Pura Belpre Award Award, Coretta Scott King Award List, and Geisel Award List (winners and honor books)
Pura Belpre Award Winners and Honor Books
Acevedo, E. (2018). The Poet X. Harper Teen an Imprint of HarperCollins Publishers. ISBN 9780062662804
Plot Summary
Xiomara Batista is a teenage girl growing up in Harlem and of Dominican descent. She grows up in a household with a father who seems distant, but there, a mother who is deeply religious, and her twin brother, who is the person she has always felt closest to. Her only other close companion has been her lifelong friend, Caridad, who is loyal and a genuine friend. Even though he is more introverted and shy, she has always loved to write and it helps her heal when she is in pain.
Xiomara constantly questions her mother's religious views and struggles with how the outside world views her. She doesn't like to draw attention to herself, but unintentionally tends to find conflict all around her. As she comes of age, she starts to examine her individual thoughts, her physical changes, and her deepening wants.
Xiomara, who has never felt truly herself with her given name, grows a forbidden bond with a boy, who listens to her and accepts her as is. She gains the trust of a welcoming teacher who pushes her to embrace her gift. She is able to gain a name that is her own. She has to fall to gain the confidence that she needs to breathe and with this, mends a bond that she thought would never be able to truly express.
Critical Analysis
Elizabeth Acevedo has given us a book in verse that is so relatable with readers, especially those whose family has immigrated to the US. Xiomara is not the conventional damsel in distress. She questions and is not the meek type. Her thoughts are engaging because she seems like the common teenage girl: one who experiments, wants to be liked, wants to know love, and seeks to know her individual self.
Acevedo's writing will captivate the reader and will remind you of the power that poetry has. Her book, which is written in free verse, is elegantly thought out. There are no awkward pauses or cutoffs that hinder the flow. Each poem draws you in more and more into Xiomara's world. You will not be able to put this book down until it is done, and it will leave you wanting more.
Acevedo is able to successfully draw in the reader with her character development. She utilizes common teenage dilemmas: like the coming-of-age menstrual cycle, a first love, parent-child lack of communication, finding one self, and the power of true friendship. She blends English with Dominican Spanish terminology in a way that does not interfere with the understanding.
Readers will grow with Xiomara's empowerment and will leave with a reassurance that everyone has struggles. Everyone has a story to tell. Everyone should be able to make their own decisions. And the most enchanting lesson is that poetry is beautiful.
Review Excerpt(s) and Awards
Pura Belpre Award
National Book Award for Young People's Literature
Michael L. Printz Award
New York Times review "The force and intensity behind her words practically pushes them off the page, resulting in a verse novel that is felt as much as it is heard. This is a book from the heart, and for the heart."
Kirkus review starred “Themes as diverse as growing up first-generation American, Latinx culture, sizeism, music, burgeoning sexuality, and the power of the written and spoken word are all explored with nuance. Poignant and real, beautiful and intense.”
Publishers Weekly starred “Debut novelist Acevedo’s free verse gives Xiomara’s coming-of-age story an undeniable pull, its emotionally charged bluntness reflecting her determination and strength. At its heart, this is a complex and sometimes painful exploration of love in its many forms, with Xiomara’s growing love for herself reigning supreme.”
School Library Journal starred “Acevedo’s poetry is skillfully and gorgeously crafted, each verse can be savored on its own, but together they create a portrait of a young poet sure to resonate with readers long after the book’s end.”
Connections
*This book may bring conversations and questions about religion and beliefs.
*This book can have readers reflect about dysfunctional families.
*Teenage girls from Latin American descent who struggle with acceptance will find similarities with Xiomara.
*Similar titles:
Reynolds, J. Long Way Down. ISBN 1481438263
Callender, K. Felix Ever After. ISBN 0062820257
Callender, K. Felix Ever After. ISBN 0062820257
Zoboi, I. Punching the Air. ISBN 0062996487
Engle, M (2015). Enchanted Air: Two Cultures, Two Wings: A Memoir (E. Rodriguez, Illus.). Atheneum, an imprint of Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing Division. ISBN 9781435239
Plot Summary
Margarita Engle tells us about her first fourteen years, growing up as a girl between Cuba and the United States. Coming from a diverse family, she never understood conflicts between cultures and why prejudice would be an issue in society. Margarita's paternal family lives in the United States and she gets to spend time with them, but her maternal family lives in Cuba; at a time when tensions were starting to grow between both governments.
Due to these growing conflicts with the Cold War, Margarita starts feeling the negativity that is faced by Cubans and feels like she is neither American, nor Cuban. As she comes of age, she shifts her focus into becoming an "outsider" and welcomes the negativity that is placed on her. Margarita comes of age, yearning to be able to live a life in which she is able to travel freely between her home in the United States and her family in Cuba, which is something that does not come to pass easily.
Margarita learns to see the positivity in life and that in order to see a better tomorrow, she must learn to adapt and hope for a better future.
