Chapter+Book+Log

Picture Book Log

Chapter Books! I consider anything that is not a true 'picture' book to be a chapter book. Books fall under one of two categories- Elementary and early middle school, or upper middle and high school.

Running Total: 42

Elementary/ Early Middle School Level Chapter Books:

Realistic Fiction: Blume, J. (1971). // Freckle juice //. New York: Dell Publishing. Realistic Fiction Andrew Marcus falls for a trick when he decides he desperately wants freckles. In this light-hearted story, Andrew learns that he is special just the way he is. This is a great story to use with younger children to talk about being proud of who you are and discovering your self-identity. Andrew had wanted freckles, but he realized that even the kid who had freckles was not happy with them. This is a great book to spark a discussion with kids on how to accept yourself for who you are- freckles or no freckles. Interest: 3-5 AR Level: 3.1

Cleary, B. (1998). //Dear Mr. Henshaw.// New York: Scholastic Inc. Realistic Fiction A young boy, Leigh Botts, finds himself as a person and an author through writing letters to a famous author, Mr. Henshaw. Through his letters, Leigh learns to handle his parent's divorce, his relationship with his mom, and his dad's choice to drive a truck. He eventually finds his passion for writing and develops an understanding of life-both the good and the bad.

This book would be excellent to use in the classroom to talk about difficult problems in life- divorce, and friendship. Students also see Leigh develop on his journey as an author and he serves as an excellent inspiration for young writers. Interest: 4-6 AR Level: 4.9

 Cleary, B. (1984). // Ramona forever. // New York: Scholastic.  Realistic Fiction  Ramona, a beloved classic character, finds herself older and not liking having to stay with Mrs. Kemp after school. Along with her sister, she is allowed to stay home. Things are going well until the cat, Ping-Ping, dies, the girls find out their mother is pregnant, their father cannot find a job, and their Aunt Bea decides to marry annoying Hobart Kemp. In the end, everything is resolved and Ramona winds up saving the day at her Aunt Bea's wedding.

 I'm not sure I would use this book in the classroom to teach anything. This would be a great book for students to read and to have available in our classroom library. it was a cute story, but I see no real basis for teaching a meaningful concept.  Interest: 3-5  AR Level: 4.8

Clements, A. (1996). //Frindle//. New York: Simon & Schuster Books For Young Readers. Realistic Fiction Clever “idea man”, Nick Allen, who is known for creating diversions in the classroom, finally meets his match in 5th grader teacher, Mrs. Granger. In a battle of words and wits, Mrs. Granger and Nick clash over Nick’s newly invented word for pen – the frindle. Frindle mania sweeps the nation much to Mrs. Granger’s chagrin. Years later, after the dust settles, both teacher and student realize the profound impact they had on each other’s lives.

This humorous, thought provoking story provides teachers and students discussion topics on standing up for your beliefs, individuality, building relationships, respect, and making contributions. Interest: 4-6 AR Level: 5.4

DiCamillo, K. (2000). //Because of Winn-Dixie.// Cambridge, MA: Candlewick Press. Realistic Fiction When 10 year old, Opal moves to Naomi, Florida, she didn’t expect to meet the whimsical dog, Winn-Dixie. Winn-Dixie introduces Opal to the more unique residences of the town, helps her gain courage to ask her father tough questions about the abandonment of her mother, and to find love and acceptance in the world. This an excellent story to address topics such as friendship, loneliness, abandonment, acceptance, and a sense of belonging. Students will easily connect to the main characters as they deal with the difficult issues addressed in the text. Interest: 4-6 AR Level: 3.9

Estes, E. (1944). // The hundred dresses //. Orlando, FL: Harcourt Brace & Company. Realistic Fiction Wanda Petronski owns only one dress- a shabby, blue one; yet, she claims to have one hundred, all lined up in her closet. Two other girls who thought it was a game to make fun of her, learn important lessons about how to treat others and that there is more to people than meets the eye when Wanda moves out of town. This is a touching story about the drama between girls and the importance of standing up for what is right- even if it costs you a friendship. Interest: 2-5 AR Level: 5.4

Konigsburg, E. L. (1967). //From the mixed up files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler//. New York: Atheneum. Realistic Fiction Claudia, on a search to erase the ordinary from her life, recruits her brother Jamie and heads of on a journey of a lifetime to none other than New York City. With carefully laid plans, she and her brother hide out in the Metropolitan Museum of Art for a week. It is during that time that the children find themselves swept up in a museum mystery of a small sculpture believed to have been sculpted by Michaelangelo himself. Determined to solve the mystery, Claudia researches endlessly and finds the answer to not only the mystery of the sculpture, but the question of who she is.

