The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens
Covey, S.,(1998). The 7 habits of highly effective teens. New York, NY:
Simon & Schuster. ISBN: 9780684856094
Plot Summary: Sean Covey has created the "ultimate teenage success guide." Designed as blueprint, he divides the book into sections. Part one: The set-up, Part two: The private victory, Part three: The public victory and Part four: Renewal.
Critical evaluation: This book is designed to keep teens engaged. It is filled with poems, quotes, opportunities for journaling, terrific illustrations and "baby steps" that get teens involved in the process instantly. The challenges that face teenagers are embraced one-by-one and the hope created by the instructions contained in this book is palpable.
Reader's annotation: This is a great book for kids of all ages - it's never too late to read it!
Author information: Covey is the author of Fourth Down and Life to Go, The 6 Most Important Decisions You’ll Ever Make, and the international bestseller The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens, which has sold over three million copies and was translated into more than fifteen languages. He is a popular speaker to youth and adult groups on topics such as leadership.
Genre: Self-help
Interest age: Teen
Curriculum ties: This book could be used in the Health/Physical Education program as it offers information on life skills.
Challenge issues: none
Book talking ideas: Setting goals and following them. What does it take to be a leader?
Why is it included in this list?: This book provides instruction and a guide for teens through the most emotionally and physically turbulent time in their lives.
Another Kind of Cowboy
Juby,S.,(2007). Another kind of cowboy. Toronto, ON: HarperCollins.
ISBN: 9780002007085
Plot summary: Alex and Cleo meet in the dressage arena and both need a new start. Cleo is looking for a change from boarding school, and maybe some romance, and Alex wants to shed his cowboy image for something else.
Critical evaluation:Cleo tells the story in her voice and tells Alex's story for him. It is this interesting choice of narrative style that gives this story its edge. Humour is sprinkled throughout this story.
Reader's annotation: The voice of Alex would have been nice to hear, still this story rings true.
Author information: Susan Juby is a Canadian author who has written several books for young adults. The Alice, I Think series is the most well-known.
Genre: Fiction
Interest age: 13+
Curriculum ties: none
Challenge issues: Burgeoning homosexuality is explored here.
Book talking ideas: Friendships can happen in the most unlikely places. Where is the strangest place that you have ever made a new friend?
Why is it included in the list? : This book was chosen for the Kirkus and ALA's Best Books for 2007 and it is a nicely-told story of a teen who is on the verge of coming out.
The Boy in the Striped Pajamas
Boyne, J.,(2007). The boy in the striped pajamas. London: Fickling.
ISBN: 9780385751537
Plot summary: This is the story of the Nazi Holocaust told through the innocent eyes of Bruno, the nine year old son of a German officer. He moves with his mother and sister to a place called "Out-with" where, after becoming bored inside the house, he meets a friend, Schmuel, who lives on the other side of a fence. They meet at the same spot every day and become close friends. When Bruno and his family are about to return to Berlin, he decides to try to help Schmuel find his father by putting on the same striped pajamas that Schmuel wears and sneaks under the fence. Once there, however, they are rounded up with a group of other prisoners. In the end, we are unsure of his fate.
Critical evaluation: Told in Bruno's voice, this very simply-written story is in stark contrast to other historical fiction that depicts the Holocaust. The childish voice of Bruno is juxtaposed with the horror that he unknowingly faces in an interesting way.
Reader's annotation: There has been a lot of criticism of this book because of the implausible circumstances created, but, if you can look past that to what the author is trying to say...
Author information: John Boyne is a full-time writer living in Dublin. He was writer-in-residence at the University of East Anglia in Creative Writing and spent many years working as a bookseller. This is his first book for young adults. The author lives in Dublin, Ireland.
Interest Age: 13+
Curriculum ties: This book could be used as an alternate reading assignment for those studying WWII. Its perspective would be an interesting one for high school students to ponder.
Challenge issues:The book's credibility has been challenged by some members of the Jewish community for its inaccurate portrayal of Auschwitz.
Book talking ideas: How far would you go for a friend?
Why is it included in the list?: This book received many mixed reviews - some feeling that it was too sugar-coated and not a true representation of events of the Nazi Holocaust, but, it is a novel. Because it is also told in the voice of a 9 year old boy who has led a sheltered existence, it offers a unique perspective.
Burned
Hopkins, E.,(2006). Burned. New York, NY: McElderry Books.
ISBN: 9781416903550
Plot Summary: Pattyn Von Stratten is being raised in a strict Mormon, and abusive, home. As she reaches adolescence, she begins to question her upbringing - and her family's ideas about sex, love and the place of women in society. After her father finds out that she is seeing someone behind his back, he sends her away to Nevada to live with her aunt. It is there that she learns about love and acceptance in a way that was never possible at home. She meets Ethan, and they fall in love. Unfortunately, at the end of the summer, she returns home to find that her father is still abusing his family. She and Ethan decide to leave together and tragedy strikes.
Critical Evaluation: This book is a very negative look at the Mormon church and its values. Pattyn's life is on a tragic course from the start and it seems that the ending is inevitable. Hopkins' verse is a rhythmic and soothing tune to this troubling subject matter.
Reader's annotation: Another thought-provoking book from this author, sprinkled with poetry with the troubling theme running underneath.
Author information:Ellen Hopkins is the author of several books in verse for a young adult audience.
Genre: Novel in verse
Interest age: 14+
Curriculum ties: none
Challenge issues: This book offers a scathing look at the Mormon church. The author has stated that there are extremists in every religion and that this story is about one such family. It is definitely a book for those 14+ who are able to think for themselves about religion and beliefs.
Book talking ideas: This is tricky subject matter. Teen sexuality as well as religion make it a difficult book to read aloud in a public school or library setting. It could be used in a book talk for older teens when thinking about personal freedom and how we react when it is taken away.
Why is it included in the list?: Ellen Hopkins is a brilliant writer and the power of her novels in verse makes them very readable. Burned was nominated for the ALA Best Books for YA and the National Book Award.
Chicken Soup for the Teenage Soul
Canfield, J.,(1997) Chicken soup for the teenage soul.New York, NY: Health
Communications. ISBN: 9781558749597
Plot summary:
This book is made up of several different short stories and excerpts written from personal experience. All the stories, however, have one thing in common, they are all stories of life, love, and learning. Inspirational stories by: Bill Cosby, Jennie Garth, Jennifer Love Hewitt, A.J. Langer, and many many more are included.
Critical evaluation:The nature of friendship and love; the importance of belief in the future; the value of respect for yourself and for others; and dealing with tough issues like death, suicide, and the loss of love are some of the examples of the topics covered in Chicken Soup for the Teenage Soul. The power comes from the authenticity of the voices of the contributors.Its success spawned several sequels.
Reader's annotation: You will be able to find out something about yourself by reading this book.
Author information:Jack Canfield and Mark Victor Hansen, the #1 New York Times and USA Today best-selling co-authors, are professional speakers who have dedicated their lives to enhancing the personal and professional development of others.
