Speak

Bibliographic Data: 

 

Anderson, Laurie Halse. 1999. Speak. New York: Farrar Straus Giroux.

ISBN 0374371520

Plot Summary:

The narrator, Melinda Sordino, begins her freshman year of high school as an outcast. As the novel opens, the reader is faced with a complex character that is relatable in many ways, but mysterious in others. We do not initially see why Melinda is so misunderstood and this fact is gradually introduced as the novel progresses. Author Laurie Halse Anderson gives Melinda a voice through a diary-like narrative, comprised of incomplete thoughts and honest, raw emotions. Melinda begins a downward spiral pulling away from her parents and allowing her grades to slip. Eventually Melinda realizes her problems will not go away and her depression will only grow deeper the more she suppresses her emotions. She decides to confront her issues and speak up in order for the truth to be revealed.

Critical Analysis:

Melinda’s internal struggles are front and center throughout the whole novel and make for an authentic glimpse into the mind of an adolescent. Most readers can definitely relate to the awkward feelings she describes. Anderson writes an accurate representation of high school life from the cliques to what is served in the cafeteria: “…turkey with reconstituted dried mashed potatoes and gravy, a damp green vegetable, and a cookie.” The reader sees Melinda grow strong and find her identity leaving young adults with a sense of empowerment and inspiration.

While the plot deals with the harsh element of rape, it does open the door to conversation.  It allows the reader to think and be aware of issues that, until recently, were not discussed openly. In the end, Melinda finding her voice is crucial and can encourage young readers to do the same when it comes to difficult situations they might be facing. There is no doubt that Speak has the ability to reveal the inner working of the teenage mind, as well as encourage conversation concerning the more difficult topics surrounding adolescent life.

Awards:

Michael L. Printz Award, Honor Book, 2000

 

Review Excerpt(s):

Booklist, September 1999:

“In her YA fiction debut, Anderson perfectly captures the harsh conformity of high-school cliques and one teen's struggle to find acceptance from her peers. Melinda's sarcastic wit, honesty, and courage make her a memorable character whose ultimate triumph will inspire and empower readers.”

 

Kirkus, 1999:

“A frightening and sobering look at the cruelty and viciousness that pervade much of contemporary high school life, as real as today's headlines.”

 

Publisher’s Weekly, 1999:

“Though the symbolism is sometimes heavy-handed, it is effective…the book's overall gritty realism and Melinda's hard-won metamorphosis will leave readers touched and inspired.”

 

Connections:

*The special release Platinum Edition of Speak was released in 2006 with an interview with Laurie Halse Anderson and an additional “Comment about Censorship”. Explore these extras and use as discussion topics.

*Watch the movie Speak (2005) starring Kristen Stewart. The movie follows the story very closely and stays relatively true to the plot with minor tweaks. The Platinum Edition gives examples of fun activities you can do during Speak “movie parties”.  For example:

- Watch for lines that come from the book.

-Count how many times Melinda speaks.

-Figure out what scenes were not in the book.

-Look for Laurie Halse Anderson’s cameo during a cafeteria scene.

*Encourage small group discussions:

-What are some of the signs of Melinda’s depression? What symptoms would concern you if you were a friend? What would you do to help?

-In what ways is Merryweather High School similar to your school? What is different about your school?

Other young adult novels by Laurie Halse Anderson:

Anderson, Laurie Halse. Catalyst. ISBN 9780142400012

Anderson, Laurie Halse. Twisted. ISBN 9780142411841

Anderson, Laurie Halse. Wintergirls. ISBN 9780142415573

Rapunzel's Revenge

 

 

 

 

Bibliographic Data: 

 

Hale, Dean; Hale, Shannon. 2008. Rapunzel’s Revenge. Ill. Hale, Nathan. New York: Bloomsbury.

ISBN 9781599902883

Plot Summary:

Rapunzel lives a sheltered life in a lavish villa behind massive walls she has never left. Rapunzel dares to venture outside the walls on her twelve birthday and discovers the horrible working conditions those outside must endure. She also discovers her real mother is a slave on the outside and her supposed mother, Gothel, is a ruthless leader who kidnapped her as a child. Rapunzel becomes defiant and Gothel sends her to a magic tree tower where Rapunzel remains for four years, alone with her hair growing abnormally long. She is able to escape the tower swinging herself to the ground using her hair. Rapunzel sets out on a quest to free her mother and put a stop to Gothel’s magic and rule over the kingdom. Rapunzel meets a young thief named Jack, and the two continue together using Rapunzel’s lethal braids as their only self-defense against various outlaws and Gothel’s magic.

