Olive's Ocean

SLIS 5420- Module 15





Olive's Ocean by Kevin Henkes


Bibliography:
Henkes, K. Olive's Ocean. Greenwillow Books. (2003).

Summary:
Olive Bartow was not a friend of Martha's. In fact, she was not friends with anyone, a loner in the middle school where Martha attended. It did not make sense that her unexpected death would affect Martha so deeply, and most likely would not have if not for Olivia's mother finding a page from her journal and delivering it to Martha. The page spoke of Olivia's hopes and dreams, including befriending Martha at school. Unsettled by Olivia's thoughts, Martha enters into her family's summer vacation at her grandma's house on the coast with visions of Olivia, comparing her life to that of a girl she never knew, and how she could honor the memory of a girl who longed to see the ocean that she was enjoying now.

Martha's summer is filled with picnics on the beach, meaningful conversations with Godbee, her wise grandmother in whom Martha can confide, the excitement of first love and crash of disappointment when illusion is met with reality, and thoughts of Olivia. Written in accessible language and in a manner that moves the plot ever-forward with Martha through her days on the beach, Olivia's Ocean is a quick but meaningful read, guaranteed to cause the reader to contemplate issues of friendship, love, death, and selflessness.

Thoughts:
Knowing that Olive's Ocean is considered to be a controversial book, I was expecting exposure to intense young adult issues- sex, suicide, depression, etc. What I found was an honest look at an adolescent girl, struggling to make sense of the death of a classmate amidst family drama, the complications of young love, and discovering a hidden passion for her life yet fear to reveal it to anyone, in case her hopes should be dashed. I found myself drawn to Martha, the typical 12 year-old girl who loves her best friend, enjoys a love/hate relationship with her older brother, fights rebellious tendencies toward her parents, and, most of all, wants to be accepted. Martha is real. She is accessible and believable, and the reader wants her to find happiness amidst her turmoil.

The issues dealt with in this book are real-life issues that I feel are dealt with quite appropriately. Rarely are teenagers equipped to deal with the death of a classmate or begin to understand the fact that grandparents will not live forever. Sexual issues are touched on but not explored deeply; a brief reference made by Martha's brother regarding their parents' sex life is the one blatant comment in the entire work. This comment, though unexpected, actually served to make the parents' relationship seem more stable and loving, whereas before they were depicted as tense and struggling. Martha experiences her first kiss in a tricky, deceptive way, and is forced to deal with her own emotions and embarrassment. Her experience serves to remind the adolescent reader that people are not always what they seem, and sometimes experiences with the opposite sex are just that: experiences.

In my opinion, Olive's Ocean is more valuable as a novel than controversial, and allows teenagers the chance to work through issues that they are either going through at present, or those that will be faced in their future.

Reviews:
"As Martha and her family prepare for their annual summer visit to New England, the mother of her deceased classmate comes to their door. Olive Barstow was killed by a car a month earlier, and the woman wants to give Martha a page from her daughter's journal. In this single entry, the 12-year-old learns more about her shy classmate than she ever knew: Olivia also wanted to be a writer; she wanted to see the ocean, just as Martha soon will; she hoped to get to know Martha Boyle, as 'she is the nicest person in my whole entire class.' Martha cannot recall anything specific she ever did to make Olive think this, but she's both touched and awed by their commonalities. She also recognizes that if Olive can die, so can she.... At the Cape, Martha is again reminded that things in her life are changing. She experiences her first kiss, her first betrayal, and the glimmer of a first real boyfriend, and her relationship with Godbee, her elderly grandmother, allows her to examine her intense feelings, aspirations, concerns, and growing awareness of self and others. Rich characterizations move this compelling novel to its satisfying and emotionally authentic conclusion.... Though Martha remains the focus, others around her become equally realized, including Olive, to whom Martha ultimately brings the ocean." -School Library Journal

"More than anything Martha wants to be a writer. The problem is that her father does, too. Is there room for two writers in a single family? This is only one of the many questions that beg to be answered during Martha's twelfth summer. Here are others: Is Godbee, the paternal grandmother whom the family is visiting at Cape Cod, dying? Why is Martha's father so angry? Could Jimmy, the eldest of the five neighboring Manning brothers, be falling in love with her (and vice versa)? And what does all this have to do with Olive, Martha's mysterious classmate, who died after being hit with a car weeks earlier? Olive, who also wanted to be a writer and visit the ocean, and hoped to be Martha's friend. Like Henke's Sun and Spoon (1997), this is another lovely, character-driven novel that explores, with rare subtlety and sensitivity, the changes and perplexities that haunt every child's growing-up process. He brings to his story the same bedrock understanding of the emotional realities of childhood that he regularly displays in his paradigmatically perfect picture books. This isn't big and splashy, but its quiet art and intelligence will stick with readers, bringing them comfort and reassurance as changes inevitably visit their own growing-up years." - Booklist

