A. Bibliography: Seeger,Pete and Jacobs, Paul Dubois. Illustrated by R. Gregory Christie. 2006. The Deaf Musicians. New York, NY: Penguin Group. ISBN:
039924316x.
B. Plot Summary
A group of deaf musicians form an exciting new band that exposes subway riders to a different kind of music.
C. Literary Analysis ( with Cultural Markers).
" The real music is in people joining together."
In this jazzy and engaging book, people find a way to a new identity through their disability. The vivid eye-popping acrylic and charcoal illustrations, the onomatopoeia musical sounds, and the irresistible, zippy rhymes tell the story of Lee, a musician who is losing his hearing. Pictures show a Lee who is confused and downcast until he sees an advertisement on the subway for a school for the deaf. Maybe I can learn how to do something new, he thinks.
Thus begins Lee's entry into an exciting new world. Lee goes to class and falls in love with sign language because it looks like jazz. Soon Lee meets Max, who eagerly discusses music with Lee in sign language, on the subway. They start to make their own kind of melodies and are happily joined by Rose and eventually her friend Ellie. In no time their unique talents are recognized and they draw a crowd of regular subway commuters, who answer the question ;"Who will listen to a deaf musician?" with an enthusiastic "everyone!"
This appealing story should be a crowd-pleaser because of the bright colors and jazz-like rhythm of the language. There are only a few markers of deaf-culture in the book. These include the postive attitude toward deafness and the joy in the rich expressiveness of sign language. However, this last attribute is not clearly demonstrated as the signing hands of the musicians appear very small in the illustrations. The hands are a little hard to see.
Even so,this book,with its exuberant cascade of words and lively, resourceful characters deserves a large audience of young children.
D. Review Excerpts
School Library Journal:
"Both uplifting and inclusive, it is a celebration of music and resilience."
Kirkus Reviews:
"An unusual story, both stylish and uplifting."
E. Connections.
Have a sign language group come in to present ASL (American Sign Language) poetry or view ASL poetry on DVDs for children.
Other picture books with a positive portrayal of disabled characters include:
Stryer,Andrea Stenn. Kami and the Yaks. ISBN: 9780977896103
Parker, Robert Andrew. Piano starts here:the Young Art Tatum. ISBN: 9780375839658
Uhlberg,Myron. Dad Jackie and Me. Illustrated by Colin Bootman. ISBN:1561453293
Monday, August 9, 2010
Module 6 Book 2 Gay Literature
A. Bibliography.
Sanchez, Alex. 2001. Rainbow Boys. New York, NY: Simon and Schuster. ISBN: 0 689857705.
B. Plot summary.
Jason, Kyle and Nelson come to terms with their gay identity and look for love and freindship at their suburban Washington DC high school.
C. Literary Analysis (with cultural markers.)
Jason Carrillo, a star basketball player, Kyle, a sensitive and bright swimmer, and their flamboyant and impetuous friend Nelson don't really explore their cultural roots. Rather each character represents a type of "every boy" in this story about gay identity. The author chooses to explore a generic High School millieu rather than a specific culture. Although Jason has a Spanish surname, he only says one word in Spanish. Likewise the setting is only vaguely alluded to when the boys take the metro,but does not really matter.
Rainbow Boys explores the coming out process of three likeable gay boys in a non-judgemental, light and upbeat way. In contrast to older portrayals in YA literature, the boys are presented as fairly well-adjusted, if temporarily troubled. Their situation is recounted in a positive and understanding light with no tragic and overly melodramatic consequences.
It is this refreshing approach, rather than the flat characters, and odd stilted dialogue, and contrived situations, didactic tone that makes the Rainbow books so appealing. The budding romance between Jason and Kyle is portrayed sympathetically and with great respect and sensitivity. Although Jason's girlfriend Debra is really just another generic character, she is also shown to be angry, but ultimately kind and forgiving.
The Rainbow books are a breezy, strangely compulsive and uncomplicated read that shows Teen Gay readers a hopeful and positive look at Gay Life. Even kids who read below grade level can escape to the simpler world of Jason, Nelson and Kyle. The series is valuable, not for its literary merit,but because of its groundbreaking portrayal of ordinary Gay teens without censure and moralizing.
D. Review Excerpts
Booklist
Ultimately, the author demonstrates, coming out is really coming in--entering a circle of support and self-acceptance that may lead to a more universal community of acceptance and tolerance.
Horn Book
A well-observed, witty, and sexually honest look at the process of coming out both publicly and to oneself.
E.Connections.
Encourage Teens to form a Gay/ Straight alliance or seek out such a club.
Inform Teens of the following useful resources:
Human Rights Campaign- an organization that works for equality.
www.hrc.org
PFlag
Parents, Families, and Friends of Gays and Lesbians.
www.pflag.org.
Visit the website to find a local chapter.
Fight Violence and Hate Crimes against Gays and Lesbians.
www.avp.org.
Other books with positive portrayals of gay teens include:
Levithin, David. Boy Meets Boy. ISBN:0375824006
Burd, Nick. Vast Fields of Ordinary. ISBN:978-0803733404
Ryan, P.E. In Mike We Trust. ISBN:978-0060858131
Sanchez, Alex. 2001. Rainbow Boys. New York, NY: Simon and Schuster. ISBN: 0 689857705.
B. Plot summary.
Jason, Kyle and Nelson come to terms with their gay identity and look for love and freindship at their suburban Washington DC high school.
C. Literary Analysis (with cultural markers.)
Jason Carrillo, a star basketball player, Kyle, a sensitive and bright swimmer, and their flamboyant and impetuous friend Nelson don't really explore their cultural roots. Rather each character represents a type of "every boy" in this story about gay identity. The author chooses to explore a generic High School millieu rather than a specific culture. Although Jason has a Spanish surname, he only says one word in Spanish. Likewise the setting is only vaguely alluded to when the boys take the metro,but does not really matter.
Rainbow Boys explores the coming out process of three likeable gay boys in a non-judgemental, light and upbeat way. In contrast to older portrayals in YA literature, the boys are presented as fairly well-adjusted, if temporarily troubled. Their situation is recounted in a positive and understanding light with no tragic and overly melodramatic consequences.
It is this refreshing approach, rather than the flat characters, and odd stilted dialogue, and contrived situations, didactic tone that makes the Rainbow books so appealing. The budding romance between Jason and Kyle is portrayed sympathetically and with great respect and sensitivity. Although Jason's girlfriend Debra is really just another generic character, she is also shown to be angry, but ultimately kind and forgiving.
The Rainbow books are a breezy, strangely compulsive and uncomplicated read that shows Teen Gay readers a hopeful and positive look at Gay Life. Even kids who read below grade level can escape to the simpler world of Jason, Nelson and Kyle. The series is valuable, not for its literary merit,but because of its groundbreaking portrayal of ordinary Gay teens without censure and moralizing.
D. Review Excerpts
Booklist
Ultimately, the author demonstrates, coming out is really coming in--entering a circle of support and self-acceptance that may lead to a more universal community of acceptance and tolerance.
Horn Book
A well-observed, witty, and sexually honest look at the process of coming out both publicly and to oneself.
E.Connections.
Encourage Teens to form a Gay/ Straight alliance or seek out such a club.
Inform Teens of the following useful resources:
Human Rights Campaign- an organization that works for equality.
www.hrc.org
PFlag
Parents, Families, and Friends of Gays and Lesbians.
www.pflag.org.
Visit the website to find a local chapter.
Fight Violence and Hate Crimes against Gays and Lesbians.
www.avp.org.
Other books with positive portrayals of gay teens include:
Levithin, David. Boy Meets Boy. ISBN:0375824006
Burd, Nick. Vast Fields of Ordinary. ISBN:978-0803733404
Ryan, P.E. In Mike We Trust. ISBN:978-0060858131
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Module 6 Book 1. Islamic- American Teens
A. Bibliography:
Budhos,Marina. 2006. Ask me no questions. New York,NY: Simon and Schuster.ISBN:1416903518
B. Plot Summary :
Nadira and Aisha, two Bangladeshi girls who have spent most of their lives in New York, must face an uncertain future after their father is arrested for an immigration violation while seeking asylum at the Canadian-American border.
C. Literary Analysis (with cultural markers)
The Bangladeshi-American culture is portrayed with detail and sensitivity. Because of Budhos' skill as a writer, the reader comes to understand what it is like to be Bangladeshi-American . This understanding goes beyond the knowledge that Nadira's Ali-Uncle (a good family friend) wears a khurta, or loose collarless shirt and that her Ma wears a shalwar kameez and that they eat luchis, spiced potatoes and polau, and celebrate Pohela Boiskahor Bengali New Year. Instead, Nadira's voice is so believable and compelling, that readers come to inhabit her skin and comprehend her values.
They come to understand Nadira's sense of unease with her outspoken and defiant,but ultimately successful, cousin Taslima. Readers come to share in the sense of comfort that she gets in the familiar surroundings of her Ali-Uncle's magazine shop and the importance of Nadira's Aunties and Uncles in her life.
Budhos also perfectly captures the sense of anxiety, fear and uncertainty that always follows the Hossein family. Important events in the history of the family like the violent partition of India into Muslim and Hindu states are also woven into the story in a masterful way that add to the reader's understanding of Nadira and Aisha's background.
The author gives us a sense of Bangladesh history using lyrical language, powerful allusions to water and vivid images of past catastrophes. "Generation after Generation the water and the land melt and blur;people move across borders that make no sense." and "When Abba and Ma were growing up the land began to rumble and shift again." It is this careful and deft use of language that sets this book apart as a Young Adult literary work.
The sisters respond to their situation and shared culture and history in different ways. Aisha, Nadira's eldest sister has always been the driven, bright, self-assured and determined one. Aisha is so fearless that she had no trouble , as a young teenager, calling an immigration lawyer that she saw on TV and convincing him to take the family's case. How can Nadira compete with that force of personality? Will she always be overshadowed by Aisha? But her father's detention and the possible loss of her academic dreams lead Aisha to break down. Nadira has always been the slower, chubby sister, but she finds a hidden strength. Her growth as a character seems natural and believable. The depth of her character also leads the reader to a sense of authenticity and understanding.
Other characters are also well drawn, giving us a real sense of life in the immigrant world of Flushing Queens, NY. "The Perfect Girls" Rose Chu, Kavita Menon and Risa Sharansky, who are Aisha's best friends and very competitive scholars , as well as accomplished at other activities, transcend the "model minority" stereotype because one sees the anxiety at the root of their brittle, competitive conversations. Characters such as Nadira's Ma, who learns bravery, wears a dashing purple thrift store coat with panache and improves her English from watching cooking shows on TV and her Auntie, who screws up her courage to get a part time job at the local Flushing, Queens dollar store, also come alive.
D. Review Excerpts
Horn Book
Nadira and Aisha's strategies for surviving and succeeding in high school offer sharp insight into the narrow margins between belonging and not belonging, and though the resolution of the story is perhaps more optimistic than realistic, it feels earned.
Publisher's Weekly
But the events of the novel are powerful enough to engage readers' attention and will make them pause to consider the effects of a legal practice that preys on prejudice and fear
E. Connections
Encourage students to discover volunteer opportunities at different social organizations that help recent immigrants.
Teens might want to explore the immigrant experience with these books. Some of these books are more humorous in tone than Ask Me No Questions:
Hidier, Desai Tanuja. 2002. Born Confused. New York, NY: Scholastic Press. ISBN:9780439357623
Marina, Tamar Budhos. 2010. Tell Us We're Home. New York,NY: Atheneum Books for Young Readers. ISBN: 9781416903529
Sheba, Karim. 2009. Skunk Girl. New York, NY: Farrar, Straus and Giroux.ISBN:9780374370114
Budhos,Marina. 2006. Ask me no questions. New York,NY: Simon and Schuster.ISBN:1416903518
B. Plot Summary :
Nadira and Aisha, two Bangladeshi girls who have spent most of their lives in New York, must face an uncertain future after their father is arrested for an immigration violation while seeking asylum at the Canadian-American border.