Critical Analysis:

With a strong, determined female protagonist, Rapunzel’s Revenge presents young female readers with a likeable and relatable character. We see Rapunzel as human; oppressed and powerless in the beginning and becoming independent as the novel progresses. Young girls can relate to Rapunzel’s rebellion and desire for liberation, not only for herself, but for those she cares for. The plot moves along logically using graphics and word bubbles making the story visually appealing, as well as simple to follow. Seeing everything from Rapunzel’s view point makes for an intimate glimpse into the obstacles and tasks she encounters along her quest. The illustrations are detailed and vivid and there are numerous segments that tell the story through action boxes without the need for any text.

While the setting is definitely a fantastical one, the basic concept the author’s and illustrator create is a rough, unruly world full of magic used for greed rather than the greater good. The theme of good versus evil is a common one among graphic novels, though it is no less evident in Rapunzel’s Revenge. Rapunzel continues to fight against the evil of Gothel and must save not only her mother, but everyone enslaved by Gothel’s magic. In the end she prevails and good triumphs over evil.

Awards:

Cybil Award, graphic novel winner, 2008

 

Review Excerpt(s):

Kirkus, August 2008:

“Nathan Hale's art, stylistically reminiscent of a picture book, provides a snazzy counterpoint to the folksy text. A dash of typical fairy-tale romance, a strong sense of social justice and a spunky heroine make this a standout choice for younger teens.”

 

Booklist, September 2008:

“Hale’s art matches the story well, yielding expressive characters and lending a wonderful sense of place to the fantasy landscape. Rich with humor and excitement, this is an alternate version of a classic that will become a fast favorite of young readers.”

 

Connections:

*Read Paul O. Zelinsky’s picture book Rapunzel. Compare and contrast the major components from each book. How is the real Rapunzel different from “Punzie”?

A follow-up graphic novel to Rapunzel’s Revenge:

*Hale, Dean; Hale, Shannon. Calamity Jack. Ill. Hale, Nathan. ISBN 9781599903736

When You Reach Me

 

 

 

 

Bibliographic Data: 

 

Stead, Rebecca. 2009. When You Reach Me. New York: Wendy Lamb Books.

ISBN 9780375850868

Plot Summary:

The book begins in New York City in 1979 with Miranda Sinclair’s mother being accepted as a contestant on The $20,000 Pyramid game show. We see Miranda flashback to earlier in the previous year to an event that changed the course of her life in many ways. Her best friend Sal is punched randomly by a boy that neither Miranda nor Sal know. After this, Sal becomes distant and Miranda doesn’t understand why. She begins to receive a series of letters with dates and clues that must be followed closely in order for Sal’s life to be saved. Miranda begins to notice strange coincidences between the clues in the letters and what is happening in her own life. It begins to feel as if someone knows her future as each event mentioned within the letters begins to actually happen. Miranda questions the possibility of time travel and discovers the theory just might be true.

Critical Analysis:

Author Rebecca Stead presents very real characters and a very real setting that make the novel When You Reach Me seem more realistic fiction than science fiction, at times. The protagonist, 12 year old Miranda, is relatable and believable. The story is one that seems very real in the beginning with a seemingly normal flashback by Miranda setting the tone. Quickly, the story begins to take on the element of fantasy after the theory of time travel is discussed. Stead’s organization of the past, present and future comes together beautifully in the end and makes for an engaging climax. The first person account given by Miranda allows the reader to experience the unexpected in the same methodical, climactic approach as the main character.

When You Reach Me includes notable examples of friendship which is a reoccurring theme throughout. Miranda not only creates new friendships, but rekindles old ones and creates bonds she never imagined were possible. For example, the person Miranda thought she could never be friends with, Julia, eventually becomes close after Miranda begins to see what they have in common rather than what makes them different.

Awards:

John Newbery Medal Book, 2010

Andre Norton Award Finalist, 2009

 

Review Excerpt(s):

Kirkus, Starred Review, June 2009:

“…when all the sidewalk characters from Miranda's Manhattan world converge amid mind-blowing revelations and cunning details, teen readers will circle back to the beginning and say, "Wow...cool."

