Rainbow Boys

Rainbow Boys. Alex Sanchez. New York: Simon & Schuster, 2001. 246 pages. $17.00 (Hardcover). ISBN 0-689-84100-0. Grades 10-12. English.

Nelson Glassman is known for his dramatic hair styles, painted fingernails, body jewelry, and for being gay. Kyle Meeks is Nelson’s best friend, who is known for his black baseball cap and being a swimmer, but not his homosexuality. Jason Carrillo is a popular jock with a steady girlfriend, but a secret attraction to boys. One Saturday meeting of a Rainbow Youth club started the beginning of a long journey for these three boys. As all become friends, romantic feelings appear that threaten friendships and social norms. Together these boys encounter homophobia, violence, fear, and even HIV. Alex Sanchez addresses issues faced by teenagers coming out and living in a homophobic world. Tolerance and acceptance are found throughout this book, making it a must read for more than just GLBTQ teens. Additional resources are offered in the back relating to issues and topics in the text. Highly Recommended.

The House on Mango Street

The House on Mango Street. Sandra Cisneros. New York: Vintage Books, 1991. 110 pages. $9.95 (Paperback). ISBN 0-679-73477-5. Grades 9-12. English with some Spanish.

“You just remember to keep writing, Esperanza. You must keep writing. It will keep you free.” Esperanza is only in seventh grade, but she is living a life beyond her years. In order to deal with her family’s new neighborhood and house on Mango Street, growing up, and the world around her Esperanza writes. Award winning poet Sandra Cisneros portrays the inner thoughts, observations and struggles of young Esperanza in a series of vignettes. Readers are privy to Esperanza’s internal struggles with friends, family, abuse, sex, and trying to free herself from the prison she knows as Mango Street. The flowing, poetic voices of the vignettes make the story easy to read and get absorbed in; while the complexity of Esperanza’s world will have readers examining every detail. The House on Mango Street is an excellent depiction of growing up, being different and coming in to one’s own. Highly Recommended.   

The God Box

The God Box. Alex Sanchez. New York: Simon & Schuster, 2007. 278 pages. $16.99 (Hardcover). ISBN 978-1-4169-0899-9. Grades 7-12. English with some Spanish.

“Dear Lord, please take away these feelings, you know which ones.” From the outside ‘Paul’ is a typical high school senior in his conservative Texas town. He is active in his school’s Bible club, makes great grades, and has a serious girlfriend.  On the inside, however, Pablo is not as well collected. He has been combating feelings of attraction for other boys since he hit puberty. Due to the conflict with his religion, Paul has continuously fought these feelings, prayed for their removal, and continued living his ‘normal’ life. When Manuel, an openly homosexual and Christian students transfers to Paul’s school red flags are raised. Manuel uses his faith, charisma, and bravery to change Paul and the town’s way of thinking. Alex Sanchez has produced a must read novel that celebrates being true to yourself. This book addresses common anti-gay attitudes and arguments in an engaging and effective way. Highly Recommended.   

Monster

Monster. Walter Dean Myers. Illus. by Christopher Myers. New York: HarperCollins Publishers, 1999. 281 pages. $15.89 (Hardcover). ISBN 0-06-028078-6. Grades 7-12.

My Thoughts… 

When I reached for this book on the library shelf I recognized its cover. I had read this book before. I also remembered that I liked this book even though I couldn’t remember why. I did remember that there was a trial and a young boy was being tried for a crime that he didn’t commit. Upon rereading this book I know I had thoughts and questions that I didn’t have the first time around. While I did thoroughly enjoy reading this book again, it was for different reasons.

I watch A LOT of Law and Order, so I am pretty familiar with procedures of courtroom trials. I am also familiar with how questions are phrased, what is permissible, how closing statements work, etc. When I read this book the first time I was in middle school and was not as aware of these details. I took everything about the trial in the book at face value as fact. I did not understand what leading the witness meant or why the defense attorneys only had to provide “reasonable doubt.” I also didn’t understand how Steve Harmon could be found guilty since he didn’t actually do anything. Well, I am wiser now, and I am not sure that Steve Harmon should have been found not guilty. Don’t get me wrong, I was still relieved when the verdict of not guilty was delivered because Walter Dean Myers did make him a human and not a monster. Steve didn’t seem to want to get a cut of money or even participate in the crime, and he didn’t give any signal. There is definitely reasonable doubt for his participation in this crime so I think the trial was legit as an outsider looking in, or as a member of the jury. As a reader, however, who is privileged to all of the information and thoughts of Steve, know that he lied on the stand, and that doesn’t sit well with me now. He said he was not in that drugstore when he was and I don’t think that is okay. This lie does not make this a bad book, but I am not sure about the message it sends to readers. I don’t think it is okay to show someone lying under oath.

This book is interesting and great for many different reasons, however, and I don’t want to get caught up in the semantics of the court case. This book deals with peer pressure and wanting to be tough and how that can and will get you in to trouble. It deals with the myth of innocence until proven guilty, especially when you are African American. It also talks about the struggles of race, when the idea of turning against your own comes up. The emphasis on race in the prison (pointing out most prisoners are Latino or Black) seems a bit racist, but if that’s how that prison tends to be then it is more fact. I do think, however, talking about how a person sees themselves, their hobbies and passions, and how they see the world around them is crucial. I love the movie format. I think it allows the reader to take in all the sights and senses. The notes give us a personal view of Harmon, but the movie gives us what the outside world sees. The parts in jail are terrifying, and I think it is impressive that Myers put it so bluntly. I think that is another reason this book is great. It talks to young adults like they are adults. It shows them the ugly in the world and lets them face it. I definitely think this is a great book that can have young people looking at themselves and their decisions.