Genre: Self-help
Interest Age:Teens
Curriculum ties: none specifically
Challenge issues:none
Book talking ideas: Any of the ideas explored in the book could be used as a topic.
Why is it included in the list? :Everyone needs a little chicken soup! These stories are all included to teach, heal and inspire and it's a great read.
Darkwing
Oppel, K.,(2007). Darkwing. Toronto, ON: HarperCollins.ISBN:9781554680153
Plot summary: Set approximately 65 million years ago, Darkwing is the story of Dusk, the first bat. We meet Sylph, his sister, and his loving parents along with the other, sometimes judgemental members of the colony. Dusk is a misfit. He has only two claws instead of three, weak legs, unusually strong chest and shoulder muscles and the ability to see in the dark. His most embarrassing trait however, is the urge to flap his wings rather than to glide like the rest of the colony. The story of Dusk is set against a rapidly changing world of evolution and competition for survival with a suspenseful sequence of events and a surprising ending.
Critical evaluation: This story, allows the reader to feel the isolation that Dusk feels and the eventual triumph when he puts his fears aside and has the confidence to use his natural talents and abilities. An inspiring tale for teens and tweens, this book is a prequel to the Silverwing Trilogy.
Reader's annotation: It starts slow, but, once you get into it, you really start rooting for Dusk.
Author information: Kenneth Oppel is the author of many books for children and young adults. His Airborn trilogy is another popular group of books about a young protagonist who has countless adventures flying dirigibles.
Genre: Fiction
Interest Age: Teen/tween
Curriculum ties: Bats, growing up.
Challenge issues:none
Book talking ideas: This would be a good book to discuss within the theme of fathers and sons or feeling like you don't fit in.
Why is it included in the list? : Darkwing is an exciting and suspenseful story that has alot of great information about dinosaurs and the end of their era, as well as a great coming of age theme. Although it is great for younger readers, its vocabulary and themes make it good for teen readers too.
Forever
Blume, J.,(1975). Forever. New York, NY.: Simon & Schuster.
ISBN: 9781416953913
Plot Summary: Katherine is a high school senior who becomes involved with Michael. As their relationship unfolds, the issue of sex arises. Their friends Erica and Artie weigh in on the subject on several occasions and eventually, Katherine and Michael have sex to express their love and think that it will last “forever.” When they are separated for the summer, Katherine starts to think about the future with Michael and realizes that their physical act does not mean that they will be together forever. When she falls for a tennis coach, she has to ultimately break up with Michael.
Critical Evaluation: Forever was one of the first books to deal so descriptively with the issue of teen sexuality and birth control. Its thorough and thoughtful description of the bond between Katherine and Michael and their eventual break up, lets the reader live vicariously through them and to “try on” the idea of a sexual relationship.
Reader's annotation: A realistic look at someone's "first time."
Author Information: Judy Blume has written a number of books for young adults that allow the reader to experience teen life through the eyes of another. Their realistic portrayals are perfect for the young adult audience. Other great books by Blume include, Are you there God? It’s me Margaret, and Deenie.
Genre: Fiction
Interest Age: 14+
Challenge Issues: Teen sexuality and birth control are realistically depicted in this book, allowing teen readers to put themselves in the situation. This is a valuable learning tool for teens, especially as the story does not have a typical fairy tale ending. Some profanity is included, but again, this is a realistic portrayal and the language lends it authenticity.
Book talking ideas: A book talk about challenged books and why they are challenged could use this book as an example.
Why is this book on my list? An honest portrayal of teen sex and its aftermath, this realistic story features two responsible teens who engage in safe sex.
Selection Tools: ALA List of Most Challenged Books
Getting the Girl
Zusak, M.,(2004). Getting the girl. Queensland, AS: Push.
ISBN: 9780439389501
Plot summary:Cameron is always in his older brother's shadow. Ruben is popular with the girls and has loads of self-confidence, which Cameron lacks.Ruben has issues with fighting and when he and his latest girlfriend, Octavia have problems, she turns to Cameron and a romance blossoms. Cameron's sister encourages him to pursue a relationship with Octavia and he finds himself in the process.
Critical evaluation:The voice of Cameron is used to tell this tale of teen angst and romance. Interspersed throughout, the reader finds excerpts from Cameron's own poetry and writing. The tone is very believable and this story rings true for young adult readers.
Reader's annotation: It's hard when you feel invisible, especially when your older brother is so popular...
Author information:Zusak is the award-winning author of three other books for young adults: The Underdog, Fighting Ruben Wolfe, and I Am the Messenger, recipient of a 2006 Printz Honor for excellence in young adult literature. He lives in Sydney, Australia.
Genre: Fiction
Interest age: 14+
Curriculum ties: none
Challenge issues: There is some language, but it is necessary to the realistic tone of the story.The sexuality in the story makes this book appropriate for teens 14+.
Book talking ideas: This is a coming of age story that also features family dynamics and sibling relationships. Do you have any brothers or sisters? Do you get along?
Why is it on the list? : A great story of teen angst and romance, this one is particularly appealing to boys as it is told in a young male's voice.
Go Ask Alice
Sparks, B.,(1971) Go Ask Alice. New York, NY: Simon & Schuster.
ISBN: 9781416914631
Plot Summary: A story of troubled teen drug addict, this book follows the painful journey of the main character, whose name we never learn. Teen angst is described in detail through her relationships with her parents, friends and her crush, Roger. Body image, sexuality and drug use are explored in this gut-wrenching tale. The main character drops out of high school and leaves home and returns several times, all the while trying to remove herself from the culture of drug use, but, she seems perpetually drawn back into it. In the end, we are hopeful that she has finally been able to gain some self confidence and the ability to stay away from those she feels have been corrupting her, but, a happy ending is not to be.
Critical Evaluation: This book is written in the style of a diary of a teen drug user. Its author is left as Anonymous, seemingly in order to give the book a more authentic, or “everyman” feel . Although Go Ask Alice was originally promoted as non-fiction, Beatrice Sparks made media appearances after the publication of the book, presenting herself as its editor.
Reader's annotation: This book is gritty. It would make you think twice about trying drugs.
Author Information: Beatrice Sparks is a psychologist and Mormon youth counselor.
Genre: Fiction
Reading Level: 14+
Challenge Issues: Teen sexuality and drug use are graphically portrayed in this book. Its realism is what makes the story so powerful and the language and situations depicted would enable teen readers to picture themselves in the place of the diarist.
Book talking ideas: This book could be included in a book talk about drug use. It may be a little too graphic for younger teens.
Why is it included in my list? : I included it in my list because it is a portrayal of a teen girl told seemingly in her own voice. Although its authenticity may have been called into question because of its author and her desire to counsel youth on drug use, it is still a eye-opening read.