This book was so enjoyable! The simple fact that the children got away with living in a museum for a week is a fantasy-come-true for many children. How fun it was to put myself in Claudia's shoes! The issue of finding your self-identity is an important one for children and this book does a great job of illustrating how Claudia unexpectedly found the difference she was hoping for. Konigsburg writes beautifully and comically and the characters are realistic and believable. I recommend this book to students any day and enjoy once again being swept up in the awesome journey Claudia and Jamie embarked on. Newberry Award Winner Interest: 3-6 AR Level: 4.7

Lord, C. (2006). // Rules //. New York: Scholastic Press. Realistic Fiction “What is normal?” is a question that twelve year old, Catherine grapples with throughout this candidly told story about an autistic brother, a set of rules to live by, a budding friendship with a mute paraplegic boy, and the new neighbor girl. In the end, Catherine realizes that her “rules” are just excuses that keep her from accepting her life and the ones in it.

A sensitive tale that help readers take a closer look into being/feeling different, sibling relationships, family dynamics, disabilities, friendship, acceptance, and a sense of belonging. This is a powerful tool to use with students to discuss the difficult, but relative subject matter of how we view others and ourselves. Interest: 4-7 AR Level: 3.9

McDonald, M. (2005). // Stink: The incredible shrinking kid //. Somerville, MA: Candlewick Press. Shrink, Judy Moody's little brother, had a problem: he is shrinking! He has always been shorter than everyone, but one morning he discovers he is a whole 1/4 inch shorter than normal. In dealing with his shortness, he discovers his commonalities with President James Madison and discovers that being short does not mean you cannot do great things.

This early chapter book is great for kids! McDonald frequently repeats sentences and phrases that provides support for early readers. Each chapter is accompanied with its own cartoon sequence featuring Shrink defeating the Shrink Monster. This cute and inspirational story can be used as a springboard to discuss how being different is special and how sometimes what you think of as a negative thing can actually turn out to be quite positive. Interest: 3-5 AR Level: Not Available

 ** Naylor, P. R. (2000). // Shiloh //. New York, NY: Scholastic. ** ** Realistic Fiction ** ** In this emotion-laden book, Marty Preston finds in the woods what he has always wanted- a dog. The only problem is that the dog is not his- it is owned by the mean Judd Travers. In his quest to save the dog, which he names Shiloh, from Judd, Marty realizes just how far he will go and learns much about himself, his family, and how to view others. **

** This book is written in the vernacular of West Virginian country folk. It is a great book to expose children to author's style and voice and discuss the power of using such techniques. Also, Marty shows just how hard he is willing to fight for something he loves, a great discussion to have with kids about morals and whether it is ok to lie if your intentions are to save someone or something. I can't wait to discuss this with kids and see how they would respond. ** ** *A Newberry Medal Winner ** ** Interest: 3-5 ** ** AR Level: 8.5 **

Park, B. (2002). // Junie B., first grader: Boss of lunch //. New York: Random House Realistic Fiction Junie B. Jones, an adorable first-grader who has a spunky attitude, gets a rare opportunity to work as a helper in the lunch room. After she brags that she is "boss" of the cafeteria workers and helps keep germs and hairs out of the food, her friends lose their appetite and decide not to eat lunch. Her friends are furious at her and she loses her job as helper. With the help of her favorite lunch lady, Mrs. Gutzman, Junie is redeemed when she helps pass out boxes of fresh sugar cookies to the class!

This is a very cute book for students to read. It can help them to realize that is not acceptable to brag and you have to work hard to earn and keep privileges. Children will enjoy the characters in the book and be able to connect them with students in their class. A very humorous and enjoyable book! Interest: 2-4 AR Level: 2.8

<span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"> Paterson, Katerine. (1978). // The great gilly hopkins //. New York, NY: The Trumpet Club. Realistic Fiction Gilly Hopkins, a tough-skinned little girl, successfully finds her way out of foster homes with her voracious attitude and the never-ending hope that her mother will one day come to her rescue. It is only until being placed in a surprising foster home with a variety of personalities that Gilly discovers who she really is while also learning to accept the tough realities of life. This book is a great one to teach the value of relationships of all types. Gilly is a bully turned tender-hearted, and her journey is a great one to share and discuss with students. This book also lends to discussions about how life doesn’t always hand us happy endings- no matter how badly we want them. Interest: 4-6 AR Level: 4.6

Reynolds, J.G. (1999). //Stone fox//. New York, NY: Scholastic. Realistic Fiction Little Willy must be creative when his grandfather falls sick and the duty of saving the family potato farm falls in his hands. Little Willy finds courage and learns important lessons when he takes the responsibility into his own hands.

This is a wonderful book to teach responsibility, determination, goal-setting, and how to handle tough situations that life may bring. Interest: 4-5 AR Level: 4.0

Spenelli, J. _. // Fourth grade rat // s. New York: Scholastic. Realistic Fiction Suds, a fourth-grader now, finds himself in a dilemma when he must choose between living up to the school's nickname for fourth graders, rats, or stay true to his more innocent, loving self. This book follows Suds on his journey to becoming a "man," and ultimately he realizes that who he is- well, is who he really wants to be.

