a. Audience for whom the book is written
b. Audience to whom it will appeal (might differ from a.)
c. Particular strengths of the book
d. Particular weaknesses of the book
e. Any special considerations (artwork, curriculum links, community values, beliefs espoused, etc)
f. And, in the School Library Journal’s format: Your verdict, supported with details
No plot summaries and no spoilers please. Failure to follow that rule will result in revocation of your authoring rights, guaranteed!!
My choice read was “Heartless” by Marissa Meyer
ReplyDeleteA.The book was written for a high school and adult audience.
B.This book would appeal to a high school and adult audience. This audience would be able to appreciate the inventiveness and imagination used to create this extensive story. It is very dark at times and has quite a bit of adult content so it is not recommended for students younger than high school.
C. This is a very extensive, imaginative story that anyone who is a fan of Alice in Wonderland will enjoy. The reader will definitely look at the Queen of Hearts in a whole new way. The story is thought provoking and intense. The reader is introduced to new characters and background of familiar characters is more fully developed. It is a great example of a fractured fairy tale. It has romance, mystery and magic! There are very poignant moments where the reader’s heart aches for Catherine and the decisions she has to make.
D. The lead up to Catherine’s descent into darkness was extremely long and then she suddenly dark and evil. The story is very long and leaves the reader feeling that some of the events could be left out and the story would still be sufficient and interesting. It is questionable whether high schoolers would want to read such a lengthy book.
E. This book would lend itself well to teaching a unit on fractured fairy tales and could be used in conjunction with Alice and Wonderland to discuss the parallels between them.
F. Verdict: Only read this book if you are into very lengthy stories that have a very slow build-up.
The book trailer for this one looks exciting: https://youtu.be/WAgClsBT3ZA
DeleteI do not enjoy books that are lengthy and have a slow build up. Why do you suppose fairy tale plots are often like this? Princess Academy by Shannon Hale was the same way, deserving of the Newbery Medal, but so slow!
I think the reason fairy tales have a slow build up is that they are often geared towards the young and the slow build up allows time for the young to process what is going on. I am curious to to find more out about the Princess Academy. Slow books are definitely a challenge for me.
DeleteMy Choice Book “Dark Energy”
ReplyDeleteA) As a media specialist, I believe the author wrote this book for middle and high school students who enjoy science-fiction and want to entertain the possibility of aliens.
B) As a media specialist, I think this would appeal to students who enjoy science fiction, but also those who enjoy adventure novels or realistic fiction. The information presented in the book provides a critical analysis of our world. I would probably recommend this book to students who say they do not enjoy traditional science-fiction because they can learn a lot from this book about our world.
C) The book is witty, thought-provoking, and well-researched. The author perfectly blended the humor and demeanor of “rebel” and “rich” students in order to make them relatable to all audiences. The topics in the book, while too fantastic to accept as reality, creates conversations about how humans treat each other and how humanity should treat each other. As a Minnesota media specialist, I also appreciated the accuracy of the Midwest city and highway names in the setting.
D) The inciting incident of the book is the arrival of the alien race; thus, the exposition of the characters, their new friendships, and even the mystery of the spaceship is a bit rushed. Even so, events drag along until the last few chapters where the adventure picks up. While the epilogue tries to tie together the lose ends of our characters stories, we do not feel very attached to them because their lives were not the main focus of the story.
E) One of the book’s themes is community and acceptance. Students may feel alienated within their own school because of their looks, interests, or personality. After reading this book a media specialist could have a conversation of acceptance and empathy. The author displays his beliefs of individual identity within a cohesive and supportive group.
F) VERDICT: Though it is a thought-provoking book of a unique genre, the story arc of the book lags. While it provides opportunities to share dialogue about important topics such as outer space, community, and acceptance, media specialists would not have any trouble finding other books with a similar message. Only buy if a middle school or high school library needs more science fiction titles or students have a strong interest in the inter-stellar.
This book takes place in Minnetonka, right? Have you read The Martian? I've heard the science is well done in that book.
ReplyDeleteYes, this book is set in Minnetonka. I have not read The Martian, but it is on my to-read list because it won the Alex Award.
