the host By Stephenie Meyer

What would you do if your body was invaded by a parasitic soul and you are expected to just give up your body and mind to this soul? Would you put up a fight? Would you willingly give up control of your body, your mind, your actions, and your emotions simply because a glowing worm said so?

This is the situation Melanie Stryder, one of the few remaining humans, is put in. In a failed attempt at finding a family member, she tries to kill herself so that she can not be taken by the Souls, the aliens that have invaded Earth. The reader is introduced to Wanderer, the soul implanted in Melanie’s body, and the reader starts to see that Melanie is not going to go away quietly. Wanderer and Melanie begin to work together, forming a bond that shouldn’t exist, as they search out Melanie’s brother and her boyfriend, who they hope are still human. In a world where humans are feared by the Souls and the Souls are feared by humans, is it possible for a human and soul to work together?

Stephenie Meyer takes a break from writing about vampires and werewolves to write her first “adult” novel in the science fiction genre. the host can be easily read by high school students, though I am sure anyone who is a fan of Stephenie Meyers will be more than wanting to read it. Strangely, it starts off slow and is slightly difficult to get in to, but it does pick up and readers will be hard pressed to put it down. Meyers claims that she did not intentionally write an “adult” novel, so it is no surprise that I am willing to recommend it for young adults as well.

This book could be taught in the classroom, but most likely in a science fiction geared class because of its subject matter. The novel has many themes (i.e. loneliness, love, struggle for survival) that could easily be tied into more classical work being read in the classroom…it would all be up to the teacher to figure out how it could be done!

prey By Lurlene McDaniel

Picture this: a tall, shapely woman, dressed in figuring hugging clothes and wearing stilettos.

Did you picture a high school U.S. History teacher? Pretty positive you didn’t, but neither did any of her students. Especially not Ryan Piccoli. The above description fits Ms. Lori Settles (in the hallways and locker rooms she’s known as Stilettos Settles) to the letter, and none of her students seem to mind. In a novel told from three different viewpoints, the touchy subject of teacher-student relationships is discussed. It is really Ms. Settles fault that Ryan would do anything for her, becoming the ultimate teacher’s pet? Is Ryan being taken advantage of by a teacher who should have his best interests in mind or is he taking advantage of a teacher who developed a soft spot for a student? These questions and more are raised as the reader is taken on a disturbing journey of unquenchable desire, supposed love, and immoral decisions.

Lurlene McDaniel takes a turn from her typically heart warming novels to bring us prey, a book she admits is written about a topic outside her norm (others agree). As mentioned, prey discusses a topic that has recently garnered more attention: female teachers having sexual relationships with male students. Because of this contemporary topic and the issues it raises, this would be a book that I would recommend to not be taught in schools. I do not see any problems with students reading this book, but for a teacher to use this book in his or her classroom, Pandora’s box would certainly be opened. Imagine a female teacher trying to teach a book about a female teacher having a sexual relationship with a male student…in a classroom that is bound to have male students. For an independent reading book, prey could easily be put on the list under the heading of “contemporary topics,” but I feel that it should not be a required read of any student.

I have read other blogs that have expressed some of the same concerns about this book, and there are also comments about how the book is written. If you have read any other novels by Lurlene McDaniel, you know what a good writer she is, and sadly this book does not always live up to her high standards. Some parts do not feel complete, while others are perfectly crafted. It could be said that because McDaniel chose to step outside her comfort area, the book seemed to struggle, and I would be willing to agree.

Overall, the book is a good read, but don’t go on my word alone…let the author tell you about it herself!

Game by Walter Dean Myers

For some students, high school is a time when dreams of sports stardom rise and fall in a dramatic arc.  Some athletes go on to serious collegiate and professional careers; others fade into obscurity before earning their diplomas.  

Walter Dean Myers's Game follows the first-person story of Drew, a high school senior who dreams of playing college basketball on a full scholarship and eventually making it into the NBA.  During his junior year, Drew carried his team through a successful season to a good showing at the state championships.  But as a senior, he is confronted with unanticipated adversity; the arrival of a Czech player who becomes the coach's new darling throws a wrench in Drew's plans to be the standout player.  As the season progresses, Drew confronts his new reality:  he can play like he always has and become a benchwarmer, or he can share the limelight and remain on the court.  The choices that Drew must make to escape the realities of Harlem to reach college stardom are not easy, and the season ends with surprising results for Drew and his teammates.

Drew is a strong narrator for this book, proving himself to be as tough a talker on the outside as he is vulnerable on the inside.  It would be easy for late high school students to relate to Drew's story, as many students strive to get into the best school with the best program, with the best scholarship.  While not every student could relate to Drew's fantasies of athletic success, I think that many students could identify with Drew's fears of being left behind by his closest-held dreams.  The plot of Game might focus somewhat narrowly on the basketball court, but the themes of the book run wider to making the sometimes-scary transition between high school and college.