The Graveyard Book
Gaiman, N.,(2008). The graveyard book. New York, NY: HarperCollins
ISBN: 9780060530921
Plot Summary: This creepy story begins with the murder of an entire family, except a toddler, who miraculously escapes the murderer by crawling out of the house and into the local cemetery. Once there, he is protected by the “residents,” who look after and eventually raise him. They name him “Nobody” because he looks like nobody but himself. As the story progresses, the group of spirits who inhabit the graveyard become his family. Silas, the cemetery caretaker becomes his guardian, Mr. And Mrs. Owens take him into their home and raise him as their own, (they have been childless for 250 years!) and he befriends Scarlett Amber Perkins, a girl who lives near the cemetery. He grows up in this unique environment where he is relatively safe and secure, but there are some dangers that he must face on his own.
Critical evaluation: Each chapter is designed to be a short story in this book. As Bod grows up, we see snippets of his life, approximately 2 years apart, highlighted in the sections. The reader empathizes with him as he grows up in the cold and unforgiving atmosphere of the cemetery, but the macabre nature of the surroundings is balanced with the love and care of his spirit family and friends.
Reader's annotation: This is a bizarre story. Neil Gaiman would be an interesting guy to talk to!
Author information: Neil Gaiman is an English-born author of many novels and screenplays. He recently wrote the screenplays for Beowulf and another based on his novel, Coraline. His many accolades include: 3 Harvey Awards, the World Fantasy Award and most recently, the Newberry Medal and the HUGO Award for The Graveyard Book.
Genre: Fiction
Interest Age: 14+
Curriculum ties: none
Challenge issues: This book could be challenged in view of its violence, but, the entire story is based on the initial murder and the murderer’s pursuit of Bod. This book is best for ages 14+ and is not recommended for elementary school libraries.
Book talking ideas: A book talk could raise the question, “do you believe in ghosts?,” and teens could talk about their ideas on the subject. This book offers an alternative reality to most life-after-death scenarios and it could spawn some interesting discussion.
Why is it included in the list? : The Graveyard Book is the winner of the 2009 Newberry Medal as well as the 2009 HUGO Award and it is a wonderfully suspenseful read for teens.
Hatchet
Paulsen,G.,(2006). Hatchet.New York, NY: Aladdin.ISBN: 9781416936473
Plot summary: Hatchet is the story of a boy named Brian. On a trip to the Canadian oilfields to spend the summer with his dad, the pilot of the Cessna he is traveling in suffers a heart attack and dies. Brian must land the plane in the forest. Brian learns to exist in in this wilderness where he faces many dangers including hunger, animal attacks, and even a tornado. The worst part are the bugs that threaten to eat him alive!
Critical evlauation: This is a wonderful story that allows the reader to ask "what would I do if this happened to me?" - one of the best things that a young adult novel can do. Through Brian's eyes, we are able to think about how brave we could be if placed in the same situation. The second thread of the story involves Brian's feelings about his parents' divorce and the intertwining of the two themes leads Brian, and the reader, to a place of maturity and confidence.
Reader's annotation: I recommend this book for teens and tweens because its setting is very similar to where we live - especially the part about the bugs in the bush!
Author information:Gary Paulsen is the author of many books for children and teens, like Brian's Winter, a sequel to Hatchet.
Genre: Fiction
Interest Age: Teen/tween
Curriculum ties:none
Challenge issues: none
Book talking ideas: Picture yourself in the wilderness with only a hatchet....
Why is it included in the list? : This Newberry Award winner is a great book for teens and tweens. It allows them to be involved in Brian's adventure and to empathize with his circumstances - thereby to "try on" the idea of survival in the wilderness.
Hero
Rottman, S.L.,(1997). Hero. Toronto, ON: Penguin.ISBN: 9781561454273
Plot summary: Fifteen-year-old Sean is having a hard time. His parents divorced and his mother is an abusive alcoholic. Angry at the world, he gets himself suspended from school and in trouble with the law and eventually finds himself sentenced to community service on a farm. He can't seem to find his way in the farm world and he feels like giving up and taking more community service somewhere else, when the foal is born. Something inside of him changes as he learns to care for, and about, the young horse. Mr. Hassler, the farmer, becomes the role model he needs and Sean blossoms - with a few pitfalls along the way.
Critical evaluation: Told in Sean's voice, this story allows young readers to delve into his emotions with him - to feel his anger and hopelessness and eventual peace and contentment. Rottman has created a believable character and set of circumstances for the basis of this story.
Reader's annotation: Some of the metaphors are obvious in this book, but, it's still a great story - especially of you like horses.
Author information: This is the first novel for S.L. Rottman. Others have included Head above Water, Shadow of a Doubt and Slalom.
Genre: Fiction
Interest Age: 13+
Curriculum ties: none
Challenge issues:none
Book talking ideas:Who is someone you consider a hero? Why?
Why is it included in this list? :This book was selected as an ALA Best Book for Young Adults, and won many other awards. It depicts a young adult trying to find his way in the face of some difficult odds.
The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy
Adams, D.,(1979). The hitchhiker's guide to the galaxy. New York, NY:
Ballantine. ISBN: 9780330508117
Plot summary:Arthur Dent is facing the destruction of his house to make room for a new highway. Arthur's friend of many years, Ford Prefect (a secret alien), informs Arthur that Earth itself is about to end, as an alien race wishes to make an intergalactic highway and Earth is in its way. The novel then follows Arthur and Ford as they hitchhike their way onto the Heart Of Gold, the most advanced ship in the galaxy. We then meet Zaphod Beeblebrox, ex-hippie president of the galaxy and an old "friend" of Ford's, who has hijacked the ship. Also on board, they meet the Trillian, Zaphod's girlfriend, whom Arthur once had a thing for, and Marvin,a depressed robot. Arthur and Ford cruise the galaxy, searching for the question to the Ultimate Answer Of Life, the Universe, and Everything.This is the first in a series of five books.
Critical evaluation:
The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy is a science fiction comedy series created by Douglas Adams. Originally a radio comedy broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in 1978,it was later adapted to other formats. His quirky English humour is interspersed with the wild fantasy of aliens about to take over the Earth. Wildly scientific fantasy is set against the hippie mellowness of Beeblebrox in the telling of this tale.
Reader's annotation: Hilarious!
Author information:Douglas Adams came up with the idea for this book while travelling through Europe. This is the first of five books in the series.
Genre: Science-fiction
Interest age:13+
Curriculum ties:none
Challenge issues:none
Book talking ideas:How does the film version compare to the book?
Why is it included in the list? : This is a classic science-fiction novel that many teens will know from the film version.
Holes.
Sachar, L.,(1998). Holes. New York, NY: Dell.ISBN: 9780440414803
Plot summary:Stanley Yelnats is sent to a detention camp for a trumped-up charge- wrongfully convicted of stealing a pair of sneakers-in this amusing tale of a family curse that spans generations. Camp Green Lake is run by the Warden, who forces the boys to dig holes that are five feet deep and five feet across every day - seemingly to build character. As time goes on, Stanley stumbles across the truth of the holes, and makes some new friends along the way.
Critical evaluation:Sachar approaches the issue of fitting in and race and equality within Holes on several levels. The relationship of Stanley and Zero has a parallel in that of Kate and Sam from the historical portion of the story. Through Sachar's description we see that the issue of race should not enter a friendship.
