Middle School Reading

MOON OVER MANIFEST by Clare Vanderpool

2011-08-21T23:27:00.004-04:00

Historical Fiction; 1929 Depression; Mystery; 2011 Newbery Gold Medal

Quiet book. I enjoyed it and was pulled in as the story unfolded and the intrigue increased. It would be a good read aloud and class discussion book.

Horn Book (Spring 2011)

"It's 1936 and Abilene's father, himself looking for work, sends her to his hometown of Manifest, Kansas, to live with Pastor Shady, a bootlegger-turned-preacher. There Abilene uncovers secrets about her family and the entire community. The setting jumps between the Depression era and WWI; mysterious letters and enlightening newspaper articles help set the scene for this captivating tale." Horn Book from http://titlewave.com

WHEN YOU REACH ME by Rebecca Stead

2011-08-21T23:14:00.004-04:00

Fiction, space and time. 2010 Newbery Gold Medal.

I have to read Wrinkle in Time again! This book would be fantastic for discussion. Loved it.

Booklist starred (June 1, 2009 (Vol. 105, No. 19))

"Grades 4-7. If this book makes your head hurt, you’re not alone. Sixth-grader Miranda admits that the events she relates make her head hurt, too. Time travel will do that to you. The story takes place in 1979, though time frames, as readers learn, are relative. Miranda and Sal have been best friends since way before that. They both live in a tired Manhattan apartment building and walk home together from school. One day everything changes. Sal is kicked and punched by a schoolmate and afterward barely acknowledges Miranda. Which leaves her to make new friends, even as she continues to reread her ratty copy of A Wrinkle in Time and tutor her mother for a chance to compete on The $20,000 Pyramid. She also ponders a puzzling, even alarming series of events that begins with a note: “I am coming to save your friend’s life, and my own . . . you must write me a letter.” Miranda’s first-person narrative is the letter she is sending to the future. Or is it the past? It’s hard to know if the key events ultimately make sense (head hurting!), and it seems the whys, if not the hows, of a pivotal character’s actions are not truly explained. Yet everything else is quite wonderful. The ’70s New York setting is an honest reverberation of the era; the mental gymnastics required of readers are invigorating; and the characters, children and adults, are honest bits of humanity no matter in what place or time their souls rest. Just as Miranda rereads L’Engle, children will return to this." Booklist Review from Follett's Titlewave: http://titlewave.com

KING OF THE SCREWUPS by K.L. Going

2011-08-07T23:03:00.003-04:00

Realistic Fiction; Gender Identity; Fathers and Sons
REVIEW
Booklist (April 15, 2009 (Vol. 105, No. 16))
Grades 7-12. "Like her previous novels, including the Printz Honor Book Fat Kid Rules the World (2003), Going’s latest is a surprising, memorable story shaped from unlikely character bonds. High-school senior Liam is a talented, straight athlete who is as gorgeous as his mother, a former supermodel, and has inherited her interest in clothes: “I love fashion. And girls.” A mediocre student, he constantly disappoints his dad, an angry, sometimes verbally abusive executive who kicks Liam out of the house after one too many perceived transgressions. Against his homophobic dad’s wishes, Liam moves in with his gay, cross-dressing, trailer-dwelling uncle, Aunt Pete. Determined to meet his father’s expectations, Liam joins the AV club at his new school and actively tries to fight his natural status as “Mr. Popularity”; but once again, everything goes awry. Liam’s parents occasionally feel more like caricatures than fully developed characters, but Liam and Aunt Pete are true originals, and Going balances her strong messages of self-discovery and acceptance with compassionate, bittersweet scenes that highlight the soul-sapping futility of trying to please unappeasable adults."

Loved this one! Actually I love every book that I've read by Going. She is a fantastic teen writer - humorous, but with a punch of reality.

MAUS: A SURVIVOR'S TALE by Art Spiegelman

2011-08-07T22:47:00.002-04:00

Holocaust, Graphic Novel, Young Adult.

