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Bullying
Bullying in schools has been a subject of major discussion in magazine and newspaper articles and most recently a topic at the 2006 ALAN Conference. Participants included Patrick Jones, Nancy Garden and Julie Ann Peters. The panel chair Christie Jo "C.J. Bott set the tone when she introduced the topic. Bullying can be defined a repeated exposure over time to the adverse actions of an individual. She stressed that it is just as important to work with the bullies as those who are bullied and she cited a statistic that 20 to 25% of current students are bullies.
Those who attended the session also learned that there are two types of bullying-the direct in your face sort and the indirect, where the victim is not sure who the bully is, which makes the victim even more fearful. She gave an illustration of pictures taken with a cell phone and then broadcast via the Internet with kids being named the fattest, nerdiest, etc. in their class or school. Totally humiliating for any tween or teen.
Nancy Garden pointed out that most bullying takes place when kids are not being observed by adults, and that the victims of bullying often skip school, become depressed or suicidal and some even become bullies themselves. Schools need a firm anti-bullying policy that is enforced. Bullies often need professional counseling. Bystanders and the victim need protection and victims should never be made to feel that the bullying action is due to something that he or she may have done. Nancy stressed the need for clubs, organizations, books and more to help kids understand and accept differences-be they sexual, physical or otherwise. She noted that the state of Maine seems to have taken the issue quite seriously and its web site has some very useful information http://www.state.me.us/education/bullyingprevention/management.htm
Patrick Jones talked about the different types of teachers and how they reacted in his book Nailed. He noted that Nails are often unusual kids and Hammers are usually jocks. He urges a challenge to the Hammers and support for the Nails. Julie Ann Peters talked about the mail that she gets and how brutal life is for some of those kids who have sexual differences. Young kids need role models, and they need to know that they can trust adults. Books can help young people when they feel isolated and alone, because they show that they really are not alone.
The following is a selection of books recently published which all address to some degree the issues the panel raised.
Reviews
The Astonishing Adventures of Fanboy & Goth Girl
Barry Lyga.
Fanboy's life consists of being abused in gym class every day, tortured by the very sight of a gorgeous girl named Dina, fighting with his mother and the stepfacist--stepfather, and working on a graphic novel that he hopes to show his idol, Brian Michael Bendis. Fanboy's only friend is Cal, who shares Fanboy's interest in comics and graphic novels but is also a jock. The only thing that keeps Fanboy sane is a bullet that he carries with him every day. One day Fanboy is e-mailed a picture of him being hit in gym class by "Promethea387" and asking "Why do you let them hit you?" This leads Fanboy to meeting Kyra, otherwise known as Goth Girl. The two of them begin a rather intense on-and-off friendship colored by their own issues and their feelings towards each other. Barry Lyga perfectly captures teen angst and ironic humor in this gritty portrayal of the life of a teenage geek. Fanboy's voice manages to be truly original and, at the same time, speaks to everyone who ever felt like a geek, even for a moment. 2006, Houghton Mifflin, $16.95. Ages 14 up. Reviewer: Amie Rose Rotruck (Children's Literature).
Best Books:
Book Sense Children's Picks, Fall 2006; American Booksellers Association; United States
Top 10 Art Books for Youth, 2006; American Library Association-Booklist; United States
ISBN: 0-618-72392-7
Between Mom and Jo
Julie Anne Peters
Having two moms has never bothered Nick. While he encounters some teasing at school and some prejudice from teachers and his mom's parents, he enjoys a happy life with his mom and her partner Jo. By the time Nick reaches his teens, his parents have separated under very unhappy circumstances. Jo moves out and Nick's relationship with his mom deteriorates rapidly. Jo has always been the fun mom, the mom with whom Nick really relates--yet now his mom Erin refuses to let him see her. Nick and his mom's disagreements become more and more violent, until intervention from an unlikely source helps Nick and his two moms find peace. Peters tackles difficult subjects with such ease that one forgets that books portraying this type of family situation are relatively new. This is not a book written to serve any political agenda or prove any point but rather to show three very real people with very real problems. From flashes of pure joy to the depths of despair as only a teenager can experience, Peters shows the full spectrum of Nick's life with his parents. 2006, Little Brown and Company, $16.99. Ages 12 up. Reviewer: Amie Rose Rotruck (Children's Literature).
Best Books:
School Library Journal Book Review Stars, April 2006; Cahners; United States
ISBN: 0-316-01468-0
The Bully in the Book and in the Classroom
C.J. Bott.
