book trailer-diamond willow

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countdown

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savvy

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stolen children

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Skeleton Creek

skeleton creek

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Summer Reading Works

The blog entry, 'Summer Reading Works', is very appropriate right now. We are just winding down our Summer Library Program and are looking forward to a small break before we jump into the autumn. Many people see the reading programs at the library as superfluous. Yes, these programs are fun and entertaining, but they are also helping kids to maintain their skills. There is a lot of research about how much kids who don't read lose skills during the summer. This amount is cumulative. They don't gain it back. The numbers are even higher for lower income students. Libraries are in a unique position to offer fun, entertaining programs that have an educational edge and function. We are lucky, we don't have to worry about educational standards and achievement scores. Librarians have the best job in the world. Bringing books and reading to our patrons.

We have a program called 'In Your Neighborhood'. One day each week of the summer I take 3 baskets of books and a cadre of volunteers, many of whom are teachers, and we go to the lower income apartments in town. For an hour these kids read one on one to a volunteer. Some kids have been coming to the program for 3 or 4 years and it is exciting to see them growing and reading better and better each summer. Those who need the library the most can't always get here. It is important to take the library to them. The blog states, "...librarians are doing significant, important work. That makes me smile every time I read it.

(2010, Aug. 5). Summer Reading Works. Retrieved from: http://www.alsc.ala.org/blog/

A Drowned Maiden's Hair: A Melodrama

A Drowned Maiden's Hair: A Melodrama
Schlitz, Laura Amy
ISBN 0-7636-2930-8

Maud longs to be adopted. When three older ladies come to the orphanage and want to take her home, Maud's heart soars. But, life in her new family is not what Maud dreamed about. The older ladies don't love Maud as a daughter, but as a new member of the family business. This novel has a great sense of place and the plot moves along at a nice pace.

Bud, Not Buddy

Bud, Not Buddy
Curtis, Christopher Paul
ISBN 0-385-32306-9

Winner of the 2000 Newbery Medal award, Bud, Not Buddy is the story of a boy trying to find his father and his place in the world. Running away from an orphanage and traveling on his own are just two of the reasons why this hero is tough and courageous. My favorite part of the book is the 'Rules and Things', we are privy to Bud's 10 year old wisdom.

Victory

Victory
Cooper, Susan
ISBN 978-1-4169-1477-8

This Junior Library Guild selection is set in two time periods, present day and 1805. As the story slides back and forth between the two time periods it also slides between the stories of Sam Robbins and Molly Jennings. The two lives become intertwined in a satisfying ending.

Gathering Blue

Gathering Blue
Lowry, Lois
ISBN 0-618-05581-9

Kira is damaged. She was born with a twisted leg and must prove her self sufficiency and worth. In Kira's society everyone is productive and helps or they are left in the field. When Kira's mother dies she is concerned about what will happen to her. How will she live and eat? This tale of a futuristic society is gripping and thought provoking.

The Giver

The Giver
Lowry, Lois
ISBN 0-440-23768-8

I have never read a book quite like this. Lois Lowry has a way of presenting a story that is very real and tangible. Jonas, the protagonist in the story, has been made the receiver of the memories. This assignment and the experiences it brings changes Jonas and the village forever.

Artemis Fowl

Artemis Fowl
Colfer, Eoin
ISBN 078680801-2

Artemis Fowl is a twelve year old boy. That is the only normal thing about Artemis. He is a genius, but not just any type of genius. Artemis is a criminal mastermind with the money and resources to carry out his nefarious plots. The series is a lot of fun and the audio book with Nathaniel Parker is great.

Chasing Vermeer

Chasing Vermeer
Balliett, Blue
ISBN 0-439-37294-1

This book works great for a book club. The illustrations have hidden pentominoes, which are mathematical tools made up of twelve pieces. Each piece is has an assigned letter. The reader can find the hidden pentominoes and decode the message. Other puzzles are contained throughout the book. The story itself is a bit reminiscent of the Westing Game with a list of usual suspects.

The Sherlock Files

The Sherlock Files
Barrett, Tracy
ISBN 978-0-8050-8340-8

Xander and Xena's great, great, great grandfather was Sherlock Holmes. They have been given a copy of his unsolved case file and want to see if they can bring a conclusion to some of them. This Junior Library Guild selection is an easy and fun read.