Reader's annotation: There is a lot of humour in this story.
Author information: Louis Sachar is a lawyer who has written several books for children and young adults, like Bud, not Buddy and Out of the Dust.
Genre:Fiction
Interest Age: Teen/tween
Curriculum ties:none
Challenge issues:none
Book talking ideas:Do you think Camp Green Lake is a good punishment for kids who commit crimes?
Why is it included in the list? :Winner of the Newberry medal, and many other awards, this book is a staple for any young adult collection.The film, created by Disney in 2003, allows another telling of this humorous story.Although this story can be enjoyed by a younger audience, the dark humour and historical thread make it complex enough for teens.
Holly's Heart
Lewis, B.,(2008). Holly's Heart. Bloomington, MN: Bethany House.
ISBN: 9780310209225
Plot Summary: Holly`s Heart is a series of short novels. Each focuses on a different topic, like jealousy and friendship, a family move, and respect. Volumes 1, 2, and 3 offer Holly's perspective on school, family and relationships.
Critical Evaluation: These stories offer a Christian teen's perspective on the approach to everyday problems or situations in a teen's life. The stories are told in Holly's first person voice which makes them very relatable.
Reader's annotation: Lovely faith-based stories for a teen audience.
Author information: Beverly Lewis, raised in Pennsylvania Amish country, is a former schoolteacher, an accomplished musician, and an award-winning author of more than seventy books, many of which have appeared on bestseller lists.
Genre: Christian Fiction
Interest Age: 13+
Curriculum ties: none
Challenge issues: none
Book talking ideas: How does Holly's faith affect her decision-making?
Why is it in the list: Fiction for teens that offers a Christian perspective is not that easy to come by. These stories offer teen situations and problems with a Christian solution.
How I live now.
Rosoff, M.,(2004). How I live now. London: Puffin.ISBN: 9780553376050
Plot summary: Fifteen-year-old Daisy is sent from Manhattan to England to visit her aunt and cousins she’s never met: three boys near her age, and their little sister. Her aunt goes away on business soon after Daisy arrives. The next day bombs go off as London is attacked and occupied by an unnamed enemy.
As power fails, and systems fail, the farm becomes more isolated. Despite the war, it’s a kind of Eden, with no adults in charge and no rules, a place where Daisy’s uncanny bond with her cousins grows into something rare and extraordinary. But the war is everywhere, and Daisy and her cousins must lead each other into a world that is unknown in the scariest, most elemental way.
Reader's annotation: This story is almost science-fiction because of the unknown quantity of the war involved. It could be anytime or anywhere.
Critical evaluation: The first person narrative style of this book leads the reader into the thoughts of Daisy and enables them to live the events of the war and its aftermath. It is easy for the reader to relate to her and to the other characters and events described and become involved in the action. The humour included in the telling makes this a very believable and poignant story.
Author information: Rosoff is an American-born former advertising copywriter who now lives in England. She has written several books for young adults.
Genre: Fiction
Interest Age: Teen
Curriculum ties: While this story is about a war, not any war in history, it could be used as part of a discussion about wars in history.
Challenge issues: none
Book talking ideas: What would it be like if you had to take care of yourself all of a sudden? Do you think you would miss your parents?
Why is it included in this list? : How I Live Now won the Guardian Award for 2004 and the Printz and Branford Boase Awards in 2005.
The Kite Runner
Hosseini,K. (2003). The kite runner. New York, NY: Riverhead.
ISBN: 9780385660075
Plot summary: The Kite Runner tells the tale of Amir and his best friend Hassan - both from the Kabul area of Afghanistan. Hassan is the son of a servant in Amir's house and a gang of boys in their community think he is less than they are because of his class. The boys love flying and fighting their kites and there is heavy competition amongst the local boys to see who will win the big contest. Amir hopes to win the competition in order to win his father's favour. His father thinks Amir should spend more time in masculine pursuits rather than doing what he really loves - writing stories. Amir DOES win the kite fight, with Hassan's help, but when Hassan goes to retrieve the kite that Amir has won, the gang accosts him. When he won't give up the kite, he is raped by one of the older boys. Amir knows what has happened, but, in his effort to please his father, he says nothing. Soon after, Amir plants some of his possessions in Hassan's things and claims that he has stolen them so that Hassan and his father will have to leave. Amir has a hard time with his conscience. Events in Afghanistan force Amir and his father to leave for America, but Amir can never escape the sad past. Years pass,and eventually, he is offered a chance to make amends and he embarks on a course of events that will help the healing process.
Critical evaluation: This is a tragic coming of age story in which friendship, betrayal and the price of loyalty are set against the backdrop of war-ravaged Afghanistan. Amir's life, always affected by his terrible choice to betray Hassan, is told in his own voice, and it is through this personal account of the events that the reader comes to know him and to understand his struggles.
Reader's annotation: This book has been recreated as an excellent movie - highly recommended.
Author information:Hosseini was born in Afghanistan and moved to California in his teens. He earned his M.D. and began writing when he was involved in his term of residency. His second novel, A Thousand Splendid Suns, has also received critical acclaim.He has created the Khaled Hosseini Foundation to provide humanitarian assistance in Afghanistan.
Genre: Fiction
Curriculum ties: none
Challenge issues: The American Library Association reports that The Kite Runner is one of its most-challenged books of 2008, with multiple attempts to remove it from libraries due to "offensive language, sexually explicit, and unsuited to age group." This story is graphic in its portrayal of the events in Amir's youth because it has to be. The atmosphere and social customs in Afghanistan at the time are depicted accurately this novel provides a rare glimpse into the culture.
Book talking ideas: How is the culture in Afghanistan different from yours?
Why is it in this list? The Kite Runner spent over five years on the New York Times Best Seller List and has been translated into 42 different languages.
Laika
Abadzis,N.,(2007). Laika. New York, NY: First Second.ISBN: 9781596431010
Plot summary:Laika was the first space dog and the first animal to orbit the Earth and this is a fictional account of her adventures.We meet her as an abandoned puppy and follow her time at the Institute of Aviation Medicine. Her life is tied to that of several characters and she endears herself to them, especially her caretaker, Yelena, and their tales are intertwined as the story evolves. Many dogs were kept and used for space experiments and Laika meets the same fate as most.
Critical evaluation: This ultimately sad tale is enhanced by the graphic novel telling. Abadzis uses different techniques to emphasize different point of the story. Sometimes scenes will be black and white, like movie stills and other times they are huge two page spreads. Colours are vivid and the drawings sometimes roughly sketched to indicate tension or stress in the characters. The graphic novel is an excellent medium for the telling of this story.
Reader's annotation: Shocking treatment of animals - this is eye opening.
Author information: Nick Abadzis is a British cartoonist and graphic novelist.
Interest age: 13+
Genre: Graphic novel
Curriculum ties:none
Challenge issues:none
Book talking ideas:Animal cruelty is depicted and the touching story will evoke an emotional response in teen readers. Do you think the use of animals to further science is ok? Why or why not?