Review:
School Library Journal (May 1987)
"YA Told with chilling realism in an unusual comic-book format, this is more than a tale of surviving the Holocaust. Spiegelman relates the effect of those events on the survivors' later years and upon the lives of the following generation. Each scene opens at the elder Spiegelman's home in Rego Park, N.Y. Art, who was born after the war, is visiting his father, Vladek, to record his experiences in Nazi-occupied Poland. The Nazis, portrayed as cats, gradually introduce increasingly repressive measures, until the Jews, drawn as mice, are systematically hunted and herded toward the Final Solution. Vladek saves himself and his wife by a combination of luck and wits, all the time enduring the torment of hunted outcast. The other theme of this book is Art's troubled adjustment to life as he, too, bears the burden of his parents' experiences. This is a complex book. It relates events which young adults, as the future architects of society, must confront, and their interest is sure to be caught by the skillful graphics and suspenseful unfolding of the story. Rita G. Keeler, St. John's School , Houston"

Powerful. This book is a winner with our eighth graders who study the Holocaust.

THE MOSTLY TRUE ADVENTURES OF HOMER P. FIGG by Rodman Philbrick

2011-08-07T22:23:00.003-04:00

Civil War; Adventure; Newbery Honor.
Kirkus Review (December 1, 2008)
"Shortly after this lively comic yarn opens, Homer, a half-starved orphan boy who lives in rural Maine with his mean-spirited uncle and 17-year-old brother Harold, helplessly watches as Harold is sworn into the Union Army. After finding out that their avaricious uncle sold his underage nephew to substitute for a richer neighbor in the Civil War, 12-year-old Homer takes off on a rescue mission. On the way, Homer is kidnapped by some nefarious slave-catchers, joins a traveling medicine show and holds up the Union colors during the Battle of Gettysburg. Bursting with vividly voiced characters and descriptions so crisp they practically crunch, the story is trenchantly narrated in the first person by Homer, a resourceful, sharp-witted child who is never without a lie in his pocket. Despite the overall comic tone, Philbrick makes serious points about the evil of slavery, the horrors of war, inexplicable bravery, ethical decision-making and the need to move forward in one's life. (Historical fiction. 9-12)"

I had questions at first about whom I would recommend this to since the voice of the main character is very much in a 'tall tale,' mode; I wondered if middle school students could relate (IMHO after working daily with this age group). I changed my mind, however, a chapter or two into the story. Encourage students to stick with it a bit. Kirkus review above is a very accurate description.
Rodman Philbrick website http://www.rodmanphilbrick.com/

THE HUNGER GAMES TRILOGY by Suzanne Collins

2011-08-07T17:13:00.004-04:00

Survival; Science Fiction "Sixteen-year-old Katniss Everdeen becomes a contender in a grave competition hosted by the Capitol where young boys and girls are pitted against one another in a televised fight to the death, "Catching Fire" in which Katniss and Peeta win the competition and become the faces of an impending rebellion, and "Mockingjay" in which Katniss and her family and friends are in danger because the Capitol holds her responsible for the unrest." http://titlewave.com
Excellent, excellent riveting page turner! Suzanne Collins homepage http://www.suzannecollinsbooks.com/

FALLEN ANGELS by Walter Dean Myers

2008-11-30T19:39:00.005-05:00

"Seventeen-year-old Richie Perry, just out of his Harlem high school, enlists in the Army in the summer of 1967 and spends a devastating year on active duty in Vietnam."

This is so good, astounding actually, a modern day All Quiet on the Western Front. Myers is a master of dialogue and plot. The characters are real and complex. The action is breathtaking. The questions of morality are not presented in black and white, except for the atrocities of war and the value of friendship. Often I have students who ask for war books. This should be top on the list.Walter Dean Myers

MAXIMUM RIDE: THE ANGEL EXPERIMENT by James Patterson

2008-11-26T08:45:00.004-05:00

Science Fiction, Genetic Engineering, Adventure. " After the mutant Erasers abduct the youngest member of their group, the "birdkids," who are the result of genetic experimentation, take off in pursuit and find themselves struggling to understand their own origins and purpose."