This book is written in kid-language and is funny! Kids would directly relate with the school humor, the loving teachers, the stress of what designs are on your lunchbox and what you are eating for lunch. But more seriously, they can also identify with the struggle of finding who you are really are inside when everyone around you is pulling you in different directions. This book would be great to read with kids to discuss characterization and to study how Suds changed during the course of the book. It would also be a great book to read if there is a bullying problem in your class, or to be proactive and discuss bullying before it ever becomes a problem. A very good book that will be very versatile. <span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"> **Interest: 3-5** <span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"> **AR Level: 4.0**


 * White, E.B. (1945). //Stuart Little.// New York: Scholastic. **
 * <span style="color: #053df5; font-family: 'Marker Felt'; font-size: 16px; font-weight: normal; line-height: 19px;"> Realistic Fiction **
 * <span style="color: #000000; font-family: 'Marker Felt'; font-size: 16px; font-weight: normal; line-height: 19px;"> A small mouse, Stuart Little, lives with the Little family in New York City. He gets along fine with the family until one day his beloved bird-friend Margalo disappears and Stuart sets off away from home to find her. It is on his journey to find his friend that he discovers the world and decides he may not go back home. **


 * <span style="color: #000000; font-family: 'Marker Felt'; font-size: 16px; font-weight: normal; line-height: 19px;"> This book was pleasant and enjoyable. The reading level was slightly high for elementary school and the language would be a bit difficult for younger students to comprehend. I would use parts of this book to discuss perspective as well as to discuss laws. In the part where Stuart serves as a substitute teacher, he decides they must come up with new rules and laws. Students, I'm sure, would find this part hilarious and easily connect with it. Overall, a good book. **
 * <span style="color: #000000; font-family: 'Marker Felt'; font-size: 13px; font-weight: normal; line-height: 19px;"> Interest: 3-5 **
 * <span style="color: #000000; font-family: 'Marker Felt'; font-size: 13px; font-weight: normal; line-height: 19px;"> AR Level: 2.6 **


 * Graphic Novels: **

Holm, J.L, & M. (2005) //Babymouse: Queen of the world//. New York: RandomHouse. Babymouse is a typical pre-teen girl, besides the fact that she happens to be a mouse. In this enjoyable graphic novel, Babymouse wants desperately to be invited to the popular Felicia Furrpaws' big sleepover party- so desperately that she gives Felicia the book report she wrote and blows off her best friend, Wilson. In the end she realizes that she is not like Felicia and the popular girls at all and her life is pretty great just the way it is- she is already queen of her own world.

This book was very enjoyable! I was surprised at the vocabulary used in the book. Because it is a graphic novel, I guess I was expecting it to be baby-ish. But, I was surprised! I thoroughly enjoyed it! This book would be great to use to get girls interested in graphic novels, especially because the only colors used are black, white, and pink! This book would be great to use as an example of an inspiration book for students to generate their own graphic novels. Interest Level: 3-5 AR Level: 2.2

Graphic Novel (Realistic Fiction) Greg Heffley, an average middle school student, documents his year through diary entires in a journal his mother forced him to buy. Through his writings and creative drawings, Greg handles what his year throws at him with a realism seen only in a personal diary.
 * Kinney, J. (2007). //Diary of a wimpy kid: A novel in cartoons//. New York: Amulet Books. **

This book is great for kids. It touches on all the problems a middle school kid deals with- friendships, punks, nerds, school work, etc. The pictures are very entertaining and add a lot of interest to this book. Kids can relate directly to the situations discussed. This book opens the door to discussing voice in writing and how this book is different from a more "traditional" novel.

When introducing this book to students, I would want them to make connections with the main characters of the book, Greg and Rowley. How are the characters similar to you and what situations do they deal with that you have also experienced? This book presents a variety of sterotypical "school" scenarios in which kids can relate easily. Interest: 3-8 AR Level: 5.2

Pilkey, D. (2000). //Captain underpants and the perilous plot of professor poopypants//. New York: Scholastic. George and Harold are at it again in this fourth adventure of Captain Underpants. When they discover that their principal turns into the infamous Captain Underpants at the snap of fingers, they use his powers to take down an evil science professor who tries to take over the world with his inventions. In this hilarious book, Captain Underpants defeats Professor Poopypants while enticing many laughs along the way.

This book was actually very enjoyable and funny! With its spoofs on school, teachers, and critical adults, the book makes you laugh out loud and almost wish you were a kid again. Although I would not use this book instructionally, I would recommend this book to students. Its comics would amuse them and they would just love the character's names. For a graphic novel, I was surprised at how enjoyable this book was. Interest Level: 3-5 AR Level: 4.7

Fantasy:

Brown, J. (1964). //Flat Stanley//. New York: Scholastic. Stanley awakes on night and finds himself flattened to 1/2 inch thick after a large bulletin board falls on top of him. In this hilarious book, readers follow Stanley on his adventures as a flat person. He is able to do many things while flat, including fly like a kite and help catch museum thieves! A great short read!