C. Literary Analysis (with cultural markers)
The Bangladeshi-American culture is portrayed with detail and sensitivity. Because of Budhos' skill as a writer, the reader comes to understand what it is like to be Bangladeshi-American . This understanding goes beyond the knowledge that Nadira's Ali-Uncle (a good family friend) wears a khurta, or loose collarless shirt and that her Ma wears a shalwar kameez and that they eat luchis, spiced potatoes and polau, and celebrate Pohela Boiskahor Bengali New Year. Instead, Nadira's voice is so believable and compelling, that readers come to inhabit her skin and comprehend her values.
They come to understand Nadira's sense of unease with her outspoken and defiant,but ultimately successful, cousin Taslima. Readers come to share in the sense of comfort that she gets in the familiar surroundings of her Ali-Uncle's magazine shop and the importance of Nadira's Aunties and Uncles in her life.
Budhos also perfectly captures the sense of anxiety, fear and uncertainty that always follows the Hossein family. Important events in the history of the family like the violent partition of India into Muslim and Hindu states are also woven into the story in a masterful way that add to the reader's understanding of Nadira and Aisha's background.
The author gives us a sense of Bangladesh history using lyrical language, powerful allusions to water and vivid images of past catastrophes. "Generation after Generation the water and the land melt and blur;people move across borders that make no sense." and "When Abba and Ma were growing up the land began to rumble and shift again." It is this careful and deft use of language that sets this book apart as a Young Adult literary work.
The sisters respond to their situation and shared culture and history in different ways. Aisha, Nadira's eldest sister has always been the driven, bright, self-assured and determined one. Aisha is so fearless that she had no trouble , as a young teenager, calling an immigration lawyer that she saw on TV and convincing him to take the family's case. How can Nadira compete with that force of personality? Will she always be overshadowed by Aisha? But her father's detention and the possible loss of her academic dreams lead Aisha to break down. Nadira has always been the slower, chubby sister, but she finds a hidden strength. Her growth as a character seems natural and believable. The depth of her character also leads the reader to a sense of authenticity and understanding.
Other characters are also well drawn, giving us a real sense of life in the immigrant world of Flushing Queens, NY. "The Perfect Girls" Rose Chu, Kavita Menon and Risa Sharansky, who are Aisha's best friends and very competitive scholars , as well as accomplished at other activities, transcend the "model minority" stereotype because one sees the anxiety at the root of their brittle, competitive conversations. Characters such as Nadira's Ma, who learns bravery, wears a dashing purple thrift store coat with panache and improves her English from watching cooking shows on TV and her Auntie, who screws up her courage to get a part time job at the local Flushing, Queens dollar store, also come alive.
D. Review Excerpts
Horn Book
Nadira and Aisha's strategies for surviving and succeeding in high school offer sharp insight into the narrow margins between belonging and not belonging, and though the resolution of the story is perhaps more optimistic than realistic, it feels earned.
Publisher's Weekly
But the events of the novel are powerful enough to engage readers' attention and will make them pause to consider the effects of a legal practice that preys on prejudice and fear
E. Connections
Encourage students to discover volunteer opportunities at different social organizations that help recent immigrants.
Teens might want to explore the immigrant experience with these books. Some of these books are more humorous in tone than Ask Me No Questions:
Hidier, Desai Tanuja. 2002. Born Confused. New York, NY: Scholastic Press. ISBN:9780439357623
Marina, Tamar Budhos. 2010. Tell Us We're Home. New York,NY: Atheneum Books for Young Readers. ISBN: 9781416903529
Sheba, Karim. 2009. Skunk Girl. New York, NY: Farrar, Straus and Giroux.ISBN:9780374370114
Friday, July 30, 2010
Module 5 Book 3 Book ILL. by Yumi Heo
A. Bibliography
Look,Lenore. 2006. Uncle Peter's amazing Chinese wedding. ILL. by Yumi Heo. New York, NY: Simon and Schuster. ISBN: 9780689844584,
B. Plot Summary
Jenny's favorite uncle,Peter is getting married and everyone is happy except Jenny. Will Uncle Peter still pay attention to Jenny now that he is marrying Stella ? Jenny attends the wedding, with its many traditions, and learns that she still retains a special place in Uncle Peter's life.
C. Analysis (with cultural markers).
Uncle Peter's Amazing Chinese Wedding deals with universal emotions, a child's jealousy and uncertainty set against a rich and authentically portrayed backdrop of a Chinese wedding.
Jenny's Uncle Peter is "the coolest dude, a girl's best buddy." Illustrations show him wearing a baseball cap and an oversized contemporary jersey,not the monochrome pajamas of Asian stereotypes.
Jenny, who fears that she will no longer be [Her Uncle Peter's]" special girl, just me", after Peter weds his girlfriend Stella, is shown with long braids and a smooth round face. In one bright illustration, Heo shows Jenny surrounded by All-American objects that reinforce the narrative. For example, Jenny has just been describing how she and Uncle Peter eat a hot dog lunch, followed by popcorn at the movies. In the opposite illustration, Jenny's sad face is framed with a vibrant, detailed collage of popcorn and hot dogs.
Jenny deals with her emotions even as her relatives re-enact a series of matrimonial traditions. Rather than simply presented as a "cultural parade", the traditons and customs are seen through the eyes of a young girl who appreciates them.
The first tradition the reader sees is the presentations of gifts from the bride's family to the groom. The aunties, who all have distinctive hair color, varied skin tones, and unique facial expression "ooh and aah" over the shoes, wallet, and new suit from the bride's family. Readers learn that "Dui ho" means best quality because the aunties, quite naturally, admire the gifts.
Our narrator, Jenny's explanations of historical, but no longer observed wedding customs, such as the bride's sedan chair ,are seamlessly woven into the narrative and naturally lead to a description of the all of the fascinating parts of the ceremonies and ritual associated with the wedding.
Although all the customs are explained in rich detail, the young reader never loses sight of the strong emotions that are bothering young Jenny. The little girl expresses her jealousy by dumping the hot "Chrysanthemum Special from her Grandma's fancy pot" before the tea ceremony, where the family officially welcomes the bride. After learning about what Jenny has done, her compassionate mother talks to Jenny and is able to calm Jenny's fears of abondonment.
After this emotional scene, which take place in a bright living room of an easily recognizable 21st century house, Jenny is mcuh calmer. She can continue to talk about all the fun associated with the wedding. Readers learn that the modern bride and groom incorporate contemporary rituals with older traditions: Couples still light incense and bow to the pictures of the ancestors, accept red packets of Hunbau or lucky money,but they also exchange rings, kiss,drink toasts, have the bride throw the bouquet, and shimmy to hip bands like GigaDragonByte.
Aside from offering a non-stereotypical insider's view into some wonderful and intriguing wedding customs, this book offers children a way to deal with the commonly felt emotions of jealousy and fear of change. The reader learns both to enjoy and appreciate these wonderful traditions, with no unecessary or clunky explanations and also learns how the charming and sweet narrator, Jenny comes to accept her new Aunt Stella.
D. Review Excerpts
The Horn Book
Rituals, both solemn and fun, once again form a backdrop for universal emotions about family and change in this companion to Henry's First-Moon Birthday.
School Library Journal
Heo's child-inspired illustrations contribute to the story's strong appeal with lively colors, perspectives, and details that accentuate both Jenny's feelings and the wedding traditions. A delightful invitation to learn more about Chinese traditions
E. Connections
Have children discuss other unique wedding traditions that they have witnessed.
Look for these other books that discuss wedding customs:
Soto, Gary. Snapshots from the wedding. ISBN: 039922808X
Jackson, Ellen B. Here come the brides. ill by Carol Heyer (non-fiction) ISBN: 0802784690
For a book on dealing with jealousy and anxiety and change after a wedding, try :
Brannen, Sarah. Uncle Bobby's Wedding. ISBN: 9780399247125
Look,Lenore. 2006. Uncle Peter's amazing Chinese wedding. ILL. by Yumi Heo. New York, NY: Simon and Schuster. ISBN: 9780689844584,
B. Plot Summary
Jenny's favorite uncle,Peter is getting married and everyone is happy except Jenny. Will Uncle Peter still pay attention to Jenny now that he is marrying Stella ? Jenny attends the wedding, with its many traditions, and learns that she still retains a special place in Uncle Peter's life.
C. Analysis (with cultural markers).
Uncle Peter's Amazing Chinese Wedding deals with universal emotions, a child's jealousy and uncertainty set against a rich and authentically portrayed backdrop of a Chinese wedding.
Jenny's Uncle Peter is "the coolest dude, a girl's best buddy." Illustrations show him wearing a baseball cap and an oversized contemporary jersey,not the monochrome pajamas of Asian stereotypes.
Jenny, who fears that she will no longer be [Her Uncle Peter's]" special girl, just me", after Peter weds his girlfriend Stella, is shown with long braids and a smooth round face. In one bright illustration, Heo shows Jenny surrounded by All-American objects that reinforce the narrative. For example, Jenny has just been describing how she and Uncle Peter eat a hot dog lunch, followed by popcorn at the movies. In the opposite illustration, Jenny's sad face is framed with a vibrant, detailed collage of popcorn and hot dogs.
Jenny deals with her emotions even as her relatives re-enact a series of matrimonial traditions. Rather than simply presented as a "cultural parade", the traditons and customs are seen through the eyes of a young girl who appreciates them.
The first tradition the reader sees is the presentations of gifts from the bride's family to the groom. The aunties, who all have distinctive hair color, varied skin tones, and unique facial expression "ooh and aah" over the shoes, wallet, and new suit from the bride's family. Readers learn that "Dui ho" means best quality because the aunties, quite naturally, admire the gifts.
Our narrator, Jenny's explanations of historical, but no longer observed wedding customs, such as the bride's sedan chair ,are seamlessly woven into the narrative and naturally lead to a description of the all of the fascinating parts of the ceremonies and ritual associated with the wedding.
Although all the customs are explained in rich detail, the young reader never loses sight of the strong emotions that are bothering young Jenny. The little girl expresses her jealousy by dumping the hot "Chrysanthemum Special from her Grandma's fancy pot" before the tea ceremony, where the family officially welcomes the bride. After learning about what Jenny has done, her compassionate mother talks to Jenny and is able to calm Jenny's fears of abondonment.
After this emotional scene, which take place in a bright living room of an easily recognizable 21st century house, Jenny is mcuh calmer. She can continue to talk about all the fun associated with the wedding. Readers learn that the modern bride and groom incorporate contemporary rituals with older traditions: Couples still light incense and bow to the pictures of the ancestors, accept red packets of Hunbau or lucky money,but they also exchange rings, kiss,drink toasts, have the bride throw the bouquet, and shimmy to hip bands like GigaDragonByte.
Aside from offering a non-stereotypical insider's view into some wonderful and intriguing wedding customs, this book offers children a way to deal with the commonly felt emotions of jealousy and fear of change. The reader learns both to enjoy and appreciate these wonderful traditions, with no unecessary or clunky explanations and also learns how the charming and sweet narrator, Jenny comes to accept her new Aunt Stella.
D. Review Excerpts
The Horn Book
Rituals, both solemn and fun, once again form a backdrop for universal emotions about family and change in this companion to Henry's First-Moon Birthday.
School Library Journal
Heo's child-inspired illustrations contribute to the story's strong appeal with lively colors, perspectives, and details that accentuate both Jenny's feelings and the wedding traditions. A delightful invitation to learn more about Chinese traditions
E. Connections
Have children discuss other unique wedding traditions that they have witnessed.
Look for these other books that discuss wedding customs:
Soto, Gary. Snapshots from the wedding. ISBN: 039922808X
Jackson, Ellen B. Here come the brides. ill by Carol Heyer (non-fiction) ISBN: 0802784690
For a book on dealing with jealousy and anxiety and change after a wedding, try :
Brannen, Sarah. Uncle Bobby's Wedding. ISBN: 9780399247125
Module 5 Book 2 -Novel by Grace Lin
A. Bibliography
Lin, Grace. 2006. Year of the dog. New York,NY: Little Brown and Company. ISBN: 0316060003.
