NUMBER THE STARS by Lois Lowry

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Lowry, Lois. 1989. NUMBER THE STARS. Boston: Houghton Mifflin. ISBN 0395510600.

PLOT SUMMARY

Annemarie Johansen and her best friend Ellen Rosen are growing up in Denmark during the Nazi occupation. Ellen and her family are in danger when the Nazis start relocating the Danish Jews. Annemarie’s family takes in Ellen while the rest of the Rosen family goes into hiding. When the Nazis search the Johansen apartment looking for Jews, Annemarie’s parents convince the soldiers that dark-haired Ellen is their daughter. The following day Annemarie’s mother takes her, Ellen and Annemarie’s younger sister Kirsti to a coastal town where Uncle Henrik, lives. There Annemarie discovers that even though she is only ten years old, she has the capacity for bravery as she helps her friend and other Jews escape by boat to Sweden.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS

The setting of the story is Copenhagen in the historical context of World War II and the plot focuses on the actions of one young girl, her best friend, and her family. Lowry’s characters are recognizable to her young adult audience as real children who run, play and worry about spelling tests. The reader can also get a sense of life in Nazi-occupied Denmark as Lowry includes historical details such as shortages of sugar, butter and leather. Children will be able to relate to the disappointment of no cupcakes as well as Kirsti’s objections to wearing green, scaly shoes made from fish.

This book may very well be a school-age child’s first introduction to the Holocaust and treatment of Jews during World War II. Lowry is able to give a sense of the danger to Ellen, her family, and all Danish Jews from the conversations that Annemarie either overhears or is part of. The closing of Jewish-owned shops is explained to Annemarie as the Germans’ way of “tormenting” Jews not only in Denmark, but other countries.

While the style of the story is simple, the plot is suspenseful. As the story builds to its conclusion the recurring themes of bravery and friendship are brought into focus as Annemarie becomes more aware of the undercurrents of tension and danger around her. Annemarie recognizes bravery in the adults around her, but questions if she could be brave when needed. Her Uncle Henrik tells her, “It is much easier to be brave if you do not know everything.” As Annemarie’s family rises to the challenge of protecting their Jewish friends and neighbors, Annemarie also learns that being brave is doing what needs to be done to help a friend even though it is dangerous and frightening.

In the “Afterword”, Lowry provides additional historical context for her book. The reader learns that a handkerchief treated with a mixture of cocaine and rabbit’s blood was really used to confuse search dogs. Lowry also elaborates on several of the historical references made in the book such as the destruction of the Danish naval fleet and the resistance fighters. This book is a good introduction for children to the Holocaust and treatment of Jews during World War II.

REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

KIRKUS: “A deftly told story that dramatizes how Danes appointed themselves bodyguards--not only for their king, who was in the habit of riding alone in Copenhagen, but for their Jews.”

SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: The gripping story of a ten-year-old Danish girl and her family's courageous efforts to smuggle Jews out of their Nazi-occupied homeland to safety in Sweden. Readers are taken to the very heart of Annemarie's experience, and, through her eyes, come to understand the true meaning of bravery.

CONNECTIONS

This book is a good introduction to a history unit on World War II and the treatment of Jews.

Other books by Lois Lowry:
Lowry, Lois. THE GIVER. ISBN 0395645662
Lowry, Lois. GOSSAMER. ISBN 0385734166
Lowry, Lois. GATHERING BLUE. ISBN 0618055819

Other books about Jews in World War II:
Frank, Anne. THE DIARY OF A YOUNG GIRL. ISBN 0553296981
Littlesugar, Amy. WILLIE AND MAX: A HOLOCAUST STORY. ISBN 0399234837Gross, Elly. ELLY: MY TRUE STORY OF THE HOLOCAUST. ISBN 0545074940

WEEDFLOWER by Cynthia Kadohata

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Kadohata, Cynthia. 2006. WEEDFLOWER. New York: Atheneum Books for Young Readers. ISBN 0689865740.

PLOT SUMMARY

As the only Japanese girl in her class, twelve-year-old Sumiko, already feels different from her classmates because of her ethnic heritage, but after the bombing of Pearl Harbor she realizes the full impact of fear and prejudice as her Japanese-born grandfather and uncle are sent to a prison camp and the rest of the family is relocated to a detention camp in the Arizona desert. Sumiko learns to survive in the desert and resists the temptation to succumb to the “ultimate boredom” which is her grandfather’s term for losing hope and giving up. Like the weedflowers that are grown in the fields instead of in a greenhouse, Sumiko overcomes the hardships of camp life, making a place for herself and keeping her dream of owning a flower shop alive.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS

While this book is fiction, the setting for the story is historically accurate. Thousands of Japanese-American citizens, including the author’s father, were relocated to internment camps during World War II. Kadohata notes in the “Acknowledgments” that in many ways the story of Sumiko is the story of Ruth Okimoto, a former Poston internee who provided personal experience and research information. Kadohata’s descriptive details of camp and desert life will give young readers a feeling for what Sumiko’s life was like.