This excellent source will help teachers and librarians build safer and more supportive classrooms and communities. Opening chapters emphasize that adults can stop bullies while empowering the victims and witnesses. Bott, an English teacher for thirty years and an initiator of antidiscrimination pilot programs, says start small, with diverse involvement and help from community agencies. But she also encourages classroom teachers to use literature as a starting point for discussion. Chapters three through six provide appropriate titles for K-12 students. A short introduction explains the most likely bullying pattern in a particular age group. Each chapter highlights eight to ten books with extensive, detailed summaries, engaging activities, discussion topics, and often personally challenging "Quotes for Reader Response." Middle school featured titles include Tangerine (Harcourt, 1997/VOYA August 1997) and Stargirl (Random House, 2000/VOYA October 2000). Among the junior/senior high selections are Speak (Farrar Straus Giroux, 1999/VOYA December 1999), and Alt Ed (G. P. Putnam's, 2003/VOYA April 2003). An extensive annotated bibliography with additional up-to-date sources concludes each literature chapter. Chapter seven is an annotated bibliography of recent professional literature providing discussion, advice, and activities. Six Internet sites have information for both students and adults, but adults will want to screen each one before recommending it for student use. Although marketed primarily to teachers and librarians, this wonderful reference is a must-have for any professional working with families and young people. 2004, Scarecrow Press, 185p.; Index. Illus. Biblio., $30 pb. Ages adult professional. Reviewer: Lucy Schall (VOYA, December 2004 (Vol. 27, No. 5)).
Best Books:
Middle and Junior High School Library Catalog 2006 Supplement to the Ninth Edition, 2006; H.W Wilson Company; United States
ISBN: 0-81085-048-6
Crushed
Laura McNeal and Tom McNeal
Audrey Reed and her two best friends recently began public high school after many years at a small, private school where academics mattered more than popularity. Audrey gets through the days by focusing on her school work and trying to attract as little notice as possible, but despite her best efforts she attracts the attention of the class bully, Theo Driggs, the kind-of-creepy Clyde Mumsford, and the gorgeous new boy, Wickham Hill. Audrey is flattered when Wickham asks her out, and they soon become a couple. But all is not what it seems: Everyone at Jemison High seems to have a secret, including Wickham, Clyde, and Audrey's best friend Lea. To top it off, someone is creating the Yellow Sheet, which spreads rumors about everyone, including the teachers. Eventually, Audrey's and Wickham's relationship hits the skids when Audrey's father loses his job and their house, and Audrey hits her emotional bottom when she discovers that Wickham has been cheating on her with her best friend Lea. To make matters worse, Audrey is being harassed by the thug Theo and feels like she is being stalked by Clyde, who has big problems of his own. It is hard to imagine all of this drama ending easily or well, but by the end of the book, Wickham's secrets are revealed, Audrey finds a new boyfriend, Clyde is a happier and apparently more appealing guy, and Theo Driggs does something unexpectedly decent. The unlikely ending, in fact, is the title's weakness. The novel offers Audrey's, Clyde's, and Wickham's perspectives, so the reader gets to know and care about each, but the problem with this technique is that the characters' actions at the end do not ring true. Throughout the novel Audrey has been repulsed by Clyde but suddenly has a change of heart and finds his stalking endearing rather than frightening. Clyde has been cripplingly shy throughout the book but suddenly, miraculously becomes comfortable and at ease around the girl he has been obsessed with. Of the three main characters, only Wickham stays true to character--his plan to run away with wealthy Lea makes perfect, if sad, sense. Middle school readers will enjoy this book as long as they do not have to think too much about it, but most high schoolers will see through the happy ending. 2006, Alfred A. Knopf, $15.95. Ages 12 up. Reviewer: Lauri Berkenkamp (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-375-83105-3
ISBN: 0-375-93105-8
Define Normal: A Novel
Julie Anne Peters.
When Straight 'A' student Antonia Dillon agreed to become a peer counselor at Oberon Middle School, she expected to assist fellow students with their usual problems--boy trouble, school, parents, more boy trouble. Antonia certainly didn't expect to be stuck counseling Jasmine "Jazz" Luther, a girl with a reputation as a punker, druggie, and gang-banger. It's not as if Antonia didn't have enough to worry about in her own home, what with an absent father, two younger brothers, and a mother who stays in bed for most of each day, too depressed to venture outdoors. Against all odds, Antonia and Jazz strike up an improbable friendship. Antonia is amazed to learn that Jazz lives in a mansion and has a passion for playing classical piano. When Antonia's mother breaks down completely and her family is on the verge of being shattered, roles are reversed and it is Jazz who acts as counselor to Antonia. Toward the end of this fast and highly readable novel, both girls are on the brink of an enduring friendship, and each has learned a valuable lesson in tolerance. 2000, Little Brown, $14.95. Ages 10 to 14. Reviewer: Christopher Moning (Children's Literature).
