Heroes for Civil Rights by David A. Adler

Illustrated by Bill Farnsworth. This picture book is a collective biography of thirteen civil rights leaders. Each profile is one page accompanied by a portrait of the leader(s). The heroes include familiar and not so familiar names. The Little Rock Nine and the Greensboro Four are also included. End pages include a chronology of events between 1953 and 1968. An excellent overview of the Civil Rights movement written in a way that will help children understand this tragic period. A nice addition for social studies / civil rights units. Grade 3- 8.

Becoming Billie Holiday by Carole Boston Weatherford

Illustrated by Floyd Cooper. Weatherford and Cooper have combined their talents in a fascinating book about the life of Billie Holiday. The singer's life is told through 100 narrative poems that describe her life from birth until age 25. Born out of wedlock, her early years included rape, prostitution, drugs and more. The writing is strong and the powerful illustrations provide a feel for the times. The end pages list brief biographies of other musicians, a bibliography and a list of recordings. It is easy to see why this title won so many awards (CSK Honor, ALA's Best Books for YA's, etc). The mature content would make it appropriate for grade 8 and up so we need to discuss whether or not it is appropriate for our K-8 list. Your thoughts?

Boogie Knights by Lisa Wheeler

Illustrated by Mark Siegel. This is an engaging picture book about monsters pouring into a castle after midnight for the Madcap Monster Ball. The whimsical pictures accompany clever text such as "werewolves hustle, serpents samba, and wicked witches do the waltz." Meanwhile, the sleeping knights (brothers) who were snoozing start waking up one by one and go down to join the festivities. In the end, the knights close their "peepers" and dream of next year's monster's ball. Children will want to hear this title over and over again. It would be a terrific read aloud at Halloween. Grades K-2.

Wild Tracks! A Guide to Nature's Footprints by Jim Arnosky

Arnosky shows a variety of animals (domestic and wild) making tracks in their natural habitats. He features dozens of animal footprints, several of which are life-size. As students read about the tracks, they also learn more about the animals themselves. For example, "..small animals must feed daily, sometimes hourly, depending on the availability of food and the absence of danger." The book ends with reptile & bird tracks. The text is very readable and the accompanying pictures are beautifully done. This ALA Notable title is an excellent science resource that would interest students in grades 2 - 8.

Bird by Zetta Elliott

Illustrated ty Shadra Strickland.
A powerful picture book about sibling relationships, addiction, and loss. Bird, a young African American boy, is nicknamed by his grandad who recently passed away. He adores his older brother who becomes a drug addict and is banned from their house after stealing from the family. Bird struggles with his brother's eventual death but finds comfort through his art work and the help of his grandfather's friend, Uncle Son. The tale is a sad one but the ending is optimisitic. Uncle Son talks about the death of Marcus, Bird's brother, and compares it to when slaves died, "...when the body broke, the spirit went free..." I would use this with grades 3 and up due to the subject matter. It would be especially helpful for children who face addiction issues in their homes.

Wave by Suzy Lee

This beautiful wordless picture book tells the story of a little girl's day at the beach. The illustrations are done in two shades of watercolor - gray and blue, which makes the action of the waves really stand out. The young girl chases the waves, splashes in them and runs from them while seagulls fly overhead. This title would be great to use with young children as a discussion starter. It could also be used in a writing activity with older kids.

A Couple of Boys Have the Best Week Ever by Marla Freeze

This is an hysterical tale about two boys, James and Eamon, who go to nature camp together. They stay at Eamon's grandparents house at night where the well-meaning grandparents try to interest them in educational activities. However, the boys will have none of it and spend their time at the beach or playing video games. Finally, on the last night they surprise the grandparents with a nature activity of their own. The book is full of delightful illustrations that kids will love. There is even a seashell activity on the end dust jacket flap. This tale of friendship and vacation would be a great read aloud for students before school gets out for the summer.

One Hen : How One Samll Loan Made a Big Difference by Katie Smith Milway, illustrated by Eugenie Fernandes

Micro-lending is explained in this easy-to-follow story based on a real person from Ghana. Kojo uses a small amount of money from a village loan to invest in a hen.He sells the eggs to buy more chickens, then finances his education, becomes a chicken farmer, employs many people,and helps enrich his country. The bright whimsical illustrations all include African scenes and chickens of some sort. One hen is even dressed up and selling produce at the village market. In addition to the story narrative, there is an incremental text with each illustration: "This is the loan that Kojo gets...This is the farm that Kojo builds...This is the town that grows..." Easy enough for young children to follow, this book can also be used with middle schoolers. There is a section on the "real Kojo" plus information on what the reader can do to help and an excellent glossary.Great for 7th grade social studies.

She Touched the World: Laura Bridgman, Deaf-Blind Pioneer by Sally Hobart Alexander and Robert Alexander

Fifty years before Helen Keller, there was Laura Bridgman. She lost her hearing, eyesight, and most of her senses of taste and smell, to scarlet fever. An exceptionally bright child, Laura was taken at age seven to the Perkins School for the Blind, where she became the student of Samuel Gridley Howe. She learned to read raised letters (not Braille) and to understand and to "speak" language through finger spelling. Later in her life she was Annie Sullivan's teacher. This excellent biography will lead students to a better understanding of the deaf-blind and their accomplishments. The author herself is blind and somewhat hearing-impaired. Bridgman's story is told in a lively, readable style and is heavily illustrated with photographs and period illustrations. An index, bibliography, notes, and websites are included. Highly recommended for middle school. It can easily be paired with "Helen's Eyes."

George Washington Carver by Tonya Bolden

Published in association with The Field Museum in Chicago by Abrams. This is a picture book biography that is definitely middle grades in level. Excellent, clear discussion of the specifics of Carver's research and aims without talking down to the child audience. Lots of primary source illustrations and photographs, including reproductions of Carver's paintings made with his own vegetable dye paints. Has very neat end papers with floral designs.

Whaam! The Art & Life of Roy Lichtenstein by Susan Goldman Rubin

Fantastic picture book biography of Roy Lichtenstein. The book begins with the two possible stories that led to his immersion in the pop art movement. It contains great biographical information interspersed with a large number and variety of Lichtenstein's work that spans his career. There are also works (identified) done by a number of other famous artists of the time. It explains his technique and how it developed over time and shows how his work grew and changed over his life. The book contains a glossary of art terms and names. There is also a very complete notes section, references a list of museums and other public places to find Lichtenstein's work and an index. This may appeal to some of the same lovable dweebs that like the Creators of Superman. Great for upper elementary art lovers and on through ms and hs. It would be a great resource for art teachers.