There was no fence, but, Sumiko realized, there was nowhere to go, either. She'd seen a guard gate when they drove by the first camp, but she didn't see one here. She knew what would happen if someone tried to escape into the desert. They would die of thirst.

Kadohata’s style of writing presents the complex issues of racial discrimination, prejudice, civil rights, and war without overpowering the story line or the reader. Kadohata not only includes discrimination against Japanese-Americans in this story, but also incorporates details of discriminatory practices against Native Americans in the 1940’s.

“Indians were declared citizens by the U.S. government in 1924, but the states decide individually who can vote or not. Arizona doesn’t allow it.” Frank turned to his brother for approval; Joseph nodded.

“I don’t want to vote anyway,” Sumiko said.

There was a silence. Bull said gently, “Still, they should have
the right, Sumi-chan.” Sumiko lowered her head and felt her face heat up again.

The theme of being different and trying to find a place to belong will resonate with young readers. Sumiko’s hurt at being snubbed at a party or embarrassment when singled out because she looks different are experiences that all children feel at some time. Readers will also be encouraged by Sumiko’s unwillingness to give in to the “ultimate boredom” and continue working to improve camp life and not give up on her dreams. Young readers may also be led to consider how Sumiko’s situation might mirror the feelings or experiences of Muslim or Arab-American children in today’s society.

In addition to the “Acknowledgment” at the beginning of the book, Kadohata also includes an “End Note” that provides information about the Japanese-American and Native American soldiers who served in World War II. She notes that at the end of the war Japanese and Hopi lived together for a brief period at the Poston camp. She also includes a note that Arizona granted Native Americans the right to vote in 1948.

REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

HORN BOOK: “The writing is mostly, though not consistently, compelling, with numerous details of camp life seamlessly woven into the story. Kadohata also adds some depth with a friendship between Sumiko and a Mohave boy (the camp is on tribal lands). The low-key tone and subdued dramatic arc fit the story, in which camp life is mainly an uneventful struggle against boredom; the novel also reveals why people such as Sumiko's family quietly accepted arrest and internment. Kadohata again creates a sympathetic, believable young protagonist and a vividly realized setting.”

SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “Kadohata brings into play some complex issues, but they realistically dovetail with Sumiko's growth from child to young woman. She is a sympathetic heroine, surrounded by well-crafted, fascinating people. The concise yet lyrical prose conveys her story in a compelling narrative that will resonate with a wide audience.”

LIBRARY MEDIA CONNECTION: “Sumiko's keen observations of life around her and her own personal growth are shared in a quiet, flowing narrative. Middle schoolers will instantly be hooked by the opening: "This is what it felt like to be lonely." Based on the real story of how Japanese-Americans and Native Americans were changed by their contact, this historical fiction title is excellent for discussions of family, friendships, and prejudice.”

CONNECTIONS

This book could be included in a social studies unit on civil rights or a history unit on World War II.

Other books by Cynthia Kadohata:
Kadohata, Cynthia. KIRA-KIRA. ISBN 0689856393.
Kadohata, Cynthia. OUTSIDE BEAUTY. ISBN 0689865759.
Kadohata, Cynthia. CRACKER! : THE BEST DOG IN VIETNAM. ISBN 1416906371.

Other books about the internment camps:
Kent, Deborah. THE TRAGIC HISTORY OF THE JAPANESE-AMERICAN INTERNMENT CAMPS. ISBN 076602797X.
Sakurai, Gail. JAPANESE AMERICAN INTERNMENT CAMPS. ISBN 0516222767.
Gruenewald, Mary Matsuda. LOOKING LIKE THE ENEMY: MY STORY OF IMPRISONMENT IN JAPANESE-AMERICAN INTERNMENT CAMPS. ISBN 0939165538.