Best Books:
Best Books for Young Adults, 2001; American Library Association-YALSA; United States
Middle and Junior High School Library Catalog, Ninth Edition, 2005; H.W. Wilson; United States
Middle And Junior High School Library Catalog, Supplement to the Eighth Edition, 2001; H.W. Wilson; United States
Quick Picks for Reluctant Young Adult Readers, 2001; American Library Association-YALSA; United States
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
Black-Eyed Susan Book Award Winner 2003 Grades 6-9 Maryland
California Young Reader Medal Winner 2003 Young Adult California
Sequoyah Book Award Winner 2003 Young Adult Oklahoma
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
Black-Eyed Susan Book Award, 2002-2003; Nominee; Grades 6 - 9; Maryland
California Young Reader Medal, 2003; Nominee; Young Adult; California
Iowa Teen Award, 2002-2003; Nominee; Iowa
Lone Star Reading List, 2002-2003; Texas
Sequoyah Book Award, 2003; Nominee; Young Adult; Oklahoma
Volunteer State Book Award, 2004-2005; Nominee; Young Adult; Tennessee
ISBN: 0-316-70631-0
Endgame
Nancy Garden.
What causes a kid to bring a gun to school and shoot his classmates? The answer to this difficult question is explored in the story of Gray Wilton. Through first person narrative, the reader comes to know Gray, a short, pimply-faced kid who loves drums, archery, and his dog Barker. The story opens at a juvenile detention center and Gray explains to his attorney how it all happened. When Gray's family relocated to a new neighborhood, he was hoping it would be a fresh start. Gray was determined that Greenford High would be a new beginning for him. Instead, Gray is shadowed by his older, favored brother at home, and harassed at school. He quickly becomes a target as he was at his former school and is bullied relentlessly by older football players. Gray's only friend is tormented alongside him. Although a few students and his brother urge him to tell an adult, Gray's experience has led him to believe that the bullying will only get worse if he tells. Feeling unsupported at home or school, Gray graduates from carrying a knife in his sock to bringing his dad's gun to school. The results are devastating, and the reader will feel true sympathy for the characters who are caught in the line of fire, and for Gray. 2006, Harcourt, $17.00. Ages 13 to 17. Reviewer: Mary Loftus (Children's Literature).
Best Books:
School Library Journal Book Review Stars, May 2006; Cahners; United States
ISBN: 0-15-205416-2
Far from Xanadu
Julie Anne Peters
In this sensitively written book about unrequited love, the main character, Mike,--a lesbian--has much to deal with. Her father committed suicide two years ago and she still struggles with love, resentment, disappointment, and all of the feelings surrounding such a loss. Her mother has been perpetually depressed and non-communicative, probably disliking Mike because she was her father's favorite. Her brother is a typical loser, or so it seems until the end of the book. Finally, she is desperately attracted to Xanadu, the new "bad" girl in town and hopes that Xanadu might be sexually attracted to her, especially when Xanadu seems to send mixed messages. Any teen will be able to identify with the feeling of falling for someone who, while very friendly, does not seem to be romantically inclined. Fortunately, Mike has the support of her small town and her best friend, Jamie, who is openly gay and is equally accepted by the town. Mike also has her father's skills as a plumber and a very reasonable dream of resurrecting the family business. And she is a softball star and could well get a scholarship to college, a step she is considering even though she ultimately wants to return to her home. Mike grows to accept who she is, who her family is, and who Xanadu is, and to appreciate them all for what they have taught her about herself. By the author of Luna, this book tackles a variety of difficult subjects with appeal and grace. 2005, Little Brown and Company, $16.99. Ages 14 up. Reviewer: Kathryn Erskine (Children's Literature).