Kids would absolutely love this book! Being flat offers up a world of possibilities, almost rivaling invisibility. Their imaginations can soar once they begin reading this book. I could use this book to inspire writing and I believe students would love to write their own adventures for flat Stanley or for themselves, imaging they were also flat. I can't wait to read the other books in this series!! Interest: 3-5 AR Level: 4.0

Osborne, M.P. (2006). //Magic tree house: Blizzard of the blue moon//. New York: Scholastic. Fantasy In this magical story, Jack and Annie are transported back to 1938 New York (during the Great Depression) in search of a unicorn they must set free. There is a problem: New York is in the middle of a blinding snowstorm that is worsening fast. With help from Merlin and two young magicians, the two defeat a pair of evil teenagers who are also after the unicorn and free the unicorn and bring back the shining sun to New York.

This book was very good! I was apprehensive about reading it, but the writing is much more stylish that I imagined. Mary Pope Osborne does a wonderful job of incorporating historical places, times, and events into the book so kids subtly learn things without realizing it. She even includes a glossary in the back of the book that further explains those terms! A mix of magic and history, these Magic Tree House books are pleasing to children but can serve as great discussion-starters for the events and people mentioned in them. This would be a cute book to read when studying the Great Depression. It is also a good book to have available in the classroom library. I'm not sure I would use it to teach any certain skill, but I will for sure recommend it to my students! Interest: 3-5 AR Level: 3.9

Scieszka, J. (1991). // The time warp trio: Knights of the kitchen table. // New York: The Trumpet Club. <span style="color: #000000; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;">** Fantasy/Science Fiction ** <span style="color: #000000; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;">** Three boys, Joe, Fred, and Sam, discover themselves sent back in time- to the middle ages to be exact- after Joe opened a mysterious gift from his magician uncle. The boys find themselves aiding King Arthur himself in a battle against a giant and a dragon. The boys realize that their wishes just might come true after all, and yes, you must be careful what you wish for. **

<span style="color: #000000; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;">** I have to admit that I was apprehensive to read this book, but because it is a series chosen frequently by my students, I decided to give it a shot. I was pleasantly surprised at what I found. Although very short and not at all wordy, the book does present interesting historical topics to children in an entertaining and direct way. The authors do not divulge too much information about the events the boys in the story are visiting, in this case King Arthur and the knights of the Round Table, which entices students to learn more about the topic. In order to truly understand the story, students need knowledge of this story in history. **

<span style="color: #000000; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;">** When presenting this book to students, it can be used in a variety of ways. Most simply, the boys make a wish and it is granted- with serious consequences. You can leave out the story of King Arthur and put the focus on the actual time-travel. Is this actually possible? What do you think the boys learned from their experience? Do you think they will try to travel somewhere again? Why or why not? What time periods would be the best to travel to? Such questions inspire critical thinking and allow students to be creative. **

<span style="color: #000000; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;">** You can also focus on the actual story of King Arthur and the knights of the Round Table. You can find other books that also present information about them and compare the two. Discussions can be had on the accuracy of the story and the commonalities and differences this book shares with others. ** <span style="color: #000000; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;">** Interest:3-5 ** <span style="color: #000000; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;">** AR Level: 3.8 **

<span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif;"> Stine, R.L. (1994). Goosebumps: // Deep trouble. // New York: Scholastic. <span style="color: #053df5; font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> Science Fiction/Fantasy <span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> Billy and Sheena are lucky to spend their summers with their uncle, Dr. Deep. Dr. Deep is a marine biologist and has been offered one million dollars to find a mermaid many fisherman swear they have seen in the waters of the Caribbean. Dr. Deep is faced with a hard decision after Billy unexpectedly finds the mermaid after she saved his life from a shark. Does he keep the mermaid and sell it to the zoo or set her free? When the mermaid is stolen from their boat, Dr. Deep makes his decision- the tells the zoo people mermaids do not exist.

<span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> This book is a great one to talk about moral obligations. A mermaid, in this book, was a human life and was suffering after she was taken from the water. Billy knew all long that it was wrong to take her to the zoo- she did not belong there. However, it would pose interesting questions to students to analyze this situation and explain their reasons why the mermaid should be saved or not. The writing was surprisingly stylish and the book was very fast-paced. Enjoyable and one I would easily recommend to my students! <span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif;"> Interest: 3-5 <span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif;"> AR Level: 3.5

<span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif;"> Wright, B.R. (1994). // The ghost comes calling //. New York: Scholastic. <span style="color: #053df5; font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> Science Fiction <span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> Chad's father has bought a new lake cabin and is very excited about it. Chad is not so sure- especially when he finds out the cabin is haunted. After nights of terrifying encounters with the ghost, Chad comes up with a plan to set the ghost free and his own mind at ease.