Ideas for Use:
Olive's Ocean lends itself to great discussion about deeper issues that young adults are just beginning to face- death, the possibility of death, and how that makes us choose to live our lives. As morbid as it sounds, the teacher or librarian using this book could, with its' reading, start discussion about whether or not the students have known anyone who has died or is near death. How does it make them feel? Talk about Martha's own near-death experience, and how it changes her outlook on life. Either discuss or write about how you would live your life if you knew your days were numbered. Of course, before entering into this depth of conversation, let parents know that this issue is coming up, what discussion questions would be used, and how you as the teacher plan to put a positive spin on the issue.

This book would also be a good jump-start for a look at writers and how they go about writing novels. As Martha struggles to find her way as a beginning writer, professional writers most likely had the same experience when they got started. Do brief author studies on how some of our favorite writers got started, and encourage the class to start keeping a journal in which they can write their own stories and thoughts, as well as springboard from assigned prompts. One such assignment could stem from Martha's own page of first-lines. Have students choose one of Martha's first-lines of a poem, and complete the poem on their own. Invite students to share their poems with the class if they wish.

Hotel Deep: Light Verse From Dark Waters

SLIS 5420- Module 14



Hotel Deep: Light Verse from Dark Waters by Kurt Cyrus

Bibliography:

Cyrus, K. Hotel Deep: Light Verse from Dark Water. Harcourt, Inc. (2005).

Summary:

Through the eyes of a lost sardine, somehow separated from his school, Kurt Cyrus takes readers on a mysterious adventure through the dark, deep waters of the ocean. Creative verse and beautiful paintings illustrate the lives of various sea creatures, from the bottom-dwelling flounder to the darting and dangerous marlin. Poems physically take shapes that illustrate the movement of each creature, curling up and around the page or striking hard and angular lines that resemble the appendages of crayfish as they scuttle across the ocean floor. The personalities of ocean creatures are revealed page by page, until the sardine finally finds his way back to the safety of his school. Cyrus makes poetry fun and interesting in this intriguing look at the mysteries of the deep.

Thoughts:

This book of verse is a fun and whimsical introduction to poetry for elementary students. Almost poetry-in-disguise, the reader is immediately intrigued by the physical layout of poems, as well as the mysterious introduction that invites readers to plunge into the unknown territory of the deep ocean. The subject matter is engaging for students, and the variety of creatures holds their interest. Hotel Deep is a fun example of poems embodying their subject matters. Exclamation points, italics, and short, choppy sentences illustrate the dashing movements of the dangerous marlin. Crayfish march one by one, step by step with precision to an unknown location, illustrated by lines and declaratives. The winding pattern of the sea snake flows through two pages, words swirling with the snake as he stalks his prey. Hotel Deep is a good book for reluctant readers of poetry, as its creatively assembled poems and beautiful illustrations almost make the reader forget that they are reading poetry at all. Some of the language and tone may be difficult for younger readers, but all will find the whimsy of these poems enjoyable and interesting.

Reviews:

"Untitled verses describe a colorful array of ocean creatures, both benign and dangerous, observed by a lone sardine searching for the swirling band of companions that he lost when the school spun out of the range of an invading marlin. "Where did everyone go?/One sardine. Apart. Alone./Welcome to the Mystery Zone." The handsome, busy views convey mystery with clever placement of creatures–some unnamed, some partially hidden, some more realistic than others. Though the sardine is mostly a passing observer, his continuing presence lends a bit of story line to the energetic scenes of underwater life. Moments of fear and danger thread throughout. "Life in the sea offers little that's free;/There's always a devil to pay." There's plenty to see and ponder though some oblique references and the sometimes mocking tone will elude many children. A thumbnail picture-glossary names some 28 species of marine life but provides no explanations or added information. Overall, this is a cheerful tour for browsers that also offers possibilities for shared reading." - School Library Journal

