Walters, Eric. Juice. Orca Books, 2005. ISBN 9781551433516.
Plot Summary
Moose is the star of the football team. When Coach Reeves retires he is replaced by Coach Barnes and his assistant, Tony. They arrive with a tough new training program and soon it become clear they will do anything to get the team to win. This includes mixing drinks that are laced with anabolic steroids. Moose and his teammates improve their performances but it comes at a cost. When Coach Reeves' secret is revealed, Moose and his teammates much decide what is wrong and what is right and how far they are willing to go to be the best.
Critical Evaluation
Juice is a story about the high school sports and steroid use. The book is written with a simple plot and straightforward approach which makes it an easy read especially for teen boys who are reluctant readers. They will be drawn in by the sports theme and competitive action. Moose is the popular player who all the other boys look up to. He is a character that can be found in any school in America which makes him easy to relate to. Juice is not the most complicated story as far as plot and character development so keep in mind that it would make a great addition to any collection trying to include books for the reluctant reader.
Reader's Annotation
After a new football coach arrives at their school, the football team struggles with using steroids to compete.
About the Author
Eric Walters was born in Toronto in 1957. In his many roles as parent, teacher, social worker, youth sports coach and writer he is in constant contact with children and young adults. He draws from these experiences and feels that this helps him to capture the realistic interaction between young people - the conflicts, tensions, stresses and interests that make up their lives. Walter's novels have won more than 80 awards including eleven separate children's choice awards. He is the only three time winner of both the Ontario Library Association Silver Birch and Red Maple Awards - in which over 125,000 students participate and vote for the winners.
Genre/Subgenre
Contemporary Life/ Sports
Curriculum Ties
Health Education
Booktalking Ideas
1) How far would you go in order to win a game?
2) Is being part of team more important than doing the right thing?
3) If you knew a trusted adult was doing something illegal would you tell someone?
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 13+
Reluctant readers
Challenge Issues
Steroid use
Challenge defense ideas
-Become familiar with the book and its content.
-Refer to the collection development policy of the library, see http://sfpl.org/pdf/about/policies/collection-development-plan.pdf
-Refer to reviews from Booklist, School Library Journal, and Publisher’s Weekly available for viewing on amazon.com http://www.amazon.com/Juice-Orca-Soundings-Eric-Walters/dp/1551433516
-Try to get reviews of the book from teens who have read it.
Why Included in Titles Selected
Reluctant readers; books for teenage boys
Sunday, December 5, 2010
49. Eat Fresh Food: Awesome Recipes for Teen Chefs by Rozanne Gold
Gold, Rozanne. Eat fresh food: Awesome Recipes for Teen Chefs. Bloomsbury Children's Books, 2009. ISBN 9781599902821
Summary
Rozanne Gold's book is a healthy guide to cooking delicious food using fresh ingredients.
Chapters include:
1) Bread, Butter & Breakfast
2) Bowls: Soups & Pasta
3) Sandwiches, Burgers & Pizza
4) Salads, Big & Small
5) Dinner Specials with Vegetables
6) Side Dishes
7) Desserts & Drinks
Gold also includes a list of menus for special occasions such as Valentine's Day, Mother's Day, and Father's Day.
Critical Evaluation
This book is full of wonderful recipes that are easy for teens to create. Gold discusses nutrition, information about organic food, equipment, and safety. Her recipes are created with the aspiring teen chef in mind although adults will likely find them fun also. Highlights include a carrot-ginger-tomato soup and pasta primavera with jade zucchini sauce. This is a useful book to include in public and school libraries especially schools with health education and/or home economics classes.
Reader's Annotation
Learn to cook fun and healthy recipes using fresh ingredients with recipes by award-winning chef, Rozanne Gold.
About the Author
Rozanne Gold, renowned chef, author and international food and restaurant consultant, began her career at age 23 as first chef to New York Mayor Ed Koch. Considered one of the most prominent women in the food world, she is a four-time winner of the prestigious James Beard Award and winner of the IACP/Julia Child Cookbook Award.
The author of 11 acclaimed cookbooks, Ms. Gold has been the entertaining columnist for Bon Appetit magazine. She has written and produced stories for The New York Times (her work can be found on the Op-Ed page, the Dining Section, and Sunday Magazine), and has written for Oprah, Gourmet, Cooking Light, More, FoodArts, Modern Maturity and The Montessori Magazine.
Genre
Contemporary Nonfiction
Curriculum Ties
Home economics
Health
Booktalking Ideas
1) How important is it to learn healthy eating habits at an early age?
2) Can you think of ways to incorporate these healthy meals into everyday family meals?
3) Would you consider a career as a chef after trying out these recipes?
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 13+
Challenge Issues
None
Why Included in Titles Selected
Healthy eating alternatives for teenagers.
Summary
Rozanne Gold's book is a healthy guide to cooking delicious food using fresh ingredients.
Chapters include:
1) Bread, Butter & Breakfast
2) Bowls: Soups & Pasta
3) Sandwiches, Burgers & Pizza
4) Salads, Big & Small
5) Dinner Specials with Vegetables
6) Side Dishes
7) Desserts & Drinks
Gold also includes a list of menus for special occasions such as Valentine's Day, Mother's Day, and Father's Day.
Critical Evaluation
This book is full of wonderful recipes that are easy for teens to create. Gold discusses nutrition, information about organic food, equipment, and safety. Her recipes are created with the aspiring teen chef in mind although adults will likely find them fun also. Highlights include a carrot-ginger-tomato soup and pasta primavera with jade zucchini sauce. This is a useful book to include in public and school libraries especially schools with health education and/or home economics classes.
Reader's Annotation
Learn to cook fun and healthy recipes using fresh ingredients with recipes by award-winning chef, Rozanne Gold.
About the Author
Rozanne Gold, renowned chef, author and international food and restaurant consultant, began her career at age 23 as first chef to New York Mayor Ed Koch. Considered one of the most prominent women in the food world, she is a four-time winner of the prestigious James Beard Award and winner of the IACP/Julia Child Cookbook Award.
The author of 11 acclaimed cookbooks, Ms. Gold has been the entertaining columnist for Bon Appetit magazine. She has written and produced stories for The New York Times (her work can be found on the Op-Ed page, the Dining Section, and Sunday Magazine), and has written for Oprah, Gourmet, Cooking Light, More, FoodArts, Modern Maturity and The Montessori Magazine.
Genre
Contemporary Nonfiction
Curriculum Ties
Home economics
Health
Booktalking Ideas
1) How important is it to learn healthy eating habits at an early age?
2) Can you think of ways to incorporate these healthy meals into everyday family meals?
3) Would you consider a career as a chef after trying out these recipes?
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 13+
Challenge Issues
None
Why Included in Titles Selected
Healthy eating alternatives for teenagers.
48. Along for the Ride: A Novel by Sarah Dessen
Dessen, Sarah. Along for the Ride: A Novel. Viking, 2009. ISBN 9780670011940.
Plot Summary
Auden is a talented and intellectually gifted girl, but somewhat of a loner. Her parents are divorced and she finds herself struggling especially with insomnia. Her mother is overbearing and judgemental. Auden decides to accept her stepmother, Heidi's, invitation to stay with her, her father, and baby half-sister, Thisbe, in the town of Colby. The summer at her father's beach house isn't as calm as Auden thinks it will be. Heidi is stressed out over her baby and Auden's father is too busy writing a novel to pay attention to his family. Frustrated, Auden wanders onto a beach frequented by other teens. There she meets a boy named Jake and they surprisingly end up kissing. Soon the small town kids are confronting her about the kiss. Auden already feels like an outsider and this makes everything even worse until she meets another outsider named Eli. Eli is also an insomniac. They end up hanging out together and helping each other deal with their pasts and look forward to their futures.
Critical Evaluation
The book is a truthful portrayal of young Auden's journey to find a place to belong and in the process learn to love. Parent's may be concerned about the underage drinking in the book, but in reality, teenagers drink and the book neither supports it nor condemns it. Fans of other Sarah Dessen novels like, Lock and Key and Just Listen, will enjoy Along for the Ride.
Reader's Annotation
Auden goes to live her father and stepmother the summer before college. She has many "first" experiences and learns to deal with her dysfunctional family.
About the Author
Sarah Dessen grew up in Chapel Hill, North Carolina and attended UNC-Chapel Hill, graduating with highest honors in Creative Writing. She is the author of several novels, including Someone Like You, Just Listen and Along for the Ride.
A motion picture based on her first two books, entitled How to Deal, was released in 2003. Her tenth novel,What Happened to Goodbye, will be published in May 2011. She lives in North Carolina.
Genre/ Subgenre
Contemporary Life/ Coming of Age, Romance
Curriculum Ties
Sociology
Booktalking Ideas
1) How does divorce change the lives of families?
2) Is divorce always a bad thing, or are there good things about it?
3) How does the saying "don't judge a book by its cover" pertain to the story?
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 14+
Challenge Issues
Underage drinking
Language
Challenge defense ideas
-Become familiar with the book and its content.
-Refer to the collection development policy of the library, see
http://sfpl.org/pdf/about/policies/collection-development-plan.pdf
-Refer to reviews from Booklist, School Library Journal, and Publisher’s Weekly available for viewing on amazon.com http://www.amazon.com/Along-Ride-Sarah-Dessen/dp/0670011940/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1292215029&sr=1-1
Why Included in Titles Selected
Popular author with teenage girls
Plot Summary
Auden is a talented and intellectually gifted girl, but somewhat of a loner. Her parents are divorced and she finds herself struggling especially with insomnia. Her mother is overbearing and judgemental. Auden decides to accept her stepmother, Heidi's, invitation to stay with her, her father, and baby half-sister, Thisbe, in the town of Colby. The summer at her father's beach house isn't as calm as Auden thinks it will be. Heidi is stressed out over her baby and Auden's father is too busy writing a novel to pay attention to his family. Frustrated, Auden wanders onto a beach frequented by other teens. There she meets a boy named Jake and they surprisingly end up kissing. Soon the small town kids are confronting her about the kiss. Auden already feels like an outsider and this makes everything even worse until she meets another outsider named Eli. Eli is also an insomniac. They end up hanging out together and helping each other deal with their pasts and look forward to their futures.
Critical Evaluation
The book is a truthful portrayal of young Auden's journey to find a place to belong and in the process learn to love. Parent's may be concerned about the underage drinking in the book, but in reality, teenagers drink and the book neither supports it nor condemns it. Fans of other Sarah Dessen novels like, Lock and Key and Just Listen, will enjoy Along for the Ride.
Reader's Annotation
Auden goes to live her father and stepmother the summer before college. She has many "first" experiences and learns to deal with her dysfunctional family.
About the Author
Sarah Dessen grew up in Chapel Hill, North Carolina and attended UNC-Chapel Hill, graduating with highest honors in Creative Writing. She is the author of several novels, including Someone Like You, Just Listen and Along for the Ride.
A motion picture based on her first two books, entitled How to Deal, was released in 2003. Her tenth novel,What Happened to Goodbye, will be published in May 2011. She lives in North Carolina.
Genre/ Subgenre
Contemporary Life/ Coming of Age, Romance
Curriculum Ties
Sociology
Booktalking Ideas
1) How does divorce change the lives of families?
2) Is divorce always a bad thing, or are there good things about it?
3) How does the saying "don't judge a book by its cover" pertain to the story?
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 14+
Challenge Issues
Underage drinking
Language
Challenge defense ideas
-Become familiar with the book and its content.
-Refer to the collection development policy of the library, see
http://sfpl.org/pdf/about/policies/collection-development-plan.pdf
-Refer to reviews from Booklist, School Library Journal, and Publisher’s Weekly available for viewing on amazon.com http://www.amazon.com/Along-Ride-Sarah-Dessen/dp/0670011940/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1292215029&sr=1-1
Why Included in Titles Selected
Popular author with teenage girls
47. Boy2Girl by Terence Blacker
Blacker, Terence. Boy2Girl. Straus and Giroux, 2004. ISBN 0312371462
Plot Summary
When Sam's mother dies he is sent to live with his Aunt and cousin Matthew in England. In order to become a trusted member of Matthew's group of friends at school, Sam is given a test. He has to dress up as a girl and if he passes he will have the friendship of the boys at his new school. There is also another reason for the test. The boys want Sam to spy on a group of girls in order to learn their secrets. Soon Sam is passing as a girl, hanging out with the girls, and even attracting one of the popular guys at school. In another plot twist, Sam's dad arrives fresh out of jail searching for his son. Sam has to decide if fitting in while hiding from his father is important enough to continue the charade.
Critical Evaluation
Boy2Girl is a funny book which takes a different approach to how kids and adults look at gender roles. Do boys have it easier than girls, or vice versa? Do adults push their ideas about gender roles on their children? Should boys talk about their feelings? The story is told from a variety of characters' points of view which at times can be confusing but not impossible to follow. This is a great book to include in a collection because of its humorous approach to questioning gender roles.
Reader's Annotation
Thirteen-year old Sam dresses up as girl and what starts as a test soon turns into an outlandish situation.
About the Author
Terence Blacker is an English author, columnist, journalist, and publisher.
Blacker became has written childrens books and mysteries for adults. His first childrens book If I Could Work was published in 1987 and his first adult novel, FIXX, won critical acclaim
Genre/ Subgenre
Contemporary Life/ Humor
Curriculum Ties
Sociology
Booktalking Ideas
1) Do you think boys and girls are treated differently by adults? Why?
2) Would you ever dress up as the opposite sex for a day if only you would know?
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 14+
Challenge Issues
Cross dressing
Challenge defense ideas
-Become familiar with the book and its content.
-Refer to the collection development policy of the library, see http://sfpl.org/pdf/about/policies/collection-development-plan.pdf
-Refer to reviews from Booklist, School Library Journal, and Publisher’s Weekly available for viewing on amazon.com http://www.amazon.com/Boy2Girl-Terence-Blacker/dp/0374309264
-Try to get reviews of the book from teens who have read it.