Horn Book (Spring 2006)
"Max Ride and five other human-avian genetic hybrids fly (literally) from the lab where they were created as experiments and forge a new life in hiding. When six-year-old Angel is captured, Max leads her makeshift family in a rescue attempt, raising questions about their origins and destiny. Smart-mouthed, sympathetic characters and copious butt-kicking make this fast read pure escapist pleasure."

This is the first of five books in the Maximum Ride series (The fifth is due March 2009). Absolute must for middle school collections. Patterson combines his talent for creating great plots, quick-witted dialogue, and entertaining character portrayals that tug at your heart. Thank you, James Patterson.

LIFE (IN THE CARDS) by Mariah Fredericks

2008-11-25T21:21:00.004-05:00

"School Library Journal (August 1, 2008)
Gr 5-8-In this third offering in the series, Syd tells her story. She is often in the shadow of her friends Anna and Eve, each of whom starred in a previous book. Their stories revolved around tarot-card readings that seem to have come true. Syd, always reluctant to do a reading, finally does, but her cards foretell death and disaster, which frighteningly parallel her temperamental father's worsening alcoholism and career problems... Messages are positive while realistic, and the target audience will be glad to see how Syd plays the hand she is dealt. The books are best read in order.-Suzanne Gordon, Peachtree Ridge High School, Suwanee, GA Copyright 2008 Reed Business Information."

Well... I did not read the series in the proper order; this was my first Fredericks novel, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. I don't understand Meg Cabot's cover blurb: "...will have readers rolling on the floor laughing...." Life does have its funny moments, but the overall story is one of a girl dealing with some heavy family issues. This is well done realistic fiction with a positive message that will appeal to mainstream readers. Excellent middle school choice.

Interesting note: This book and the one before, Twisted, both portray fathers dealing with alcoholism and anger.

TWISTED BY Laurie Halse Anderson

2008-11-22T20:55:00.006-05:00

2007. Family problems, high school, friendship, bullying "After finally getting noticed by someone other than school bullies and his ever-angry father, seventeen-year-old Tyler enjoys his tough new reputation and the attentions of a popular girl, but when life starts to go bad again, he must choose between transforming himself or giving in to his destructive thoughts."

Twisted was recommended to me by a student who read it in one night. I did the same. Another well written, thoughtful, on the edge of your seat work by Anderson. In my book, she's batting a perfect score - every single one of her books is a winner.

CHAINS by Laurie Halse Anderson

2008-11-22T20:26:00.008-05:00

2008. Historical Fiction, Slavery, New York, American Revolution. "After being sold to a cruel couple in New York City, a slave named Isabel spies for the rebels during the Revolutionary War."

This talented author revisits historical fiction (Fever 1793) in a vivid portrayal of a young girl's tormented life in slavery. The politics, military tactics and daily life in New York during this time period are portrayed through high action and intrigue. Fair warning: notwithstanding the triumph of human spirit, this story illustrates starkly the pain and evil of slavery.

TROUBLE by Gary Schmidt

2008-10-05T22:31:00.003-04:00

Horn Book (May/June, 2008)
" 'If you build your house far enough from Trouble, then Trouble will never find you.' Such is the credo of the fortunate Smith family of Blythbury-by-the-Sea, a (fictional) WASP-y outpost of Boston. But when Trouble arrives, it just keeps on coming. First, oldest son Franklin lies in a coma after being hit by a car; a young Cambodian immigrant is identified as the driver. Daughter Louisa, hugely distraught, retreats to her bedroom, and fourteen-year-old Henry is left on his own. With the newly adopted Black Dog, whom he's rescued from the sea, Henry sets off to climb Maine's Mt. Katahdin (as he and Franklin had planned to do together) and is joined by unexpected companions. Schmidt embarks on a road trip that limns the growing friendship of three unforgettable boys -- Henry; his honest, aggravating best friend Sanborn; and the accused Cambodian boy, Chay Chuan. A host of coincidences strains credulity at times but also allows for an extraordinary breadth, widening themes and resolving plot lines. Like Chaucer's pilgrims, Henry, Chay, and Louisa all have to find their way to grace. The accident that brings trouble to Henry and his family also brings self-realization and the uncomfortable knowledge that both Henry's idolized brother and the vaunted history of the Smith family are not what they seem. Along with the pivotal role played by the enthusiastic Black Dog, rich secondary characters enhance a 1970s-set story that adds much to the discussion of how tragedy and racism affect individuals, families, and whole communities.' (titlewave.com)

Many issues that would be excellent classroom discussion topics are raised in this book. Racism, immigration, honor, honesty, kindness, and courage are some of the themes running through this thoughtful book, which is lightened with humorous exchanges between friends. A slow beginning, but satisfying once the stage is set.