Code Talker: A Novel about the Navajo Marines of World War Two

Code Talker: A Novel about the Navajo Marines of World War Two. Joseph Bruchac. New York: Dial Books, 2005. 231 pages. $16.99 (Hardcover). ISBN 0-8037-2921-9. Grades 5-9.

Reminds Me Of…

Code Talker: A Novel about the Navajo Marines of World War Two is another historic fiction novel that covers an aspect of history that is often neglected in the classroom. No, I don’t mean World War II itself, since that catastrophe is always taught. I am referring to the Navajo Marines who developed and implemented the only unbreakable code the military has ever used. This book was unique in the sense that it is told from a WWII veteran’s point of view, as he explains his involvement in the war to his grandchildren. Readers learn aspects of Navajo language, about the struggles faced historically (including the Long Walk), Navajo customs, as well as the role these thousands of men played in World War II. In addition to learning about the roles of these people readers get to learn about different technologies and battles of the war itself. As I read this book I was reminded of other titles, however.

The first book Code Talker reminded me of was Mare’s War by Tanita S. Davis. This book features a grandmother also telling her war story with her grandchildren. This story gives the information about and the perspective of an African American woman during World War II. Like the Navajos, these women who risked their lives and left their homes are often omitted from the pages of history textbooks. In this novel Davis exposes readers to some of their tasks and trainings, as well as giving information about the war itself. The narration, time period, and minority aspects are the major similarities, but there was one specific scene in Code Talker that really reminded me of Mare’s War. It was right after Ned Begay returns home after the war and wants to buy a coke. He enters a bar where there is a sign that says “No Indians Served.” Although Ned was in his Marines uniform and just fought for America he was not allowed to get a soda and was physically removed from the building. This reminds me of how Mare and the other African American soldiers were treated after their return to America. There was still segregation and although one war was won, the war for civil rights had not yet began. 

I was also reminded of When My Name Was Keoko by Linda Sue Park. This book takes place in Korea when it was under Japanese rule. It also shows another side of the war. I was specifically reminded about the propaganda supplied by Japan, from brainwashing kids in school to training them to be part of their army. Suicide missions or kamikaze pilots play a significant role in this book, and the mention of them in Code Talker reminded me of that.

Ned, the narrator, also talked about how he and fellow soldiers realized that despite the fighting the Japanese were people too and it was hard to take victory when millions of people were dying. This reminded me to the picture book The Enemy: A Book about Peace by Davide Cali and Sergie Bloch. In this book we are introduced to a nameless soldier in his foxhole fighting an unknown enemy who he thinks is a monster, due to the propaganda he has read. He finally goes to make an attack only to realize that his enemy is another person just like him. Realizing this, he decides that war may not be the answer after all. I think it is an important message to point out and acknowledge the barbarity and cruelty of war, just like these books do. 

Keeping Corner

Keeping Corner. Kashmira Sheth. New York: Hyperion Books for Children, 2007. 282 pages. $15.99 (Hardcover). ISBN 978-07863859-2. Grades 9-12.

My Thoughts…

I initially found Keeping Corner a little more difficult to read due to my unfamiliarity with Indian words and customs. As I read, however, and approached the meaning and tradition that lends its title to this book’s name I found myself getting more and more engrossed in this story. While I did continually refer to the glossary at the back of the book I quickly found my jaw dropped open and my head shaking. I had no idea about the customs and ways of Indian culture. Even now after reading this story I am not sure I know and understand much.

I think this book is incredibly eye opening and educational. Since I knew absolutely nothing about Indian culture prior to reading this book every word and idea I read was knew. I was even incredibly unfamiliar with the way the traditional garments looked so it was difficult to for me to see the story unfold in my head. Thanks to the internet, however, I quickly gained insight to what I was reading. Going back to my aforementioned ignorance…I don’t know if the traditions and customs being questioned in the early 20^th century by Ghandi and the prior 50 years by Narmad (pertaining to women’s equality, education, and widows) have such been updated or amended, so I don’t know if Leela’s experience still goes on today. I am sure that in some societies they do, but I really hope not. I did realize, however, as I shook my head and gasped at the tradition I found appalling that I was inadvertently being racist. This made me feel badly. As embarrassed as I am to write my thought during the first chapters of the book, me sharing this is how I can explain what I learned and felt during after reading this story. I actually said out loud “Thank God I am not Indian because this is ridiculous.” Who am I to pass judgment on another culture whose history and beliefs I know nothing about? I realized that while Leela too hated the traditions that forced her, a 13 year old girl, to be married by age nine and then unfortunately widowed by age 13. I was appalled that she had to shave her head, give up her jewelry, and spend a year inside her house. I was also shocked to see how far the custom spread, all the way to her family having to remove their nose rings as well. I just didn’t understand. Now I am still in the dark regarding the different castes mentioned, political ideologies, even the different gods mentioned, but I do not longer think that there is something wrong with this culture simply because I do not understand.

Rather than not understand I wish to learn. I don’t think I could force myself to read a textbook, but I am sure I can find similar novels to this one that speaks about the struggles of women and teenagers in India today. I would love to read more fiction like this. I feel that this response is one way in that young adults may act after reading this book. I also hope that young adults feel as happy as I did when Leela did get permission to go away to further her education. I think it is important that the struggle existed and the fears were explained and expressed, because it shows that Leela’s story is one of bravery; the same story of bravery that is shown through the parallel political and social movement led by Ghandi. I found myself hating Masi and wanting her to get bitten by one of those deadly snakes just because she was so against progress and I wonder if other readers will feel the same as I do. I did enjoy this book once I got in to it. I think it sheds light on a culture that needs to be represented in literature. It definitely opened my eyes to a world I didn’t know anything about.

Good Enough

Good Enough. Paula Yoo. New York: HarperTeen, 2008. 326 pages. $16.99 (Hardcover). ISBN 978-0-06-079085-1. Grades 9-12.