Why Included in Titles Selected
Interesting subject matter
Plot Summary
When Sam's mother dies he is sent to live with his Aunt and cousin Matthew in England. In order to become a trusted member of Matthew's group of friends at school, Sam is given a test. He has to dress up as a girl and if he passes he will have the friendship of the boys at his new school. There is also another reason for the test. The boys want Sam to spy on a group of girls in order to learn their secrets. Soon Sam is passing as a girl, hanging out with the girls, and even attracting one of the popular guys at school. In another plot twist, Sam's dad arrives fresh out of jail searching for his son. Sam has to decide if fitting in while hiding from his father is important enough to continue the charade.
Critical Evaluation
Boy2Girl is a funny book which takes a different approach to how kids and adults look at gender roles. Do boys have it easier than girls, or vice versa? Do adults push their ideas about gender roles on their children? Should boys talk about their feelings? The story is told from a variety of characters' points of view which at times can be confusing but not impossible to follow. This is a great book to include in a collection because of its humorous approach to questioning gender roles.
Reader's Annotation
Thirteen-year old Sam dresses up as girl and what starts as a test soon turns into an outlandish situation.
About the Author
Terence Blacker is an English author, columnist, journalist, and publisher.
Blacker became has written childrens books and mysteries for adults. His first childrens book If I Could Work was published in 1987 and his first adult novel, FIXX, won critical acclaim
Genre/ Subgenre
Contemporary Life/ Humor
Curriculum Ties
Sociology
Booktalking Ideas
1) Do you think boys and girls are treated differently by adults? Why?
2) Would you ever dress up as the opposite sex for a day if only you would know?
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 14+
Challenge Issues
Cross dressing
Challenge defense ideas
-Become familiar with the book and its content.
-Refer to the collection development policy of the library, see http://sfpl.org/pdf/about/policies/collection-development-plan.pdf
-Refer to reviews from Booklist, School Library Journal, and Publisher’s Weekly available for viewing on amazon.com http://www.amazon.com/Boy2Girl-Terence-Blacker/dp/0374309264
-Try to get reviews of the book from teens who have read it.
Why Included in Titles Selected
Interesting subject matter
46. Party Girl by Lynne Ewing
Ewing, Lynne. Party Girl. Random House, 1998. ISBN 0679892850.
Plot Summary
Teenagers and best friends, Kata and Ana, attend a dance when the sound of gunfire interrupts their good time. Kata survives, but Ana loses her life. It is a typical occurrence in Los Angeles. Ana becomes another victim in the endless gang wars. Kata is angry and wants revenge but is torn between getting revenge and leaving the gang life forever. Kata struggles with an uncertain future, an alcoholic mother, her friends or "homeys" who seem hopeless and resigned to living the gang life, and falling in love. Will she find her way out of the gang life or become hopeless too?
Critical Evaluation
Party Girl is written with a very specific audience in mind. Most teenagers today will never have to experience the life that the characters in the book have. For that reason a lot of teenagers might not relate to the themes. That being said, it is a book that can be used to begin discussing such things as gang violence. The story is told from Kata's point of view which makes her character easy to care about. The book is short so there isn't a lot of development for the other characters. Party Girl should be part of a collection which includes a variety of other books about gang violence in order to show different perspectives with more insight.
Reader's Annotation
Kata's best friend, Ana, is killed in a drive-by shooting. Is it too late too get out of the Los Angeles gang life?
About the Author
Lynne Ewing is an American author and screenwriter.
Her first books were Drive-By and Party Girl. Drive-By took six years to write, and Party Girl has been made into a movie called Living the Life.
Genre/ Subgenre
Issues/ Gangs
Curriculum Ties
Sociology
Booktalking Ideas
1) Discuss why you think teenagers join gangs?
2) Discuss the differences between the characters in the book with teenagers you know? What circumstances make their lives different from yours?
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 14+
Challenge Issues
Gang violence, drinking/drug use
Challenge defense ideas
-Become familiar with the book and its content.
-Refer to the collection development policy of the library, see http://sfpl.org/pdf/about/policies/collection-development-plan.pdf
-Refer to reviews from Booklist, School Library Journal, and Publisher’s Weekly available for viewing on amazon.com http://www.amazon.com/Party-Knopf-Books-Lynne-Ewing/dp/037580210X/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1292297915&sr=1-1
-Try to get reviews of the book from teens who have read it.
Why Included in Titles Selected
I saw the title and first thought it would be a funny book along the lines of the Parker Posey movie of the same title. Instead I got a book about gangs.
Plot Summary
Teenagers and best friends, Kata and Ana, attend a dance when the sound of gunfire interrupts their good time. Kata survives, but Ana loses her life. It is a typical occurrence in Los Angeles. Ana becomes another victim in the endless gang wars. Kata is angry and wants revenge but is torn between getting revenge and leaving the gang life forever. Kata struggles with an uncertain future, an alcoholic mother, her friends or "homeys" who seem hopeless and resigned to living the gang life, and falling in love. Will she find her way out of the gang life or become hopeless too?
Critical Evaluation
Party Girl is written with a very specific audience in mind. Most teenagers today will never have to experience the life that the characters in the book have. For that reason a lot of teenagers might not relate to the themes. That being said, it is a book that can be used to begin discussing such things as gang violence. The story is told from Kata's point of view which makes her character easy to care about. The book is short so there isn't a lot of development for the other characters. Party Girl should be part of a collection which includes a variety of other books about gang violence in order to show different perspectives with more insight.
Reader's Annotation
Kata's best friend, Ana, is killed in a drive-by shooting. Is it too late too get out of the Los Angeles gang life?
About the Author
Lynne Ewing is an American author and screenwriter.
Her first books were Drive-By and Party Girl. Drive-By took six years to write, and Party Girl has been made into a movie called Living the Life.
Genre/ Subgenre
Issues/ Gangs
Curriculum Ties
Sociology
Booktalking Ideas
1) Discuss why you think teenagers join gangs?
2) Discuss the differences between the characters in the book with teenagers you know? What circumstances make their lives different from yours?
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 14+
Challenge Issues
Gang violence, drinking/drug use
Challenge defense ideas
-Become familiar with the book and its content.
-Refer to the collection development policy of the library, see http://sfpl.org/pdf/about/policies/collection-development-plan.pdf
-Refer to reviews from Booklist, School Library Journal, and Publisher’s Weekly available for viewing on amazon.com http://www.amazon.com/Party-Knopf-Books-Lynne-Ewing/dp/037580210X/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1292297915&sr=1-1
-Try to get reviews of the book from teens who have read it.Why Included in Titles Selected
I saw the title and first thought it would be a funny book along the lines of the Parker Posey movie of the same title. Instead I got a book about gangs.
45. Whale Talk by Chris Crutcher
Crutcher, Chris. Whale Talk. Greenwillow Books, 2001. ISBN 0688180191.
Plot Summary
Cutter High School is the typical place where the jocks rule the school and the outsider misfits struggle to fit in. T.J. Jones mixed-race, smart, and athletic and he also doesn't agree with how the less popular kids are treated. He decides to put together a swim team made up of himself and a group of misfits at the suggestion of his English teacher, Mr. Simet. The team grows closer with each meet and becomes a stronger team in more ways the one. They deal with bullies like racist football player Mike Barbour who has a personal vendetta against one of the swim team members, Chris, who is developmentally disabled. All the characters have life lessons to learn, even T.J. whose story comes to a mind-blowing conclusion in a heart wrenching scene with his mentally unstable father.
Critical Evaluation
Whale Talk is a heartwarming and sometimes painful look at high school and the dynamics between the popular kids and the outsiders get played out. T.J. is the narrator and at times seems wise beyond his years but his character is one the reader will root for until the end. His ability to bring together a group of misfit kids to form a successful swim team while becoming friends and overcoming life's trials is at the heart of the story. The book deals with prejudice all many levels (racism, disability) in a way that is accessible and easy to grasp for teenagers. A great book for any collection.
Reader's Annotation
A group of high school outcasts are asked by the smart and athletic T.J. to form a swim team.
About the Author
Chris Crutcher was born on July 17, 1946 in Dayton Ohio to a WWII bomber pilot and a homemaker. Crutcher grew up in Cascade, Idaho, a logging town north of Boise.
He has been honored with dozens of awards and honors including the CLA's 2005 St. Katharine Drexel Award, Writer Magazine's 2004 Writers Who Make A Difference Award, the ALA's 2000 Margaret A. Edwards Lifetime Achievement Award, the NCTE's 1998 National Intellectual Freedom Award and the ALAN Award. And he takes great pride in landing on the ALA Freedom to Read Foundation's top ten banned books and authors lists, whenever it happens.
Genre/ Subgenre
Issues/ Outsiders
Contemporary Life/ Sports
Curriculum Ties
Sociology
Booktalking Ideas
1) Bullying is a hot topic. What types of bullying happen in the book and what would you do if you were one of the characters getting bullied?
2) Did the book change your view on who can be considered a jock or athlete?
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 12+
Challenge Issues
Racism, bullying
Challenge defense ideas
-Become familiar with the book and its content.
-Refer to the collection development policy of the library, see http://sfpl.org/pdf/about/policies/collection-development-plan.pdf
-Refer to reviews from Booklist, School Library Journal, and Publisher’s Weekly available for viewing on amazon.com http://www.amazon.com/Whale-Talk-Chris-Crutcher/dp/0061771317/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1292301736&sr=1-1
Why Included in Titles Selected
Recommended by a coworker
Plot Summary
Cutter High School is the typical place where the jocks rule the school and the outsider misfits struggle to fit in. T.J. Jones mixed-race, smart, and athletic and he also doesn't agree with how the less popular kids are treated. He decides to put together a swim team made up of himself and a group of misfits at the suggestion of his English teacher, Mr. Simet. The team grows closer with each meet and becomes a stronger team in more ways the one. They deal with bullies like racist football player Mike Barbour who has a personal vendetta against one of the swim team members, Chris, who is developmentally disabled. All the characters have life lessons to learn, even T.J. whose story comes to a mind-blowing conclusion in a heart wrenching scene with his mentally unstable father.
Critical Evaluation
Whale Talk is a heartwarming and sometimes painful look at high school and the dynamics between the popular kids and the outsiders get played out. T.J. is the narrator and at times seems wise beyond his years but his character is one the reader will root for until the end. His ability to bring together a group of misfit kids to form a successful swim team while becoming friends and overcoming life's trials is at the heart of the story. The book deals with prejudice all many levels (racism, disability) in a way that is accessible and easy to grasp for teenagers. A great book for any collection.
Reader's Annotation
A group of high school outcasts are asked by the smart and athletic T.J. to form a swim team.
About the Author
Chris Crutcher was born on July 17, 1946 in Dayton Ohio to a WWII bomber pilot and a homemaker. Crutcher grew up in Cascade, Idaho, a logging town north of Boise.
He has been honored with dozens of awards and honors including the CLA's 2005 St. Katharine Drexel Award, Writer Magazine's 2004 Writers Who Make A Difference Award, the ALA's 2000 Margaret A. Edwards Lifetime Achievement Award, the NCTE's 1998 National Intellectual Freedom Award and the ALAN Award. And he takes great pride in landing on the ALA Freedom to Read Foundation's top ten banned books and authors lists, whenever it happens.
Genre/ Subgenre
Issues/ Outsiders
Contemporary Life/ Sports
Curriculum Ties
Sociology
Booktalking Ideas
1) Bullying is a hot topic. What types of bullying happen in the book and what would you do if you were one of the characters getting bullied?
2) Did the book change your view on who can be considered a jock or athlete?
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 12+
Challenge Issues
Racism, bullying
Challenge defense ideas
-Become familiar with the book and its content.
-Refer to the collection development policy of the library, see http://sfpl.org/pdf/about/policies/collection-development-plan.pdf
-Refer to reviews from Booklist, School Library Journal, and Publisher’s Weekly available for viewing on amazon.com http://www.amazon.com/Whale-Talk-Chris-Crutcher/dp/0061771317/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1292301736&sr=1-1
Why Included in Titles Selected
Recommended by a coworker
44. Crap: How to Deal With Annoying Teachers, Bosses, Backstabbers, and Other Stuff That Stinks by Erin Elisabeth Conley, Karen Macklin, Jake Miller
Conley, Erin E. ; Macklin, Karen; Miller, Jake. Crap: How to Deal With Annoying Teachers, Bosses, Backstabbers, and Other Stuff That Stinks. Zest Books, 2009. ISBN 9780979017353.
Summary
Crap is a guide for teenagers on how to deal with the "crap", or stress, in their lives. Do your parents give you grief for the clothes you wear, or your messy room? Do friends bombard you with complaints and whining? Do your teachers pick on you? The crap in your life doesn't have to ruin your day. You just have to learn how to deal with it and get rid of it when it doesn't add value to your life.
Chapters:
1) What is crap?
2) Avoiding crap...
3) Dealing With Crap...
4) Getting Rid of Crap...
5) Breaking the Stank Cycle...
Critical Evaluation
Teenagers will most likely be drawn to the book because of its title and parents may want their kids to avoid it for the same reason. What is great about this book is that it is actually a useful tool, a kind of self-help for teens. The authors give advice on how to deal with the stressful situation that teens may encounter in their lives. Is your teacher annoying? Well, you have to just deal with it because that teacher is the one giving you the grade. Did you break your leg right before tryouts? That is "crap" you couldn't help so you have to deal with it and think of the next step. The book is lighthearted and humorous while giving really great advice to make teenagers better people.
Reader's Annotation
A humorous guide for teens on how to deal with the things in life that annoy them.
About the Author
Erin Elisabeth Conley is a published author of young adult books. Published credits of Erin Elisabeth Conley include Kiss: A Girl's Guide to Puckering Up (PSST! Series), Uncool: A Girl's Guide to Misfitting In (PSST! Series), Crush: A Girl's Guide to Being Crazy in Love (PSST! Series), and Dumped: A Girl's Guide to Happiness After Heartbreak.