Masterpiece by Elise Broach

Eleven year old James lives with his mom and his stepdad. His mother’s career seems to be a higher priority than her son’s happiness. This is evidenced by the birthday party she throws for him with guests he does not know but who might be future business connections. His dad, who appears to be more sincere, stops by later with a gift for James. James politely acknowledges the pen and ink set that his dad brought him, but James doesn’t really feel any passion for drawing. Meanwhile, the family of crickets who live in James’ apartment notice the lousy birthday and decide to do something nice for James. They send their son Marvin (whom they sometimes overprotect and smother with attention) to James’ room with a gift. However, when Marvin gets to the room he discovers the pen and ink set and he decides to draw a present for James. Later James’ mother discovers the streetscape that Marvin drew and assumes that James drew it. James doesn’t deny this and before he realizes how fast things can get out of control, he gets wrapped up in a plot to catch an art thief in the Metropolitan Museum of Art. It turns out that Marvin’s style is remarkably similar to that of Renaissance artist Albrecht Dürer.
Children who enjoy The Cricket in Times Square will enjoy the unlikely friendship between James and Marvin. Chasing Vermeer fans will be intrigued by the twists and turns of this suspenseful art forgery caper. I booktalked this is October and it continues to be a popular request. Recommended for grades 3-6

Too Many Toys by David Shannon

Spencer, like so many of today's children, has too many toys. He and his mother argue over what should be disposed of, with amusing results. The end, while not at all original, is just right, as Spencer finds that the box the discarded toys were stored in is the best toy of all. Brightly colored illustrations accompany the story. This is another book I tried out on my grandchildren. The comment after I finished reading it was, "Read it again!" A good read-aloud for K-2.

A Visitor for Bear by Bonny Becker, illustrated by Kady MacDonald Denton

A very large and unfriendly bear tries to discourage a clever mouse from visiting him. Despite locks and boarded-over windows, mouse continues to show up in various places in bear's house. Mouse finally wins bear over, and bear learns the value of friendship. This book was read aloud on NPR by Daniel Pinkwater, who thought it delightful. So do I and so do my granddaughters, ages 2 and 4. Good for reading aloud.

Afghan Dreams:Young Voices of Afghanistan by Tony O'Brien and Mike Sullivan

Photographs by Tony O/Brien. This is a beautiful photo journal of children in Afghanistan who have been affected by the ongoing war. Some have lost family members, been injured themselves, had to drop out of school and more. Two children resorted to pick pocketing to survive. The book is divided into children from Kabul and children from the countryside. The authors present the childrens' stories in their own words with an accompanying photograph of each child. This book is very timely and it will enable upper elementary - high school students an opportunity to see what life is really like for children in a war-torn, impoverished country like Afghanistan.

Smiles to Go by Jerry Spinelli

Will Tuppence is a sensible kid who is good at science and has an average social life. He also has a loud-mouthed little 5-year old sister, Tabby, whom he does his very best to avoid. But when he learns that scientists have recorded the first instance of proton decay, his logical mind goes awry contemplating the implications. If he can't even trust in the permanence of atoms, how is he supposed to manage the more tangible but no less overwhelming obstacles in his life? When he catches his two best friends Mi-Su and BT kissing, his confusion skyrockets. Does he like Mi-Su himself? There is also the small matter of defending his local chess title while trying to plan the perfect time to kiss Mi-Su. A tragic accident helps Will understand that life and first kisses can't always be scheduled, and sometimes its better that way. The story ultimately hinges on Tabby, and Will's relationship with her. Will's teenage insecurities, overanalyzing, and mood swings are entirely believable, and readers empathize fully with him while willing him to step outside himself and look around at what he has. The narrative is fast moving and often funny. Short sentences and brief chapters make it a good pickfor reluctant readers.

Colonial Voices, Hear Them Speak by Kay Winters

Illustrated by Larry Day. This hitorical nonfiction title is set in Boston on the day of the Boston Tea Party. Ethan, the errand boy's day begins at 5:30 a.m. and ends aboard the British tea ships where he helps "ax the lids, spill the tea, and heave the heavy chests." Each two page illustrated spread offers further insight into the day's events as told by the printer, the shoemaker, the tavern keeper, the wigmaker, the blacksmith's slave, the silversmith's apprentice, and more. The illustrations offer rich details that enhance the historical accounts told from varying viewpoints (loyalist, patriot, slave, Native American). An excellent social studies title for grades 4-8.

Buster Goes to Cowboy Camp by Denise Fleming

Fleming has written another clever tale that will be a home-run during storytimes. Buster, the dog has to go to doggie cowboy camp when his owner, Brown Shoes goes on vacation. Children will relate to his apprehension about spending the night away / going to camp. The delightful plot is brought to life with Fleming's signature collage / pulp illustrations. The picture book has brief chapters with headings such as Homesick, Roundup, and Buckaroo Ball. There is even a glossary of cowpoke words such as bandanna and chuck wagon. This title will work well with K-2 students in school and public libraries.

Maybe a Bear Ate It! by Robie H. Harris, illustrated by Michael Emberley

The main character in this story (a dog? a cat? a critter...)is reading in bed when he dozes off. Suddenly his book is gone, nowhere to be found. "Maybe a bear ate it." Other possiblities ensue involving a rhino, a bat, a shark,and an elephant. The book is finally unearthed, of course, right where it was put down, under the bed covers. The illustrations are hilarious, especially the one of the fierce bear devouring the book with a fork. Anyone who has ever misplaced a favorite book will immediately relate to this clever story. It will be great for reading aloud. Grades K-2.

All Stations! Distress! : April 15, 1912: The Day the Titanic Sank by Don Brown

One can never have enough Titanic books, and this one is a terrific addition. It is an illustrated account of the sinking of the ship, told in a simple yet suspenseful way. It brings to life the confusion and chaos surrounding the disaster. Sketch-like watercolor paintings capture some of the action-packed events. A child is hurled overboard into the waiting arms of a crew member on a lifeboat. A woman is saved from plunging into the sea when a sailor grabs her ankle.Third class passengers watch mournfully as partially filled lifeboats pull away without them. The book is well done and the topic hard to resist.Recommended for grades 4-6,older for readers who need easier materials.

What the World Eats, photographed by Peter Menzel, written by Faith D'Aluisio

You will learn here what people in many parts of the world eat, but you will learn much more as well. The book is divided into chapters, lavishly illustrated with color photographs, each of which begins with a picture of a family surrounded by a week's worth of groceries. There is a list of the foods and beverages consumed during the week, including the cost. A map showing the country represented in relation to its region,country facts,and a easy-to-read narrative about the family complete the chapter. Some families provided recipes. The text is rich with cultural information. Kids will like the "ick" factor. Pictures of street food show silkworm pupae, pig intestines, and spit-roasted guinea pig, complete with head and legs.A recipe for seal stew is printed opposite a picture of two children dragging home a freshly killed seal. This book will be fun to use with middle school social studies classes. One fact becomes very clear: the richer the country, the more fast food its people consume, meaning more problems with obesity.