However, it's possible that some students might be put off by the high level of basketball terminology used throughout Game.  Admittedly, I don't know much about basketball aside from the meanings of "dribble" and "slam dunk"; for students who are readers like myself, and aren't familiar with the dozens of slang terms used on the court, Game could become a tedious read.

If Game were to be used in the classroom, I would recommend it be used in conjunction with high school seniors writing college entrance essays--simply as a counterpoint to the intense focus of the college application process, to encourage dialogue about anxiety and to remind students that the application process will likely work out as they hope it will.  Many students come under an incredible level of stress and scrutiny while applying for college; perhaps reading Game could provide a little bit of levity and distraction that helps these high school juniors and seniors navigate their way toward their hopes for the future.

Rapunzel's Revenge By Shannon & Dean Hale

Tired of the typical fairy tales? You know the ones with the fair maiden in distress and the charming prince who comes and saves her after risking life and limb in a fight with an evil doer? Well, look no further than Rapunzel’s Revenge for a twist on the classic fairy tale of the girl with the super long hair.

An unconventional twist on a conventional story line, Rapunzel’s Revenge is a story about a girl who is tired of being lied to and wants to make a change in a world where everything isn’t exactly as it seems. Rapunzel has spent many years with a woman she thought was her mother, to only find out that the woman is an evil witch who forces everyone one to work for her as she sucks the world dry of water so no one can have any plants. It comes as no surprise that Rapunzel gets locked up (in a tree this time), but this time, Rapunzel decides to fight back. She meets up with a young boy named Jack, and from there on, their adventures hardly resemble a fairy tale as they fight their way back to the evil witch to try and make things right.

Well-known young adult writer, Shannon Hale, takes a break from writing a typical novel and teams up with her husband to pen her first ever graphic novel. Simply put, a graphic novel is a book length comic book, but don’t let “comic book” be a deterrent to teaching this novel in your classroom. A book certainly appropriate for middle schoolers, its format is likely to be a huge selling point in convincing students to read. It can also be used in a high school classroom (feasibly at all levels), as part of a unit that deals with classical texts and modern interpretations of those texts. Another possible avenue for using this book is to discuss authors’ abilities to switch genres, and how some authors succeed and others do not.

Shannon Hale was unsure of the response her first attempt at a graphic novel would have, but according to reviews and the critics, her style switching was a fine choice. There are plans for another segment (if not two more), so this book can be used to keep readers reading :)

Diary of a Wimpy Kid By Jeff Kinney

Because Greg would insist, let me start by saying that Diary of a Wimpy Kid is not a diary…no matter what you may think by reading the cover. In fact, don’t think this “diary” is going to be full of just words either because as it also states on the cover, Diary of a Wimpy Kid is “a novel in cartoons.”

Greg Heffley takes the reader on the wild ride known as middle school, showing the world how miserable being a kid can be. Not only is Greg “stuck in middle school with a bunch of morons,” but he has a super cool older brother, Rodrick, and a best friend, Rowley, who he could live with out. Rodrick never lets Greg tag along with him because Greg does not even factor in on the coolness scale, but Rodrick gives Greg plenty of pranks and practical jokes to pull on Rowley, who he has been avoiding “since the first day of school.” Greg gives the reader a play-by-play interpretation of a middle schooler’s life…if something seems exaggerated, it probably isn’t because, according to Greg, nothing is worse than being a kid in middle school.

Jeff Kinney takes a different approach to writing a novel for kids by incorporating a first-person narrator telling the reader about his daily life with comics to enhance the text. A great book for students in middle school (though older students would enjoy it too!); it is an easy and quick read, and a read that may motivate some reluctant readers to become willing readers.

Diary of a Wimpy Kid also addresses the issue of bullying, but does so in a way that is less “in your face” for students of a younger age. It could be easily used as a launching point for respect for others and in the classroom, whether in its entirety or with a teacher selecting excerpts.

Another positive, Kinney has recently published two more “diaries” of Greg’s. If a student enjoyed the first one, it would be an easy task to encourage them to continue reading about Greg and his struggles as a middle school kid…just as I plan on doing!

Jellaby by Kean Soo

You think having to hide anything from your mom could be hard? Try hiding a huge purple monster!

Meet Jellaby. A lovable, silent, monster who accompanies Portia Bennett on a journey to find his home. During a dream sequence, Portia finds herself in the woods where she stumbles upon what seems like a monster. When she wakes up, she realizes it is real--and tries her best to hide the new discovery, and new friend, from her mom.

After their first meeting, Jellaby follows Portia home to stay outside of her window during the night. At school, Jellaby waits outside until he sees Portia's friend Jason get bullied. He urges Portia to do something about it, or else he would reveal himself and save Jason--so begrudgingly Portia comes to Jason's aid. They end up in the Principal's office where Jellaby makes his first appearance. Trying to talk her way out of the situation, Portia finally realizes she has to tell Jason and make him swear not to say anything.

