Fiction, Fantasy, & YA: MAGYK

Bibliograpy

Sage, Angie. 2005. Magyk (Septimus Heap, Book 1). Ill. by Mark Zug. New York, NY: Katherine Tegen Books. ISBN-13: 978-0060577315

Plot Summary

Septimus Heap, as the seventh son of a seventh son, should have incredible magical ablilities. Through the machinations of the evil wizard DomDaniel he grows up as boy 412 in the Young Army. In his place, the Heaps raise Jenna, whom Silas Heap finds in the snow the day Septimus is born. She turns out to be the missing princess DomDaniel wants to kill in his quest for control of the kingdom. When the ExtraOrdinary Wizard, Marcia Overstrand, takes her to the Wizard's Tower for protection, the whole family must escape the Assasin on her trail. Their quest leads them to Aunt Zelda's home in the swamp, a dragon boat, a magic ring, and true identities as they strive to defeat the evil wizard and save their kingdom.

Critical Analysis

From the long list of characters on a quest, to the map of unknown lands, Magyk follows the great tradition of high fantasy. Sage creates a complete, though small, world in the initial book in the Septimus Heap series. Details such as the spelling of Magyk or the talking floor in the Wizard's Tower add interest while descriptions of the dwellings, dress, and magical creatures complete the setting in the reader's mind. Characters fall into sharp divisions of good and evil. The "good" are likeable; some are easy to admire. Take Sally, the pub owner, for example. She risks her life and livelihood to help the Heaps escape. Septimus does not emerge strongly as the protagonist in this first novel. Readers must follow the series to watch him develop.

The plot is predictable; readers know 412 will turn out to be the missing Septimus. Still, Sage's inventiveness makes the reader wonder how the characters will overcome. From "shield bugs" to secret passages, they find a way. Her book contains humorous elements as well, such as Aunt Zelda's cabbage sandwiches and Marcia Overstrands purple boot fetish. Altogether Magyk makes a pleasing read. I found myself checking out the next book in this series to follow Septimus' further adventures and will most likely faithfully read to the conclusion.

Book Review Excerpts

Bulletin for the Center for Children's Books: " . . . This first book in the Septimus Heap series is a cheerful, clever offering; readers seeking a lighthearted dip into the world of fantasy will find safe haven here."

School Library Journal.: "Despite the hefty length, the novel is quite easy to follow. Many creative magical elements, such as the deliciously repulsive Magogs, add to the fun. Frequent point-of-view shifts give a well-rounded picture of the multiple plot threads and add many opportunities for light humor. On the other hand, with so many characters represented, it's hard to feel strong empathy for any of them."

Connections
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The rest of the series includes:

Sage, Angie. Flyte. (Book 2) ISBN-10: 0060577347
Sage, Angie. Physik. (Book 3) ISBN-13: 978-0060577377
Sage, Angie. Queste. (Book 4) .ISBN-13: 978-0060882075


Fans will enjoy exploring Septimus Heap's online world:


http://www.septimusheap.com/

Fiction, Fantasy, & YA- PRINCESS ACADEMY

Bibliography

Hale, Shannon. 2005. Princess Academy. New York, NY: Bloomsbury Publishing. ISBN-13: 978-1-58234-993-0.




Plot Summary

"After days of fasting and supplication, the priests perform a rite to divine which city or town is the home of the future princess." The mining community of Mount Eskel can barely believe that their girls must spend the winter in an academy created to prepare one of their daughters for the throne. Though Tutor Olana creates a hard environment for the girls, many feel excitement at the chance to become a princess. For Miri, the education offered presents just as riveting an opportunity, and as her mind blossoms, so does her clear vision and leadership abilities. When danger and hardship test the girls, Miri must trust in herself, use what she has learned, and rely on her mountain heritage to survive.

Critical Analysis

Shannon Hale hews a beautiful, if rough, world out of the Mount Eskel linder quarry. While Miri goes through her daily routine, the lifestyle and values of the village are revealed. Each chapter opens with a traditional song that adds a feeling of history and depth to the story. A reader feels drawn in to a realistic and close knit community of strong and independent miners.

Miri's courage and perceptiveness make her an appealing character. The uncertainty of her feelings for being a princess and the internal struggles she faces, create a believable protagonist. True to fantasy stories, the noble aspects of Miri's character prevail. Supporting characters enrich the story further. For example, the unstated motivation of her father to keep her out of the mines gives the reader a link to his past and his grief.

Hale keeps the reader's interest by weaving several subplots into the already intriguing academy experience. Miri's budding romance with Peder will interest preteen girls. Readers will cheer her bold efforts to improve the life of the entire village. This fantasy's satisfying ending proves better than "happily ever after."