Show & Tell : Exploring the Fine Art of Children's Book Illustration by Dilys Evans

While this is not exactly a children's book, it is recommended for grades 7 and up in SLJ's Best Books of 2008. A handsome, well-designed volume, it details the life and works of twelve well-known children's book illustrators. The illustrations in picture books are described as a form of fine art "worthy of celebration and recognition." The author has not tried to create an exclusive "best-of" list but rather to offer a wide spectrum of styles representing excellence in both art and storytelling. There are many well-chosen examples of each artist's work. This book will send you straight to the stacks to read and appreciate anew the art of the picture book. It could be useful to art teachers and to language arts teachers who use picture books as a teaching tool for older kids. Or it can just be read for pure pleasure.

The Juvie Three by Gordon Korman

Gecko drove the getaway car.
Terance ran with the worst gang in Chicago.
Arjay killed someone.
All three of these boys are serving time in different detention centers until they get a second chance. Douglas Healy, a former juvenile delinquent himself, gets a federal grant to run an experimental halfway house in New York City where he hopes to make a difference in these three lives. Things are going well until one night Healy is accidentally knocked unconscious while breaking up a scuffle between the boys. Terrified of the consequences, the three boys drop him off at the hospital and run away. Healy awakens and has no memory of them or the halfway house project. Afraid of being sent back to their original detention centers, the three boys scheme to continue on as if Healy were still there. They will go to school, do their community service, attend group therapy seessions, and act like model citizens until Healy's memory returns and he can resume his role as group leader. The book is funny and the teens seems real to life. It was an enjoyable book to read and one that boys should enjoy reading.

The Chronicles of Vladimir Tod - Ninth Grade Slays by Heather Brewer

The Chronicles of Vladimar Tod's second book of the series, NINTH GRADE SLAYS by Heather Brewer is rivoting! Whether students have read the first book (Eighth Grade Bites) in the series or not, NINTH GRADE SLAYS proves to be a very interesting read. Vlad is a teenager who has vampiric powers beyond his knowledge. As he goes on his quest of trying to fit in with other ninth grade students, Brewer takes the reader on a journey that will never be forgotten. Vlad is born of a human and it has been foretold that a vampire who is born of a woman will be ruler of all of the vampire world. Is Vlad the one to bring these words to fruition? Brewer writes a suspenseful tale chronicling the lives of average teenagers in ninth grade, dealing with adolescent issues, growing up and finding love. The only thing is that Vlad isn't the average teenager.

Found by Margaret Peterson Haddix

FOUND by Margaret Peterson Haddix is going to be one of this year's favorites. Adolescents (and adults) will really like the plot to this story. It's intriguing and mysterious. Like Haddix's Shadow Children series, this new series of books, The Missing, is going to be very popular among readers. FOUND is the first book in the series with the next book, Sent, coming out in August. The story begins with a plane that appears literally out of thin air, though this isn't the only mystery...the plane has 36 passengers - all toddlers. There was no pilot and no crew. Interested? I thought so. Once you start, you will not put the book down. It's just that good.

Madame President by Lane Smith

A romping imagination-filled examination of the duties of the President of the United States viewed through the eyes of a child. This book would be an excellent beginning point to a study of the presidency. It brings up a number of points on the list of presidental duties from photo-ops, to baby kissing, to the president's cabinet including secretary of agriculture (Mr. Potato Head) as well as some like Secretary of Soccer. Hail to the Chief has been included--but check out the modifications. Our president even has to contend with a disaster area (her own room). A great tongue-in-cheek introduction to a serious topic.

Helpful from a teacher perspective to view it this way--certainly explains some of the answers we get on test questions!

Wangari's Trees of Peace : A True Story from Africa by Jeanette Winter

For a slightly younger audience than "Planting the Trees of Peace" (previously nominated), this is another picture book about Nobel Peace Prize winner Wangari Maathai.Brightly colored acrylic paintings illustrate the simply worded biographical information. Maathai is a strong female role model and an example of how one person's actions can bring about major change. SLJ starred review. Highly recommended.

Ways to Live Forever by Sally Nicholls

Sam is eleven years old, has leukemia and is dying. He decides to write a book about his experience. At once extremely funny and tear-jerkingly sad, this book is a fantastic read for middle school students. Sam's older friend Felix is also dying and they are home-schooled together by Mrs. Willis who loves science and keeps the boys engaged in unique and inventive ways with learning and expanding their minds, even in this rather hopeless situation. The boys develop lists of things they want to do and Sam puts them in his book, along with his description of what happens as they pursue some of the things on the lists. NOT just a wimpy story about a Make-a-Wish kid, this robust and real tale will make you cry and laugh out loud.

Planting the Trees of Kenya: The Story of Wangara Maathai by Claire A. Nivola

This ALA Notable picture book tells the story of Wangara Maathai who won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2004 for her work with the Green Belt Movement in Kenya. The environmentalist changed the fate of Kenya's future by teaching Kenyans of all ages to plant trees on the country's barren land. Over 30 million trees have been planted since Maathai founded the movement. The watercolor pictures beautifully illustrate the story. The Author's Note at the end provides the history of the project and describes Wangari's role as an activitist in her country. A great read aloud for grades K-4, it really could be used with all ages to discuss the environment and the subject of activism.

Note - there is another 2008 picture book on this same subject, Wangari's Trees of Peace: A True Story from Africa that received positive reviews as well.

Manfish: A Story of Jacques Cousteau by Jennifer Berne, Ill. by Eric Puybaret

Manfish is a picture book biography that tells the story of Jacques Cousteau from birth to becoming one of the best-known oceanographers in the world. The book is illustrated with modern, rich acrylic paintings and uses a variety of formats throughout - from full page illustrations to panels, as well as a gatefold center that opens up to represent the deep sea.

This book could be used in a biography unit, but it also includes poetry and touches on environmentalism. There are also author's notes at the end that highlight Cousteau's films, books, and the Cousteau Society.

Overall, a gorgeous book!

Recommended for ages 4-8.

Johnny Appleseed: The Legend and the Truth by Jane Yolen

Illustrated by Jim Burke. Yolen presents an interesting mix of fact and fiction in this picture book biography. Parchment style inserts include a 4-5 line verse followed by The History of Chapman's life from birth to death. At the bottom of the pages are interesting facts such as what he wrote in an IOU note to his father / brother. The illustrations are realistic and the natural colors blend well with the text. One standout illustration shows large hands with tiny apple seeds in the palms. This would be an interesting read-aloud and it could be used across the curriculum with Grades 1-4.

Before John Was a Jazz Giant: A Song of John Coltrane by Carole Boston Weatherford

Illustrated by Sean Qualls. This is a lyrical story of John Coltrane's childhood (born in Hamlet, NC and grew up in High Point). Weatherford lists the sounds that influenced the jazz musician's childhood; "Daddy strumming the ukulele, and Mama cranking the phonograph." Quall's illustrations are a wonderful accompaniment. There is a lengthy Author's Note at the end along with a Selected Listening List and a bibliography for further reading. Could be used with upper elementary students in a jazz unit with Ella Fitzgerald (Pinkney), Duke Ellington (Pinkney), Jazz Baby (Weatherford), John Coltrane's Giant Steps (Raschka), and Jazz on a Saturday Night (Dillon).