She names him Jellaby. Why, you ask? Well, because she liked that name, even though Jason thought "Fangzilla" would be a more fitting name. But after Jason's babysitting technique of having Jellaby watch Godzilla was thwarted by Portia's outrage, when they offered the naming options up to the big monster in the room, Jellaby it was.

They decide to find Jellaby's home. He draws a picture that looks like it came from the city. So, Portia and Jason come up with a master plan to take Jellaby to Toronto on Halloween--because after all, Jellaby already has a costume.

This is a book that would be suitable for 6-8th grade and could be used in the classroom as a student's choice reading, to start kids reading for fun.

This graphic novel leaves the reader wanting more--and come April 21, 2009--Jellaby In the City will be released for all of the young adults and adults alike to witness what happens next!

Click on the link below to read an interview from author Kean Soo:

http://forum.newsarama.com/showthread.php?t=106543

I Know It's Over by C.K. Kelly Martin

In C.K. Kelly Martin's novel I Know It's Over, Nicholaus Severson, is a typical 16-year old teenager looking for different ways to enjoy his approaching summer vacation. Often referred to as Nick, he has formed a tight bond with his childhood buddies, Keelor and Nathan, since his parent's divorce a year prior. Among other things he plans to: play hockey, work, eat junk food, party, smoke, drink, and maybe have sex. As the end of the school year comes to a close, all Nick has to do is count down the days for the partying to begin. Everything involving the upcoming summer break seems etched in stone, but when Nick meets Sasha, a girl that will change his world forever--things become topsy turvy.

While devoting so much time to Sasha, Nick all but forgets his friends and the bond they share starts to dwindle. Nick is torn between his two friends and Sasha, but doesn't want to lose either one. With all the drama surrounding Nathan and Keelor, Nick turns to the only person that knows him best. It's clear that Sasha does a little more than comfort Nick, when they have sex for the first time. Needless to say, Sasha becomes pregnant and Nick is involved in some drama of his own, but what's a teenager to do.

In this novel, Martin explores the topics that teenagers face nowadays. The problems surrounding the divorcing of parents, sex, drugs, and homosexuality are all relevant issues that some teens are afraid to discuss. This book serves as a means to address these topics thoroughly and effectively. As for age groups, this selection is more appropriate for Juniors and Seniors in high school due to its frequent reference to sex and sexual language. At any rate, Martin does an excellent job in grasping the reader's attention and making this novel a page turner. It leaves readers with the feeling of wanting more long after the last page is read and finished. Here's a trailer of the book provided by the author's website: http://vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=vids.individual&videoid=31704514

The Spellman Files by Lisa Lutz

Twenty-eight year-old Izzy Spellman runs background checks on potential "future ex-boyfriends" and passes out drunk on her parents' front porch.

Her adolescent little sister, Rae, trails strangers for fun, negotiates taking a bath as if it were an international business deal, and winds down at Izzy's regular bar by confiding into the bartender over a ginger ale, while he waits for Izzy to come and claim her, again. 

Their perfect older brother, David, is a successful, dashing lawyer (responsible for Rae's negotiating skills) who was once the victim of Izzy's criminal acts of childhood sibling rivalry, in the form of sneaking in his room at night and cutting his hair or erasing his hard drive.

Their parents bug their rooms and sweat out the truth about typical adolescent rule-breaking as if they were being interrogated for the murder of JFK.

They all take turns retrieving their Uncle Ray from his "lost weekend" disappearances of gambling, hookers, and booze. After all, according to Izzy, "it is an essential rite of passage, for all the Spellman children to, at one time or another, take a road trip to collect their uncle."

They are all blackmailing each other, all spying on each other, all tailing each other, and all smashing out each others taillights so that it is easier to spot each other while they are doing it.

This is the Spellman family. As you can see, the parents' PI firm, Spellman Investigations, is not only the family business, but it is also at the heart of the family's personal lives as well. In fact, the Spellmans seem to spend more time investigating each other than their professional cases.

This is not a novel driven by a captivating plot, but by the quirky characters and their everyday relationships with each other and the people that they meet. It is sarcastic and mature and reeks of  a furtive humor that is blatant to the reader, but just a day in the life for a Spellman. And narrating it all is Izzy Spellman, in a love/ hate relationship with the only life that she has ever known, yet one that seems to keep her from being the "normal" woman she wants to be.

This isn't a youth literature book; it is an everyone book. This is also a Wes Anderson movie just waiting to happen. I wasn't surprised to learn that author Lisa Lutz is also a screenwriter and that The Spellman Files has been bought by Paramount Pictures. I picture this novel developing into a movie like the Royal Tenenbaums or Running with Scissors, one carried by in-depth, introspective characters and a dry humorous plot in the background. I dug this book, big time.

2007's The Spellman Files was followed up in 2008 by The Curse of the Spellmans, and Revenge of the Spellmans will be released in March of 2009.