SECRET, SILENT SCREAMS by Joan Lowery Nixon

2008-09-16T21:08:00.004-04:00

Mystery. "A high school senior is convinced her friend Barry did not commit suicide but was a murder victim, and she endangers her own life to prove it." titlewave.com

Jean Lowery Nixon is a great bet for middle school mysteries. She moves the plot along at a fast clip and keeps the story a manageable length. The culprit was easily guessed, but I was pulled in enough to want to 'scream' at Marti that she was the next target. A fun scary read.

LISTENING FOR LIONS by Gloria Whelan

2008-09-06T23:20:00.006-04:00

Grades 5-8 "When her parents die of the influenza ravaging British East Africa, Rachel fears that she will have to enter an orphanage. Here the plot departs from the expected, and Rachel's life becomes very complicated. Through her sympathetic narrator, Whelan gives readers a glimpse of life in post-WWI colonial Africa. Melodramatic plot twists and a complex main character add up to a satisfying, old-fashioned tale." (Hornbook Starred 2006)

Great plot and lots of Girl Power. Rachel is a positive, inspiring role model. Gloria Whelan's Website

KINGDOM KEEPERS by Ridley Pearson

2008-09-01T22:43:00.005-04:00

"Five young teens hired as models for theme park guides find themselves pitted against Disney villains and witches that threaten both the future of Walt Disney World and the stability of the world as a whole." titlewave.com

A little magic, mystery and science fiction all rolled into one. Just scary enough. Perfect for those readers who love Disney, reluctant readers, or anyone looking for a fast-paced adventure. A lot of fun. I was a little bothered by some gender stereo-typing, but can forgive it in the overall picture of a great story. Enjoy this one!

WICKED LOVELY by Melissa Marr

2008-08-21T22:49:00.004-04:00

" Seventeen-year-old Aislinn, who has the rare ability to see fairies, is drawn against her will into a centuries-old battle by Keenan, the terrifying but alluring Summer King, who determines that she must become his queen and save summer from perishing." (http://www.titlewave.com")

What a great book! I could not put this one down. I would recommend this to those who like Stephenie Myer's Twilight. It's a little edgy, very romantic. Aislinn and her mortal boyfriend are great role models in creative decision-making. I did not expect the ending. Really fantastic! I have to thank my local librarian and get this one for my school library immediately.

Time to Start Blogging Again

2008-08-13T22:41:00.003-04:00

I've been reading, but not blogging. I have a new middle school website at Suffern Middle School, so it's the perfect time to start again. There is nothing quite like finding a GREAT book, the kind that you keep thinking about and can hardly wait to get back to. I'm in two book clubs and sometimes we read books that are good for all ages, but I do miss my middle school books.

KENNETH OPPEL

2007-10-28T10:38:00.001-04:00

Kenneth Oppel Official Site

AIRBORN
"Matt, a young cabin boy aboard an airship, and Kate, a wealthy young girl traveling with her chaperone, team up to search for the existence of mysterious winged creatures reportedly living hundreds of feet above the Earth's surface."

This was not what I expected. I had been recommending this book to boys as a Science Fiction adventure; just goes to show you how a cover and reviews can mislead. It's a wonderful story, but I think the audience extends to girls who have enjoyed books such as A Great and Terrible Beauty by Bray. Matt's relationship with Kate holds a prominent place in the plot. Kate's independence serves as a great example to girls. I don't like categorizing books as boy or girl interests, but this is not an adventure in the likes of Stormbreaker.