Facebook

www.facebook.com

Facebook is the most popular social networking site on the planet. Although the site was originally intended for students on college campuses, the site has evolved into much, much more. Technically, you must be 14 years old to make a Facebook account. Many kids/parents do not honor that rule and make accounts at younger ages. Facebook has become a way to have social capital. The more friends you have, the more popular you must be. Used properly Facebook is a great tool for keeping up with friends and family.

Runescape

http://www.runescape.com/

Runescape is an extremely popular multi-player online role playing game. Kids assume character/identities and play the game with friends or strangers. The medieval
universe that the game creates is pretty amazing and takes a lot of bandwidth.

The Underneath

The Underneath
Appelt, Kathi
ISBN 978-1-4169-5058-5

Friendship can be a mysterious thing, especially when it occurs between two unlikely candidates. A hound dog and a mother cat are very unlikely candidates, but these two understand loneliness and love. This understanding brings them together and gives us a story that is happy, sad, tragic, and encouraging all at the same time.

The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle

The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle
Avi
ISBN 0-531-05893-X

The year was 1832 and thirteen year old Charlotte was the only passenger on a trip from England to America. It was never going to be a fun trip, but no one expected Charlotte to be accused of murder. Master storyteller, Avi, writes a suspenseful, adventurous tale of one girl's unexpected summer.

I, Coriander

I, Coriander
Gardner, Sally
ISBN 0-8037-3099-3

I, Coriander is a wonderful fantasy wrapped around the time frame of the the English civil war. Coriander changes the course of her life when she puts on a pair of silver shoes that arrive unbidden at her door. Readers will enjoy the historical setting of the story mixed expertly with fantasy.

Gregor and the Prophecy of Bane

Gregor and the Prophecy of Bane
Collins, Suzanne
ISBN 0-439-65075-5

Gregor is back in the Underland for another adventure. In the first book we learned that Gregor is 'the warrior'. Reluctantly Gregor is learning about being 'the warrior', and amazingly, he can do things with his sword that was unknown to him. Ares, Luxa, Ripred and Vikus, the gang is all here for this wonderful sequel.

Yellow Star

Yellow Star
Roy, Jennifer
ISBN 978-0-7614-5277-5

This amazing account of Syvia and her family and their experience as Jews in the Lodz Ghetto is based on interviews with the author's aunt. This is the aunt's story. She was one of only 12 children who survived the ghetto during the war. Told in verse, the heart wrenching details are skillfully portrayed without being too dramatic or scary for the intended audience. This book is a must read for all students.

Bella at Midnight

Bella at Midnight
Stanley, Diane
ISBN 978-0-06-07753-5

This book is written is alternating voices between several characters. This device makes the book more interesting because we learn what others are thinking and their particular perspective.
Bella's mother dies right after childbirth. Her father, a knight is angry and unkind, he sends Bella to live with another family and doesn't want anything to do with her. The woman who is raising Bella was also the wet nurse to Prince Julian. Bella and Prince Julian become great friends as they grow up with Bella thinking that she is the daughter of peasants. A great war rages between this kingdom and the neighboring kingdom. This war is almost 100 years old. A prophecy exists that calls for a white knight to ride through the battlefield and bring peace to everyone. The author Diane Stanley does a great job weaving a web with many different characters and ultimately bringing them all together.

Deep and Dark and Dangerous

Deep and Dark and Dangerous
Hahn, Margaret Downing
ISBN 9780618665457

Spending the summer babysitting your cousin at the family lake house sounds like a great idea. But, Ali's summer does not turn out how she planned. In the past the family abruptly stopped going to the lake house and no one talks about why. Thirteen year old Ali and cousin Emma meet Sissy at the lake house. Sissy is rude and pushy and won't leave them alone. Ali uncovers an old family secret about a girl who was friends with her mother and aunt, that died in the lake. As Ali begins to uncover the deep, hidden family secret, Sissy becomes more and more rude and difficult to be around. Sissy lures the girls onto the lake as a storm is approaching. Will Ali use her good sense or will she yield to Sissy and her sarcastic ways? Margaret Downing Hahn can spin a great ghost tale and Deep and Dark and Dangerous is no exception.