Book Review Excerpt

Bulletin for the Center for Children's Books: "This could be a useful introduction to fantasy for realistic-novel buffs--the authentic sniping and backbiting of jealous girls cooped up together for a year, the character-driven plot, and the vigorous prose will carry readers of all kinds into the center of the story."

Connections

Some of my favorite fantasy stories with similar appeal and memorable heroines include:



Levine, Gail Carson. Ella Enchanted. ISBN-13: 978-0060734107

Mcdonald, George. The Princess and the Goblins. ISBN-13: 978-0140367461

Pattou, Edith. East. ISBN-13: 978-0152052218

DuPrau, Jeanne. The City of Ember. ISBN-13: 978-0375822742



After looking at the criteria for awarding Newbery medals, a class could create a medal of its own, choosing the criteria and judging books.

http://www.ala.org/ala/alsc/awardsscholarships/literaryawds/newberymedal/aboutnewbery/aboutnewbery.cfm

Fiction, Fantasy, & YA: HOW I LIVE NOW

Bibliography


Rosoff, Meg. 2004. How I Live Now. New York, NY: Wendy Lamb Books. ISBN 0-385-90908-X.


Plot Summary

Daisy arrives in modern England for a visit with her cousins shortly before terrorists take control of the country. When her Aunt Penn cannot return home from a peace conference, Daisy and her four cousins must find a way to survive on their own strengths. Through deprivation, division, and the horrors of war Daisy experiences dramatic personal growth.




Critical Analysis

Rosoff explores several contemporary issues in this intriguing novel. How I Live Now effectively deals with the troubled main character's anorexia and her strained relationship with her father. Warfare involving terrorists and the violence described in the novel allow teens to face these very real threats. The sexual relationship between Daisy and her cousin, Edmond, adds a controversial element.

The richly developed plot captures the imagination with its sometimes graphic scenes. One particularly vivid image is the death of Major McEvoy in front of Daisy and Piper, but Daisy's understanding of this event gives insight to her character. Her description of Mrs. McEvoy's reactions are those of a sensitive and perceptive young woman. She is smart, and she is "real". For example, she considers herself a "murderer" because her mother died giving birth. She has a plausible reaction to her stepmother and new sibling. As her relationships with her cousins expand, readers watch her relax her defenses and learn to care for others.

Though I personally found this book too dark for leisure reading, I can think of students that would be attracted to this novel. Daisy's experiences and reactions will appeal to young adults and the raw and powerful emotions they feel. As an adult, I wanted to shelter the characters-- have them find some help, or relief. However, the characters' sufficiency engages the adolescent reader. Daisy and her young cousin Piper's struggle for survival while searching for the boys may lend a sense of power to teens struggling for their own independence.

Book Review Excerpts


Publisher's Weekly: "...Teens may feel that they have experienced a war themselves as they vicariously witness Daisy's worst nightmares. Like the heroine, readers will emerge from the rubble much shaken, a little wiser and with perhaps a greater sense of humanity."


School Library Journal: "...Though the novel has disturbing elements, Rosoff handles the harshness of war and the taboo of incest with honest introspection. This Printz award winner is a good choice for book discussions as it considers the disruption of war both physically and emotionally and should be on every high school and public library shelf."

Connections

Other coming of age novels by this author:

Rosoff, Meg. What I Was. ISBN-13: 978-0670018444

Rosoff, Meg. Just In Case. ISBN-13: 978-0452289376

Historical Fiction: THE ART OF KEEPING COOL

Bibliography


Lisle, Janet Taylor. 2000. The Art of Keeping Cool. New York, NY: Atheneum Books for Young Readers. ISBN 0-689-83787-9


Plot Summary


In The Art of Keeping Cool, Lisle presents World War II through the story of a thirteen-year old American boy. After his father volunteers to fly for the Royal Air Force, Robert's mother moves the family from their Midwestern farm to the town of his paternal grandparents. The community anxiously follows the war both in Europe, and as it touches Maine's shores through submarine action and the implementation of a Naval gun station. Robert must also grapple with the unrest he discovers within his new family. His cousin Elliot's friendship with a displaced German artist forces Robert to confront his family's past, his relationship with Elliot, and his own place in a nation embroiled in conflict.



Critical Analysis

The reactions of Lisle's character, Robert, are age and era appropriate. Along with the very real anxiety of the time, she presents the interest a young boy would feel in the military trappings of the time, especially a boy with a pilot father. His feeling for his father is portrayed with compassion and understanding.

A nation at war is a nation with fear. Lisle conveys the urgency of that feeling through the plot line concerning Able Hoffman. As a German refugee, Abel is viewed with deep suspicion by the townspeople. His tragic end highlights the consequences conflict has on even the innocent, and his experiences lend authenticity to the account. Abel's story will promote the interest of young readers into the conditions of Nazi Germany.