Critical Analysis
Margarita Engle's memoir is stunning. Her descriptions are vivid and her use of figurative language is enticing. She begins her memoir in eyes of a young and innocent child. Coming from a diverse background, she does not understand about and why segregation takes place. It reminds you of the beauty that childhood is. She brings comfort when she speaks of her abuelita, or grandmother, and how she grew blending both Spanish and English. She flawlessly uses both languages in her memoir.
When the Cold War begins to affect her own life, Engle's reflections are eerily familiar and will speak out to any refugee coming to the United States or any other country. Her words show us and bring the reader by asking, "Why are Cubans suddenly spoken of as enemies? Not so long ago, Mami's island was only known for music and sugar." Engle is able to create images that are both beautiful and haunting and will leave an impression for any reader of any age. Engle's Author's Note gives us background information about why she wrote the memoir, how it affected her, and about the struggle she has faced trying to maintain a relationship with her Cuban family.
Although this memoir is about the first fourteen years of her life, she doesn't limit this to the conflicts faced by Cubans and Cuban-Americans. This memoir will speak volumes to any refugee, adolescent who is struggling with finding themselves, travelers, and child coming from diverse backgrounds. This short memoir is powerful and will teach readers about topics like: compassion, family, war, empathy, and hope.
Review Excerpt(s) and Awards
Pura Belpre Author Award
YALSA Nonfiction Finalist
Walter Dean Myers Award Honoree
School Library Journal starred "A deeply personal memoir-in-verse filled with Engle’s trademark intricately woven lyricism. The author’s memories focus on the first 14 years of her life, beginning with idyllic summers spent in her mother’s homeland of Cuba and ending during the aftermath of the Cuban Missile Crisis and subsequent travel ban. Engle captures the heart of a quiet, young girl torn between two cultures."
Kirkus reviews starred "Though it is a very personal story, it is also one that touches on issues affecting so many immigrants.... As so many of our children are immigrants or children of immigrants, we need more of these stories, especially when they are as beautifully told as this one."
Booklist starred "Reflecting on her childhood in Los Angeles and her Cuban heritage, Engle’s memoir in verse is, indeed, nothing short of enchanting. Descriptions of Cuba as a tropical paradise and the home of her beloved abuelita come alive in the spare free-verse poems. She evocatively addresses weighty issues, such as her mother’s homesickness, being bicultural, the challenge of moving homes and schools, the Cuban Revolution, and negotiating an identity that is being torn apart by politics and social attitudes at complete odds with her feelings and experiences."
Connections
*This memoir will resonate with an American of Cuban, or any Latin American, descent.
*This book will teach about overcoming obstacles, maintaining family connections, and keeping hope for a better future.
*Try to look for various titles about Latin-Americans migrating to different countries as immigrants or refugees.
*Similar titles:
Billet, J. Catherine's War. ISBN 0062915606
Salazar, A. Land of the Cranes. ISBN 1338343807
Behar, R. Letters from Cuba. ISBN 0525516476
Ancona, G. (2010). Ole! flamenco. (G. Ancona, Photogr.). Lee & Low Books Inc. ISBN 9781600603617.
Plot Summary
Flamenco is an art that encompasses many techniques, such as guitar playing, dancing, clapping, and singing. It came from the gypsies who migrated to Andalusia, Spain. Flamenco is now worldwide and in Santa Fe, New Mexico, Flamenco's Next Generation fosters new dancers of all ages.
Traditionally, it is an art that is taught from birth and is passed down from generation to generation. Children grow into a family, or are taught this art, at a young age, and once they have mastered what their teacher has taught them, they are able to blend their personality into their art. This book captures the beauty of flamenco, provides a history of how it started, and showcases various techniques and performance via elegant images.
Critical Analysis
This children's book will teach the reader about the mesmerizing artwork that is flamenco. George Ancona is able to educate the reader that flamenco is much more than music or a form of dance. Flamenco is a way of life that many European gypsies still live by.
Ancona focuses on Santa Fe's Flamenco Next Generation and shines a light on the culture that this company and family use to bring the community together. Ancona's pictures capture the many forms, hand movements, and facial expressions that are used, or felt, with this type of art.
Any dancer or music aficionado will love and appreciate this book. George Ancona brings awareness to a dance and art form that has so much history and involves the community in a positive light.
Review Excerpt(s) and Awards
Pura Belpre Award
School Library Journal "Ancona turns his attention to flamenco in a photo essay about its history, technique, traditions, and performance. He features young students and performers of Flamenco's Next Generation, a Santa Fe group, and records their rehearsal solos and studio training. A discussion of Gypsy origins of the dance and its European development in southern Spain is included. Flamenco is presented as a changing, "living" art, incorporating the rhythms and styles of other cultures."
Booklist "Veteran photo-essayist Ancona turns to a subject that may not be an immediate choice for children, but they’ll soon be enticed by the story of flamenco, an art form that’s more than dancing and has been around for hundreds of years."
Connections
*Any dancer or music student will enjoy reading this book.
*You can use this book as an introduction to research or various cultures.
*You may want to look for different books about various forms for comparison.