Karen Macklin is a writer and editor who grew up in New York and now resides most of the year in San Francisco. Her work spans a wide variety of forms from journalism and essay to plays, poetry, and creative nonfiction. She also teaches yoga and writing, and explores the world through photography.
Jake Miller is a writer who lives in Boston, Massachusetts. He has contributed essays, articles, and reviews to such publications as The New York Times. Miller's also wrote Decoding Mom: Making Sense of Her Moods, Her Methods, and Her Madness.
Genre
Nonfiction Humor
Curriculum Ties
N/A
Booktalking Ideas
1) How can you use the advice in the book to deal with the "crap" or stressful situations in your every day life?
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 13+
Reluctant readers
Challenge Issues
Use of the word "crap"
Challenge defense ideas
-Read and become familiar with the book.
-"Crap" is used as a term to refer to stresses that teenagers go through.
-ALA pick for reluctant readers
-Refer to reviews from Booklist, School Library Journal, and Publisher’s Weekly available for viewing on amazon.com http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_0_87?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=crap+how+to+deal+with+annoying+teachers+bosses+backstabbers+and+other+stuff+that+stinks&sprefix=crap+how+to+deal+with+annoying+teachers+bosses+backstabbers+and+other+stuff+that+stinks
Why Included in Titles Selected
ALA pick for reluctant readers
Summary
Crap is a guide for teenagers on how to deal with the "crap", or stress, in their lives. Do your parents give you grief for the clothes you wear, or your messy room? Do friends bombard you with complaints and whining? Do your teachers pick on you? The crap in your life doesn't have to ruin your day. You just have to learn how to deal with it and get rid of it when it doesn't add value to your life.
Chapters:
1) What is crap?
2) Avoiding crap...
3) Dealing With Crap...
4) Getting Rid of Crap...
5) Breaking the Stank Cycle...
Critical Evaluation
Teenagers will most likely be drawn to the book because of its title and parents may want their kids to avoid it for the same reason. What is great about this book is that it is actually a useful tool, a kind of self-help for teens. The authors give advice on how to deal with the stressful situation that teens may encounter in their lives. Is your teacher annoying? Well, you have to just deal with it because that teacher is the one giving you the grade. Did you break your leg right before tryouts? That is "crap" you couldn't help so you have to deal with it and think of the next step. The book is lighthearted and humorous while giving really great advice to make teenagers better people.
Reader's Annotation
A humorous guide for teens on how to deal with the things in life that annoy them.
About the Author
Erin Elisabeth Conley is a published author of young adult books. Published credits of Erin Elisabeth Conley include Kiss: A Girl's Guide to Puckering Up (PSST! Series), Uncool: A Girl's Guide to Misfitting In (PSST! Series), Crush: A Girl's Guide to Being Crazy in Love (PSST! Series), and Dumped: A Girl's Guide to Happiness After Heartbreak.
Karen Macklin is a writer and editor who grew up in New York and now resides most of the year in San Francisco. Her work spans a wide variety of forms from journalism and essay to plays, poetry, and creative nonfiction. She also teaches yoga and writing, and explores the world through photography.
Jake Miller is a writer who lives in Boston, Massachusetts. He has contributed essays, articles, and reviews to such publications as The New York Times. Miller's also wrote Decoding Mom: Making Sense of Her Moods, Her Methods, and Her Madness.
Genre
Nonfiction Humor
Curriculum Ties
N/A
Booktalking Ideas
1) How can you use the advice in the book to deal with the "crap" or stressful situations in your every day life?
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 13+
Reluctant readers
Challenge Issues
Use of the word "crap"
Challenge defense ideas
-Read and become familiar with the book.
-"Crap" is used as a term to refer to stresses that teenagers go through.
-ALA pick for reluctant readers
-Refer to reviews from Booklist, School Library Journal, and Publisher’s Weekly available for viewing on amazon.com http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_0_87?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=crap+how+to+deal+with+annoying+teachers+bosses+backstabbers+and+other+stuff+that+stinks&sprefix=crap+how+to+deal+with+annoying+teachers+bosses+backstabbers+and+other+stuff+that+stinks
Why Included in Titles Selected
ALA pick for reluctant readers
43. Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi
Satrapi, Marjane. (2003). Persepolis. New York : Pantheon Books. ISBN 0375422307.
Plot Summary
Persepolis is the memoir and graphic novel of author Marjane Satrapi. It is the story of Satrapi's growing up in Iran in the 1970's during the Islamic Revolution. Satrapi is an outspoken child of Marxists parents which makes life complicated in a world where the government wants to control people's lives with its repressive regime. Satrapi gives the history of Iran and the effects of war with Iraq, political repression, and her colorful and outspoken family.
Critical Evaluation
Persepolis is an important piece of work for both teenagers and adults. Beyond its black-and-white images that tell the story of Satrapi's life in a war torn and politically repressed country there is a story of a little girl who wants to maintain her indviduality. The reader sees her growing up and turning into a depressed woman that still holds out hope for her life to be happy and this makes the story easy to relate to when the political aspects become overwhelming. Persepolis was also made into a film which is equally as stunning and captivating. It is a must have for any library collection.
Reader's Annotation
Marjane Satrapi tells the story of her life growing up Iranian in the 1970's.
About the Author
Genre
Graphic novel, autobiography
Curriculum Ties
World History
Sociology
Booktalking Ideas
1) Discuss the politics of Iran as it pertains the female characters in the book.
2) How would you feel as a child growing up as Satrapi did?
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 14+
Challenge Issues
Violence (war), language, some drinking/drug use, politics
Challenge defense ideas
-Become familiar with the politics discussed in the book.
-Become familiar with the book and its content.
-Refer to the collection development policy of the library, see http://sfpl.org/pdf/about/policies/collection-development-plan.pdf
-Refer to reviews from Booklist, School Library Journal, and Publisher’s Weekly available for viewing on amazon.com http://www.amazon.com/Complete-Persepolis-Marjane-Satrapi/dp/0375714839/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1292303993&sr=1-1
Why Included in Titles Selected
Popular graphic novel, crossover title
Plot Summary
Persepolis is the memoir and graphic novel of author Marjane Satrapi. It is the story of Satrapi's growing up in Iran in the 1970's during the Islamic Revolution. Satrapi is an outspoken child of Marxists parents which makes life complicated in a world where the government wants to control people's lives with its repressive regime. Satrapi gives the history of Iran and the effects of war with Iraq, political repression, and her colorful and outspoken family.
Critical Evaluation
Persepolis is an important piece of work for both teenagers and adults. Beyond its black-and-white images that tell the story of Satrapi's life in a war torn and politically repressed country there is a story of a little girl who wants to maintain her indviduality. The reader sees her growing up and turning into a depressed woman that still holds out hope for her life to be happy and this makes the story easy to relate to when the political aspects become overwhelming. Persepolis was also made into a film which is equally as stunning and captivating. It is a must have for any library collection.
Reader's Annotation
Marjane Satrapi tells the story of her life growing up Iranian in the 1970's.
About the Author
Genre
Graphic novel, autobiography
Curriculum Ties
World History
Sociology
Booktalking Ideas
1) Discuss the politics of Iran as it pertains the female characters in the book.
2) How would you feel as a child growing up as Satrapi did?
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 14+
Challenge Issues
Violence (war), language, some drinking/drug use, politics
Challenge defense ideas
-Become familiar with the politics discussed in the book.
-Become familiar with the book and its content.
-Refer to the collection development policy of the library, see http://sfpl.org/pdf/about/policies/collection-development-plan.pdf
-Refer to reviews from Booklist, School Library Journal, and Publisher’s Weekly available for viewing on amazon.com http://www.amazon.com/Complete-Persepolis-Marjane-Satrapi/dp/0375714839/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1292303993&sr=1-1
Why Included in Titles Selected
Popular graphic novel, crossover title
42. Generation T: Beyond Fashion 120 New Ways to Transform a T-shirt by Megan Nicolay
Nicolay, Megan. (2006). Generation T: Beyond Fashion 120 New Ways to Transform a T-shirt. New York : Workman Pub. ISBN 9780761137856.
Summary
A Do-it-Yourself (DIY) guide for the creative teenager. The book shows teens how to cut, sew, deconstruct, reconstruct, and transform the everyday T-shirt into customized tees, tank tops, tube tops, handbags, blankets, and much more.
Chapters:
1) Tee Off
2) Tee Time
3) Par-tee On
4) Flir-tee Girls
5) Skir-tee Girls
6) The T-Zone
7) T-Wrecks
8) The Grand Finale
Critical Evaluation
Generation T is a guide for the creative teenager, or even the not-so-creative teen who wants to give it a try. It is for the aspiring fashion designer, or the budget conscious teen who wants to wear something original. Teenagers should not be deterred if they don't know how to sew. Although many of the designs require sewing, Nicolay includes projects that are "no sew" (about a one third). This is a wonderful and creative DIY book that should be included in any nonfiction teen collection.
Reader's Annotation
Learn how to turn a t-shirt into a variety of useful things like purses, iPod holders, and even leg warmers.
About the Author
Writer, editor, photographer, dancer, renegade fashionista, Megan Nicolay, is a seam-ripping, scissor-slinging artist.
Megan lives with her cat Tulu, and her sewing machine in Brooklyn, NY.
Genre
Non-fiction
Curriculum Ties
Art
Booktalking Ideas
1) Did the creations in the book give you any ideas as far as career choices such as becoming a designer?
2) Do you think you could create and sell some of the clothes you make?
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 12+
Challenge Issues
None
Why Included in Titles Selected
Title for creative teenagers
Summary
A Do-it-Yourself (DIY) guide for the creative teenager. The book shows teens how to cut, sew, deconstruct, reconstruct, and transform the everyday T-shirt into customized tees, tank tops, tube tops, handbags, blankets, and much more.
Chapters:
1) Tee Off
2) Tee Time
3) Par-tee On
4) Flir-tee Girls
5) Skir-tee Girls
6) The T-Zone
7) T-Wrecks
8) The Grand Finale
Critical Evaluation
Generation T is a guide for the creative teenager, or even the not-so-creative teen who wants to give it a try. It is for the aspiring fashion designer, or the budget conscious teen who wants to wear something original. Teenagers should not be deterred if they don't know how to sew. Although many of the designs require sewing, Nicolay includes projects that are "no sew" (about a one third). This is a wonderful and creative DIY book that should be included in any nonfiction teen collection.
Reader's Annotation
Learn how to turn a t-shirt into a variety of useful things like purses, iPod holders, and even leg warmers.
About the Author
Writer, editor, photographer, dancer, renegade fashionista, Megan Nicolay, is a seam-ripping, scissor-slinging artist.
Megan lives with her cat Tulu, and her sewing machine in Brooklyn, NY.
Genre
Non-fiction
Curriculum Ties
Art
Booktalking Ideas
1) Did the creations in the book give you any ideas as far as career choices such as becoming a designer?
2) Do you think you could create and sell some of the clothes you make?
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 12+
Challenge Issues
None
Why Included in Titles Selected
Title for creative teenagers
41. My Crazy Life: How I Survived My Family compiled by Allen Flaming and Kate Scowen
Flaming, Allen; Scowen, Kate. (2002). My Crazy Life: How I Survived My Family. Buffalo, N.Y: Firefly Books. ISBN 1550377337.
Summary
A collection of ten autobiographical stories about teenagers that have grown with dysfunctional families. Cassandra deals with her divorced parents and adjusting to her new families: Mom started living with a woman, Dad dates someone with kids. Peter deals with being a foster kid whose dad is an alcoholic and his mother abandoned him. He's been homeless on and off for years turning to crime, drugs, and alcohol to cope. Wanda grew up in Hungary and was taken care of by her loving grandmother. At six, her parents took her away and soon her mother began physically abusing her and at school she was bullied. The stress of her life resulted in her cutting herself and thinking of suicide. Maria's father died of AIDS when she was twelve. Her life became more difficult as she came to terms with being gay, dropped out of school, and considered suicide. Randy's parents are divorced. In order to deal with the pain of being sexually abused he becomes a runaway and drug addict. Ivannah is the child of immigrant parents from Vietnam. She had enough problems living in America and being from another country especially in an all-white school. Her mom began showing sign of schizophrenia and soon Ivannah was taking care of her brother and sister and being a shoulder to her father. Sajeed's parents sent him from his home in the Caribbean to live with his grandparents in Detroit when he was seven years old. It was because he looked "uncomfortable" but little did they know his "look" was becaue he had been sexually abused by his parents' friends. He became rebellious to the point someone wanted to kill him. Geri's dad died when she was two years old. Her mom raised her as a single parent and Geri family life was inconsistent. She rebelled, got arrested three times for shoplifting, drugs, and assault. Logan was raised in a strict Christian household where he received physical punishment if he stepped out of line. This made him run away and live on the streets where he became involved in drugs and violence. Aislin father is an alcoholic and physically abusive. Her mother was distant and refused to acknowledge the abuse.
Critical Evaluation
The stories told by the ten teenagers in this book are heartbreaking in their content. What makes the stories bearable is the fact that each teenager finds a way to overcome their unfortunate obstacles with the help from friends, supportive relatives, teachers, and other adults and most importantly their own desire to rise above their circumstances. Each story ends with the author giving the reader advice about how they deal with the hardships that have been part of their lives. A lot of teenagers go through the same hardships and this book shows that they are not alone.
Reader's Annotation
Ten teenagers tell their personal stories growing up in families affected by divorce, abandonment, alcoholism, abuse, or mental illness.
About the Editors
Allen Fleming has a master's degree in social work from the University of Toronto, Canada. he has several years' experience in the mental health and community development fields. Allen has served as program director for a number of youth-serving agencies.
Kate Scowen has worked with children and youth for over fifteen years. While completing her graduate degree in London, England, she volunteered with several youth-based organizations, researching street gangs and youth culture. She most recently worked with St. Stephen's Community House, a community-based social service agency in Toronto's Kensington Market.