Eperanza Rising

Esperanza Rising
Pam Munoz Ryan
ISBN 9780439120425

Esperanza lives with her parents on El Rancho de las Rosas in Mexico. They are successful grape farmers. Esperanza leads a charmed life with servants, beautiful dresses and the love of her parents. All that changes when her father is killed and the ranch burns down. Faced with ruin, Esperanza, her mother and their servants travel to California to be farm workers. The work is exhausting and Esperanza no longer has toys, lovely dresses or even a home. Mama becomes very sick and must be taken to the hospital. Esperanza must grow up quickly and become the wage earner and help pay for food, lodging and Mama's hospital expenses. The journey Esperanza takes is physical and emotional. Many lessons are learned along the path, some easier than others.
Pam Munoz Ryan includes an afterward that talks about Mexican farm workers in California at that time and how they were treated. She also includes a recipe and craft included in the story.

GL:Girls's Life Magazine

GL: The Magazine for Girls is the quintessential tween magazine. It features fashion, movie stars, advice on friends and boyfriends, and cosmetics. The look is glossy and bright and a little reminiscent of Vogue. There are tons of advertisements for clothes, shoes, kotex, deodorant and milk. Most of the pictures feature skinny to thin girls and not too much diversity. Out of two issues there was one picture of an overweight person and 4 pictures of persons of color. Magazines are fun to sit and peruse and find your horoscope. GL fills that niche quite well. The magazine did not have any scantily clad girls or embarrassing body parts hanging out. Flipping through a GL is like spending and afternoon with a comfortable girlfriend.

Hate That Cat: A Novel

Hate That Cat
Creech, Sharon
ISBN 9780061430923

Hate That Cat is a masterfully told tale written in verse, mostly with very short lines that Jack would approve of. Jack is grieving the loss of his dog. As the novel progresses he slowly opens his heart to the idea of a new cat. Along the way Jack learns about poetry and poets. The reader learns right along with Jack. That is the remarkable aspect of this book, readers are learning about poetry without knowing it, Uncle Bill would be proud! The back of the book has a section containing the poems Sharon Creech refers to in the story. I love this book!

Midnight Magic

Midnight Magic
Avi
ISBN 0590360353

Mangus, Fabrizio's master is called to the castle one dark and stormy night by Count Scarazoni. The Count takes them to the castle. Mangus used to be Mangus the Magician, but fell out of the king's favor and is now forbidden to practice magic in any way. Fabrizio loves his master and will do whatever he can to protect and keep him safe. Thrust into the middle of royal political intrigue Mangus and Fabrizio must use the forbidden magic to free the princess from a ghost or face execution. Add into this mix the disappearance of the next in line to the throne, Prince Lorenzo. Avi spins an intricate web that is suspenseful and satisfying.

Shakespeare Secret

Shakespeare's Secret
Broach, Elise
ISBN 0805073876

Hero doesn't make friends easily, not like her sister Beatrice. She hates being the new girl, again. It's always the same. After a month Beatrice is best buddies with the popular crowd and Hero is just, well, on her own. Hero makes friends with her elderly next door neighbor, Mrs. Roth. It is Mrs. Roth who tells Hero about the diamond necklace that is reportedly hidden inside Hero's house. This mystery causes Hero to cross paths with Danny Cordova the cutest, most popular kid at school. Together they try to put together the clues and find the diamond necklace.
Author, Elise Broach weaves a wonderful mystery and introduces tween readers to Shakespeare and the intriguing authorship question.

The Puzzling World of Winston Breen

The Puzzling World of Winston Breen
Berlin, Eric
ISBN 9780142413883

Winston Breen loves puzzles. He solves them all the time, he sees them everywhere, in wrapping paper, on cereal boxes, everywhere. When Winston sees the four rectangular wooden pieces, each with writing on them, he knows they are part of a bigger puzzle. Enter the town librarian, Mrs. Lewis, Two suspicious men, David North and Mickey Glowacka, and an over-sized policeman named Marietta. Each have a connection to the rectangular wooden puzzle pieces, and have their own pieces to add to the puzzle. They must work together to solve the puzzle and find an expensive ring.
This book is fun and full of puzzles, literally. Author Eric Berlin creates puzzles for the New York Times and has included several throughout the book. This is a great book club selection.