"Deep in the ocean a tiny sardine is lost in a great coral reef. Cyrus' lavishly colored, detailed paintings show the creatures that lurk in the gorgeous underworld, and in some of his accompanying poems, the language flows like the action it describes. It darts, swerves, and swivels on the page like the sardine; swoops, then loops like a calico scallop; swells into a prickly sack like a porcupine fish; and swirls like a crayfish through a seaweed curtain. The vibrant visuals grab all the attention; there's no space to imagine other images to match Cyrus' words. But the sounds of the poetry are as much fun as the exciting action in the wild setting, making this a great read-aloud for sharing--even with younger grade-schoolers." - Booklist

Ideas for Use:

Hotel Deep would be a great resource to use in the classroom outside of a poetry unit. By using a book of verse such as this in studying something like the ocean, students are immersed in poetry in its true form without their being intimidated by the concept. A teacher can use this book as a springboard for a unit on the ocean, combining science with poetry. Students can research an ocean creature of his or her choice, then write a poem about the creature using what they have learned. Teachers may also wish to use this book as an example and lead-in to a unit on a different habitat, such as the rainforest or desert. Students can use the same ideas found in Hotel Deep and write poems creatures found in those various habitats and their behaviors. Poems can be illustrated and displayed together in a replication of the habitat that is represented.

Otto's Orange Day

SLIS 5420- Module 13



Otto's Orange Day by Jay Lynch



Bibliography:
Lynch, J. Otto's Orange Day. RAW Junior, LLC. (2008).

Summary:

Otto the cat LOVES the color orange. He wears it, colors with it, even writes songs about it. Thinking that orange-loving Otto would like the orange lamp she found, Aunt Sally Lee sends Otto a package full of surprise. As Otto dusts off his new orange lamp, a genie appears to grant him one wish. Otto wishes the whole world to be orange. Initially thrilled by this new orange world, Otto soon discovers that a single-color world may not be the best idea. Problems crop up here and there due to the world's orange state, and Otto and his Aunt Sally Lee must put their minds together to right the world to its natural, colorful state. This book, presented in comic-like, graphic novel layout, moves quickly and appeals to the eye as attention is drawn from block to block of illustration and bubble texts. Illustrations move from colorful to orange as Otto's wish is granted, then to blue when Aunt Sally Lee's is granted. The reader begins to understand the monotony of singular color and is ready for the world (and illustrations) to be changed back into its' multicolor state. Otto's Orange Day is a quick and easy read, yet is not "dumbed-down" or too childish for the reader.

Thoughts:

Otto's Orange Day was my introduction to the graphic novel, a genre I was reluctant to read. Not a fan of comic books myself, I imagined that illustration would dominate and quality writing would take a back seat in this book. I was proved wrong. Otto's Orange Day is a delightful and humorous tale of a cat whose wish for an orange world is granted by a genie, much to Otto's pleasure. However, as Otto lives out his day, the downfalls of such a world become more and more apparent. The reader is introduced to problems created by this orange world that they may not have thought of before, such as orange food tasting wierd, and orange traffic lights causing wrecks. I love that the clever illustrations highlight this orange world, and last long enough in the book to make the reader want a change of color- which is what Otto ultimately decides. This book is shelved in the "Easy Reader" section of our public library, and I feel that it is a more than appropriate choice for young readers. The language is simple yet not condescending, and the story moves in a logical and accessible pace. I can see how graphic novels such as these appeal to both young and youth readers alike, as they play on visual appeal, yet still offer quality stories and thought-provoking writing.

Reviews:

"Two veteran cartoonists collaborate to create a comic-strip-style book for beginning readers. Otto, an orange cat, recieves a mysterious lamp from his aunt. While dusting it off, he releases the genie that resides within and is offered a wish as a reward. Otto declares that he would like everything in the world to be orange, his favorite color; however, after his wish is granted, the results- including a bad-tasting orange lamb chop and an orange-only traffic light that causes car accidents- soon cause him to have second thoughts. With the help of Aunt Sally Lee, Otto outsmarts the genie and sets things right. Each page features one to four panels and the bulk of the story is told through dialogue balloons. The cartoons are lively and colorful. Clear chapter divisions, a clean graphic design, and large-size print makes this title more appropriate for early readers than most comic-book offerings. Still, true beginners may have some trouble with some of the vocabulary and struggle to follow the narrative flow. Offer this book to readers with a bit of experience under their belts and an interest in comics and cartoons." -School Library Journal