Readers will want to delve into the family's mysteries. Why haven't Robert and his sister ever met his grandparents? Why do Uncle Jake and Aunt Nan submit so completely to Grandpa? Has Robert's mother told his father where they are? The shocking answer reveals just how tangled family relationships can become. Though the time period differs, modern students can relate to the struggles between family members.

Review Excerpts

The New York Times Book Review: "Told from the vantage point of the adult Robert (hence, perhaps, the contemporary-sounding title), this well-written and atmospheric story will evoke strong reactions from its readers."

The Horn Book: "A brilliantly conceived, multi-layered novel explores the tensions within a family against a backdrop of the wider conflicts of World War II. . . . Lisle develops an unforgettable cast of characters placed against a fully realized setting. Engrossing, challenging, and well paced, the novel holds up a mirror to society--for those who dare to look."

Connections

The American Airpower Heritage Museum, located in Midland, Texas, focuses on the vital role aircraft played in World War II. One exhibit gives an excellent look into life on the home front from a young family's perspective. For a virtual tour with a short history and audio clips please visit http://www.airpowermuseum.org/index.php.

Make games, crafts and food from this era:

King, David C. and Cheryl Kirk Noll. World War II Days: Discover the Past with Exciting Projects, Games, Activities, and Recipes. ISBN-13: 978-0471371014

Non-fiction books concerning WWII:

Panchyk, Richard. World War II for Kids: A History with 21 Activities. ISBN-13: 978-1556524554

Adams, Simon. World War II (DK Eyewitness Books) ISBN-13: 978-0756630089

Historical Fiction: MATILDA BONE

Bibliography

Cushman, Karen. 2000. Matilda Bone. New York, NY: Clarion. ISBN 0-395-88156-0.


Plot Summary

Orphaned Matilda spent her young life on a manor under the tutelage of Father Leufredus learning Latin and religious doctrine until she became a bonesetter's apprentice. Red Peg, with her rough manners, brutal job and unreasonable expectations, shocks and dismays Matilda. Now she must find her place in the tough and bewildering world of Blood and Bone Alley as well as her way into a new life that challenges all her beliefs.

Critical Analysis

Medieval historical fiction makes the reader grateful for indoor plumbing and modern dentistry as well as penicillin. Students who visit the doctor regularly and enjoy the wellness of our society will begin to appreciate the advances of modern medicine. Along with a look at medicine, Cushman provides a peek into the difficulties of everyday medieval life and the formality of the Christian religion. A brief author's note offers some background into the medical practices at the time and lists the resources she utilized.

Matilda's subconscious search for friendship and belonging draws readers into her world. Children may not have to visit the market each day for fresh eel, but they do feel the need to care for others and to be loved. Matilda's prayers (and the saint's answers) add a touch of humor. The dialog and details present an atmosphere of medieval life without overwhelming the reader. Cushman creates supporting characters that appeal to the reader and, eventually, to Matilda herself.

Review Excerpts

The Horn Book: "Matilda's saintliness wears thin on the reader; one is eager for her to embrace the uncertain, questioning world. . . . A compelling afterword acquaints readers with the arcane medicine of her day."

Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books: "Cushman has a sure hand with the details of her early English world; the visceral aspects of low-tech town living and the bustle of urban life are well displayed here..."

Connections

Books for background information or historical extension:

DK Publishing. Medieval Life (DK Eyewitness Books). ISBN-13: 978-0756607050


Hart, Avery and Paul Mantell. Knights & Castles: 50 Hands-On Activities to Experience the Middle Ages. ISBN-13: 978-1885593177


Students can contrast our high-tech world with Matilda's low-tech environment. How well would you live in Medieval England? Would you miss your bathtub or your IPod more?


MacDonald, Fiona and David Salariya. How Would You Survive in the Middle Ages? ISBN-13: 978-0531153062

Historical Fiction: A JAR OF DREAMS

Bibliography

Uchida, Yoshiko. 1981. A Jar of Dreams. New York, NY: Macmillan. ISBN- 0-689-50210-9.


Plot Summary

In A Jar of Dreams, the financial hardships of the Great Depression are exacerbated for Rinko and her family by the prejudice Japanese Americans faced at the time. Her father's business is failing, and the laundry service her mother begins in order to support the family draws threats from an existing laundry. The anxiety felt within the family heightens when her older brother defies his father's educational plans. Rinko desperately wants to escape all that makes her "different". When her traditional aunt visits from Japan, Rinko begins to take pride in her family and learns that self-worth matters more than the view of others.

Critical Analysis

Uchida masterfully conveys the tension between Japanese Americans and some members of the Anglo community in California. Most children will relate to feeling different from their peers and identify with Rinko's feelings of embarrassment over her family, their food, and her appearance. Some may have even experienced the taunting or exclusion she goes through at school.