Stolen Children

Stolen Children
Kehret, Peg
ISBN 978-0-525-47835-5

Amy, a fourteen year old, has just finished a babysitting course. When Mrs. Edgerton calls for a last minute fill in for the nanny Amy is excited. Kendra Edgerton, her three year old charge is a sweet little girl and very cooperative. This is going to be easy! Amy puts Kendra down for a nap and heads out to lay by the pool with the baby monitor in tow. A while later Amy realizes she fell asleep too and rises to check on Kendra. The monitor is quiet, so Amy assumes she is still asleep. Unfortunately, Kendra is not in her bed, nor in the house anywhere, or outside. Just as Amy is trying to decide what to do a man approaches her, he has Kendra as well. The girls are put into a van and driven off.
Amy is a worthy heroine. She keeps herself and Kendra safe and works toward escaping. This compelling story of courage under pressure is a must read.

How to Steal a Dog

How to Steal a Dog
O'Connor, Barbara
ISBN 9780374334970

Middle school can be tough, for Georgina it just got a lot worse. Her father abandoned the family and now they have been evicted from their apartment. Now Georgina, her mom and little brother live in their car behind the auto parts store. At least that's where they are parked tonight. They have to keep moving around so they are not noticed and asked to leave. Keeping all of this a secret is hard, they wash up in gas station bathrooms and their clothes are stained and dirty. Georgina has a plan. If they can steal a dog and get the reward money, then they can afford to move back into an apartment. As with life, Georgina's plan hits some bumps and things don't work out as planned, but they do work out for the better. This is a great book to read aloud to a classroom. The discussion that it provokes will be edifying for all.

Diamond Willow

Diamond Willow
Frost, Helen ISBN
9780374317768

This is one of my all time favorite books. It is written in verse primarily shaped like diamonds. The author has also placed a message within the verse on each page in bold type that is meaningful to that particular page.
Diamond Willow is a coming of age story. Twelve year old Willow lives with her family in a small town in the middle of Alaska. Willow wants to be taken seriously, she wants to be treated as the grown up like she feels. A trip by dog sled to her grandparents house ends up having serious consequences. Faced with a life or death circumstance Willow makes a decision that has far reaching effects. We learn and grow as much from our failures as our successes. Willow learns about family, courage and mostly herself.

Fever 1793

Fever 1793
Anderson Laurie Halse
ISBN 0689848919

In America we don't have much experience with epidemics. The closest we have come lately is the H1N1 flu. In the late 18th century things were much different. People didn't really understand how yellow fever started or spread. One thing was for sure, once it started death and destruction was a certainty.
Mattie Cook lives in Philadelphia with her mother and grandfather where they run a respectable coffee shop. Life turns upside down as the fever spreads through the city. Mattie's mother becomes sick and sends her to the countryside to stay with relatives. Unable to reach her destination Mattie becomes ill and eventually returns to the city. She is unprepared for the sight and smell of death and illness. Rising to the occasion to help her family, Mattie is a strong female character, one that we can be proud of.
Laurie Halse Anderson writes a compelling story educates as well as entertains.

Because of Winn-Dixie

Because of Winn-Dixie
DiCamillo, Kate
ISBN 0763607762

India Opal Buloni lives with her father, the preacher, in a small Southern Florida town. Trying to deal with the fact her mother left them India opens her heart to this new community and especially to her grocery store dog, Winn-Dixie. Immediately fast friends, India Opal and Winn-Dixie help each other learn about relationships and life. Populated with interesting characters like Otis, the ex-con who owns the pet store and serenades the animals. Miss Franny the town librarian who passes out Littmus Lozenges, and Gloria Dump, the closest thing India Opal has to a mother. This novel is a must read, it is heartwarming, sad and full of truths about the human existence. India Opal has a lot to teach us.

Sent

Sent
Haddix, Margaret Peterson
ISBN 9781416954224

Jonah and Chip are out of time, literally. They were kidnapped as babies from their place in time and put into the 21st century. Now time must be fixed and history preserved. But who are Jonah and Chip? In Sent we find out that Chip is Edward the fifth, King of England. Jonah, Chip and Katherine travel through time back to 15th century England. They must correct time even it it means Chip as the King of England dies. Is it possible to save Chip's life and preserve history?
We must wait until book 3 of The Missing series to find out who Jonah really is, but Margaret Peterson Haddix makes it worth the wait. She is one of the prolific children's writers of our time.