Why is it on this list? Laika won the Eisner Award for Best Publication for Teens in 2008 and it is listed in ALA's Best Graphic Novels for the same year.
The Landing
Ibbitson,J.,(2008). The landing. Toronto, ON: McClelland & Stewart.
ISBN 9781554532384
Plot summary: It is the summer of 1934, and Ben, at 15, is always working. Either he is slaving for little pay on his Uncle Henry's farm at the Landing,in the Muskoka District, or working as a handyman for the summer visitors who come from the cities. What he really loves is playing the violin, but he doesn't have much time to practice. He gets a new job, fixing up the cottage of Ruth Chapman, a 50-something widow, and they develop a friendship. She is also a music lover, and she introduces him to different composers and works. He even plays for some of her friends. All of this awakening makes Ben long to leave the Landing for the glamour and culture of the city. Unfortunately, a storm rolls in one night and tragedy strikes.
Critical evaulation: This beautifully-written coming of age story is set in a remote and beautiful area in the Province of Ontario. The "summer people" who visit the area each year are seen as a rude and demanding lot, but are a necessary evil for the residents' survival. Drawing a parallel with F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby, Ibbitson draws us into the desperation of Ben against the wealth and ease of Mrs. Chapman and clearly illustrates the hardship and difficulty of the Depression era.
Reader's annotation: This story is set in the Depression, but, it could happen anytime.
Author information:John Ibbitson is a Canadian writer and journalist. He currently writes on American politics and society for The Globe and Mail. He has written three books on Ontario and Canadian politics, Promised Land: Inside the Mike Harris Revolution (1997), Loyal No More: Ontario's Struggle for a Separate Destiny, and The Polite Revolution: Perfecting the Canadian Dream (McClelland & Stewart, 2005). His latest young-adult novel, "The Landing" was winner of the 2008 Governor General's Award for children's literature
Genre: Fiction
Interest Age: 13+
Curriculum ties: none
Challenge issues: none
Book talking ideas: What was the Depression? How did it affect arts and culture?
Why is it on the list? :This book is the winner of the Governor General's Award for Children's Literature for 2008 and it is a lovely and gentle telling of a touching coming of age tale.
Little Brother
Doctorow, C.(2008). Little Brother.New York, NY: Tor.ISBN: 9780765319852
Plot Summary: This is the story of Marcus Yallow, a high school student, and his friends in the aftermath of a terrorist attack on San Francisco. Following the incident, Marcus and a few of his friends are captured and held in a secret prison and interrogated. After several days, they are released, but one of their friends, Darryl, who was injured when they were arrested, was still missing. Marcus returns home and to school, but everything is different.He can't tell his parents what happened and paranoia abounds as he and thousands of like-minded youth become part of the Xnet, an alternative internet using X-boxes. The Department of Homeland Security takes over the city and Marcus and those like him who object to the removal of their freedoms stage peaceful protests through music and role playing games, but these are broken up by the DHS. In the midst of all of this terror, Marcus finds a girlfriend, falls in love, and has a hard time relating to his father. In the end, he tells his parents the truth about what happened to him and they help him tell his story to an investigative journalist. The story has an immediate effect on the city of San Fransisco and the results are better than Marcus could have hoped.
Critical Evaluation: This story, told in the voice of Marcus, is made very believable by its use of language and dialogue. The characters are wonderfully developed and the reader can see themself in the place of Marcus or Ange as they fight for their rights in the crazy aftermath of the terrorist act in their city. The description of technology is quite detailed, but, even a reader with a reasonable amount of exposure to computers and gaming will be able to appreciate the Xnet and the use of technology to spy on the activities of the citizens of San Francisco. The story really brings the point home about the liberties we all take for granted.
Reader's annotation: This is an awesome book that really gets you going if you are interested in human rights and justice.
Author Information: Cory Doctorow is the coeditor of Boing Boing and the former European director of the Electronic Frontier Foundation. He writes columns for Make, Information Week, the Guardian online and Locus.
Genre: Fiction
Interest Age: 13+
Curriculum Ties: Freedom, US Government, Terrorism
Challenge Issues: Some teen sexuality is included, but, the encounters described are realistic and necessary to the telling of the story. Those involved participate in safe sex.
Book talking ideas: I would include this book in a discussion about freedom or about the use of technology to keep us safe. In general, it is an excellent commentary about the effect that one person can have on a system if they are brave enough to put themself on the line for their beliefs.
Why is it included in my list? This is such a great book, I have recommended it to teens and adults that come into the library for its frank discussion of freedom and how easily it can be taken away. The technology used in the book is also very intriguing and very enjoyable.
Quote:
"Can one teenage hacker fight back against a government out of control? Maybe, but only if he's careful and very, very smart."
Lord of the Flies
Golding, W.,(1954). Lord of the Flies. London: Faber & Faber.
ISBN:9780571084838
Plot Summary: Golding has created a chilling tale of a group of English school boys who survive a plane crash on a deserted island. At first the boys cooperate and work together to find food and create shelter, but as time goes on, they become divided into two camps who are working against each other. Ralph and his sidekick Piggy attempt to organize the boys, but many would rather swim and play rather than work. Jack emerges as the leader of the other faction and the situation deteriorates quickly as one side begins plotting against the other.
Critical evaluation: This story uses a group of adolescent boys as a foil for an examination of human civilization vs. animal instinct. In the characters of Ralph and Piggy, we see civilization that is rapidly being taken over by the natural instincts being portrayed by Jack and his followers.
Reader's annotation: Particularly chilling because the characters are just children...
Author information: This was William Golding's first novel and it was not very popular until it became required in high schools and colleges in the 1960s. It was made into a film in 1963.
Genre: Fiction
Interest Age: 14+
Curriculum ties: none
Challenge issues: The harshness of the killing of Piggy and Simon by their peers could be a challenge point of this novel. Its stances on the already controversial subjects of human nature and individual welfare versus the common good earned it position 68 on the American Library Association’s list of the one hundred most frequently challenged books of 1990–1999. It should be read by an audience of 14+.
Book talking ideas: How is this story like an episode of television's Survivor? And how is it different?
Why is it included in the list? : In 2005, the novel was chosen by TIME magazine as one of the one hundred best English-language novels from 1923 to present. I read it as required reading in high school and it made such an impression on me that I wanted to be sure to include it in this list.
The Lord of the Rings: The fellowship of the ring
Tolkien, J.R.R.,(1954).The Lord of the rings: The fellowship of the ring.
London: General. ISBN:9780007123827
Plot summary: In this first book of the Lord of the Rings trilogy we are introduced to the ongoing theme of the books. The plot is based on the struggle for the Ring of Power, which was forged by Sauron, the Dark Lord, long long ago.In the first novel, the hobbits Bilbo and Frodo and their elfish friends get swept up into a mighty conflict with the dragon Smaug, the dark lord Sauron, the monstrous Gollum, the Cracks of Doom, and the awful power of the magical Ring.Frodo and Samwise begin the journey to remove the ring from the shire and destroy it in the fires of Mordor. Their adventure is filled with danger and they receive help from the Strider and Gandalf and we are left on the riverbank with Frodo unconscious.
