Below is a list of the entries found on this reading log. Though many of the entries are cross-listed in different categories, the majority of them have only been listed once here in order to avoid confusion. All images found on this blog have been taken from Amazon.
Print
Chick-Lit/Romance
Everneath - Brodi Ashton
Fantasy/Science Fiction/Horror
The Hunger Games- Suzanne Collins
Graphic Novel
Buffy the Vampire Slayer: the Long Way Home - Joss Whedon & Georges Jeanty
Persepolis: the Story of a Childhood - Marjane Satrapi
Historical/Classic
The Pigman - Paul Zindel
A Summer to Die - Lois Lowry
LGBTQ Fiction
Ask the Passengers - A. S. King
Boy Meets Boy - David Levithan
Parrotfish - Ellen Wittlinger
Magazine
Teen Vogue
Teens Now Talk
Mystery/Thriller/Suspense
The Hippie House - Katherine Holubitsky
Nonfiction - Homework
After Gandhi: One Hundred Years of Nonviolent Resistance - Anne Sibley O'Brien & Perry Edmond O'Brien
Nonfiction - Recreational
Secret Lives of Great Composers: What Your Teachers Never Told You about the World's Musical Masters - Elizabeth Lunday
Realistic
Adam and Eve and Pinch-Me - Julie Johnston
Urban Fiction/Street Lit
Beneath a Meth Moon - Jaqueline Woodson
*Award-winning
The Fault in Our Stars - John Green
*Canadian
Stephen Fair - Tim Wynne-Jones
*Controversial/Challenged/Banned
The Hunger Games - Suzanne Collins
Nonprint
Audio Recordings
The Golden Compass - Philip Pullman
Red - Taylor Swift
Library Websites for Teens
Banff Library Teen Site
Teens@VPL
Video
"Warm Bodies"
"The Perks of Being a Wallflower"
"Crash Course: English Literature" - John Green
"Red" - Taylor Swift
Overview and Evaluative Comments
Swift's album consists of 16 tracks, which flow well. Though the lyrics are fairly simplistic and not overly insightful, the music is catchy. The mixing of musical genres (pop, pop-rock, and country) help widen the appeal of her music, and it is clear why Swift is currently one of the most popular artists, especially among teens.
Suggested audience
Grades 7-12
Reason for inclusion
One of the most popular pop artists of today
Category
Audio Recording, Music
Everneath - Brodi Ashton
Ashton, B. (2012). Everneath. New York: Balzer + Bray.
Summary
Nikki has returned to her normal life after spending a hundred years in the Everneath. For everyone else, though, she has only been missing for six months. As she tries to make amends with the people who have missed her, and as she searches for redemption, she is all too aware that her time is limited. After another six months, she will have to return permanently to the Everneath. Her only other choice is too help Cole, the immortal who took her to the Everneath, take over the throne, but to do this, she herself will have to become an immortal.
Evaluative comments
This book has an interesting premise, based on the Persephone myth, and successfully parallels this myth. However, this is done with little subtlety, as though Ashton is afraid that if these parallels are not constantly spelled out, the reader will not understand them. Consequently, the references to Greek mythology at times feels very jolting, lifting the reader out of the story and reminding them that they are, in fact, reading a book. Furthermore, the characters' personalities and motivations at times seem inconsistent. While Nikki usually seems to be a self assured, independent young woman, she inevitably falls into the current trend of female characters who fall apart as soon as a handsome young man who pays them the slightest attention. Despite this, the story is compelling, and the writing, for the most part, effectively holds the reader's attention.
This book has an interesting premise, based on the Persephone myth, and successfully parallels this myth. However, this is done with little subtlety, as though Ashton is afraid that if these parallels are not constantly spelled out, the reader will not understand them. Consequently, the references to Greek mythology at times feels very jolting, lifting the reader out of the story and reminding them that they are, in fact, reading a book. Furthermore, the characters' personalities and motivations at times seem inconsistent. While Nikki usually seems to be a self assured, independent young woman, she inevitably falls into the current trend of female characters who fall apart as soon as a handsome young man who pays them the slightest attention. Despite this, the story is compelling, and the writing, for the most part, effectively holds the reader's attention.
Suggested audience
Grades 9-12
Grades 9-12
Reader’s advisory notes
Appeal terms - Bleak, mystical, menacing
Read-alikes - Twilight, Stephanie Meyer, Evermore, Alyson Noël
Appeal terms - Bleak, mystical, menacing
Read-alikes - Twilight, Stephanie Meyer, Evermore, Alyson Noël
Booktalking hook
Talk about the myth of Persephone - what would you do?
Talk about the myth of Persephone - what would you do?
Reason for inclusion
Everneath falls into the paranormal romantic category, which has been a very popular genre among teens.
Everneath falls into the paranormal romantic category, which has been a very popular genre among teens.
Category
Chick-Lit/Romance, Fantasy/Science Fiction/Horror
Chick-Lit/Romance, Fantasy/Science Fiction/Horror
The Hunger Games - Suzanne Collins
Summary
In a dystopian future, children from different districts are selected to participate in the Hunger Games, a fight to the death that is watched live by all citizens. When Katniss Everdeen's younger sister is selected, Katniss volunteers to take her place. She is sent to the Capitol in order to be prepared for the games, thrown together with Peeta, a boy from her district. As the games begin, Katniss must try to balance her will survive with her determination not to become a puppet in the Capitol's game.
In a dystopian future, children from different districts are selected to participate in the Hunger Games, a fight to the death that is watched live by all citizens. When Katniss Everdeen's younger sister is selected, Katniss volunteers to take her place. She is sent to the Capitol in order to be prepared for the games, thrown together with Peeta, a boy from her district. As the games begin, Katniss must try to balance her will survive with her determination not to become a puppet in the Capitol's game.
Evaluative comments
From the first pages of The Hunger Games, the reader is immersed in the very distinct world Collins creates. While the plot is well-paced and compellingly intricate, it never supplants the strong character development. Though the writing is slightly uneven at times, the strength of Katniss' character and the suspense and intrigue built up through the novel will not only hook readers until the ending, but will encourage many of them to go out and get the next book in the series. The wide appeal of the novel explains why this series is such a huge phenomenon in the YA publishing world.
From the first pages of The Hunger Games, the reader is immersed in the very distinct world Collins creates. While the plot is well-paced and compellingly intricate, it never supplants the strong character development. Though the writing is slightly uneven at times, the strength of Katniss' character and the suspense and intrigue built up through the novel will not only hook readers until the ending, but will encourage many of them to go out and get the next book in the series. The wide appeal of the novel explains why this series is such a huge phenomenon in the YA publishing world.
