousin, Emma Wedgwood. Their love story and family life is the backdrop of this biography. It is a well-researched and engaging look at the personal life of Charles and Emma and offers a snapshot of the Victorian English social class in which the Darwins lived. Emma was intelligent, well-educated, thoughtful, and deeply religious. Charles shared the same traits as Emma with the exception of her religious views. He was agnostic. Heiligman directly represents the only conflict in their lives, that of religion and a life after death. Even with this fundamental philosophical difference, they loved and respected one another throughout their marriage. Diaries, journals, and other primary sources bring the story to life. The reader experiences Emma and Charles’ anguish upon the death of several of their children, their joy at Charles’ successes, and the loneliness Emma experienced after Charles’ death.

Critical evaluation:
The author concentrates on the Darwins’ personal life, intertwining Charles’ scientific works with his family life, and the conflict created by the deep religious beliefs held by his wife, Emma. There are eight pages of black and white photos including pictures of the family and Darwin’s marriage pros and cons list. The pictures offer information that adds depth to the text. A family tree, source notes, and a selected bibliography are included. The table of contents and index are well constructed, adding to the book’s reader-friendly design. Kudos to Heiligman’s talents as a writer. What might have been a dry biography comes warmly alive, encouraging the reader to discover Darwin’s life. The chapters are relatively short. The writing technique provides the feel of a novel rather than a work of nonfiction. Readers looking for an introduction or explanation of Darwin’s theories will not find it in this book. They will find an interesting biography concentrating on his life, revealing conflicting thoughts he dealt with during his journey of scientific discovery. The book’s attractive design gives it a Victorian look. Each chapter begins with a quote from a primary source. Even those who view biographies as a chore to read will enjoy this book.

Reader’s annotation:
Charles and Emma Darwin had a long and loving marriage with one large obstacle, she was deeply religious and he was agnostic. The book frames his revolutionary ideas within the context of his marriage and Victorian England.

Author information:
Grew up in Allentown, Pennsylvania
Attended Brown University, majoring in Religious Studies
Discovered she enjoyed writing for children when working for Scholastic News Explorer magazine
Has published more than 26 books, most for younger readers
Writes both fiction and nonfiction
Enjoys researching
Favorite book is Charlotte's Web by E.B. White
Says the most difficult thing about being a writer is being rejected
Married – with two young adult sons
Maintains a chatty and informative blog http://deborah18.livejournal.com/

Genre:
Biography

Curriculum ties:
Biology studies
Religious studies
Social studies

Booktalking ideas:
Charles Darwin a revolutionary scientist, loving husband, and a loving husband who allowed his children to play in his study.

Emma Darwin, Charles’ wife, feared that her husband would not achieve life after death because he was agnostic.

Discover the deep intellectual ties between the Darwins that bound them and guided Charles’ research.

Reading level/Interest age:
Middle school/high school

Additional books by author:
Holidays Around the World Series (10 books) published by National Geographic
Earthquakes published by Scholastic
From Caterpillar to Butterfly
and many more

Challenge issues:
Darwinism
Deal with challenge by having a challenge policy in place, selection policy in place (ALA policies). Meet with library administration if necessary. Provide positive review(s) from professional publications.

Why this work is included in Peach's Picks:
During 2009 the publishing world celebrated Charles Darwin’s 200th birthday with the publication of many books about Darwin and his work. This book is a National Book Award finalist, Michael L. Printz Honor Book, and received the YALSA excellence in nonfiction award. The book also received starred reviews in Publishers Weekly, Horn Book, School Library Journal, Booklist, and The Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books. It receives five peaches because it is an engaging biography that meets most school’s curriculum needs.