Best Books:
Choices, 2006; Cooperative Children's Book Center; United States
Top 10 Romance Fiction for Youth, 2005; American Library Association-Booklist; United States
ISBN: 0-316-15881-X
The Great Ant Adventure
Adapted by Quinton B. Lee
The issue of bullying is a serious one, and this story takes the approach of "walking a mile in my shoes" to find out what it is like on the other end. In this case, a young boy enjoys stomping ants. All of the ants live in fear of him until, through a magical potion, he is reduced to their size. Once he appreciates their lifestyle, he realizes that he must stop the exterminator that he previously called. The fact that a young boy could schedule an insect exterminator seems to be a bit of a stretch. The rest of the adventure relates to his and his ant pals escapades to reach the phone and stop the impending destruction of the ants. The boy is successful and is returned back to his normal size. The book should appeal to those who enjoyed the film, as the illustrations appear to be taken directly from it. Part of "The Ant Bully" series. 2006, Scholastic, $3.99. Ages 4 to 7. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-439-85680-9
Holly's Secret
Nancy Garden.
When her family moves from New York City to rural Massachusetts, Holly Lavender-Jones seizes the opportunity to reinvent herself. The life-style of her two moms - a loving gay couple - has become a source of embarrassment to her and hurtful taunting at summer camp. She becomes "Yvette" a pseudo-sophisticate with curls and frills. Trying to be understanding, her moms agree to the plan, at least in theory and in public. Holly's attempts to fit in with the popular crowd, whose scorn for fags and dykes causes her anguish, is tougher than she expects. Of course the trouble with lying is that one must be clever to keep all the untruths and twisted facts straight. Therein lies Holly's problem. As one might guess, honesty wins out and Holly discovers that her true friends care very little for her parents' sexual orientation. Written with humor and sensitivity, this reassuring novel explores relationships within alternative families and the stereotypes that surround them. While the author's agenda and message are obvious, her story will help dispel myths and could lead to open, honest dialogue. 2000, Farrar, $16.00. Ages 12 to 14. Reviewer: Beverley Fahey (Children's Literature).
Best Books:
Adventuring with Books: A Booklist for Pre-K-Grade 6 13th Edition, 2002; National Council of Teachers of English; United States
ISBN: 0-374-33273-8
Horns and Wrinkles
Joseph Helgerson
Illustrations by Nicoletta Ceccoli
Holding her over the Mississippi River in flood, Claire's bullying cousin Duke drops her right into the rowboat of an elderly lady who turns out to be a blue-winged fairy, just the companion to have when your family is turned to stone and your cousin is made into a rhinoceros by the neighboring trolls. This cheerful magical adventure features a spunky pre-teen heroine with worries of her own. Perhaps the reason she is unlike the rest of her family is that she's really a troll, turned into a human being through a curse. Through dealing with her cousin she's learned a thing or two about bullies. This helps her stand up both to the river trolls who capture her and to the Great Rock Troll herself, Bodacious Deepthink, who has the stone feather that will release her family and others who came in contact with them in their petrified form. The humor and strong sense of place, a small area along the Minnesota/Wisconsin border where magic still exists, add to the appeal. Short chapters may help middle-grade readers who might find the length of this otherwise very accessible read daunting. Surreal illustrations by the noted Italian illustrator Nicoletta Ceccoli begin each chapter, and the book opens with a list of characters and map. 2006, Houghton Mifflin, Ages 8 to 12, $16.00. Reviewer: Kathleen Isaacs (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-618-61679-9
ISBN: 978-0-618-61679-4
How the Moon Regained Her Shape
Janet Ruth Helle
Illustrated by Ben Hodson
This simply written book is an excellent example of how to help children understand and overcome bullying. Self-esteem is positively addressed in a strong, delightful tale. When the sun bullies the moon until the moon does not feel good about herself and becomes very small, it is time for action. Fortunately, a comet helps her. Through a visit to earth, the moon learns how an artist, some rabbits, and a hundred women depend on her light and want her to return to fullness. At the end of this earthly visit, the moon has regained her pride and sets out to shine again. However, from that point forward, she continues to shrink to smallness when she is insulted and then back to fullness when she regains her strength. This unique way to explain moon phases has long been part of Native American folklore. Fantastic artwork covers the pages with layered paper illustrations dressed in Native American design and colors. Endpapers contain extra information about moon phases and observations. Teachers and readers can check Sylvan Dell's website for kid-friendly astronomy sites that extend the material in this book. The book is sure to be checked out many times, so make it a part of the elementary classrooms and libraries. 2006, Sylvan Dell Publishing, $15.95. Ages 6 to 10. Reviewer: Nancy Garhan Attebury (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-9764943-4-5