Found

Found Haddix
Margaret Peterson
ISBN 9781416954217

What if one day the world as you know it changed? I'm not talking about end of the world scenarios or catastrophic natural disasters. What if your world, who you are, where your from, was suddenly a lie? Jonah knows he is adopted, and he's okay with it. But, he keeps receiving strange notes in the mail saying he is one of "the missing". Next he starts seeing people appear and disappear. There has to be a rational explanation for this, right? Jonah, his younger sister Katherine and his best friend Chip try to figure out what is happening and why. This journey leads them to a quite unexpected place and time.
Margaret Peterson Haddix is a master story teller and this latest book is no different. Engaging, suspenseful and original "The Missing" is one series you don't want to miss.

Ghost in the Machine

Ghost in the Machine
Carman, Patrick
ISBN 978-0545075701

Sarah and Ryan are more determined than ever to find out what is happening at the dredge. Especially now that it is scheduled to be destroyed. What secrets are going to die with the building? After an encounter with the ghost Sarah and Ryan step up their investigation. There seems to be a secret society in town and Ryan's dad is part of it. Is he a good guy or a bad guy? The doctor is found dead, was it a natural causes? Sarah and Ryan are in over their heads, but a lot is at stake. Read this concluding sequel to find out the secrets in the dredge.
This book also has the video diary element. The story ends with the final video diary entry. Access to the Internet is a must. Patrick Carman has written many books for tween readers to include one of the Thirty Nine Clues. His books are a great choice for reluctant readers.

Skeleton Creek

Skeleton Creek
Carman, Patrick
ISBN 9780545075664

This is a fantastic book! Suspenseful, scary, and well written, but, it also has another element, a video diary. Let's start from the beginning. The book is written in a diary format by fifteen year old Ryan. His best friend Sarah is a video wizard. She chronicles her life and other subjects with her camera instead of a pen. Sarah sends Ryan videos through out the book. The plot does not require that you watch the videos, but they make the story more interesting and scary.
Ryan is stuck in bed with an injury, but he won't tell us exactly how he got hurt. It has something to do with Sarah and the dredge. The town of Skeleton Creek is not a friendly place. If anyone new comes to town, they do not stay long. Tucked away in the forest is the dredge, it is said to be haunted, just watch the video! Sarah and Ryan are convinced that something fishy is going on at there. They embark on a fact finding mission that doesn't end they way they planned. This book is a must read!

Gregor the Overlander

Gregor the Overlander
Collins, Suzanne
ISBN 0439435366

Gregor is your average 11 year old. He lives in an apartment in New York City with his mother, senile grandmother and two younger sisters. His father, well that's a difficult subject. About 3 years ago his dad just disappeared, no note, no good bye, nothing. With his dad gone life is harder. His mom works full-time now and Gregor has to help take care of his grandma and sisters. While Gregor is in the basement laundry room with Boots, his two year old sibling his adventure is about to begin.
In an Alice in Wonderland type of situation, Gregor and Boots find themselves in the Underland. This strange place is populated with giant spiders, cockroaches, bats and rats that talk or communicate with humans. And the humans, they are transparent skinned with violet eyes. Gregor just wants to get Boots and himself home. But there is a problem that ties in with his missing father and a prophecy about a warrior. This tale of self discovery and determination is a must read for boys and girls alike. Suzanne Collins, author of the Hunger Games has created an exciting universe populated with fascinating beings and great adventure.

Are iPads, smartphones, and the Mobile Web rewiring the way we think?

The idea that technology usage is rewiring our brains is a provocative thought. I must admit feelings of ambivalence towards the topic. Just when I am ready to take a side, a new piece of information muddys the water for me again. It seems logical that when kids spend a lot of time staring at a screen that their brains are being affected. Really though, it is not just the involvement of a screen, but what are they doing? Are they mindlessly using the computer to watch videos or television shows? Did they use some level of knowledge to find these programs? Part of the argument is that reading online is only skimming. People don't go as deep because they are clicking here and there, taking hyperlinks to new sources. But, wait a minute. What about the skill of being able to find information? Surfing from one site to the next trying to find things takes some structured thinking.
The Internet and computers are being compared to the invention of the printing press. Yes, it's that big. People's habits and behaviors were changed by such a wonderful invention. There was uncertainty at first, (oh no, the masses will be able to read!) In the end though, it turned out pretty good. Change is hard, especially change on this massive of a scale. Yes, we are going to do things differently and our children may even approach things differently. This is a good thing. Progress is important to our quality of life. Sure there will be some bumps in the road, but every time you pick up a printed source remember it is worth it.