A River of Words: The Story of William Carlos Williams by Jen Bryant

Illustrated by Melissa Sweet

Engaging colorful mixed media illustrations tell the story of a family doctor who practiced medicine in his hometown, Rutherford, NJ for over forty years. Carlos knew by age 10 that he loved to write poetry, but when he became a young adult he felt that he needed to make a good living. He liked the idea of helping people and supporting his family so he decided to become a doctor. He wondered if he could continue to write as a doctor. Throughout medical school and once he became a doctor he set aside time to continue his writing. He published numerous books of poetry. So talented was he that the Pulitzer Prize was awarded to him posthumously for his last poetry collection, Pictures from Brueghel. At the back of the book is an interesting timeline of Williams’ life presented alongside concurrent world events. Also included are an author’s note, an illustrator’s note and a “further reading” list.

Seven Miles to Freedom by Janet Halfmann

Illustrated by Duane Smith. Grades 3-5.

This picture book biography of Robert Smalls, a slave from South Carolina who later became a U. S. Congressman, focuses on his life as a young slave working as a ship's wheelman. Using his knowledge of navigation and the trust of the ship's officers, Smalls executed a plot to commandeer a Confederate ship secretly loaded with the black crew's families and cannons to the North. This factual account reads like a suspense story as Smalls risks the lives of all on board to gain their freedom. The impressionistic art enhances the story and will keep young readers involved. An afterword gives details of Smalls' life through his distinguished career in Congress. A bibliography is also included.

Otto's Orange Day by Frank Cammuso & Jay Lynch

Here is a cautionary tale about getting what you wish for and learning it is not all it's cracked up to be. Otto's story is told comic book style, with tons of text for beginning readers and lots of action to keep the story moving along.

This is a great book for reluctant or new readers.

Owly: Tiny Tales by Andy Runton

This short-story graphic novel collection has twelve OWLY episodes. Owly is a friendly, vegetarian owl with lots of animal friends. They have many adventures and solve lots of problems together. There is very little text in these stories, pictographs are used to express ideas, emotions, and actions. Readers will have to pay attention to get the rich stories unfolding in the panels.

Recommended for K-5th.

One Boy by Laura Vaccaro Seeger

This clever picture counting book is a quick read but can become an engaging study of words! Each page has a short phrase and a cut-out, turn the page and the reader is rewarded with a clever play on the original words, adding to the story and offering lots of opportunities for guessing how the next round may go. All the segments seem unconnected until the very end (which could be a good discussion as the story is being read).

Recommended as story-time for PK/TK-1st grade, as book creation motivation for 2nd-5th.

A Horse of Her Own by Annie Wedekind

For every girl that loved horses, this book is a winner. Jane loves to ride and loves Beau, a borrowed horse owned by the farm she rides with, even more. While preparing for a summertime advanced competition to show she has just as many skills as the wealthier girls that own their own horses, Jane loses Beau to a girl that buys him. Despite her sadness, she maintains her good nature and is offered a wild-card chance at the competition with a newer, less manageable horse. Throughout her summer's journey, Jane both observes and suffers the typical trials and tribulations associated with adolescent girls across varying socio-economic strata. As the title suggests, Jane's strongest desire is to have her own horse, a seemingly impossible dream to Jane, but not completely out of reach, as she learns.

A Song for Cambodia by Michelle Lord

Illustrated by Shino Arihara. The life of Arn Chorn-Pond, a survivor of the Khmer Rouge killing fields, is told in this picture book biography. Chorn-Pond survives a children's work camp through his skill at playing the khim, a traditional Cambodian musical instrument. The foreword and the afterword provide historical perspective as well as describing Chorn-Pond's accomplishments in human rights in Cambodia and the U.S. Because of the tragedy and violence in the story, I would recommend this multicultural title for Grades 4-6. It is a powerful tale of how music helped ease suffering during war. Good for social studies or music units.

The Origami Master by Nathaniel Lachenmeyer

Illustrated by Aki Sogabe. A warbler in a tree observes an origami master creating origami during the day. At night, the warbler flies inside and creates his own origami masterpieces. Shimi eventually captures the bird in order to learn its secrets. In the end, Shimi comes to realize the importance of freedom and friendship. The bright, vivid colors of the origami paper, trees, etc. will work well for read alouds. There is a "Make Your Own Origami Bird" activity at the end of the book. In addition to being a wonderful multicultural title, this picture book also contains a simple moral for children.

Blacker the Berry by Joyce Carol Thomas

This book of poetry is beautifully illustrated by Floyd Cooper. Told through the voices of African-American children, these twelve poems depict the skin colors of each individual (e.g. cranberry red for a child with Irish ancestors). It is easy to see why this is a CSK Author Honor book and a CSK Illustrator Award winner. Cooper's illustrations realistically portray the varied skin tones ending with a two-page spread of laughing, smiling children.

The final lines in the poem, Cranberry Red reinforce the theme of identity:

When we measure who we are
We don't leave anybody out
We count who we are
And add all who came before us

The way we figure it
We're just great

This title could be used to teach poetry, Black History month, identity, and acceptance.

Elephants of Africa by Gail Gibbons

This is another appealing kid-friendly nonfiction title by Gail Gibbons. A great combination of colorful illustrations and informative text. Children will enjoy facts such as "Elephants usually sleep standing up for about three to four hours a day." Includes a nice map of areas in Africa where elephants live. Gibbons provides environmental information at the end of the book.

Lincoln Shot: A President’s Life Remembered

This book stands tall literally (12x18 inches) as well as in quality. Designed to look like a yellowed memorial issue of the 19th century “National News” one year after the assassination, this account starts with the shooting and recovery of the assassins. Then it follows Lincoln’s life, starting with his youth, and continues with his marriage, his political career, and the Civil War. Bing’s illustrations are sure to engage young readers. They include period-style advertisements, wood-cut engravings and archival photographs. I am currently planning a 4/5th grade book club using some of the materials that we obtained from an ALA We the People Bookshelf grant relating to Lincoln and the theme “All Men are Created Equal.” This volume will add to what their teacher and I hope will be an authentic experience. I must note, however, that I will proceed with caution to help them understand that this realistic memorial should not be taken literally. One of their teacher’s requests for our study is to help his students understand the passage of time from the Civil War to segregation beacuse he feels that they do not yet think linearly. We’ll see what happens!