Potential Reactions…

Before I get in to how I think other readers will react to this funny, incredibly realistic story, I want to tell you how I reacted. From page one I saw myself. I was a band kid who wanted to be the best, I was the perfectionist student who wanted to make perfect grades, and while I didn’t have the pressure of parents pushing HYP, I had two genius, overachieving older siblings’ shoes to fill. I was also gawky and not one of the popular kids. Unfortunately, I was not a prodigy clarinet player, I did not study enough to make a 2300 on my SATs, and I didn’t even try to apply to the Ivy Leagues. Although I was not Patti Yoon, I know exactly how she felt, and I think on some level every young adult reader will.

I think young adults will love this story because they will inevitably see some aspect of their high school struggles in the life of Patti Yoon. Every kid knows what it is like to either: have pushy parents who are breathing down your neck pushing you towards a certain future, or get stuck doing something you are good at just because you are good at it, or feel like you don’t fit in, or not knowing what you what to do with your life, or have a crush, or one of the other dozens of problems Patti Yoon faces in Good Enough. If readers don’t personally have any of these problems they will know someone who does and think of them. Not only with that lead to that reader appreciating the story, but it will lead them to recommend the book to someone else. Patti Yoon also faces racism from her peers and even her peer’s parents. Due to the heavy use of stereotypes today, I am sure other teenagers will know what this feels like as well. I think they will feel for Patti and her Dad and feel a connection to that aspect of the story. I think readers who use racial stereotypes and slurs will feel bad to actually read how their words could potentially be hurting others.

I also think that readers will like and get a kick out of learning about Korean culture, especially since some of its aspects are presented in humorous ways. I am not sure how Korean readers would feel about the teasing about highly competitive parents and church youth groups or the generalizations about Spam and Kimchi, but I don’t think Yoo is being offensive. Since Yoo herself is Korean and while the book is fiction does take examples from her life, I think this comical yet serious approach works. I think readers will laugh and enjoy all the lists about disappointing Korean parents and the recipes.

I hope that readers from this book realize that their happiness is what matters in the end and that they take the right steps toward achieving it. I do think that some readers who are being strongly guided by their parents may be skeptical of Patti’s ability to do what she wants. I do think, however, that this story is encouraging and funny, and will make high school students feel better about the stress they are dealing with.

Looking for Alaska

 

Looking for Alaska. John Green. New York: Dutton Books, 2005. 227 pages. $15.99 (Hardcover). ISBN 0-525-47506-0. Grades 9-12.

My Thoughts…

Looking for Alaska is what would happen if the rich, pensive characters of Donnelly’s Revolution ran in to the dark, twisted goings on of Chbosky’s The Perks of Being a Wallflower and then went to boarding school. Wait, that makes it sound like Looking for Alaska is a rip off and not an awesome book, and that is not the case at all. While I was reminded of other materials while reading this book, I found myself talking more about it with my friends and coworkers and thinking about it more than either of the previously mentioned titles.

One of the main talking points for me from this book was how many great, quotable lines there were. Some of these lines were selected from Pudge’s vast array of last words; others were taken from Hyde’s religion class and Alaska’s rich literary knowledge. While those lines were actually quotes, some of the most memorable items were just exchanged in general conversation between the characters as bits of wisdom or fact. While I know that a book’s ‘quotability’ doesn’t make it great, I think books that make you think on one line for extended periods of time are. “You smoke to enjoy it, I smoke to die.” This is one line came from one of the most emotionally conflicted characters I have encountered, and while it is a simple sentence, it made me think about personal choice, control in situations, suicide, and pain for pleasure and vice versa. I like that this book is thought provoking and full of controversy and confusion. I think it offers young adults a look in to lives that are different than their own and examine them. I think that doing so will open their eyes to what else is out their, make them thankful for the lives they have, encourage them to follow their passions, confuse them, or comfort them. These are not the only possible reactions of course, and depending on the reader, they may focus on completely different aspects of the story. The concept of the Great Perhaps, however, is hard to avoid in this book, and despite the distracting drama and events, readers will stop to think.

Speaking of thinking, while this book is more about living and emotional growth, it does offer tons of intellectual information. Readers are introduced to religious concepts and theories, famous writers, politicians, and pranking. No, seriously though, readers get tidbits of information that are certain to pique their curiosity. I mean, I want to go read The General in his Labyrinth now.

While the specifics of this book are not necessarily going to be relatable to many readers, a lot of the emotional conflicts associated with high school and coming in to your own will be. I think that worrying about crushes and sex and love and grades is a normal high school experience, and that young adults will connect to that. I also think that the emphasis on last words, death, the unknown, and happiness is an important part of this book because readers are going to be leaving high school and moving on with their lives, and starting the journey of becoming who they will be. Yes, I realize that sounds cheesy, but if readers really consider the lives and paths of the students at Culver Creek I think they will stop and look at themselves. This book may just be an eye opener that helps them figure out where and what their Great Perhaps will be.

I loved this book and can’t believe it was Green’s first novel!

Mare’s War

Mare’s War.Tanita S. Davis. New York: Alfred A. Knopf, 2009. 345 pages. $16.99 (Hardcover). ISBN 978-0-375-8715-0. Grades 7-12.

My Thoughts…

As I have already mentioned numerous times in this blog, I love historical fiction. I love the way you can find yourself in history, learning about people and places that you knew nothing about without necessarily realizing it. As I read Mare’s War I was reminded of other historical fiction titles, especially Revolution by Jennifer Donnelly, since both of these novels mix present day life with stories from the past. This technique not only engages readers in a time period they know, but it makes them feel like they are being told a story within a story. In the case of Revolution, Andi gets to go back in time to learn about the past, but in Mare’s War readers get to hear Mare tell the story of her WWII experience. I definitely see why this book was a Coretta Scott King Award Honoree, and I am now also appalled that Richland County Public Library didn’t already have several copies.

