I chose this book to read because when my son came home with his 8th grade honors ELAR syllabus this novel was listed for them to read this year. I like to see what other teachers recommend, and I enjoy reading what my son does, so we can discuss it (he may not enjoy this as much). I am a big Jacqueline Woodson fan, and although I thought this book was fine, it is not my favorite by her. I do understand why the teacher chose this book, however. The novel centers around Haley and five of her friends who are part of a special class of students who need additional supports. They forge a bond over the school year with each other as their teacher creates a weekly space for them to talk. Through their discussions the reader learns about their family concerns as well as their societal concerns. Issues like death of parents, parents in prison, illegal immigration and how it can impact families, bullying, racial profiling and more. Some deep conversations can be had while reading this book; although, I am not convinced my son and his class are going to enjoy this book. I hope they do. I hope they have some enlightening conversations and learn about issues that teenagers often face behind the scenes. Maybe it will help them build some empathy and understanding for others. Approximate Grade Level - 5th-8th - The reading level of the text is something that could be handled in 4th or 5th grade; however, I am not sure most students of this age will be able to grasp all of the concepts discussed within the novel. I would personally recommend the book for middle school aged kids.
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In this collection of poems, the speaker tells a story of Gabby who struggles to focus in class because of her daydreams. The poems recount difficulties Gabby has with her mother as well as her feelings at the separation of her family. Gabby works hard to leave her daydreaming behind so she can be better accepted by her teachers, classmates, and mother. As the poems progress, the reader gets a glimpse into Gabby's thoughts and emotions. Eventually Gabby lands with a teacher who seems to understand her, and Gabby the dreamer begins to transition into Gabby the writer. The poems within the book are easily accessible by young adults who may connect with Gabby's thoughts and feelings. The poems are free verse in structure and are simple in vocabulary and poetry elements, but the collection as a whole tells a wonderful story about the importance of words and imagination Approximated Grade Level: 3rd-6th Last school year my reading intervention students and I read Freak the Mighty by Rodman Philbrick, and although it did not hold the attention of every students, the vast majority of them loved the book. The book is told from the perspective of Max who is a very large 7th grade boy who has gone through some trauma in his life (the death of his mother). As the story unfolds, the reader learns that Max has been labeled as having a "learning disability" and he has very little confidence in his abilities. Max lives in his grandparents basement and leads a somewhat uneventful adolescence until he gets some new neighbors. His neighbor turns out to be Kevin who is also in the 7th grade and has some challenges of his own. Kevin has Morquio Syndrome which causes him to be small in stature and wear leg braces; however, the reader soon learns that Kevin is a genius. As Kevin and Max become friends, Freak the Mighty is born. This book has a little of everything - friendship, adventure, overcoming obstacles, and dealing with loss. There are some harrowing scenes as Max's father comes back into the picture. There are some topics within this book that may not be suitable for everyone. Max's father is in jail for killing Max's mother (something the reader and Max do not know until later in the book) and there are some "unsavory characters" Max's father pals around with. There are mentions of beer, smoking, and criminal activity so be forewarned. Approximate Reading Level - the reading level of the book would be suitable for students as early as 4th grade; however, I would not suggest it for students under 6th grade simply because of the content. My suggestion would be 6th-8th grade for this one. As I believe I have mentioned before, I am not a huge graphic novel fan, BUT I really enjoyed New Kid by Jerry Craft. It is well-written and the illustrations help tell the story instead of detract from it (which I feel happens with many graphic novels). In New Kid, Craft covers some themes many students will be able to relate to - changing schools and trying to fit in, pressure from parents, racial stereotyping, and just growing up in general. Seventh-grader, Jordan Banks is the the protagonist of the story, and he loves to draw so much so, that he would like to attend art school. His mother, however, wants him to attend Riverdale Academy Day School which is upscale and prestigious. Jordan must adjust to a much larger school, new friends, and friends who come from money, not to mention, he is one of only a few students of color at the campus. Don't let the fun illustrations fool you, this book is deeper than you might think upon first glance. Approximate Reading Level - The reading level would be appropriate for grades 3rd-6th; however, I think the content will be most relatable for students grades 5th - 8th. |
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