This week's readings have been a tantalizing mix of non-fiction and historical fiction for young readers. The age range is moving upwards and the books are digging deeper into more serious subject matters. I've certainly discovered authors I will continue to follow.
***********************************************************
text by Sy Montgomery and photographs by Nic Bishop
- Series: Scientists in the Field Series
- Hardcover: 80 pages
- Publisher: HMH Books for Young Readers, Singapore (2010)
- Language: English
- ISBN-10: 0618494170
- Age Range: 10 - 12 years
The story of the efforts to save the last 91 Kakapo parrots from extinction
Book quality
The photographs, history, and first hand experiences documented in this book are spectacular. It's impossible to not fall in love with the parrots and feel the loss when one doesn't make it.
Potential use
This would be a terrific resource for curriculum or homework support.
Content and appeal
Students searching for research on conservation efforts would find this book informative and useful. The writing style is informative and conversational without being dry. At one point (p. 52), the research team and volunteers are weighing the Kakapo chicks and the author gives the weights in kilograms. Then adds in parentheses, "Want to convert to pounds? Multiply by 2.2." It's brilliant and coaxes the reader to participate in the science of the research. The author's passion and point of view are clear all through the book. The inclusion of where to go for more information on conservation efforts helps make this a informative resource for students.
***********************************************************
BOMB
the Race to Build--and Steal--the World's Most Dangerous Weapon
by Steve Sheinkin
the Race to Build--and Steal--the World's Most Dangerous Weapon
by Steve Sheinkin
- Newbery Honor 2013
- Hardcover: 272 pages
- Publisher: Flash Point, Indiana (2012)
- Language: English
- ISBN-10: 1596434872
- Age Range: 10 - 14 years
The story of the world's most formidable weapon, the atomic bomb.
Book quality
This is a history book that reads like an intriguing spy novel! The use of archival photographs help the reader keep track of all the "players" in the story. It is exceptionally well researched and presented as a piece of our world history.
Potential use
With it's exceptional detail to history and science, this would be a tremendous addition for curriculum or homework support in a World War II history unit.
Content and appeal
Because this book reads like a film noir spy novel, it would appeal to history, science and even fiction fans. Even though the recommended age is 10-14, it's certainly one that would be embraced by older readers as well. Showcasing multiple sides to the issue of weapons of mass destruction, this book would certainly challenge the reader's pre-drawn conclusions and thoughts on the issue.
***********************************************************
Beyond the Bright Seaby Lauren Wolk
- Scott O'Dell Award 2018
- Hardcover: 304 pages
- Publisher: Dutton Books for Young Readers, New York (2017)
- Language: English
- ISBN-10: 1101994851
- Age Range: 10 and up
The story of an orphan, determined to know her own history and discovers the true meaning of family.
Book quality
Such a master story teller! The historical elements surrounding the leprosy hospital, island, and society's perspective of the disease is fascinating. Any story that manages to work in pirates and a pirate treasure adventure is, in my opinion, well worth the read.
Potential use
This would be a fantastic addition to a summer reading list, or a classroom read.
Content and appeal
Because the Elizabeth Islands are real, and the real geography was used in the story, it's possible to pull up a map of Massachusetts and trace Crow's boat route around the islands. The story is also an intriguing window into how infectious diseases were treated in the early 20th century, and how society's view effected how they treated Crow. Crow is a resilient, tenacious, and spunky 12 year old! I think her story would appeal to anyone in her age group, not just because of the similar age, but also because that's an age of immense change and an uncertainty of belonging.
***********************************************************