Suggested audience
Grades 8-12
Grades 8-12
Reader’s advisory notes
Appeal terms - Action-packed, world-building, fast-paced, disturbing, bleak, suspenseful, menacing, gritty
Read-alikes - Catching Fire and Mockingjay, Suzanne Collins (series continuation); Birthmarked, Caragh M. O'Brien; Graceling, Kristin Cashore
Appeal terms - Action-packed, world-building, fast-paced, disturbing, bleak, suspenseful, menacing, gritty
Read-alikes - Catching Fire and Mockingjay, Suzanne Collins (series continuation); Birthmarked, Caragh M. O'Brien; Graceling, Kristin Cashore
Booktalking hook
Set up the story by describing the history and premise the annual Hunger Games.
Set up the story by describing the history and premise the annual Hunger Games.
Reason for inclusion
This book is the first entry in one of the most popular and bestelling YA series of the last decade.
Awards and Honours (selection) - Cybil Award - Fantasy & Science Fiction, 2008; YALSA'S Teens' Top Ten, 2009; A Kirkus Best Book, 2008; ALA Top Ten Best Books for Young Adults Selection
This book is the first entry in one of the most popular and bestelling YA series of the last decade.
Awards and Honours (selection) - Cybil Award - Fantasy & Science Fiction, 2008; YALSA'S Teens' Top Ten, 2009; A Kirkus Best Book, 2008; ALA Top Ten Best Books for Young Adults Selection
Category
Fantasy/Science Fiction/Horror, Controversial/Challenged/Banned, Award-Winning
Fantasy/Science Fiction/Horror, Controversial/Challenged/Banned, Award-Winning
Buffy the Vampire Slayer: the Long Way Home - Joss Whedon and Georges Jeanty
Summary
Buffy the Vampire Slayer: the Long Way Home contains the first four issues of the Buffy comics. The story immediately follows the last season of the TV show, "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" and focuses on Buffy, Xander, and Willow.
Evaluative comments
Fans of the popular TV show will enjoy this opportunity to continue the story. The change in medium allows for the story to become more fantastic with more "special effects." The art is dynamic and attractive, and the story is compelling and in keeping with the tone and style of the TV show. Though the graphic novel format may not be attractive to all the show's fans, it is clear from the presence of later books that this format has developed its own following.
Fans of the popular TV show will enjoy this opportunity to continue the story. The change in medium allows for the story to become more fantastic with more "special effects." The art is dynamic and attractive, and the story is compelling and in keeping with the tone and style of the TV show. Though the graphic novel format may not be attractive to all the show's fans, it is clear from the presence of later books that this format has developed its own following.
Suggested audience
Grades 7-12
Grades 7-12
Reader’s advisory notes
Appeal terms - Action-packed, fast-paced, suspenseful, amusing, offbeat, steamy
Read-alikes - Tales of the Slayers, Joss Whedon; Runaways, Brian K. Vaughan
Appeal terms - Action-packed, fast-paced, suspenseful, amusing, offbeat, steamy
Read-alikes - Tales of the Slayers, Joss Whedon; Runaways, Brian K. Vaughan
Booktalking hook
Show the full page character portraits scattered throughout, and talk a bit about where the story ended in the TV show.
Show the full page character portraits scattered throughout, and talk a bit about where the story ended in the TV show.
Reason for inclusion
A popular graphic novel continuation of a classic teen TV show
A popular graphic novel continuation of a classic teen TV show
Category
Graphic Novel, Fantasy/Science Fiction/Horror
Graphic Novel, Fantasy/Science Fiction/Horror
Persepolis: the Story of a Childhood - Marjane Satrapi
Summary
Persepolis: the Story of a Childhood is the autobiographical story of Marjane Satrapi's childhood in Iran, told through black and white comic strips. Beginning with the fall of the Shah, and continuing through the Islamic Revolution and the war between Iran and Iraq, we see Marjane's and her parents' everyday life, as well as the hardships they face during this period of history.
Persepolis: the Story of a Childhood is the autobiographical story of Marjane Satrapi's childhood in Iran, told through black and white comic strips. Beginning with the fall of the Shah, and continuing through the Islamic Revolution and the war between Iran and Iraq, we see Marjane's and her parents' everyday life, as well as the hardships they face during this period of history.
Evaluative comments
This is an extremely well written and drawn graphic novel. Satrapi draws the reader in, both through the writing of each episode, and through her stark images. Appropriately, the book does not shy away from heavier topics, but there is a certain level of humour that prevents the book from becoming overwhelmingly dark. Not only is the story captivating, but it also presents an informative point of view on this particular period of Iranian history.
This is an extremely well written and drawn graphic novel. Satrapi draws the reader in, both through the writing of each episode, and through her stark images. Appropriately, the book does not shy away from heavier topics, but there is a certain level of humour that prevents the book from becoming overwhelmingly dark. Not only is the story captivating, but it also presents an informative point of view on this particular period of Iranian history.
Suggested audience
Grades 9-12
Grades 9-12
Reader’s advisory notes
Appeal terms - Plot-driven, strong sense of place, disturbing, though-provoking
Read-alikes - Persepolis 2: The Story of a Return, Marjane Satrapi (sequel); Maus: A Survival's Tale, Art Spiegelman
Appeal terms - Plot-driven, strong sense of place, disturbing, though-provoking
Read-alikes - Persepolis 2: The Story of a Return, Marjane Satrapi (sequel); Maus: A Survival's Tale, Art Spiegelman
Booktalking hook
Read the last paragraph of the Introduction about Satrapi's reasons for writing Persepolis. Read and show "The Party" episode, pp. 40-46
Read the last paragraph of the Introduction about Satrapi's reasons for writing Persepolis. Read and show "The Party" episode, pp. 40-46
Reason for inclusion
Awards and Honours - Harvey Award, ALA Alex Award, 2004; Prix du Festival d'Angoulême for Alph-art du coup de coeur, 2001
Awards and Honours - Harvey Award, ALA Alex Award, 2004; Prix du Festival d'Angoulême for Alph-art du coup de coeur, 2001
Category
Graphic Novel, Realistic, Award-Winning
Graphic Novel, Realistic, Award-Winning
The Pigman - Paul Zindel
Summary
John and Lorraine are two high school friends, both of whom struggle with their home lives. In The Pigman, they tell the story of their experience befriending a lonely old man. Mr. Pignati lives alone in a house full of oddities. John and Lorraine spend an increasing amount of time with Mr. Pignati, whom they christen The Pigman.
John and Lorraine are two high school friends, both of whom struggle with their home lives. In The Pigman, they tell the story of their experience befriending a lonely old man. Mr. Pignati lives alone in a house full of oddities. John and Lorraine spend an increasing amount of time with Mr. Pignati, whom they christen The Pigman.