The Constitution of the United States by Chirstine Taylor-Butler

Did you know that the delegates from Virginia and Pennsylvania were the only ones to show up on the correct date for the Constitutional Convention? This work really takes a complicated subject and makes it very accesible to children. This book begins providing quick facts on the cover and continues to the back cover! It is engaging, full of pictures, illustrations, and sidebar facts. It contains a table of contents, a timeline, a statistics page, resources, a glossary, with bold words explained, places to visit, and websites. I especially liked the "Inside the Constitution" page--it really simplifies it down to what the Preamble and the Articles are all about in a quick and easy to understand sentence. A great resource for elementary school with enough odd facts that kids who love their nonfiction books may pick it up on their own--and actually read it! It is a slim volume that does not cover everything--but does get to the heart of the information in an inquiry-based way that will appeal to children. I nominate it for inclusion.

Recommended for upper elementary and especially 5th grade social studies.

11 Planets: A New View of the Solar System by David A. Aguilar

I would like to nominate this title as a wonderful addition to a rapidly changing area in our collections.

First there were 9, then there were 8, and now eleven? This stems from the 2006 changes in the way astronomers viewed our planetary system by dividing it into 3 categories: terrestrial; gas giants; and dwarfs. This is a tardy but thorough explanation of the planets and the solar system and really gets us up to speed on the planetary changes. It is very complete work beginning with an updated mnemonic device then visiting the sun and each of the 11 planets. It contains symbols, photographs, illustrations, orbital charts, Gods the planets were named after, and kid-friendly references and fast fact charts in the back. It also addressed comets, oort clouds, and other solar systems. I really liked the solar system in a bag project located in the back. Contains a table of contents, index, glossary and further exploration section with websites from some great sources. The auothor is the Director of Science Information at the Harvard Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics and past Director of the Fisk Planetarium Colorado.
A small quibble with his classical mythology in that he switches between Greek and Roman Gods in random order and mentioned the Sun as the mightiest of the Gods. Apollo was important for many reasons--but "mightiest" is incorrect. A small quibble in a slim volume with a lot of information that will stretch science dollars.

Recommended for upper elementary and middle school.

The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman

A young child barely escapes a vicious murderer and becomes a foster child, of sorts, of the graveyard. He becomes Nobody Owens, Bod for short, and lives a life unlike any other storybook boy. His life in the graveyard may surprise most readers; Gaiman does not paint a bleak, scary life for Bod. On the contrary, he is loved, protected, nurtured, and enriched in many ways. Also, he is not completely unfamiliar with regular life; at one point, he must attend school in the local community, which creates some interesting plot points, as well. As Bod grows, he learns he is still under threat from the murderer that sought him as a toddler. Bod must be brave, strong, and clever to deal with this most nefarious and undeserved enemy.

Gaiman's story is not the usual murder mystery; it is quickly paced without being rushed, and full of interesting characters and unusual situations. Fans of horror and mystery will devour this book. I recommend it to middle school.

Nation by Terry Pratchett

After a great wave hits, Mau is the only survivor of his island village. He is joined by other survivors, some islanders like him, and one very different girl from the west. His people, the Nation, had a very rich culture and oral tradition of history. As they do the work of surviving each day, Mau battles with the voices of his people's past and the new experiences brought on by exposure to other cultures. Along the way, Mau grows from a regular boy to a great man.

This book will appeal to readers that enjoy survival stories, folklore, history, and even science. The interweaving of folklore throughout the story adds an element of mysticism that makes the reader wonder if there is some fantasy happening, too.

I'd recommend this book to middle schoolers.

Palace of Mirrors by Margaret Peterson Haddix

Cecilia has believed all her life she is the true princess, although she is living in hiding. She awaits the day to replace the decoy when all her enemies are eliminated. But, is she really who she thinks she is?


Haddix does a good job of intertwining suspense with an innocent love story in this true princess tale. All girls who have ever dreamed of being a princess will enjoy this book. With a 14 year old heroin, this book is appropriate for 4-8 grades.

What to do About Alice by Barbara Kerley

Alice Roosevelt was a plucky girl and a fun character for a book! Why haven't we seen her before?
This tells the story of the less-than-proper oldest daughter of Teddy Roosevelt and her antics growing up in and around prestidential politics. When her father was elected to the presidency, she was 17 and soon took on an ambassador level assignment and traveled the world spreading good will and collecting gifts from all her admirers. Despite her dad's constant requests to tone down her antics, she remained one of his confidants and a stalwart in Washington until her death in her 80's.
Thorough author's note and sources at the end.

Crazy Like a Fox; A Simile Story by Loreen Leedy

A not-so-complex but clever story, told entirely in similies, of a fox and a lamb. Other animal friends are shown in the story spouting thier own similies that describe the action.
Fun, bright, child friendly illustrations add to the building action that culminates into a big birthday party for the lamb.

Clever grammar exercises and activties are included in the back.

Finding Home by Sandra Markle

A true story of a momma koala bear that survives a fire in her woods. She and her Joey wander off in search of food, finding a yummy tree in a residential backyard. The neighbors keep a safe distance but spend the next few days observing the momma and her search for food.

This is a charming story of koala love - both the momma and her Joey and humans with these adorable but wild animals. The story could be sensationalized but is told delicately. The illustrations are soft but show lots of emotion.

An author's note shares the details of the original events and shares what has happened to both the animals since.

A very timely tale with the recent Australian wildfires.

Bodies from the Ice : Melting Glaciers and the Recovery of the Past by James M. Deem

Here is gruesome science at its best. This book is certain to attract middle school boys. In recent years melting glaciers have exposed many frozen corpses, from the "iceman" discovered in 1991 in the Italian Alps to children sacrificed by the Incas to the Everest explorer George Mallory. Color photographs, maps, and illustrations are somewhat sensational, but the text calmly explains how archaeologists investigate each discovery. Students will also learn how glaciers move and how quickly they are retreating. There is even a section on how young people can help to slow down the process of global warming. Grades 4-8.

Chains by Laurie Halse Anderson

This story begins in May of 1776 when the mistress of two young slave girls dies. They were to be freed in her will, but a nefarious relative shows up and claims them. They travel to New York where the earliest days of the American Revolution play out while Isabel, the older girl, tries to make sense of their lives. Her younger sister is physiclly and mentally impaired. Her new owners are harsh and cruel. They are also Tories. Isabel agrees to spy on them for the Patriot cause and helps uncover an assassination plot against George Washington. The plight of slaves in the early days of our history is clearly exposed here. Many details of daily life are described. The initial defeats of the Patriot army and nightmarish conditions in the British-run prisons are also graphically detailed. The book is well written and does what all good historical fiction should: it puts meat on the factual bones of the past. Highly recommended for grades 6-8.

Shooting the Moon by Frances O'Roark Dowell

NC author.
Wonderful historical fiction from the military perspective on VietNam but through the eyes of Jamie whose brother TJ enlists in the Army. The Colonel is in charge of signing orders to send young men to VietNam. His daughter Jamie has never really thought about what that means because she is Army through and through, as is the Colonel, and that means you do things the Army way. Brother TJ sends back letters to the Colonel and his wife but sends Jamie a roll of unexposed film with no explanation. She learns how to develop film down at the base recreation center where she volunteers and discovers that her brother is sending her picture after picture of the moon.
A great work to use for a discussion of symbolism and for point of view. We often hear about how people outside the war protested but not about how the people fighting the war felt. Grades 6-8. Possibly younger.