ELIJAH OF BUXTON by Christopher Paul Curtis

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Curtis, Christopher Paul. 2007. ELIJAH OF BUXTON. New York: Scholastic Press. ISBN 0439023440

PLOT SUMMARY

Eleven-year-old Elijah Freeman is the first free born child in Buxton, a Canadian community developed by runaway American slaves. Elijah’s normally carefree life takes a serious turn when he gets caught up the turmoil of betrayal, theft, murder and slavery. Left on his own in Detroit, Michigan Elijah braves slave catchers as well as his own fears to do what he knows in his heart is the right thing.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Although populated with fictional characters, Christopher Paul Curtis recreates the historical community of Buxton, Canada. Curtis sprinkles historical facts such as the founding of Buxton by Reverend William King, visits by Frederick Douglass and John Brown, and the ringing of the Buxton Liberty Bell when runaway slaves made their way into the community. Curtis also provides a look into the practice of slavery in America, giving the reader a glimpse of not only the hardships endured while slaves, but also the ordeal of escaping and making the harrowing journey to freedom in Canada. Elijah admits that even as a child of former slaves he could not grasp the dreadfulness of a slave’s life. “I can see our playing didn’t have nothing to do with the truth. I could see how it was a whole lot harder when things were real and you had to worry ‘bout shotguns and chains and coughing little babies and crying folks without no clothes.”

Curtis takes time to develop his characters and gives the readers a chance to come to know their strengths and weaknesses. By the time Elijah has to face his fears, the reader knows how much courage it takes for him to continue searching for the Preacher alone after Mr. Leroy dies. The reader can relate to the characters in the story. For the most part Elijah and his friend Cooter are typical eleven-year-old boys who like to fish and play practical jokes. The young adult reader will also relate to Elijah’s confusion at getting conflicting advice from his parents, such as when his mother tells him to be respectful of adults, but then tells him not to believe everything they say. “One minute Ma, who’s got a good head for thinking, tells me I got to respect everything what growned folks say and the next minute she’s wanting me not to believe some of the things the same growned folks tell me!”

Elijah’s speech pattern and use of language is typical of the time, and while Curtis does use some dialect it does not overpower the text. Young readers will be able to get a feel for the language of the time and place without affecting their comprehension of the overall story. Curtis also manages an effective balance between dialogue and narration.

Overall Curtis portrays a free black community where people live, work, and love during a time when slavery was the norm. In this coming-of-age story, young readers will be able to relate to the theme of overcoming fear to help others while learning about oneself in the process. The reader will also gain an understanding of the historical importance of Buxton not only through the story, but also from the Author’s Note at the end of the book.

REVIEW EXCERPTS

BOOKLIST: “Many readers drawn to the book by humor will find themselves at times on the edges of the seats in suspense, and, at other moments, moved to tears. A fine, original novel from a gifted storyteller.”

KIRKUS: “This is not a zip-ahead-and-see-what-happens-next novel. It’s for settling into and savoring the rich, masterful storytelling, for getting to know Elijah, Cooter, and the Preacher, for laughing at stories of hoop snakes, toady-frogs and fish-head chunking and crying when Leroy finally get money to buy back his wife and children, but has the money stolen. Then Elijah journeys to America and risks his life to do what’s right. This is Curtis’s best novel yet, and no doubt many readers, young and old, will finish and say, “This is one of the best books I have ever read.”

SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “Elijah's decisions along the way are not easy ones, but ultimately lead to a satisfying conclusion. Curtis's talent for dealing with painful periods of history with grace and sensitivity is as strong as ever.”

CONNECTIONS

Students could conduct their own research on the community of Buxton as well as slavery in America.

Other books by Christopher Paul Curtis:
Curtis, Christopher Paul. BUD, NOT BUDDY. ISBN 0385323069
Curtis, Christopher Paul. THE WATSONS GO TO BIRMINGHAM--1963: A NOVEL. ISBN 0385321759
Curtis, Christopher Paul. MR. CHICKEE'S MESSY MISSION. ISBN 0440229227

Other Scott O’Dell Award for Historical Fiction winners:
MacLachlan, Patricia. SARAH, PLAIN AND TALL. ISBN 0060241020
Bat-Ami, Miriam. TWO SUNS IN THE SKY. ISBN 0812629000
Taylot, Mildred D. THE LAND. ISBN 0803719507

THE BOY ON FAIRFIELD STREET: HOW TED GEISEL GREW UP TO BECOME DR. SEUSS by Kathleen Krull

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Krull, Kathleen. 2004. THE BOY ON FAIRFIELD STREET: HOW TED GEISEL GREW UP TO BECOME DR. SEUSS. Ill. by Steve Johnson & Lou Fancher. New York, NY: Random House. ISBN 0375822984

PLOT SUMMARY

Kathleen Krull takes a biographical look at the life of Ted Geisel, the man the world came to know as Dr. Seuss. From the boy growing up on Fairfield Street in Springfield, Massachusetts to Darmouth College and Oxford University in England, Ted Geisel never lost his love of doodling and after selling his first work he started signing subsequent work as Dr. Seuss. The picture book biography ends with Ted moving to New York with a bright future ahead of him. Additional pages complete Ted Geisel’s story “on beyond Fairfield Street.”

CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Krull’s biography provides a look into the life of the real person who is known as Dr. Seuss. The book, while informative, is presented in an easy to read storybook format. The reader is able to get a sense of the boy growing up on Fairfield Street having birthday parties, playing outdoors with his friends, and going to the beach on summer vacations. Hearing stories about the animals in the zoo where his father worked and the nonsense verses invented by his mother helped feed his imagination while he was growing up.

The full page illustrations by Johnson and Fancher help create a visual image of the time period and are a realistic complement to Krull’s words. Illustrations from Seuss’ own work are also included on each page of text, and a reference list of each illustration and the order it appears is presented at the end of the book.

The supplementary section titled “On Beyond Fairfield Street” provides additional historical information about Geisel’s life and career. Krull also includes a bibliography of Dr. Seuss’ books as well as a reference list of books and websites for additional information.

The picture book presentation of biographical information will engage children as they learn about a favorite author. There will be many children who can identify with the boy who “didn’t always fit in” and be encouraged that he found a way to do “what he loved, not what others might want him to do.”

REVIEW EXCERPTS

KIRKUS REVIEW: “The magic of his name will make this a huge hit, but it’s the lively writing that puts the hat on the cat.”

SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “This picture-book biography is a winner...Krull’s work is a terrific look at the boyhood of one of the most beloved author/illustrators of the 20th century.”

BOOKLIST: “A delightful picture-book biography about Geisel that chronicles how he became an innovative writer and illustrator beloved by readers young and old.”

CONNECTIONS

Use this title in connection with Read Across America on March 2 to help students understand who Dr. Seuss is.

Books by Dr. Suess:
Suess, Dr. HORTON HEARS A WHO. ISBN 0394800788
Suess, Dr. Oh THE PLACES YOU’LL GO. ISBN 0679847367
Suess, Dr. HORTON HATCHES THE EGG. ISBN 039480077X

Other biographies by Kathleen Krull:
Krull, Kathleen. HARVESTING HOPE: THE STORY OF CESAR CHAVEZ. ISBN 0152014373
Krull, Kathleen. HOUDINI: WORLD’S GREATEST MYSTERY MAN AND ESCAPE KING. ISBN 0802789536
Krull, Kathleen. WILMA UNLIMITED: HOW WILMA RUDOLF BECAME THE WORLD’S FASTEST WOMAN. ISBN 9780152012670

SPIDERS by Seymour Simon

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Simon, Seymour. 2003. SPIDERS. New York: Scholastic, Inc. ISBN 0439810795

PLOT SUMMARY

According to Seymour Simon there are about 35,000 different kinds of spiders, with more possibly waiting to be discovered. In this book, Simon looks at some of the common characteristics of spiders including coloration, web spinning styles, hunting techniques, and habitats. Simon also takes the time to include some fascinating details about several different kinds of spiders, such as the water spider living underwater in an air bubble or a jumping spider that can jump about 40 times the length of its own body.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS

After describing the general characteristics of spiders, the text is generally organized around web building spiders and hunting spiders. Every page of text is accompanied by a full page photograph on the facing page that illustrates the corresponding content. The text page that discusses a spider’s eight eyes, for example, has an immensely magnified picture of a very hairy spider whose eight eyes are the size of pencil erasers. Inset photographs on text pages also complement the text and provide additional graphic details.

Simon’s style results in a book that, while informative, will capture the interest of its intended audience, school-age children. The tone is almost conversational and the vocabulary is generally age appropriate with any scientific words, such as pedipalps or chitin, explained within the text. Simon also includes examples to help put some concepts into a more easily understood context. For example, the statement that a jumping spider can jump 40 times its body length is explained by Simon as, “That would be like you jumping the length of two basketball courts and making a slam dunk.”

Although this book is intended for upper elementary or middle school students, younger children who are fascinated by spiders will enjoy having the book read to them.

REVIEW EXCERPT(S):

KIRKUS: “The creepy-crawly close-up photo of a hairy spider on the cover will have kids (and adults) saying "Yuck!" while they grab the book to look for more inside. As with other Simon photographic nonfiction, this presents information on spiders in easy, understandable prose.”