I don’t think there is anything negative I can say about this book. It is well written, engaging, authentic, interesting and educational. I think the characters in the story (both Mare’s story and the greater novel) are fantastically written. I could definitely get the teen angst from Tali and Octavia’s impatience and nerves. I felt like I was in the car with them on their road trip. I loved how Mare’s life and experiences not only made for a great story and bonding experience between her granddaughters, but also linked back to why their father is the way he is. I think there are different story lines that come together to explain why current day life is the way it is. I think that showing the evolution of Mare is a way of tracing history and also teaching readers that you can never really know why people are they way they are until you hear their story. I think the organization of the book, now and then chapters, worked really well. Not only were the clearly marked periods easy to follow, but they were spaced out in a way that it felt like we were really being told the story. I like that we were never too overwhelmed with Mare’s story and I liked that each break reminded us of the road trip. I also think the breaks with postcards and what not were good too, since they give readers time to think about the story.

I don’t think Mare’s War is a great book just because it is well written, however. I think the content itself is incredibly important and enlightening. Prior to this summer I had never heard of Claudette Colvin, who as I now know was the first individual to get arrested in Montgomery as a part of the bus boycott. We always hear about Rosa Parks, but the truth is, there was someone before her. Mare’s War touches on this, as well as other important parts of African American history that are not often taught. I, like Octavia and Tali, didn’t know there was a large group of African American women in World War II training and touring or that there were African American truck drivers. Although this information may not be taught because it doesn’t seem like it is super important, it is! These individuals were someone’s relatives, their ancestors. It is only fair that their huge contribution be highlighted.

I really enjoyed this book and think a lot of young adults will too. I do think female readers may enjoy this title more, due to the very strong female characters.

The First Part Last

The First Part Last. Angela Johnson. New York: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, 2003. 132 pages. $15.95 (Hardcover). ISBN 0-689-84922-2. Grades 8-12.

My Thoughts…

This is a book about love, about growing up, about loss, about responsibility, and about life in general; and it is a much needed title in library collections. In South Carolina there is an astonishingly high rate of teenage pregnancy. I think this book would be a great outlet, eye opener, or comfort to those in this situation. I think this book in particular is especially great because 1) it features a father raising a child which not necessarily common in literature. 2) It talks about how people say pregnancy is so easy to prevent and won’t happen, yet it does. I think seeing someone say those words and still have an accident is powerful. 3)It is a positive example of teenage parenthood. Not only does Bobby step up to be a father, but his parents make him be responsible and not take care of everything. I love that Bobby stays in school. I think it is important it really talks about the lack of sleep, the diapers, the feedings, and the challenges that go along with being pregnant. I think it is important that adoption is presented as an option so readers of this book get thinking about that too.

Nia practically dying is a whole other twist. This expression of loss is tragic, and while I don’t know if Johnson did it on purpose not having Nia in the picture for whatever reason is a reality teenage parents need to face. It is not guaranteed that the other parent will be around and in the picture, so I think having to see Bobby do it alone and how hard it is is a good message. I definitely think this book sends positive messages to teens of all races. I definitely think it does a better job of teaching about teen pregnancy that The Secret Life of the American Teenager, the ABC Family show I couldn’t help thinking about as I read. Rather than have a sixteen year old girl with a supportive family and money have and raise a child with the support of tons of people, this book is realistic. I think it is great that there is some disappointment and shock shown from parents and friends, as there would be in real life. I found this book to be relatable, realistic and great. This is a topic that needs to be discussed.  

The Hunger Games

The Hunger Games. Suzanne Collins. New York: Scholastic Press, 2008. 374 pages. $17.99 (Hardcover). ISBN 978-0-439-02348-1.

My Thoughts…

OH MY GOODNESS!!! I LOVE LOVE LOVE this book! I had only heard positive things about The Hunger Games, and it was no surprise to me when I found it on this summer’s reading list. I first heard of this book at a live class session for Programming. The title came up in relation to the discussion group names, one of which was Katniss Everdeen. I had never heard of this character, but one of the other attendees said she was sad she wasn’t in that group because Katniss was AMAZING. At the onsite for this same class we had to present programs we designed for a library. One student’s focused on The Hunger Games. I got the impression that this was an awesome, yet potentially terrifying book. Since then I have heard lots of talk about the upcoming movie and even heard an NPR interview saying that The Hunger Games is going to be the next Harry Potter. I have heard, however, that the following books in the series are not as great as the first, but I will be the judge of that…just as soon as I finish the rest of my assigned readings.

Anyway, I was thrilled with this book and didn’t want to put it down. The setting alone, a kind of post apocalyptic American society, is intriguing, and I love how the districts were developed and unique.  I found it especially interesting how it seemed like the Capitol was thousands of years ahead in technology even to our current day life while the districts seemed to be living in a pre revolutionary time (with the exception of tvs). The characters were phenomenal, and I swear they were like my friends as the books when on. Yes, I cried when Rue died, and yes I cried when they changed the rules about victors…twice. The suspense and adventure was amazing! I can’t even go in to how engaged and enthralled with the story I was. Somehow even gathering roots and sleeping were fascinating adventures. As a girly girl I loved that there was a love story amidst all the barbarianism, but I was left heartbroken not knowing how it is going to end up.

This book is definitely geared toward an older or at least more mature audience (high school), but I still want to recommend it to EVERY person I see! I think this is a book like Harry Potter that will entice both boys and girls alike. Katniss is an amazing character, as is Peeta, and they are just as likeable as Harry, Hermione and Ron. When I learned what the Hunger Games actually was I was instantly reminded of the story “The Most Dangerous Game,” which I read as a freshman in high school. I would bet that Collins got some inspiration there. I know this long rant is not particularly critical, but I am still so excited about reading it that I don’t know what to say! I think it could be scary for some readers, but that is why is will be cautious in recommending it. I also think that the movie could be terrifying, but you best believe I will be there to see it! Definitely my favorite book of the summer!