Just Kidding
Trudy Ludwig
Illustrations by Adam Gustavson
With all that has been appearing in the papers about incidents where kids have gone into schools and killed and injured innocent people, bullying in any form must be addressed. Ludwig wrote an earlier book, My Secret Bully--now the focus is on a form of bullying that seems to be less of a problem but really is not. Making jokes about people to make them feel bad and damage their self-esteem is harmful. In this book kids are given some ways to deal with the issue, but the bottom line is that it will take adult interventions--teachers, parents, and counselors. Bullies need to know that their behavior will not be tolerated and that there will be consequences. A book like this should be in every school and public library. It can help kids realize that if they are the victims of bullies, there are ways to get help. Reporting a bully is not a sign of weakness because the bully truly needs help. 2006, Tricycle Press, $15.95. Ages 5 to 10. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-1-58246-163-2
ISBN: 1-58246-163-5
The Last Laugh
Jose Aruego and Ariane Dewey
This story dedicated "to bullies everywhere" needs for its text only the menacing "Hiss!" of the snake and his satisfied "Hee...Hee..." when he has frightened a bird, a gopher, a possum and her babies. A duck adds "Quack!" as it is swallowed. That is enough, however, to summon a swarm of ducky friends, while the first duck escapes. As the snake is busy watching all the ducks fly away he is suddenly startled by a loud "Quack!" from the bird, who now has his turn to say "Hee...Hee..." The laughs overflow onto the back endpapers (as the "Hiss" did on the front) as the duck delights in finding that turnabout is fair play. Pen-and-ink with gouache create the characters who act out their roles of bully and bullied in framed sequences of comic exaggeration. When the ducks gather the frames become whole pages filled with them and their quacking, gradually diminishing in size as they fly off in formation, leaving the solitary fowl to fill his page with his quack. Satisfying visual fun. 2006, Dial Books for Young Readers/Penguin, $12.99. Ages 3 to 6. Reviewer: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-8037-3093-4
Luna: A Novel
Julie Anne Peters.
Liam and Regan are brother and sister and they care for and protect one another. In fact, the two are so close that only fifteen-year-old Regan knows Liam's secret--he is trans-gender, meaning he wants to be a girl. Regan's love is unconditional but not everyone else is as accepting, so Liam only dresses in Regan's clothing and takes on the name Luna at night. However, Liam is tired of hiding and wants to come out to his family as Luna ASAP and the novel follows the changing relationship between the two siblings. The story is written in Regan's voice, which is astute on the author's part because it helps draw in readers who may have difficulty relating to Liam's plight. The story deftly portrays the experience of trans-gender teenagers and both Regan and Liam are engaging characters. While those struggling with sexual identity may find this novel particularly resonant, all readers will be able to relate to Liam and Regan's desires for "normalcy" and self-acceptance. 2004, Megan Tingley Books/Little Brown and Company, $16.95. Ages 13 to 16. Reviewer: Rihoko Ueno (Children's Literature).
Best Books:
Best Books for Young Adults, 2005; American Library Association YALSA; United States
The Children's Literature Choice List, 2005; Children's Literature; United States
Choices, 2005; Cooperative Children's Book Center
Kirkus Book Review Stars, April 1, 2004; United States
Senior High School Library Catalog, Sixteenth Edition, 2005 Supplement, 2005; H.W. Wilson; United States
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
Colorado Book Awards Winner 2005 Young Adult Literature Colorado
Lambda Literary Awards Finalist 2004 Children's/Young Adults United States
National Book Awards Nominee 2004 Young People's Literature United States
Original Voices Award Winner 2004 Intermediate/Young Adult United States
Stonewall Award Honor Book 2005 United States
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
Garden State Teen Book Award, 2007; Nominee; Fiction Grades 9-12; New Jersey
Gateway Readers Award, 2006-2007; Nominee; Grades 9-12; United States
Green Mountain Book Award, 2006-2007; Master List; Grades 9-12; Vermont
Rhode Island Teen Book Award, 2006; Nominee; High School Students; Rhode Island
Tayshas High School Reading List, 2005-2006; Reading List; High School Level; Texas
Young Adult Reading Program, 2006; United States
ISBN: 0-316-73369-5
Molly's Family
Nancy Garden
Pictures by Sharon Wooding.