Here is a brief video of author Lisa Lutz talking about The Spellman Files:

The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie

Dealing with crushing poverty, a legacy of alcoholism, and a number of deadly tragedies sounds like just another depressing YA downer novel. But thankfully, The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian was written by the hilarious and masterful Sherman Alexie, so instead, it is a refreshingly funny and honest story that will hook you from the very beginning.

Arnold Spirit, known as Junior on the rez (the Spokane Indian reservation he lives on), is the bluntly hilarious, yet endearing narrator who loves drawing cartoons and playing basketball. But the 14 year old must learn to deal with the life of being a "part-time Indian" when he leaves the rez in Wellpinit to attend an all-white school in Reardan, a town 22 miles away. In Reardan, there is HOPE--hope for a better education, hope to one day leaving the rez for good--because in Reardan, there are white people! Junior is a smart kid with a lot of potential, but by leaving the rez he must not only deal with being the only Indian in his new school (besides the team mascot, that is) and with making friends, but even more so with being seen as a traitor to his people--who already picked on him before he left. Leaving the rez also means leaving his best (and only) friend, Rowdy, who has his share of problems but always stood up for Junior. Throughout the story, though, Junior shows his bravery and determination, even in the face of tragedy, in order to leave the reader with a sense of hope...without being cheesy.

In this semi-autobiographical story, Sherman Alexie gives us an honest and unapologetic look at what it's like to be an Indian growing up on a reservation, or as Junior puts it, "a poor-ass reservation kid living with his poor-ass family on the poor-ass Spokane Indian Reservation" (7). In addition to the unrelenting poverty that those on the reservation must deal with their whole lives, there is also the issue of alcoholism that is rampant throughout the reservation. And with that, alcohol-related deaths. Even though these are difficult issues to deal with, Alexie does so in a sharp, real and eye-opening way. His ability to be simultaneously funny and bluntly honest can make you both laugh out-loud and want to cry. But Alexie shows that this is part of the Indian experience. In the story, Junior explains that "sure, Indians were drunks and sad and displaced and crazy and mean, but, dang, we knew how to laugh" (166). Alexie also shows the importance of friendship and family, along with the difficulties of identity and conflicts between what one wants out of life and what is expected of them.

The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian reminded me a bit of American Born Chinese. Both contain young male narrators who deal with issues of conflicting ethnic identities and while TATDOAPTI (long title!) is not a graphic novel, it is illustrated with great cartoons throughout. As Sherman Alexie's first young adult style novel, I would jump at the chance to use this text in the classroom, perhaps as part of a unit on multiculturalism or identity. The only thing, other than language, that could possibly offend book-banning enthusiasts would be a couple (funny) references made to Junior's love of masturbation. Nothing graphic, though.

So, if you still aren't convinced about The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian, I will allow Stephen Colbert to help me do so. Sherman Alexie was recently on Stephen's TV show, The Colbert Report, to promote the book. It's a great interview and Alexie actually accomplishes the unthinkable--leaving Colbert speechless!

The Colbert ReportMon - Thurs 11:30pm / 10:30c

Sherman Alexie

Colbert at Christmas
Colbert Christmas DVD

Green Screen
Bill O'Reilly Interview

Black Box by Julie Schumacher

How do you deal with the crumbling affects of having a sibling suffering with depression?

This novel by Julie Schumacher addresses some common (but largely stigmatized) issues that young adults are facing--depression, suicide, and hospitalization, all of which are closely tied to issues that carry less of a stigma--parental arguments, grades, and the potential of a budding romance.

Black Box introduces Elena, the younger sister of Dora, who like so many teens is diagnosed with depression. The reader is taken on the hard, excruciatingly painful journey from a sibling's perspective. Elena worries about Dora's stability to overcome her depression, and confides in Jimmy--a friend who knows all too well what can happen to a teen going through it. Together, Jimmy helps Elena look up the medications Dora is taking (or hoarding) to find out about what a real black box warning is. Elena struggles with issues of loyalty and deep concern for her sister's downward spiral.

This novel hit very close to home for me, having had a who brother dealt with similar issues. Not often is this issue confronted in literature responsibly, but Schumacher hits the mark. Not often is the point of view from a loved one suffering over a sibling's heartache offered to the reader with such intense honesty, and the perspective is true to the trials and tribulations a younger sibling has to go through. Depression not only affects the person going through it, but includes the family of the depressed. Black Box undoubtedly will touch many young adults (and adults who've gone through it, also) with its real testament to the second hand effects of loving someone going through such a hard time.

I would teach this book--over and over and over again. The message being portrayed is something young adults need in their lives to understand and empathize with the realness of a very common occurrence. Accompanied by an eloquent and well formulated author's note at the end of the novel, Schumacher breaks new ground with an invaluable read for the young adult audience.

Her writing is easy to understand for a young adult and incredibly realistic. Nominated for 2009 Best Books for Young Adults, Black Box is a clearly defined must read.