Genre
Nonfiction, Contemporary issues
Curriculum Ties
Sociology
Booktalking Ideas
1) Which of the stories stood out to you the most and why?
2) Discuss different resources teenagers can turn to in time of need.
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 13+
Challenge Issues
Topics such as sexual/physical abuse, alcoholism/drug use, crime.
Challenge defense ideas
-Become familiar with the topics discussed in the book.
-Refer to resources for troubled teens to accompany the book.
-Refer to the collection development policy of the library, see http://sfpl.org/pdf/about/policies/collection-development-plan.pdf
-Refer to reviews from Booklist, School Library Journal, and Publisher’s Weekly available for viewing on amazon.com http://www.amazon.com/My-Crazy-Life-Survived-Family/dp/141762566X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1292306922&sr=1-1
Why Included in Titles Selected
Wanted to include serious topics for troubled teens
Summary
A collection of ten autobiographical stories about teenagers that have grown with dysfunctional families. Cassandra deals with her divorced parents and adjusting to her new families: Mom started living with a woman, Dad dates someone with kids. Peter deals with being a foster kid whose dad is an alcoholic and his mother abandoned him. He's been homeless on and off for years turning to crime, drugs, and alcohol to cope. Wanda grew up in Hungary and was taken care of by her loving grandmother. At six, her parents took her away and soon her mother began physically abusing her and at school she was bullied. The stress of her life resulted in her cutting herself and thinking of suicide. Maria's father died of AIDS when she was twelve. Her life became more difficult as she came to terms with being gay, dropped out of school, and considered suicide. Randy's parents are divorced. In order to deal with the pain of being sexually abused he becomes a runaway and drug addict. Ivannah is the child of immigrant parents from Vietnam. She had enough problems living in America and being from another country especially in an all-white school. Her mom began showing sign of schizophrenia and soon Ivannah was taking care of her brother and sister and being a shoulder to her father. Sajeed's parents sent him from his home in the Caribbean to live with his grandparents in Detroit when he was seven years old. It was because he looked "uncomfortable" but little did they know his "look" was becaue he had been sexually abused by his parents' friends. He became rebellious to the point someone wanted to kill him. Geri's dad died when she was two years old. Her mom raised her as a single parent and Geri family life was inconsistent. She rebelled, got arrested three times for shoplifting, drugs, and assault. Logan was raised in a strict Christian household where he received physical punishment if he stepped out of line. This made him run away and live on the streets where he became involved in drugs and violence. Aislin father is an alcoholic and physically abusive. Her mother was distant and refused to acknowledge the abuse.
Critical Evaluation
The stories told by the ten teenagers in this book are heartbreaking in their content. What makes the stories bearable is the fact that each teenager finds a way to overcome their unfortunate obstacles with the help from friends, supportive relatives, teachers, and other adults and most importantly their own desire to rise above their circumstances. Each story ends with the author giving the reader advice about how they deal with the hardships that have been part of their lives. A lot of teenagers go through the same hardships and this book shows that they are not alone.
Reader's Annotation
Ten teenagers tell their personal stories growing up in families affected by divorce, abandonment, alcoholism, abuse, or mental illness.
About the Editors
Allen Fleming has a master's degree in social work from the University of Toronto, Canada. he has several years' experience in the mental health and community development fields. Allen has served as program director for a number of youth-serving agencies.
Kate Scowen has worked with children and youth for over fifteen years. While completing her graduate degree in London, England, she volunteered with several youth-based organizations, researching street gangs and youth culture. She most recently worked with St. Stephen's Community House, a community-based social service agency in Toronto's Kensington Market.
Genre
Nonfiction, Contemporary issues
Curriculum Ties
Sociology
Booktalking Ideas
1) Which of the stories stood out to you the most and why?
2) Discuss different resources teenagers can turn to in time of need.
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 13+
Challenge Issues
Topics such as sexual/physical abuse, alcoholism/drug use, crime.
Challenge defense ideas
-Become familiar with the topics discussed in the book.
-Refer to resources for troubled teens to accompany the book.
-Refer to the collection development policy of the library, see http://sfpl.org/pdf/about/policies/collection-development-plan.pdf
-Refer to reviews from Booklist, School Library Journal, and Publisher’s Weekly available for viewing on amazon.com http://www.amazon.com/My-Crazy-Life-Survived-Family/dp/141762566X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1292306922&sr=1-1
Why Included in Titles Selected
Wanted to include serious topics for troubled teens
40. Mad (Magazine)
Mad. (Magazine). Issued Quarterly. New York, N.Y.: Educational Comics, Inc.
ISSN 0024-9319 1
Summary
Mad is one of the longest running magazines in America. It has been around since 1952. Mad main source of humor is its comic satires on pop culture, politics, and entertainment. Mad has a spokesman in Alfred E. Neuman's red hair and freckled face that graces every cover. The magazine is a no holds barred laugh fest, poking fun at everyone from President Obama to Justin Bieber. One of the most popular features is the Spy Vs. Spy comic which pits two spies against each other, one dressed in all white, one dressed in all black.
Critical Evaluation
The great thing about Mad is that in its humor it is never raunchy nor does it go for the shock factor. It is all straightforward, ironic humor poking fun at the sometimes ridiculous world of pop culture, politics, and entertainment. It says the things we wish we all could at one time or another.
Reader's Annotation
Funny parodies of popular culture done it comic form.
Genre
Humor
Curriculum Ties
N/A
Booktalking Ideas
1) Discuss how Mad uses humor to dissect pop culture, politics, and entertainment.
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 12+
Challenge Issues
N/A
Challenge defense ideas
Why Included in Titles Selected
I loved Mad as a teenager and wanted to see if it was still funny as an adult.
ISSN 0024-9319 1
Summary
Mad is one of the longest running magazines in America. It has been around since 1952. Mad main source of humor is its comic satires on pop culture, politics, and entertainment. Mad has a spokesman in Alfred E. Neuman's red hair and freckled face that graces every cover. The magazine is a no holds barred laugh fest, poking fun at everyone from President Obama to Justin Bieber. One of the most popular features is the Spy Vs. Spy comic which pits two spies against each other, one dressed in all white, one dressed in all black.
Critical Evaluation
The great thing about Mad is that in its humor it is never raunchy nor does it go for the shock factor. It is all straightforward, ironic humor poking fun at the sometimes ridiculous world of pop culture, politics, and entertainment. It says the things we wish we all could at one time or another.
Reader's Annotation
Funny parodies of popular culture done it comic form.
Genre
Humor
Curriculum Ties
N/A
Booktalking Ideas
1) Discuss how Mad uses humor to dissect pop culture, politics, and entertainment.
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 12+
Challenge Issues
N/A
Challenge defense ideas
Why Included in Titles Selected
I loved Mad as a teenager and wanted to see if it was still funny as an adult.
39. The Basketball Diaries by Jim Carroll
Carroll, Jim. (1978). The Basketball Diaries. New York: Penguin Books. ISBN 9780140100181.
Plot Summary
Carrol's diaries chronicle his life growing up on the streets of New York City. At thirteen he is a promising basketball star who uses a fake birth certificate from his coach to play in a twelve and under basketball tournament. When not playing basketball Carroll and his friends wreak havoc by sniffing cleaning fluids to get high, stealing, and getting drunk. As his life progresses he attends a Catholic school although he is not Catholic. Carroll begins to experiment with other drugs like marijuana and heroin. As his drug use spins out of control he loses his job and begins to have sexual encounters with different girls but still maintains his skills as a talented basketball player. Soon his drug addiction spins out of control and he begins selling his body to men to make money to support his habit. Carroll eventually ends up in prison for a month at Rikers. All his experiences do not cure him of his addiction. In the end he is still searching for something that is missing in his life.
Critical Evaluation
The Basketball Diaries is not an easy book to read because of its controversial subject matter. The pages are filled with Carroll's messy life including descriptions of his drug use, sexual encounters and crime sprees. The book is a dark and serious look into the deep hole the character falls into because of his drug use. Readers will want to find a silver lining in the hopes that Carroll will recognize his talent as a basketball star especially after he receives a scholarship to go to a private school based on his talent, but even that bit of hope is ruined because of drugs. The only positive message here is that drugs will destroy your life no matter how smart and talented you are. Carroll's book has been questioned by several school and library boards and many want to see it banned. Although the subject matter is controversial the author merely tells his own personal story and neither condones or supports the use of drugs. It is considered a classic in some literary circles and should be supported and included in collections.
Reader's Annotation
A rebellious young boy chronicles his coming-of-age on the streets of New York City. He is an all-star basketball player and a heroin addict.
About the Author
Jim Carroll (August 1, 1949 - September 11, 2009) was an author, poet, and punk musician. His most famous work is The Basketball Diaries. He led a interesting life working with the likes of Andy Warhol writing film dialogue and inventing character names. He also formed the punk band, Jim Carroll Band in the late 70's. He also wrote poetry and the titles The Book of Nods and Fear of Dreaming.
The Basketball Diaries accounts his teenage life growing up in New York City while battling a heroin addiction which began when he was only thirteen years old.
Genre
Memoir, crossover
Curriculum Ties
Sociology
Booktalking Ideas
1) Discuss why you think the author began taking drugs.
2) Discuss the effects of drug use on teenagers especially promising athletes.
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 16+
Challenge Issues
Violence, strong language, sex, drug use, homosexuality
Challenge defense ideas
-Become familiar with the author and the serious subject matter
-Refer to the collection development policy of the library, see http://sfpl.org/pdf/about/policies/collection-development-plan.pdf
-Try to get reviews of the book from teens and adults who have read it.
Why Included in Titles Selected
One of my favorite books
Plot Summary
Carrol's diaries chronicle his life growing up on the streets of New York City. At thirteen he is a promising basketball star who uses a fake birth certificate from his coach to play in a twelve and under basketball tournament. When not playing basketball Carroll and his friends wreak havoc by sniffing cleaning fluids to get high, stealing, and getting drunk. As his life progresses he attends a Catholic school although he is not Catholic. Carroll begins to experiment with other drugs like marijuana and heroin. As his drug use spins out of control he loses his job and begins to have sexual encounters with different girls but still maintains his skills as a talented basketball player. Soon his drug addiction spins out of control and he begins selling his body to men to make money to support his habit. Carroll eventually ends up in prison for a month at Rikers. All his experiences do not cure him of his addiction. In the end he is still searching for something that is missing in his life.
Critical Evaluation
The Basketball Diaries is not an easy book to read because of its controversial subject matter. The pages are filled with Carroll's messy life including descriptions of his drug use, sexual encounters and crime sprees. The book is a dark and serious look into the deep hole the character falls into because of his drug use. Readers will want to find a silver lining in the hopes that Carroll will recognize his talent as a basketball star especially after he receives a scholarship to go to a private school based on his talent, but even that bit of hope is ruined because of drugs. The only positive message here is that drugs will destroy your life no matter how smart and talented you are. Carroll's book has been questioned by several school and library boards and many want to see it banned. Although the subject matter is controversial the author merely tells his own personal story and neither condones or supports the use of drugs. It is considered a classic in some literary circles and should be supported and included in collections.
Reader's Annotation
A rebellious young boy chronicles his coming-of-age on the streets of New York City. He is an all-star basketball player and a heroin addict.
About the Author
Jim Carroll (August 1, 1949 - September 11, 2009) was an author, poet, and punk musician. His most famous work is The Basketball Diaries. He led a interesting life working with the likes of Andy Warhol writing film dialogue and inventing character names. He also formed the punk band, Jim Carroll Band in the late 70's. He also wrote poetry and the titles The Book of Nods and Fear of Dreaming.
The Basketball Diaries accounts his teenage life growing up in New York City while battling a heroin addiction which began when he was only thirteen years old.
Genre
Memoir, crossover
Curriculum Ties
Sociology
Booktalking Ideas
1) Discuss why you think the author began taking drugs.
2) Discuss the effects of drug use on teenagers especially promising athletes.
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 16+
Challenge Issues
Violence, strong language, sex, drug use, homosexuality
Challenge defense ideas
-Become familiar with the author and the serious subject matter
-Refer to the collection development policy of the library, see http://sfpl.org/pdf/about/policies/collection-development-plan.pdf
-Try to get reviews of the book from teens and adults who have read it.
Why Included in Titles Selected
One of my favorite books
38. The Boyfriend List by E. Lockhart
Lockhart, E. (2005). The Boyfriend List. New York: Delacorte Press. ISBN 9780385902380
Plot Summary
In the past ten days Ruby Oliver, nicknamed Roo, has lost a boyfriend, is fighting with her friends, got caught by her mom drinking a beer, failed a math test, and that is only the beginning. When the panic attacks begin her parents question if she's suicidal, or maybe she has an eating disorder. She tells them it is neither so they decide she is troubled and send her to see a psychologist, Doctor Z. Roo begins to discuss some of the things she's going through most of them concerning boys so Doctor Z. convince Roo to make a "boyfriend list" and think about what each boy on the list means to her. Not only does Roo have to deal with the list, but also a home life where her parents are constantly fighting over her and a social life where she's been turned into the social outcast. To makes matters worse her list becomes public after she throws it in the trash. As Roo discusses her list with Doctor Z. she also begins to understand the pain she's feeling over lost friendships, self-acceptance, and what really matters in life.
Critical Evaluation
The Boyfriend List is a book that teenage girls will definitely love. Each chapter is dedicated to one of the boys Roo's list from Ben, who didn't even realize she considered him a boyfriend, to Angelo, who she only went on one date with. The book is full of teenage angst which most teenagers can relate to. How do you get over kissing a boy you like who no longer wants anything to do with you? How do you win back your friends after one of them thinks you stole her boyfriend? The book is a fun read, but does get distracting because Roo's character uses footnotes to elaborate on certain topics such as in chapter 8 when she talks about how annoying her mother is acting. There is three paragraph footnote describing what is annoying Roo. The footnotes take the reader away from the story and would be better placed within in the story itself.
