The Dreamer (Ryan, 2010) allows readers to glimpse into the life of Chilean poet Neftali Ricardo Reyes Basoalto whom later took the pen name of Pablo Neruda.Neftali loves to read, displays a creative imagination, and is a talented writer. At a very young age, Neftali discovers that he wants to follow his dreams of becoming a poet; however, his talents were discouraged by his oppressive father whom views such an idea as foolishness.His father’s constant ridicule makes it difficult for Neftali to overcome his shyness and low self esteem.Readers may begin to think of children they personally know who display similar traits as young Neftali or who may live in a similar home environment.All readers can benefit from this biographical story and creative tale but imagine how much more meaningful it would be for someone whom can truly identify with Neftali?Wouldn’t it be an inspirational tale to share with such ones?
Additional information: Personally, I appreciated the illustrations at the beginning of each chapter as well as those associated with Neftali’s daydreams and feelings.The book is written in medium texts and includes onomatopoeia.
Why should you read it?
You may come to realize that we take some of our most common resources for granted such as grocery stores and dishwashers. People from third world countries may react differently to the things we are used to because they have never been exposed to them. I felt an appreciation form for minor things that others in other parts of the world are deprived of and my heart goes out to all those that are currently suffering. Students will become aware of wars that are not commonly heard of and learn about the existance of refugee camps.
This book is labeled as a young adult novel and is a bit of a love story. There is a sequel to this book titled "Love, Stargirl." The first book was narrated by Leo (the boyfriend) and the sequel is written in letter form by Stargirl as a letter to Leo.
About the book:
One of my favorite YA books is Looking for Alaska. Alaska is the pretty bad girl in the novel and readers quickly are enamored with her unpredictable personality. I guess that is why I was enchanted with the character of Stargirl (Susan). She is the queen of unpredictability and so full of life! When she first arrives at Mica High in Arizona, she takes everyone by surprise with her actions, which they consider just plain weird. However, there is something about her that captures everyones' attention. Soon her differences and personality are what make her the most popular girl in school. Unfortunately, with a sudden change of events she becomes an outcast.
The main character of the book is actually not Stargirl. It is Leo, the boy who falls in love with her and the narrator of the story. He is a junior at Mica High who is well know for being part of the school show Hot Seat. At first, Leo refuses to admit that he is very much attracted to Stargirl. When he finally does give in to his feelings, he tries to change her in an effort to make her fit into the same crowd that shuns her. As he finds out, people are not as accepting as he would have liked. In fact, sometimes they are just plain cruel. Reflecting on how he cowardly handles certain events, he experiences disappointment and regret. The story ends by fast forwarding 15 years after the encounter with Stargirl.
Believe Me You Will Want to Know MORE!!!!
Why read it?Many times people shun what they find different or what they don't understand. Stargirl is the sweetest, most compassionate person in Mica High and yet she is despised for her kindness. This made me reflect on how I at times have labeled great people as "weirdos" and decide to stay a "safe" distance from them thinking that if I get to close I may be treated differently by others. After getting to know Stargirl, I will try my best to refrain from taking that negative attitude ever again. I am determined to appreciate people's differences.
NOTE: If you like first love stories, this is the book for you as well.
After reading this book, each segment in this trailer will make perfect sense!
Trailer created by Cesteiner1214 and taken from YouTube.
Crash by Jerry Spinelli
Interesting Fact:
The setting of this book is in Pennsylvania, which also happens to be Jerry Spinelli home state. Jerry Spinelli is a Newbery Medalist. Crash is directed at 5th-8th grade students and there is a guide available for using this specific novel in your classroom!
What is the book about?
Basically this is an account of bullying from the bully's perspective. However, there are many other themes involved in the book such as caring for the environment, haughtiness vs. humbleness, and realizing what is truly important in life.
The story is narrated by John Coogan a.k.a. Crash. He is not only a bully but is also a popular football player, which is where he got his nickname. Since Crash is well aware of his talent, he is very self-absorbed even claiming to be "the answer to your dreams." He has a little sister who he considers "weird," parents that spend too much of their time working, and a loving grandfather who has grown old. Crashes target is a "dweeby" neighbor named Penn Webb who is nicknamed Spider. Crash begins to bully Penn back in first grade. The pranks get much more elaborate as Crash matches up with another bully named Mike in middle school. The fact that Penn joins the cheerleading squad and becomes friends with the most gorgeous girl in school (whom also happens to be Crash's crush) only adds fuel to the fire. Throughout the story Penn remains an innocent victim of bullying, never retaliating for all that Crash does to him. It is interesting to note the reasons that Crash provides for literally hating Penn, probably some of which are the same reasons real bullies have for picking on their targets. After the 7th grade football season, certain factors begin to change in Crash's life. These changes involve his parents, money, and grandfather. Crash suddenly begins to reevaluate himself in a way that he can not explain but that he admits feels good about. Such changes begin the transformation of a bully and lead to the best possible ending EVER!
Why read it?
I'm sure boys would say "because it's about football," but the reason is much deeper than that. I would say that you should read it because it tells the story from a bullies eyes. Reading such a book can help a bully understand themselves. It can also help readers, especially parents, identify some factors that can influence bullying. This story proves that people can change, that it's important to stand up for what is right, and that family comes first even if simplifying a way of life is needed.
The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane by Kate DiCamillo
Interesting Fact:
This book was a #1 New York Times Best Seller! It is directed at children 7 and UP, so that includes you too! Illustrations are included within the novel. It is typed in large text so it is possible to read in one day...probably in a couple of hours!
About the book:
This story is about a concieted china rabbit named Edward Tulane. Edward is owned by a little girl named Abliene who loves him dearly. Despite having such a loving owner, Edward finds humans annoying, has no interest in their affairs, and only loves himself. Due to an unfortunate event, Edward is one day seperated from Abliene. Soon he begins to realize that he had been unappreaciative of what he had. He comes across many different people some of which are loving and some of which are the opposite. He goes through heartbreaks to the point of saying "I'm tired of loving and being loved, its just too painful." Throughout the book, Edward can not talk (only to other dolls) or move, but he can think and feel emotions! The ending will warm your heart but probably make you cry!
Why should you read it?
Personally, I think that we should not only read it but share it with others because it teaches such powerful lessons such as friendship, love, and appreciation. Lessons that are valuable at any age. It helps us evaluate our attitude towards what we have, who we love, and those who love us.
Image borrowed from the official Edward Tulane website.
Interesting Fact:
This is a fictional book based on a real historical event. It revolves around the effects that Hurricane Katrina had on Louisiana, but especially on the Ninth Ward.