" Written by '60's underground comic guru Lynch and Eisner-nominated Cammuso, who also did the artwork, this book in the new TOON imprint gives emerging readers a high-quality comic that is both loads of fun and easy to read. It's a simple, archetypal story- Otto, a little orange-loving cat wishes 'everything was orange,' but when a genie grants his wish, he realizes that he should have been more careful what he wished for: orange lamb chops... 'Blaach!!!' This is a textbook example of how to use page composition, expanding panel size, color, and stylized figures to make sequential art fresh, energetic, and lively. With the particular pedigree of the book's creators, however, one can't help but miss avant-garde subversiveness that made Little Lit books (e.g. Strange Stories for Strange Kids, 2001) for older children so thrilling and unique. Even without that element, though, this book is sure to engage a new generation in the art form; kids will want to read it once, then return to it again and again." - Booklist

Ideas for Use:

This graphic novel provides an interesting look at different formats of quality writing. A teacher of mid-level to upper-level elementary students can use this book to introduce the comic-strip style of writing. Students can analyze comics, their layout, how stories are told (dialogue boxes), and how illustrations play into the telling of the graphic story. Inspired by Otto's orange wish, have students work in groups or independently to think of a wish they might have for the genie, or what would happen if they wished for a different color for the world's landscape. As they compose their story, the final product should be told in graphic style, either comic-strip or graphic novel form like that demonstrated in Otto's Orange Day. Other graphic novels should be made available for reference and comparison.

The Road to Oz

SLIS 5420- Module 12



The Road to Oz: Twists, Turns, Bumps, and Triumphs in the Life of L. Frank Baum by Kathleen Krull
Bibliography:

Krull, K. The Road to Oz: Twists, Turns, Bumps, and Triumphs in the Life of L. Frank Baum. Alfred A. Knopf. (2008).

Summary:

In this pleasantly accessible biography, young readers are introduced to L. Frank Baum, future creator of the legendary children's book, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. Though raised in the lap of luxury, Baum was a hard worker and risk-taker, spending much of his life looking for his big break, whether in the business world, acting world, or writing. Gifted with good humor, imagination, and persistence, Baum never lost hope that he would indeed find his one true calling. After multiple monetary troubles and business failings, and at the urging of his mother-in-law, Baum finally decides to put down on paper the stories he so easily and giftedly spun for his children at bedtime. The Wonderful Wizard of Oz was born out of these childlike stories and propelled Baum into instant fame and fortune. He would continue writing a series based on the lives of the people of Oz, and was constantly motivated by the desire to entertain children with stories of imagination and wonder. The book leaves the reader observing Baum at his best- storytelling in the garden- but allows the reader a further look at the remainder of his life in a brief detailed biographical extension at the end of the story. The Road to Oz is a beautifully, colorfully illustrated, well-told story of a man who impacted children's literature for years to come.

Thoughts:

Frank Baum is painted in a positive light in The Road to Oz, beginning with a look at what could be called a lazy and luxurious childhood if not for Baum's ingenuity and imagination. Posessing a gift for bold ideas, Frank never fails to take a risk, despite the fact that his risks rarely pay off. When one would expect to read of disappointment and disillusion, I was delighted to find that Baum remained in good humor and perseverance, firmly believing in his dreams with the support of a loving family behind him. The colorful illustrations captured the colorful life and imagination of Baum himself, and cleverly hint at future characters that come to life in The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. This biography, aimed at young readers, gives an example of a true story that acknowledges failures and mistakes, yet focuses on the positive attributes of the person whose life we are learning about. One can learn a lesson of persistence, patience, and imagination through the life of Frank Baum, and ends the story understanding that Baum finally found what he loved and worked at it for the rest of his life. This tale is honest, positive, and inspiring without glossing over Baum's financial shortfalls. I recommend this book as a positive introduction to biography for young readers!