Critical evaluation: This classic good vs. evil tale is set in Middle Earth and is filled with the magical characters invented by Tolkien. The vistas are sweeping, the villains are terrible and the good creatures are bathed in light and love. Description lets the reader live the story with the characters.
Reader's annotation: I read this book in high school and I was delighted with the movies! They are so great that it makes you want to go back and read the books again!
Author information:John Ronald Reuel Tolkien was born in 1892.Both philologist and professor at Oxford University, he knew many ancient and modern languages. He created Middle-earth, along with its geography, its history, and several languages appeared.
Genre: Fantasy
Interest age: 14+
Curriculum ties: none
Challenge issues: There is some violence, but it is of a fantastical nature and is necessary to the battle between good and evil.
Book talking ideas: Do you think there could be such a place as middle Earth? Why or why not?
Why is it on the list? : The Fellowship of the Ring is the first in the Lord of the Rings trilogy. It is a classic novel and one of the most important of the 20th century.
Luna
Peter, J.,(2006). Luna. New York, NY: Little Brown. ISBN:978-0316011273
Plot Summary: Regan is a 16 year old girl with a secret. At night, her attractive and popular brother Liam puts on dresses and makeup and becomes Luna - a girl. Liam faces teasing and worse from other students and the public when he dresses as a female. Further complications arise when Regan becomes attracted to a boy at school. Their parents are in denial - both absent in their own way - and it is Regan's responsibility to shelter and help her brother on the road to transition. In the end, a hopeful Liam seems to find his way.
Critical Evaluation:Regan's voice is used to tell the story of an individual and a family who must deal with the pending gender transition of one of its members. Her mother's drug use and obsessive work schedule are shown as denial of her son's condition and her father's insensitivity is highlighted in his thoughtless behaviour. This is a simply-written story told with realism and sensitivity.
Reader's annotation: Regan's life is complicated. It might make you thankful for the simplicity of your own, or realize that others are dealing with situations that you have no idea about. Empathy is the key.
Author information: A former teacher, Julie Ann Peters says that Luna came to her in a dream and demanded that her story be written. She is also the author of many other books for children and teens.
Genre: Fiction
Interest age: 14+
Curriculum ties: none
Challenge issues: This is the story of a transgendered youth. Some challenges may occur with the inclusion of this book in a elementary school library or public library.
Book talking ideas: Social inclusion and acceptance would be a nice topic for a book talk. This book, along with others could be used to explore GLBT issues.
Why is it included in the list?: This is an inspirational story and a touch stone for many youth. It has received awards too numerous to mention and is a wonderfully affirming story about the power of the human spirit.
The Magical Life of Long Tack Sam
Fleming,A., (2007). The magical life of long tack Sam. New York, NY:
Penguin. ISBN: 978-1594482649
Plot summary: This is a memoir, in graphic novel format, inspired by the award-winning documentary-and the life and mystery of China's greatest magician. Long Tack Sam was born in 1885. As a young man, he ran away to join the circus.
He could do everything; magic, comedy...He owned restaurants and theatres, he traveled the world. He was considered one of the greatest acts of his time.
This amazing memoir tells the story of his life through art and photographs.
Critical evaluation: Originally a documentary, Anne Marie Fleming wanted to create a book to commemorate the life of her grandfather.Created from the memories and stories collected in her research,and including art and photographs, Fleming has created a sensitive and thoughtful memorial.
Reader's annotation: This is a really cool book that makes you want to make one about your own family.
Author information:Long Tack Sam's great-granddaughter, the artist and filmmaker Ann Marie Fleming is responsible for the creation of this graphic memoir.
Genre:Graphic memoir
Interest age: 14+
Curriculum ties:none
Challenge issues:none
Book talking ideas: Do you know the life story of your grandfather?
Why is it on the list? :This is a unique and lovely memoir that includes stories and history of one of the greatest magicians who ever lived. His relative obscurity makes this an eye-opening read. This book was also on the ALA's Best Graphic Novels list of 2008.
Mistik Lake
Brooks. M.,(2007). Mistik lake. New York, NY: Farrar, Straus & Giroux.
ISBN: 9780888997524
Plot summary: Family secrets are the genesis of the plot in this beautifully descriptive novel. In the first chapter,the three children try to hide their mother’s drinking from their father. Their great-aunt Gloria's secret is her sexuality. Sally and her husband, Daniel, have their own damaging secrets.It is the 17-year-old Odella, whose mother carried the secret of her survival of a fatal car accident,from the age of 16, that finally helps the family heal. Odella meets Jimmy Tomasson,and their relationship helps her discover herself and start dealing with the grief that her family has been feeling.
Critical evaluation: Attention to detail and brilliant dialogue bring the characters of Mistik Lake to life.From the Icelandic grandparents, to Sally and Daniel, their daughters and even the minor characters in the story, we are treated to a slice of life that absorbs the reader from the start. Lovely Odella is our heroine, and she comes of age in this novel, gaining acceptance and self-confidence in the face of difficult circumstances.Told in the voices of the characters, this story offers a realistic telling of romance amidst family turmoil.
Reader's annotation: Secrets can be dangerous...
Author information: Brooks, an accomplished jazz singer as well as a novelist, has reaped a wealth of awards in her literary career, including the Mr. Christie’s, the Ruth Schwartz, and for the 2002 novel True Confessions of a Heartless Girl, the Governor General’s Award.
Genre: Fiction
Interest age: 14+
Curriculum ties: none
Challenge issues: none
Book talking ideas: Secrets - can they be both good and bad?
Why is it included in the list?: Selected as a Booklist Top 10 Romance Fiction for Youth for 2008, 2008 Starred selection for CCBC Best Books for Kids & Teens, New York Public Library: Books for the Teenage List 2008, Winner of the 2008 CLA Young Adult Book of the Year.
The Outsiders
Hinton, S.E.,(1967).The Outsiders. New York, NY: Viking.
ISBN:9780786273621
Plot Summary: Ponyboy Curtis and his brothers belong to a group of poor, tough and angry teenage boys labeled the Greasers. Their rival gang is called the Socs. This story follows the events that occur when the gangs clash and trouble ensues. When Ponyboy is assaulted by the Socs for secretly meeting with one of their girlfriends, his friend Johnny stabs the perpetrator to death. The boys hide out in a nearby church, knowing that they are in real trouble, and when the church catches fire, they and some children attending a meeting are trapped inside. Johnny and Ponyboy escape and rescue the children, but in the process, Johnny’s back is broken by a piece of falling wood. Another friend Dally, comes to their aid. When Johnny dies, their other friend Dally is upset and robs a grocery store. He is chased and shot by police.
Critical Evaluation: This tale of rival gangs and teens in trouble features excellent character development and assists the reader in seeing through the stereotypes of the gang members into their real personalities. Empathy is created by the description of the home life of the greasers who have not had an easy life.
Reader's annotation: This is an old story, but a good one.