As her kindergarten class prepares for "Open School Night," Molly draws a picture of her family to be among those decorating the classroom walls. Tommy scoffs at Molly's picture, "That's not a family." Molly insists it is her family and Tommy asks, "Where's your daddy." Molly doesn't have a daddy. She has drawn a picture showing Mommy, Mama Lu and her dog, Sam. This leads to a discussion about the different kinds of families. Stephan does not have a daddy either and Adam has only a dad. But the children still insist that Molly cannot have two mommies. Her teacher, Mrs. Marston, looks at the picture and agrees with Molly that she certainly can have two mommies. Nonetheless, Molly is hesitant to have her picture hanging on the wall. She talks to her mommies and Mrs. Marston and thinks some more about the different kinds of families before deciding to have her picture displayed on Open School Night and, of course, everyone has a wonderful time. Kids are so sensitive about being laughed at and it's admirable that this story discourages such behavior and offers comfort to those children who may have a different kind of family. However, the text could be livelier and such depth of discussion would seem to be beyond the abilities of kindergarteners. 2004, Farrar Straus Giroux, $16.00. Ages 4 to 6. Reviewer: Carolyn Mott Ford (Children's Literature).
Best Books:
Capitol Choices, 2005; The Capitol Choices Committee; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, Supplement, 2005; H. W. Wilson; United States
ISBN: 0-374-35002-7
Nailed
Patrick Jones.
In this unflinching look at the meaning of conformity, sixteen-year-old Bret Hendricks enters his junior year of high school misunderstood by his car-wash employee father for wearing Goodwill clothes and a tinted ponytail, and for preferring theater to understanding the inside of a car engine. Bret also does not fit into the "in" crowd at school. His nemesis, all-American jock Bill Hitchings--who had been his friend in elementary school before sports separated them--sets the tone for the new school year when he calls Bret "freak faggot" in first period. Bret tries to persevere, not wanting to believe his father's saying that "the nail that sticks out farthest gets hammered hardest." He likes acting, singing in his band with his close friends Alex and Sean, and spending time with his girlfriend, Kylee. Trouble still manages to find Bret--earning him a suspension the second week of classes and again during Homecoming when he and his friends launch their alternative live music in the parking lot as "Radio-Free Flint." A speech he writes for forensics, in which he argues that the two teen killers at Columbine were also victims, nearly sends him over the school's three-strikes limit. He gets into a fight with Sean and later finds him making love to Kylee. He learns the extent of Kylee's betrayal through her journal. Tensions at school finally erupt into violence, setting off a chain of events that lands Bret in the hospital when he stands up for what he thinks is right. Bret reconciles with his father and, thanks to his father's actions and the support of a sympathetic teacher, he gets to finish out his senior year at school. 2006, Walker & Company, $16.95. Ages 12 up. Reviewer: Valerie O. Patterson (Children's Literature).
Best Books:
Teens' Top Ten List, 2006; American Library Association-YALSA; Nominee; United States
ISBN: 978-0-8027-8077-5
ISBN: 0-8027-8077-6
Poison Ivy
Amy Goldman Koss
The high school American Government teacher wants to have a mock trial in class with her students. No one wants to volunteer to be part of it. Nevertheless, one event leads to another and the trial concerning "Poison" Ivy and those that bully her begins. The author has a unique writing style and lets the reader see the firsthand account of each main character in the book by using his or her own words to tell the story. Read how each teen does not want to be part of this trial and voices his opinion about what is going on. Find out what the main character, Ivy, learns about her classmates and teacher. See how each person has their own flaws and how they feel about themselves and their ability in the trial. Read about a scheme that is going on with one of the characters so she can look good in the end. Through the plotting and conspiring, the readers will see if true justice prevails in the end. This attention-grabbing book will keep the reader turning the pages until the end. Children will take pleasure in reading about Ivy and the other characters. They will find that these characters may represent some of their classmates in their own school. 2006, Deborah Brodie Book/Roaring Book Press, $16.95. Ages 12 to 17. Reviewer: Cathi I. White (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 978-1-59643-118-8
ISBN: 1-59643-118-0
Preventing Bullying: Helping Kids form Positive Relationships
M Meline Kevorkian
The brightly colored graphics on the inviting cover of this book markets it for those working with younger children, the right age group to talk about forming positive relationships. There is some practical wisdom in this little book, particularly in Chapter Five, which encourages parents to empower their children to deal with bullies themselves. Helping youth to learn strategies builds their confidence to handle such confrontations with bullies and that is a very valuable tool in life. There are, of course, situations that call for adult involvement and Kevorkian helps parents and teachers to take those steps. Some of the value in this book, however, is lost in poor structure and basically a professional stream-of-consciousness. The book is an advanced rough draft and needs the help of an editor to bring it into focus. It enters a world of competition on the hot topic of bullying, which the author has not tapped into. In the introduction, Kevorkian says that she will share the eight etiquette rules that help children form relationships, a list that this reviewer never found. There are no source notes or references given and no listing of recommended reading. Kevorkian might have the best interests of youth at heart, but she provides no documentation that she has read the growing abundance of research, and some of her statements of truth are now considered myths. 2006, Rowman & Littlefield Education, 96p., $40 and $12.95 pb. Ages adult professional. Reviewer: C. J. Bott (VOYA, October 2006 (Vol. 29, No. 4)).