Reader's Annotation
Fifteen year-old Ruby Oliver has been having panic attacks. The last ten days have been a nightmare. Does she have too many boyfriends?
About the Author
E. Lockhart is the author of three Ruby Oliver books: The Boyfriend List, The Boy Book, and The Treasure Map of Boys — plus a fourth, Real Live Boyfriends, that comes out December 28, 2010. Her other books include Fly on the Wall, Dramarama, The Disreputable History of Frankie Landau-Banks and How to Be Bad.
Lockhart grew up in Cambridge, MA and Seattle, WA. She went to college at Vassar and graduate school at Columbia. She has a doctorate in English literature.
Genre
Fiction, Chick-Lit, Romance
Curriculum Ties
None
Booktalking Ideas
1) Discuss the relationship between Doctor Z. and Roo? Is the boyfriend list a good idea?
2) Discuss the reasons Roo's relationship with her friends fell apart.
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 12+
Challenge Issues
None
Why Included in Titles Selected
Wanted to include a "chick-lit" title
Plot Summary
In the past ten days Ruby Oliver, nicknamed Roo, has lost a boyfriend, is fighting with her friends, got caught by her mom drinking a beer, failed a math test, and that is only the beginning. When the panic attacks begin her parents question if she's suicidal, or maybe she has an eating disorder. She tells them it is neither so they decide she is troubled and send her to see a psychologist, Doctor Z. Roo begins to discuss some of the things she's going through most of them concerning boys so Doctor Z. convince Roo to make a "boyfriend list" and think about what each boy on the list means to her. Not only does Roo have to deal with the list, but also a home life where her parents are constantly fighting over her and a social life where she's been turned into the social outcast. To makes matters worse her list becomes public after she throws it in the trash. As Roo discusses her list with Doctor Z. she also begins to understand the pain she's feeling over lost friendships, self-acceptance, and what really matters in life.
Critical Evaluation
The Boyfriend List is a book that teenage girls will definitely love. Each chapter is dedicated to one of the boys Roo's list from Ben, who didn't even realize she considered him a boyfriend, to Angelo, who she only went on one date with. The book is full of teenage angst which most teenagers can relate to. How do you get over kissing a boy you like who no longer wants anything to do with you? How do you win back your friends after one of them thinks you stole her boyfriend? The book is a fun read, but does get distracting because Roo's character uses footnotes to elaborate on certain topics such as in chapter 8 when she talks about how annoying her mother is acting. There is three paragraph footnote describing what is annoying Roo. The footnotes take the reader away from the story and would be better placed within in the story itself.
Reader's Annotation
Fifteen year-old Ruby Oliver has been having panic attacks. The last ten days have been a nightmare. Does she have too many boyfriends?
About the Author
E. Lockhart is the author of three Ruby Oliver books: The Boyfriend List, The Boy Book, and The Treasure Map of Boys — plus a fourth, Real Live Boyfriends, that comes out December 28, 2010. Her other books include Fly on the Wall, Dramarama, The Disreputable History of Frankie Landau-Banks and How to Be Bad.
Lockhart grew up in Cambridge, MA and Seattle, WA. She went to college at Vassar and graduate school at Columbia. She has a doctorate in English literature.
Genre
Fiction, Chick-Lit, Romance
Curriculum Ties
None
Booktalking Ideas
1) Discuss the relationship between Doctor Z. and Roo? Is the boyfriend list a good idea?
2) Discuss the reasons Roo's relationship with her friends fell apart.
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 12+
Challenge Issues
None
Why Included in Titles Selected
Wanted to include a "chick-lit" title
37. Lily Dale: Awakening by Wendy Corsi Staub
Staub, Wendy Corsi. (2007). Lily Dale: Awakening. New York: Holtzbrinck Publishers. ISBN 0802798438.
Plot Summary
After Calla's boyfriend breaks up with her via text message she doesn't think life could get any worse. Weeks later her mother dies in an accident. Calla is sent to live with her grandmother in the town of Lily Dale while her father heads to California for a new job. Calla is surprised to discover that Lily Dale is a town whose residents have a long history of being psychics. Calla begins to experience strange things like seeing the ghost of a missing girl. Soon she begins to realize that maybe her mother's death wasn't an accident and that Calla may be next in the line of the family of psychics.
Critical Evaluation
The book, the first in the Lily Dale series, is well-written story perfect for teens who enjoy the supernatural. Calla must deal with the loss of her mother while discovering new things about herself. The topic is one that many teens can relate to. Staub throws action and romance to keep the reader hooked and connected to the stories characters.
Reader's Annotation
Seventeen year-old Calla goes to stay with her psychic grandmother after the death of her mother. She soon discovers secrets about her mother that shake her to the bone.
About the Author
New York Times bestseller Wendy Corsi Staub is the award-winning author of more than seventy published novels and has sold more than three million books worldwide. Under her own name, Wendy achieved New York Times bestselling status with her single title psychological suspense novels. Those novels and the women's fiction she writes under the pseudonym Wendy Markham have also frequently appeared on the USA Today, Barnes and Noble Top Ten, and Bookscan bestseller lists.
Wendy now lives in the New York City suburbs with her husband of nineteen years and their two children. A 1986 graduate of the State University of New York at Fredonia, she proudly delivered the keynote commencement address at her alma mater in May 2008 and is serving a three-year appointment to the Dean's Advisory Council for the College of Arts and Sciences.
Genre
Mystery, supernatural
Curriculum Ties
N/A
Booktalking Ideas
1) Discuss the moments when Calla begins to realize her psychic abilities.
2) Discuss the history of the town of Lily Dale. Is it a real place?
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 12+
Challenge Issues
Psychic phenomenon
Challenge defense ideas
-Become familiar with the book and its content.
-Refer to the collection development policy of the library, see http://sfpl.org/pdf/about/policies/collection-development-plan.pdf
-Refer to reviews from Booklist, School Library Journal, and Publisher’s Weekly available for viewing on amazon.com http://www.amazon.com/Lily-Dale-Awakening/dp/0802798438/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1292314345&sr=1-1
Why Included in Titles Selected
Wanted to include a mystery title
Plot Summary
After Calla's boyfriend breaks up with her via text message she doesn't think life could get any worse. Weeks later her mother dies in an accident. Calla is sent to live with her grandmother in the town of Lily Dale while her father heads to California for a new job. Calla is surprised to discover that Lily Dale is a town whose residents have a long history of being psychics. Calla begins to experience strange things like seeing the ghost of a missing girl. Soon she begins to realize that maybe her mother's death wasn't an accident and that Calla may be next in the line of the family of psychics.
Critical Evaluation
The book, the first in the Lily Dale series, is well-written story perfect for teens who enjoy the supernatural. Calla must deal with the loss of her mother while discovering new things about herself. The topic is one that many teens can relate to. Staub throws action and romance to keep the reader hooked and connected to the stories characters.
Reader's Annotation
Seventeen year-old Calla goes to stay with her psychic grandmother after the death of her mother. She soon discovers secrets about her mother that shake her to the bone.
About the Author
New York Times bestseller Wendy Corsi Staub is the award-winning author of more than seventy published novels and has sold more than three million books worldwide. Under her own name, Wendy achieved New York Times bestselling status with her single title psychological suspense novels. Those novels and the women's fiction she writes under the pseudonym Wendy Markham have also frequently appeared on the USA Today, Barnes and Noble Top Ten, and Bookscan bestseller lists.
Wendy now lives in the New York City suburbs with her husband of nineteen years and their two children. A 1986 graduate of the State University of New York at Fredonia, she proudly delivered the keynote commencement address at her alma mater in May 2008 and is serving a three-year appointment to the Dean's Advisory Council for the College of Arts and Sciences.
Genre
Mystery, supernatural
Curriculum Ties
N/A
Booktalking Ideas
1) Discuss the moments when Calla begins to realize her psychic abilities.
2) Discuss the history of the town of Lily Dale. Is it a real place?
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 12+
Challenge Issues
Psychic phenomenon
Challenge defense ideas
-Become familiar with the book and its content.
-Refer to the collection development policy of the library, see http://sfpl.org/pdf/about/policies/collection-development-plan.pdf
-Refer to reviews from Booklist, School Library Journal, and Publisher’s Weekly available for viewing on amazon.com http://www.amazon.com/Lily-Dale-Awakening/dp/0802798438/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1292314345&sr=1-1
Why Included in Titles Selected
Wanted to include a mystery title
36. Street Artists: The Complete Guide by Eleaonor Mathieson and Xavier A. Tapies
Editors: Mathieson, Eleanor; Tapies, Xavier A. Photography: Arango, Glenn. (2009). Street Artists: The Complete Guide. London : Graffito Books. ISBN 9780956028419
Summary
Street Art is an informative and comprehensive look into actual people who have created some of the most famous graffiti art around the world. Because graffiti, or "tagging" is considered illegal in most places, the artists go by nicknames like Bansky and Swoon. The book's pages are filled with colorful photographs, interviews and history of the artists and where there work has been seen.
Critical Evaluation
Anyone who has lived in urban areas like New York, Los Angeles, London, and San Francisco can attest to the fact that street art, or "graffiti" can be found around every corner. The photographs taken of the graffiti art are colorful and prove that some of the artists' work is better than pieces by well known artists in museums across the world. The book should be considered a platform for young artists to use because it shows that art comes in all forms. Teenagers inspiring to be graffiti artists do need to realize that it is illegal and that these artists have become known for not only their work but also alluding the police. That being said, the art in the book is beautiful, innovative, and fresh.
Reader's Annotation
Dive into the history of the most well known graffiti artists from around the world.
About the Editors & Photographer
Eleanor Mathieson and Xavier A. Tapies are the authors of Street Art and the War on Terror: How the Best Graffiti Artists said NO to the Iraq War.
Glenn Arango is from Chicago. For the past ten years he has travelled the world photographing street art in the world's urban centers. He is based in San Francisco where he works in the internet industry.
Genre
Nonfiction, Art
Curriculum Ties
Art, Art History
Booktalking Ideas
1) Discuss the differences in graffiti art and more traditional art forms.
2) Would the art form of graffiti be the same if it was legal?
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 13+
Challenge Issues
Graffiti, legal issues
Challenge defense ideas
-Become familiar with the book by reading it and examining the photos.
-Refer to different forms of art including graffiti.
-Refer to the collection development policy of the library, see http://sfpl.org/pdf/about/policies/collection-development-plan.pdf
Why Included in Titles Selected
A lot of teenagers at my library are interested in art and graffiti and I've always loved the graffiti I've seen living in both San Francisco and New York City.
Summary
Street Art is an informative and comprehensive look into actual people who have created some of the most famous graffiti art around the world. Because graffiti, or "tagging" is considered illegal in most places, the artists go by nicknames like Bansky and Swoon. The book's pages are filled with colorful photographs, interviews and history of the artists and where there work has been seen.
Critical Evaluation
Anyone who has lived in urban areas like New York, Los Angeles, London, and San Francisco can attest to the fact that street art, or "graffiti" can be found around every corner. The photographs taken of the graffiti art are colorful and prove that some of the artists' work is better than pieces by well known artists in museums across the world. The book should be considered a platform for young artists to use because it shows that art comes in all forms. Teenagers inspiring to be graffiti artists do need to realize that it is illegal and that these artists have become known for not only their work but also alluding the police. That being said, the art in the book is beautiful, innovative, and fresh.
Reader's Annotation
Dive into the history of the most well known graffiti artists from around the world.
About the Editors & Photographer
Eleanor Mathieson and Xavier A. Tapies are the authors of Street Art and the War on Terror: How the Best Graffiti Artists said NO to the Iraq War.
Glenn Arango is from Chicago. For the past ten years he has travelled the world photographing street art in the world's urban centers. He is based in San Francisco where he works in the internet industry.
Genre
Nonfiction, Art
Curriculum Ties
Art, Art History
Booktalking Ideas
1) Discuss the differences in graffiti art and more traditional art forms.
2) Would the art form of graffiti be the same if it was legal?
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 13+
Challenge Issues
Graffiti, legal issues
Challenge defense ideas
-Become familiar with the book by reading it and examining the photos.
-Refer to different forms of art including graffiti.
-Refer to the collection development policy of the library, see http://sfpl.org/pdf/about/policies/collection-development-plan.pdf
Why Included in Titles Selected
A lot of teenagers at my library are interested in art and graffiti and I've always loved the graffiti I've seen living in both San Francisco and New York City.
35. Opposing Viewpoints Resource Center (Database)
Opposing Viewpoints Resource Center. (Database). San Francisco Public Library @ www.sfpl.org
Summary
(http://www.gale.cengage.com/InContext/viewpoints.htm)
Opposing Viewpoints in Context is the premier online resource covering today’s hottest social issues, from Offshore Drilling to Climate Change, Health Care to Immigration. Opposing Viewpoints in Context helps students research, analyze and organize a broad variety of data for conducting research, completing writing assignments, preparing for debates, creating presentations and more.
This database is offered by the San Francisco Public Library. In order to access the database, the user must have a library card. The database can be used for research papers, debates, and presentations. The topics are endless so a student would do best approaching it knowing what he or she is looking for. Once the user clicks on a topic, for example "Cloning", a definition of the word or topic is shown with a history of the topic. There are videos, images, and articles that the user can browse and the bibliographic information also given. The amount of resources may be overwhelming for students who aren't used to doing heavy research. The more intellectually gifted student will most likely find the database exciting and fun to browse.
There is also an easy link that allows the user to browse all the issues and topics available in alphabetical order. Another interesting and useful tool is the link to the curriculum standards in the United States, Australia, Canada, England, Ireland, New Zealand, Scotland, and Wales.
The database is an excellent resource for the older teen just finishing high school or in college.
Annotation
Database showing diffferent views on a variety of topics.