 

Booklist, Starred Review, June 2009:

“The ’70s New York setting is an honest reverberation of the era; the mental gymnastics required of readers are invigorating; and the characters, children and adults, are honest bits of humanity no matter in what place or time their souls rest.”

 

School Library Journal, Starred Review, 2009:

“This unusual, thought-provoking mystery will appeal to several types of readers.”

 

Connections:

*Make predictions concerning who the letter writer might be. After the first letter is mentioned in the book, have students write a journal entry making a prediction who the person might be and where they come from. Compare answers after students finish the book.

*Discuss the friendships in the novel. Are they realistic? Which ones seem more real?

*Other young adult novels with time travel:

L’Engle, Madeleine. Wrinkle in Time. ISBN 9780374386160

Cross, Julie. Tempest: A Novel. ISBN 0312568894

 

Turtle in Paradise

Bibliographic Data: 

 

Holm, Jennifer L. 2010. Turtle in Paradise. New York: Random House.

ISBN 9780375836909

Plot Summary:

During the great depression, jobs are hard to come by. Eleven year old Turtle is sent to Key West, Florida by her mother who has recently taken a housekeeping position where children are not welcome. Turtle’s aunt and young cousins reluctantly take Turtle in and she quickly learns that life in Key West during the Great Depression is even tougher than back home in New Jersey. No one seems to be fond of shoes, young boys take care of babies in exchange for candy, and comic strips and radio shows are a welcome escape from reality. Turtle and her younger cousins end up stranded in a hurricane after a successful search for buried treasure. Turtle is found and reunited with her mother and they both decide to stay in Key West with the rest of the family.

Critical Analysis:

Turtle in Paradise presents a unique setting for life during the great depression. Key West was indeed a place of economic chaos during the Great Depression and the novel includes numerous examples of the hardships that Americans faced during the 1930’s. The historical facts along with humorous and witty dialogue are all woven effectively into the story providing the reader with a lively plot that is easy to follow, as opposed to being weighed down by historical trivia. Including popular figures of the time like Shirley Temple and Key West’s own Ernest Hemingway, author Jennifer L. Holm not only offers the reader subtle factual authenticity, but also a more diverse cast of characters. Holm also creates a genuine heroine through Turtle. Turtle’s personality can be easily identified with and her dedication to her family is refreshing. The importance of family is emphasized and is an evident theme throughout the novel.  

Awards:

John Newbery Medal Honor Book, 2011

 

Review Excerpt(s):

Kirkus, Starred Review, April 2010:

“Holm's voice for Turtle is winning and authentic—that of a practical, clear-eyed observer—and her nimble way with dialogue creates laugh-out-loud moments. Sweet, funny and superb.”

 

Booklist, Starred Review, April 2010:

“Holm uses family stories as the basis for this tale, part romp, part steely-eyed look at the Depression era.”

 

Connections:

*Discuss some of the foreshadowing that hinted at Archie leaving in the end. What did he say specifically about sales that make the reader think he might be a little untrustworthy?

*Some good discussion questions compiled by ATPE:

http://www.atpe.org/resources/educators/bookclubfiles/11DecGrades3-6_Questions.pdf

*More historical fiction about the great depression:

Vanderpool, Clare. Moon Over Manifest. ISBN 9780375858291

Hesse, Karen. Out of the Dust. ISBN 9780590371254

Lasky, Kathryn. Christmas After All: The Great Depression Diary of Minnie Swift. ISBN 9780439219433

 

The Ballad of Lucy Whipple

Bibliographic Data: 

 

Cushman, Karen. 1996. The Ballad of Lucy Whipple. New York: Clarion Books.

ISBN 9780395728062

Plot Summary:

The Ballad of Lucy Whipple begins during the year of 1849 and continues with a first person account in which the main character, California Morning Whipple, communicates her experiences of the California gold rush over a three year period. California, who prefers to be called Lucy because California is “an unfortunate name”, has been uprooted from a life she has always known in Massachusetts and thrust into the dirty, uncivilized landscape of Lucky Diggins, a newly formed gold mining community in California. California’s mother sets up a boarding house for the local miners and the family must all earn their keep as the town of Lucky Diggins grows. A fire threatens to break the spirit of Lucky Diggins and California is faced with the decision of whether or not fulfill her initial dream of returning to Massachusetts or stay and become a part of rebuilding the town.