Waiting for Normal by Leslie Connor.

Fiction for the 5th and 6th grade girls about real-life situations. This story is developed in an understated style of writing. Mommers ( main character Addie's mother) is not an outright abusive mother. She is a neglectful mother, spending her time watching TV and staying out all night, preparing a huge pot of soup and then forgetting to buy any groceries. Mommers has recently gotten divorced from Dwight who has custody of their two daughters (the Littles). Addie has to stay with Mommers because she is not Dwight's daughter. Dwight comes to visit and bring the girls to see their mother and to see Addie. Her grandfather also tries to help Addie but she hides the truth. Addie tries to live as though her mother is doing what she is supposed to do. Unfortunately, this has happened before and there are flashes of those past times in the story. Eventually Addie's trailer home catches fire and Mommers isn't there.
A very well-written story that does not play on your sympathies but stands on its own stalwart legs, just like Addie, trying to make a way for herself.

Well Witched by Frances HARDINGE

Take your British folktale about a wishing well as background peeking into a story set in modern times. Add in three adolescents who have worked out "the pecking order" and their individual roles in their group just to have imposed gifts from the witch in the well destroy the balance and threaten their world. The kids steal coins from the well and consequently are set the task of granting the wishes which go with the coins by the witch. Thoughtful musings among the characters about wishes and what people really want when they are wishing. Scary fantasy.

The Lincolns: a Scrapbook Look at Abraham and Mary. By Candace Fleming.

Gr 6 Up–
A good bit of research work went into this book. Although I don't really care for the type of layout used, it is true to the scrapbook concept. SLJ says: "Fleming presents side-by-side portraits of the famous first couple, combining telling anecdotes and large and small details to reveal aspects of the Lincolns’ personalities and temperaments. Primary sources and high-quality archival photos and reproductions add significantly..." I think the brown tones may put off some children who expect everything to be in living color and in photograph format. Some fascinating facts can be shared when book-talking this title. For research, I'm not sure how it will work, but I am about to find out as 8th grade begins their research papers for the year.

We are the Ship: The Story of Negro League Baseball by Kadir Nelson

Beautiful oil paintings, based on photographs from the Negro League Baseball Museum grace at least every other page of this collection of stories about “lost heroes” of our national game. Following a forward by Hank Aaron, cleverly labeled “Innings,” tell the story from Negro League’s beginnings in the 1920s through “Extra Innings,” the end of the Negro Leagues from 1946 until the League’s last day in 1960. Included in the back: lists of Negro Leaguers who made it to the Major Leagues and Negro Leaguers in the National Baseball Hall of Fame, a bibliography and filmography, numerous endnotes, and a 3-page index.

Secrets, Lies and My Sister Kate

This wonderful novel by Belinda Hollyer takes the reader on an adventure with two sisters, Mini and Kate. Mini and Kate are sisters and best friends. They have no secrets - or so Mini thought. Mini discovers a family secret that is not only explosive, but threatens the core of her relationship with her sister. Even worse is that Kate knew, but didn't tell Mini. When Kate disappears without a trace, Mini stops at nothing to find her. Kate always knew how to make things better, but now that she is gone, what will Mini do? Mini can't get answers from her parents and with Kate gone, she is forced to rely on her own instincts. If she finds her, will her family ever be whole again or will they be forever broken. This is a great coming of age novel. Recommended for grades 7-12.

Frogs by Nic Bishop

Fabulous photography and fun facts make this a superior science book for elementary and middle school students. Frogs as large as newborn babies, frogs you can see through, a frog that ate seventeen young cobras at one sitting: these are some of the creatures that Bishop brings us. The high resolution close-up portraits of many kinds of frogs are impossible to resist. An author's note explains how he was able to take these amazing pictures. Index and glossary included.

Wanda Gag : The Girl Who Lived to Draw by Deborah Kogan Ray

Here is a picture book biograpy for the younger set. In 1928 Wanda Gag created what some have called the first modern picture book, Millions of Cats. The story of her life is one of overcoming hardships. Although she experienced a happy childhood, her father died when she was fifteen, making it difficult for her to pursue her dream of drawing as a profession.How she accomplished that dream makes for an inspriring story. Every page of text has a quotation from Gag's diaries. The pictures are brightly colored and appealing. Grades 1-4.

Big Bad Bunny, by Franny Billingsley

This delightful story for very young children combines a scary story with the reassurance that mama will always be there. The story begins with a horrible bunny monster roaming the countryside. When mama mouse discovers that her youngest child is missing at bedtime, she combs the land until she finds her baby pretending to be the Big Bad Bunny. The baby declares that she isn't a baby anymore and demands some respects, but is very happy to go home with mama to her safe bed. The reader has to go back to the beginning illustrations to see if the clues are there, to realize that the Big Bad Bunny was wearing a costume. This will be a good one for lap reading or pre-school storytime. Children will want to "help" with the bunny's shouts after the first reading.

Tadpole Rex, by Kurt Cyrus

When a dinosaur's foot makes a puddle in prehistoric earth, a tadpole hatches and survives in that footprint puddle. Pictures show the dangers he faces, from carnivorous insects to larger hunters. As this tiny tadpole grows into a frog, he thinks of himself as a fierce creature, meeting triceratops, alamosauruses, and duckbills. The author's note tells that frogs lived 100 million years before these dinosaurs lived. He also warns that pollution and disappearing habitat may cause amphibians to follow the dinosaurs into extinction. This is for the dinosaur lover, the frog lover, and the child who wishes to be stronger than he is. The rhymes, the vivid language, and the sound effects make this book fun. The illustrations complement the text perfectly.

A Kitten Tale, by Eric Rohmann

Four kittens are waiting for their first snow through the other seasons. Three of them are timid, but the fourth kitten is excited and can't wait to see snow for the first time. The artwork is very simple, showing the fourth kitten always trying new things, while the others just sit back and watch. This book if for very young children who also may be afraid of new things.

I, Matthew Henson: Polar Explorer by Carole Boston Weatherford

This is a beautifully illustrated and well written account of Matthew Henson's life from the age of 13 when he began his first sailing adventure. It is told in the first person. Each page begins with a negative but completes with Henson overcoming that negative. For example; "I did not start as a cabin boy, climb to the ranks of an able-bodied seaman...to drift into humdrum jobs ashore. My dreams had sails." Facts about Henson's accomplishments such as learning to speak Inuit and carrying Peary to safety during during one of the polar attempts are woven into the text and speak to Henson's character. The story is a testament to Henson's determination to overcome prejudice and extreme hardships on his seven sttempts to reach the Notrth Pole. This would be an excellent book to use with character education. It is illustrated by Eric Velasquez and had starred reviews in Booklist, SLJ and Kirkus.