About Gale
Gale®, part of Cengage Learning, is a world leader in e-research and educational publishing for libraries, schools and businesses. Best known for its accurate and authoritative reference content as well as its intelligent organization of full-text magazine and newspaper articles, the company creates and maintains more than 600 databases that are published online, in print, as eBooks and in microform.
Database
Curriculum Ties
All
Reading Level/Interest Age
All ages
Challenge Issues
N/A
Why Included in Titles Selected
I wanted to include databases in the blog.
Summary
(http://www.gale.cengage.com/InContext/viewpoints.htm)
Opposing Viewpoints in Context is the premier online resource covering today’s hottest social issues, from Offshore Drilling to Climate Change, Health Care to Immigration. Opposing Viewpoints in Context helps students research, analyze and organize a broad variety of data for conducting research, completing writing assignments, preparing for debates, creating presentations and more.
In addition to the engaging, streamlined interface and media-rich topic pages, the product's unprecedented collection of content and curriculum-focused tools that help students explore issues from all perspectives include:
- More than 14,000 pro/con viewpoint essays
- 5,000+ topic overviews
- More than 300 primary source documents
- 300 biographies of social activists and reformers
- More than 775 court-case overviews
- 5 million periodical articles
- Nearly 6,000 statistical tables, charts and graphs
- Nearly 70,000 images and a link to Google Image Search
- Thousands of podcasts, including weekly presidential addresses and premier NPR programs
- A national and state curriculum standards search, correlated to the content that allows educators to quickly identify material by grade and discipline
This database is offered by the San Francisco Public Library. In order to access the database, the user must have a library card. The database can be used for research papers, debates, and presentations. The topics are endless so a student would do best approaching it knowing what he or she is looking for. Once the user clicks on a topic, for example "Cloning", a definition of the word or topic is shown with a history of the topic. There are videos, images, and articles that the user can browse and the bibliographic information also given. The amount of resources may be overwhelming for students who aren't used to doing heavy research. The more intellectually gifted student will most likely find the database exciting and fun to browse.
There is also an easy link that allows the user to browse all the issues and topics available in alphabetical order. Another interesting and useful tool is the link to the curriculum standards in the United States, Australia, Canada, England, Ireland, New Zealand, Scotland, and Wales.
The database is an excellent resource for the older teen just finishing high school or in college.
Annotation
Database showing diffferent views on a variety of topics.
About Gale
Gale®, part of Cengage Learning, is a world leader in e-research and educational publishing for libraries, schools and businesses. Best known for its accurate and authoritative reference content as well as its intelligent organization of full-text magazine and newspaper articles, the company creates and maintains more than 600 databases that are published online, in print, as eBooks and in microform.
The Gale family of publishing imprints includes such noted reference brands as Macmillan Reference USA™, Charles Scribner's Sons® and Primary Source Media™.
GenreDatabase
Curriculum Ties
All
Reading Level/Interest Age
All ages
Challenge Issues
N/A
Why Included in Titles Selected
I wanted to include databases in the blog.
34. Teen Health & Wellness (Database)
Teen Health & Wellness. (Database). Rosen Publishing: San Francisco Public Library @ www.sfpl.org.
Summary
This database offered by San Francisco Public Library has information from experts on diseases, illnesses, disabilities, and alchohol, plus additional information on mental health, friendship, dating, family life, grief, sexuality, and life skills for teens.
Full list of links:
Body Basics
Developmental Disabilities and Disorders
Diseases, Infections, and Conditions
Diversity
Drugs and Alcohol
Eating Disorders
Family Life
Friendship and Dating
Green Living
Grief and Loss
Mind, Mood, and Emotions
Nutrition, Fitness, and Appearance
Safety
Sexuality and Sexual Health
Skills for School, Work, and Life
Critical Evaluation
This is a useful tool for teens of all ages. It can be accessed through the library with a library card number and password. Teens can use it for personal reasons, or for research.
Annotation
Database for teens discussing health and wellness.
About Rosen Publishing
Founded in 1950, Rosen Publishing has a long history of providing high-quality nonfiction books for children and young adults. Early on, Rosen recognized an urgent need for self-help material written specifically for teens. Rosen’s flagship book on venereal disease, the first of its kind for teens, met with acclaim and approval, and marked the beginning of a publishing program for the school and public library communities. Rosen Publishing gained a strong reputation for its sensitive treatment of difficult subjects; accurate, age-appropriate information; and reassuring tone.
Genre
Database
Curriculum Ties
Health Education
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 13+
Challenge Issues
N/A
Why Included in Titles Selected
I wanted to include a database.
Summary
This database offered by San Francisco Public Library has information from experts on diseases, illnesses, disabilities, and alchohol, plus additional information on mental health, friendship, dating, family life, grief, sexuality, and life skills for teens.
Full list of links:
Body Basics
Developmental Disabilities and Disorders
Diseases, Infections, and Conditions
Diversity
Drugs and Alcohol
Eating Disorders
Family Life
Friendship and Dating
Green Living
Grief and Loss
Mind, Mood, and Emotions
Nutrition, Fitness, and Appearance
Safety
Sexuality and Sexual Health
Skills for School, Work, and Life
Critical Evaluation
This is a useful tool for teens of all ages. It can be accessed through the library with a library card number and password. Teens can use it for personal reasons, or for research.
Annotation
Database for teens discussing health and wellness.
About Rosen Publishing
Founded in 1950, Rosen Publishing has a long history of providing high-quality nonfiction books for children and young adults. Early on, Rosen recognized an urgent need for self-help material written specifically for teens. Rosen’s flagship book on venereal disease, the first of its kind for teens, met with acclaim and approval, and marked the beginning of a publishing program for the school and public library communities. Rosen Publishing gained a strong reputation for its sensitive treatment of difficult subjects; accurate, age-appropriate information; and reassuring tone.
Genre
Database
Curriculum Ties
Health Education
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 13+
Challenge Issues
N/A
Why Included in Titles Selected
I wanted to include a database.
33. Learning Express Library (Database)
Learing Express Library. (Database) Available through San Francisco Public Library @ www.sfpl.org
Summary
Learning Express Library provides online practice tests based on official exams for the SAT, GED, GRE, GMAT, Civil Service Jobs, ASVAB, and more. It is a resource for all ages and offers other services like U.S. Citizenship, information for Spanish speaking users, and all levels of education.
Critical Evaluation
This database is available through the public library. New users must register an account and that is the only negative thing. It can't be accessed with just a library card. Once registered, users have access to all the college prep tests, GED preparation, and job search links.
Reader's Annotation
Online practice tests for teens furthering their education.
Genre
Database
Curriculum Ties
College Prep
Reading Level/Interest Age
All ages
Challenge Issues
N/A
Why Included in Titles Selected
I wanted to include a useful database for the college bound teenager.
Summary
Learning Express Library provides online practice tests based on official exams for the SAT, GED, GRE, GMAT, Civil Service Jobs, ASVAB, and more. It is a resource for all ages and offers other services like U.S. Citizenship, information for Spanish speaking users, and all levels of education.
Critical Evaluation
This database is available through the public library. New users must register an account and that is the only negative thing. It can't be accessed with just a library card. Once registered, users have access to all the college prep tests, GED preparation, and job search links.
Reader's Annotation
Online practice tests for teens furthering their education.
Genre
Database
Curriculum Ties
College Prep
Reading Level/Interest Age
All ages
Challenge Issues
N/A
Why Included in Titles Selected
I wanted to include a useful database for the college bound teenager.
32. CollegeSource Online (Database)
CollegeSource Online. (Database). CollegeSource, Inc. Available through San Francisco Public Library @ www.sfpl.org
Summary
This database is accessible with a library card and password. It provides full text college catalogs for 2-Year, 4-Year, and Graduate schools in the United States and other countries. Other resources include:
-Assessment Testing and Preparation
-Associations of Education & Library Professionals
-Career Resources
-College Guides and Planning
-Financial Aid Resources
-State Departments of Education
Critical Evaluation
CollegeSource is a valuable tool in finding schools all over the world. Its great to let college-bound teens know that the choices are limitless as far as education goes. They just need to be prepared and stay on top of their grades. This database has resources to guide them to success.
Annotation
Find information and catalogs for thousands of colleges and universities.
About CollegeSource, Inc.
CollegeSource, Inc. is a small but dynamic company with a mission to serve institutions of higher education and the students who use education to become more employable, engaged citizens. Our current focus is college catalog and institution research tools, primarily in the area of transfer credit evaluation. CollegeSource, Inc. is about making the work of researching college catalogs faster, easier, and cheaper. The result is tremendous time savings for administrators and a better experience for transfer students.
Genre
Database
Curriculum Ties
College Preparation
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 16+
Challenge Issues
N/A
Why Included in Titles Selected
I wanted to include information for the college bound teenager.
Summary
This database is accessible with a library card and password. It provides full text college catalogs for 2-Year, 4-Year, and Graduate schools in the United States and other countries. Other resources include:
-Assessment Testing and Preparation
-Associations of Education & Library Professionals
-Career Resources
-College Guides and Planning
-Financial Aid Resources
-State Departments of Education
Critical Evaluation
CollegeSource is a valuable tool in finding schools all over the world. Its great to let college-bound teens know that the choices are limitless as far as education goes. They just need to be prepared and stay on top of their grades. This database has resources to guide them to success.
Annotation
Find information and catalogs for thousands of colleges and universities.
About CollegeSource, Inc.
CollegeSource, Inc. is a small but dynamic company with a mission to serve institutions of higher education and the students who use education to become more employable, engaged citizens. Our current focus is college catalog and institution research tools, primarily in the area of transfer credit evaluation. CollegeSource, Inc. is about making the work of researching college catalogs faster, easier, and cheaper. The result is tremendous time savings for administrators and a better experience for transfer students.
Genre
Database
Curriculum Ties
College Preparation
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 16+
Challenge Issues
N/A
Why Included in Titles Selected
I wanted to include information for the college bound teenager.
31. Forged by Fire by Sharon M. Draper
Draper, Sharon M. (1997). Forged by Fire. New York : Aladdin Paperbacks. ISBN 0689818513.
Plot Summary
As a child, Gerald Nickleby lives with his drug-addicted mother who often leaves him alone for hours at a time. When she is home she is cruel and abusive often apologizing after her many violent episodes. Gerald is fascinated by fire and his fascination leads to him burning the house down while his mother is gone. Luckily he is saved. His wheelchair-bound Aunt Queen gains custody of him while his mother is sent away to jail after authorities see the signs of abuse on Gerald's body. Aunt Queen is a kind woman who nurtures Gerald and gives him the love he missed growing up with his mother. The morning before his ninth birthday Aunt Queen gives him the news that his mother is out of jail and coming to visit. To make up for the bad news, Aunt Queen gives Gerald his birthday present early. A brand new bike is hiding in the garage. The birthday arrives and with it comes Gerald's mother along with her new husband, Jordan, and his shy daughter, Angel. Jordan is a cold man with darkness in his eyes. Gerald's mother brings more bad news with her. She wants Gerald to live with her, Jordan, and Angel. The news is too shocking for Gerald and with tears in his eyes he runs out the door. When he returns his mother and Jordan are gone, but Angel is still there with Aunt Queen. Gerald and Angel immediately form a bond. He feels like he must protect the tiny girl, but doesn't yet know or understand why. He takes Angel out to ride his new bike. When they come home bursting through the door and laughing they find Aunt Queen lying on the floor. She is dead. Gerald's life with mother and new family begins. He soon realizes why he must protect Angel. His stepfather is hiding a horrible secret. Gerald and Angel grow up into teenagers and form a bond that allows them to survive the abuse Jordan directs at them. Gerald isn't scared of Jordan and does his best at making smart decisions, but Angel is terrified. She too holds a dark secret. Will the secret destroy the family, or will the secret come out and save the kids from their horrible life?
Critical Evaluation
Forged by Fire is the second book in Draper's Hazelwood High trilogy. Many of the characters from her first book in the series, Tears of a Tiger, appear in this book. Draper creates vivid and emotionally aware characters that the reader wants to see overcome their obstacles. Jordan is portrayed as a monster, but one that so many teenagers from abusive households have encountered. This is an important book that touches on the topic of abuse. It has a message that abused teenagers have the power to change the circumstances they are in even if it doesn't seem so. Forged by Fire is touching, heartbreaking, and well worth the read.
Reader's Annotation
Gerald must protect his stepsister from a violent father while growing into a man and keeping his dignity.
About the Author
Sharon M. Draper lives in Cincinnati, Ohio, where she taught English for twenty-five years. She has been active in the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) and was named National Teacher of the Year in 1997.
Draper's other books include Tears of a Tiger, Romiette and Julio, Darkness Before Dawn, and Double Dutch.
Genre
Series, Multiple and Unique Issues, African American
Curriculum Ties
Sociology
Booktalking Ideas
1) Discuss the unique bond between Gerald and Angel.
2) Discuss the reasons why you think Gerald's mother ignored the abuse happening in the family.
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 13+
Challenge Issues
Physical abuse, sexual abuse/incest
Challenge defense ideas
-Coretta Scott King Award (1998), ALA Best Book for Young Adults
-Become familiar with the book and its content.
-Refer to the collection development policy of the library, see http://sfpl.org/pdf/about/policies/collection-development-plan.pdf
-Refer to reviews from Booklist, School Library Journal, and Publisher’s Weekly available for viewing on amazon.com http://www.amazon.com/Forged-Fire-Sharon-M-Draper/dp/0689818513/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1292386475&sr=1-1
Why Included in Titles Selected
I read the Bluford High series by last semester and wanted to read something similar.