Critical Analysis:

Seeing the California gold rush through a young girl’s eyes is something most would not expect. Many of those involved during this period of American history were mostly men and those who had the notion to attain wealth very quickly.  Author Karen Cushman includes a thoughtful Author’s Note including historical consideration attributing to the reliability of the details within the novel. Cushman incorporates vivid imagery of the conditions of the time and the narrative written through the eyes of the fictitious character, California/Lucy, is one that is descriptive and relatable. The town of Lucky Diggins provides a gritty backdrop to enhance the authenticity relating to the environment of the time. California/Lucy‘s strength grows as the narrative progresses and the young, immature girl who first came to California becomes a determined, independent young woman able to channel her passions into progress.

Awards:

Friends of Children and Literature (FOCAL) Award, 1998

 

Review Excerpt(s):

Kirkus, Starred Review, 1996:

“With a story that is less a period piece than a timeless and richly comic coming-of-age story, Cushman remains on a roll.”

 

Booklist, Starred Review, August 1996:

“With zest and wit, Cushman gives us the domestic side of the western frontier adventure--what it was like for women and especially children.”

 

Connections:

* There are several topics within the novel including dealing with death, racial injustice, and gaining personal independence. Discuss each and why they are important to recognize.

* California/Lucy wrote many letters to her family in Massachusetts detailing the hardships she was facing in California. Have students construct a letter telling about their thoughts and feelings about a hard time they have gone through or might be going through. What do they not like about the situation? Why is it difficult?

*Other young adult novels about the gold rush:

 Avi. Hard Gold: The Colorado Gold Rush of 1859: A Tale of the Old West. ISBN 1423105192  

Olson, Tod. How to Get Rich in the California Gold Rush: An Adventurer’s Guide to the Fabulous Riches Discovered in 1848. ISBN 9781426303159

Gregory, Kristiana. Seeds of Hope: The Gold Rush Diary of Susanna Fairchild, California Territory 1849. ISBN 0590511572

Dead End in Norvelt

Bibliographic Data: 

 

Gantos, Jack. 2011. Dead End in Norvelt. New York: Farrar Straus Giroux.

ISBN 9780374379933

Plot Summary:

Jack Gantos’ summer is not off to a great start. On top of being grounded for the duration of the summer of 1962, he is being forced to write up obituaries dictated by the ancient Miss Volker next door. A chore Jack initially thinks will be torturous actually becomes an interesting history lesson concerning the town of Norvelt, Pennsylvania where he and his family live.  Oddly, elderly women are showing up dead all over town and the town medical examiner and obituary writer, Miss Volker, is assigned to investigate each death. Miss Volker honors each individual by highlighting the positives of their life in their obituary while always being sure to include tidbits from the history for the day they died. This small task takes on a whole new meaning after numerous deaths are reported and Jack is sent on a crazy adventure uncovering the secrets and not-so-flattering details of a town he thought he knew.

Critical Analysis:

The protagonist of the story shares the name of the author, Jack Gantos. Gantos has loosely based the story on his own upbringing in the town of Norvelt, Pennsylvania. The author’s voice is heard clearly through the main character and Jack’s quirkiness is a pleasant addition to the novel’s overall dark plot dealing with death, murder, and conspiracy. Dead End in Norvelt does provide a wealth of historical facts ranging from Francisco Pizzaro and the conquering of the Incan empire to the death of Marilyn Monroe. Gantos weaves historical trivia throughout the novel without overwhelming the reader. The character of Miss Volker is passionate about her town and determined to never let its history die, even though she is powerless to stop the many deaths that are occurring so quickly. One obituary in particular written by Miss Volker states: “When the sun goes down each day it turns its back on the present and steps into the past, but it is never dead.” Gantos creates primary theme that history and its relevance to the current times, whether it is the 1962 setting of the novel or the present day, is something that should not be ignored.  Jack’s character learns that allowing history to fade away is negligent and continuing to learn from the past can enhance one’s future.