Reviews:

"Fans of The Wizard of Oz will find plenty of enchantment in this thoughtful, brightly illustrated narrative. From his childhood at his parents' estate, with its 'rosebushes in glimmering-jewel colors,' to his various careers as journalist, playwright, chicken expert, window dresser (including his creative display of hardware fashioned into a tin man), store owner, newspaper editor, and family storyteller, Krull magically interweaves the origins of Baums characters and themes that would appear in his 'modern American fairy tales.' The 'Oz' books were his only true success, but they did not result in a fairy-tale ending for the Baum family. With sympathy for her subject, Krull tactfully notes Baum's lack of aptitude for business affairs and his eventual declaration of bankruptcy. Hawkes' merry paintings of the author and his characters invoke the magic of Oz within the great author's real-world setting. The Road to Oz will provide students with an inspiring introduction to Baum's life." - School Library Journal

"Despite the enduring popularity of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, there are few titles about L. Frank Baum published for youth. Krull's new picture-book biography, then, is particularly welcome, and it displays Krull's usual stylistic strengths:a conversational tone, well-integrated facts, vivid antecdotes, and sly asides that encourage children to find the human qualities in a historical figure. Beginning with Baum's pampered youth, Krull moves forward through his early adult years, when he flailed in a variety of jobs before finally writing his famous first book about Oz, which he based on bedtime stories he created for his children. Krull gives a balanced account, emphasizing Baum's creative gifts and his talents for nurturing his family while frankly referencing his less-admirable traits, such as his prejudice against Native Americans. Hawkes's ink-and-acrylic illustrations are uneven, with some figures appearing blurred and hurriedly rendered, but the brightly-colored compositions do support the sense of Baum as a multifaceted, fascinating individual. An author's note, sources, and a list of Baum's works conclude this entertaining, lively portrait." - Booklist

Ideas for Use:

The Road to Oz provides a wonderful background for a look at modern American fairy tales, as Baum's famous work, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, introduced America to the appeal of this genre. After reading of the life of Frank Baum and his creation of Oz, read the book together and then watch the movie. Compare the two (movie and book) and discuss how students think Baum would feel about the movie- if it matches closesly with his book, or if it is different than they think he imagined. For extension activities, students may read the further works in Baum's series on Oz, and compare these books to the original book.

George Washington's Teeth

SLIS 5420- Module 11

George Washington's Teeth by Deborah Chandra and Madeleine Comora







Bibliography:


Chandra, D., and Comora, M. George Washington's Teeth. Farrar Straus Giroux. (2003).

Summary:
Told in clever, lilting rhyme, George Washington's Teeth relays the "true" story of Washington's lifelong plight of dental decay and troublesome false teeth. The end of the book provides a timeline of actual documented dental issues relayed by Washington, complete with names of dentists, correspondence with such dentists, others' observations of Washington's countenance due to problems with false teeth, and Washington's own fears regarding discovery of his problem.


Thoughts:
Being taught all through my educational career that George Washington had wooden teeth, I was intrigued by what claims to be the "actual story" of George Washington's teeth. Expecting a traditional informational book format (facts, lots of words, photographs, etc.), I was pleasantly surprised to find beautiful and humorous illustrations and fun, understandable rhyme telling the unheard story of George Washington's long history of tooth troubles. I admit that, upon reading, I was skeptical as to the accuracy of some of the "facts" presented- they seemed too much like a folk tale or rumor passed down through the years to be true (losing all of his teeth but one?!). However, the timeline and list of sources at the end of this book sold me on its validity, and cause me to praise its clever and unique way of presenting what could otherwise be obscure information, capturing the attention and intrigue of the reader. I applaud Deborah Candra and Madeleine Comora for their appealing to young readers and making history interesting and fun!


Reviews:
"In a clever approach to history, Chandra and Comora string together spry stanzas describing the dental difficulties that plagued George Washington. Rhyming verse explains how the general's rotten teeth gradually fall out during the Revolutionary War.... Cole complements this verse by rendering a sly watercolor twist on Emanuel Leutze's famous painting, 'George Washington Crossing the Delaware,' in a full-spread treatment: Washington still stands in quiet dignity, but the boatmen are grinning.... Kids will love the details, such as the way Washington uses a pair of his molars to fashion a mold from which the dentist makes a set of dentures.... Infusing his bustling watercolor vignettes with comic hyperbole, Cole easily keeps pace with the lighthearted narrative....A highly palatable historical morsel." - Publisher's Weekly

"Second only to kids' curiosity about George Washington and the cherry tree may be their interest in his teeth. Did the prez wear wooden dentures? Chandra and Comora set the record straight with wit, verve, and a generous amount of sympathy for poor Washington and his dental woes. Unfurling smoothly against a backdrop of Washington's career as a soldier and president, the tale goes forward in sprightly, read-aloud rhyme that never falters.... And illustrator Cole is at his best here, totally at ease with human gesture and expression. Each spread is a tableaulike scene (or scenes) filled with costumed characters busily engaged in humorously visualizing the actual history. The color palate and energy of the art harks back to Cole's Buttons (1999), but there's much more detail and movement in these pictures, which work well as amusing preparation for the more sedately illustrated, annotated timeline of George's actual dental decay that preceeds a full roundup of historical sources the authors used in telling the tale. This is history for youngsters that will stick; it's wild and fun and factual, without a trace of mockery." - Booklist