Evaluative
comments
The Pigman is a classic young adult novel, having retained its popularity for 40 years. Its most interesting aspect is that it switches back and forth between John and Lorraine as narrators. As a result, the two characters are both given a clear, developed voice, and readers gain insight into both of their perspectives. The contrast between their narrative styles also gives the book a fresh tone. The story is interesting, but suffers from its short length. It feels as though as the reader is being drawn in, the story ends quite abruptly. Despite this, it is interesting to read for the portrayal of the characters alone.
The Pigman is a classic young adult novel, having retained its popularity for 40 years. Its most interesting aspect is that it switches back and forth between John and Lorraine as narrators. As a result, the two characters are both given a clear, developed voice, and readers gain insight into both of their perspectives. The contrast between their narrative styles also gives the book a fresh tone. The story is interesting, but suffers from its short length. It feels as though as the reader is being drawn in, the story ends quite abruptly. Despite this, it is interesting to read for the portrayal of the characters alone.
Suggested audience
Grades 7-10
Grades 7-10
Reader’s advisory notes
Appeal terms - Offbeat, sarcastic, amusing, conversational, experimental
Read-alikes - The Pigman's Legacy, Paul Zindel (sequel); John Belushi is Dead, Kathy Charles
Appeal terms - Offbeat, sarcastic, amusing, conversational, experimental
Read-alikes - The Pigman's Legacy, Paul Zindel (sequel); John Belushi is Dead, Kathy Charles
Booktalking hook
Read prank phone call with Mr. Pignati passage: pp. 22-28
Read prank phone call with Mr. Pignati passage: pp. 22-28
Reason for inclusion
Enduring classic; included in YALSA's "Ultimate YA Bookshelf"
Awards and Honours - ALA Best of the Best Books for Young Adults; New York Times Outstanding Book of the Year
Category
Historical/Classic, Realistic
Historical/Classic, Realistic
Ask the Passengers - A. S. King
Summary
Astrid is intent on keeping the different parts of her life separate. At school, she is entrusted with the secret that her two friends, whom everyone thinks is the perfect couple, are actually gay. At home, she struggles with an overbearing mother, an disengaged father, and a perfect little sister. At her work, she is falling in love with another girl. As Astrid tries to define herself and figure out how to fit neatly into the labels she abhors, she lies on a picnic table in her backyard, sending her love to the passengers on the planes overhead.
Astrid is intent on keeping the different parts of her life separate. At school, she is entrusted with the secret that her two friends, whom everyone thinks is the perfect couple, are actually gay. At home, she struggles with an overbearing mother, an disengaged father, and a perfect little sister. At her work, she is falling in love with another girl. As Astrid tries to define herself and figure out how to fit neatly into the labels she abhors, she lies on a picnic table in her backyard, sending her love to the passengers on the planes overhead.
Evaluative comments
Ask the Passengers is a thoughtful novel, which is lyrically written. Astrid's imagined version of "Frank" Socrates and the short passages about airplane passengers successfully add a distinguishing element to the novel. King wisely avoids trying to give easy solutions to Astrid's struggles with her family and her sexuality, allowing for development in individual characters and their relationships without unbelievably neat resolutions. Astrid's reluctance to label herself provokes an interesting examination of discovering sexuality and the prejudices that arise from multiple communities. Within a novel with compelling characters and an interesting narrative structure, Ask the Passengers presents a fresh perspective of self-discovery.
Ask the Passengers is a thoughtful novel, which is lyrically written. Astrid's imagined version of "Frank" Socrates and the short passages about airplane passengers successfully add a distinguishing element to the novel. King wisely avoids trying to give easy solutions to Astrid's struggles with her family and her sexuality, allowing for development in individual characters and their relationships without unbelievably neat resolutions. Astrid's reluctance to label herself provokes an interesting examination of discovering sexuality and the prejudices that arise from multiple communities. Within a novel with compelling characters and an interesting narrative structure, Ask the Passengers presents a fresh perspective of self-discovery.
Suggested audience
Grades 9-12
Grades 9-12
Reader’s advisory notes
Appeal terms - Character-driven, issue-oriented, leisurely paced, reflective, thought-provoking, experimental
Read-alikes - The Perks of Being a Wallflower, Stephen Chbosky
Appeal terms - Character-driven, issue-oriented, leisurely paced, reflective, thought-provoking, experimental
Read-alikes - The Perks of Being a Wallflower, Stephen Chbosky
Booktalking hook
Read prologue on p. 1
Read prologue on p. 1
Reason for inclusion
Category
LGBTQ, Realistic
LGBTQ, Realistic
Boy Meets Boy - David Levithan
Summary
Paul is a high school sophomore, very involved in his school, and spends his free time with his close group of friends. When he meets Noah, a new boy at school, Paul quickly falls for him. But when things get complicated with Paul's ex, he has to find a way to win Noah back.
Evaluative comments
Levithan creates an ideal high school, where sexuality and gender identity are not an issue and don't affect students' popularity. As a result, his book is upbeat and positive in a way that many LGBTQ books are not, giving a refreshing new perspective. The characters and their relationships are well developed and the humour in the novel hits a perfect note. The only shortcoming is that the story seems almost too short, and consequently feels a little rushed at times. Despite that, this book is well worth reading and sharing with teens.
Levithan creates an ideal high school, where sexuality and gender identity are not an issue and don't affect students' popularity. As a result, his book is upbeat and positive in a way that many LGBTQ books are not, giving a refreshing new perspective. The characters and their relationships are well developed and the humour in the novel hits a perfect note. The only shortcoming is that the story seems almost too short, and consequently feels a little rushed at times. Despite that, this book is well worth reading and sharing with teens.
Suggested audience
Grades 9-12
Grades 9-12
Reader’s advisory notes
Appeal terms - Character-driven, amusing, romantic
Read-alikes - Absolutely, Positively Nice, David LaRochelle; My Most Excellent Year: a Novel of Love, Mary Poppins, & Fenway Park, Steve Kluger
Appeal terms - Character-driven, amusing, romantic
Read-alikes - Absolutely, Positively Nice, David LaRochelle; My Most Excellent Year: a Novel of Love, Mary Poppins, & Fenway Park, Steve Kluger
Booktalking hook
Read Paul meeting Noah at the bookstore for the first time (pp. 3-4)
Read Paul meeting Noah at the bookstore for the first time (pp. 3-4)
Reason for inclusion
Awards and Honours - Lambda Literary Award - Children/Young Adult, 2004; Booklist Best Books for Young Adults, 2004
Awards and Honours - Lambda Literary Award - Children/Young Adult, 2004; Booklist Best Books for Young Adults, 2004
Category
LGBTQ, Realistic, Award-Winning
LGBTQ, Realistic, Award-Winning
Parrotfish - Ellen Wittlinger
Summary
Grady knows he's a boy, but almost everyone still insists on calling him Angela. His family treats his transition as a phase, and his former best friend shuns him at school. As others at school begin to torment him, Grady discovers new friends who accept his true identity.