B. Plot Summary
Pacy tries to discover her talents as she experiences life with her friends and family during the year of the dog.
C. Analysis ( with cultural markers).
Year of the Dog is a charming exploration of a year in one Taiwanese American elementary school girl's life.
The doodle-like,dotted line drawings accentuate the story. Pacy, who also has the Chinese name of Grace, struggles to come to terms with what it means what it means to be Taiwanese American. She also tries to fit in with her classmates. Pacy longs to be Dorothy in the school play, but is too embarassed to audition after a classmate taunts her that Dorothy was not Chinese.
Even as she longs to be as inconspicuous as her classmates, she enjoys the Taiwanese traditions of her family,such as the red egg party for her cousin Albert. She also relishes eating traditional Chinese food such as ginger and chicken soup.
While Pacy finds comfort in these traditions, they do not asuage the pain she feels in being different and unacknowledged. She struggles to fit in until her friend Melody arrives. Melody is also Taiwanese.
Unfortunately, Pacy finds out about Melody in an embarassing way because a cafeteria lady mistakes Pacy for Melody. To the cafeteria lady, " all Chinese look alike."
In the end, Pacy deals with this prejudice by deciding to write her own book because she wants to see a book about a little girl like her.
D. Review Excerpts
School Library Journal
This is an enjoyable chapter book with easily identifiable characters.
The Horn Book
With a light touch, Lin offers both authentic Taiwanese-American and universal childhood experiences, told from a genuine child perspective.
E. Connections
Have students visit the Institute of Texan Cultures in San Antonio to learn more about Chinese New Year.
Here are some other books about Asian and American culture that kids might enjoy.
Lin, Grace. Year of the rat. ISBN: 9780316114264. Sequel to Year of the dog.
Look,Lenor. Ruby Lu, Brave and True. ISBN: 0689849079
Namioka, Lensey. Yang the Youngest and his terrible ear. ISBN: 0316597015
Lin, Grace. 2006. Year of the dog. New York,NY: Little Brown and Company. ISBN: 0316060003.
B. Plot Summary
Pacy tries to discover her talents as she experiences life with her friends and family during the year of the dog.
C. Analysis ( with cultural markers).
Year of the Dog is a charming exploration of a year in one Taiwanese American elementary school girl's life.
The doodle-like,dotted line drawings accentuate the story. Pacy, who also has the Chinese name of Grace, struggles to come to terms with what it means what it means to be Taiwanese American. She also tries to fit in with her classmates. Pacy longs to be Dorothy in the school play, but is too embarassed to audition after a classmate taunts her that Dorothy was not Chinese.
Even as she longs to be as inconspicuous as her classmates, she enjoys the Taiwanese traditions of her family,such as the red egg party for her cousin Albert. She also relishes eating traditional Chinese food such as ginger and chicken soup.
While Pacy finds comfort in these traditions, they do not asuage the pain she feels in being different and unacknowledged. She struggles to fit in until her friend Melody arrives. Melody is also Taiwanese.
Unfortunately, Pacy finds out about Melody in an embarassing way because a cafeteria lady mistakes Pacy for Melody. To the cafeteria lady, " all Chinese look alike."
In the end, Pacy deals with this prejudice by deciding to write her own book because she wants to see a book about a little girl like her.
D. Review Excerpts
School Library Journal
This is an enjoyable chapter book with easily identifiable characters.
The Horn Book
With a light touch, Lin offers both authentic Taiwanese-American and universal childhood experiences, told from a genuine child perspective.
E. Connections
Have students visit the Institute of Texan Cultures in San Antonio to learn more about Chinese New Year.
Here are some other books about Asian and American culture that kids might enjoy.
Lin, Grace. Year of the rat. ISBN: 9780316114264. Sequel to Year of the dog.
Look,Lenor. Ruby Lu, Brave and True. ISBN: 0689849079
Namioka, Lensey. Yang the Youngest and his terrible ear. ISBN: 0316597015
Module 5 Book 1 Picture Book by Allen Say
A. Bibliography
Say,Allen.2008. Erika San. New York,NY: Houghton Mifflin.
ISBN: 9780618889334
B. Plot Summary
Young Erika sees a picture of a Japanese house that will change the course of her entire life and eventually lead her to Japan in search of the house in the picture.
C. Critical Analysis ( with cultural markers.)
Allen Say shows Erika, a young Caucasian American girl who goes searching for a quieter, rustic Japan years after she sees a picture of a traditional Japanese house on her grandmother's wall. Because of this picture Erika studies Japanese in school and becomes fascinated with Japanese culture. She arrives in modern Japan which is shown as an industrial country with both busy, crowded cities and historically rich rural districts. The Japanese people that Erica meets are shown in all their variety, with different facial expressions and haircuts. Say also incorporates Japanese words and phrases in his story so that the story flows naturally.
The soft, beautiful water color illustrations show the Japanese dressed in modern clothes. In contrast, Erica ,the American teacher fascinated with Japanese culture, is shown performing the traditional tea ceremony after practicing for many months in traditional clothing.
This book beautifully captures one American woman's search for beauty and history in modern day Japan and quietly conveys a deep respect and understanding for the Japanese.
D. Review Excerpts
School Library Journal
More romantic and idealistic than many of Say's stories, Erika-San will find readers beyond the usual picture-book crowd.
Horn Book
Say's storytelling and art are as absorbing as ever; the illustrations of rural Japan will have adults yearning for their own remote farmhouse.
E. Connections
Have a former participant in the JET (Japan Exchange and Teaching) program come talk to students. Contact the JET alumni association for more information:http://www.mofa.go.jp/j_info/visit/jet/link.html#jetaa
Have students do research about English teachers in Japan.
For more stories about the meeting of Japanese and American cultures, try:
Say, Allen. Tea with milk. ISBN:0395904951
Friedman, Ina R. How my parents learned to eat. ILL. by Allen Say. ISBN: 0395353793
Igus, Toyomi. Two Mrs. Gibsons. ILL. by Daryl Wells.
ISBN: 9780516200019
Say,Allen.2008. Erika San. New York,NY: Houghton Mifflin.
ISBN: 9780618889334
B. Plot Summary
Young Erika sees a picture of a Japanese house that will change the course of her entire life and eventually lead her to Japan in search of the house in the picture.
C. Critical Analysis ( with cultural markers.)
Allen Say shows Erika, a young Caucasian American girl who goes searching for a quieter, rustic Japan years after she sees a picture of a traditional Japanese house on her grandmother's wall. Because of this picture Erika studies Japanese in school and becomes fascinated with Japanese culture. She arrives in modern Japan which is shown as an industrial country with both busy, crowded cities and historically rich rural districts. The Japanese people that Erica meets are shown in all their variety, with different facial expressions and haircuts. Say also incorporates Japanese words and phrases in his story so that the story flows naturally.
The soft, beautiful water color illustrations show the Japanese dressed in modern clothes. In contrast, Erica ,the American teacher fascinated with Japanese culture, is shown performing the traditional tea ceremony after practicing for many months in traditional clothing.
This book beautifully captures one American woman's search for beauty and history in modern day Japan and quietly conveys a deep respect and understanding for the Japanese.
D. Review Excerpts
School Library Journal
More romantic and idealistic than many of Say's stories, Erika-San will find readers beyond the usual picture-book crowd.
Horn Book
Say's storytelling and art are as absorbing as ever; the illustrations of rural Japan will have adults yearning for their own remote farmhouse.
E. Connections
Have a former participant in the JET (Japan Exchange and Teaching) program come talk to students. Contact the JET alumni association for more information:http://www.mofa.go.jp/j_info/visit/jet/link.html#jetaa
Have students do research about English teachers in Japan.
For more stories about the meeting of Japanese and American cultures, try:
Say, Allen. Tea with milk. ISBN:0395904951
Friedman, Ina R. How my parents learned to eat. ILL. by Allen Say. ISBN: 0395353793
Igus, Toyomi. Two Mrs. Gibsons. ILL. by Daryl Wells.
ISBN: 9780516200019
Saturday, July 17, 2010
Module 4 Book 3 American Indian Youth Literature Award
A. Bibliography
Medicine Crow, Joseph. 2006. Counting Coup: Becoming a chief on the reservation and beyond. Washington,DC:National Geographic Society. ISBN: 0792253914.
B.Plot Summary
Joseph Medicine Crow recounts his life as a modern day member of the Crow tribe,his childhood, and his exploits during World War II.
C. Critical Analysis ( Including cultural markers.)
"When I was born on October 27, 1913,there were no doctors or nurses around with their instruments, just a medicine woman, who specialized in child delivery. With incense of burning cedar and singing of sacred songs, I came into the world. I was singing too, but they probably thought I was wailing." So begans the utterly compelling journey of contemporary Crow chief,Joseph Medicine Crow,as he tells readers of his childhood, education, and recounts the four war deeds he performed to become chief.
Along the way , the reader is steeped in the specific culture of the Whistling Water Clan of the Crow Nation. Many celebrations are detailed including a meeting of the Sioux and the Crow in 1919. Medicine Crow also describes the special celebrations that he missed upon his return from World War II. His mother was to have spread a stack of new Pendleton blankets on the floor of the train depot. These blankets would have reached some 60 feet away to some singers that would accompany Joseph Medicine Crow in a dance.( In a wonderful story that clearly places the events within modern times, Medicine Crow misses his train and his ceremony because he is chowing down at Louie's Hamburgers.)
In addition to the celebrations, the names of the characters are prominent in the story. Joseph Medicine Crow mentions his grandparents, The Yellow Tails,as well as his great grandmother Bear That Stays by The Side of the River and his stepfather, White Man Runs Him. All his important relatives are named and in some cases, their names are explained.
Readers can see the physical attributes of the narrator while looking at the color photographs in the book. In the most recent photo, Medicine Crow is a contemporary, though elderly, chief who has on eye glasses while wearing his traditonal regalia at a recent Crow Fair. Historical pictures and postcards of his parents and his cousin Agnes Yellow Tail are also included. The older photos are shot in a very respectful way.
This is a fast-paced riveting autobiography that depicts an Indian living today, his family, his history, and his many adventures. The writing style is reminiscent of a grandfather telling his grandkids about his rollicking life and should prove to be very popular among young and older readers.
D. Review Excerpts
Junior Literary Guild Selection
2008 American Indian Youth Literature Award Winner
School Library Journal:"Using large printand short chapters, this informative yet entertaining read just might inspire children to interview their elders and write their stories."
Booklist:
Medicine Crow's straightforward style and gentle humor make his recollections easy to read and hard to forget, and they provide a cultural context and understanding that is rare in books about American Indians for middle readers.
E. Connections
Learn about other contemporary and historical Indian voices. Have the class read aloud from:
Singer, Beverly R. and Hirschfelder, Arlene B. Rising Voices :Writings of Young Native Americans. ISBN: 0684192071.
or
Sneve, Virginia Driving Hawk. Dancing Teepees:poems of American Indian Youth.Illustrated by Stephen Gammell. ISBN: 0823407241
Read other historical accounts of Indian childhoods in the book by
Gleason, Katherine, Native American Literature. ISBN: 079102477.
Medicine Crow, Joseph. 2006. Counting Coup: Becoming a chief on the reservation and beyond. Washington,DC:National Geographic Society. ISBN: 0792253914.
B.Plot Summary
Joseph Medicine Crow recounts his life as a modern day member of the Crow tribe,his childhood, and his exploits during World War II.
C. Critical Analysis ( Including cultural markers.)
"When I was born on October 27, 1913,there were no doctors or nurses around with their instruments, just a medicine woman, who specialized in child delivery. With incense of burning cedar and singing of sacred songs, I came into the world. I was singing too, but they probably thought I was wailing." So begans the utterly compelling journey of contemporary Crow chief,Joseph Medicine Crow,as he tells readers of his childhood, education, and recounts the four war deeds he performed to become chief.