*You can find various films that showcase this art as a supplement.
*Similar titles:
Witte, A. Lola's Fandango. ISBN 1782853987
Leaf, M. The Story of Ferdinand. ISBN 044845694X
Sotomayor, S. Just Ask! Be Different, Be Brave, Be You. ISBN 0525514120
Plot Summary
Carlos Santana grew up in a loving family of musicians. He loved watching his father and grandfather play in front of people and desired to share their ability to influence others through music. When his father was away from home, Carlos missed his smell and the magic he made through his music. No was able to take their eyes off and he felt that his father would make angels sing with his talent.
Carlos tries playing various instruments, but does not find what he is looking for; he wants to make angels sing with his music. His family moves to California, where he struggles with acceptance, and which he feels like an outsider. While living in San Francisco, he is exposed to various artists, like The Beatles and B.B. King, which opened a new musical world to him.
Seeing and living at a time when Cesar Chavez was standing up for migrant workers, Carlos finds inspiration to continue his dream. He gains confidence, grows his musical repertoire, and finally finds what he has worked so hard to seek.
Critical Analysis
Carlos Santana is a well known name in music. Michael Mahin researched his life and brings us Carlos's story. His words are heartfelt and inspirational. This children's book with not only teach the reader about the incredible life of a beloved musician, but it will leave the reader with the belief that anything is possible. Carlos worked hard to become who he is and Mahin shows us some of the hardships. He makes him relatable to the reader.
The illustrations by Jose Ramirez are divine. The colors are vibrant and bold, just like Carlos Santana's music and style. The tones are bright and almost neon looking and celebrate Santana's heritage and make his persona stand out. When looking at them, you can almost hear the music and feel his inner emotion, but like Santana searched for.
The jacket and book covers are exactly the same and are loud and energetic. The font that is used in the jacket's title, pops out and gives a three-dimensional effect. It almost seems like Carlos is in his own world, listening to the angels he makes sing. The pages are sturdy and are made to last longer than a few reads. The book pages are just as striking as the jacket, but are beautiful in their own way.
Ramirez and Mahin's work blends flawlessly. The reader will gain a history lesson and are even provided with dates as to different stages in Santana's life. This reading will grasp the reader and walk them through the early life of the musical giant. Readers will learn that hard work is essential and dreams can and do come true.
Review Excerpt(s) and Awards
Pura Belpre Illustrator Honor
Robert F. Sibert Honor
Booklist starred “Exhilarating language. . . . Mahin’s words match well with Ramirez’s intense, beautifully colored folk art, a mosaic of brown faces, young and old. The pictures demand second, even third looks . . . A biography fitting of the man’s music.”
Kirkus reviews starred “A musical journey perfectly aimed at young readers' excitement to know what they will be.”
School Library Journal highly recommended “Vibrant, beautifully colorful folk art illustrations complement the story of Santana's life. . . .This outstanding biography for early elementary readers is a compelling story of persistence in pursuing goals.”
Connections
*Music students may be interested in this picture book.
*Students who are seeking inspiration or who are interested in guitar or performing arts may be interested in this book.
*You may want to look for various titles that relate to some of Santana's influences.
*It may benefit to show a Santana performance to children so that they can see how much passion he had for his art.
*Similar titles:
Morales, Y. Dreamers. ISBN 0823440559
Weatherford, C. B. RESPECT: Aretha Franklin, the Queen of Soul. ISBN 1534452281
Lopez, S. Queen of Tejano Music: Selena. ISBN 149981142X
Cisneros, E. (2020). Efren Divided. Quill Tree Publishing. ISBN 9780062881687
Plot Summary
Efren Nava is a Mexican-American teenager who is American-born, but who's parents are undocumented. Both his mother and father are very hard workers, who have raised Efren and his twin siblings as best they could. Efren has always been appreciative and amazed at how his ama', or mother, creates magic when she cooks.
One day after school, he noticed that his mother was not at home waiting for them like she normally would. His life is turned upside down when he is forced to grow, becomes self-less, and just wants his life to get back to normal.
Efren, his father, and his siblings encounter several hardships, although the community does step up to help them. Efren must let go of his fears to try to bring his mother back home with the family.
Critical Analysis
Ernesto Cisneros has provided us with a loveable character whose story will build empathy with the reader, regardless of age. The family dynamics that are central to this story are beautifully written and relatable. Any first-generation American-born reader will find Efren, the twins, or his parents engaging.
Cisneros is able to develop his characters successfully and the diction used is up-to-date. For example, Cisneros includes relevant details about ICE raids and the condition of immigrant children in immigration camps. He also flawlessly interweaves English and Spanish words in a way that is conversational. Efren's father casually tells his brother he needs to be sure to use Moco de Gorila, which is a well known gel in Latin America.
Ernesto Cisneros also presents us with an applied student who forms friendships with classmates that are all too familiar. We read about teenage dilemmas like: embarrassment, friendship rivalry, undertaking numerous tasks, keeping up with education, and learning where you will encounter or have a true friendship.