Grady knows he's a boy, but almost everyone still insists on calling him Angela. His family treats his transition as a phase, and his former best friend shuns him at school. As others at school begin to torment him, Grady discovers new friends who accept his true identity.
Evaluative comments
Parrotfish is one of the few teen books with a transgender main character. Through Grady, Wittlinger reflects on issues such as gender identity, transphobia, and gender stereotypes in a sensitive manner. The characters are fully developed, and while Grady's transition certainly provides the primary context for the novel, there are episodes and events that are not directly related. This wider focus lends the book more depth and saves it from becoming preachy.
Parrotfish is one of the few teen books with a transgender main character. Through Grady, Wittlinger reflects on issues such as gender identity, transphobia, and gender stereotypes in a sensitive manner. The characters are fully developed, and while Grady's transition certainly provides the primary context for the novel, there are episodes and events that are not directly related. This wider focus lends the book more depth and saves it from becoming preachy.
Suggested audience
Grades 9-12
Grades 9-12
Reader’s advisory notes
Appeal terms - Issue-oriented, character-driven, leisurely paced, angst-filled, emotionally intense, reflective, thoughtful
Read-alikes - I am J, Cris Beam; Luna, Julie Anne Peters
Appeal terms - Issue-oriented, character-driven, leisurely paced, angst-filled, emotionally intense, reflective, thoughtful
Read-alikes - I am J, Cris Beam; Luna, Julie Anne Peters
Booktalking hook
Read Grady's imagined dialogues between his sister and mother (pp. 7-8) and between him and his former best friend (pp. 14-15)
Reason for inclusion
Awards and Honours - Finalist, Lambda Literary Awards, 2008; NYPL Books for the Teen Age list, 2008; Nominated: ALA Stonewall Awards, 2008; Advocate Top Picks for Trans YA Fiction
ALA Rainbow List, 2008; Nominated: Cybils, 2007
ALA Rainbow List, 2008; Nominated: Cybils, 2007
Category
LGBTQ, Realistic, Award-Winning
LGBTQ, Realistic, Award-Winning
Teen Vogue
Condé Nast. (2013). Teen vogue, 13(3). New York.
Summary
Teen Vogue is the teen version of the very well known Vogue fashion magazine. This issue includes many fashion articles and layouts, some focusing on prom, as well as some profiles and features on popular singers and athletes.
Summary
Teen Vogue is the teen version of the very well known Vogue fashion magazine. This issue includes many fashion articles and layouts, some focusing on prom, as well as some profiles and features on popular singers and athletes.
Evaluative comments
Teen Vogue is quite upscale, concentrating on teen fashion, though not fashion that most teens will realistically be able to afford or have occasion to display. However, it is certainly of interest, and includes enough features on fashion adjacent subjects that help add some variety. Most importantly, though it is targeted specifically at teens, it maintains the "highbrow" tone of Vogue, and is not at all condescending.
Teen Vogue is quite upscale, concentrating on teen fashion, though not fashion that most teens will realistically be able to afford or have occasion to display. However, it is certainly of interest, and includes enough features on fashion adjacent subjects that help add some variety. Most importantly, though it is targeted specifically at teens, it maintains the "highbrow" tone of Vogue, and is not at all condescending.
Suggested audience
Grades 9-12
Grades 9-12
Reason for inclusion
The teen edition of a very popular international magazine
The teen edition of a very popular international magazine
Category
Magazine
Magazine
Teens Now Talk
Teens Now Talk Magazine Publishing. (2013). Teens now talk, 6(1). Timberlea.
Summary
Teens Now Talk is a local Halifax magazine for teens. Its most notable feature is that it is written entirely by teen contributors. In this particular issue, there are various articles and features touching on a wide variety of subjects, including career paths, prom fashion, dating advice, health issues, popular reading, and poems written by the contributors.
Summary
Teens Now Talk is a local Halifax magazine for teens. Its most notable feature is that it is written entirely by teen contributors. In this particular issue, there are various articles and features touching on a wide variety of subjects, including career paths, prom fashion, dating advice, health issues, popular reading, and poems written by the contributors.
Evaluative comments
This is a very successfully put together teen magazine. Having exclusively teen contributors ensures that topics are relevant and of interest to fellow teens. As it covers so many different subjects, it also has something for everyone in it. Furthermore, the articles and features themselves are well written and designed, and provide good resources and references for more in depth research.
This is a very successfully put together teen magazine. Having exclusively teen contributors ensures that topics are relevant and of interest to fellow teens. As it covers so many different subjects, it also has something for everyone in it. Furthermore, the articles and features themselves are well written and designed, and provide good resources and references for more in depth research.
Suggested audience
Grades 9-12
Grades 9-12
Reason for inclusion
This magazine for teens is particularly relevant for local teens.
This magazine for teens is particularly relevant for local teens.
Category
Magazine
Magazine
The Hippie House - Katherine Holubitsky
Holubitsky, K. (2004). The hippie house. Victoria: Orca.
Summary
Emma, her brother, and their friends are enjoying an ideal summer, with their own private gathering place on their family's farm. As this cabin becomes more popular with the local youth, it is dubbed "The Hippie House." As summer winds down and school resumes, the Hippie House becomes less used, and is largely forgotten. However, when a local young woman goes missing, and is found a month later in the Hippie House, Emma's family is haunted by the constant reminder of her brutal murder. As months pass without finding the murderer, their small community becomes more and more nervous.
Emma, her brother, and their friends are enjoying an ideal summer, with their own private gathering place on their family's farm. As this cabin becomes more popular with the local youth, it is dubbed "The Hippie House." As summer winds down and school resumes, the Hippie House becomes less used, and is largely forgotten. However, when a local young woman goes missing, and is found a month later in the Hippie House, Emma's family is haunted by the constant reminder of her brutal murder. As months pass without finding the murderer, their small community becomes more and more nervous.
Evaluative comments
The Hippie House juxtaposes an almost idealized youth with an unthinkable crime. As the story progresses and the mystery remains unsolved, Holubitsky slowly builds a tenser tone that matches the tension in the book's small town. By taking the time to establish characters before the book's turning point, Holubitsky also effectively demonstrates the strains and changes of the characters' relationships with family, neighbours, and acquaintances, and how quickly former trusts are questioned and forgotten. Indeed, in many ways, the focus of the novel is as much on how the book's events affect the characters as it is about solving the mystery. The balance between these two aspects grounds the book in reality, and allows the reader to experience the drawn out mystery along with the characters.