Plot Summary
As a child, Gerald Nickleby lives with his drug-addicted mother who often leaves him alone for hours at a time. When she is home she is cruel and abusive often apologizing after her many violent episodes. Gerald is fascinated by fire and his fascination leads to him burning the house down while his mother is gone. Luckily he is saved. His wheelchair-bound Aunt Queen gains custody of him while his mother is sent away to jail after authorities see the signs of abuse on Gerald's body. Aunt Queen is a kind woman who nurtures Gerald and gives him the love he missed growing up with his mother. The morning before his ninth birthday Aunt Queen gives him the news that his mother is out of jail and coming to visit. To make up for the bad news, Aunt Queen gives Gerald his birthday present early. A brand new bike is hiding in the garage. The birthday arrives and with it comes Gerald's mother along with her new husband, Jordan, and his shy daughter, Angel. Jordan is a cold man with darkness in his eyes. Gerald's mother brings more bad news with her. She wants Gerald to live with her, Jordan, and Angel. The news is too shocking for Gerald and with tears in his eyes he runs out the door. When he returns his mother and Jordan are gone, but Angel is still there with Aunt Queen. Gerald and Angel immediately form a bond. He feels like he must protect the tiny girl, but doesn't yet know or understand why. He takes Angel out to ride his new bike. When they come home bursting through the door and laughing they find Aunt Queen lying on the floor. She is dead. Gerald's life with mother and new family begins. He soon realizes why he must protect Angel. His stepfather is hiding a horrible secret. Gerald and Angel grow up into teenagers and form a bond that allows them to survive the abuse Jordan directs at them. Gerald isn't scared of Jordan and does his best at making smart decisions, but Angel is terrified. She too holds a dark secret. Will the secret destroy the family, or will the secret come out and save the kids from their horrible life?
Critical Evaluation
Forged by Fire is the second book in Draper's Hazelwood High trilogy. Many of the characters from her first book in the series, Tears of a Tiger, appear in this book. Draper creates vivid and emotionally aware characters that the reader wants to see overcome their obstacles. Jordan is portrayed as a monster, but one that so many teenagers from abusive households have encountered. This is an important book that touches on the topic of abuse. It has a message that abused teenagers have the power to change the circumstances they are in even if it doesn't seem so. Forged by Fire is touching, heartbreaking, and well worth the read.
Reader's Annotation
Gerald must protect his stepsister from a violent father while growing into a man and keeping his dignity.
About the Author
Sharon M. Draper lives in Cincinnati, Ohio, where she taught English for twenty-five years. She has been active in the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) and was named National Teacher of the Year in 1997.
Draper's other books include Tears of a Tiger, Romiette and Julio, Darkness Before Dawn, and Double Dutch.
Genre
Series, Multiple and Unique Issues, African American
Curriculum Ties
Sociology
Booktalking Ideas
1) Discuss the unique bond between Gerald and Angel.
2) Discuss the reasons why you think Gerald's mother ignored the abuse happening in the family.
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 13+
Challenge Issues
Physical abuse, sexual abuse/incest
Challenge defense ideas
-Coretta Scott King Award (1998), ALA Best Book for Young Adults
-Become familiar with the book and its content.
-Refer to the collection development policy of the library, see http://sfpl.org/pdf/about/policies/collection-development-plan.pdf
-Refer to reviews from Booklist, School Library Journal, and Publisher’s Weekly available for viewing on amazon.com http://www.amazon.com/Forged-Fire-Sharon-M-Draper/dp/0689818513/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1292386475&sr=1-1
Why Included in Titles Selected
I read the Bluford High series by last semester and wanted to read something similar.
30. Lungs by Florence + The Machine (Music CD)
Florence + The Machine. (Sound Recording). Lungs. New York: Universal Republic, 2009. Standard No. 602517979406.
Summary
Album tracks include: Dog Days Are Over -- Rabbit Heart (Raise it Up) -- I'm Not Calling You a Liar -- Howl -- Kiss With a Fist -- Girl With One Eye -- Drumming Song -- Between Two Lungs -- Cosmic Love -- My Boy Builds Coffins -- Hurricane Drunk -- Blinding -- You've Got the Love
Critical Evaluation
Florence Welch, of Florence + The Machine has an undeniable talent. Many people have never heard of her and her band until recently when they exploded onto the U.S. charts with the song, "Dog Days Are Over", which was featured in the Julia Roberts movie, Eat, Pray, Love. Her music has also been featured in the teen favorites, The Twilight Saga: Eclipse and the television show, The Vampire Diaries. Florence's voice has a range that is both moody, dreamy, yet can change to an upbeat growl in an instant. Her lyrics speak of lost love, found love, and hope when confronted with life's obstacles. "Dog Days Are Over" is the most popular track with its upbeat sound backed by pounding drums and great lyrics: "Happiness hit her like a train on a track..." Teenagers and adults looking for music with a bit more substance than the synthesized pop that is all over the radios will love this album.
Reader's Annotation
Florence + The Machine has been big in England for years. Now the eccentric singer and her band bring their big and moody sound to the states.
About the Artist
Florence Welch of the Grammy-nominated Best New Artist Florence + The Machine, grew up in Camberwell, south London, the oldest of three children. One of her earliest musical memories is standing on top of the trunk where her dad kept his vinyl collection, dancing with him to the Rolling Stones. She started singing along to Nina Simone and Dusty Springfield at home, expanded her vocal range with arias. The Machine is made up of a rotating group of musicians.
The album, Lungs, has been within the top 40 in the United Kingdom for 65 consecutive weeks, making it one of the best selling albums of 2009 and 2010 so far.
Genre
Music CD, Indie Rock
Curriculum Ties
N/A
Interest Age
Ages 14+
Challenge Issues
N/A
Why Included in Titles Selected
This is one of my favorite albums at the moment. It is on constant play.
Summary
Album tracks include: Dog Days Are Over -- Rabbit Heart (Raise it Up) -- I'm Not Calling You a Liar -- Howl -- Kiss With a Fist -- Girl With One Eye -- Drumming Song -- Between Two Lungs -- Cosmic Love -- My Boy Builds Coffins -- Hurricane Drunk -- Blinding -- You've Got the Love
Critical Evaluation
Florence Welch, of Florence + The Machine has an undeniable talent. Many people have never heard of her and her band until recently when they exploded onto the U.S. charts with the song, "Dog Days Are Over", which was featured in the Julia Roberts movie, Eat, Pray, Love. Her music has also been featured in the teen favorites, The Twilight Saga: Eclipse and the television show, The Vampire Diaries. Florence's voice has a range that is both moody, dreamy, yet can change to an upbeat growl in an instant. Her lyrics speak of lost love, found love, and hope when confronted with life's obstacles. "Dog Days Are Over" is the most popular track with its upbeat sound backed by pounding drums and great lyrics: "Happiness hit her like a train on a track..." Teenagers and adults looking for music with a bit more substance than the synthesized pop that is all over the radios will love this album.
Reader's Annotation
Florence + The Machine has been big in England for years. Now the eccentric singer and her band bring their big and moody sound to the states.
About the Artist
Florence Welch of the Grammy-nominated Best New Artist Florence + The Machine, grew up in Camberwell, south London, the oldest of three children. One of her earliest musical memories is standing on top of the trunk where her dad kept his vinyl collection, dancing with him to the Rolling Stones. She started singing along to Nina Simone and Dusty Springfield at home, expanded her vocal range with arias. The Machine is made up of a rotating group of musicians.
The album, Lungs, has been within the top 40 in the United Kingdom for 65 consecutive weeks, making it one of the best selling albums of 2009 and 2010 so far.
Genre
Music CD, Indie Rock
Curriculum Ties
N/A
Interest Age
Ages 14+
Challenge Issues
N/A
Why Included in Titles Selected
This is one of my favorite albums at the moment. It is on constant play.
29. The Fame Monster by Lady Gaga (Music CD)
Lady Gaga. (2009). The Fame Monster. Santa Monica, CA : Streamline/Konlive/Cherrytree/Interscope. Standard No. 602527210360.
Summary
Album tracks include: Bad Romance -- Alejandro -- Monster -- Speechless -- Dance in the Dark -- Telephone (feat. Beyoncé) -- So Happy I Could Die -- Teeth -- Just Dance (feat. Colby O'Donis) -- Lovegame -- Paparazzi -- Poker face -- Eh, Eh (Nothing Else I Can Say) -- Beautiful, Dirty, Rich -- The Fame -- Money Honey -- Starstruck (feat. Space Cowboy and Flo Rida) -- Boys Boys Boys -- Paper Gangsta -- Brown Eyes -- I Like it Rough -- Summerboy.
Critical Evaluation
Lady Gaga's album, The Fame Monster, is an international hit. She has quickly become one of the most famous musical artists of the decade. Her songs are upbeat, dance tunes full of fun and a bit of sexual innuendo without being off putting. Parents may not like her sexy image, but teens and young adults flock to her because of her originality and freedom of expression. Not only is her music infectious, but her politics and views on life are very positive. She is an advocate for gay rights and supports AIDS research. During concerts she always tells her fans, or "little monsters", that they are free to be whatever they want and to aim high. One can't turn on the radio, turn on the t.v., or open a magazine without hearing or seeing Lady Gaga.
Reader's Annotation
World-famous pop icon, Lady Gaga, takes you on a dancing pop journey with this fabulous album.
About the Artist
Lady Gaga was born Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta. The 24-year old singer has seen a phenomanal rise to fame in the last year due to her infectious pop sound and outrageous public persona. Her fashions, including a dress made out of meat, have made the covers of magazines all over the world.
Lady Gaga got her start in the music scene of New York City's Lower East Side. She was discovered by another popular artist, Akon. She has won numerous awards including two Grammy Awards and Billboard named her Artist of the Year for 2010.
Genre
Music CD, Pop
Curriculum Ties
N/A
Reading Level/Interest Age
14+
Challenge Issues
Suggestive lyrics
Challenge defense ideas
-Become familiar with the artist's music and positive messages.
-Read reviews in magazines/online like Spin or Rolling Stone.
Why Included in Titles Selected
Lady Gaga is to today's teens what Madonna was to my generation.
Summary
Album tracks include: Bad Romance -- Alejandro -- Monster -- Speechless -- Dance in the Dark -- Telephone (feat. Beyoncé) -- So Happy I Could Die -- Teeth -- Just Dance (feat. Colby O'Donis) -- Lovegame -- Paparazzi -- Poker face -- Eh, Eh (Nothing Else I Can Say) -- Beautiful, Dirty, Rich -- The Fame -- Money Honey -- Starstruck (feat. Space Cowboy and Flo Rida) -- Boys Boys Boys -- Paper Gangsta -- Brown Eyes -- I Like it Rough -- Summerboy.
Critical Evaluation
Lady Gaga's album, The Fame Monster, is an international hit. She has quickly become one of the most famous musical artists of the decade. Her songs are upbeat, dance tunes full of fun and a bit of sexual innuendo without being off putting. Parents may not like her sexy image, but teens and young adults flock to her because of her originality and freedom of expression. Not only is her music infectious, but her politics and views on life are very positive. She is an advocate for gay rights and supports AIDS research. During concerts she always tells her fans, or "little monsters", that they are free to be whatever they want and to aim high. One can't turn on the radio, turn on the t.v., or open a magazine without hearing or seeing Lady Gaga.
Reader's Annotation
World-famous pop icon, Lady Gaga, takes you on a dancing pop journey with this fabulous album.
About the Artist
Lady Gaga was born Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta. The 24-year old singer has seen a phenomanal rise to fame in the last year due to her infectious pop sound and outrageous public persona. Her fashions, including a dress made out of meat, have made the covers of magazines all over the world.
Lady Gaga got her start in the music scene of New York City's Lower East Side. She was discovered by another popular artist, Akon. She has won numerous awards including two Grammy Awards and Billboard named her Artist of the Year for 2010.
Genre
Music CD, Pop
Curriculum Ties
N/A
Reading Level/Interest Age
14+
Challenge Issues
Suggestive lyrics
Challenge defense ideas
-Become familiar with the artist's music and positive messages.
-Read reviews in magazines/online like Spin or Rolling Stone.
Why Included in Titles Selected
Lady Gaga is to today's teens what Madonna was to my generation.
28. Skateboarding: Legendary Tricks by Steve Badillo
Badillo, Steve. (2007). Skateboarding: Legendary Tricks. San Diego, Calif. : Tracks. ISBN 9781884654305.
Summary
A comprehensive guide that shows how to perform dozens of skateboarding tricks. The book includes step by step photos and technical information. Badillo provides historical context about each trick and information about famous skateboarders like Tony Hawk and Lance Mountain.
Critical Evaluation
Badillo provides a guide to over 30 skateboarding tricks for the skateboarding teenager to learn and master. The book is written for skateboarders who have enough knowledge about the lingo. If a reader doesn't know the meaning of terms like "carving", "grinding", and "grab indy", than the book won't really help much. For those who do have knowledge, the book is a valuable tool to learn a lot of new tricks. Along with over 500 photos, Badillo gives the reader a comprehensive history of skateboarding and the pioneers who created these legendary tricks. This is a fun book to include in a collection because so many teenagers use skateboards as a main form of transportation.
Reader's Annotation
Learn how to perform legendary skateboarding tricks.
About the Author
Steve Badillo has co-authored three top selling skateboarding guides including Skateboarder's Start-up: New Levels and Skateboarding: Book of Tricks. He runs the SkateLab Skate Camp near Los Angeles. Badillo has worked as a stunt double and actor in skateboarding films including Lords of Dogtown.
Genre
Nonfiction, Sports
Curriculum Ties
N/A
Booktalking Ideas
1) Discuss the steps to becoming a professional skateboarder.
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 12+
Challenge Issues
N/A
Why Included in Titles Selected
I've always been jealous of skateboarders and their fearlessness.
Summary
A comprehensive guide that shows how to perform dozens of skateboarding tricks. The book includes step by step photos and technical information. Badillo provides historical context about each trick and information about famous skateboarders like Tony Hawk and Lance Mountain.