Readers will laugh with Efren's relationship with his siblings, cry with the numerous conflicts that come his way, and empathize with the manner in which Efren handles his life.
Review Excerpt(s) and Awards
Pura Belpre Award
Kirkus reviews "Debut author Cisneros paints a vivid and palpable #ownvoices picture of the lost childhoods as children and parents are separated due to immigration issues. But even as Efrén’s world seems to be crashing around him, Cisneros celebrates the kindness of the Mexican American community and its richness of food, culture, and resilient spirit."
Publisher's Weekly starred "As affecting as it is timely, Cisneros’s debut depicts how draconian U.S. immigration policies rip through one Southern California family."
School Library Journal starred "Cisneros provides a heart-wrenching and evocative glimpse of what one family’s life might look like on both sides of the border. Using down-to-earth characters and authentic scenarios, he tells a story of resilience, strength, and love."
Connections
*This powerful novel will bring up controversial topics like immigration and immigrant holding camps.
*This novel will resonate with first-generation American-born readers.
*This novel will show the love and power that a parent has for their children
*Similar titles:
Rhodes, J. P. Black Brother, Black Brother. ISBN 0316493791
Barretta, J. The Secret Garden of George Washington Carver. ISBN 0062430157
Nielsen, J. Words on Fire. ISBN 133827547X
Coretta Scott King for Illustration and Honor Winning Books
Williams-Garcia, R. (2015). Gone Crazy in Alabama. Amistad an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers. ISBN 9780062215888
Plot Summary
The girls experience a difference in life between the states in the North and South. They learn about old family feuds and a rustic way of life. They learn about hard work and family values. They learn what groups like the Black Panthers are fighting to avoid and how African Americans in the South cope. Most importantly, the girls learn that family will always come together for each other at the end.
Critical Analysis
Gone Crazy in Alabama, is such a strong story. Williams-Garcia introduces us to strong-willed female characters who go back to their roots and learn about their family. Delphine as a coming-of-age character is likable and as the oldest, takes the role of parental-figure when needed. Vonetta and Fern are the youngest siblings, during the events of the novel, and have a childish innocence that is needed for the hard topics that are discussed throughout the book.
The relationship that the sisters have is heartwarming. They really have a loving relationship and Williams-Garcia recreates conflicts that are normally seen within the sibling dynamics. The girls learn about what life is like and experience history in the making, like rocket launches, and you can see the character growing and maturing as they realize the world around them. Delphine and the girls learn what being oppressed really means, experience culture shock when they arrive, and learn about the strong beam that loving families bring.
Review Excerpt(s) and Awards
Coretta Scott King Award
New York Times bestseller
Publisher's Weekly starred "Praise for P.S. BE ELEVEN: ..the Gaither sisters are an irresistible trio. Williams-Garcia excels at conveying defining moments of American society from their point of view this is historical fiction that s as full of heart as it is of heartbreak."
School Library Journal starred "A must-have conclusion to this beloved middle grade series."
Horn Book starred "Praise for P.S. BE ELEVEN: Funny, wise, poignant, and thought-provoking, this will leave readers wanting more about Delphine and her sisters."
Kirkus starred "PRAISE FOR ONE CRAZY SUMMER: Delphine is the pitch-perfect older sister, wise beyond her years, an expert at handling her siblings...while the girls are caught up in the difficulties of adults, their resilience is celebrated and energetically told with writing that snaps off the page."
Connections
*This is the third book from a series.
*This book will discuss various topics that you may need to introduce before you read, such as: KKK, oppression, betrayal, trust, family dynamics, abandonment by parents.
*You can look for various images or short videos that discuss movements like those led by the Black Panthers and other leaders.
*Similar titles:
Williams-Garcia, R. One Crazy Summer. ISBN 0060760885
Williams-Garcia, R. P.S. Be Eleven. ISBN 0061938629
Edelson, E. Lois's Story: A Girl's Inspiration Helps Stop Hate and Fear. ISBN 1736247913
Shange, N. (1983). Ellington Was Not a Street (K. Nelson, Illus.). Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, an imprint of Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing Division. ISBN 0689828845
Plot Summary
Ntozake Shange grew up in a life that was diverse and vibrant. She reminisces about her past life, before Ellington was the name of a given street. Her daily life is filled with the men who inspired lives and changed life in the arts, politics, and for many African Americans.
Critical Analysis
This picture book is a tribute to Shange's childhood. Shange's words are simple, but heartfelt. They provide images that provide a view into what her childhood was like. Because it starts and ends with a reflective, with "It hasn't always been this way...", it has a nostalgic tone. Shange also provides background information for all of those who she grew up amongst and who changed the world.
Kadir Nelson's illustrations are beautiful. The cover shines light on Ntozake Shange and he is able to capture a child's innocence with the facial expressions and manner in which she is holding the record with grace. The endpapers are indigo in color and the back endpage has Shange's words in poem format. It brings a sort of regalness to the story and subjects presented.