Ideas for Use:

This story would serve as an excellent introduction to either a unit/research project on our presidents. As George Washington was the first president of the United States, it is only fitting that he should be the first subject in a presidential examination. After reading this story, clarifying rumors and identifying a little-known fact about his personal life, students should be encouraged to select a president to research, and find at least one little-known but interesting fact about him to share with the class. These facts can be compiled into a presidential timeline, showing each president's picture and displaying their fact below.

George Washington's Teeth could also be used as an introduction to biographies, offering an example of a type of biography that lets the reader learn more in-depth information about a person that what the public typically knows. Reading this book can lead into students choosing a person that they wish to know more details about, and selecting a biography or autobiography to meet that need.

The Greatest Skating Race

SLIS 5420- Module 10

The Greatest Skating Race by Louise Borden


Bibliography:
Borden, L. The Greatest Skating Race. Margaret K. McElderry Books. (2004).

Summary:
In the winter of 1941, Piet Janssen, a young Dutch boy, is wrapped up in the Netherlands' first love: skating. His father a skate-maker himself, Piet dreams of skating like his hero, Pim Mulier, who skated in the first ever Elfstedentocht, a race that takes place between eleven towns, only when the canals in Northern Netherlands freeze and connect all of them. Piet's dreams become a near reality when the war begins to hit close to home.
When a family's father is taken by German soldiers, the children must find their way across the Belgian border to stay with their aunt in safety. Because of German occupation, adults can see no way to escape without suspicion. Their only option is to send Piet and the two children to the canals, to skate unheeded across the Belgian border into safety.
Based on the actual race completed by Pim Mulier, as well as the Netherlands' rich history in skating, The Greatest Skating Race is an inspirational and uplifting story of selflessness and sacrifice for the sake of another's freedom.

Thoughts:
I love this book. Written simply yet eloquently, The Greatest Skating Race provides a unique and endearing look at even the youngest players in World War II, and how all were willing to risk something (freedom, even their lives) for the safety of a friend. Starting the story with a childlike look at Piet, Borden draws the reader in and creates an emotional connection with not only Piet, a young boy with big dreams, but also with the Netherlands in general, and its people's unwillingness to give up their way of life in spite of German occupation. Immediately I found myself wanting to defend the peaceful people of this country, and was even a bit envious of their ability to still find the good among the bad happening around them.
Borden's connection between this famous race that is the climax of Piet's dreams with the necessity of escape to safety is seamless, and the reader sees how Piet's dream of racing equips him with the ability and determination to perform an otherwise dangerous and impossible task. The reader fears for their safety, but is assured by Piet's encouragement and calm. Beautiful illustrations paint a peaceful picture of the Netherlands' striking beauty and hint at its deep heritage as a people.

Reviews:
"This slice of historical fiction celebrates the bravery and resourcefulness of children. In the winter of 1941, 10-year-old Piet, a strong skater, is enlisted to lead two young neighbors from Holland to safety over the ice to relatives in Belgium after their father is arrested for sending messages to allied forces. The three children leave their home in Sluis and bravely skate 16 kilometers on the canals to Brugge. They outwit and hide from German soldiers and make it to their destination in one long, difficult day. Told with immediacy and suspense from Piet's point of view, the engaging narrative is arranged in columns, which is an ideal structure to relate the action in short sentences.... The gorgeously detailed watercolor illustrations capture a sense of the time. The subdued, winter hues of brown and smoky gray are those often found in the oil paintings of Dutch and Flemish masters and match the quiet tone of the text. The book's format maximizes the drama and expanse of the landscape." - School Library Journal

"In this exciting World War II picture book for older children, a boy in the Netherlands helps two children escape to Belgium, where they will be safe from German soldiers. Piet, 10, is inspired by his country's great skating champion, and he has always dreamed of taking part in the famous national race. Now, however, he must race with Johanna and her little brother, Joop, along the frozen canals, past German guards, and over the border to safety. Piet's long, lucid, first-person narrative appears in short dramatic lines... and Daly's sepia-tone illustrations stay true to the boy's viewpoint, both in the few tense, full-page close-ups (as when the children confront the border guards) and in the spacious views of kids speeding through the white landscape. The focus on the historic skating race is sometimes confusing, but the war is always in the background, and the physical reality of the thrilling rescue will hold skating fans." - Booklist