Amazon link:
http://www.amazon.com/Charles-Emma-Darwins-Leap-Faith/dp/0805087214/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1271216396&sr=1-1

References:
Deborah Heiligman. (2010). “About me”. Deborah Heiligman, author. Retrieved March 15, 2010, from http://www.deborahheiligman.com/

Part Asian, 100% Hapa

Peach's Picks Rating


Title:
Part Asian, 100% Hapa

Author:
Kip Fulbeck

Illustrator:
Kip Fulbeck

ISBN-13:
978-0-8118-4959-3

Publisher:
San Francisco: Chronicle Books

Copyright:
2006

Length:
262 pages

Plot summary:
A stunning photographic journal created by Kip Fulbeck with a foreword by Sean Lennon (yes, son of Yoko Ono and John Lennon) allows the reader to see the world through the eyes of people who consider themselves Hapa - multiethnic backgrounds, mixed racial heritage with partial roots in Asian and /or Pacific Islander ancestry. Mr. Fulbeck photographed hundreds of men, women, and children ranging in ages from the very young to mature adults. These photographs are head shots from the shoulders up. The subjects wear no visible clothing on their shoulders and no head coverings. A few subjects have visible tattoos. The people stare straight into the camera, some smiling and others simply looking out into the world. The photographs are displayed in color on a white background. Nothing distracts from the subject’s face and demeanor. The picture is on the right page and on the left page is written the subjects ethnic background as they self-identify and an autobiographical entry. It is a celebration of people and their multi-cultural backgrounds.

Readers Annotation:
Are you African-American? Oh, you’re Asian…now I can tell by your eyes.

Critical Evaluation:
This book is sure to be a winner with all secondary students and is an excellent browsing book. It is a fascinating look into identity, especially because so many people claim multiple international ethnicities, but find them difficult to describe. Mr. Fulbeck creates an urgency in his narrative and photographs that seems as though he is trying to prove that people with a mixed Asian background are not recognized and appreciated. He strives to let impress upon readers the disenfranchisement of people who have ethnicities other than Western European. The “Introduction “section of the book located in the front before the foreword, appears to be heartfelt, but skims the surface of Fulbeck’s experience. Sean Lennon’s “Foreword” is also heartfelt, but superficial. The photographs and autobiographical entries are really the meat of the book and develop the concept of portraying Hapa people. Even though the author “hits the reader over the head” in his narrative with the importance of recognizing those of Hapa descent, the photographs shine through as intriguing and intimate.

Author information:
Teaches at University of California, Santa Barbara, Department of Art
Received a “Distinguished Teaching Award” from UCSB
Filmmaker and director of short films including: Banana Split, Some Questions for 28 Kisses, and Lilo & Me
Artistic work includes videos, photography, and slam poetry
Interests include playing guitar and surfing
Grew up in Southern California
Attended UCLA, Dartmouth College, and UCSD where he earned his MFA
Considers himself Hapa – Caucasian father and Asian mother
Married - with one young child

Genre:
Nonfiction

Curriculum ties:
The book can be used in human development curricula to create discussion about identity and tolerance. It can also be used in classes when discussing diversity. Photography and art classes will find the book valuable when studying layout and design.

Booktalking ideas:
Have you ever been teased for looking different than your classmates?
What does multi-racial mean? Who is multi-racial?
Portrait photographers can use this book as a reference.
Read this book and look into the souls of people.

Interest age:
High school

Additional books by author:
Permanence: Tattoo Portraits
Mixed: Portraits of Multiracial Kids

Challenge issues:
Some references to sexuality
Deal with challenge by having a challenge policy in place, selection policy in place (ALA policies). Meet with library administration if necessary. Provide positive review(s) from professional publications.

Why this work is included in Peach's Picks:
The author visited the school where I work and presented an assembly to the secondary students. He also presented a separate assembly for teachers. At these events he passionately discussed the book and its origins. Both the students and the faculty were intrigued by him and his book. It is a good match for our collection and to share with others through Peach's Picks. Also, it received a positive review in Booklist, April 15, 2006. The book receives four peaches because of its high interest with regards to self-identify and discovering heritage. The didactic “Acknowledgement” keeps it from receiving five peaches.

Amazon link:
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=100%25+ahppa

References:
Fulbeck, K., (2006). Part Asian, 100% Hapa. San Francisco: Chronicle Books.

“Kip Fulbeck”. (2010). Wikipedia. Retrieved March 15, 2010, from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kip_Fulbeck