Along the way , the reader is steeped in the specific culture of the Whistling Water Clan of the Crow Nation. Many celebrations are detailed including a meeting of the Sioux and the Crow in 1919. Medicine Crow also describes the special celebrations that he missed upon his return from World War II. His mother was to have spread a stack of new Pendleton blankets on the floor of the train depot. These blankets would have reached some 60 feet away to some singers that would accompany Joseph Medicine Crow in a dance.( In a wonderful story that clearly places the events within modern times, Medicine Crow misses his train and his ceremony because he is chowing down at Louie's Hamburgers.)
In addition to the celebrations, the names of the characters are prominent in the story. Joseph Medicine Crow mentions his grandparents, The Yellow Tails,as well as his great grandmother Bear That Stays by The Side of the River and his stepfather, White Man Runs Him. All his important relatives are named and in some cases, their names are explained.
Readers can see the physical attributes of the narrator while looking at the color photographs in the book. In the most recent photo, Medicine Crow is a contemporary, though elderly, chief who has on eye glasses while wearing his traditonal regalia at a recent Crow Fair. Historical pictures and postcards of his parents and his cousin Agnes Yellow Tail are also included. The older photos are shot in a very respectful way.
This is a fast-paced riveting autobiography that depicts an Indian living today, his family, his history, and his many adventures. The writing style is reminiscent of a grandfather telling his grandkids about his rollicking life and should prove to be very popular among young and older readers.
D. Review Excerpts
Junior Literary Guild Selection
2008 American Indian Youth Literature Award Winner
School Library Journal:"Using large printand short chapters, this informative yet entertaining read just might inspire children to interview their elders and write their stories."
Booklist:
Medicine Crow's straightforward style and gentle humor make his recollections easy to read and hard to forget, and they provide a cultural context and understanding that is rare in books about American Indians for middle readers.
E. Connections
Learn about other contemporary and historical Indian voices. Have the class read aloud from:
Singer, Beverly R. and Hirschfelder, Arlene B. Rising Voices :Writings of Young Native Americans. ISBN: 0684192071.
or
Sneve, Virginia Driving Hawk. Dancing Teepees:poems of American Indian Youth.Illustrated by Stephen Gammell. ISBN: 0823407241
Read other historical accounts of Indian childhoods in the book by
Gleason, Katherine, Native American Literature. ISBN: 079102477.
Module 4 Book 2 Novel by Cynthia Leitich Smith
A. Bibliography
Smith, Cynthia Leitich. 2002. Indian Shoes. Illustrations by Jim Madsen. New York, NY: Harper Collins.ISBN:0060295317
B. Plot Summary
Ray Halfmoon and his fun loving Grampa have many adventures in modern-day Chicago and while visiting relatives in Oklahoma.
C. Analysis( with cultural markers).
The illustrations in this book show American Indians living in modern houses and wearing clothes bought at the mall. Grampa Halfmoon does have long black hair,but that is the only thing that might set him apart in his appearance from anyone else. These illustrations will dispel any ideas about American Indians being "extinct."
A few mentions of significant objects are made. A Cherokee Seven Clans quilt and a pair of moccasins add to the atmosphere of the stories. Mostly, the language and celebrations,such as weddings, family gatherings and Christmas are very familiar to the average child. Contemporary American Indians celebrate events in the same way as other Americans.
Still, Leitich Smith includes details that make the ancestry of her characters clear. Ray's last name is Half Moon. Ray's high-top sneakers are proudly displayed at the library with the label: Cherokee-Seminole Hightops. "Not Indian made,but Indian worn." Ray and Grampa have Choctaw friends and are originally from Oklahoma.
Children will enjoy reading this book,not because they are actively dispelling stereotypes, but because the episodes are funny and the boy Ray is mischievous and likable. Readers will learn that today's American Indians may have different histories, but they dress just like everyone else and thrive in the present.
D. Review Excerpts
School Library Journal: With its unadorned portrayal of urban Indian life, Shoes is a good book for any elementary-aged reluctant reader, and a necessity for indigenous children everywhere.
Hornbook:
The writing is warm and lively; the situations are sometimes humorous, sometimes poignant; and Ray and Grampa's loving relationship is depicted believably and without sentimentality.
E. Connections
Have classmates attend a local gathering such as the San Antonio Pow Wow:
http://www.unitedsanantoniopowwow.org/
It is difficult to find other books with realistic portrayals of the current lives of American Indian children that have the same light-hearted tone as this book.
Other contemporary portrayals of American Indian children include:
Smith, Cynthia Lietich. Rain is not my Indian name.ISBN: 0-688-17397-7
Bruchac,Joseph. Skeleton Man. ISBN: 9780060290757
Smith, Cynthia Leitich. 2002. Indian Shoes. Illustrations by Jim Madsen. New York, NY: Harper Collins.ISBN:0060295317
B. Plot Summary
Ray Halfmoon and his fun loving Grampa have many adventures in modern-day Chicago and while visiting relatives in Oklahoma.
C. Analysis( with cultural markers).
The illustrations in this book show American Indians living in modern houses and wearing clothes bought at the mall. Grampa Halfmoon does have long black hair,but that is the only thing that might set him apart in his appearance from anyone else. These illustrations will dispel any ideas about American Indians being "extinct."
A few mentions of significant objects are made. A Cherokee Seven Clans quilt and a pair of moccasins add to the atmosphere of the stories. Mostly, the language and celebrations,such as weddings, family gatherings and Christmas are very familiar to the average child. Contemporary American Indians celebrate events in the same way as other Americans.
Still, Leitich Smith includes details that make the ancestry of her characters clear. Ray's last name is Half Moon. Ray's high-top sneakers are proudly displayed at the library with the label: Cherokee-Seminole Hightops. "Not Indian made,but Indian worn." Ray and Grampa have Choctaw friends and are originally from Oklahoma.
Children will enjoy reading this book,not because they are actively dispelling stereotypes, but because the episodes are funny and the boy Ray is mischievous and likable. Readers will learn that today's American Indians may have different histories, but they dress just like everyone else and thrive in the present.
D. Review Excerpts
School Library Journal: With its unadorned portrayal of urban Indian life, Shoes is a good book for any elementary-aged reluctant reader, and a necessity for indigenous children everywhere.
Hornbook:
The writing is warm and lively; the situations are sometimes humorous, sometimes poignant; and Ray and Grampa's loving relationship is depicted believably and without sentimentality.
E. Connections
Have classmates attend a local gathering such as the San Antonio Pow Wow:
http://www.unitedsanantoniopowwow.org/
It is difficult to find other books with realistic portrayals of the current lives of American Indian children that have the same light-hearted tone as this book.
Other contemporary portrayals of American Indian children include:
Smith, Cynthia Lietich. Rain is not my Indian name.ISBN: 0-688-17397-7
Bruchac,Joseph. Skeleton Man. ISBN: 9780060290757
Module 4. Book 1 Joseph Bruchac
A. Bibliography
Bruchac, Joseph.1994. A boy called slow. Illustrated by Rocco Baviera. New York,NY: Philomel Books. ISBN: 0399226923.
B. Plot Summary
A boy born to the Hunkpapa band of the Lakota earns his name and grows to be a great man.
C. Critical Analysis (including cultural markers).
There are many culture markers within the somber but eye catching illustrations in this book. The traditional clothing , such as the dresses worn by the women of the Hunkpapa band of the Lakota Sioux can be seen in the shadowy, atmospheric oil paintings used for the illustrations. The hair styles are also visible and a general, very real, atmosphere of a Lakota dwelling place emerges as the book progresses. A glowing, purple illustration showing the fire lit tipis in the night is just one of the many illustrations that creates a very real sense of place.
The language patterns,names, and customs in the book help the reader identify a very specific culture. Words from the Lakota language are used throughout the book in a natural way that flows with the story so that little extra translation is needed. The reader learns many expressions such as U we!, come here quickly! and Upelo! They are coming! and Oh-Hey, a cry of triumph.
Since the story is about how a boy,originally named Slow because of his deliberate ways, got his adult name, names are frequently high lighted. For example, Slow's fathers name is Returns Again. Slow's Uncle is named Four Horns. The process of acquiring a name through visions or brave deeds is very important in the Lakota culture of the 1830's. Bruchac makes it clear that childhood names such as Curly or Hungry Mouth are only kept until a boy proves himself and can earn another name.
Boys and men can earn their names by participating in war parties. The preparations for rides against the Crow Indians are described in great detail. The men put on their best clothing, uncover their war shields and take out their coup sticks and lances. They mark their faces and their horses. These descriptions, as well as stories told by Four Horns add to the excitement and authenticity of the book. Four Horns, Slow's uncle, tells the story of how the creator Wakan-Tanka sent the Spirit Dog (Horse) or the Shoon-Ton'Kah to the Lakota people.
Bruchac adds new depth to our understanding of Lakota culture by exploring history and culture in a nuanced and complete way. He overturns many of the stereotypes by simply telling a real story without the use of stilted speech or cliched language. A Boy Called Slow is an excellent addition to any library because of the care that Bruchac took with his story.
,
D. Review Excerpts
Publisher's Weekly:"Satisfying for its attention to historical and multicultural issues; stirring in its consummate storytelling."
School Library Journal:
This book works beautifully as historical fiction.
Horn Book:
"A sensitive and respectful coming-of-age story that explains how a boy called Slow becomes a great warrior, performing a brave deed that earns him the special name of Sitting Bull."
E. Connections
Readers might enjoy other coming of age stories about historical figures.
Bruchac,Joseph.Crazy Horse's Vision. ISBN: :9781880000946
Nelson, S.D. Gift Horse.ISBN: 9780810941274
Gobel,Paul. Crow Chief: A Plains Indian story. ISBN: 9780531085479
Bruchac, Joseph.1994. A boy called slow. Illustrated by Rocco Baviera. New York,NY: Philomel Books. ISBN: 0399226923.
B. Plot Summary
A boy born to the Hunkpapa band of the Lakota earns his name and grows to be a great man.
C. Critical Analysis (including cultural markers).
There are many culture markers within the somber but eye catching illustrations in this book. The traditional clothing , such as the dresses worn by the women of the Hunkpapa band of the Lakota Sioux can be seen in the shadowy, atmospheric oil paintings used for the illustrations. The hair styles are also visible and a general, very real, atmosphere of a Lakota dwelling place emerges as the book progresses. A glowing, purple illustration showing the fire lit tipis in the night is just one of the many illustrations that creates a very real sense of place.
The language patterns,names, and customs in the book help the reader identify a very specific culture. Words from the Lakota language are used throughout the book in a natural way that flows with the story so that little extra translation is needed. The reader learns many expressions such as U we!, come here quickly! and Upelo! They are coming! and Oh-Hey, a cry of triumph.
Since the story is about how a boy,originally named Slow because of his deliberate ways, got his adult name, names are frequently high lighted. For example, Slow's fathers name is Returns Again. Slow's Uncle is named Four Horns. The process of acquiring a name through visions or brave deeds is very important in the Lakota culture of the 1830's. Bruchac makes it clear that childhood names such as Curly or Hungry Mouth are only kept until a boy proves himself and can earn another name.
Boys and men can earn their names by participating in war parties. The preparations for rides against the Crow Indians are described in great detail. The men put on their best clothing, uncover their war shields and take out their coup sticks and lances. They mark their faces and their horses. These descriptions, as well as stories told by Four Horns add to the excitement and authenticity of the book. Four Horns, Slow's uncle, tells the story of how the creator Wakan-Tanka sent the Spirit Dog (Horse) or the Shoon-Ton'Kah to the Lakota people.
Bruchac adds new depth to our understanding of Lakota culture by exploring history and culture in a nuanced and complete way. He overturns many of the stereotypes by simply telling a real story without the use of stilted speech or cliched language. A Boy Called Slow is an excellent addition to any library because of the care that Bruchac took with his story.
,
D. Review Excerpts
Publisher's Weekly:"Satisfying for its attention to historical and multicultural issues; stirring in its consummate storytelling."