Ideas for Use:
This story is a great introduction to a literary unit on World War II for elementary students. After reading this book, talk with the students about other ways they think children could help in a war effort. Brainstorm together, and explain that these are not just ideas; children did help in the the war effort in World War II, from working on the home front to carrying out dangerous tasks to slip past unsuspecting soldiers. As a part of this unit, read books such as Number the Stars by Lois Lowry, and Snow Treasure by Marie McSwigan, and have students research child involvement in World War II.

Ruby in the Smoke

SLIS 5420- Module 9

Ruby in the Smoke by Philip Pullman

Bibliography:
Pullman, P. Ruby in the Smoke. Alfred A. Knopf. (1985).

Summary:
Sally Lockhart needs answers. Her father's untimely death in the China Sea seemed to be a tragedy of his shipping trade until a mysterious letter brings to Sally a warning and a clue. Wanting to find the truth behind Captain Lockhart's death, Sally finds herself in a web of suspicious and sinister characters, all tied together by the legend of an enchanted ruby and their desires to posess the treasure themselves. An evil old woman, threatening bodyguards, and former "friends" of her father are all in pursuit of Sally and the knowledge they believe she holds regarding the ruby. Finding help of her own from unlikely friends, Sally manages to weave through the maze of mystery created by lost journals, cryptic clues, and clouded visions brought about by the Victorian drug-of-choice, opium, to get to the bottom of her father's death.

Thoughts:

Gripped by the first page of this story, where the reader is promised both death and intrigue, I was anxious to see how Sally Lockhart, a young, seeminlgy frail girl, would turn out to be the heroine of a critically acclaimed mystery novel. As I continued to read (and was, in fact, unable to stop), I found that Sally Lockhart, though quiet and unassuming, was a complex and deep character. She is obedient to her superiors, polite, inquisitive, and yet shows bravery and initiative in seeking out the truth of her father's death, despite the dangers and unpleasantries she must face.

The assortment of characters keeps the reader on his toes, as it is possible that any of the sinister (and even seemingly innocent) men and women may be related in some form or fashion to either Sally's father, the ruby, or Sally herself. The plot twists and turns as it takes us from London to Oxford to South China, and back to the slums and opium dens of the wharf. Suspicious settings and relationships between characters add to the novel's intrigue, and I could not put it down until the death of Sally's father was resolved. Though this book does contain heartache- murder, drugs, kidnapping, etc. and has a melodramatic flair, it is just what the reader of a mystery wants to read, all neatly tied up at the end. I recommend this book to both young adult readers and adults!

Reviews:

"Pullman's Victorian melodrama boasts a sufficiency of mystery, murder, and hairbreadth escapes involving a big cast of honest and ignoble types. 'On a cold, fretful afternoon in early October 1872,' the story begins, young Sally Lockhart is in London where she tries to find out the meaning of 'the Seven Blessings.' The phrase appears in a message from her recently deceased father, drowned in the South China Sea. When a colleague of her father hears the words, he dies instantly of a heart attack. That event marks the start of crises that go on with no let-up in the colorful Dickensian tale. Sally's legacy, supposedly a fantastic ruby, is nowhere to be found. A gang of cutthroats pursue the girl and her loyal allies, as the story sweeps on to a resounding close." - Publisher's Weekly

"A rip-roaring adventure story filled with cutthroat villians, dastardly deeds, sleazy opium dens, filthy London slums, and a delightful heroine.... Splendind descriptions, plot twists and turns, and understated humor engage readers in this tale of murder, mayhem, and mystery." - School Library Journal

Ideas for Use:

Activities for this book would be fun to do in the midst of reading, rather than waiting until the end. After talking briefly about "suspects" and how mysteries provide many suspects that could be involved in the mystery, teach the students how to make a chart or web of characters, keeping track of how they relate to each other. Each student can work individually or in a group, and as characters are introduced or developed, making a chart or web will help to keep their relations with one another straight. This could also give students a chance to play "detective," making a chart or web of clues, suspects, settings, etc., and enable them to make predictions regarding the death of Captain Lockhart.