<span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> This is a classic spooky story but with a happy ending. I don't see much value in this book for instructional purposes, but I would recommend it to students who enjoy getting a thrill. The writing is a tad bland, but an easy read for 3-5th grade students. <span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> Interest: 4.3 <span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> AR Level: 3-5

<span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif;"> Dollhouse Murders <span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif;"> When Amy's Aunt Claire comes in town to sell her grandparents old house, Amy discovers the truth about her grandparents death in the most astonishing of ways. A dollhouse in the attic complete with tiny replicas of her grandparents comes to life and reveals the happenings of the fateful night of the grandparent's death.

<span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif;"> This book is a great book to use when discussing how to create suspense and fear in writing. I would love to use pieces of this book, especially when Amy is climbing the dark attic stairs in the middle of a terrible thunderstorm to show students how author's create suspense. Students would love to then try it on their own! This book is also a great chiller for students who love to read stories that get your heart racing. <span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif;">Interest: 3-5 <span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif;">AR: 4.2

Wright, B.R. (1991). //A ghost in the house//. New York: Scholastic. When her great aunt moves into the old family house, Sarah and her great aunt become haunted by an mean-spirited poltrogaist who wishes them both dead. In this heart-pounding thriller, a young girl and an old woman face the ghost together and ultimately drive him away after the ghost's daughter orders him away.

This book was truly terrifying for me! If I had students who enjoyed being scared and reading about ghostly experiences, I would suggest this book to them. It would be great for discussing the possibilities of such things happening as well as what they would do if they were faced with a situation like this. I do not like to be scared, so reading this book was truly scary for me. I don't see myself using it in the classroom for much- other than just as a recommendation. Interest level: 3-5 AR Level: 4.4

Informational Books/Biography

Bunting, E. (1994) Smoky night. Orlando, FL: Harcourt Brace & Company. In this truly unique picture book, Bunting tells the story of family who are victims during the Los Angeles riots. The illustrations, a mixture of collage and paintings bring a realism to the story that adds a deeper layer of emotion for the reader. The family narrowly escapes a fire in their building and through the terror of the night, they are brought closer to their community.

I think this book is a great one to read to children of all ages- including high school students. Students may know little about the Los Angeles riots and this book provides a rare glimpse into the harsh reality of the events. This is a great book to read when discussing history and how and why riots happen. This book could provide the basis for great discussions. Interest Level: K-6 AR Level: 2.4

DePaola, T. (1999). // 26 fairmont avenue. // New York: Scholastic. Autobiography In this simple story, Tomie DePaola recalls the events of the years 1938 and 1939. Told from his childhood perspective, DePaola explains the Hurricane of 1938 and the building of his family's first home.

This book was an enjoyable read. I would think children would like this book because it is told from a child's perspective and is written the way that children think. The simple black and white pictures help children visualize life in the '30s. A great tool to use to explain to students that biographies can be memories from a certain period in a person's life- not always about their entire life. interest: 3-6 AR Level: NA A Newberry Honor Book

Mystery: Adler, D.A. (2001). //Cam Jamsen and the school play mystery//. New York: Scholastic. When the school is putting on a play about Abe Lincoln, they discover that the ticket money has gone missing. Using clues from her picture-taking memory, Cam and her friends solve the case and teach a little boy a lesson using "Honest Abe's" life.

<span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif;">This is a cute story for young students to read. They would enjoy the parallels to putting on a school play and using clues to catch a thief. I'm not sure I would use this book instructionally in any way, but I would recommend it to students who like to read mystery stories. It even includes a memory game the readers can play at the end of the book. Students can also get involved with this series and read several books with the same characters. <span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif;">Interest level: 3-5 <span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif;">AR Level: 5.1

Upper Middle/High School Level Chapter Books:

Realistic Fiction:

Anderson, L.A. (1999). //Speak//. New York: Penguin Group. Realistic Fiction Melinda Sordino, a girl with a secret, battles the internal battle between telling the truth and keeping it buried inside. An outcast, Melinda lost her friends after the fatal night that changed her life forever. She chooses, in the end, to speak about the night and in doing so wins back the part of herself she had once lost.This is a powerful book to share with kids (upper middle-high school).

It is a grim reality that abusive sexual situations take place in high schools, and kids need to be made aware of the fact that it is not only ok, but so important, that they speak up for themselves and stand up against wrongdoing. This book will fuel important discussions about friendship, morals, and standing up for yourself. It will also raise awareness that these types of tough situations do exist. interest: 9-12 AR Level: 4.5

Fine, A. (1992). //Flour babies//. New York: Dell Publishi ng Realistic Fiction Simon Martin, a misfit in school whose father left him when was just six weeks old, finds out what it is like to be a parent when his class takes on caring for flour babies as their science fair project. In this amusing story, Simon becomes attached to his flower baby and sorts through the emotions he has towards his father with it by his side.