ISBN: 978-1-57886-483-6
ISBN: 1-57886483-6
ISBN: 978-1-57886-484-3
ISBN: 1-57886-484-4
Raiders Night
Robert Lipsyte.
Former sports journalist and YA author Lipsyte tackles the dangers of hazing and steroids in this raw and thought-provoking tale of a high school football star faced with some tough choices. The Raiders have a shot at the state title, and Matt, co-captain of the team, is expected to do whatever it takes to achieve that goal. That includes shots of "juice" to make him stronger, but does it include overlooking what happens at football camp, when Chris, a new teammate, is raped with a bat by Matt's out-of-control co-captain? Everyone, even Matt's tough-guy father, wants the incident to be swept under the rug. Then Chris shows up in the locker room with a gun, revenge on his mind. The sports action here is as convincing as the off-field action, which includes Matt's home life with a developmentally disabled brother he protects from his bullying father, lots of partying, a shallow, nasty ex-girlfriend, and an understanding new girlfriend. (The vocabulary is equally realistic; if this were a movie, it would be R-rated.) In an afterword, Lipsyte briefly refers to the values, good and bad, of jock culture and its "dark corners" as well, and provides websites for himself and a sports psychiatrist if readers want to share their own experiences. Category: Hardcover Fiction. KLIATT Codes: S--Recommended for senior high school students. 2006, HarperCollins, 240p., $15.99. Ages 15 to 18. Reviewer: Paula Rohrlick (KLIATT Review, July 2006 (Vol. 40, No. 4)).
Best Books:
Kirkus Book Review Stars, June 1, 2006; United States
Publishers Weekly Book Review Stars, July 24, 2006; Cahners; United States
Top 10 Sports Books for Youth, 2006; American Library Association-Booklist; United States
ISBN: 978-0-06-059946-1
ISBN: 0-06-059946-4
ISBN: 978-0-06-059947-8
ISBN: 0-06-059947-2
Ruby and Bubbles
Rosie Winstead
Ruby wants a best friend! One day she takes a break from her full-time job of selling lemonade, caring for twin dolls (who do not look like twins), and her TV talk show, to go shopping. A yellow bird in the store window catches her eye and a dream comes true. Why not have a bird-day celebration to introduce Bubbles to her so-called friends. Her joy turns to sorrow as the rude name-calling and teasing begins when the bird will not fly. All dolled up like a bird, the determined Ms. Ruby tries measures to teach Bubbles to fly--tapes on feathers, parachutes it from a tree, works out to build its muscles, and introduces it to birds in the sky who happen to be flying. Fortunately, Ruby and the pet follow them where information abounds--the library. There, in a book, she discovers that ostrich and penguins dislike flying, too. The story is charming, but leaves a lot to be desired with its name-calling, free-for-all taunting, and focus on fashion styles for young girls. The petite characters, created using watercolors, pencil, pen, and ink, reflect a trendy teen scene--even the messages inscribed on their shirts are harsh! The story's ending runs "afowl" as the imps are targeted with bird droppings. Tomorrow, they will be back to their old tricks. Fortunately Ruby is strong-willed, but many children under the same circumstances would crumble. Try Teresa Bateman's book The Bully Blockers Club; Lolly resolves bullying with a more creative solution. 2006, Dial Books for Young Readers/Penguin, $15.99. Ages 5 to 8. Reviewer: Barbara Troisi (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-8037-3024-1
Snakes and Ladders
Michael Morpurgo
Ilustrated by Anne Wilson
The main character in this story is Wendy. She lives with her Mom, her Grandpa and his snake Slinky. Grandpa is very close to Wendy and when he has to go to the hospital for hip surgery Wendy is left in charge of Slinky. Wendy is having a hard time in school because of a bully named Simon MacTavish. When her grade 6 class is asked to bring in something interesting for a parent's evening near Christmas, Wendy brings in Slinky. When it is time to show her him to her classmates, all that is left in Slinky's box is his discarded skin. Slinky has disappeared and there is panic in the school. When Slinky is finally located curled around a limb of a nearby tree Wendy climbs up to try to save him but she feels overwhelmed. Both the snake and Wendy are rescued by a fireman named Peter MacTavish - Simon's dad. Fireman MacTavish finds out that Simon has been bullying Wendy. Simon is made to apologize to Wendy. He also brings her a Christmas present from his dad - a game of Snakes and Ladders. This novel presents several issues which are prevalent in today's schools - bullying and single parent families. Both topics are handled forthrightly and effectively. The text is listed as Guided Reading Level N. The colourful illustrations on every page are by Anne Wilson. This novel would be a good purchase for classrooms and school libraries. (Yellow Bananas Series). Category: Fiction Grades 3-6. Thematic Links: Bullying; Families; Snakes' School Stories. Resource Links Rating: G-E (Good/Excellent), Gr. 2-5. 2006, Crabtree Publishing Company, 47p. Illus., Hdbk. $18.36 ea. Ages 7 to 11. Reviewer: Suzanne Finkelstein (Resource Links, October 2006 (Vol. 12, No. 1)).