Awards:

John Newbery Medal, 2012

Scott O’Dell Award for Historical Fiction, 2012

 

Review Excerpt(s):

Kirkus, Starred Review, April 2011:

“An exhilarating summer marked by death, gore and fire sparks deep thoughts in a small-town lad not uncoincidentally named ‘Jack Gantos.’ The gore is all Jack’s, which to his continuing embarrassment ‘would spray out of my nose holes like dragon flames’ whenever anything exciting or upsetting happens. And that would be on every other page, seemingly . . . Characteristically provocative gothic comedy, with sublime undertones.”

 

Publisher’s Weekly, Starred Review:

“A bit of autobiography works its way into all of Gantos’s work, but he one-ups himself in this wildly entertaining meld of truth and fiction by naming the main character . . . Jackie Gantos.”

 

Booklist, August 2011:

“Gantos, as always, delivers bushels of food for thought and plenty of outright guffaws.”

 

Connections:

*Discuss the element of fear and its many associations with the novel. What are some examples of fear associated with forgetting history? What are some of Jack’s personal fears? What were some fears of the time period (ex. atomic bombs)?

*Here is a great teacher’s guide covering group discussion questions, pre-reading activities, internet resources, and an About the Author section:

http://www.jackgantos.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/Dead-End-in-Norvelt-Teachers-Guide.pdf

Historical fiction emphasizing history and its relevance to society:

Vanderpool, Clare. Moon Over Manifest. ISBN 9780375858291

Other works by Jack Gantos:

Gantos, Jack. Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key. ISBN 978-0312623555

Gantos, Jack. Jack Adrift: Fourth Grade without a Clue. ISBN 9780374437183

Walt Whitman: Words for America

Bibliographic Data: 

 

Kerley, Barbara. 2004. Walt Whitman: Words for America. Ill. Selznick, Brian. New York: Scholastic Press.

ISBN 9780439357913

Plot Summary:

Most of us probably know Walt Whitman for his poetry. However, his involvement with the Civil War might be somewhat unknown to many. The book Walt Whitman: Words for America presents children with a simple story of Walt Whitman’s life and poetry, particularly focusing on his strong emotions against the civil war and his love for America. The book begins by focusing on Whitman’s influences and passion for what makes America great, including its landscape and people. With the Civil War dividing the nation, Whitman sees America differently. He begins to devote his time caring for the wounded soldiers and comforting the dying. His poetry begins to reflect what America is enduring during this time period and captures Whitman’s compassion for his country and fellow man.

Critical Analysis:

Walt Whitman: Words for America is made up of simple and clear text, with vibrant illustrations throughout. An additional author’s note, illustrator's note and sources section is included. The design is visually appealing and the text readable without being overwhelming to the younger reader. Kerley presents the information concerning Whitman’s life in a straightforward manner and includes brief, applicable poem excerpts. Selznick enhances each stage of the book, presenting colorful illustrations with meaningful content. The text follows a story-telling approach that is interesting and informative.

Walt Whitman’s empathy towards America and the people who have helped shape the country is an evident theme throughout the book. Whitman’s sympathy for the soldiers suffering during the Civil War is a great example of how Kerely emphasizes this throughout a large portion of the writing. One example in particular being his devotion to those dying: “…he sometimes stayed in the hospital late into the evening, keeping close but quiet company so that a young soldier would not have to die alone.” Whitman was also known to write letters to the families of those he comforted before death. A letter is included in the story and is a strong testament to Whitman’s devotion to his country.

Awards:

New York Times Best Illustrated Children’s Books of the Year, 2004

Robert F. Sibert Informational Book Medal Honor, 2005

 

Review Excerpt(s):

Kirkus, September 2004:

“A cultural force rendered with power and immediacy for a new generation.”

 

School Library Journal, Starred Review:

“Libraries will want to add this unabashedly glowing tribute as well for the infectious zeal both author and illustrator bring to their subject and his writings, excerpts of which can be found woven seamlessly into the text and the art.”

 

Connections:

*There is an excerpt within the text of the poem O Captain! My Captain! The complete poem is located in the back of the book. Have students read the full version and talk about the individual lines and how they compare with Lincoln’s assassination.

*Other works about Walt Whitman and books showcasing his poetry:

Levin, Jonathan. Poetry for Young People: Walt Whitman. Ill. Burke, Jim. ISBN 9781402754777

Whitman, Walt. When I heard the Learn’d Astronomer. Ill. Long, Loren. ISBN 9780689863974