DeleteIlluminae by Jay Kristoff and Amie Kaufman (Gemina – Book #2, Obsidio – Book #3)
ReplyDelete**Read hard copy of book and listened to the audiobook.
a. It was written for 14+ and lovers of adventure and futuristic space fiction.
b. It will appeal, not only to lovers of futuristic science fiction and space stories, but also to lovers of general adventure books. Due to the somewhat complicated and unique layout of the book, I would recommend it for age 14+. There is a little virus/zombie element which adds wider appeal to those who like a little horror and survival stories. There is a love story but it is secondary to the action and plot.
c. One big strength of this book is the audiobook format which is absolutely amazing. It is read by a full cast acting out the script complete with sound effects and never sounds read aloud or contrived. The listening experience creates vivid visuals and immerses the listener in the fast-paced story.
The strength of the written book is the unique format which I haven’t seen in any other YA fiction. The entire book is written as a dossier and contains only interviews, chat conversations, official memos, narrated surveillance video, diagrams and graphic text in shapes. The book starts with a bit of relatable teen drama which then vaults in to full-throttle action, grabbing immediate attention. Another strength is that, even though it is in space and in the future, it does not involve aliens in any way so it also appeals to people who like technology action books but feel aliens are too cliché for space. Another strength is the use of a morally gray villain who keeps the reader curious about his motivation and what he will and won’t do. The book is full of surprises, ending with one of the most epic plot twists I have read in YA fiction and it is presented in a realistic-for-the-story way. The storyline itself, despite the setting of space, gives the book a much wider audience base than science fiction.
d. I see no weakness in the audiobook performance, as I thought it was phenomenal. One main weakness, which is also a strength depending on the reader, is the non-traditional and graphic nature of the book. The miscellaneous text formats can give the reader a disjointed feeling to the story.
e. I actually listen to the audiobook while looking through the hardcover to get a full experience and that would be a great tool for reluctant readers because the audiobook is so engaging, and the format is so unique. Also, because of the visual format of the book, the audiobook needs to have slight alterations in the performance which provide a good opportunity for comparison and contrast and would require careful reading and comprehension while listening.
f. VERDICT: Illuminae is well-paced, action-packed, has a good balance of love story, danger and adventure that is recommended for those who are looking for something new and innovative. The unique format it is written in makes it a must-have for any high school library because of the potential to appeal to reluctant readers with a non-text heavy high action story and also appeals to regular readers across more than just the sci-fi genre fans by branching in to adventure with a touch of horror. The audiobook is also a must have for any library that has the ability to provide it to students.
**Additional information just from one reader to another: This is hands down the most unique and explosive YA trilogy I have read. I can not recommend it highly enough on a personal note, especially the audiobooks. All three books have their own story line and set of characters which then overlap at the end of the 3rd book. The plot twists in each book were amazing and I didn’t believe the authors could keep surprising me but they did. Over and over. If anyone ever does a curriculum lesson or study on audiobooks this trilogy would be a MUST!
These are some book trailers that give you and idea what the text looks like if you haven't seen it.
DeleteIlluminae:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ayFCAvhW8_I
Gemina:
Can't find a good one but here is a clip of the authors reading a chapter.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w6TSJOTjKU8
Obsidio:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8uYspagia_s
Thanks for the detailed review and the links Erin. This looks intriguing!
DeleteIt should be noted that all three of the books do have sexual innuendo but only kissing as far as sexual content. Also, the second book in the series has heavy mention of being “dusted” and one of the main themes/story lines revolves around the space age drug trade.
Delete“Heartless” by Marissa Meyer
ReplyDeleteA) This book was written for young adults.
B) This fantasy book would appeal to young adult and adult fans of “Alice in Wonderland.”
C) “Heartless” is a well-written book that is hard to put down once it pulls you into the story. The language is rich, and it reminds you of “Alice in Wonderland” as you read it. There are many, many references and characters to the original story, but there are some new characters as well.
D) It started out slowly and I didn’t make many connections to the original “Alice in Wonderland” until a little while into the book. Toward the end, the story becomes graphic, which could be difficult for some readers.
E) “Heartless” is a #1 New York Times bestseller and has won the Louisiana YR Choice Book Award and Missouri Gateway Readers Award. At the end of the book there is an Author’s Note that gives some insight to where the ideas in “Heartless” came from.
F) VERDICT: This story of the Queen of Hearts is the prequel to “Alice in Wonderland.” Young adult fans of “Alice in Wonderland” will enjoy this book and the questions it answer. It is magical and very fantastical. Only purchase this book if you are interested in the back story of the Queen of Hearts.
Candy, it seems like back stories of fairy tales are becoming more and more popular. It some ways, I think the authors are trying to get the readers to empathize with the misunderstood. Did you ever see Maleficent? https://youtu.be/JIIgXEGAZgE It certainly made me think of that famous Disney villain differently.