The Hippie House juxtaposes an almost idealized youth with an unthinkable crime. As the story progresses and the mystery remains unsolved, Holubitsky slowly builds a tenser tone that matches the tension in the book's small town. By taking the time to establish characters before the book's turning point, Holubitsky also effectively demonstrates the strains and changes of the characters' relationships with family, neighbours, and acquaintances, and how quickly former trusts are questioned and forgotten. Indeed, in many ways, the focus of the novel is as much on how the book's events affect the characters as it is about solving the mystery. The balance between these two aspects grounds the book in reality, and allows the reader to experience the drawn out mystery along with the characters.
Suggested audience
Grades 7-10
Grades 7-10
Reader’s advisory notes
Appeal terms - Plot-driven, bleak, creepy, disturbing, suspenseful, compelling
Read-alikes - Northern Light, Jennifer Donnelly
Appeal terms - Plot-driven, bleak, creepy, disturbing, suspenseful, compelling
Read-alikes - Northern Light, Jennifer Donnelly
Booktalking hook
Read passage on pp. 100-102
Read passage on pp. 100-102
Reason for inclusion
Katherine Holubitsky is an award winning Canadian YA author.
Katherine Holubitsky is an award winning Canadian YA author.
Category
Canadian, Mystery/Thriller/Suspense
Canadian, Mystery/Thriller/Suspense
After Gandhi: One Hundred Years of Nonviolent Resistance - Anne Sibley O'Brien & Perry Edmond O'Brien
O'Brien, A. S. & O'Brien, P. E. (2009). After Gandhi: one hundred years of nonviolent resistance. Watertown: Charlesbridge.
Summary
This book traces some of the most notable nonviolent movements of the 20th century. Beginning with Gandhi, and tracing resistances all around the world, including South Africa, Australia, USA, Ireland, Kenya, this resource provides a global view of nonviolent resistance.
Evaluative comments
This book presents its facts in a variety of ways including narratives of a very specific event, more straightforward historical overviews, and profiles of individual key people. Though each instance of resistance is only touched on briefly, this resource provides interesting insight to the evolution of nonviolence. Its brevity works in its favour, as it will not lose its readers, but instead help introduce them to many nonviolent movements.
Suggested audience
Grades 9-12
Reader’s advisory notes
Appeal terms - impassioned, easy to understand, browsable
Booktalking hook
Read the introduction, which begins with a brief summary of Gandhi's nonviolent resistance and his influence around the world (pp. 1-4).
Reason for inclusion
An informative book on an interesting subject, written in an appealing style
Category
Nonfiction - Homework
Summary
This book traces some of the most notable nonviolent movements of the 20th century. Beginning with Gandhi, and tracing resistances all around the world, including South Africa, Australia, USA, Ireland, Kenya, this resource provides a global view of nonviolent resistance.
Evaluative comments
This book presents its facts in a variety of ways including narratives of a very specific event, more straightforward historical overviews, and profiles of individual key people. Though each instance of resistance is only touched on briefly, this resource provides interesting insight to the evolution of nonviolence. Its brevity works in its favour, as it will not lose its readers, but instead help introduce them to many nonviolent movements.
Suggested audience
Grades 9-12
Reader’s advisory notes
Appeal terms - impassioned, easy to understand, browsable
Booktalking hook
Read the introduction, which begins with a brief summary of Gandhi's nonviolent resistance and his influence around the world (pp. 1-4).
Reason for inclusion
An informative book on an interesting subject, written in an appealing style
Category
Nonfiction - Homework
Secret Lives of Great Composers: What Your Teachers Never Told You about the World's Musical Masters - Elizabeth Lunday
Summary
This book is full of fun, hilarious anecdotes about some of the world's most well known composers. From their romantic lives to their odd quirks and quotes to some of the less positive critique of their works, this book has it all.
Evaluative comments This is a great book to engage young readers in the biographies of composers. While the tone is certainly humourous and flippant, it is still full of very interesting and informative facts. Episodes and anecdotes are told briefly, in a few paragraphs, and sidebars are scattered throughout the book, making it a fun book to read straight through, or simply to browse. While it may not be the most useful book for actual musical theory, it is a great book for entertainment.
Suggested audience
Grades 9-12
Reader’s advisory notes
Appeal terms - Funny, offbeat, browsable
Booktalking hook
Read the introduction, which includes references to some of the more outrageous anecdotes found throughout the book (pp. 7-8)
Reason for inclusion
A fun, hilarious book that will appeal to teens
Category
Nonfiction - Recreational
A Summer to Die - Lois Lowry
Summary
Meg, her older sister Molly, and their parents are moving to the country for one year, so that their father can write his book. Meg and Molly share a room, and their relationship becomes more and more strained as a result. When Molly gets sick, though, Meg, with the help of her new neighbours and friends, begins to gain a new perspective on their relationship.
Meg, her older sister Molly, and their parents are moving to the country for one year, so that their father can write his book. Meg and Molly share a room, and their relationship becomes more and more strained as a result. When Molly gets sick, though, Meg, with the help of her new neighbours and friends, begins to gain a new perspective on their relationship.
Evaluative comments
Lowry is an incredible versatile writer, having written both very bleak and very funny books. A Summer to Die, her first novel, reveals yet another facet of her writing, as it deals with tragedy, but with a hopeful, sensitive tone. Her writing effortlessly draws readers in, and her imagery is well expressed and effectively adds a layer of depth to both the story and the characters.
Lowry is an incredible versatile writer, having written both very bleak and very funny books. A Summer to Die, her first novel, reveals yet another facet of her writing, as it deals with tragedy, but with a hopeful, sensitive tone. Her writing effortlessly draws readers in, and her imagery is well expressed and effectively adds a layer of depth to both the story and the characters.
Suggested audience
Grades 7-10
Grades 7-10
Reader’s advisory notes
Appeal terms - Character-driven, atmospheric, reflective, bittersweet, moving,
Read-alikes - A House Like a Lotas, Madeleine L'Engle; Jacob Have I Loved, Katherine Paterson
Booktalking hook
Read the beginning passage, which introduces Meg and her relationship with her sister, Molly (pp. 1-3)
Read the beginning passage, which introduces Meg and her relationship with her sister, Molly (pp. 1-3)
Reason for inclusion
Lois Lowry is a well-established YA author with many award-winning books to her name.
Awards for A Summer to Die - An ALA Notable Book for Children; An International Reading Association Children’s Book Award; A School Library Journal Best Book for Spring
Lois Lowry is a well-established YA author with many award-winning books to her name.
Awards for A Summer to Die - An ALA Notable Book for Children; An International Reading Association Children’s Book Award; A School Library Journal Best Book for Spring
Category
Historical/Classic, Realistic
Historical/Classic, Realistic
Adam and Eve and Pinch-Me - Julie Johnston
Summary
Fifteen-year-old Sara Moone has been in the foster care system for most of her life. When she turns sixteen, she will be able to leave foster care, and she plans to head north, the most remote location she can think of. Her final placement is on a farm in Ontario, with the Huddleston and two other foster sons. As she counts down the days until her sixteenth birthday, she writes about her daily life on her only friend, her computer.