Kimmie66 by Aaron Alexovich

Imagine a world where there are two realities--a real and virtual one. And in these two worlds characters have the option, better yet the privilege to take on different lives by simply placing a pair of specially made goggles over their eyes. In Aaron Alexovich's comic, Kimme66, this is how the protagonist 14-year old Telly Kade lives her life in the 23rd century. With these virtual reality goggles, she escapes her reality-world where no one pays her any attention; not even her family to become someone else in the viral-world where she's important, liked, and loved. Here, Alexovich creates this alter-world (referred to as lairs in the text) in which Telly can be anyone she wants to be with ease. In her lair she has two friends who knows of her existence Nekokat and Kimmie66. They have been friends for years and know of each others deepest and darkest secrets, or so Telly thought.

In this comic book, Alexovich creates a narrative full of suspense that is unrelenting in combination with the vivid images that communicates more than words to readers. A plot with such twists and turns benefits from this type of mixed media with words and images. When Telly receives a suicide note from Kimmie66 she doesn't know what to believe, and the illustrations accompanied with the prose visually shows her agony. How can she research Kimmie's death any further if she only knows her by her screen name in their alter-world? Telly wants to believe that Kimmie (given her sketchy personality) is simply pulling another one of her famous pranks, but when a girl in the real world commits suicide matching Kimmie's identity, Telly only knows one world where she can travel to learn the truth.

After some researching, Telly discovers that the history of the virtual world and the goggles have a direct link to Kimmie's family, but she needs her mysterious friend to figure out the relation. But where does she begin? Will Telly follow the avatars resembling Kimmie that continues to appear in various lairs? But how could Kimmie's avatar be alive if she's dead? It's questions like these that keeps readers engaged and wanting more of the story and characters, page after page.

Aaron Alexovich takes his readers on a visual ride as Telly searches for the truth behind her friend's life that she thought she knew so well. What could possibly make Kimmie take her own life? Or did she? This is the mystery that Telly's determined to solve in this science-fiction tale of worlds colliding and friendships being stretched to the limit.

As far as educational appeal goes, this novel can be integrated into a high school curriculum very easily because of the fresh material and subject matter that speaks to this age group. Kimmie66 offers what other novels leave up to readers to create in their imaginations--images of characters and settings. For students who are visual learners, this novel would enhance their reading experience and compliment their learning style. Overall, the author thematically integrates topics that should be addressed in high school such as: searching for identity, sense of belonging, and suicide. Too often, these topics are overlooked and left out of the traditional high school curriculum. Like Gene Yang coming of age novel, American Born Chinese, this book serves as a means to address these very important social issues.

Audrey, Wait! by Robin Benway

Layla. Rosanna. Elise. Donna. Delilah. They all have something in common with Audrey: they are all women immortalized in song by a former lover.

Audrey Cuttler thought she was just another normal teenager. She worked at the local ice cream shop. Her idea of a good time was scoring concert tickets with her best friend, Victoria. Her biggest worry was trying to avoid her high school nemesis, the stuck-up Sharon Eggleston. She had a typical high school boyfriend, Evan, who was the lead singer of just another wannabe MTV band. And they went through a typical high school break-up.

This was Audrey's life--until Evan decided to express his anguish over their break-up by writing a little song entitled "Audrey, Wait!"...and his band performs it in front of the entire school...and it catches on to local radio...and then the Billboard Top 100...and then MTV. And suddenly, Evan's band, The Do-Gooders, are the hottest band in popular music, and "Audrey, Wait!" is the hottest song on the charts...and everyone is interested in Audrey and her life.

Audrey, Wait! by Robin Benway is not your typical, coming-of-age, dramatic YAL book. There are no dramatic "D" themes (drug problems, eating disorders, untimely deaths, diseases, and in the case of my last YAL book, Debbie Harry Sings In French...teenage drag dressing). Audrey has a healthy social, family, and educational life in practically every way. Until the song "Audrey, Wait!" becomes the representation of everything she is, turning her personal life into the newest tabloid obsession practically overnight.

Imagine at age 16...

- running from the paparazzi on your first date with a new boyfriend

- explaining to your parents why the house phone is ringing off the hook with reporters from all over the country requesting interviews

- Internet message boards bashing you

- fan clubs dedicated to you

- videos of yourself (and you didn't even know you were being taped!) broadcasted on YouTube

These are the adventures that Audrey takes the reader on, and after a while, the reader starts to feel like one of Audrey's friends. She tells her story as if the reader is a familiar confidant living in the same world as her, someone who is fully aware of who she is, because the reader has heard the song "Audrey, Wait!" a million times and seen her picture in all the magazines as well. Each chapter is cleverly introduced with a popular song lyric and the name of the song and band; music, the reader can assume, that Audrey loves and listens to herself. Some music that I also happen to listen to. By the end of the book, Audrey and I were BFF.

I don't know if I would push to have this book included in a high school curriculum for any particular educational value, but I wouldn't shun it for any reason. The author does point out parallels to The Scarlett Letter and also references Charles Dickens. Furthermore, Audrey loves to point out all the PSAT words that she throws around in her trendy vocabulary.