Revolution

Revolution. Jennifer Donnelly. New York, Delacorte Press, 2010. 484 pages. $18.99 (Hardcover). ISBN 978-0385737630. Grades 9-12.

My Thoughts...

Historical fiction is a genre that I have learned to love, so when I realized that Revolution fell in to this category I was pretty excited. I got in to the characters and dark mood of Andi from the very beginning. I loved that we were introduced to her mental instability and only given hints of to why she feels responsible for her brother’s death. I thought it was bold to have a character so dependent on her antidepressants. Although being on meds is not uncommon, popping them like M&Ms and having hallucinations at 17 is not typical in young adult literature. I loved that music and creativity were important elements in this book, because these outlets tend to be relatable to young adults. Readers may not literally bleed for their musical gift, but every teen knows what it is to love and get lost in some kind of music, even if it is only in private. I also think it is important that music, which isn’t necessarily a wise and guaranteed career path shows an area of disagreement in Andi’s life. The struggle between following one’s personal, creative dream often outweighs and causes tension between young adults and their parents. I think Andi’s character, though a little extreme, is relatable and that young adults will find her as interesting and compelling as I did.

In addition to having a strong character that makes the story interesting and relatable, Donnelly plays with Dante, organization, history, and parallel/intersecting plots to propel the story and keep readers on their toes. I think using quotes from Dante and the section headings of Hell, Purgatory, and Paradise were perfect. They give a summary of the tone and mood of the section prior to it as well as chart Andi’s physical and mental state. I wonder if Donnelly decided to organize her book this way first, or if she realized this would be perfect after she had already written it. I do think it is important that she did divide the book, since it is so long. I think the divisions offer newish stories that readers can read a chunk at a time.

I love Paris (modern day) and was thrilled when I realized that the majority of the book would take place there. I also loved learning about the French Revolution in history class, so I was stoked to see that this was the revolution the title referred to. I did not learn about the French Revolution until college, but I don’t think any preexisting knowledge of the French Revolution is necessary. If anything, I think this book made me want to go back and learn more. I know that this is historical fiction, but I love any ideas of rogues and conspiracy. I definitely think Alex’s diary and her life will capture and amaze readers. I think the way her story happens to fall in to Andi’s hands and then cross in to her real life with Louis-Charles’ heart is amazing. I did find it a little odd, and maybe too weird that she got placed back in the 18^th century and crossed paths with Amandé, but I do like how it tied up lose ends for her mentally.

I loved this book, and while I thought it could have ended a little sooner, I think that all of the stories work together really well. I think this book will pique curiosity about history while still relate to the struggles of today.   

Nick & Norah's Infinite Playlist

Nick & Norah's Infinite Playlist. Rachel Cohn and David Levithan. New York: Alfred A. Knopf, 2006. 184 pages. $16.95 (Hardcover). ISBN 0-375-83531-8. Grades 9-12.

My Thoughts...

I adored Nick and Norah's Infinite Playist the movie when I saw it in theatres in 2008, and although I saw the note in the opening credits regarding its book inspiration, I never thought to read the novel. I am so glad I have now. I normally object to seeing a movie prior to reading a book if I know it is in existence because I find that the movie usually ruins the book. In this case, however, I do not think that was the case. As I read Nick and Norah I did find myself seeing clips of the movie in my head, especially actor's faces. I was not, however, distracted by this prior knowledge because while it was familiar it was not too fresh on my mind. I did waste about fifteen minutes trying to recall a similar situation in another book, only to find out upon rewatching the movie what I was thinking about was from the film version. I will definitely and already have recommended the book and movie together to several people because I think that they complement eachother well.

The Book: This book is co-written and told from two different points of view. Chapters alternate between the male lead (Nick) and the female lead (Norah). Each chapter reveals their individual thoughts, internal/external conflicts, and how they are feeling during each situation. Therefore there is not a narrator telling us what is going on and propelling the plot. Rather we are seeing it and experiencing the wild night in and through the memories and reflections of the characters. I loved how each chapter changed tones and though in one person's point of view included dialog. There were so many great quotes, and the emotion and way the two characters criticize their actions and selves is so true to how we think. It was a great read and I didn't want to put it down until I knew exactly how it was going to wrap up. I did find myself waiting for some events from the film to take place, but when they didn't I wasn't disappointed. Instead I was glad to be able to see why they didn't take place. It turns out there is one big relationship/characteristic different between two characters in the book and film. While it is very noticable, the film and the book still portray the same message and meaning in the end.

The Movie: I think the movie was a great interpretation of the book! I could pick out exact dialog from the text, I could see how the director/writer adapted the internal dialog of the chapters in to a fast moving plot, and I found that random details from the movie that didn't make sense really came from the text. At the same time I noticed there were some humor and gross out comedy added to the film to either make viewers laugh or keep them engaged. I did think that I would have casted the film differently, however, or at least done the costumes differently because Cohn and Levithan's descriptions were pretty exact. I think the film did a fantastic job of taking the experiences from the page and out of the minds of the narrators and turning it in to an action packed night. A lot of the book was internal and it would have been hard to convey every emotion and every scenario.

I think this book and movie, either together or separately would appeal to a wide variety of readers. There is the emphasis on music; playing, recording, mixing, and then just loving and listening to it. There is the love story. There are the struggles of fitting in, getting dumped, choosing the right path for the future, etc. Anyway, this was a fantastic reading and watching experience.

Will Grayson, Will Grayson

Will Grayson, Will Grayson. John Green and David Levithan. New York: Dutton Books, 2010. $17.99 (Hardcover). ISBN 978-0-525-42158-0. Grades 9-12.