DeleteI never saw "Maleficent" but it would be fun to watch sometime!
DeleteI too read “Heartless!” Seems to be the popular choice!
ReplyDeleteby: Marissa Meyer
A. This was written for high school students.
B. I would recommend this book for students in grades 8 -12 that are interested in fantasy and have a vivid imagination.
C. I appreciate the way the author portrayed the main character in this book. Traditionally the Queen of Hearts is viewed as malicious and sadistic, but “Heartless” readers get to see another side to her. Even though we know how the story ends I often found myself rooting for Catherine and a different ending. I also appreciate the rich and descriptive writing. The way the author describes the characters and setting allow for readers to instantly be transported to Wonderland. Catherine dreams of becoming a baker and opening her own bakery with her best friend. The author describes some of her confections so vividly readers can almost taste them! Many young adults will be able to identify with the main character as she wrestles with her duty to her parents and her own dreams and desires.
D. Some readers may not appreciate the dark and somewhat graphic ending. Also, the book is lengthy which may turn off some readers.
E. This could be a good book to read with “Alice in Wonderland” to compare and contrast. A few characters in the story undergo major transformations by the end (Catherine, Hatta, Jest, Mary Ann). This would be a great book to have students do character studies with.
F. Chock full of fantasy, romance, and action this novel is sure to engage both young adults and imaginative adult alike.
You mention doing a character study. It would be interesting to have YA readers reflect on how we often misjudge based on first impressions where we need to see people from multiple angles, like this book.
DeleteTim Hamilton did adapt this into a graphic novel if you are interested: https://www.amazon.com/Ray-Bradburys-Fahrenheit-451-Authorized/dp/080905101X
ReplyDeleteHBO also made it into a movie; looks intense. I agree with your verdict that it should be considered carefully: https://youtu.be/mNKwe9k55fs
My choice book for the Fantasy, Supernatural, Science Fiction et al category was Huntress by Malinda Lo. I believe this book was written with high school students in mind, especially those with a strong interest in fantasy and adventure stories and those who identify as LGBTQ. The book would have special appeal for girls, since it includes many strong, interesting female characters with complex personalities and relationships. There is some violence, but it is treated very seriously with careful consideration of its consequences for both perpetrators and victims. A lesbian romance between the two main characters is a major feature, but there is no explicit sexual content. Because of this, I believe the book could also be appropriate for strong middle school readers, although the complexity and vocabulary of the writing could be tricky for some.
ReplyDeleteStrengths of the book include a well-developed fantasy setting that feels rich and believable from the first pages, complete with a beautiful map printed in the front of the book that the reader can easily use to follow the characters’ progress throughout the story. There is a system of magic inspired by the Chinese I Ching, which feels grounded and realistic in the context of the story world. Perhaps the greatest achievement is the depiction of the two main characters and their romance, which is tender and relatable in its intense emotions, and unfolds satisfyingly over the course of the book. I enjoyed this read immensely and struggle to think of many weaknesses, though there was a strange story turn toward the end that caught me off-guard and frustrated me a bit. There were also some story elements that went unresolved, but this is a prequel to another book so that is unsurprising. I look forward to reading as much as I can from this author!
I don’t have a background in Chinese culture or philosophy, but from what I can tell and have read about this book there are elements of both woven into the story world. This could make for an interesting curriculum tie-in for students reading Chinese texts or learning about Chinese language and culture. I also appreciate that this is a more diverse fantasy story that effortlessly includes many versions of feminine identity and a queer romance without dwelling too much on discrimination or suffering resulting from those identities. VERDICT: Huntress is a rich, thoughtful fantasy romance with a compelling cast of characters that many readers will not be able to put down. It is an excellent choice for high school collections and will allow girls and LGBTQ students to see aspirational characters represented in a fantasy setting.
Sounds like an intriguing book Cassidy! Thanks for sharing your detailed analysis.
DeleteThe book I read for my choice book is, The Lightning Thief. Book one of the series: Percy Jackson and the Olympians by Rick Riordan.