Lamb, G. M. (2010, 7/24). Are iPads, smartphones, and the Mobile Web rewiring the way we think?The Christian Science Monitor. Retrieved from: http://www.csmonitor.com/Innovation/Tech/2010/0724/Are-iPads-smartphones-and-the-Mobile-Web-rewiring-the-way-we-think.

The Shamer's Signet

The Shamer's Signet
Kaaberbol, Lene
0805075429

This is the second novel in the Shamer Chronicles. Dina Tonerre and her older brother Davin both narrate the story with the voice alternating between the various chapters. This is an effective device that gives the story more depth because we know what two of the main characters are thinking. Davin is sixteen and struggling with becoming a man. This is not easy for any boy, but Davin has no father and is now living among the Kensie clan needing to prove himself while trying to break away from his family, learn sword fighting and gain some independence. The author uses this tension between childhood and adulthood to move the plot along in surprising ways. Dina experiences her own struggles as an evil lord tries to use her gift as a shamer as his own personal weapon. Again there are a few curse words and the mood is serious. This book should appeal to boys and girls because of the dual narration and the medieval setting. There are four books in this series and I am excited to read the last two. Hopefully Lene Kaaberbol will continue to write in this genre.

The Shamer's Daughter

The Shamer's Daughter
Kaaberbol, Lene
0805075410

The Shamer's Daughter was written in Danish and translated by the author into English. Dina, the narrator and protagonist of the story is almost eleven, but her adventures and the subject matter seem a tiny bit mature for a ten almost eleven-year-old. There are a couple minor curse words that do not detract from the story. This is basically a tale of good versus evil. Good as usually triumphs, but not without a certain amount of heartache. Dina Tonerre and her mother are 'shamers'. When an individual looks into their eyes all of the bad things a person has done vividly comes to mind leaving the person feeling ashamed and vulnerable. The person cannot lie to a shamer or hide any thoughts. For this reason most people won't look Dina and Melussina Tonerre, her mother in the eyes. The town doesn't consider them outcasts, but doesn't welcome them either. Melussina is summoned to a distant town to test a criminal to see if he is lying, when she doesn't return a rider comes for Dina and they both are swept into political intrigue that they may not survive. This book has it all, special abilities, dragons, adventure and action. A really good read!

Pokemon as an Educational Tool

The Pokemon Generation: Building Lesson Plans Around a Gaming Environment Creates Effective Learning by J.P. Porcaro is a must read for all teachers in conjunction with Marc Prensky's Digital Natives, Digital Immigrants. The Digital Natives article makes the case that students learn differently these days because of their digital backgrounds.Their brains have been rewired and the traditional read the text, lecture, and take a test method is outdated and ineffective. Today's generation of teacher did not grow up in the same digital context and is therefore a Digital Immigrant. The correlation is made between a typical immigrant and the digital. Because of this difference in technological backgrounds teachers speak a different language and operate at a slower speed than their students.
The Pokemon Generation makes the case for using Pokemon, the most popular video game ever as "a valuable tool for teaching lessons across the curriculum." To see the value in this idea you must understand the basic premise of the game. The player takes a 'journey' to collect Pokemons then trains them using information learned in the game. The Pokemon brand has become much more than just a video game, there is a television program and many books to include graphic novels and beginning readers. Children are so immersed in the Pokemon world that they do not realize they are engaging in educational activities. Curriculum based on this model fits the idea of a Digital Native. It's hard to argue with this logic, "The goal of education is learning, and if gaming can help students learn more effectively, why aren't we doing it already?" So many students are bored with school or struggling. It would be great to have more techniques and lesson plans that excited the student about learning. Students are involved in these games, some on a daily basis at home. Being literate about gaming is another spoke in the wheel of being a Digital Native and part of what being literate means to this generation.

Prensky, M., (2001). Digital Native, Digital Immigrants. On the Horizon, Vol. 9, No. 5. Retrieved from: https://liffey.sjsu.edu/section/default.asp?id=SUMMER_2010-SJSU-SLIS_74

Porcaro, J., (2010). The Pokemon Generation: Building Lesson Plans Around a Gaming Environment Creates Effective Learning. School Library Journal. Retrieved from: http://www.schoollibraryjournal.com/slj/home/884750-312/the_pokemon_generation.html.csp

Countdown

Countdown
Mikaelsen, Ben
978078681208

What would it feel like to be the first junior astronaut and train with real astronauts at NASA and go on an actual space shuttle mission. That is exactly what happens to fourteen year old Elliot Schroeder. He leaves his home on a ranch in Montana and begins training with alternate Mandy Harris. Elliot's desire to be the first junior astronaut clouds his judgment and he makes some choices that are not positive. Ultimately through his relationship with Mandy and their shared experiences Elliot learns to be a team player. A highlight of the story is Vincent Ole Tome, a Maasi herder from Maasiland, Africa. Vincent and Elliot share many connections that culmination with their communication and final face to face meeting. The dual storyline adds meaning to the emotional changes that are happening as each boy is growing older and more independent. This book is great for boys or girls, it is adventurous, introspective and has three strong characters.