School Library Journal:
This book works beautifully as historical fiction.
Horn Book:
"A sensitive and respectful coming-of-age story that explains how a boy called Slow becomes a great warrior, performing a brave deed that earns him the special name of Sitting Bull."
E. Connections
Readers might enjoy other coming of age stories about historical figures.
Bruchac,Joseph.Crazy Horse's Vision. ISBN: :9781880000946
Nelson, S.D. Gift Horse.ISBN: 9780810941274
Gobel,Paul. Crow Chief: A Plains Indian story. ISBN: 9780531085479
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Module 3 Book 3 : A Latino Book
A. Bibliography:
Saldaña,Rene,Jr.2009. The case of the pen gone missing:a Mickey Rangel mystery. El Caso de la pluma perdida.Coleccion Mickey Rangel,Detective privado.translated by Carmen Villarroel. Houston,Tx: Piñata Press. ISBN: 9781558855557.
B.Plot Summary
Beautiful Toots Rodriguez, the prettiest girl in 5th grade has been accused of stealing a presidential pen after show-n-tell. Will ace private eye, Mickey be able to prove her innocence?
C.Critical Analysis (including cultural markers)
Told in a hilarious hard-boiled noir style, this grade-school private eye story is marvelously clever and entertaining. Although Mexican-Americans and other Latino kids will see their background reflected in the last names of the main characters,Mickey Rangel, Toots Garcia, and Miss Garza, the teacher, there are no cultural markers. Rather, the culture that is explored is that of 5th grade with its shifting loyalties, its cafeteria food of green jello and salisbury steak and the homework and class room cubby holes. The illustrations,however, do show a dark haired,pretty 5th grader and dark haired inquisitive boy. The cover also shows a bright-eyed boy with large brown eyes and a wide smile.
Readers will simply be entertained by the intriguing mystery and impressed by the smarts of the clever boy detective.
There is a Spanish version of the book included with the English version.El caso de la pluma perida is translated into Spanish by Chilean Carolina Villarroel.However, characters do not use any Spanish in the English version. Neither students or teachers switch from English to Spanish or use any Spanish language exclamations.
D. Review Excerpts
School Library Journal:
"Lively and entertaining narrative coupled with attractive illustrations will make this book a favorite among young mystery readers."
Kirkus Reviews:
"It will engage intermediate readers in both languages, English and Spanish, and offers multiple possibilities for school projects, group discussions and read-aloud sessions."
E. Connections.
Readers might enjoy other mysteries about intrepid boy detectives:
Villareal,Ray. Who's Buried in the Garden. ISBN:9781558855465
Mr. Villareal is the only other author that I could find writing books featuring Mexican-American boy detectives.
Readers who want to see other boy detectives in action might try the Kid Caramel series by Dwayne J. Ferguson.
Ferguson, Dwayne J. The Case of the missing Ankh( Kid Caramel #1 )
ISBN13: 9780940975712
Ferguson, Dwayne J. The Werewolf of P.S. 40. (Kid Caramel #2 )
ISBN 13: 9780940975828
Saldaña,Rene,Jr.2009. The case of the pen gone missing:a Mickey Rangel mystery. El Caso de la pluma perdida.Coleccion Mickey Rangel,Detective privado.translated by Carmen Villarroel. Houston,Tx: Piñata Press. ISBN: 9781558855557.
B.Plot Summary
Beautiful Toots Rodriguez, the prettiest girl in 5th grade has been accused of stealing a presidential pen after show-n-tell. Will ace private eye, Mickey be able to prove her innocence?
C.Critical Analysis (including cultural markers)
Told in a hilarious hard-boiled noir style, this grade-school private eye story is marvelously clever and entertaining. Although Mexican-Americans and other Latino kids will see their background reflected in the last names of the main characters,Mickey Rangel, Toots Garcia, and Miss Garza, the teacher, there are no cultural markers. Rather, the culture that is explored is that of 5th grade with its shifting loyalties, its cafeteria food of green jello and salisbury steak and the homework and class room cubby holes. The illustrations,however, do show a dark haired,pretty 5th grader and dark haired inquisitive boy. The cover also shows a bright-eyed boy with large brown eyes and a wide smile.
Readers will simply be entertained by the intriguing mystery and impressed by the smarts of the clever boy detective.
There is a Spanish version of the book included with the English version.El caso de la pluma perida is translated into Spanish by Chilean Carolina Villarroel.However, characters do not use any Spanish in the English version. Neither students or teachers switch from English to Spanish or use any Spanish language exclamations.
D. Review Excerpts
School Library Journal:
"Lively and entertaining narrative coupled with attractive illustrations will make this book a favorite among young mystery readers."
Kirkus Reviews:
"It will engage intermediate readers in both languages, English and Spanish, and offers multiple possibilities for school projects, group discussions and read-aloud sessions."
E. Connections.
Readers might enjoy other mysteries about intrepid boy detectives:
Villareal,Ray. Who's Buried in the Garden. ISBN:9781558855465
Mr. Villareal is the only other author that I could find writing books featuring Mexican-American boy detectives.
Readers who want to see other boy detectives in action might try the Kid Caramel series by Dwayne J. Ferguson.
Ferguson, Dwayne J. The Case of the missing Ankh( Kid Caramel #1 )
ISBN13: 9780940975712
Ferguson, Dwayne J. The Werewolf of P.S. 40. (Kid Caramel #2 )
ISBN 13: 9780940975828
Module 3 Book 2 Gary Soto book
A. Bibliography
Soto,Gary.1992. Pacific Crossing.Orlando,FL.:Harcourt,Brace,Jovanovich.ISBN:0152591877
B.Plot Summary
Linoln Mendoza and Tony Contreras,two Mexican-American boys from San Francisco, spend an eventful six-weeks with two different host families in the small Japanese farming village of Atami.
C. Critical Analysis( with cultural markers)
The story shows Lincoln and Tony doing things that naturally suggest their Mexican-American background. For example, when Tony steps off the plane in Tokyo he gives his host Mr. Inaba, a raza style handshake. In other words, a handshake where both men clasp palms. In San Francisco, Lincoln's mom uses m'ijo, the term of endearment typically used by parents with their sons. Once in Japan, the boys attempt to make Mexican food such as frijoles and tortillasfor their host families. Lincoln and Tony teach their new Japanese friend Spanish phrases such as Andale (hurry up) and orale ( all right!).
Lincoln also painlessly learns about the Japanese culture and language from his hosts, the Onos. The Onos have a sense of humor and make Lincoln feel at home. The son of the family,Mitsuo teaches him Japanese words. The Onos live in a house that is ,according to Lincoln, disappointingly "modern",but with some unfamiliar features such as an engawa or Japanese style porch. Naturally, the Onos wear blue jeans and other Western style clothing.
Although, unrealistically, no cultural misunderstandings ever arise,Lincoln does get a close-up view of Japanese culture,martial arts and language. Lincoln enjoy such Japanese cultural institutions as a sento, or Japanese public bath house.
However, the genial pace of the narrrative and the genuinely sympathetic characters make up for any lack of depth in this Young Adult novel.
The characters of Tony,Mitsuo and Lincoln are likeable and believable. Although slow-moving, the story is interesting because it is about a fascinating cultural exchange between Mexican-Americans and their new, temporary Japanese community.
Both the Spanish and Japanese glossaries in the back are very useful.
D.Review Excerpts
Booklist
It's the language that seems to punch things up: Soto uses a heroic combination of contemporary American slang ("fresh," "bad") and Spanish and Japanese terms likely to have readers making good use of the book's two glossaries. Yet the strange word mix works more often than not; the story, though slight, is warm and winning; and its setting is strikingly authentic. ~
Kirkus Reviews:
A pleasant, easygoing story about sharing cultures.
E. Connections
Encourage readers to meet the exchange students in their school or district. Invite an exchange student to class.
Readers may enjoy these books about adapting to a new culture or making friends with someone from a different culture.
Mantell,Paul.2004. Stealing Home. ISBN: 9780316607391
Clements,Andrew. 2009.Extra Credit. ISBN: 9781416949299
Kadahota,Cynthia. 2006. Weedflower. ISBN: 9780689865749
Soto,Gary.1992. Pacific Crossing.Orlando,FL.:Harcourt,Brace,Jovanovich.ISBN:0152591877
B.Plot Summary
Linoln Mendoza and Tony Contreras,two Mexican-American boys from San Francisco, spend an eventful six-weeks with two different host families in the small Japanese farming village of Atami.
C. Critical Analysis( with cultural markers)
The story shows Lincoln and Tony doing things that naturally suggest their Mexican-American background. For example, when Tony steps off the plane in Tokyo he gives his host Mr. Inaba, a raza style handshake. In other words, a handshake where both men clasp palms. In San Francisco, Lincoln's mom uses m'ijo, the term of endearment typically used by parents with their sons. Once in Japan, the boys attempt to make Mexican food such as frijoles and tortillasfor their host families. Lincoln and Tony teach their new Japanese friend Spanish phrases such as Andale (hurry up) and orale ( all right!).
Lincoln also painlessly learns about the Japanese culture and language from his hosts, the Onos. The Onos have a sense of humor and make Lincoln feel at home. The son of the family,Mitsuo teaches him Japanese words. The Onos live in a house that is ,according to Lincoln, disappointingly "modern",but with some unfamiliar features such as an engawa or Japanese style porch. Naturally, the Onos wear blue jeans and other Western style clothing.
Although, unrealistically, no cultural misunderstandings ever arise,Lincoln does get a close-up view of Japanese culture,martial arts and language. Lincoln enjoy such Japanese cultural institutions as a sento, or Japanese public bath house.
However, the genial pace of the narrrative and the genuinely sympathetic characters make up for any lack of depth in this Young Adult novel.
The characters of Tony,Mitsuo and Lincoln are likeable and believable. Although slow-moving, the story is interesting because it is about a fascinating cultural exchange between Mexican-Americans and their new, temporary Japanese community.
Both the Spanish and Japanese glossaries in the back are very useful.
D.Review Excerpts
Booklist
It's the language that seems to punch things up: Soto uses a heroic combination of contemporary American slang ("fresh," "bad") and Spanish and Japanese terms likely to have readers making good use of the book's two glossaries. Yet the strange word mix works more often than not; the story, though slight, is warm and winning; and its setting is strikingly authentic. ~
Kirkus Reviews:
A pleasant, easygoing story about sharing cultures.
E. Connections
Encourage readers to meet the exchange students in their school or district. Invite an exchange student to class.
Readers may enjoy these books about adapting to a new culture or making friends with someone from a different culture.
Mantell,Paul.2004. Stealing Home. ISBN: 9780316607391
Clements,Andrew. 2009.Extra Credit. ISBN: 9781416949299
Kadahota,Cynthia. 2006. Weedflower. ISBN: 9780689865749
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Module 3 Book 1 Pat Mora poetry book
A.Bibliography:
Mora,Pat. Illustrated by Francisco X. Mora Delicious Hullabaloo/Pachanga Deliciosa. 1998.Houston,TX: Piñata Books. ISBN: 1558852468.
B.Plot
A variety of fun-loving animals prepare for a raucous party.
C. Critical analysis with cultural markers
The animals eat a variety of fruits found in tropical countries such as mangos and bananas. Mora lets the Spanish language rhymes create the cultural atmosphere but does not rely as much on the illustrations to provide cultural markers. The song/preparations for the fiesta take place in a non-descript house in a moonlit desert with sparse,flat surfaces and multicolored armadillos,fish and lizards that don't belong to any human culture.
However, there are quite a few cultural markers: The lizards mix together cilantro,tomates, and chile for the salsa ranchera, or tomato based hot sauce in a molcajete or Mexican mortar and pestle.In one illustration they are eating pan dulce or mexican pastry. One of the lizards plays maracas while another amigo plays guitar.
The poetry , which doesn't really flow very well,carries most of the cultural markers simply because it is Spanish. The lagartijas or lizards have amigos or friends and celebrate a pachanga or rowdy celebration or "blow-out."