Author Information: S.E. Hinton was 15 when she began writing this novel and 16 when it was published. She is also the author of That was Then, This is Now, Tex and Rumblefish. She was the first recipient of the Margaret A. Edwards Award. Most of her books have been adapted for film.
Genre: Fiction
Interest Level: 14+
Book talking themes: How do you think the situations in this book would differ if it was set in 2009? The topic of gangs and gang violence could also be explored.
Challenge issues: The inclusion of violence and gang activities may cause challenges regarding this story, but its realism would be diminished if these topics were white washed. It is integral to the theme that these items be portrayed as realistically as possible and that the characters are allowed to reap the consequences of their actions.
Why is it in my list? This is a classic story written by a teen in her voice. It’s timelessness is created by the characters that are so believable and in its examination of cliques and gangs.
Quote: “Stay golden Ponyboy.”
The Sisterhood of the Travelling Pants
Brashares, A.,(2001).The sisterhood of the travelling pants. New York, NY:
Delacorte. ISBN:9780385729338
Plot Summary: Lena, Tibby, Brigit and Carmen are high school friends who are about to be separated by circumstances for the summer. Before they go their separate ways, They discover a pair of thrift store jeans that, despite the difference in their sizes and shapes, fit each of the girls perfectly. They decide to pass the jeans from one to the other over the course of the summer to stay in touch.Lena goes to Greece, Tibby stays home and befriends a young girl with leukemia,
Carmen visits her father in North Carolina and Brigit goes to soccer camp in California. As each girl receives the jeans in the mail, she makes a discovery about herself.
Critical Evaluation: This is the first of a four book series that follows the four friends and their magical jeans through high school and into college. Brashares cleverly includes the themes of teen sexuality, divorce and family troubles, and finding oneself as she weaves the lives of the four girls together with the thread of the travelling pants.
Reader's annotation: I think we all wish we could find a pair of these jeans!
Author information: Ann Brashares is a young adult fiction writer who has created the Sisterhood series as well as two sci-fi books for teens.
Genre: Fiction
Interest age: 13+
Curriculum ties: none
Challenge issues: The teen sexuality in this book may make it most appropriate for those 14+
Book talking ideas: Do you have to leave home to find yourself?
Why is it included in my list?: This is a great book for young women and the friendships described in the book ring true. The books spent many weeks on the best seller list and have been re-written for film.
Skin
Vrettos,A.(2006). Skin. New York, NY: Simon & Schuster.ISBN: 9781416906551
Plot summary: Fourteen-year-old Donnie lives in a nightmare. His parents are constantly fighting, his sister, Karen, is fighting a losing battle with anorexia and his best friends shun him. After he develops a crush on Amanda, his sister's friend, and his unrequited feelings are made public, he spirals downword into a depression. He slowly becomes invisible.
Critical evaluation: The short chapters and hard-hitting dialogue used in this story serve to give the reader short glimpses of the hellish life that Donnie lives. We fear for him as much as his sister. Vrettos intersperses the woes of the family with slight moments of comic relief that make the story seem more realistic.
Reader's annotation: Tough subject matter and a desperate family, can you relate?
Author information: Adrienne has said that the character of Donnie rolled around in her head for a long time before she wrote this book. She wanted to find a way to tell his story in contrast with his sister's. This is her first novel.
Genre:Fiction
Interest Age: 14+
Curriculum ties: none
Challenge issues: There is some language and adult themes that make this book best for those 14+.
Book talking ideas: Anorexia/eating disorders and their affect on families.
Why is it included in the list? : This is a stark look at a dysfunctional family and its effect on its teenage members. The reader is able to empathize with Donnie and his ability to attain a positive outcome, with terrible odds, is a hopeful message.
Speak
Anderson, L.,(1999).Speak. New York, NY: Penguin. ISBN: 9780142407325
Plot Summary: Melinda and friends attend a high school party, just before their freshman year. There is drinking and Melinda finds herself alone in a secluded spot with an older boy who then rapes her. Terrified, she calls 911. When the police respond, they break up the party and arrest some of the kids for under-age drinking, but the rape goes unreported. Melinda is shunned when school begins and becomes depressed. She makes herself a spot in the caretaker's room to hide when things get too unbearable. Over time the depression worsens and she skips school more and more frequently. Her only solace is art class - at which she excels. Her former best friend actually starts dating the rapist and Melinda feels that she MUST tell her about what had happened. Of course, the friend does not want to hear it, but, eventually she comes around.
Critical evaluation: The first person style of this book and the use of monologues allows the reader to relate to Melinda and empathize with her situation. The book is divided into four sections that correspond to the four marking periods of the school year. In each section, we watch the depression of Melinda escalate until she is a mere shadow of her former self. Anderson uses the physical manifestation of Melinda's depression to illustrate the mental effects of post traumatic stress syndrome."My throat is always sore, my lips raw.... Every time I try to talk to my parents or a teacher, I sputter or freeze.... It's like I have some kind of spastic laryngitis."
Reader's annotation: Our tendency to hide after something bad happens is probably in our DNA, so it's hard to overcome it.
Author information: Laurie Halse Anderson began her career as a journalist in Philadelphia before writing several YA books.
Genre: Fiction
Interest age: 14+
Curriculum ties: none
Challenge issues: The theme of the book has meant that it has faced many challenges over the years. Of these, the author says, "censoring books that deal with difficult, adolescent issues does not protect anybody. Quite the opposite. It leaves kids in the darkness and makes them vulnerable. Censorship is the child of fear and the father of ignorance. Our children cannot afford to have the truth of the world withheld from them."
Book talking ideas: The problem with date rape has been well documented in high school and college situations. Perhaps a book talk could explore people's boundaries and a person's right to choose and say "no." Another topic could be post traumatic stress - does Melinda suffer from this?
Why is it included in the list?: Although this book was written in 1999, there has been little teen literature relating to date rape and its aftermath. This story lets the reader explore their own feelings about the situation. It won countless awards and was made into a film in 2004 after being on the Best Seller Lists of Publisher's Weekly and the New York Times.
Quote: "It is easier not to say anything. Shut your trap, button your lip, can it. All that crap you hear on TV about communication and expressing feelings is a lie. Nobody really wants to hear what you have to say." First Marking Period, pg. 9
Tricks
Hopkins, Ellen.,(2009). Tricks. New York: Simon & Schuster.
ISBN: 9781416950073
Plot Summary: This book follows the lives of 5 teens as they deal with various difficult home situations. As we follow them through the book, all leave home for different reasons and end up involved in prostitution. As the book concludes, some have come through a bad situation relatively unscathed and others are not so lucky.
Critical Evaluation: This powerful book deals with teen drug use, gambling, homosexuality and prostitution in a very raw and realistic way. The characters are believable as is their turmoil and we hold our breath for them as they become involved in some terrible situations. Recommended for older teens, these characters will break your heart. The stories of the five characters, told in first person, start out separately, but end up skilfully woven together in the end.
Reader's annotation: This story is brutally honest about prostitution and the lifestyle that goes with it.