Evaluative comments
Suggested audience
Grades 7-12
Grades 7-12
Reader’s advisory notes
Appeal terms - character-driven, leisurely paced, amusing, bittersweet, moving, reflective, sarcastic, conversational,
Read-alikes - Pinballs, Betsy Byars; Alice, I Think, Susan Juby
Appeal terms - character-driven, leisurely paced, amusing, bittersweet, moving, reflective, sarcastic, conversational,
Read-alikes - Pinballs, Betsy Byars; Alice, I Think, Susan Juby
Booktalking hook
Read the passage where Sara is explaining why she has no interest in finding her birth mother and her own future plans (p. 27)
Read the passage where Sara is explaining why she has no interest in finding her birth mother and her own future plans (p. 27)
Reason for inclusion
Awards and Honours - 1994 Governor General's Award; 1995 CLA Young Adult Book Award
Awards and Honours - 1994 Governor General's Award; 1995 CLA Young Adult Book Award
Category
Canadian, Realistic, Award-Winning
Canadian, Realistic, Award-Winning
Beneath a Meth Moon - Jaqueline Woodson
Summary
In Beneath a Meth Moon, Laurel tells the story of her descent into a meth addiction and her journey to recovery. After her mother and grandmother are killed in a hurricane, Laurel, her father, and her younger brother move to a new state in an attempt to start over. At first, Laurel seems to adjust well to her new life, joining the cheerleading squad. However, when she is first introduced to crystal meth, she turns to it as a way to escape her haunting past.
In Beneath a Meth Moon, Laurel tells the story of her descent into a meth addiction and her journey to recovery. After her mother and grandmother are killed in a hurricane, Laurel, her father, and her younger brother move to a new state in an attempt to start over. At first, Laurel seems to adjust well to her new life, joining the cheerleading squad. However, when she is first introduced to crystal meth, she turns to it as a way to escape her haunting past.
Evaluative comments
Beneath a Meth Moon does not shy away from the dark realities of drug addiction. Laurel's life on the street is harsh and seemingly hopeless, as she loses herself more and more to her addiction. Woodson's choice to set the majority of the story as a flashback of a sober Laurel takes away any suspense on whether Laurel will recover. Instead the story focuses on the Laurel's emotional journey and psychological state, allowing readers to immerse themselves in her character. The balance between despair and optimism is well achieved, and Woodson's refusal to gloss over Laurel's trials lends an important realism to this book.
Beneath a Meth Moon does not shy away from the dark realities of drug addiction. Laurel's life on the street is harsh and seemingly hopeless, as she loses herself more and more to her addiction. Woodson's choice to set the majority of the story as a flashback of a sober Laurel takes away any suspense on whether Laurel will recover. Instead the story focuses on the Laurel's emotional journey and psychological state, allowing readers to immerse themselves in her character. The balance between despair and optimism is well achieved, and Woodson's refusal to gloss over Laurel's trials lends an important realism to this book.
Suggested audience
Grades 9-12
Grades 9-12
Reader’s advisory notes
Appeal terms - Issue-oriented, melancholy, gritty, disturbing, slang-heavy, dialect-rich
Read-alikes - Crank, Ellen Hopkins; The Sharp Time, Mary O'Connell
Booktalking hook
Read Laurel's first meeting Moses. This episode opens the book, and it offers a snapshot of Laurel's life on the street, while hinting at what has happened to her family. (pp. 1-5)
Read Laurel's first meeting Moses. This episode opens the book, and it offers a snapshot of Laurel's life on the street, while hinting at what has happened to her family. (pp. 1-5)
Reason for inclusion
Awards and Honours - Kirkus Best Teen Books, 2012; YALSA Best Fiction for Young Adults, 2013
Awards and Honours - Kirkus Best Teen Books, 2012; YALSA Best Fiction for Young Adults, 2013
Category
Urban Fiction/Street Lit
The Fault in Our Stars - John Green
Summary
Hazel is a teenager living with terminal cancer. At her cancer support group, she meets Augustus, who has lost his leg to cancer. The two grow closer, bonding over their shared experience and Augustus' discovery of Hazel's favourite book.
Hazel is a teenager living with terminal cancer. At her cancer support group, she meets Augustus, who has lost his leg to cancer. The two grow closer, bonding over their shared experience and Augustus' discovery of Hazel's favourite book.
Evaluative
comments
This is an extremely moving book with an unexpected sense of humour. The premise of the book runs the risk of becoming cliche and trite, but Green's excellent writing and vivid, real characters transcend cliche. The characters are very frank about their illnesses, unafraid to consider and discuss their more serious thoughts about dying. However, they do so with a certain degree of humour and optimism, allowing the book to retain a bittersweet mood. The result is a story that will touch readers, and leave them with many things to think about.
This is an extremely moving book with an unexpected sense of humour. The premise of the book runs the risk of becoming cliche and trite, but Green's excellent writing and vivid, real characters transcend cliche. The characters are very frank about their illnesses, unafraid to consider and discuss their more serious thoughts about dying. However, they do so with a certain degree of humour and optimism, allowing the book to retain a bittersweet mood. The result is a story that will touch readers, and leave them with many things to think about.
Suggested audience
Grades 9-12
Grades 9-12
Reader’s advisory notes
Appeal terms - Character-driven, moving, bittersweet, emotionally intense, engaging
Read-alikes - How to Say Goodbye in Robot, Natalie Standiford; Before I Die, Jenny Downham
Appeal terms - Character-driven, moving, bittersweet, emotionally intense, engaging
Read-alikes - How to Say Goodbye in Robot, Natalie Standiford; Before I Die, Jenny Downham
Booktalking hook
Read episode in park behind the museum (pp. 85-90).
Read episode in park behind the museum (pp. 85-90).
Reason for inclusion
Awards and Honours - Booklist Editors' Choice - Books for Youth - Older Readers Category, 2012; Goodreads Choice Awards, 2012; Great Lakes, Great Books: Young Adult category; School Library Journal Best Books, 2012; YALSA Best Fiction for Young Adults, 2013
Awards and Honours - Booklist Editors' Choice - Books for Youth - Older Readers Category, 2012; Goodreads Choice Awards, 2012; Great Lakes, Great Books: Young Adult category; School Library Journal Best Books, 2012; YALSA Best Fiction for Young Adults, 2013
Category
Realistic, Award-Winning
Realistic, Award-Winning
Stephen Fair - Tim Wynne-Jones
Summary
Stephen Fair is having strange dreams. The strangest thing about them, though, is that they're the same dreams his brother had before he ran away. Stephen is sure that these dreams mean something, but his mother is growing more and more mysterious about why his father and brother left. Fortunately, Stephen has his friends, who have named themselves the "usual suspects," to keep him distracted from his growing sense of unease.