Rapunzel's Revenge by Shannon Hale

Rapunzel’s tale gets on a new twist as she emerges as a take-charge personality. After her “mom” locks her in her ghastly tower, she realizes her long hair can be very useful. She uses it to escape (no need of prince charming here, in fact, he happens along after she’s freed herself and she tricks him in to continuing to the empty tower!) and teams up with an annoying boy named Jack (of the beanstalk fame!) to seek revenge on her fake mom and release her real mom from a life of slavery.

It’s lots of fun and a powerful female lead. The graphic nature adds to the adventure, more of the rough and tumble fights and stuff happen in the illustrations, not in the text. Easy to follow graphics with distinction between the narrative description (in beige background rectangles) and the dialog (in white bubbles).

Boys of Steel: The Creators of Superman by Marc Tyler Nobleman; Illustrated by Ross MacDonald

When you read this book, I believe you will know just the hands into which you will put this story. It tells the tale of the two dweebish outcasts – Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster – whose fascination with pulp fiction and comic strips helped them escape from their Depression era teenage lives of unheated homes and missing parents. The two used their talents – Jerry’s imagination & writing and Joe’s imagination & drawing – to create a character that helped others through the end of the Great Depression, through a world war and continues to offer entertainment and escape for people today.

There is a long note at the end which offers facts about the legal battles between Siegel, Shuster and DC Comics, a bibliography at the end and a note that all dialogue between the two came from interviews.

The illustrations by Ross MacDonald are fabulous – done in the style of the era and genre.

As Good as Anybody: Martin Luther King, Jr. and Abraham Joshua Heschel’s Amazing March Toward Freedom by Richard Michelson; illustrated by Raul Colón

There are good read aloud picture books about the American Civil Rights movement and good read aloud picture books about the Holocaust, but this is the first title that I’ve seen that draws a simple but effective comparison between the two events for children.

A two part narrative first tells the story of King’s childhood experience with discrimination and then adulthood determination to challenge it, ending with his call for “…all God’s children” to join the movement. The story then moves to Herschel’s childhood in Europe and experience in Hitler’s Germany and Poland, his move to America and his answering of King’s call. The two marched together from Selma to Montgomery in 1965 and were apparently admirers of each other.

There is also a good lesson on self-esteem to be learned in this title - both men were raised by strong, loving fathers who instilled their sons with self-esteem. I really like the way the men's lives were shown to parallel - one father tells a son to look up instead of down when he walks, another tells his son to walk like a prince, not a peasant. Both end up following in their father's footsteps - King becomes a preacher like his father, Heschel a rabbi like his father.

A short note at the end tells of the events after the march, to King’s assassination and Heschel’s death a few years later. Raul Colón’s illustrations during the first half are warm & earth-toned, the second half cool & blue-toned – the illustrator is quoted in a book review as saying he did so to evoke the old blue-toned black & white newsreels from World War II.

Recommended for grades 2 - 5

Traction Man Meets Turbo Dog by Mini Grey

Traction Man must venture to the depths of the Evil Bin with "new toy" Turbo Dog to rescue his faithful sidekick Scrubbing Brush.

This book is witty, adventurous, and shows how great a child's imagination can be. I also think it could be used to introduce children to the comic book/graphic novel format. Overall a great read!

Recommended for ages 4-8.

Ain't Nothing But a Man: My Quest to Find the Real John Henry by Scott Reynolds Nelson with Marc Aronson

In addtion to telling a great story about a historical mystery, this book also offers a first class look into how a historian works. The author believes that he has found the real John Henry of the famous folk song in the person of a black prisoner who was sent to work for the C&O Railroad during Reconstruction. That story is compelling by itself, but the story of how the discoveries about John Henry were made is just as interesting. The book explains how the author tracked down elusive primary sources and then used them to connect the dots to make a coherent whole. Period photographs and illustrations, along with side notes, illuminate the text.Marc Aronson's contribution is very readable section called "How to be a Historian." An annotated bibliography, notes about sources, and an index are included. Black history and American history studies can be enhanced by this book. A creative music teacher could use it as well.Grades 4-8.

Pale Male: Citizen Hawk of New York City by Janet Schulman, illustrated by Meilo So

This non-fiction picture book details the story of the famed red-tailed hawk that nested with his mate near the top of a New York City apartment building. While many loved watching the birds, the apartment residents disliked their mess and removed the nest, thus setting off an international protest. The well-rendered watercolor paintings are a beautiful complement to this heart-warming story. Any unit on birds or the environment would benefit from the use of this title. Grades 3 and up.

House in the Night by Susan Marie Swanson, illustraed by Beth Krommes

This Caldecott winning title will have high appeal for pre-K and K-1 children. Black and white scratchboard illustrations are lighted with items in gold. A rhythmic, repetitive text helps make the dark seem friendly rather than threatening but also somewhat mystical. In each picture there are many small details to attract a child's attention. Especially charming are the cats.

Trout Are Made of Trees April Pulley Sayre

A very child-centered and eco-friendly way to explore the concept of a food web. In this case some campers set up camp by the edge of a stream and watch as leaves fall in the water and decompose and become food for other creatures. Of course those are eaten by bigger creatures. The book follows the life cycle of trout and points out that the trout eat the creatures that ate the creatures that ate the leaves. Therefore the trout are made of trees as are the people who eat the trout and the bears that also eat trout. Bears are not explained--but clearly bears eat fish. This really makes the concept easy to understand and accessible for kids. The title will encourage them to pick it up--just to see what it is about!

The collage illustrations really show what is happening and the joy experienced by the campers as they witness each stage of the events unfolding in the stream.

The acknowledgements make it clear that there were some experts involved in the making of this book. The back of the book contains a more detailed explanation of the trout life cycle. There is also a bibliography of print and electronic resources and a "Be a Stream Hero" section encouraging conservation and protection of our waterways. Recommended for K-3.

Helen’s Eyes: A Photobiography of Annie Sullivan, Helen Keller’s Teacher by Mefe Ferguson Delano

An abundance of well-placed and well documented sepia photographs help tell the story of “Miss Spitfire” in a way that is accessible to older elementary school students on up. Annie Sullivan’s life is chronicled, starting with her very early years at Tewksbury Almshouse continuing through her education at Perkins and on to her phenomenal teaching of and dedication to Helen Keller. There are numerous artifacts and illustrations that serve to further young students’ understanding of the topic and the time period, including a map of the various places they lived, a braillewiter, a Keller family teacup and a comic book, depicting Annie and Helen, circa 1945. Also included is a chronology of significant events in both Annie and Helen’s lives as well as a resource list of books, web sites, film, special collection and places to visit. A full page index references over 100 topics.
Additional note: The forward is written by Helen Keller’s great grand niece.