Reminds me of...

This was a hilarious, yet emotional book that shows how sometimes the paths of two unsuspecting people can cross in such a way that their lives are changed forever. While homosexuality is at the forefront of this novel, friendship, loyalty, and being true to yourself are themes that will make Will Grayson, Will Grayson relatable and appealing to any reader. While reading this book I was reminded of other titles that I have read recently. These titles too feature LGBTQ characters, their struggles, successes, friends, and experiences, but also appeal to readers due to the common problems faced by all today’s young adults. My Most Excellent Year: A Novel of Love, Mary Poppins, and Fenway Park by Steven Kluger, for example, has three main characters similar to Jane, Tiny, and Will. One of these characters is gay and comes out of the closet with little surprise to his friends. This character, Augie, like tiny loves musical theatre and this topic also plays an important role in the self discovery of the book’s characters. The characters of Jane and Will are also present in Kluger’s novel in the form of TC Keller and Ale Perez. These two friends have their own romantic relationship, but also serve as the sounding board and support system to their other bestie. My Most Excellent Year is also told from different points of view, alternating chapters. This style works well when there are so many different facets of the story and allows readers to get to know the ins and outs of each character. I was also reminded of Alex Sanchez’sRainbow High series. This story also follows a group of friends and how their lives intersect due to the challenges of being gay. Friendship is incredibly important in these stories as well, and while there is not an over the top performance in these stories, they do depict the challenges of high school. Alternating view points is also utilized in this series. I also noticed how instant messaging and e-mail is always the preferred method of communication in these stories. I don't know if it is because they are easy to keep hidden or what, but it is a trend I've noticed. The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky made an appearance in my thoughts as well when I was reading this book. Perks is a much darker, intense story than Will Grayson, but the group of friends in the story encounter similar problems and experiences. I think that a reader who enjoys one story may enjoy the other. 

The 10 p.m. Question

The 10 p.m. Question. Kate De Goldi. Somerville: Candlewick Press, 2008. 245 pages. $15.99 (Hardcover). ISBN 978-0-7636-4939-5. Grades 6-8.

My Thoughts…

I haven’t yet decided if I liked The 10 p.m. Question. I guess I will just tell you my thoughts and perhaps when I am done thinking about it I will have made a conclusion. This book was well written for many reasons: De Goldi takes readers to New Zealand, or at least the town where Frankie lives. We get landmarks, buildings, nature, daily routes to places, weather, etc. I felt like I was walking to school with Gigs and Frankie every morning because she took us with them every step of the way. There weren’t any scenes that I couldn’t see in my mind because the description was there. I also think the character development is remarkable and I think readers will really get to know Frankie, Ma, Louie, Gigs, the Aunties, Sydney, etc. The variety of characters is also incredibly important, and I think that every reader will be drawn to one character or another and see a bit of themselves in them. I see one of my best friends in Frankie, for example, all the way down to the incessant worrying and hypochondria. Speaking of hypochondria and worrying…how in the world does this 12 year old kid have such a vast knowledge of so many things and a HUGE vocabulary? I mean too, how are these 12 year olds so involved in extra curricular activities? I guess the school systems in Europe are just that different and kids want to learn rather than play video games all the time. I did catch myself saying that some of Frankie’s thoughts are unlikely for someone his age, but then again, one of the points is that he has been force to grow up and deal with some dismal realities early on. Some of these realities I find may be less relatable that others, but I think their severity and the conflicts and turmoil they cause will still engage young adults. I loved the different relationships that develop in this book and think young adults will as well. I especially love how Frankie’s family works together even though there is something just a little broken about them. I had been wondering why this book was assigned to me, but I think one reason is because it offers a new twist on growing up and the coming of age story. I think the male lead as well as the mix of internal and external struggles also reflects the complicated time that is middle school. I also think it is neat that this book does take place in another country, so we get to see similarities across cultures in terms of vocabulary, habits, etc. I guess, my conclusion is that it is a good book, but it took me a while to get in to it and I never felt truly engaged. I do think the target audience will enjoy it, however, and I know I could recommend it to a variety of different audiences based on the mix of topics and themes present.

American Born Chinese

American Born Chinese. Gene Luen Yang. New York: First Second Books, 2006. 234 pages. $17.95 (Paperback). ISBN 978-1-59643-152-2. Grades 8-12.

My Thoughts...

My initial set of thoughts about American Born Chinese included, “what?!,” “isn’t this offensive,” and “did that really just happen?” I was excited about this book from the beginning because it came highly recommended and praised and because I have had few encounters with graphic novels. I loved the way that the story read, and I loved that there were three seemingly separate stories that did end up connecting. Not to mention that the illustrations were fantastic!  I was astonished, however, by the garish accent and teasing of the cousin Chin-Kee character. I wondered if Asian American teens would find this offensive or funny. I just kind of thought the yellow skin, incredibly slanted eyes, and accent were incredibly stereotypically and tacky. Granted, I did laugh, but I felt like I shouldn’t have been. I also thought it was amusing that Chin-Kee sang She Bangs like William Hung did on American Idol. I was also surprised to see such stereotypes as cat in Chin-Kee’s lunch and the whole “me Chinese, me play joke, me go pee pee in his Coke.” I was so engrossed in the stories themselves and the seemingly racists aspects to notice the important theme in the book until after I started reading the Zia chapter.