Stephen Fair is having strange dreams. The strangest thing about them, though, is that they're the same dreams his brother had before he ran away. Stephen is sure that these dreams mean something, but his mother is growing more and more mysterious about why his father and brother left. Fortunately, Stephen has his friends, who have named themselves the "usual suspects," to keep him distracted from his growing sense of unease.
Evaluative comments
Stephen Fair is an extraordinarily well-written novel, making excellent use of setting and imagery to add further depth to the story. The characters are fully formed, with their own particular quirks, but still very real. The references to the film "Casablanca" throughout the novel are well integrated, and serve to heighten the atmosphere of the story. This is a book I would highly recommend, and would be a very interesting book to read for a second time after knowing how it ends.
Stephen Fair is an extraordinarily well-written novel, making excellent use of setting and imagery to add further depth to the story. The characters are fully formed, with their own particular quirks, but still very real. The references to the film "Casablanca" throughout the novel are well integrated, and serve to heighten the atmosphere of the story. This is a book I would highly recommend, and would be a very interesting book to read for a second time after knowing how it ends.
Suggested audience
Grades 8-12
Grades 8-12
Reader’s advisory notes
Appeal terms - Character-driven, reflective, amusing, compelling,
Read-alikes - Zack, William Bell; Mistik Lake, Martha Brooks
Appeal terms - Character-driven, reflective, amusing, compelling,
Read-alikes - Zack, William Bell; Mistik Lake, Martha Brooks
Booktalking hook
Read Stephen's dream in the prologue
Read Stephen's dream in the prologue
Reason for inclusion
Tim Wynne-Jones is an award winning Canadian author.
Tim Wynne-Jones is an award winning Canadian author.
Category
Canadian, Realistic
Canadian, Realistic
The Golden Compass [Audiobook] - Philip Pullman
Summary
Lyra lives in Oxford University, surrounded by scholars, but longs for adventure. However, when her friend is kidnapped by the Gobblers, her adventure becomes all too real, as she must figure out who she can trust. Along her journey, she learns to use a very special instrument that was given to her, a golden compass, which she alone can read.
Lyra lives in Oxford University, surrounded by scholars, but longs for adventure. However, when her friend is kidnapped by the Gobblers, her adventure becomes all too real, as she must figure out who she can trust. Along her journey, she learns to use a very special instrument that was given to her, a golden compass, which she alone can read.
Evaluative comments
The Golden Compass is the first book in a trilogy. It is compelling from the very beginning, and keeps the audience interested throughout the series of adventures. The audiobook is narrated by the author, and the characters are performed by an entire cast. This is a smart choice, as the characters come alive without becoming caricatures. Though the music at the beginning of each chapter sometimes seems jarring, fortunately it does not continue into the actual narration.
Suggested audience
Grades 7-12
Grades 7-12
Reader’s advisory notes
Appeal terms - Action-packed, world-building, mystical, thought-provoking, stylistically complex
Read-alikes - The Subtle Knife, Philip Pullman & The Amber Spyglass, Philip Pullman (trilogy continuation)
Appeal terms - Action-packed, world-building, mystical, thought-provoking, stylistically complex
Read-alikes - The Subtle Knife, Philip Pullman & The Amber Spyglass, Philip Pullman (trilogy continuation)
Booktalking hook
Play the beginning of the audiobook
Play the beginning of the audiobook
Reason for inclusion
A very popular fantasy trilogy; narrated by the author
Category
Audio Recording, Controversial/Challenged/Banned, Fantasy/Science Fiction/Horror
Audio Recording, Controversial/Challenged/Banned, Fantasy/Science Fiction/Horror
Banff Library Teen Site
Banff Public Library. (n.d.). Banff Library teen site. Retrieved from http://www.banfflibrary.ab.ca/teen/
Overview
The site, on first impression, is not overly attractive. The colours are fairly dull and the images sparse. However, the interface is designed in such a way that it is very easy to navigate back and forth between the different pages on the site. The site does an extremely good job with readers advisory, but there is little else on the site.
Features
Recommended Books: On a sidebar, there are three recommended books. This is a smart way to feature some books, but the images and titles are not linked to the catalogue or any further information. Having these kinds of links would render this feature much more useful.
Reviews: The website has reviews written by both teens and the library staff. This section is well-organized, dividing books into fiction and non-fiction, and then further dividing these by genre. This is a very useful feature for quickly getting some book suggestions and ratings.
Events: This feature is currently empty. Whether this is due to a lack of programs or simply because it has not been updated is unclear. As it is shown right now, this feature is misleading and useless.
Reading Lists: This section contains some readers advisory lists made by the library. These lists include such titles as "Finished Harry Potter? Try these other fantasy quests" and "Girls Who Kick Some Serious @#&!." The lists are robust and have a wide variety within each one, but like the "Recommended Books" section would benefit from linking the books to the library's catalogue.
Links: This section provides some useful links for resources that might be useful for teens, from readers advisory, to university information, to zines.
Overview
The site, on first impression, is not overly attractive. The colours are fairly dull and the images sparse. However, the interface is designed in such a way that it is very easy to navigate back and forth between the different pages on the site. The site does an extremely good job with readers advisory, but there is little else on the site.
Features
Recommended Books: On a sidebar, there are three recommended books. This is a smart way to feature some books, but the images and titles are not linked to the catalogue or any further information. Having these kinds of links would render this feature much more useful.
Reviews: The website has reviews written by both teens and the library staff. This section is well-organized, dividing books into fiction and non-fiction, and then further dividing these by genre. This is a very useful feature for quickly getting some book suggestions and ratings.
Events: This feature is currently empty. Whether this is due to a lack of programs or simply because it has not been updated is unclear. As it is shown right now, this feature is misleading and useless.
Reading Lists: This section contains some readers advisory lists made by the library. These lists include such titles as "Finished Harry Potter? Try these other fantasy quests" and "Girls Who Kick Some Serious @#&!." The lists are robust and have a wide variety within each one, but like the "Recommended Books" section would benefit from linking the books to the library's catalogue.
Links: This section provides some useful links for resources that might be useful for teens, from readers advisory, to university information, to zines.
Suggested Improvements
As mentioned above, providing links from book information to the catalogue would be helpful for teens looking to retrieve these books. Additionally, it would be a good idea to expand the focus of the site beyond readers advisory to such things like community involvement and programs.
Suggested audience
Grades 7-12
As mentioned above, providing links from book information to the catalogue would be helpful for teens looking to retrieve these books. Additionally, it would be a good idea to expand the focus of the site beyond readers advisory to such things like community involvement and programs.