HORN BOOK: “This book's numerous color photos, often close-ups of spider species, are stunning and beautifully reproduced. Simon takes full advantage of these images, with excellent interactivity between text and photographs maximizing the informational format. The text is written in Simon's signature approach--straightforward, with conceptually rich explanations pitched to a child's level of understanding, and never simplistic.”

BOOKLIST: “The stunning cover may repulse squeamish arachnophobes, but fearless types will be fascinated by Simon's foray into the world of spiders. In his now familiar picture-book format that pairs incredible photographs with graceful, clear prose, Simon provides a wealth of information about different types of spiders, their characteristics, habits, and life cycles.”

CONNECTIONS

This book would be a good addition to a science unit on spiders.

Other books by Seymour Simon:
Simon, Seymour. SHARKS. ISBN 006087721X.
Simon, Seymour. HURRICANES. ISBN 0061170720.
Simon, Seymour. PENGUINS. ISBN 0060283963.

Other books about spiders:
Bishop, Nic. NIC BISHOP SPIDERS. ISBN 0439877563.
Hughes, Monica. SPIDERS. ISBN 1410906221.
Hall, Margaret. SPIDERS. ISBN 0736825616.

WE ARE THE SHIP: THE STORY OF NEGRO LEAGUE BASEBALL by Kadir Nelson

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Nelson, Kadir. 2008. WE ARE THE SHIP: THE STORY OF NEGRO LEAGUE BASEBALL. New York: Jump At The Sun. ISBN 0786808322

PLOT SUMMARY

Kadir Nelson tells the story of the players, managers and owners of the Negro Baseball League. When segregation shut talented players and managers out of white-owned baseball teams, they started their own teams and the Negro Baseball League was formed. This book chronicles the events of the league from when it formed in the 1920’s through the 1940’s when white-owned teams started to recruit players from the Negro Baseball League. The early days of baseball legends such as Hank Aaron, Jackie Robinson, Willie Mays, and Leroy “Satchel” Paige are part of this historical look at not only the sport of baseball, but also segregation and the racial prejudices of the time.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Written in first person, the words carry the authenticity of someone who has lived the experience, as if the narrator is one of the unnamed members of the Negro Baseball League. The book is organized into nine “innings” that provide a historical look at a twenty-year span in the Negro Baseball League’s history. The narrative style and anecdotes of the players’ experiences on and off the field are never tedious and will keep the reader engaged. The reader is taken on the bus, inside the backrooms, into the dugout, and out onto the field of baseball of the period.

Nelson’s eye-catching paintings richly complement the text with the life-like qualities of photographs. In the Foreword, Hank Aaron says that Nelson’s paintings “eloquently bring this era to life and speak volumes about the old Negro Leagues”. Nelson admits in the “Author’s Notes” that he did take some artistic license in the paintings whenever he was unable to locate factual information about a ballpark, uniform, jersey number or other bit of lost historical detail. Nelson does note that if the color scheme of a ballpark could not be located, he filled in with “generic ballpark green”, or used a uniform style from a previous or following year. The artist also confesses to painting Cool Papa Bell in front of the right field wall because of its visual interest instead of the center field wall where Bell normally played.

In “Extra Innings”, Nelson includes information about Negro Baseball League players who made it to the major leagues as well as the players who were inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame. The author also provides an acknowledgment to people who made a contribution to the book either through support, resources or interviews. A bibliography, filmography, and end notes document references Nelson used in writing the book.

After spending time with this book it is easy to see why it is the winner of the 2009 Coretta Scott King author award and illustrator Honor award, 2009 Robert F. Sibert Medal, and 2009 Orbis Pictus honor award. While the book is more suitable for older students, it will be enjoyed by anyone who has not only a love for baseball, but also for well-written and beautifully illustrated books.

REVIEW EXCERPT(S):

LIBRARY MEDIA CONNECTION: “Through text and artwork that pulses with life, Nelson has created a book that brings personality to the Negro Baseball League. Using the voice of ‘Everyman’ in the league, this book will attract readers because of the full and double-page vibrant, realistic oil paintings, and immerse the reader in the compelling story being told.”

BOOKLIST: “Award-winning illustrator and first-time author Nelson’s history of the Negro Leagues, told from the vantage point of an unnamed narrator, reads like an old-timer regaling his grandchildren with tales of baseball greats Satchel Paige, Josh Gibson, and others who forged the path toward breaking the race barrier before Jackie Robinson made his historic debut. The narrative showcases the pride and comradery of the Negro Leagues, celebrates triumphing on one’s own terms and embracing adversity, even as it clearly shows the “us” and “them” mentality bred by segregation.”