One of the important themes (that was quite obvious) was being true to yourself, no matter what other people think. This is apparent with the Monkey King and Jin Wang/Danny. I liked that this ‘moral’ existed at the end of this funny and engaging book. This book, however, places the human characters in modern times where there is still massive amounts of racism, which I was sad to see, especially after reading about all the horrendous treatment Asians experienced when they first arrived in America and for years after. The Zia article also emphasized that there is little taught or acknowledged about Asian American history in textbooks or historical accounts. I think that a lot of Asian Americans feel (like her father did) marginalized and underappreciated. Jin Wang was ashamed of being different and longed to transform in to something else…becoming Danny. I think if he knew the struggles his ancestors went through he would either feel horrible for complaining so much. That being said he could also be very angry that the racism still exists but then champion his culture and tell everyone how crucial Chinese were in the development of this country despite to racism and unfairness they faced. Speaking of this chapter, I learned more about the history of Asians in the United States in its 20 or so pages than I had in my entire life. This is the kind of information that should be taught in schools and I don’t know why it isn’t. It is unfortunate, however, that most of the facts are appalling. Past presidents and social leaders should be embarrassed and ashamed of the way Asians were treated and used, but at the same time we cannot pretend these things didn’t happen.  I was glad to read about the progress made after the 60s for Asian American studies, career advancement, etc, but at the same time I couldn’t help thinking there are still stereotypes and that people still treat the vast subsets of Asian Americans differently.

Back to the book…I think the fable aspect of strength and trying to change your stars or break out of life and body that you didn’t get to choose is relatable to young adults of any gender or social status. I think that Asian Americans, however, will be able to relate to the way that the characters are treated and the history behind the legend of the Monkey King. I think that this novel does a great job of discussing the ‘American Dream’ and how it can be a nightmare and/or a let down depending on where you stand. American Born Chinese was a great read, funny and thought provoking, and I would love to hear what teens had to say about it!

Luna

Luna: A Novel. Julie Anne Peters. New York: Little, Brown and Company, 2004. 248 pages. $16.95(Hardcover). ISBN 0-316-73369-5. Grades 8-12.

Potential Reactions…

This novel would have never been given to me in school or recommended by any of my media specialists, which is not to say, however, that it should not have been. Students in rural towns in the Bible belt may not have ever heard of let alone personally known a transgendered individual, and if they had they probably think it is an abomination. I think that if these young adults picked up this book they would be shocked, confused, or disgusted because it does indeed expose and discuss the struggles of transsexuals. I think that if put in the wrong hands this book would be ridiculed and condemns just because it does talk about something that parts of society considers wrong or unnatural. Then again, this same group of teens could be touched and inspired and have their eyes open to how hard it is for transsexuals to be themselves and live in a society that is constantly putting them down. I also think this book could give strength to any transsexuals that are struggling with playing a role day in and day out like Liam. I hope Luna’s story can encourage transgendered teens to free themselves and become who they are. I think transgendered teens will be able to relate to Liam/Luna. I do think, however, the fact that Liam does have enough money to up and relocate will aggravate readers because that is not the real world. I think readers would appreciate how Liam dealt with his family and classmates in a away that they too could follow. I think this book is also great for siblings, friends, and family members of transsexuals. I think Regan’s story will appeal to teens in similar situations and that they can learn something from her mistakes and experiences. The same can be said for friends and Aly’s reaction. This book isn’t boring, that’s for sure, and it does have a story for everyone and anyone who is or who knows a transsexual

My Most Excellent Year: A Novel of Love, Mary Poppins & Fenway Park

My Most Excellent Year: A Novel of Love, Mary Poppins & Fenway Park. Steve Kluger. New York: Dial Books, 2008. 403 pages. $16.99 (Hardcover). ISBN 978-0-8037-3227-8. Grades 8-12.

Love is a best friend turned brother, the Boston Red Sox, Broadway, the new girl in class, an imaginary nanny or fighting for a cause you believe in. Love is all of these things and a million more to the characters in Steve Kluger’s debut novel for young adults. Set in Boston, My Most Excellent Year: A Novel of Love, Mary Poppins & Fenway Park explores what it is like growing up and coming in to your own with the assistance of friends and family. Three unlikely friends: jock, funny guy, and die hard Red Sox fan Anthony "T.C." Keller; flamboyant, musical obsessed, diva Augie Hwong; and know it all, theatre phenom and diplomat’s daughter Alejandra "Ale" Perez recount their ninth grade year and how it made them who they are. Kluger places readers in each character’s mind as he alternates point of view with each chapter, giving each experience a unique flavor. Style and format are also flawlessly executed with his seamless inclusion of letters, e-mails, memos and chat sessions throughout the narratives. This book is not only entertaining, but relatable and relevant to the experiences of today’s teens. Questions of sexuality and civil rights along with dealing with loss, responsibility and love make this a well rounded, informative book for young adults. Highly Recommended  

The Perks of Being a Wallflower

The Perks of Being a Wallflower. Stephen Chbosky. Recorded Books, 2005. 6 discs/6.5 hours. $19.99 (Audiobook-CD) Grades 9-12.  

It is often easier to watch life happen and not live it, especially when you feel out of place. Fifteen-year-old Charlie never had many friends, and the one he did have left the world without him. Charlie spends his days being observant, listening, and questioning his surroundings until he meets upperclassmen Patrick and Sam. He finds acceptance in this group of liberal and passionate misfits and begins to feel at home. Running with an older crowd forces him to grow up quickly, however, and he is confronted with repressed feelings and harsh reality.  Chbosky poignantly portrays the challenges of high school, being different, and a variety of personal battles in an honest, open way that readers can relate to. The personal, conversational style creates a bond that allows the audience to feel the character’s emotion and narrator Johnny Heller brings Charlie’s thoughts to life in an entrancing way. Abuse, sex, drugs, suicide, homosexuality, rock and role and life are all expressed and experienced in a way that teens will understand and appreciate despite the controversy. The Perks of Being a Wallflower is a frank and candid look at growing up with baggage and learning to lay it down and live. A great read or listen for teens. Highly Recommended  

 My Thoughts…

I remember my roommate going on about wanting to read The Perks of Being a Wallflower and I didn’t respect her taste in literature so I brushed it off. When she accidentally ordered the audio book she gave it to me, since I am the one who takes road trips. Well, I am so glad she did, because I couldn’t wait to get in the car and find out what was going to happen next in this interesting, dark and engaging look from the outside. While learning about this title I ran across articles debating its appropriateness in classrooms and curriculum. While I see why parents’ jaws would drop while reading this book (mine did a few times), it should not be pulled from the shelves because the issues discussed, drugs, sex, homosexuality, abuse, and suicide are the sad and true facts of life. Unfortunately teenagers get caught up in issues like this and often have no where to turn or how to respond. I think this is a great book for strong readers to undertake, however, because some of the crucial moments would soar right over the heads of some students. In that regard I could see how this book could cause more harm than good.  