Overall, I think it was a very entertaining novel and a clever way to address the struggle of forming and discovering your own self-identity while the world is watching and simultaneously taking it upon itself to form one for you.

Conception by Kalisha Buckhanon

The gift of life is said to be the greatest of all gifts given, but what if the receiver of this gift, joy--blessing is a child? In the intriguing but subtle novel, Conception, by emerging writer Kalisha Buckannon the protagonist, 15-year old Shivana Montgomery has to answer this question. Living in a world where nothing comes easy, and the worst is expected from those with the same underprivileged upbringings as Shivana, she has to find her own way. In searching for the love she never found at home, the protagonist falls prey to the charm and guile of an older man and becomes pregnant. Not once in this roller coaster of a novel does Buckannon let up on the drama surrounding Shivana and her unborn child.


One technique the writer relies on is the mystery of the spirit child that has been trying to reach earth for generations. This unborn soul serves as an omniscient narrator in a sense because it's the point of view that opens and remains dominant throughout the book. Buckannon's choice to make the final resting place for the spirit child the most unlikely choice in Shivana keeps readers turning the page. As a pregnant, unwed mother-to-be Shivana is alone, and feels as if no one loves her. Surely she could ask for help from the baby's father, but he's made it clear that a family isn't what he was looking for in their affair. Or maybe she can ask her mother for help; the woman who--bitter from the trials of life, has abused Shivana for years. Being too young to know how to properly care for herself (better yet a baby), Shivana finds herself in a predicament that makes her desperate to find a way out of this mess. But will she find a solution by any means necessary?


In the modern day of love, lies and teenage pregnancy, Kalisha Buckhanon welcomes readers not only into Shivana's world, but that of the unborn child. Readers are privy to the past lives of the child as it reveals the journey it has taken to be born. All the mothers who were chosen, but unable to bring the child full term and to life are representations of the hurdles the spirit has endured over the years. Thematically, Buckannon connects Shivana and the unborn child through their individual tribulations. Now it's up to Shivana to alleviate the unborn child cries for life. Maybe this child will be the one to give Shivana the love she's been longing for?

Contrary to other books on teenage pregnancy, Conception gives voice to the sometimes voiceless. This novel can be used as a way to expose preteens to the pressures of sex. With so many teens progressing at such a rate, being a mother at fifteen can be seen as the norm. After reading this story students can realize the power behind the word conception.

March Toward the Thunder by Joseph Bruchac

In literature, Native Americans are usually portrayed as a vestige of the Old West, half of an ongoing game of cowboys and Indians.  Yet in March Toward the Thunder, a historical novel that would make Sherman Alexie proud, Joseph Bruchac shares the life of a young Abenaki Indian soldier in the US Civil War, an experience based upon the life of Bruchac's own great-grandfather.

March Toward the Thunder follows the brief soldiering experience of Louis Nolette, an Abenaki Indian from Vermont who joins the Union army for the money.  Finding himself a member of a mostly-Irish brigade, Louis must navigate the bloody battlefields of Virginia.  While Louis befriends the fellow soldiers of his regiment, he is constantly aware of the fact that his status as an Indian renders him something of an outsider.  Marching from battle to battle, Louis's keen Indian eyes, ears, and intuition become welcome resources to his military superiors.  Along his journey, friends are found and lost, creating a document that shows the brutal reality of war in terms as honest as any I've ever encountered.

Because of its capability to present historical accuracy in such a fascinating format, March Toward the Thunder would be a wonderful addition to any high school English  curriculum.  I think it would be appropriate for early high school, given the fact that its subject matter is intense without being overly graphic in its depiction of war.  It would be easy to tie this novel in with a curriculum about the Civil War; both Walt Whitman and Abraham Lincoln are minor characters in the book, and so Whitman's Civil War poems and The Gettysburg Address could be read in conjunction with the novel to create a deeper understanding of the climate and background of the US Civil War.  Such a unit would allow for cross-curricular learning with a history class, allowing students to learn more about the battles discussed in March Toward the Thunder while they read semi-fictionalized accounts of them in English class.

However, due to the fact that the entirety of March Toward the Thunder takes place during a 2-month span of time during the final summer of the Civil War, its plot line is somewhat redundant.  A repetition of marching, battle, marching, battle, and more marching is repeated to create the story line.  For those students interested in the Civil War, this will not seem too repetitious--but for students who are less than intrigued by the mid 1800s, the constantly repeated action might cause a lack of interest.

 Ultimately, I think that March Toward the Thunder would be a great YAL addition to a unit on Civil War literature.  Taken in the modern context of the US's current involvement in Iraq, reading a 15-year-old's first-person account of the horrors of war could lead to interesting discussion on students' thoughts about joining the military and going off to fight a war.  Louis is a genuine and relatable character, both as an American Indian and as a teenager.  Students in any English classroom would be able to relate to him and his search for friendship, belonging, and safety--even if his search is situated in the midst of one of the bloodiest wars in US history.