Nelson's illustrations are captivating on their own. Each person has detailed physical features and the images offer emotion that makes this book a masterpiece. They can tell the story on their own and both the illustrations and words work hand-in-hand to create a beautiful book for the young and readers of all ages.
Review Excerpt(s) and Awards
Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award
School Library Journal "Both the words and the rich, nostalgic illustrations are a tribute to these visionaries. Done in oils, the skillfully rendered portraits emphasize facial expressions, clothing, and physical positioning on the page, and provide unmistakable insight into the persona of each individual. Although presented in picture-book format, the poem is sophisticated, and therefore it may need to be read aloud and explained to younger readers. A biographical sketch of each man appears at the end, along with the poem reprinted on a single page."
Booklist review "The evocative words are more than matched by Nelson's thrilling, oversize oil paintings, a cross between family photo album and stage set, featuring this group of extraordinary men interacting--playing cards, singing, discussing. "
Connections
*The beautiful illustrations will grasp the readers
*You may want to look for various works about the different people that are mentioned.
*Use videos and photographs to compare
*This would be a great read for Black History Month
*Similar titles:
Hillery, Tony. Harlem Grown: How One Big Idea Transformed a Neighborhood. ISBN 1534402314
Nelson, K. He's Got the Whole World in His Hands. ISBN 0803788506
Alexander, K. The Undefeated. ISBN 1328780961
Rappaport, D. (2001). Martin's Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. (B. Collier, Illus.) Hyperion Books for Children. ISBN 078682591X
Plot Summary
The life of Martin Luther King, Jr. is told with a different take. He grew up with White Only signs all around his neighborhood. Reverend King grew up wanting to change life and with a purpose. His actions and love helped shape the community and he had an global impact speaking for and taking a stand for equality.
Critical Analysis
The life of Martin Luther King, Jr. is one that is inspirational and can be learned from at all angles. Rappaport is able to tell his story in a simple, yet captivating manner, by combining some of his "Big Words" from his speeches. Doreen is able to provide relevant details about his life, what and whom influenced him, and his purpose. She also provides a timeline of important dates that are relevant.
The words are skillfully written and the selected words from his speeches are a perfect accompaniment. The font changes between her words and Dr. King's legacy. The last page in the story used topic words from his famous speech and the way they are etched into the illustration, makes them seem like they are engraved into the reader's mind.
Bryan Collier's illustrations and collages are mesmerizing. The detail that he places on each page has a diverse feel to it. The colors vary from page to page, but maintain a historical aspect to them. The illustrations with Martin Luther King, Jr. as a child look like any image that could be seen in a history book, from anyone, humanizing this important figure. Collier uses colors like yellow, orange, and earth tones to symbolize hope.
The jacket of the book is exactly like the cover and the image used of Martin Luther King, Jr. is what will grasp in any reader. The book binding is strong and durable and the pages are thick and are made to be read more than once. This is one picture book that will touch readers of all ages.
The Author and Illustrator Notes are a must read along with this children's book. We readers will get background information on the details that our author and illustrator took and in a way ties everything together.
Review Excerpt(s) and Awards
Coretta Scott King Honor
Caldecott Honor Book
New York Times Best Illustrated Children's Book
Kirkus reviews "Beginning with the startling cover, which contains only the face of Martin Luther King Jr., with his smile broad, and his eyes crinkled in laughter, this title intrigues. It’s an homage in words and pictures, in which the author weaves King’s words with her own to present a brief but stately portrait of the American hero....Readers will hear [King's] voice echo in this presentation."
Booklist "Weaving in Dr. King’s own "big words," this inspiring picture book biography celebrates this great leader as preacher and politician. Rappaport’s sparse narrative captures the essentials of the man, the Civil Rights movement he led, and his policy of non-violence. This is a great book to read aloud many times."
School Library Journal "A stunning, reverent tribute."
Connections
*This children's book should be housed in every school library and would fit perfectly with American history classes.
*This would be a great book to use for an introduction to Black History Month.
*You could use it after students read "I Have a Dream" and talk about the impact the words have on the way the author tells the story.
*You may want to look for information about the 16th Street BAptist Church bombing to touch on symbolism.
*Look for pictures or videos that would enhance the learning.
*Find similar titles about other important figures that shaped the world or influenced Martin Luther King, Jr.
*Similar titles:
Giovanni, N. Rosa. ISBN 0312376022
Weatherford, C. B. Moses: When Harriet Tubman Led Her People to Freedom. ISBN 0786851759
Coles, R. The Story of Ruby Bridges. ISBN 9780590572811
Weatherford, C. (2006). Moses: When Harriet Tubman Let Her People to Freedom. (K. Nelson, Illus.) Hyperion Books for Children. ISBN 0786851759
Plot Summary
Harriet Tubman was born into slavery. She hears God speak to her and tells her to leave the South and head North. She leaves, listening to his guidance, and pushes through to attain freedom. Once she reaches the North, she decides to do more and finds a way to protect her family and other slaves who are looking to escape the South.