Boys' Quest

Boys' Quest magazine is a monthly themed periodical targeted to boys age 6 to 14. That is a really wide age span to cover. Usually what interests a 6 year old is quite different than what is of interest to a 14 year old. In my opinion much of the content will be above a 6 to 7 year olds head. The reading level of this magazine is 9 or 1o years old. A child who is younger will need the assistance of an adult or older child to enjoy the information and activities the magazine has to offer. With that said, many of the illustrations are targeted toward the younger ages. Even though the information and format is accessible and usable, the magazine needs to decide on a specific target group and focus on that. On the positive side, the periodical is a nice size. Measuring approximately 9 inches by 7 inches it is easy to hang onto and carry around. And, featured prominently on the first page is a statement of purpose explaining the goals of the publication. Whether they meet these goals is a matter of debate, but a magazine with such lofty goals is worth checking out.

American Girl Magazine

This is a quality magazine targeted towards girls ages 8 to 12. These magazines are full of contributions from its readers highlighting special skills or qualities. It is important for self esteem to feel like you have something to give and share. The pictures, stories and opinions from readers is one of the things that sets this publication apart from the rest of the pack. There is no emphasis on boyfriends or the best jeans for your butt. This is girlhood at its best. American Girl promotes friendship and self expression with issues full of craft ideas and projects. Advice given consists of how to deal with telling your friend you don't like their new shirt to babysitting tips. The American Girl brand is about more than selling dolls, although that is a big part. They have become a resource for girls and a cheerleader for good old fashioned girlhood.

Raleigh's Page

Raleigh's Page
Armstrong, Alan
9780375833199

Tradition and law requires that the first born son inherit from the father. This leaves daughters and later sons with a need to find a husband or a living. Andrew Saintleger is a second son who at eleven must find an apprenticeship. His father makes arrangements for Andrew to be a page in Sir Walter Raleigh's house. Author, Alan Armstrong gives a very sensitive portrayal of Andrew as he leaves all that he knows and travels far from home to live with strangers and prove that he is able and strong. Adventure eventually takes Andrew much farther than London as he is included in a voyage to the new world.
The author's research is exhaustive and impressive. He lists the primary source documents used for the book and bits of further historical information. This novel was engaging and exciting, I couldn't put it down.

All the Lovely Bad Ones

All the Lovely Bad Ones
Hahn, Mary Downing
9780547248783

Anne of Green Gables remarks that she likes to be "deliciously scared". All the Lovely Bad Ones provide an opportunity for readers to be just that. Corey and Travis, troublemakers by their own admission are sent to spend the summer with their Grandma at her bed and breakfast in the Vermont hills. After finding out some people think the inn is haunted, Corey and Travis stage a ghost sighting. Unfortunately, this little prank awakens the ghosts and they being to haunt the inn relentlessly. The inn has a tragic past and Corey and Travis will have to put an end to what they started. Mary Downing Hahn is a master story teller in this genre. She knows just how far to push without going over the edge. Whether you are a believer or not, this story will have you listening for bumps in the night and sleeping with a light on.

Lucky Breaks

Lucky Breaks
Patron, Susan
9781416939986

Susan Patron gives us another glimpse of Hard Pan, California, with it's population of 43. The desert surrounding Hard Pan is bleak and desolate, but the community is alive and loving and home to Lucky. Lucky is excited to turn eleven and knows an adventure just has to be around the corner. What Lucky really desires is a best friend. Yes, she has almost six year old Miles and knot master Lincoln, but a girl needs a girlfriend to whisper secrets and laugh at private jokes.
The birthday girl gets her wish when Paloma come to town to visit. Through Paloma's friendship Lucky learns to appreciate Miles and Lincoln. She also realizes that wishing for an adventure and the fulfillment of that adventure are not always the same. Sometimes we think people have changed, when actually we have grown and changed.