ReplyDeletea. The intended audience for the book, Percy Jackson and the Lighting Thief is ages 10 plus. The target reader would be an older elementary or middle schooler that would be introduced to the fantasy genre.
b. The audience that this book would appeal to would be of the intended ages for the book and one that could be interested in mythology, adventure, and friendship books.
c. Particular strengths of this book are it’s attainable length, age appropriate reading level, and quick pacing of the story. The book is the beginning of a long series with parallel series that would appeal to the readers. Another strength of the book is an introduction to the fantasy genre for many newer readers with an emphasize on Greek mythology that could hook readers to learn more about this topic. One important strength of the book is that the main character is diagnosed with both dyslexia and ADHD and these become part of that characters most important qualities.
d. One weakness of the book could be if a child wasn’t familiar with Greek mythology (gods and monsters) or didn’t have access to a non-fiction book explaining these characters, the story could feel intimidating and overwhelming. Much of the story could go over their heads and they could be put off of the genre. Another weakness is the movie made of the book, the story in the movie doesn’t compare to the book and if a child has seen the movie, they may feel inclined to skip the books because either they feel they know what will happen or they didn’t like the movie.
e. Special considerations are that this story has scenes that could be perceived as scary with mention of monsters, powers, and death. Another consideration is that since this is a long series, one must make sure to have access to the other books in the series for the readers that get hooked. Information on mythology for the readers to reference will also come in handy.
f. Verdict: Book talk this with all of your 10+ readers that might be interested in fantasy or adventure books. Be ready with support in regards to non-fiction reference on mythology. The audiobook version is also read with great acting to support students that are reading emotionally for the story but aren’t at the reading level. Push this fun book on your fifth graders!
Great information in your post Shannon! I just checked and my copy of The Lightning Thief does not have a glossary in the back of mythological terms. There is one in The Trials of Apollo. Perhaps Rick Riordan has learned through the years that his books need further explanation. I like how these books have the potential to spur kids on to learn more about the Greeks, Romans, and mythology. I think there is more reference to it in pop culture than we realize! I agree, 5th grade is the perfect age for these books!
DeleteMy 11-year-old son, Caleb, LOVES all Rick Riordan books! He didn't have much prior knowledge of Greek Mythology before reading the Percy Jackson series but now he can't get enough. Rick Riordan even wrote "Percy Jackson's Greek Heroes" that we found in the non-fiction section of the library and Caleb was extremely excited.
Deletea. Audience for whom the book is written: High School to adult
ReplyDeleteb. Audience to whom it will appeal: High School to adult, some
older middle school students
c. Particular strengths of the book: The book's six main
characters are teenagers who are all misfits, but
extremely strong. The reader's favorite character will
depend on the chapter one is reading. Each one is fully
developed and endearing in his or her own way. Diversity
is strongly represented including race, ethnicity,
sexuality, religion, and disabilities. Plot twists and
the cliff hanger will keep the reader on his or her toes
through the entire book.
d. Particular weaknesses of the book: violence, thievery,
addiction, prostitution and homosexual interest that are
alluded to but not explained in detail
e. Any special considerations: This book is part of a duology and
a #1 New York Times bestseller. “A master of
fantasy”-The Huffington Post. “A heady blend of fantasy,
romance, and adventure”-Rick Riordan. Maps are included.
f. VERDICT: Six of Crows and the second book Crooked Kingdom
should be in high school libraries for anyone who loves
to read fantasy and action/adventure books. It should be
in high school libraries only because the subject matter
included in the book is too mature for younger
audiences. The reader will not be able to put the book
down, and will have to get the second of the book in the
duology immediately in order to know what happens.
Glad to read you could not put this one down Courtney! So fun to find a great series!
DeleteMiss Peregrin's Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs. Audience - age range listed by Kirkus reviews is 12-14. With some slightly sexual references and some mild language and violence, the audience it might best appeal to would be grades 7-12. Strengths - this “realistic” fantasy novel appeals to a variety of readers with content set both modern and WWII time periods. The characters have strong appeal and an intriguing story line that keeps the reader’s attention. Weaknesses - I felt the storying was a bit slow to start at first but I’m glad I stayed with it. This might deter impatient readers. Special considerations - this novel could appeal to a wide reading audience. Kids who love the WWII genre could get hooked by the time loop the story is partially set in. Some material and references were a bit mature - some sexual language, violence, and horror might cause question to be aware of for younger readers. Verdict: A wide range of readers would enjoy this first book in a series about “peculiar” children who live in different time warps to protect themselves from the outside world and the “Hollows” that haunt them but their world gets upset when modern day Jacob joins their world. Three words: Time, Peculiar, Bird
ReplyDeleteI might have to add this to my summer reading. With so many "new" books, it's hard to go back to classics. But if it has parallels to today's world, I should pick it up again! Or maybe I check out the graphic novel even though that genre isn't my favorite. But I feel like I should know and remember more classics if I am to enter this IM world!
ReplyDeleteI read this in high school but I don't remember much about it. It's one I might need to read again!
ReplyDelete