Critical Analysis
This children's book brings readers a different perspective to Harriet Tubman. Carole Weatherford writes this book and captures the faith that Tubman had and her drive to seek freedom for herself and her family. This picture book reflects the topic of Harriet Tubman's purpose for seeking freedom and what her drive to get to that freedom was. It also touches on her love for her family and passion for others.
The comparison to Moses is magical and adds to the allusion focused on and to Tubman's why. Because Weatherford left the direct comparison toward the end, after initiating and establishing Harriet Tubman's faith, it adds a touch of humility and humbles her actions. Weatherford differentiates between Tubman's thoughts and God's response and advice by using different fonts. As the reader reads through the text, it seems as if we are listening to a direct conversation that she is having and emotion she has for her religion.
Weatherford also provides an introduction as to what slavery is and what it encomp
The illustrations by Kadir Nelson are captivating. He adds human emotions and characteristics in a powerful way. The mood of the passage is also reflected and felt with each illustration and he is able to show emotions like: worry, fear of being caught, pleading, and acceptance through the manner he illustrates Tubman's face and hands. The color tones that are used reflect lightness and darkness, reflection of good vs. evil and elemental tones as well.
Review Excerpt(s) and Awards
Coretta Scott King Award
Caldecott Honor Book
School Library Journal starred "The story is sketched between passages of prayerful dialogue that keep Tubman from giving up and eventually call upon her to be the Moses of [her] people. Deep scenes of night fill many double pages as the dramatic paintings follow her tortuous journey, arrival in Philadelphia, and later trip to guide others. Shifting perspectives and subtle details, such as shadowy forest animals guarding her while she sleeps, underscore the narrative's spirituality. Whether filled with apprehension, determination, or serenity, Tubman's beautifully furrowed face is expressive and entrancing."
Booklist review " There's no romanticism: the pictures are dark, dramatic, and deeply colored--whether showing the desperate young fugitive "crouched for days in a potato hole" or the tough middle-aged leader frowning at the band of runaways she's trying to help. The full-page portrait of a contemplative Tubman turning to God to help her guide her people is especially striking."
Connections
*Readers will gain an understanding of the personal side of Harriet Tubman.
*Controversial topics can be raised from this book, like faith, slavery, fighting for your rights
*You may want to look for historical accounts of survivors who were helped by Tubman
*This would be an excellent work to read during Black History Month
*Pair it will children's books about figures like: Martin Luther King, Jr., Cesar Chavez, Rosa Parks
*Similar titles:
Levine, E. Henry's Freedom Box: A True Story From the Underground Railroad. ISBN 043977733X
Winter, J. Follow the Drinking Gourd. ISBN 9780679819974
Norwood, A. Black Heroes: A Black History Book for Kids: 51 Inspiring People from Ancient Africa to Modern-Day U.S.A. ISBN 1638788235
Hill, L. C. (2010). Dave the Potter: Artist, Poet, Slave. (B. Collier, Illus.) Little, Brown and Company. ISBN 9780316107310
Plot Summary
Dave the Potter is an artist who takes pride in his work. He knew every detail that he would and his hands were precise and worked as hard as he desired them to. He was a slave, who cherished items like dirt which seems insignificant to most. With it, he created works of art which have lasted the test of time.
Critical Analysis
This picture book is lovely. It reads as verse and has a musical quality to it. Hill introduces us to Dave the Potter and what his life may have been like. As a slave, Dave was around hard work day and night, but found an outlet in what many would have thought irrelevant. When Hill uses the words, "But to Dave," it shines on a Dave's perspective.
The illustrations by Bryan Collier are divine. They can stand alone and deliver a story on their own. Collier pays incredible attention to small details like hand movement and placement. The facial expressions are also indicative of emotion and concentration. Each shadow is in place to offer the illustration depth and makes it seem three dimensional.
The full spread with Hill's words about a magician pulling a rabbit out of a hat and Collier's illustrations are beautiful. They work flawlessly together and create a story about a man who we should know more about. The front cover is inviting and the font that is used for the title is regal and seems like a name you would find on an important document like the Declaration of Independence. The back cover provides the same illustration but from the back, or outside perspective. The texture of the end pages feels earthy and the color tones are just as fitting.
Hill provides information about Dave the Potter at the end of the book that provides historical context that will leave the reader intrigued and will want to seek further information on this interesting person.
Review Excerpt(s) and Awards
Coretta Scott King Award
Caldecott Honor
School Library Journal "The life of an astonishingly prolific and skilled potter who lived and died a slave in 19th-century South Carolina is related in simple, powerful sentences that outline the making of a pot. The movements of Dave's hands are described using familiar, solid verbs: pulling, pinching, squeezing, pounding. Rural imagery–a robin's puffed breast, a carnival wheel–remind readers of Dave's surroundings."
Booklist review "The book’s quiet dignity comes from its refusal to scrutinize life as a slave; instead, it is nearly a procedural, following Dave’s mixing, kneading, spinning, shaping, and glazing. Collier’s gorgeous watercolor-and-collage illustrations recall the work of E. B. Lewis—earth-toned, infused with pride, and always catching his subjects in the most telling of poses. A beautiful introduction to a great lost artist."