Uchida explores prejudice in the more adult contexts as well. Beginning with chapter seven, I found myself gripping the book tightly, nervous for the physical safety of the Tsujimura family. The author presents the very real difficulties the Japanese American community faced during this time period through a believable string of events: taunting, threating letters, and even the death of the family dog.


Perhaps the most compelling reason to read A Jar of Dreams comes from the characters. Readers will find Uchida's protagonist likable and believable. Rinko's dialog with her brother's and friends, as well as internally, seems authentic and well rounded. Her Aunt Waka, who not only stays true to herself, but is able to pass courage on to those around, gives readers much to admire. She has such an impact on Rinko's family, that Rinko describes her life as "before and after Aunt Waka". The novel leaves the reader with hope for the Tsujimuras' dreams and pleasure in Rinko's new confidence.


Review Excerpt


The Horn Book. "An ingenious simplicity and grace mark the first-person telling of the story of eleven-year-old Rinko and her Japanese family in Berkeley, California. Times are hard for everyone in 1935, but being Japanese is for Rinko an added burden. . . . Compared with the many worldly-wise contemporary book heroines, Rinko in her guilelessness is genuine and refreshing, and her worries and concerns seem wholly natural, honest and convincing".

Connections



Uchida has written extensively about Japanse American hardships in the time period surrounding World War II. More of her historical fiction includes:



Uchida, Yoshiko. The Bracelet. ISBN-13: 978-0698113909

Uchida, Yoshiko. Journey Home. ISBN-13: 978-0689716416


The author survived internment camp as a child. Her autobiography provides students with a fascinating personal connection to the time period and her writing.



Uchida, Yoshiko. The Invisible Thread: An Autobiography. ISBN-13: 978-0688137038

Nonfiction/Biography: FRANKLIN DELANO ROOSEVELT

Bibliography





Freedman, Russell. 1990. Franklin Delano Roosevelt. New York, NY: Houghton Mifflin. ISBN 0-89919-379-X





Summary

In ten chapters, Freedman provides an overview of the life or Franklin Delano Roosevelt from childhood and schoolroom to politics and the White House. The biography contains pictures on nearly every page, anecdotes from those who knew the president, and background historical information. Each chapter opens with a quote from Roosevelt, or one concerning him by one of his contemporaries. The author includes a short chapter of museums and sites to visit and a photo album section. For interested readers, Freedman offers more titles covering specific topics and times of his life.

Critical Analysis

Writing a biography concerning a president that is intended for children is surely a daunting task. The author must include enough background history to present an understandable context for the actions of the subject, without writing a history text book. Russell Freedman has done just that in his biography, Franklin Delano Roosevelt. He includes details of the childhood and youth of Roosevelt which will interest children: long blond curls and a dog named Monk make the grownup President Roosevelt a "real" person. Freedman explains the causes, reactions, and desperation of the Great Depression succinctly. He presents the complicated chain of events leading to World War II with clarity. This book provides an excellent introduction to Roosevelt and his era.

Freedman presents a balanced picture of Roosevelt. He gives him the political credit due him as "The Man Who Changed America" without discounting personal triumphs, for example, refusing to allow polio to thwart him. Freedman does not shy away from his mistakes--his extra-marital affair or his court-packing attempt. The author presents material about Eleanor, a historical figure in her own right, that complements the events of her husband's life.

The reader will gain great insight into the period by observing the clothing, people, and surroundings presented in the many black and white photos throughout each chapter. Even the layout and typeface has the feel of Art Deco. I enjoyed these glimpses into the life of Roosevelt and his family.

Review Excerpts

Booklist: "'The man who could not walk became the leader of a country paralyzed by uncertainty and despair'--that's the inherent drama in Freedman's immensely enjoyable photo biography. . . . As in his Newbery Award-winning photo biography, Lincoln {BRD 1988}, Freedman is candid about the president's failures and about criticism and controversy..."

Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books:"{This book is} profusely illustrated with photographs. . . . An impressive list of sources attests to Freedman's research; the index has been carefully compiled; a list of places to visit is included. The book should be of interest to adult as well as young adult students of history, and it gives with remarkable clarity assessments of such major events as World War II, the Great Depression, the New Deal, and the changes in social services established during Roosevelt's long tenure in the White House."

Connections



Students can take a virtual field trip to the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum. The website offers biographical material, time lines, puzzles, teacher curriculum, and a even a copy of Roosevelt's report card! http://www.fdrlibrary.marist.edu/educat33.html

Presidential picture books:

Piven, Hanoch. What Presidents are Made Of. ISBN-13: 978-0689868801

Harness, Cheryl. Ghosts of the White House. ISBN-13: 978-0689848926