I couldn’t help comparing Charlie’s high school experience with my own while reading, and I think the stark contrast from the story and my life made me appreciate the story even more. I was as straight laced as they come in high school: no smoking, no drinking, no sex, no this that and the other. Granted, this could have been because I lived in a small town where everyone knew everyone else and what they drove. I know, however, that some of my friends had this insane, mixed up time, and I wondered if their experiences were similar with Charlie’s. My guess is no, due to the other circumstances in Charlie’s life, but that made me think further…Charlie internalized his abuse to the point where he almost forgot it happened but lived differently anyway. I wonder how many other teenagers are affected by something similar. I fear that in the ‘real world’ these kids won’t find friends like Sam and Patrick to help them. Since I was listening to this book on CD at intervals I feel like I missed some of the key details that I would have paid more attention to had I held the book in my hand. For example, I am a little confused to what Aunt Helen did exactly, I know there was some sort of abuse, but I can’t pinpoint what happened. Since the book fell on 6 different CDs there is no way I can find the right track to remind myself, and even if I had the book finding that same part would be difficult.

Another key thought that I had while listening and while reflecting on this book is how Charlie bonded with the people three years older than him. He never really fit in with his own classmates, except Michael, who didn’t make it. This idea seemed questionable to me, since in high school you rarely see seniors befriending freshmen, but it also seemed familiar to me. I have always bonded with people older than me. My best friends from childhood were 5 and 7 year older, and now my boyfriend/best friend is 11 years older than me. I get along better with my older coworkers than I do those my age as well. I don’t think I am especially mature or have the need to converse with those more life experience or intelligence, it just seems that it works out better that way. When I stop to think about it, however, I realize I grew up too fast like Charlie, but in a completely different way. I really enjoyed this book because it spoke to me personally without even trying and it opened my eyes to what I haven’t seen before. I have a hunch that I am not the only person who would react this way too.

Potential Reaction…

Due to the controversial topics in this book (sex, drugs, abuse, homosexuality, etc.) as well as the hype surrounding it, I think that teens would be interested in reading the book. I think that once they delve in they will forget about the superficial thrill and excitement of these things and become part of the story. Of course, this may only be true of stronger, more observant, or more mature readers. I do think some young adults would gloss over the coming of age, emotional turmoil and overall  story and just focus on the ‘drama’ of break ups, highs, and hook-ups. I think this would be more likely to occur if the book as was assigned, however, because I think if students were recommended this book or found it on their own they would want ‘to get’ the story. I also wonder if readers without a personal connection to any of the themes in the story or those who may be on the younger end of the spectrum may be disillusioned or blind sided by the experiences of Charlie and his friends. For example, I would have never known that things like this went on if I was homeschooled or if I came from a much more rural town. I think while these readers may be shocked or confused, I think it would open their eyes to what does go on outside their walls.

I think other readers will be able to relate to Charlie or some of the other characters and find comfort or a friend in this book. I think the text not only shows teens dealing with some difficult issues, but it also offers hope of them coping and reaching a better place. I loved how it wasn’t all rainbows and butterflies crap too, and that every thing worked out, because it isn’t like that in the real world, and I think readers will appreciate the honesty of that. I don’t think teens who have ‘been there’ would appreciate reading something sugar coated and I think Chbosky does a good job of avoiding this. I would hope or wonder if readers who may have been abused would reach out for help after reading this. I don’t think all readers, especially if they are too young, will understand this book at all, and may just not like it. There are subtle points and plot twists that may not get picked up on and alter the message of the story completely. I think that most negative reactions could be avoided if the reader is of the right age and approaches this book with a positive attitude.  

 Reminds Me Of…

I wish I knew of more books like this when I was a teenager, or even now for that matter. While I know they exist (since I was curious and started poking around) I haven’t had the pleasure of reading any of them. I am certain that I will run in to similarly themed books, however, over the course of this independent study.

I have read books that deal with some of the many topics explored in this title, however, and would recommend those to readers interested in that specific aspect of the book. For example, I read and loved The God Box and then Rainbow Boys by Alex Sanchez. These titles feature high school teens struggling with accepting themselves and their diversities, primarily their homosexuality. Abuse (physical and emotional) as well as struggling with internal conflicts are also found in these books, and like Charlie found comfort in reading and music, characters in these titles find other outlets. When I was a young adult I also read the David Pelzer series starting with A Child Called It, The Lost Boy and finally A Man Named Dave. I would not classify these books as young adult materials, that is for sure, but the struggles of growing up and dealing with abuse were in the back of my mind. I wonder, however, is some teenagers would be ready to read such heavy titles if they have been in a similar situation. I was also reminded of Marcelo in the Read World by Francisco Stork as I listened to this book. In this title the main character observes the world and lives differently due to a mild form of autism. While Charlie is not autistic, Marcelo and Charlie both experience life and see the world in different ways, and they both are introduced to aspects of life in nontraditional ways. I think if readers enjoyed watching the mental and emotional growth and experiences of Charlie, they too would enjoy watching Marcelo begin to experience life.