<span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;">In the classroom, this book can be used to start discussions on responsibility and if the teacher would want to take it to a discussion of parenthood, it could go there as well. I would not use this book for any reason for third graders! I think upper high school students would find it hilarious that boys have to care for flour babies and enjoy the book very much. <span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;"> Interest:6-12 <span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;"> AR Level: NA

<span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: #0000ff; font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Finn, A. (2001). <span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif;">// Breathing underwater // <span style="color: #0000ff; font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">. New York: HarperCollins Publishers. <span style="color: #0000ff; font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> Realistic Fiction <span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> Nick Andreas is a teen, who from the outside-looking-in, lives a priviledged life. But inside, he struggles with major problems. His mom left when he was five, leaving him alone with his father's abusive tendencies. Battered and bruised, he begins to mirror his father's actions with his girlfriend, Caitlin. It takes him going way too far before he is forced to seek help. It is in his therapy sessions that Nick realizes the monster he is inside and fights to win back normalcy and a peaceful relationship with his father.

<span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> This book was absolutely engrossing. The emotions the reader feels toward Nick bounce back and forth between hatred and empathy. Although sometimes hard to read, this book would be a good one to read with upper high school students. It is important that they realize people like Nick are in the world, and sometimes it may be the person you least expect. This is a great book to raise awareness about child abuse and how to properly address those situations, anger and how to manage yourself when you get upset, and most importantly, learning that even if you make mistakes, there is always hope. <span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> Interest: 9-12 <span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> AR Level: 3.9

<span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"> <span style="color: #0000ff; font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Marsden, J. (1987). <span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif;">// So much to tell you // <span style="color: #0000ff; font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">. New York: Fawcett Juniper <span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">. <span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> Realistic Fiction <span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> Marina, a fourteen-year-old girl, is subjected to a massive amount of tragedy. Her father, thinking she was her mother, damages her face with acid after the found out his wife had an affair and he lost all of his money. Marina goes mute, speaking to no one and as a result is sent to boarding school. Slowly, she faces her fears and starts on her journey to healing by admitting she is ready to forgive her father.

<span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> In the classroom I would use this book to teach empathy. You can examine the book through many questions. Students can try to put themselves in Marina's shoes and imagine how they would feel if they were in her situation. Also, how is the father feeling? Should he be forgiven? I would be very interested to see how students respond to this book and hear their arguments for the characters. A thought-provoking book. <span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> Interest: 6-8 <span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> AR Level: 5.4

<span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"> ** Pascal, F. (1992). S // weet valley twins and friends: Jessica the nerd //. New York, NY: Bantam Skylark. ** <span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">** Realistic Fiction ** When she scores well on a science test and qualifies for a special science program, Jessica is forced to re-examine her identity. Is she really the popular girl she has been for years, or is she truly a nerd, destined to spend hours in the library reading science books? Jessica finds ways to infuse both personalities into her identity and proves that a girl can be both pretty and smart. This book would be great to discuss those all too common girl problems in an upper elementary/middle school classroom. This book proves that you can be well rounded and it is actually very good to be well rounded- a message girls need to hear at a very young age. This book can also be used to discuss how we treat others and can be a great way for students to analyze their relationships with their friends. Interest: 7-12 AR Level: 3.8

Historical Fiction:

Collier, C. & J.L. (1994). // With every drop of blood //. New York: Delacorte Publishing Group. Historical Fiction In the time of the Civil War, Johnny's father's life was taken. On his deathbed, Johnny's father made Johnny promise that he would never go to war, that his duty for the family was enough. But young and full of rage toward the Yankees, Johnny jumps at the first chance to join a mission to steal Yankee supplies. En route, he is taken prisoner by a black Yankee soldier. The two young boys, against their wills, become friends and take turns saving each other from the perils of war and discover their own sense of truth and rightness.

This book is a great depiction of the Civil War from a young boy's perspective. Because the reason for the war varies between families, states, and regions, these boys are only fighting for what their parents believed. During their journey, however, they start to question their own beliefs and develop their own sense about right and wrong and how human beings are treated. Not only is this book a great one to study how the war was fought but also to study the personal relationships between whites and blacks. Students can easily identify with one of the two boys and struggle with the same emotions the boys do throughout their journey. A wonderful book to use when studying the Civil War. Also, the historical events mentioned in the book are accurate. Interest: 6-8 AR Level: 4.9

Paterson, K. (1980). // Jacob have I loved //. New York: Thomas Y. Crowell Junior Books Historical Fiction Louise, a young teenage girl in 1941, grew up on the isolated Rass Island full of hatred and jealousy toward her twin sister, Caroline who seems to take everything and everyone she wanted. Struggling to find her own identity, Louise learns that sometimes she must create her own opportunities and her own dreams. She eventually finds herself in the most unexpected of places.

I do not really see any valuable use of this book for whole-group classroom discussion. It seems like mostly girls would be interested in this book due to the complex emotions and situations Louise finds herself in. I would recommend this book to older high school girls who are having issues with self-identity. Interest: 6-8 AR Level: 5.7

Peck, R. (2001). // Fair weather //. New York: Dial Books. Historical Fiction Country folk Rosie, Lottie, and Buster experience a change in their world view after receiving an invitation from their wealthy aunt to visit the Columbian Exposition at Chicago in 1893. Their lives are forever changed when they realize that Grandpa is an old friend of Buffalo Bill, and Lottie marries the son of a wealthy Dean. Their wealthy aunt regains status in society after the passing of her elderly husband and Rosie stays to attend high school in the city. All of them experience the differences city-life and technology offers after learning a great deal at the Exposition.