Suggested audience
Grades 7-12
Category
Library Website for Teens
Library Website for Teens
Teens@VPL
Vancouver Public Library. (2013). Teens@VPL - Home Page. Retrieved from http://teens.vpl.ca/
Overview
The interface of this site is quite sophisticated, but still easy to navigate. Colours are used sparsely, but are clear and attractive. Most importantly, the site is very well organized. Links are obvious, and entries are tagged in such a way to make lists searchable and easy to browse. Finally, links are provided to the library's main page and catalogue where appropriate and useful.
Features
Reviews: This section contains book, movie, music, and game recommendations from the library's teens. It also has reviews that are written by teens. While some of the information contained within is sparse, it is a good idea to have feedback and recommendations directly from other teens.
Homework Help: This feature provides a list of resources, retrievable by subject, as well as a list of databases available through the library that would be helpful for teens.
Community: This section provides a link to the teen Facebook page, the Teen Blog, and the Teen Advisory Group.
Events: The VPL Teen Events Calendar, found in this section, is currently empty. It is doubtful that there are no teen events in the upcoming months, so this section should be updated.
Overview
The interface of this site is quite sophisticated, but still easy to navigate. Colours are used sparsely, but are clear and attractive. Most importantly, the site is very well organized. Links are obvious, and entries are tagged in such a way to make lists searchable and easy to browse. Finally, links are provided to the library's main page and catalogue where appropriate and useful.
Features
Reviews: This section contains book, movie, music, and game recommendations from the library's teens. It also has reviews that are written by teens. While some of the information contained within is sparse, it is a good idea to have feedback and recommendations directly from other teens.
Homework Help: This feature provides a list of resources, retrievable by subject, as well as a list of databases available through the library that would be helpful for teens.
Community: This section provides a link to the teen Facebook page, the Teen Blog, and the Teen Advisory Group.
Events: The VPL Teen Events Calendar, found in this section, is currently empty. It is doubtful that there are no teen events in the upcoming months, so this section should be updated.
Suggested Improvements
Though it is important to have reviews and resources provided by teens, complimenting these with readers advisory tools from librarians would be helpful, especially to ensure that there are some more robust entries. Additionally, while the site seems to be fairly up-to-date and regularly monitored, sections like the Events Calendar should be updated.
Suggested audience
Grades 7-12Though it is important to have reviews and resources provided by teens, complimenting these with readers advisory tools from librarians would be helpful, especially to ensure that there are some more robust entries. Additionally, while the site seems to be fairly up-to-date and regularly monitored, sections like the Events Calendar should be updated.
Suggested audience
Category
Library Website for Teens
Library Website for Teens
Warm Bodies
Summary
R is a zombie who can't remember his name or his former life. He goes through each day the same way, barely moving, and barely communicating with his fellow zombies. When he saves Julie, a human girl, from his fellow zombies, though, he begins to fall in love with her. As they spend more time together, R begins to develop more human characteristics, but to all of the humans except Julie, he is still seen as a threat.
R is a zombie who can't remember his name or his former life. He goes through each day the same way, barely moving, and barely communicating with his fellow zombies. When he saves Julie, a human girl, from his fellow zombies, though, he begins to fall in love with her. As they spend more time together, R begins to develop more human characteristics, but to all of the humans except Julie, he is still seen as a threat.
Evaluative comments
This movie is extremely hilarious and entertaining. In addition to this, parts of it are also very sweet, as the romance between R and Julie begins to develop. It preserves a lighter tone for the most part, and its twist on the traditional zombie genre is refreshing and captivating. Balancing romance, horror, humour, and the paranormal, this movie has a wide appeal.
Suggested audience
Grades 7-12
Grades 7-12
Reason for inclusion
Recent popular movie
Recent popular movie
Category
Video, Fantasy/Science Fiction/Horror
Video, Fantasy/Science Fiction/Horror
The Perks of Being a Wallflower
Summary
Based on Stephen Chbosky's novel of the same name, The Perks of Being a Wallflower is about Charlie's first year of high school. Charlie is very shy, and still recovering from his friend's suicide. At his new school, he makes friends with Sam and Patrick, who take him under their wings. As Charlie grows closer to his friends, especially Sam, he begins to come out of his shell.
Based on Stephen Chbosky's novel of the same name, The Perks of Being a Wallflower is about Charlie's first year of high school. Charlie is very shy, and still recovering from his friend's suicide. At his new school, he makes friends with Sam and Patrick, who take him under their wings. As Charlie grows closer to his friends, especially Sam, he begins to come out of his shell.
Evaluative comments
This is an excellent movie, and an impressive adaptation of Chbosky's widely popular book. Chbosky's own involvement in the movie was a very smart choice, and his influence clearly shows. The performances are all extremely well done and nuanced. Especially impressive are the three actors playing Charlie, Sam, and Patrick, who successfully carry the movie. Though this movie does delve into some more disturbing issues, it ultimately balances this with an inspirational and uplifting tone. I would highly recommend this movie to any teen.
Suggested audience
Grades 9-12
Grades 9-12
Reason for inclusion
Based on a very popular YA novel; critically acclaimed
Based on a very popular YA novel; critically acclaimed
Category
Video, Realistic
Video, Realistic
"Crash Course: English Literature" - John Green
Green, J. (2013). "Crash Course: English Literature" [Youtube channel]. Retrieved from http://www.youtube.com/user/crashcourse/videos?view=0
Summary
"Crash Course" is a Youtube channel run by John and Hank Green with a series of videos on subjects like History, Chemistry, Biology, and Ecology. The English Literature series is written and performed by John Green, and covers Romeo and Juliet, The Great Gatsby, The Catcher in the Rye, and Emily Dickenson's poetry.
"Crash Course" is a Youtube channel run by John and Hank Green with a series of videos on subjects like History, Chemistry, Biology, and Ecology. The English Literature series is written and performed by John Green, and covers Romeo and Juliet, The Great Gatsby, The Catcher in the Rye, and Emily Dickenson's poetry.
Evaluative comments
This series of videos is extremely engaging and informative. The style is compelling, and has enough features, like the "open letter" segment and the animated "thought bubble" segment, to keep the videos dynamic. While the videos contain humour and irreverence, they do not shy away from delving into fairly deep literary analysis, including both textual analysis and broader philosophical questions about each work. I would highly recommend this particular series of videos, especially for those people who have difficulty being engaged in literature, as well as the other subject series found on this channel.
Suggested audience
Grades 9-12
Grades 9-12
Reason for inclusion
Educational Youtube channel from a popular YA novelist
Educational Youtube channel from a popular YA novelist
Category
Video, Youtube Channel
Video, Youtube Channel
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)