Frankly, I found this book a bit dull and muted and wondered how a non-native speaker of Spanish would wrestle with the word "lagartija" while reading aloud.
D. Review Excerpts
Booklist: Presented bilingually with a Spanish translation by Alba Nora Martinez, this western frolic is winsomely illustrated in soft and soothing Southwestern shades. Slight but sassy, serve this one up with salsa and mariachi music.
San Antonio Express-News:
"Lively and colorful illustrations of dancing armadillos and salsa making lizards abound in this savory book. Mora’s poetic language and the sun-washed colors of the character animals and their food make this book a delight for the senses—it’s hard not to cha-cha while reading it aloud
E. Connections
Other bilingual poetry books (English/Spanish) for young children that celebrate animals include:
Mora,Pat. 1994. Listen to the desert. ISBN: : 9780395672921
Ada, Alma Flor and Isabel Campoy. 2005. Mama Goose: a Latino nursery treasure.
ISBN:9780786819539
Hall, Nancy Abraham. 1994. Baby chicks sing: traditional games,nursery rhymes and songs from Spanish speaking countries. ISBN:9780316340106
Mora,Pat. Illustrated by Francisco X. Mora Delicious Hullabaloo/Pachanga Deliciosa. 1998.Houston,TX: Piñata Books. ISBN: 1558852468.
B.Plot
A variety of fun-loving animals prepare for a raucous party.
C. Critical analysis with cultural markers
The animals eat a variety of fruits found in tropical countries such as mangos and bananas. Mora lets the Spanish language rhymes create the cultural atmosphere but does not rely as much on the illustrations to provide cultural markers. The song/preparations for the fiesta take place in a non-descript house in a moonlit desert with sparse,flat surfaces and multicolored armadillos,fish and lizards that don't belong to any human culture.
However, there are quite a few cultural markers: The lizards mix together cilantro,tomates, and chile for the salsa ranchera, or tomato based hot sauce in a molcajete or Mexican mortar and pestle.In one illustration they are eating pan dulce or mexican pastry. One of the lizards plays maracas while another amigo plays guitar.
The poetry , which doesn't really flow very well,carries most of the cultural markers simply because it is Spanish. The lagartijas or lizards have amigos or friends and celebrate a pachanga or rowdy celebration or "blow-out."
Frankly, I found this book a bit dull and muted and wondered how a non-native speaker of Spanish would wrestle with the word "lagartija" while reading aloud.
D. Review Excerpts
Booklist: Presented bilingually with a Spanish translation by Alba Nora Martinez, this western frolic is winsomely illustrated in soft and soothing Southwestern shades. Slight but sassy, serve this one up with salsa and mariachi music.
San Antonio Express-News:
"Lively and colorful illustrations of dancing armadillos and salsa making lizards abound in this savory book. Mora’s poetic language and the sun-washed colors of the character animals and their food make this book a delight for the senses—it’s hard not to cha-cha while reading it aloud
E. Connections
Other bilingual poetry books (English/Spanish) for young children that celebrate animals include:
Mora,Pat. 1994. Listen to the desert. ISBN: : 9780395672921
Ada, Alma Flor and Isabel Campoy. 2005. Mama Goose: a Latino nursery treasure.
ISBN:9780786819539
Hall, Nancy Abraham. 1994. Baby chicks sing: traditional games,nursery rhymes and songs from Spanish speaking countries. ISBN:9780316340106
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Module 2 Book 3- General African American Book
A. Bibliography:Lester,Julius. 2001. The Old African. Ill. by Jerry Pinkney. New York,NY: Walker and Company. ISBN: 0803725647
B.Plot Summary
After living through the horrors of slavery for many years, a wise slave with strange powers leads his people on an unusual march to freedom.
C. Critical Analysis (with cultural markers.)
The Old African is a harrowing read that depicts the suffering of slaves in a realistic and genuine fashion. Specifically, the suffering and life story of Jaja, an Ybo man from Africa is shown with great sensitivity and attention to historical detail. Pinkney expertly draws the clothes, while Lester includes a few words of the Ybo language and shows the strength of their religious beliefs.
Pinkney also shows the rich skin tone , muscular body type of the able-bodied slaves, and their unshorn hair that is later shaven. What is most vividly and realistically presented, however, is the horror, stench, disease and death of the middle passage.
The middle passage is only part of the Old African,Jaja's suffering. As a young man,he witnessed his friends and family being shot by the slave traders or The Lords of the Dead. After his arrival to the United States, he witnesses more horrors. Riley and other slave owners tortured and beat their slaves mercilessly. In the end, Jaja must depend on his long dormant, but very effective supernatural powers to seek freedom and lead others home.
Jerry Pinkney's art work for the book, originally created with graphite,gouache,pastel and watercolor on paper, vividly portrays the terror experienced by the kidnapped Africans in swirling, teeming panels. Later, as the slaves seek freedom, the sea turns a welcoming aqua blue and the skies seems spacious, golden welcoming and open.
In the end,Pinkney and Lester have created a story that is at the outset very disturbing. (As it should be.) However, by the glorious and triumphant end, several important values have been reaffirmed. Readers also see the resilience and courage of the African slaves. The ultimate triumph of the slaves, even if it is through the use of magical realism, provides a meaningful story with material that is self-affirming and positive.
D. Review Excerpts
School Library Journal:Lester and Pinkney combine their talents here to create an unusual, complex, and thought-provoking offering in which the Old African is the keeper of a power that brings comfort and, ultimately, salvation to his people
Booklist:Complemented by Pinkney's powerful illustrations, this picture book presents an unflinching account of the brutal history and of personal courage, told with a lyrical magic realism that draws on slave legend and the dream of freedom.
E. Connections
Older kids may want to research the history of the Old African's tribe, the Ybo people. Others may want to read copies of the WPA slave narratives recorded in the 1930's.
Other books that deal with escape from slavery and African-American history.
Raven, Margot Theis. 2006. Nightboat to freedom. ISBN: 0374312664
Woods, Brenda. 2006. Sally Little Song. ISBN: 0399243127
Woodson, Jaqueline. 2005. Show way.ISBN:9780399237492
B.Plot Summary
After living through the horrors of slavery for many years, a wise slave with strange powers leads his people on an unusual march to freedom.
C. Critical Analysis (with cultural markers.)
The Old African is a harrowing read that depicts the suffering of slaves in a realistic and genuine fashion. Specifically, the suffering and life story of Jaja, an Ybo man from Africa is shown with great sensitivity and attention to historical detail. Pinkney expertly draws the clothes, while Lester includes a few words of the Ybo language and shows the strength of their religious beliefs.
Pinkney also shows the rich skin tone , muscular body type of the able-bodied slaves, and their unshorn hair that is later shaven. What is most vividly and realistically presented, however, is the horror, stench, disease and death of the middle passage.
The middle passage is only part of the Old African,Jaja's suffering. As a young man,he witnessed his friends and family being shot by the slave traders or The Lords of the Dead. After his arrival to the United States, he witnesses more horrors. Riley and other slave owners tortured and beat their slaves mercilessly. In the end, Jaja must depend on his long dormant, but very effective supernatural powers to seek freedom and lead others home.
Jerry Pinkney's art work for the book, originally created with graphite,gouache,pastel and watercolor on paper, vividly portrays the terror experienced by the kidnapped Africans in swirling, teeming panels. Later, as the slaves seek freedom, the sea turns a welcoming aqua blue and the skies seems spacious, golden welcoming and open.
In the end,Pinkney and Lester have created a story that is at the outset very disturbing. (As it should be.) However, by the glorious and triumphant end, several important values have been reaffirmed. Readers also see the resilience and courage of the African slaves. The ultimate triumph of the slaves, even if it is through the use of magical realism, provides a meaningful story with material that is self-affirming and positive.
D. Review Excerpts
School Library Journal:Lester and Pinkney combine their talents here to create an unusual, complex, and thought-provoking offering in which the Old African is the keeper of a power that brings comfort and, ultimately, salvation to his people
Booklist:Complemented by Pinkney's powerful illustrations, this picture book presents an unflinching account of the brutal history and of personal courage, told with a lyrical magic realism that draws on slave legend and the dream of freedom.
E. Connections
Older kids may want to research the history of the Old African's tribe, the Ybo people. Others may want to read copies of the WPA slave narratives recorded in the 1930's.
Other books that deal with escape from slavery and African-American history.
Raven, Margot Theis. 2006. Nightboat to freedom. ISBN: 0374312664
Woods, Brenda. 2006. Sally Little Song. ISBN: 0399243127
Woodson, Jaqueline. 2005. Show way.ISBN:9780399237492
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Book 2 Module 2 novel by Jacqueline Woodson
A. Bibliography:
Woodson, Jacqueline. 2003. Locomotion. New York, NY: Putnam & Sons.
ISBN: 0399231153
B. Plot Summary
Lonnie Collins Motion finds a way to express his reaction to his parent's death in a fire,as well as his observations of the world around him through poetry.
C. Critical Analysis ( Including Cultural Markers. )
Jacqueline Woodson effortlessly weaves many cultural markers into Lonnie's poems,such as description of physical attributes,portrayal of the urban setting as well as language patterns.
For example, in the poem Commercial Break Lonnie describes his reaction to a TV commercial that depicts a happy,perfect, affluent family situation so unlike his current one. When Lonnie notes that the family in the commercial is white, his English teacher Ms. Marcus wonders why he always has to be so aware of race. In that moment, Lonnie becomes very conscious of the color of his own dark brown skin.
Lonnie records the genuine voices of people in his neighborhood: For example, Miss Edna, his foster mom, has a very lively and natural voice. Lonnie depicts her delight while they are grocery shopping. She says, " You know how we love ourselves some Twinkies,Lonnie."
Likewise,Lonnie's male school friends shout out exuberantly "Hey Dog. You want to hoop." from the basketball courts.
Lonnie also uses slang correctly. Later, in List Poem, Lonnie refers to his shoes as "kicks."
As she is using a vivid first person, verse narrative, Woodson is free to tackle familiar themes in a refreshing way. She lovingly portrays Lonnie's enduring relationship with his little sister Lili, who is being raised in another foster home. Using the voice of Lonnie, Woodson can discuss and depict the everyday rituals of life as well as the strength of the African-American family. Because the catalyst for Lonnie's self expression is an English class taught by the committed and sympathetic Ms. Marcus, Woodson affirms the value of education and literature.
In addition to successfully tackling important African_American themes, the author succeeds on many levels. In Lonnie Collins Motion, the reader finds an unforgettable, loving , wounded character. In the book Locomotion, the reader is also swept along by the liveliness and authenticity of Lonnie's poetic voice as the story unfolds.
D. Review Excerpts
School Library Journal:
Told in Lonnie's affecting voice, this tightly constructed, exemplary novel in verse will touch readers' hearts.
The Horn Book:
The line breaks make for very easy reading, and Lonnie talks about those line breaks and about poetry forms, making this ideal for use in classrooms where students are reading and writing poetry. From rap to haiku, Woodson shows and tells that poetry is about who we are.
E. Connections
Teachers might encourage students to write haikus about their own experiences.
Students who enjoy reading stories in verse might enjoy these books about young people meeting adversity.
Frost, Helen. Keesha's House. ISBN: 9780374340643 (Young Adults)
Johnsohn, Angela. Running Back to Ludie ISBN: 9780439293167
Creech, Sharon. Heartbeat. ISBN: 9780060540227
Testa,Maria. Becoming Joe DiMaggio. ISBN: 9780763615376
Woodson, Jacqueline. 2003. Locomotion. New York, NY: Putnam & Sons.
ISBN: 0399231153
B. Plot Summary
Lonnie Collins Motion finds a way to express his reaction to his parent's death in a fire,as well as his observations of the world around him through poetry.
C. Critical Analysis ( Including Cultural Markers. )
Jacqueline Woodson effortlessly weaves many cultural markers into Lonnie's poems,such as description of physical attributes,portrayal of the urban setting as well as language patterns.