This book is a great book for high-school students to read and study about life and society in the 17th century. Students can hold discussions about the differences in the way of life of "country folk" and city dwellers and how the technology was introduced and used to change the way we live. Interest: 6-8 AR Level: 4.7

<span style="color: #0000ff; font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Thor, A. (2009). <span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif;">// A faraway island // <span style="color: #0000ff; font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">. New York: Randomhouse <span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">. <span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> Historical Fiction <span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> Stephie and Nellie, Jewish sisters from Austria, are relocated to an island in Sweden after the Nazi invasion. Lonely and afraid, Stephie is separated from her sister and forced to live with a woman she barely gets along with. This book follows Stephie's journey of learning to live in a new world when every force is acting against her. A very touching and emotional tale of her journey as a refugee. The book is set in the years of 1939 and 1940.

<span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> This book would be great to use with students who are studying WWII. It is rare to find a fictional book based on a refugee child from that time period. The main character is 12, a perfectly relatable age for many students. Students can learn empathy through reading this story, and also to appreciate what they have. A very good book to explore the many perspectives of the impact of WWII. A great book! <span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> Interest: 3-7 <span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> AR Level: 4.4

<span style="color: #053df5; font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Yolen, J. (1988). //The devil's arithmetic.// New York: Penguin Group. <span style="color: #053df5; font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> Historical Fiction <span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> Hannah, a twelve-year-old Jewish girl living in New York in the 80's, suddenly finds herself transported to 1942 Poland and is taken away to a concentration camp. Hannah, known as Chaya in the past, discovers the true horrors her own family suffered through and connects with her aunt after realizing the encounter she was witnessing was hers.

<span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> Although a work of fiction, this book captures the harsh realities suffered by Jewish peoples during WWII. Students can have a unique experience with this book because like the main character, Hannah, the children have not actually lived through WWII. They can imagine what they would do if they were in Hannah's position. Like Hannah, they can try to use their knowledge of the Holocaust to help those they encounter. This is a great book to read while studying the war and to help students realize the pain and suffering the prisoners were put through. <span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> Interest: 6-8 <span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> AR Level: 4.6

Informational Books:

Fleming, C. (2009). //The great and only Barnum: The tremendous, stupendous life of showman P.T. Barnum//. New York: Shwartz & Wade Books. Biography Come one, come all, and read about the fascinating life of P.T. Barnum! This incredible book takes you through the journey of Barnum's life- from humble beginnings to extravagant periods, to the humble ending. Readers learn details about his personal life, his family, and his business ordeals that lead up to what he is known and most famous for: the three ring circus. This book is jam-packed with photos and sidebars chock full of information!

Students studying biographies, I believe, would greatly enjoy this book! With its story-like writing and photos galore, students will stay intrigued from beginning to end. Barnum lead a fascinating life and students would find his journey interesting and far from boring. A wonderful book to have available to students in the classroom! Interest: 6-12 AR Level: 7.0

Hampton, W. (2009). //Up close: Babe Ruth: M.V.P//. New York: Penguin Group Biography Babe Ruth is a name that will forever be known in the sports realm. However, most people only know of his tremendous baseball career and not much about his personal life. In this book, Hampton does a wonderful job of blending baseball facts and statistics with the intimate details of Babe's life- the negative and the positive. Readers learn about the Babe from his poor beginnings to his famous end.

Boys and girls who love sports will love this book. Hampton includes enough baseball jargon and statistics to satisfy any sports buff as well as the intimate details and side stories for those not-so-keen sports fans who are interested in learning more about him. Students can learn from the Babe's attitude and misgivings as they learn about the mistakes he made over the course of his life. This is a great biography to offer to students to give them the opportunity to learn about the true man that was Babe Ruth. Interest: 6-8 AR Level: NA

Hoose, P. (2009). //Claudette Colvin: Twice toward justice.// New York: Melanie Kroupa Books. Biography/Nonfiction Claudette Colvin, a name not usually mentioned when discussion about the bus boycotts is the segregated south, is revived in this informational book. Readers hear the voices of both the author and Claudette herself as her story is brought to life and the recognition she deserved many years ago is now given to her.