Color of the Sea by John Hamamura

Very often, YA novels about World War II feature European concentration camps and Jews in hiding.  In John Hamamura's Color of the Sea, the experiences of Japanese-Americans following the bombing of Pearl Harbor receive some much-welcomed attention.

Color of the Sea follows the life of Sam Hamada, a boy born in Japan but raised in Hawaii.  Early on, Sam undertakes the training of a samurai at the behest of his father, ultimately learning a code of honor that forms the core of the man he grows to become.  After high school, Sam moves to Lodi, California with hopes to attend college.  In Lodi, he meets and falls in love with Keiko, a first-generation Japanese-American girl from a very traditional family.  When World War II starts, obstacles arise--Sam joins the army, and Keiko's family is sent to live in an internment camp.  From the plantations of Hilo to the ashes of Hiroshima, Color of the Sea is an in-depth look at both traditional Japanese values and the lives of Japanese-Americans during a time in history when the Japanese in America were seen as enemies.

One thing that I appreciated about Color of the Sea was the opportunity to take a closer look at a period of American history that is often marginalized or ignored.  The internment of Japanese-Americans is something that many would rather just forget about, but this novel allows readers the chance to relate to the characters as people rather than caricatures meant to be representative of a racial group.  If this book was used in a classroom, it would be a great opportunity to partner with a history teacher and explore what was happening in the United States while battles were being fought all over the rest of the world.

The one caveat I had with this book regarded its use of sexual language.  Frankly, I felt Hamamura's use of sexual imagery was a bit over-the-top--and almost embarrassing to read.  I imagine this sentiment would hold true for teenage readers, as well.  Honestly, reading phrases like "Sam, hovering like a cloud, opens, lets every guarded part of himself fall...and [his] hard, lovely penis [penetrates] her" for a class assignment that would later involve discussion would probably be way too mortifying for the average 16-year-old, especially if a teacher's lesson plans called for the text to be read aloud in class (233).

While the sexual imagery in Color of the Sea makes me think that it's less likely to be used in a YAL classroom than other books might be, I think that its subject matter makes it a valuable resource to be used in class.  I would recommend it for older high school readers, based upon the aforementioned sexual content and the novel's incorporation of semi-complex Japanese ideology.

Gangsta Rap by Benjamin Zephaniah

Around the world, teenagers dream of becoming famous for making music.  In Gangsta Rap, Benjamin Zephaniah explores what happens when these dreams come true.

Gangsta Rap follows the story of three teenage boys from East London who have been expelled from school; they care nothing at all about academics, and instead all of their focus is on rap music.  As a last resort, they are given the opportunity to attend an alternative school and pursue their musical interests.  The boys form a rap group called Positive Negatives and cut a single that quickly becomes a hit.  Their fame--and the problems inherent in being famous--escalates, leading to both tragedy and triumph for the members of the group.

The strengths of Gangsta Rap lie in the imaginative relatability of its story line.  I think teens would enjoy a peek into what it's like when their contemporaries ht the big time.  The book is a quick read without difficult concepts or ideas; I imagine it would be a great recommendation for a reluctant reader.  However, a weakness in the book lies in its use of London dialect.  Having lived in England for a year, I was familiar with many of the terms being used.  But for a reader unfamiliar with British slang, the unfamiliar terminology could be a frustrating turn-off.

Ultimately, I think the book would be a great addition to a YAL curriculum.  The ideas expressed in the book would definitely lead to great class discussions about the costs and benefits of fame and the importance of loyalty, and its readability would make it more likely that most students would be engaged.  Because of the focus on rap music throughout Gangsta Rap, a cross-curricular connection with music (focusing on the origins and musicality of rap and hip-hop) would be easy to create.  Gangsta Rap would be a wonderful way to invite fans of rap music to share their ideas in the classroom.

A YA Look into Teen Pregnancy and Loss: November Blues by Sharon M. Draper

If you were a 16 year old pregnant girl, would you sell your baby to its deceased father's parents? That's a wild idea that becomes an actual situation to ponder in Sharon Draper's November Blues.

November Blues by Sharon Draper is the followup novel to the Coretta Scott King Honor Book, The Battle of Jericho. Without having read the first novel, it wasn't hard to understand what happened. At the beginning of November Blues, Josh Prescott (Jericho's cousin) died suddenly in a pledge stunt. November Nelson was his girlfriend. Both Jericho and November are taking Josh's death pretty hard. Especially when November finds out that she is pregnant with Josh's baby.

November struggles with having to deal with being a 16 year old teen with the opportunities to go to Cornell and have a fine education, now left with a tough choice to make. Even though Josh is gone, through November and Jericho's memories the reader really does get to know him well.