For example, in the poem Commercial Break Lonnie describes his reaction to a TV commercial that depicts a happy,perfect, affluent family situation so unlike his current one. When Lonnie notes that the family in the commercial is white, his English teacher Ms. Marcus wonders why he always has to be so aware of race. In that moment, Lonnie becomes very conscious of the color of his own dark brown skin.
Lonnie records the genuine voices of people in his neighborhood: For example, Miss Edna, his foster mom, has a very lively and natural voice. Lonnie depicts her delight while they are grocery shopping. She says, " You know how we love ourselves some Twinkies,Lonnie."
Likewise,Lonnie's male school friends shout out exuberantly "Hey Dog. You want to hoop." from the basketball courts.
Lonnie also uses slang correctly. Later, in List Poem, Lonnie refers to his shoes as "kicks."
As she is using a vivid first person, verse narrative, Woodson is free to tackle familiar themes in a refreshing way. She lovingly portrays Lonnie's enduring relationship with his little sister Lili, who is being raised in another foster home. Using the voice of Lonnie, Woodson can discuss and depict the everyday rituals of life as well as the strength of the African-American family. Because the catalyst for Lonnie's self expression is an English class taught by the committed and sympathetic Ms. Marcus, Woodson affirms the value of education and literature.
In addition to successfully tackling important African_American themes, the author succeeds on many levels. In Lonnie Collins Motion, the reader finds an unforgettable, loving , wounded character. In the book Locomotion, the reader is also swept along by the liveliness and authenticity of Lonnie's poetic voice as the story unfolds.
D. Review Excerpts
School Library Journal:
Told in Lonnie's affecting voice, this tightly constructed, exemplary novel in verse will touch readers' hearts.
The Horn Book:
The line breaks make for very easy reading, and Lonnie talks about those line breaks and about poetry forms, making this ideal for use in classrooms where students are reading and writing poetry. From rap to haiku, Woodson shows and tells that poetry is about who we are.
E. Connections
Teachers might encourage students to write haikus about their own experiences.
Students who enjoy reading stories in verse might enjoy these books about young people meeting adversity.
Frost, Helen. Keesha's House. ISBN: 9780374340643 (Young Adults)
Johnsohn, Angela. Running Back to Ludie ISBN: 9780439293167
Creech, Sharon. Heartbeat. ISBN: 9780060540227
Testa,Maria. Becoming Joe DiMaggio. ISBN: 9780763615376
Module 2 Book 1 Book ill. by Jerry Pinkney
A . Bibliography.
Schroeder, Alan. 1996. Minty: A story of young Harriet Tubman. Ill. By Jerry Pinkney. Dial Books: New York,NY. ISBN: 0803718896.
B. Plot Summary
A spirited young Harriet Tubman defies her white masters with the same intelligence and determination that she will later use to lead the underground railroad.
C.Critical Analysis (including cultural markers:
Even though the author and illustrator had to take some artistic liberties because not much is known about Harriet Tubman's childhood, many well researched details appear in the both the text and the illustrations. The illustrations realistically depict the bare, dark wooden cabins where the slaves lived and contrast their stark surroundings to the well-lit ,luxuriously appointed home of Mr. and Mrs. Brodas, the masters.
The clothing of the slaves is threadbare, but the colorful or striped kerchiefs worn by the women and girls as head coverings stand out and add a touch of color. This specific aspect of plantation life, as well as other authentic elements,such as the fact that the slaves ate blueberries ,were well researched by Jerry Pinkney at the Banneker-Douglas museum in Maryland.
The language of the characters is realistically shaped by their experience of opression and slavery. In richly symbolic language, Harriet's mother, Old Rit, warns Harriet that "If your head is in the lion's mouth, it's best to pat him a little."The dialogue of the characters is also filled with words where the endings are truncated. This gives the dialogue a more natural sound. For example, Old Rit, Minty's mother typically states, "There's somethin'I gotta say t'you."
In addition to providing well-researched details, Minty beautifully depicts the indomitable will and head strong spirit that will lead the young Harriet Tubman to freedom and define her risky life as a conductor on the Underground Railroad.
Minty faces many heartaches and injustices,including brutal whippings,the burning of her precious doll and the sale of her friend. Yet, she refuses "to pat the lion's head" and her will to defy her oppressors prevails. After coming to grips with Minty's determination, her father teaches her to swim as well as how to survive in the wilderness by reading the trees and the stars.
This story depicts several strong African-American themes ,as identified by Violet Harris, including "slavery and its impact" and the " strength and resilience of African-American people in the face of adversity." The story of the bowed, but not defeated Harriet provides material that is self-affirming complete with a depiction of a strong,loving , if threatened African-American family in squalid and oppressive surroundings.
Pinkney's water colors and use of pencil further reinforce the message of the story. The dappled greens and blues are used to depict the comforting forest and the concealing water as sources of strength and knowledge for the future underground railroad conductor. In addition, readers are visually and symbolically assured in one small way that Minty will win out over her masters: She is usually depicted wearing a beautiful, bright red kerchief or turban that boldly stands out against the more muted backgrounds.
D.Review Excerpts
Publisher's Weekly:
Schroeder's (Ragtime Tumpie; Carolina Shout!) choice of lively vignettes rather than a more traditional biography is a wise one. With color and feeling he humanizes a historic figure, coaxing readers to imagine or research the rest of the story.
E.Connections
Teacher's might consider renting a Freedom Box-Traveling Trunk with scripts, props and educational materials from the National Underground Freedom Center, a national museum dedicated to preserving and teaching the history of the the Underground Railroad. http://www.freedomcenter.org/
Look for these and many other excellent children's books about Harriet Tubman and/or the underground railroad.
Weatherford, Carol Boston. Moses: when Harriet Tubman led her people to freedom. Illustrated By Kadir Nelson. ISBN: 9780786851751
Ringgold,Faith. Aunt Harriet's Underground Railroad in the sky..
ISBN:0517587688
Clinton, Catherine. When Harriet met Soujorner.ill. by Shane W. Evans. ISBN:9780060504250
Schroeder, Alan. 1996. Minty: A story of young Harriet Tubman. Ill. By Jerry Pinkney. Dial Books: New York,NY. ISBN: 0803718896.
B. Plot Summary
A spirited young Harriet Tubman defies her white masters with the same intelligence and determination that she will later use to lead the underground railroad.
C.Critical Analysis (including cultural markers:
Even though the author and illustrator had to take some artistic liberties because not much is known about Harriet Tubman's childhood, many well researched details appear in the both the text and the illustrations. The illustrations realistically depict the bare, dark wooden cabins where the slaves lived and contrast their stark surroundings to the well-lit ,luxuriously appointed home of Mr. and Mrs. Brodas, the masters.
The clothing of the slaves is threadbare, but the colorful or striped kerchiefs worn by the women and girls as head coverings stand out and add a touch of color. This specific aspect of plantation life, as well as other authentic elements,such as the fact that the slaves ate blueberries ,were well researched by Jerry Pinkney at the Banneker-Douglas museum in Maryland.
The language of the characters is realistically shaped by their experience of opression and slavery. In richly symbolic language, Harriet's mother, Old Rit, warns Harriet that "If your head is in the lion's mouth, it's best to pat him a little."The dialogue of the characters is also filled with words where the endings are truncated. This gives the dialogue a more natural sound. For example, Old Rit, Minty's mother typically states, "There's somethin'I gotta say t'you."
In addition to providing well-researched details, Minty beautifully depicts the indomitable will and head strong spirit that will lead the young Harriet Tubman to freedom and define her risky life as a conductor on the Underground Railroad.
Minty faces many heartaches and injustices,including brutal whippings,the burning of her precious doll and the sale of her friend. Yet, she refuses "to pat the lion's head" and her will to defy her oppressors prevails. After coming to grips with Minty's determination, her father teaches her to swim as well as how to survive in the wilderness by reading the trees and the stars.
This story depicts several strong African-American themes ,as identified by Violet Harris, including "slavery and its impact" and the " strength and resilience of African-American people in the face of adversity." The story of the bowed, but not defeated Harriet provides material that is self-affirming complete with a depiction of a strong,loving , if threatened African-American family in squalid and oppressive surroundings.
Pinkney's water colors and use of pencil further reinforce the message of the story. The dappled greens and blues are used to depict the comforting forest and the concealing water as sources of strength and knowledge for the future underground railroad conductor. In addition, readers are visually and symbolically assured in one small way that Minty will win out over her masters: She is usually depicted wearing a beautiful, bright red kerchief or turban that boldly stands out against the more muted backgrounds.
D.Review Excerpts
Publisher's Weekly:
Schroeder's (Ragtime Tumpie; Carolina Shout!) choice of lively vignettes rather than a more traditional biography is a wise one. With color and feeling he humanizes a historic figure, coaxing readers to imagine or research the rest of the story.
E.Connections
Teacher's might consider renting a Freedom Box-Traveling Trunk with scripts, props and educational materials from the National Underground Freedom Center, a national museum dedicated to preserving and teaching the history of the the Underground Railroad. http://www.freedomcenter.org/
Look for these and many other excellent children's books about Harriet Tubman and/or the underground railroad.
Weatherford, Carol Boston. Moses: when Harriet Tubman led her people to freedom. Illustrated By Kadir Nelson. ISBN: 9780786851751
Ringgold,Faith. Aunt Harriet's Underground Railroad in the sky..
ISBN:0517587688
Clinton, Catherine. When Harriet met Soujorner.ill. by Shane W. Evans. ISBN:9780060504250
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Module 1 Book 1- Mem Fox book.
A. Bibliography:
Fox, Mem. 1989. Feathers and Fools. New York,NY: Harcourt,Brace & Co.Illustrated by Nicholas Wilton. ISBN:0152004734.
B.Plot Summary
Two flocks of birds focus on their differences, commit violent acts against each other and hoard weapons to defeat each other . The two flocks seemed doomed and are almost entirely wiped out by their hatred and destructive behavior until a new, kinder generation is born.
C. Critical Analysis
This allegory reads like a modern day Aesop's fable with its plea for tolerance. The horrifying and escalating battles between the proud, angry peacocks and the suspicious swans are portrayed with a palette of angry reds and muted greens that grow increasingly dark as the anger between the two groups increases. The illustrator also frames the pages with fringed black borders and dark symbols such as thorns and snakes, thus further illustrating the fear and frustration of the warring flocks. This is a somber book, with each turn of the page increasing the reader's sense of doom until the final hopeful page.
Because this tale is an allegory, there are no realistically portrayed cultural markers, but the peace advocating moral should be clear enough so that the perceptive child will understand that it is better to find common ground with the so-called enemy. The reader will clearly see that hatred and suspicion can only lead to doom and mutual destruction.
D. Review Excerpts
Publisher's Weekly:
This powerful allegory portrays the dire reactions of a "pride of magnificent peacocks" and a "flock of elegant swans" who cannot see beyond their differences
School Library Journal
This tale will be an easy step-off to discussion of the late arms-race, perhaps helping to clarify thoughts, even to changing opinions. Fox clearly implies that war is the result of stupidity and unreasonable fear.‘
E. Connections
Look for these other books that advocate peaceful coexistence and getting to know your neighbor:
Seuss,Dr. The Butter Battle Book. ISBN: 0394865804
Tres, Seymour. We Played Marbles. ISBN: ISBN: 9780531300749
King, Larry L. Because of Lozo Brown. Illustrated by Amy Schwartz. ISBN: 9780140505931
Fox, Mem. 1989. Feathers and Fools. New York,NY: Harcourt,Brace & Co.Illustrated by Nicholas Wilton. ISBN:0152004734.
B.Plot Summary
Two flocks of birds focus on their differences, commit violent acts against each other and hoard weapons to defeat each other . The two flocks seemed doomed and are almost entirely wiped out by their hatred and destructive behavior until a new, kinder generation is born.