Hoose brilliantly blends his own narrative with Claudette's words to form an easy-to-read and captivating account of Claudette's story and the story of the bus boycotts. He also incorporates pictures and important newspaper clippings to the text which increases the readers emotional reaction to the story as well as provides glimpses as to how the stories were actually depicted at the time. Students studying civil rights must read this book and learn about Colvin. Before Rosa Parks, her story is the true spark that lit the fire of the civil rights movement in Alabama. Interest: 5-8 AR Level: 6.8

<span style="color: #053df5; font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;">Stone, T.L. (2009). //Almost astronauts: 13 women who dared to dream//. Somerville, MA: Candlewick Press. <span style="color: #053df5; font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;"> Nonfiction <span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;"> Many of us know the story of Rosa Parks and her battle with civil rights for African Americans. However, I think it is safe to say that not many know of the story of Jerri Cobb and her battle for civil rights for women. In this book, the author tells Cobbs story of how she dared to try for a dream- a dream that would not come true- for her. Jerri Cobb, along with the twelve other women who underwent initial training to become astronauts, paved the way for women to have their place in space.

<span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;"> This book is a wonderful one to have in the classroom during the study of space exploration, the '60s, or civil rights. Many students do not realize that it was not until the 1970s that women were given rights to simple things we take for granted- like owning property. This book does an excellent job of capturing the emotion of the women and telling their story in an engaging way. I didn't want to put the book down! A great book for starting discussions on civil and women's rights. <span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;"> Interest: 6-8 <span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;"> AR Level: 7.1

Poetry:

<span style="color: #053df5; font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif;">Creech, S. (2001). Love that dog. New York: HarperTrophy. <span style="color: #053df5; font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden;"> In this sweet poetry book, Creech writes from the perspective of a young boy who is experiencing the writing of poetry for the first time. Like most students, this young boy is surprised that he can be a poet as well, especially when he is inspired by poets and their poems. He is also thrilled when Walter Dean Myers himself comes to his school to visit after receiving an invitation from him. The book is full of diary entires from the boy written in response to his teacher, who encourages him to write.

This book was great! The subtle beauty of Creech's own poems is exciting and the mention of all the classic poems is great to inspire students to want to read the poems alluded to. To top it off, the poems mentioned are included in the back of the book! I think this is a must-have for any teacher teaching poetry- either writing or reading and analyzing. I think every student will be motivated to read and write poetry after reading this book. Interest Level: 6-8 AR Level: 4.5

Woodson, J. (2003). //Locomotion//. New York: Scholastic. When Lonnie's parents die in a tragic fire and he is separated from his sister sent to live with in several foster homes, he feels like his life is hopeless. However, four years later his fifth-grade teacher introduces him to a world of poetry and how to express his feelings on paper. Through this new form, Lonnie finally addresses the fears in his heart and the emotions he experiences. This is a truly touching tale of how a young African-American boy uses poetry to find the hope to move on.

I would use this book in an upper elementary, middle school or high school classroom. This book is very versatile. Because the main character is dealing with such a tragedy, kids of all ages can relate to it. Also, poetry is studied in many grades and students even in high school can find inspiration from his poems. This book is truly unique and one I would recommend to any student who is studying poetry or who just enjoys reading or writing it. The book is an emotional roller coaster that can give anyone strength and courage to go on living in such an unpredictable world. Interest Level: 5-12th AR Level: 4.7

Fantasy/Science Fiction:

Anderson, M.T. (2002) //Feed//. Cambridge, MA: Candlewick Press. <span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Far in the future, America has annexed the moon as the fifty-first state, built suburbs that float in the air, accessible with upcars that fly. Most everyone had feeds- feeds that constantly supply you with information- clothes, shows, anything and everything you could possibly think of or want. The problem: the feeds are installed directly into the brain. People begin to get lesions and their skin is falling off. In this striking story, one boy and one girl fight to resist the feed and the world that is falling apart around them.

<span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">This book was simply amazing. When I first started it, I was a little annoyed with the realistic teenager talk, but as I got further into the book, I realized that that was a major factor in its beauty. Anderson has captured teenage life to a T. Although the language in the book was shocking, this book is a fabulous one for students to read. I'm sure parents would have to be notified and permission would have to be received, but students would be able to relate to the characters and hopefully have some amazing discussions about the future of our country and of our minds. A future described in the book may be closer than we think. I wish someone else had read this book so we could discuss it! Simply amazing! <span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Interest level: 9-12 <span style="font-family: 'Marker Felt',helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">AR Level: 4.4

Farmer, N. (2002). //The house of the scorpion//. New York: Anthem Books Matt, a sheltered teenager living in a country called Opium, discovers that he is a clone- or an eejit as the locals say. Although most clones brains are destroyed at birth, Matt's was saved for a purpose- to serve as a source of replacement body parts for the man who created him. Matt's fate seems inescapable- but, in a battle of wits and morals, Matt fights his way out of his cruel form of enslavement and into a position of power even he never expected.

This book was awesome! The subject of cloning people is sure to bring up fiery disputes in the classroom and is a book that, I believe, should be read by all high school students at one point or another. This book touches on so many themes, evilness, power, authority, human rights, ethical issues... the list goes on. Not only does it serve as a great source of discussion for deep topics, Farmers writing is beautiful and almost poetic. Great book!!! Interest: 4-8 AR Level: 5.1 National Book Award Winner Newberry Honor Book Printz Award