Draper gives the reader a glimpse into how devastating it is to lose a loved one in adolescence, the consequences of teen pregnancy and the pressures of body image for young girls. To thicken the plot, Josh's parents decide after being exceedingly bereft from the loss of their only son, that they want November's baby. They have a big-wig "beige" lawyer to draw up papers for November to give the baby to the Prescott's in exchange for a large sum of money, her college education paid for, and no baby responsibilities. Talk about crazy! Although the deal is tempting for November, she stands up for herself and takes her time to think about it.

While all of her friends are talking about sports, shopping, summer plans and "kid stuff," November is down in the dumps about her pregnancy. She stays home all summer instead of tearing up the town like her friends. The reader gets to meet a onslaught of characters and their involvement dealing with Josh's death and November's scandal. Her roller coaster of emotions truly shows through, and the tough decision she makes will affect her entire life.

Complications arise, and November comes through. This novel is definitely a page turner and worth the read. It's not just another book about teen pregnancy; it offers the perspective of a teen girl in an easy to read format and addresses some difficult issues in a non-preachy way. This book is a great pick for someone looking to read a story for the sheer pleasure of it--from a seemingly authentic teen perspective.

Debbie Harry Sings In French by Meagan Brothers

Our teenage years are a time to get to know ourselves and a time to figure out who we are. A time that involves, say, the death of a parent, taking care of a widowed, alcoholic parent, a deadly drug overdose, getting shipped to rehab, getting sent across the country to live with an estranged uncle, questioning our sexuality, and dressing in drag. Right?

Well. This is Johnny's life. Maybe he's had it a little rougher, a little stranger, than most teenagers.

Oh---and the person who helps him through all this...is Deborah Harry.

Yes.

Blondie.

I think I could stop here, and you might already be intrigued enough to want to give Meagan Brother's (who apparently is a bit of a rocker herself) Debbie Harry Sings In French a read. Personally, I was sold when I read the title.

Any music enthusiast would get a kick out of this book, as DHSIF is full of popular music references from The Cure's Disintegration, to Debbie Gibson's Electric Youth, to Patti Smith's Horses. "Music" is practically a character in the novel and one of the few "friends" that Johnny finds comfort in. But when he hears a few Blondie lyrics sung in French on the radio, it is Debbie Harry that becomes his muse, his savior, his motivation, a role model, someone he can aspire to be lik...

...wait; does Johnny want to be a girl? He isn't gay, or at least he doesn't...think he is? Is he? I mean, he has a girlfriend, so he is straight, even though he kinda likes to dress up in heels and dresses...right?

Coincidentally, I found that Johnny's confusion regarding his sexuality and obsession with Debbie Harry might not be so abnormal. A song that also happens to have lyrics in French recently enraptured me, too: "Poster of a Girl" by the Canadian band Metric, whose lead singer, another stunning blond named Emily Haines, could very well be argued to be the "Debbie Harry" of this generation, IMHO. I happened to be looking for a performance of this song on YouTube while reading DHSIF, and this particular video of the song begins with a request from a boy to hear "Poster of a Girl," and this boy echoes very similar sentiments of Johnny:

Straight from the sleeve, and I couldn't agree more, "this witty and tender novel introduces shades of gray into the black-and-white ideas of sexuality and gender." Johnny's serious struggles and silly triumphs interwoven with musical insights and discoveries are strange, yet familiar, and very entertaining. It would be very appropriate for liberal high school teaching and contribute to discussions on social relationships, sexual self-discovery, and drug abuse. I give this book "two hands-with-rock-horns" up. Any book that involves teenagers arguing over their favorite Beatle is one that I support.

What did she get her self into?

Blacklisted By Gena Showalter.

In a world shared by humans and aliens, Camille seems to have everything going for her in life; she is a straight A student who also obeys her parents.

Camille's life Is pretty simple until she finds herself wanting the attention of Erik, a boy she has had a crush on for a while. She soon finds out that Erik will be at a hot club, hanging out with some friends. In hopes of finding him, Camille goes to the hot club, But she gets more than she had bargained for. Erik is under investigation by the A.I.R, which stands for Alien Investigation and Removal. It seems that Erik is hiding a big secret. Camille finds out through her time with Erik that sometimes you have to do bad things for a good reason.

Blacklisted offers its readers a journey through a sci-fi world with young romantic elements that drives the plot of the story. It challenges the questions of what does the individual do when the government over governs and lives are at stake.

This book by Gena Showalter is exciting and fun, filled with sci-fi components that will keep young adults interested. The plot line may get a little edgy at some points with minor profanity and small notions of sexual contact. This book would be particularly good for an older students either juniors or seniors. Many students will be able to relate to young romance and the strange things they would do for it. Also it gives students an accurate judgment as to when to do something bad for a good reason. The book does this well and also include the ramifications of the decision.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DK7vVzns1fU This is a link to "Underworld" a series created by Gena Showalter. Just to have a visual representaion of her work. Pay attention to the edgy subject and the tension she makes her characters undergo. Very similer to that of Camille and Erik.