C. Critical Analysis
This allegory reads like a modern day Aesop's fable with its plea for tolerance. The horrifying and escalating battles between the proud, angry peacocks and the suspicious swans are portrayed with a palette of angry reds and muted greens that grow increasingly dark as the anger between the two groups increases. The illustrator also frames the pages with fringed black borders and dark symbols such as thorns and snakes, thus further illustrating the fear and frustration of the warring flocks. This is a somber book, with each turn of the page increasing the reader's sense of doom until the final hopeful page.
Because this tale is an allegory, there are no realistically portrayed cultural markers, but the peace advocating moral should be clear enough so that the perceptive child will understand that it is better to find common ground with the so-called enemy. The reader will clearly see that hatred and suspicion can only lead to doom and mutual destruction.
D. Review Excerpts
Publisher's Weekly:
This powerful allegory portrays the dire reactions of a "pride of magnificent peacocks" and a "flock of elegant swans" who cannot see beyond their differences
School Library Journal
This tale will be an easy step-off to discussion of the late arms-race, perhaps helping to clarify thoughts, even to changing opinions. Fox clearly implies that war is the result of stupidity and unreasonable fear.‘
E. Connections
Look for these other books that advocate peaceful coexistence and getting to know your neighbor:
Seuss,Dr. The Butter Battle Book. ISBN: 0394865804
Tres, Seymour. We Played Marbles. ISBN: ISBN: 9780531300749
King, Larry L. Because of Lozo Brown. Illustrated by Amy Schwartz. ISBN: 9780140505931
Friday, June 18, 2010
Module 1 Book 3: Moribito:Guardian of the Spirit by Nahoko Uehashi
A.Bibliography
Uehashi,Nahoko. Moribito: Guardian of the Spirit. Translated by Cathy Hirano. New York,NY: Scholastic. ISBN:978-0-545-00542-5
B.Plot Summary
In a fantasy world that,according to the author "carries the scent of [feudal] Japan," Balsa must serve as the guardian of the intelligent young prince Chagum. Balsa, a talented female body guard must care for the child entrusted to her by a royal consort while protecting the boy from both the supernatural forces that live within the child and the ruthless court assassins hired by the boy's father.
C. Critical Analysis(including cultural markers)
Without additional research,it may be difficult for the average non-Japanese reader to distinguish between the authentic cultural details of daily life in feudal Japan and the customs that belong exclusively to the fantasy world based on old Japan created by the author.
However, some cultural details emerge as important markers.
Balsa, a fearless and athletic female bodyguard must still pay a great deal of respect to her elders and teachers. For example, Balsa still venerates and uses a more formal tone to address the elderly Magic weaver, Torogai, who served as her mentor. This aspect of the story appears to be rooted in Japanese culture.
Another aspect of the story that also seems to mimic Japanese society is the stratification of the society in which Balsa and Changum live. Each class or member of the society fits in within a certain level of a hierarchy with royalty being semi-divine beings at the top of the social strata. Errand runners,merchants and soldiers all know their place within this society that seems to allow for little upward mobility. Only certain lucky people such as gifted children plucked from their families by palace emissaries and trained as palace guards and hunters appear to have any hope of breaking through class barriers.
The book is rich with created cultural details. The fact that the author Nahoko Uehashi, has a PhD.in cultural anthropology seems to explain her ability to convincingly weave the creation myths of the two main fantasy cultures into the plot of the book. These two cultures are the Yakoo or the original inhabitants of the Japan-like place called the Nayoro Peninsula and the Yogo, the more recent colonizers of the peninsula. The origin myth of the first water snake who created the world told by the Yakoos and the myth of the first giants of the earth from the Yogos would seem to be influenced by Dr. Uehashi's studies of creation myths as part of her cultural anthropology background.
Aside from the portrayal of an ancient culture, Moribito has much to offer readers. The characters such as the clever 30 year old body guard Balsa and her friend the sardonic but compassionate healer Tanda are sharply drawn. The plot, while intricate and convoluted is filled with martial arts action and palace intrigue.
Moribito has become a huge hit in Japan where it has spawned an anime series and 10 manga books in a series. This book should also become popular with young adults who enjoy character driven mangas that take place in ancient worlds.
D. Review Excerpts
Hornbook:
"In this vivid, suspenseful martial arts story, Balsa, a female bodyguard and skilled warrior, is hired to protect the Second Queen's son from assassins. The prince is the Moribito, host to a water spirit whose death would bring drought to the country. Despite some flat characters, the thrilling action and thoughtful prose create an intelligent and exciting fantasy."
Booklist:
Guardian will sell itself in booktalks: the story is intriguing, and Balsa is a smart, crotchety, fully realized heroine. Even the minor characters are interesting. Uehashi's Moribito series is enormously popular in Japan, and if the remaining nine stories are as enjoyable as this one, boys and girls here will be clamoring to read them.--
E.Connections
Young Adults and older children interested in Japanese culture and literature might try to attend a local anime and Japanese culture festival such as San Japan ( a San Antonio festival that features manga, anime and other aspects of Japanese culture.)
Look for these other books about young people on a quest in feudal Japan:
Haugaard,Erik Christian.The Boy and the Samurai. ISBN:9780618615117
Namioka,Lensay. The Den of the White Fox. ISBN: 9780152012830
Snow,Maya. Sisters of the Sword. ISBN: 9780061243882
Module 1 Book 2 Vendela in Venice-translated from Swedish.
A.Bibiliography:
Bjork,Christina and Eriksson Inga-Karin. Translated from the Swedish by Patricia Crampton. New York, NY: R& S books. ISBN: 9129 64559x.
B.Plot Summary:
Young Swede Vendela relives the magical and sometimes surprising week that she spent in Venice as a tourist with her father by compiling a scrapbook of postcards, memorabilia and diary like recollections.
C. Critical Analysis (with cultural markers.)
Vendela in Venice is about a Swedish girl,Vendela who vacations with her father in Venice. She appreciates the beauty of Venice and compares it to her native Stockholm.
The book tells of the monuments, museums, restaurants and churches of Venice but does not provide details about many Italians. The natives of Venice do notice the difference between themselves and the main characters of the book, Vendela and her Father. An Italian doctor nicknames Vendela,"ochi-blu" or blue eyes.
The book was originally written in Swedish for a Swedish audience. It is meant to show Swedes a portrait of Venice. It provides a glimpse of the life of the city as experienced by two Swedes.
The author does not idealize this famous tourist destination. Vendela complains about trash in the canals.
Readers are also introduced to a new language that is set apart. The Italian words are written in italics.
Bjork, the author is not writing about characters outside her own culture. Her main characters are from her own culture but are learning about a new culture as tourists. Thus the father and daughter of the story experience Italian culture but they are removed from it because they are tourists. Because they are tourists, they never experience Italian home life. The book does not try to depict a typical Italian home.
Not surprisingly the clothes worn by the Venetians and the Italians do not differ significantly. The facial features of the Swedes and the Venetians are not that different either.
The author does attempt to portray the lack of cultural familiarity when she shows the heroine's reactions to the less touristy aspects of Venice like the fishmarket where the fishmongers chop newly killed fish into pieces. Blood runs everywhere as the fishmongers complete their gruesome work. Vendela is shocked by this less than pretty aspect of the picturesque, tourist filled city. The author is careful to describe not only the historic Venice but the contemporary Venice with its modern day challenges such as garbage pick up and produce delivery. Vendela observes Italians delivering produce on a barge piled so high with tomatoes, that the produce topples.
The beautiful illustrations with collages of post cards, reproductions of famous Italian paintings and photo montages of landmarks like the stone lions of Venice create the feel of a travel journal with souvenirs glued inside. The beautifully detailed, vibrant watercolors of people and places, as well as little drawings on the bottoms of the pages also give the book the feel of a travel journal or an impromptu scrap book. Little bits of memorabilia such as drawings of ticket stubs and glass beads adorn the pages and add to the scrapbook effect. The endpapers of the book also include beautiful maps of Venice.
The author provides a helpful glossary of Italian words and fast facts in a final section entitled Things You Might Like to Know. There is also a list of adult books about Venice and a time line of important historical dates.
D. Review Excerpts
School Library Journal:
A must-read for armchair and actual travel enthusiasts, the book will also provide accurate and easily accessed data for reports.-
The Horn Book:
An enchanting introduction to the fabled Italian city, as seen by a Swedish child whose father takes her there for Easter vacation.
E.Connections:
Young adults and older children who enjoyed these books might want to find guide books about Venice.
Look for these other books about young travelers and travelogues:
Mauner,Claudia. Zoe Sophia's Scrapbook: An Adventure in Venice.
ISBN: 9780811836067
Knight,Joan. Charlotte in London.
ISBN: 9780811856355
McCauley, David. Rome Antics.
ISBN: 0395822793
Bjork,Christina and Eriksson Inga-Karin. Translated from the Swedish by Patricia Crampton. New York, NY: R& S books. ISBN: 9129 64559x.
B.Plot Summary:
Young Swede Vendela relives the magical and sometimes surprising week that she spent in Venice as a tourist with her father by compiling a scrapbook of postcards, memorabilia and diary like recollections.
C. Critical Analysis (with cultural markers.)
Vendela in Venice is about a Swedish girl,Vendela who vacations with her father in Venice. She appreciates the beauty of Venice and compares it to her native Stockholm.
The book tells of the monuments, museums, restaurants and churches of Venice but does not provide details about many Italians. The natives of Venice do notice the difference between themselves and the main characters of the book, Vendela and her Father. An Italian doctor nicknames Vendela,"ochi-blu" or blue eyes.
The book was originally written in Swedish for a Swedish audience. It is meant to show Swedes a portrait of Venice. It provides a glimpse of the life of the city as experienced by two Swedes.
The author does not idealize this famous tourist destination. Vendela complains about trash in the canals.
Readers are also introduced to a new language that is set apart. The Italian words are written in italics.
Bjork, the author is not writing about characters outside her own culture. Her main characters are from her own culture but are learning about a new culture as tourists. Thus the father and daughter of the story experience Italian culture but they are removed from it because they are tourists. Because they are tourists, they never experience Italian home life. The book does not try to depict a typical Italian home.
Not surprisingly the clothes worn by the Venetians and the Italians do not differ significantly. The facial features of the Swedes and the Venetians are not that different either.
The author does attempt to portray the lack of cultural familiarity when she shows the heroine's reactions to the less touristy aspects of Venice like the fishmarket where the fishmongers chop newly killed fish into pieces. Blood runs everywhere as the fishmongers complete their gruesome work. Vendela is shocked by this less than pretty aspect of the picturesque, tourist filled city. The author is careful to describe not only the historic Venice but the contemporary Venice with its modern day challenges such as garbage pick up and produce delivery. Vendela observes Italians delivering produce on a barge piled so high with tomatoes, that the produce topples.
The beautiful illustrations with collages of post cards, reproductions of famous Italian paintings and photo montages of landmarks like the stone lions of Venice create the feel of a travel journal with souvenirs glued inside. The beautifully detailed, vibrant watercolors of people and places, as well as little drawings on the bottoms of the pages also give the book the feel of a travel journal or an impromptu scrap book. Little bits of memorabilia such as drawings of ticket stubs and glass beads adorn the pages and add to the scrapbook effect. The endpapers of the book also include beautiful maps of Venice.
The author provides a helpful glossary of Italian words and fast facts in a final section entitled Things You Might Like to Know. There is also a list of adult books about Venice and a time line of important historical dates.
D. Review Excerpts
School Library Journal:
A must-read for armchair and actual travel enthusiasts, the book will also provide accurate and easily accessed data for reports.-
The Horn Book:
An enchanting introduction to the fabled Italian city, as seen by a Swedish child whose father takes her there for Easter vacation.
E.Connections:
Young adults and older children who enjoyed these books might want to find guide books about Venice.
Look for these other books about young travelers and travelogues:
Mauner,Claudia. Zoe Sophia's Scrapbook: An Adventure in Venice.
ISBN: 9780811836067
Knight,Joan. Charlotte in London.
ISBN: 9780811856355
McCauley, David. Rome Antics.
ISBN: 0395822793
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