Connections
*Art teachers and students may be interested in this title
*This would be perfect for Black History Month
*This title lends itself for research and inquiry
*Look for various pictures from Dave the Potter's work
*You may want to discuss what makes someone an artist.. It would be interesting to see what children have to say.
*Similar titles:
Smith, C. Brick by Brick. ISBN 0061920827
Floca, B. Locomotive. ISBN 1416994157
Nelson, K. Heart and Soul: The Story of America and African Americans. ISBN 0061730742
Geisel Award or Honor Winning Books
Pizzoli, G. (2019). The Book Hog. (G. Pizzoli, Illus.) Hyperion, an imprint of Disney Book Group. ISBN 9781368036894
Plot Summary
The Book Hog loves books and everything about them. He owns many different types of books, but he has one problem, he doesn't know how to actually read them. This doesn't stop him from owning books. He meets a librarian who offers a solution to his dilema and which allows him to share his collection with others.
Critical Analysis
This is such a fun and cheerful read. Pizzoli's The Book Hog is a fun read-aloud that would surely have students asking for it to read over and over again. The illustrations are fun and bright. By using animals as characters, it makes the reading more inviting to the younger reader.
The sleeve and covers are identical and the color tones that are used are appealing. The end pages follow the same format, but the back end page is so clever. It looks like an old library due date slip. I even found myself trying to lift the slip up before realizing it was a clever illustration that had been added.
Many younger learners will identify with the Book Hog and will relate to the difficulty he encounters with reading. This heartwarming picture book will teach readers that the library is a setting that is inclusive and welcoming. Struggling readers will finish this book, or read-aloud, and leave with a positive and loving message that will brighten the day of any reader.
Review Excerpt(s) and Awards
Theodor Seuss Geisel Award
Kirkus reviews "The good-natured celebration of books, reading, and libraries will charm fellow bibliophiles."
Booklist "A book that readers will be eager to hog."
Connections
*This would be a lovely book to introduce to students on the first week of school as they come to the library.
*This will teach readers that libraries are safe havens.
*Students who struggle with reading will find peace and leave hopeful after reading this book.
*This book is perfect for a read-aloud.
*Similar titles:
Yang, J. Stop! Bot! ISBN 0425288811
Morris, J. E. Flubby is not a Good Pet. ISBN 1524787760
Bell, Cece. Chick and Brain: Smell My Foot! ISBN 0763679364
Fenske, J. (2015). A Pig, a Fox, and a Box. (J. Fenske, Illus.) Penguin Young Readers, an Imprint of Penguin Group. ISBN 9780448485119
Plot Summary
This picture book has three short stories about Pig and Fox. Fox tries to outsmart Pig in a sly way, but finds out that there could be consequences to pulling jokes on someone.
Critical Analysis
The words are simple and the three short stories use repetition, while maintaining a comic feel. Young readers will enjoy reading this and will be laughing out loud. Fenske uses words that are easy to follow along and will have students reading along in no time.
The illustrations are fun and inviting. The colors are also repetitive and do not overwhelm the pages. The book jacket and cover are exactly the same and provide the reading level for students. They will be able to easily look for various texts with the same reading level.
Review Excerpt(s) and Awards
Theodor Seuss Geisel Award
Kirkus reviews "Using fewer than 130 words, Fenske recycles his slapstick formula alongside repeated phrases to effectively entertain emerging readers. The dialogue-driven story helpfully uses color-coded speech bubbles to identify speakers."
Connections
*This picture book will be popular with students who are learning to read.
*Students will find characters and situations funny.
*Some readers may not like the stereotypes attributed to Pig.
*Great as a read-aloud
*Similar titles:
Fenske, J. A Pig, a Fox, and Stinky Socks. ISBN 0515157813
Williams, M. I Will Take a Nap. ISBN 1484716302
Williams, M. I Broke My Trunk! ISBN 1423133099
Fenske, J. We Need More Nuts! ISBN 0606405593
Seeger, L. (2008). One Boy (L. Seeger, Illus.) Roaring Brook Press. ISBN 1626722528
Plot Summary
A boy appears to be sitting down on a chair and on his own. The book then goes on to count different objects, chronologically, until it turns back to the same boy who may have drawn all of the other images himself.
Critical Analysis
Seeger's book is easy to follow and builds anticipation for the students. The beginning reader will enjoy counting and will learn to identify the simple words. This is a great book to use with students who are beginning to learn how to read. The illustrations are simple and bright and the way that the different pages are formatted will grasp the learners attention. This is a fun and interactive read that will grasp the learners attention and will leave them wanting to read it over and over. The pages are nice and sturdy and are meant for good use.
Review Excerpt(s) and Awards
Theodor Seuss Geisel Award
Kirkus reviews "Ask anyone—a boy can be clever, playful and unpredictable. Seeger’s latest concept book is like that: clever in its design, playful to the point of being puzzling, perplexingly unpredictable."
Connections
*This is a great read-aloud and a book that will have students volunteering to turn the page, if read to the class.