SKYBREAKER
Horn Book starred (Spring 2006)

This sequel to Airborn manages to delve into its characters even as it delivers yet another breakneck flight through the skies of its beguiling alternative world. The romantic tensions among the four adventurers, killing altitudes, conflicting agendas, and ruthless goons provide more than enough material for heart-stopping action scenes that will please even the most jaded of readers.

SILVERWING
"When a newborn bat named Shade but sometimes called "Runt" becomes separated from his colony during migration, he grows in ways that prepare him for even greater journeys."

Also, make sure to check out Oppel's Silverwing and sequels for an easy level, page-turning adventure.

EMAKO BLUE by Brenda Woods

2007-10-08T21:31:00.000-04:00

"Monterey, Savannah, Jamal, and Eddie have never had much to do with each other until Emako Blue shows up at chorus practice, but just as the lives of the five Los Angeles high school students become intertwined, tragedy tears them apart." African Americans/High School fiction Book summary by

Middle School Reading

MOON OVER MANIFEST by Clare Vanderpool

WHEN YOU REACH ME by Rebecca Stead

KING OF THE SCREWUPS by K.L. Going

MAUS: A SURVIVOR'S TALE by Art Spiegelman

THE MOSTLY TRUE ADVENTURES OF HOMER P. FIGG by Rodman Philbrick

THE HUNGER GAMES TRILOGY by Suzanne Collins

FALLEN ANGELS by Walter Dean Myers

MAXIMUM RIDE: THE ANGEL EXPERIMENT by James Patterson

LIFE (IN THE CARDS) by Mariah Fredericks

TWISTED BY Laurie Halse Anderson

CHAINS by Laurie Halse Anderson

TROUBLE by Gary Schmidt

SECRET, SILENT SCREAMS by Joan Lowery Nixon

LISTENING FOR LIONS by Gloria Whelan

KINGDOM KEEPERS by Ridley Pearson

WICKED LOVELY by Melissa Marr

Time to Start Blogging Again

KENNETH OPPEL

EMAKO BLUE by Brenda Woods

FORGED BY FIRE by Sharon Draper

A BIG THANK YOU TO MS. WEISS' SIXTH GRADE HUMANITIES CLASS!

FRUITS BASKET by Natsuki Takaya (Stefanie M.)

JUNIE B. JONES by Barbara Park (Hodalys A.)

FUDGE-A-MANIA by Judy Blume (Makayla H.)

THE RIVER by Gary Paulsen (Johnny R.)

THE MIRACULOUS JOURNEY OF EDWARD TULANE by Kate diCamillo (Ambreen H.)

THE TWO PRINCESSES OF BAMARRE by Gail Carson Levine (Tiffany George)

A HORSE FOR MANDY by Lurlene McDaniel (Beth D.)

STAR GIRL by Jerry Spinelli

ARE YOU THERE GOD, IT'S ME MARGARET by Judy Blume

HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWS by J.K. Rowling

AROUND THE WORLD IN 80 DAYS by Jules Verne

ENDYMION SPRING by Matthew Skelton

THE BOOK THIEF by Marcus Zusak

A CORNER OF THE UNIVERSE by Ann M. Martin

THE RIVER BETWEEN US

JACOB HAVE I LOVED

COUNTING ON GRACE by Elizabeth Winthrop

MAGYK by Angie Sage

ELSEWHERE by Gabrielle Zevin

THE ACCIDENT by Diane Hoh

THE HIGHER POWER OF LUCKY by Susan Patron

A DOOR NEAR HERE by Heather Quarles

TWILIGHT by Stephenie Meyer

THE SECRET LIFE OF BEES by Sue Monk Kidd

LIFE OF PI by Yann Martel

THE WISH GIVER by Bill Brittain

WOLF RIDER by Avi

THE GHOST IN THE TOKAIDO IN by Dorothy and Thomas Hoobler

THE LAST DRAGON by Silvana Di Mari

SUMMERLAND by Michael Chabon

THE GREEN GLASS SEA by Ellen Klages

LIFE AS WE KNEW IT by Susan Beth Pfeffer

SUMMERLAND by Michael Chabon

PHILLIP HOOSE