Information about the Author: Ellen Hopkins is a poet and author of over 20 non-fiction titles and 5 best-selling novels in verse.
Genre: Novel in verse
Curriculum Ties: Although the topics included are graphic and difficult, the use of verse in this book, and others by Hopkins, could be examined.
Book talking Ideas: A book talk about teen sexuality could include this book, but, its rather graphic nature could make it uncomfortable to read aloud.Perhaps it could be included of an examination of the question what would you do to survive?
Interest age: 14+
Challenge Issues: Teen sexuality, hoomosexuality, prostitution and rape are depicted in this book in a graphic way.
Why is it included in my list? This book knocked my socks off! I couldn’t put it down and I was so hoping for a positive outcome for the kids in the story. It is such a gritty portrait of the lives of teens who are looking for love, but end up in trouble.
True Confessions of a Heartless Girl
Brooks, M.,(2002). True Confessions of a Heartless Girl.Toronto:
Douglas & Mcintyre. ISBN: 9780888994769
Plot summary: This is the tale of Noreen Stall, a pregnant 17 year old who has stolen her boyfriend's truck and some cash and is on the run. She eventually lands in the little town of Pembina, in Southern Manitoba, and becomes part of the family of Lynda, the local cafe owner and her son Seth, as well as the rest of the town. As time goes on, we meet and get to know the other residents of the town, and we delve deeper into the character of Norene who claims to have exhibited all of the 7 deadly sins over the course of her young life.
Critical evaluation: The characters are deep and deftly drawn and the reader is drawn to the inner strength of Norene and the quiet poetry of Del, the strength and hopelessness of Lynda. The multiple voices and visions that Brooks has created allow the reader to feel as if they are interacting with her characters, not just watching what’s happening in their lives.
Reader's annotation: This story is just like something that could happen to anyone...
Author information: Canadian Martha Brooks is the author of many young adult novels, including: Bone Dance, Two Moons in August and Being with Henry.
Genre:Fiction
Interest Age: 14+
Curriculum ties: none
Challenge issues: Teen pregnancy is featured here and it could be a problem for some. It is an integral part of the story and is depicted in a realistic way.
Book talking ideas: What is it like to move to a new town all by yourself?
Why is it included in the list? : A Governor General's Award winner in 2002, this is a wonderful slice of life story from Martha Brooks.
Twilight
Meyer, S. (2006). Twilight. New York, NY: Little, Brown
ISBN: 9780316038379
Plot Summary: Bella is a 17 year old high school student who moves to Forks, Washington to live with her father after her mother moves to Florida with her boyfriend. Bella slowly makes friends and becomes part of the fabric of her new school and the dreary and rainy community of Forks. Bella is going through the motions until she is partnered with Edward Cullen in science class. They are immediately attracted to each other, and Bella can’t understand why Edward seems to be avoiding her – until he reveals his secret. He is a vampire, as are the other members of his family. Bella is unsure about what to do until Edward explains that his family only eats the blood of animals. They slowly begin to explore their feelings for each other and their relationship progresses, until a family baseball game attracts another group of vampires. This clan DOES hunt humans and a race for Bella’s life begins. She and Edward are pursued until his family members eventually catch and kill the vampire who had been hunting Bella. Will Edward and Bella ever be free to have a normal relationship?
Critical evaluation: This suspenseful novel is the first in a series of four books that feature a similar theme. Their immense popularity has spawned countless vampire-themed fiction series, and resurrected some that had been released previously. The attraction of this particular novel comes from its classic love story – complicated by the fact that Bella and Edward must always be aware of the fact that he is a vampire and that his natural instincts must be kept in check.
Reader's annotation: If you haven't read this book, you should - just so you can see what all the fuss is about!
Author information: Stephenie Meyer graduated from Brigham Young University with a bachelor's degree in English. She lives with her husband and three young sons in Phoenix, Arizona. After the publication of her first novel, Twilight, booksellers chose Stephenie Meyer as one of the "most promising new authors of 2005."
Genre: Fiction
Interest Age: Teen
Curriculum ties: none
Challenge issues: Teen sexuality may be a challenge issue for this book. In defence, the sexuality is really just hinted at, which makes this book fine for those 12 and up.
Book talking ideas: Vampire fiction is so popular now that it would be fun to incorporate several different series in a book talk about vampires and how they are depicted in fiction.
Why is it included in the list? : This is the most popular YA book since the Harry Potter series, and it has spurred so many non-readers to read that I appreciate it for that reason alone! It is also a realistic tale of teen angst and romance that resonates with teens of all ages. Among its many accolades, Twilight was named an "ALA Top Ten Books for Young Adults," an Amazon.com "Best Book of the Decade...So Far", and a Publishers Weekly Best Book of the Year.
Wastelands
King, S.,Ed.,(2008). Wastelands. New York, NY: Night Shade.
ISBN: 9781597801058
Plot summary:This is a book of short stories that have been written around the theme of Earth after the apocalypse. The contents feature;
Introduction - John Joseph Adams
The End of the Whole Mess - Stephen King
Salvage - Orson Scott Card
The People of Sand and Slag - Paolo Bacigalupi
Bread and Bombs - M. Rickert
How We Got Into Town and Out Again - Jonathan Lethem
Dark, Dark Were the Tunnels - George R. R. Martin
Waiting for the Zephyr - Tobias S. Buckell
Never Despair - Jack McDevitt
When Sysadmins Ruled the Earth - Cory Doctorow
The Last of the O-Forms - James Van Pelt
Still Life with Apocalypse - Richard Kadrey
Artie's Angels - Catherine Wells
Judgment Passed - Jerry Oltion
Mute - Gene Wolfe
Inertia - Nancy Kress
And the Deep Blue Sea - Elizabeth Bear
Speech Sounds - Octavia E. Butler
Killers - Carol Emshwiller
Ginny Sweethips' Flying Circus - Neal Barrett, Jr.
The End of the World as We Know It - Dale Bailey
A Song Before Sunset - David Grigg
Episode Seven: Last Stand Against the Pack in the Kingdom of the Purple Flowers - John Langan
Artwork by Daniel Kvasznicza.
Critical evaluation: The end of the world is supposed in these stories of nuclear war, ecological disaster, and cosmological cataclysm. The stories of the people who survive are depicted - in some cases struggling to rebuild the society that was, in others, merely surviving, scrounging for food in depopulated ruins and defending themselves against monsters, mutants, and marauders.
Wastelands considers this unfathomable situation and allows the reader to consider the human spirit in the face of the apocalypse.
Reader's annotation: These stories are heavy, but, really good.
Author information:The list of authors included in this book reads like a who's-who of science fiction writers over the last 20 years.
Genre: Science-fiction
Interest Age:14+
Curriculum ties: none
Challenge issues: Although this book may be considered dark by some, because of the apocalyptic theme, it also offers many different viewpoints and ideas for discussion and opinion forming.
Book talking ideas:How do you think the world will end? Have you heard the theories about 2012?
Why is in on the list?: Because of the depth and scope of the authors and stories included.
No comments:
Post a Comment