*The developing students will practice their numbers and the sight words used will become familiar.
*This picture book is incredibly interactive.
*Similar titles:
Seeger, L. First the Egg. ISBN 1596432721
Seeger, L. Lemons Are Not Red. ISBN 1626722536
Seeger, L. Green. ISBN 1596433973
Sullivan, M. (2013). Ball (M. Sullivan, Illus.) Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. ISBN 9780547759364
Plot Summary
A dog with a red ball loves playing fetch with a little girl. He is ready to play as soon as he wakes up. When she has to leave, it may be due to the little girl going to school, the dog anxiously waits for her return to continue their game. The impatient dog then goes on to play catch on his own and imagines that he plays in extravagant ways. When the little girl returns, the dog is ready for his favorite: ball.
Critical Analysis
Mary Sullivan gives us a fun and loving picture book while only utilizing one word: Ball. The variance in font helps show urgency and provides tone to the story. Her illustrations are beautiful and captivate the bond between the girl and her dog impeccably.
The colors used are calm and the fonts used match the playful tone of the story. The communication that happens between the child and her dog is reminiscent of that which any child loving would have with a pet. It will warm the hearts of readers of all ages.
Young readers will love this picture book and will have a fun time trying to imitate the tone and urgency that the dog has. The illustrations are lovely and heart warming. The book jacket showcases the dog with its red ball and the back of the jacket is fun to look at and has a warm, comic feel to it. The cover is truly beautiful. It seems to have images that are pencil drawings of the dog doing numerous activities with the ball. Sullivan uses panels throughout the book, but they have soft breaks, which makes it feel like one big dream.
Overall, young readers and anyone who has ever had a loving dog as a pet will thoroughly enjoy this book.
Review Excerpt(s) and Awards
Theodor Seuss Geisel Honor Book
Publisher's Weekly starred "Illustrator Sullivan makes a hilarious debut as an author by touring the brain of a ball-obsessed dog. . . . It's a paean to the neurotic single-mindedness of dogs, and a brilliant study of boredom."
School Library Journal "A humorous portrait of a dog with a one-track mind. . . . A fine choice for independent readers and dog lovers everywhere."
Kirkus reviews "Deceptively simple little winner for dog lovers."
Booklist reviews "Everything from the dog's brief encounter with a cat to his extended, ball-centric dream, told in full-page drawings, will make viewers giggle along with the story. Even those who have never had or wanted a dog will find themselves pining for a canine companion with similarly irresistible exuberance."
Connections
*Students will love this picture book and they will try to recreate the urgency in tone with the word "dog".
*Dog lovers will love this book.
*You may want to look for similar titles about other types of pets.
*Similar titles:
Sullivan, M. Treat. ISBN 0544472705
Sullivan, M. Frankie. ISBN 0544611136
De La Pena, M. Carmela Full of Wishes. ISBN 9780399549045
Willems, M. (2012). Let's Go for a Drive! (M. Willems, Illus.) Hyperion Books for Children, an imprint of Disney Book Group. ISBN 1423164822
Plot Summary
Elephant and Piggie plan on going for a drive. Their planning eventually leads them to realise that they need more planning for various items that they may need on their trip. They realize that they were not as prepared as they initially thought about going for a drive, but learn to adapt to make the best of what they do have.
Critical Analysis
Mo Willems's book is such a fun read. The book doesn't have too many words, so it will definitely help young readers who are beginning to learn how to read. The font used is varies in size and that helps show emphasis. Students will love to read and follow along with the varying emotions.
The illustrations, also by Willems, are fun and look like artwork that students would see displayed around the classroom. Elephant and Piggie are fun and the artwork helps students visualize the emotions and intensity of the words. The varying color comes from the items that they bring in, like the map, umbrella, and so forth.
The book cover is sweet and introduces both characters and their ideas. The back cover provides readers and adults with various professional reviews about the picture book. Young readers will love this as a read-aloud and will surely request it to be read more than once.
Review Excerpt(s) and Analysis
Theodor Seuss Geisel Award
School Library Journal starred "These masterful mini-dramas will delight and amuse easy-reader and picture-book audiences, alike."
The Bulletin starred "These books will easily take their place alongside Seuss and Eastman as classics in the beginning-reader genre."
Booklist review "Just in case your collection needed a little more gray and pink, here comes the latest mini drama of Gerald the elephant and Piggie the pig. “Piggie!” shouts Gerald. “I have a great idea! Let’s go for a drive!” Piggie’s down with that idea, and so begins a pattern."
Connections
*The illustrations are fun, but not overwhelming, and the beginning readers will be able to enjoy the story.
*You can have two students reading each part as dialogue and have them uses an expression that is relevant.
*Some students may get tired of the repetition, but the illustrations help enhance the text.
*Similar titles:
Santat, D., Willems, M. The Cookie Fiasco. ISBN 1484726367
Santat, D., Willems, M. Harold and Hog Pretend For Real! ISBN 1368027164
Keller, L., Willems, M. We Are Growing! ISBN 1484726359
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