Sandy's Circus by Tanya Lee Stone illustrated by Boris Kulikov

In a year when musicians have been a popular topic for picture books, Tanya Lee Stone and Boris Kulikov have reached back to bring us the childhood and young adulthood of sculptor Alexander Calder. Focusing on Calder's amazing circus in a suitcase that charmed Paris, this creative pair has produced a delightfully engaging book. Stone's prose is somewhat overpowered by Kulikov's fascinating illustrations. His jumps in point of view and selective areas of color and black and white are a large part of the book's charm factors. With only a teasing view of the big mobiles on the last page, readers will have to consult other sources for Calder's more famous works. Sandy's Circus, though, will definitely make young readers curious to learn more about this remarkable artist. Recommended for ages 6 and up.

The Lindbergh Child: The atrocious kidnapping and murder of the infant son of America’s hero Col. Charles A. Lindbergh by Rick Geary

One of several “crimes of the century,” the kidnapping of Charles and Anne Morrow Lindbergh’s firstborn son on March 1, 1932, captivated the world and tugged at everyone’s heartstrings. Following the payment of a ransom, communication between the Lindbergh family’s go-between and the kidnappers ended. In May of that year, a sad discovery was made not far from the Lindbergh estate—the body of a child later identified as Charles, Jr. Police finally made an arrest more than a year later after carefully tracking ransom bills and linking the suspect, German immigrant Bruno Richard Hauptmann, with forensic evidence and corroborating witness identifications. The circus-like atmosphere of Hauptmann’s trial in Flemington, New Jersey ended in a guilty verdict and his eventual execution. Rick Geary’s graphic illustrations quickly give us background information on Lindbergh and his historic flight and then intimately acquaint us with the layout of the Lindbergh estate and the crime’s major characters. While definitely not for the reluctant reader, Geary’s graphic technique and unique viewpoint will fascinate readers with their own artistic inclinations or an interest in crime stories.
This book is part of a series called A Treasury of XXth Century Murder.

Recommended grade levels: 6-12

The Calder Game by Blue Balliett

The third book in this series finds the three friends in “The Button’s” seventh grade class and no longer students of the beloved Ms. Hussey. While they get to go on a field trip to see the fabulous retrospective exhibit of the work of sculptor, Alexander Calder at Chicago’s Museum of Contemporary Art, “The Button” allows no notebooks or pencils, takes Calder’s pentominoes from him, and dogs Tommy whom she has decided is a troublemaker. Seemingly adding to their misery is the fact that Calder will be leaving to go to England with his father for a time. After only a few days in the little town of Woodstock, both the boy Calder and a Calder sculpture mysteriously disappear. Chaperoned by Mrs. Sharpe, Tommy and Petra are brought to England to help Walter Pillay find his son. Tommy and Petra make peace with each other in order to find Calder and soon realize that the two disappearances are related and the townspeople of Woodstock are more involved than the police seem to realize. The discovery of a broken piece of one of Calder’s pentominoes leads to his rescue and the three friends are united as the Calder sculpture is returned to its place of honor in the town square.
Strengths: Balliett continues to give the reader very real children and adults in exciting plots with the added benefit of the author’s passion for art and artists thrown in. The author’s sense of place is also very strong evoking village life in England as well as the grandeur of Blenheim.

Recommended grade levels: 5-8

Black Box by Julie Schumacher

“I understood unhappiness when it came attached to something…But Dora’s unhappiness—or whatever it was—seemed to exist independently on its own. I pictured stunted, faceless creatures manufacturing it in a cave somewhere, like a toxic gas.” (Black box, p.59) Elena’s big sister Dora is depressed. As her condition worsens, Dora eventually attempts suicide and ends up being hospitalized. As the “steady Eddie” of the family, Elena shoulders the burden of helping her sister and trying to support her very distracted parents as well. While her parents have had the wisdom to set Elena up with a therapist, she receives immediate help from a neighbor boy, Jimmy, whom she knows only slightly. Elena slowly builds her trust of the therapist, but comes to rely more and more on her friendship with Jimmy as the family situation and Dora’s condition spiral out of her control. Schumacher has captured the jerky, quirky writing style of many young adolescents in her moving account of a teenager’s descent into mental illness and its toll on her family. Chapters are rarely longer than three or four pages, but have a strong, forward narrative line that makes Black box not only emotionally affecting, but also compelling. Grades 7-12.

After Toupac and D Foster by Jacqueline Woodson

Neeka and our narrator have been best friends since birth. A new girl shows up on their block calling herself “D” and blends into their friendship seamlessly. The girls call themselves “Three the Hard Way” and build a tight bond over a two year time frame. It’s 1994, the year Tupac Shakur is enduring legal issues and multiple physical attacks. D, and the rest of the neighborhood, relate wholeheartedly to Tupac’s music and their quotations frame their emotions throughout the story.When D’s real mom shows up, D must leave the tight knit community that has taken her in hope of starting a positive new life with her mom. Her departure parallels Tupac’s final attack and eventual death.Woodson weaves a beautifully simple story about friendship, family, community and how the power of can music can tie us all together.Recommended grade levels: 6-12

The Underneath by Kathi Appelt

1- A shape shifting 1000+ year old snake imprisoned in a clay jar far beneath the earth imagining finding her missing daughter when she is released.2- A bitter, scarred man set out to kill a giant alligator.3- A gentle make-shift family of a chained hound dog and a mama cat and her kittens who live carefully underneath the man’s ramshackle house.Three wildly different stories are artfully woven together like a tapestry to tell a gothic Southern tale about what love can do for the human spirit.This is an animal tale at heart that tugs at your heartstrings. The fantasy elements blend in as though your grandmother was exaggerating one of her favorite tales from long ago.In the beginning the chapters of each character are so short it’s difficult to keep the reader interested. However, as the mystery begins to unravel, the reader begins to imagine how each story could possibly be connected. Patience is a virtue while reading this yarn.

Brooklyn Bridge by Karen Hesse

Sixteen year old, Katniss Everdeen lives in Panem, the future North America that is made up of 12 districts ruled by the Capital. Each year on reaping day, two people from each district are picked for The Hunger Games, a televised survival game. When Katniss’ sister, Prim, is picked, Katniss volunteers to go in her place. The games are required viewing for the citizens of Paneam and they watch until there is only survivor. The book is violent, full of drama, and even a little romance. The story will keep readers on the edge of their seats and the ending will cause them to “hunger” for more.

Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

Sixteen year old, Katniss Everdeen lives in Panem, the future North America that is made up of 12 districts ruled by the Capital. Each year on reaping day, two people from each district are picked for The Hunger Games, a televised survival game. When Katniss’ sister, Prim, is picked, Katniss volunteers to go in her place. The games are required viewing for the citizens of Paneam and they watch until there is only ONE survivor. The book is violent, full of drama, and even a little romance. The story will keep readers on the edge of their seats and the ending will cause them to “hunger” for more.

original post by Cherie Wasserman - YA Lit group, Fall 08