ISBN: 978-0-7787-0952-7
ISBN: 0-7787-0952-3
ISBN: 978-0-7787-0998-5
ISBN: 0-7787-0998-1
Things change
Patrick Jones
Johanna is dating the one guy about whom she has always dreamed. Paul, a senior with a gorgeous car, cool friends, and a rebel-without-a-cause attitude, is exactly what Johanna has wanted in her straight-laced, parent-controlled world. Their relationship starts out as a "dream come true" for Johanna, but things change. She finds herself trying to cover bruises where Paul has poked her a little too hard or pushed her into something; and long-sleeve shirts become a necessity to cover the "unintentional" damage. Unfortunately for Johanna, the abuse has a higher cost than just some bumps and bruises. After losing all of her friends and distancing herself from her parents, she feels alone in the world and imagines that she is carrying the weight of the abuse without help. Because of this, she clings to Paul and his promise that, "Everything is going to be okay." Through unexpected channels of friendship that arise among Paul's friends, Johanna discovers that she is not alone. She finds the support to be able to do what she needs to do and the hope that things really can change. This book gives insight to young adults about the dangers of physical abuse and the repercussions of being in abusive relationships. It also emphasizes the importance of recognizing abuse and getting out of the situation. It gives voice to a discussion that is difficult to bring up with younger people, and will help facilitate discussion on issues of abuse and the loss of parents. 2004, Walker and Company, $16.95. Ages 12 to 17. Reviewer: Renee Pelton (Children's Literature).
Best Books:
Quick Picks for Reluctant Young Readers, 2005; American Library Association YALSA; United States
Senior High School Library Catalog, Sixteenth Edition, 2005 Supplement, 2005; H.W. Wilson; United States
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
Buckeye Children's Book Award, 2007; Nominee; Teen Twelve; Ohio
Teens' Top Ten List, 2004; Nominee; United States
ISBN: 0-8027-8901-3
The Year they Burned the Books
Nancy Garden.
High school senior Jamie Crawford worked hard to become the editor-in-chief of her school newspaper. When she publishes a controversial editorial supporting condom distribution in schools, her life takes a dramatic turn. It doesn't help that she sees herself as a "Maybe"--maybe gay, maybe straight, maybe somewhere in between--and that's the hardest thing to be. An ultra-conservative group takes over the school board of the small New England coastal town, and soon the Health Education Curriculum is shelved. Books about sex and homosexuality are disappearing from libraries. Wilson High--as well as the entire town--become polarized over the battle of free speech versus protecting our children, and Jamie gets caught in the middle. When the school newspaper gets the axe, Jamie and her staff launch an independent paper, The Renegade, in order to exercise their first amendment rights. They are taunted and abused by a vocal minority, yet persevere in what they feel is right. Ms. Garden has her hand on the pulse of contemporary teens. This book is based on Ms. Garden's experience with her previous novel, Annie on My Mind, which has led to fights to keep it on bookshelves. Her exceptional novel offers a balanced view of a highly charged debate. 1999, Farrar Straus Giroux, $17.00. Ages 12 up. Reviewer: Christopher Moning (Children's Literature).
Best Books:
Books for You: An Annotated Booklist for Senior High, Fourteenth Edition, 2001; National Council of Teachers of English; United States
Middle and Junior High School Library Catalog, Ninth Edition, 2005; H.W. Wilson; United States
Middle And Junior High School Library Catalog, Supplement to the Eighth Edition, 2001; H.W. Wilson; United States
Senior High School Library Catalog, Supplement to the Fifteenth Edition, 2000; H.W. Wilson; United States
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
Tayshas High School Reading List, 2000-2001; Young Adult; Texas
ISBN: 0-374-38667-6
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Added 11/30/2006
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