H. I. V. E.: The Overlord Protocol

H. I. V. E.: The Overlord Protocol
Walden, Mark
9781416935735

Otto Malpense and his three friends are back for another adventure. In a nice change of setting, the majority of this book takes place outside of H. I. V. E. The plot gets serious really fast as Otto's best friend Wing is murdered. Again the theme of a powerful youth prevailing in difficult circumstances is pervasive throughout the story. Building on the characters from the first book, a few take on a larger role and become more fully formed. Mark Walden gives us strong male and female characters allowing both boys and girls to connect to the story. The Overlord Protocol is shrouded in mystery. It was a form of artificial intelligence that went awry. As far as everyone knows the protocol was destroyed many years ago. But was it? And why is it important?

A Teen Remembers

A Teen's Take On Tween Online Communities is a refreshing article. So much of what I have been reading is based on experts, teachers, and psychologists telling me what is happening in the tween world. Now I've got it 'straight from the horse's mouth. Don't get me wrong, I value the professional opinions and research, but it's a good idea to go to the source. Julia, a freshman in high school is not long past tweendom, so her insights are especially relevant. And surprisingly, social networking is the thing.
Before Facebook and MySpace there is a myriad of websites that tweens can learn their social networking skills. Julia's explanation of how these younger social networking sites operate was very informative. I don't have much experience with them and after reading this article the allure is much clearer. "A player gets an avatar and a house, and then plays games to earn currency to purchase more outfits, and furniture. While this might sound boring to adults, it can be appealing for a child who doesn’t have real world purchasing power, especially when combined with addicting casual games." Sounds like Farmville on Facebook. So much of the tween discussion centers on purchasing power and marketing. Business have been vilified for their aggressive marketing to tweens, but now we see that they want to flex the purchasing power that they have. Tweens are bombarded with so much 'stuff'. They are told they need, can't live without certain things or they are not 'cool'. It is so important for parents to be involved. If a tween doesn't have that involved parent then hopefully another adult will step in the gap and help guide them through.
Back to Julia. Julia claims that no matter how many safeguards are put into place on these websites, tweens will find a way to push and bend the rules if they really want. I appreciate her honestly. It is like teens and driving. They know what the speed limit is, but they just have to push that boundary. For the most part, the majority of tweens are appropriately using social networking, just as many teens are safe drivers. Let's give our kids credit, they do a great job even though the media only reports the negative.

H.I.V.E. Higher Institute of Villainous Education

H.I.V.E. Higher Institute of Villainous Education
Walden, Mark
978416935711

A school that trains students to be either henchmen, techno savvy criminals, or crime bosses. This is Harry Potter, (Otto Malpense is an orphan) meets Artemis Fowl at Hogwarts, oops I mean H.I.V.E. That is not to say this book is not worth reading, it is, but the similarities are easy to spot.
How does a student end up at such a school? Good question. Many students are kidnapped or taken against their families wishes. Few are following in the family's footsteps and are actually sent by their parents. If a child shows 'potential' then he or she is sought out and brought to the school.
This story is lively and exciting.Otto makes friends with Wing, Shelby and Laura. Each with special talents that landed them a spot at H.I.V.E. Good children's fiction shows kids as powerful beings with the ability to work through obstacles and be successful. This success can be a physical challenge or personal growth for a character. This is the first book in a series of six and author Mark Walden does a great job setting the stage for further adventures.

Savvy

Savvy
Law, Ingrid
9780803733060

Turning 13 is never easy, bodies are changing, emotions are racing and the world becomes a different place. There is an added layer of complication for the Beaumonts. On their 13th birthday, they get their savvy.
Heartwarming and honest, this book chronicles Mibs Beaumont as she leaves childhood and enters the unknown territory of being a teenager. A savvy is a talent unique to each individual, but getting it can be complicated and dangerous. Mibs and her family are unsure what will happen on her 13th birthday. Unfortunately Mibs father is injured and her birthday is overshadowed by events out of her control. The physical journey Mibs, her brother and new friends embark on is parallel to the changes taking place inside. When the bus finally arrives at the hospital in Salina no one is the same.
This book full of a special kind of magic, but rooted in reality. Do savvys really exist? Do we each have a special gift or talent that makes us unique? Savvy reinforces the fact that we are all unique and gifted in our own way and can create our own brand of magic.