KIRKUS REVIEW: “Nelson continues to top himself with each new book. Here, working solo for the first time, he pays tribute to the hardy African-American players of baseball's first century with a reminiscence written in a collective voice--"But you know something? We had many Josh Gibsons in the Negro Leagues. We had many Satchel Paiges. But you never heard about them"--matched to a generous set of full-page painted portraits and stadium views. Generally viewed from low angles, the players seem to tower monumentally, all dark-skinned game faces glowering up from the page and big, gracefully expressive hands dangling from powerful arms. Arranging his narrative into historical "Innings," the author closes with lists of Negro Leaguers who played in the Majors, and who are in the Baseball Hall of Fame, plus a detailed working note. Along with being absolutely riveted by the art, readers will come away with a good picture of the Negro Leaguers' distinctive style of play, as well as an idea of how their excellence challenged the racial attitudes of both their sport and their times.”

CONNECTIONS

This book could be used during a unit on African-American history.

Other Coretta Scott King Award books:
Bryan, Ashley. BEAUTIFUL BLACKBIRD. ISBN 0689847319.
McKissack, Pat. GOIN’ SOMEPLACE SPECIAL. ISBN 0689818858.
Curtis, Christopher Paul. ELIJAH OF BUXTON. ISBN 0439023440.

Other books illustrated by Kadir Nelson:
Ntozake, Shange. ELLINGTON WAS NOT A STREET. ISBN 0689828845.
Jordan, Deloris. SALT IN HIS SHOES: MICHAEL JORDAN IN PURSUIT OF A DREAM. ISBN 0689833717.
Weatherford, Carole Boston. MOSES: WHEN HARRIET TUBMAN LED HER PEOPLE TO FREEDOM. ISBN 0786851759.

OUT OF THE DUST by Karen Hesse

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Hesse, Karen. 1997. OUT OF THE DUST. New York: Scholastic. ISBN 0590371258

PLOT SUMMARY

This is the story of a young girl growing up in Oklahoma during the dust bowl days of the Great Depression. She and her family struggle not only financially but also emotionally as the relentless dust takes its toll. After Billie Jo’s mother and unborn brother die in an accident that both Billie Jo and her father have a hand in, she tries unsuccessfully to connect with her distant father. The accident left Billie Jo’s hands badly burned and she can longer take comfort in the one thing that brought her joy, “playing fierce piano.” Billie Jo leaves home thinking she can escape the dust, but soon realizes that

Getting away
it wasn’t any better.
Just different.
And lonely.
Lonelier than the wind.
Emptier than the sky.
More silent than the
dust,
piled in drifts between me
And my
father.

After forgiving herself and rebuilding her relationship with her father, Bille Jo learns at last that

What I am,
I am because of the dust.
And what I am is good enough.
Even for me.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Written in verse, OUT OF THE DUST, chronicles the stark, bereft life of Billie Jo. The story takes place between January 1934 and December 1935 and each poem reads like an entry in a journal. Billie Jo’s innermost thoughts and feelings are on each page as Hesse uses free verse to tell her story.

Hesse’s language is as sparse as life in the 1930’s dust bowl of the Oklahoma panhandle. She captures the desolation and despair of the time in history but also the determination of the people to not give in and give up. In a format where every word counts, Hesse makes the most of her word choices. In the poem “Driving the Cows”, in just a few lines, Hesse paints a landscape sinking under the weight of the dust.

Dust
piles up like snow
across the prairie,
dunes leaning against
fences,
mountains of dust pushing over barns.

On every page, Hesse’s choice of words brings vivid images to mind. The reader experiences a dust storm through her vivid imagery: “winds came, / bringing a red dust / like prairie fire, / hot and peppery, searing the inside of my nose.”

In the “After Words”, Hesse notes that OUT OF THE DUST came out of research for a picture book, COME ON RAIN. According to Hesse, she was so fascinated by the period, that the picture book was put on hold, and she began writing OUT OF THE DUST. The “After Words” also includes a question and answer session with the author and describes historical efforts to visually record the depression and dust bowl era.

OUT OF THE DUST provides a fictional look at a time of hardship in America. This novel is more suitable for middle school students, but older students as well as adults will be drawn into Billie Jo’s world.

REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

BOOKLIST starred review: “The story is bleak, but Hesse’s writing transcends the gloom and transforms it into a powerfully compelling tale of a girl with enormous strength, courage, and love.”

SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “A triumphant story, eloquently told through prose- poetry.

PUBLISHER’S WEEKLY starred review: “This intimate novel, written in stanza form, poetically conveys the heat, dust, and wind of Oklahoma. With each meticulously arranged entry Hesse paints a vivid picture of her heroine’s emotions.”

CONNECTIONS

This book can be used to supplement history lessons about Oklahoma, the dust bowl and the Great Depression.

Other fiction books about the Great Depression include:

Craven, Tracy Leininger. KATHLEEN’S UNFORGETTABLE WINTER. ISBN 9781928749264

Dearan, Patrick. WHEN THE SKY RAINED DUST. ISBN 9781571688309

Harper, Jo. FINDING DADDY : A STORY OF THE GREAT DEPRESSION. ISBN 1890515310

Other Newbery Award winner books:

Blos, Joan W. A GATHERING OF DAYS : A NEW ENGLAND GIRL'S JOURNAL, 1830-32 : A NOVEL. ISBN 068971419X

Cleary, Beverly. DEAR MR. HENSHAW. ISBN 0380709589

Curtis, Christopher Paul. Bud, not Buddy. ISBN 0440413281

THIS IS JUST TO SAY: POEMS OF APOLOGY AND FORGIVENESS by Joyce Sidman

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Sidman, Joyce. 2007. THIS IS JUST TO SAY: POEMS OF APOLOGY AND FORGIVENESS. Ill. by Pamela Zagarenski. New York: Houghton Mifflin Company. ISBN 0618616802

PLOT SUMMARY

As indicated by the title, this is a book of apologies and forgiveness. Mrs. Merz’s fictional sixth-grade class writes poems apologizing to people, animals, and even the statue of the school’s namesake, Florence P. Scribner. The second half of the book contains poems of forgiveness in response to the apologies. The book opens with an introduction by sixth grade student Anthony K. who explains that the book is the result of a poetry unit and was inspired by William Carlos Williams’ poem “This Is Just to Say”. Anthony notes that Bao Vang, “who is really good in art” made the illustrations with the help of Mr. Willow, the art teacher.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS

The words and emotions conveyed from a child’s perspective are what set this book apart. Some poems are light hearted apologies for small transgressions such as eating the donuts in the teachers lounge or throwing too hard in dodge ball. But others capture the anguish of a child who feels unforgivable for the crime of betraying a friend or for being the reason her father left.

Sidman captures the voice of each fictitious writer and manages to convey real emotions. In the poem “It Was Quiet”, Tenzin writes a poem of apology to his dog, Einstein, for having to make the decision to put him out of his pain.

I’m so sorry we had to do this.
We wanted to save you some pain.
I hope we did the right thing.

Is death ever right?
I don’t know, but I hated having to choose it,
And I hate the quiet in our house
without you.

Mr. Johnson, the custodian, writes a poem of forgiveness to Tenzin to help him be at peace with the loss of his pet. In the poem “Losing Einstein” Sidman writes in Mr. Johnson’s voice:

Einstein was right there with you, Tenzin.
Even if his eyes weren’t open,
He was smelling you, feeling your touch.
You were loving him, and he was loving you back.
That’s how he went.
And that’s how a dog should go.

The mixed media artwork of Pamela Zagarenski complements each poem and stays true to the idea that the book is the work of a sixth-grade class. From hearts and arrows to drawings cut from graph paper, the illustrations have a child-like quality but with a more mature artist’s eye for detail and design. The illustration for “The River of Forgiveness” shows the author, Bao Vang wading a through a river in which the word “forgiveness” flows with the water.

The book is organized in two parts, Apologies and Responses and a table of contents identifies the poem, author, and page number. In addition to the introduction by Anthony K., some poems have clarifying author or editor notes. The poem “Little Brother” to DaRon from his brother Lamar includes an editor’s note that DaRon changed a few words in his brother’s poem so it could be included in the book.

This is a good book for older readers who will be able to grasp the ideas and emotions expressed in this book. It could be used to spark a discussion with students on expressing feelings through poetry or writing their own poems of apology and forgiveness.

REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

BOOKLIST: “Children will find much to identify with in the situations presented in the apology poems, and they'll appreciate the resolutions given in the responses.”

HORN BOOK: “This book is a collection of "sorry poems" and responses, ostensibly (but not always believably) written, illustrated, and collected by a sixth-grade class. Though the poems are not as varied in tone or style as could be desired, they provide intimate, often touching glimpses of relationships by which real classes might be inspired.”

SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “Sidman's ear is keen, capturing many voices. Her skill as a poet accessible to young people is unmatched. Zagarenski's delicately outlined collage drawings and paintings are created on mixed backgrounds-notebook paper, paper bags, newspaper, graph paper, school supplies. This is an important book both for its creativity and for its wisdom.”

CONNECTIONS

This book could provide an opportunity for students to write their own poems of apology and forgiveness, or discuss how poetry can be used to express feelings and emotions.

Other books written by Joyce Sidman include:

MEOW RUFF: A STORY IN CONCRETE POETRY. ISBN 0618448942

BUTTERFLY EYES AND OTHER SECRETS OF THE MEADOW. ISBN 061856313X

SONG OF THE WATER BOATMAN & OTHER POND POEMS. ISBN 0618135472

Other books illustrated by Pamela Zagarenski include:

HOW DO I FEEL? ¿CÓMO ME SIENTO? ISBN 0618169318

WHAT COLOR IS IT? ¿QUÉ COLOR ES ÉSTE? ISBN 0618169326

MY VERY OWN BIG DICTIONARY. ISBN 0395763207

TOASTING MARSHMALLOWS: CAMPING POEMS by Kristine O'Connell George

BIBLIOGRAPHY

George, Kristine O'Connell. TOASTING MARSHMALLOWS: CAMPING POEMS. 2001. Ill. by Kate Kiesler. New York: Clarion. ISBN 061804597-X

PLOT SUMMARY

The collection of 30 poems by Kristine O’Connell George chronicles a family camping trip. The poems, written from the perspective of a young girl, describe different aspects of the trip including pitching the tent, toasting marshmallows, fishing, hiking, and returning home again. Kate Kiesler’s illustrations bring the poetic imagery to life.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS

This is a book anyone can enjoy, whether or not they have ever been camping. Children will be able to picture themselves pitching a “blooming, bright orange” tent or watching “/a chipmunk dash / past my feet, / a furry flash /” as it steals a bite of breakfast.

The words in several of the poems are shaped to convey the visual imagery of the verse. The poem “Tent” is presented in a conical shape that, even without Kiesler’s illustration, brings to mind the profile of a tent. In “Storm” the lines angle across the page in an image of windblown rain. The words in “Eavesdropping” are shaped like the crescent moon in the night sky of Kiesler’s illustration.

In addition to shaped poems, George’s use of language creates vivid images. In “Scooter, the reader gets a sense of the family dog’s personality change brought on by the camping trip.

At home, our dog snores
loose-boned easy,
sprawled between
fireplace and couch,
losing himself
in tennis-ball dreams.
Here, by the campfire,
he’s tightly coiled–
a thin, tense spring –
snarling into the night,
hackles lifting
his leather collar.
Tonight, Scooteris Timber Wolf.

This book would be perfect to read aloud to children. The conversational structure of the poem “Two Voices in a Tent at Night” also suggests a choral reading in a classroom or library setting. This book will bring fond memories for anyone who has been camping, as well as spark the imagination of anyone who has not had the experience.

REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

*HORN BOOK: “The pleasure and surprises of going camping are conveyed in eighteen brief poems. Familiar camping experiences--including pitching a tent, sleeping in a sleeping bag, and watching a chipmunk--are described, in addition to more unusual experiences like walking through a field of mustard, seeing a moose, and discovering a cave. Richly colored paintings enhance the verses.”

*BOOKLIST: “Infused with the wonder and thrill of living outdoors, these are direct, satisfying poems that will engage kids at school, across the curriculum, or at home.”

*PUBLISHER'S WEEKLY: “This volume by George and Kiesler is as delicious as a roasted marshmallow treat. George's poems shine, the images clear and startling.”

CONNECTIONS

This book could be used in conjunction with units on poetry, nature or camping.

Other books associated with camping:

James, Helen Foster. S IS FOR S’MORES. ISBN 1585363022

Lakin, Patricia. CAMPING DAY. ISBN 0803733097

Ruurs, Margriet. WHEN WE GO CAMPING. ISBN 0887766855

Other poetry books by the same author:

George, Kristine O’Connell. HUMMINGBIRD NEST: A JOURNAL OF POEMS. ISBN 0152023259

George, Kristine O’Connell. OLD ELM SPEAKS: TREE POEMS. ISBN 0395876117

George, Kristine O’Connell. THE GREAT FROG RACE AND OTHER POEMS. ISBN 0395776074