Critical Evaluation
Badillo provides a guide to over 30 skateboarding tricks for the skateboarding teenager to learn and master. The book is written for skateboarders who have enough knowledge about the lingo. If a reader doesn't know the meaning of terms like "carving", "grinding", and "grab indy", than the book won't really help much. For those who do have knowledge, the book is a valuable tool to learn a lot of new tricks. Along with over 500 photos, Badillo gives the reader a comprehensive history of skateboarding and the pioneers who created these legendary tricks. This is a fun book to include in a collection because so many teenagers use skateboards as a main form of transportation.
Reader's Annotation
Learn how to perform legendary skateboarding tricks.
About the Author
Steve Badillo has co-authored three top selling skateboarding guides including Skateboarder's Start-up: New Levels and Skateboarding: Book of Tricks. He runs the SkateLab Skate Camp near Los Angeles. Badillo has worked as a stunt double and actor in skateboarding films including Lords of Dogtown.
Genre
Nonfiction, Sports
Curriculum Ties
N/A
Booktalking Ideas
1) Discuss the steps to becoming a professional skateboarder.
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 12+
Challenge Issues
N/A
Why Included in Titles Selected
I've always been jealous of skateboarders and their fearlessness.
27. Frontline: Growing Up Online (DVD)
Frontline: Growing Up Online. (DVD). WGBH Educational Foundation; a Frontline co-production with Ark Media, LLC. Written by Rachel Dretzin ; produced and directed by Rachel Dretzin and John Maggio. 2010.
Summary
Adolescents today have a vast amount of information at their fingertips via the Internet. On this DVD, Frontline explores the impact that the Internet has on kids today by observing, interviewing, and researching both teens and their parents. Topics like cyberbullying, Youtube celebrities, gaming, and online predators.
Critical Evaluation
Growing Up Online is an eye-opening look into the impact that the Internet has on today's kids. It's both sad and shocking to witness kids whose only friends are the ones he has online. There is also the story of Ryan Halligan who was bullied online so badly that he eventually committed suicide. This scenario is one that has been occurring way too often in recent months, or at least the instances that the news is reporting. Frontline interviews worried parents who are concerned that their children don't have the knowledge or maturity to navigate the internet and make wise decisions. One girl rolls her eyes and says, "My parents don't understand that I've spent pretty much since second grade online. I know what to avoid." The girl is partly right. Too many parents stick their children in front of televisions and computers instead of spending time bonding. As a society we must question the importance of the Internet in the lives of our children. It is unavoidable, but what steps can we take to teach them to be responsible about using it? Growing Up Online raises these questions and tries to find that answer. This a a must have in any library collection. It is an educational tool that should be used.
Reader's Annotation
Frontline explores the impact the Internet has on teens and parents.
About Frontline
Frontline explores and illuminates the critical issues of our times - from Iraq and the war on terror, business, the economy to social issues, politics and health.
Genre
Televison program, Education
Curriculum Ties
Sociology, Internet Awareness
Discussion Ideas
1) Discuss what you use the Internet for.
2) How much time do you spend online and why?
3) Discuss things you can do to prevent cyberbullying.
4) Discuss the importance of being aware of online predators.
Reading Level/Interest Age
All ages
Challenge Issues
N/A
Why Included in Titles Selected
I think Internet use among teenagers is an important subject that should be discussed.
Summary
Adolescents today have a vast amount of information at their fingertips via the Internet. On this DVD, Frontline explores the impact that the Internet has on kids today by observing, interviewing, and researching both teens and their parents. Topics like cyberbullying, Youtube celebrities, gaming, and online predators.
Critical Evaluation
Growing Up Online is an eye-opening look into the impact that the Internet has on today's kids. It's both sad and shocking to witness kids whose only friends are the ones he has online. There is also the story of Ryan Halligan who was bullied online so badly that he eventually committed suicide. This scenario is one that has been occurring way too often in recent months, or at least the instances that the news is reporting. Frontline interviews worried parents who are concerned that their children don't have the knowledge or maturity to navigate the internet and make wise decisions. One girl rolls her eyes and says, "My parents don't understand that I've spent pretty much since second grade online. I know what to avoid." The girl is partly right. Too many parents stick their children in front of televisions and computers instead of spending time bonding. As a society we must question the importance of the Internet in the lives of our children. It is unavoidable, but what steps can we take to teach them to be responsible about using it? Growing Up Online raises these questions and tries to find that answer. This a a must have in any library collection. It is an educational tool that should be used.
Reader's Annotation
Frontline explores the impact the Internet has on teens and parents.
About Frontline
Frontline explores and illuminates the critical issues of our times - from Iraq and the war on terror, business, the economy to social issues, politics and health.
Genre
Televison program, Education
Curriculum Ties
Sociology, Internet Awareness
Discussion Ideas
1) Discuss what you use the Internet for.
2) How much time do you spend online and why?
3) Discuss things you can do to prevent cyberbullying.
4) Discuss the importance of being aware of online predators.
Reading Level/Interest Age
All ages
Challenge Issues
N/A
Why Included in Titles Selected
I think Internet use among teenagers is an important subject that should be discussed.
26. Living When a Young Friend Commits Suicide or Even Starts Talking about It by Earl A. Grollman and Max Malikow
Grollman, Earl A., Malikow, Max. (1999). Living When a Young Friend Commits Suicide, or Even Starts Talking about It. Boston: Beacon Press. ISBN 0807025038
Summary
Grollman's book is a compassionate and helpful book for anyone who has been affected by suicide whether someone you know has committed suicide, or is thinking about it. He guides the reader through emotions they may feel, why people commit suicide, and how to cope. Chapters include:
1) The First Days after a Death: What You May Feel
2) Was It Really a Suicide?
3) The Need to Know Why
4) Facing the Immediate Future
5) How to Cope
6) How Can You Help Suicidal People?
7) Religious Questions
8) Popular Misconceptions about Suicide
9) And Now, the Future
10) Conclusion: Suggested Materials and Resources
Critical Evaluation
Grollman's book could not be more relevant right now considering the news coverage of the rash of teen suicides currently plaguing the country. Each chapter in the book is relevant and should be read. One of the important things about the book is that Grolllman avoids venturing into clinical, technical explanations about suicide. He writes in a way that is always compassionate and he clearly has a lot of knowledge on the matter. He covers a lot even reminding people to laugh because it can provide occasional relief from sadness. Grollman doesn't just stop at giving advice, he provides valuable resources for those considering suicide, or those who want to help someone thinking about doing it. This is a very, very important book. Teenagers may not want to ask for help and if a book like this is available for them at the library they can begin to search for answers on their own and hopefully be able to eventually find the help they need.
Reader's Annotation
This book discusses the impact of suicide. Why do people do it? How to help someone who is thinking about it? How to deal when someone you know kills themselves.
About the Author
Earl A. Grollman is an internationally recognized grief counselor who often works with children and teenagers. He is the author of Living When a Loved One Has Died.
Max Malikow is a professor at Syracuse University and a pastoral counselor.
Genre
Nonfiction, Suicide
Curriculum Ties
Sociology
Health Education
Booktalking Ideas
1) Discuss what you can do to help a friend considering suicide.
2) Discuss the recent news reports of teens committing suicide. How do they make you feel?
Reading Level/Interest Age
Grades 7 & up
Challenge Issues
Suicide, religious discussion
Challenge defense ideas
-Research the topic and understand the importance of talking about such a topic
-Research the author's credentials
Why Included in Titles Selected
A book like this is so important considering the teens committing suicide at an alarming rate.
Summary
Grollman's book is a compassionate and helpful book for anyone who has been affected by suicide whether someone you know has committed suicide, or is thinking about it. He guides the reader through emotions they may feel, why people commit suicide, and how to cope. Chapters include:
1) The First Days after a Death: What You May Feel
2) Was It Really a Suicide?
3) The Need to Know Why
4) Facing the Immediate Future
5) How to Cope
6) How Can You Help Suicidal People?
7) Religious Questions
8) Popular Misconceptions about Suicide
9) And Now, the Future
10) Conclusion: Suggested Materials and Resources
Critical Evaluation
Grollman's book could not be more relevant right now considering the news coverage of the rash of teen suicides currently plaguing the country. Each chapter in the book is relevant and should be read. One of the important things about the book is that Grolllman avoids venturing into clinical, technical explanations about suicide. He writes in a way that is always compassionate and he clearly has a lot of knowledge on the matter. He covers a lot even reminding people to laugh because it can provide occasional relief from sadness. Grollman doesn't just stop at giving advice, he provides valuable resources for those considering suicide, or those who want to help someone thinking about doing it. This is a very, very important book. Teenagers may not want to ask for help and if a book like this is available for them at the library they can begin to search for answers on their own and hopefully be able to eventually find the help they need.
Reader's Annotation
This book discusses the impact of suicide. Why do people do it? How to help someone who is thinking about it? How to deal when someone you know kills themselves.
About the Author
Earl A. Grollman is an internationally recognized grief counselor who often works with children and teenagers. He is the author of Living When a Loved One Has Died.
Max Malikow is a professor at Syracuse University and a pastoral counselor.
Genre
Nonfiction, Suicide
Curriculum Ties
Sociology
Health Education
Booktalking Ideas
1) Discuss what you can do to help a friend considering suicide.
2) Discuss the recent news reports of teens committing suicide. How do they make you feel?
Reading Level/Interest Age
Grades 7 & up
Challenge Issues
Suicide, religious discussion
Challenge defense ideas
-Research the topic and understand the importance of talking about such a topic
-Research the author's credentials
Why Included in Titles Selected
A book like this is so important considering the teens committing suicide at an alarming rate.
25. Word Up! (Magazine)
Word Up! (Magazine). Issued Monthly. River Edge, NJ : Word Up! Publications. ISSN 1056-4691.
Summary
Word Up! is mostly photos of today's top hip hop and R & B artists including Nicki Minaj, Sean Kingston, and Drake. Whoever the magazine puts on the cover has a photo spread accompanied by an interview. It also includes reviews on music and movies catering to not only the African American teen, but any teen who loves hip hop music.
Critical Evaluation
A lot of parents are reluctant to accept hip hop as a viable form of music. Word Up! could possibly change that view. The artists in the magazine are usually outspoken musicians and actors that want to send positive messages to teens about accepting who they are and doing the best to succeed.
Reader's Annotation
Hip hop magazine for teens.
Genre
Magazine, African-American
Curriculum Ties
Music
Booktalking Ideas
1) Which African-American artists are most popular today?
2) Discuss the appeal of hip-hop and rap.
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 12+
Challenge Issues
N/A
Why Included in Titles Selected
I liked the idea of including a hip hop magazine.
Summary
Word Up! is mostly photos of today's top hip hop and R & B artists including Nicki Minaj, Sean Kingston, and Drake. Whoever the magazine puts on the cover has a photo spread accompanied by an interview. It also includes reviews on music and movies catering to not only the African American teen, but any teen who loves hip hop music.
Critical Evaluation
A lot of parents are reluctant to accept hip hop as a viable form of music. Word Up! could possibly change that view. The artists in the magazine are usually outspoken musicians and actors that want to send positive messages to teens about accepting who they are and doing the best to succeed.
Reader's Annotation
Hip hop magazine for teens.
Genre
Magazine, African-American
Curriculum Ties
Music
Booktalking Ideas
1) Which African-American artists are most popular today?
2) Discuss the appeal of hip-hop and rap.
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 12+
Challenge Issues
N/A
Why Included in Titles Selected
I liked the idea of including a hip hop magazine.
24. Seventeen (Magazine)
Seventeen. (Magazine). Issued Monthly. Philadelphia, Pa. : Triangle Publications. ISSN 0037-301X.
Summary
Seventeen is one of the most popular print and online magazine for teenage girls. The magazine covers popular culture, celebrity news, fashion, and beauty. It also gives advice to teens about love, sex, and relationships as well as career choices and how to be an overall successful young adult.
Critical Evaluation
Seventeen is a typical fashion, pop culture magazine. The positive thing about it is that it isn't just shallow articles and pictures of beautiful models, although there is plenty of that to be found throughout its pages. The magazine does its best to promote a healthy, positive message to its readers with advice columns about sex and relationships.
Reader's Annotation
Magazine for teenage girls which topics include health, fashion, beauty, and relationships.
About the Editor
Ann Shoket is the current editor-in-chief of Seventeen and has held the job since January 2007. She has made appearances on Tyra Bank's reality show, America's Next Top Model, as a guest judge. She began her career as a reporter at Steven Brill's The American Lawyer, then created the webzine Tag, an online community of artists and writers. Shoket was also senior editor with the Parade family of publications, and senior editor of CosmoGIRL! magazine.
Genre
Pop culture magazine
Curriculum Ties
N/A
Booktalking Ideas
1) How important is fashion, beauty, and pop culture to teens today?
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 15+
Challenge Issues
N/A
Why Included in Titles Selected
Popular with teenage girls.
Summary
Seventeen is one of the most popular print and online magazine for teenage girls. The magazine covers popular culture, celebrity news, fashion, and beauty. It also gives advice to teens about love, sex, and relationships as well as career choices and how to be an overall successful young adult.
Critical Evaluation
Seventeen is a typical fashion, pop culture magazine. The positive thing about it is that it isn't just shallow articles and pictures of beautiful models, although there is plenty of that to be found throughout its pages. The magazine does its best to promote a healthy, positive message to its readers with advice columns about sex and relationships.
Reader's Annotation
Magazine for teenage girls which topics include health, fashion, beauty, and relationships.
About the Editor
Ann Shoket is the current editor-in-chief of Seventeen and has held the job since January 2007. She has made appearances on Tyra Bank's reality show, America's Next Top Model, as a guest judge. She began her career as a reporter at Steven Brill's The American Lawyer, then created the webzine Tag, an online community of artists and writers. Shoket was also senior editor with the Parade family of publications, and senior editor of CosmoGIRL! magazine.
Genre
Pop culture magazine
Curriculum Ties
N/A
Booktalking Ideas
1) How important is fashion, beauty, and pop culture to teens today?
Reading Level/Interest Age
Ages 15+
Challenge Issues
N/A
Why Included in Titles Selected
Popular with teenage girls.
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