Summer Book Notes

Although still quite busy at work, I've managed to squeeze in more time for reading some of those long awaited dust collectors on my book shelf! Here's a quick 'note' about them:

• The Fold by An Na - The author attacks physical attraction and attractiveness head-on in her newest book with references to plastic surgery and other self-image issues. I was especially drawn to this book because of the Korean-American characters having lived in Seoul for two years as a teenager. References to the Korean culture, physical attributes and language did not disappoint, either! A Junior Literary Guild selection.




• The Postcard by Tony Abbott - Such fun - a mystery within a mystery! What made it really inviting was the use of old Florida postcard clues to develop an engaging, wacky, and humorous adventure, especially if you are familiar with the landmarks, history, and culture of the Tampa Bay/Sarasota area. It is being marketed to the middle school grades, but I can envision many high schoolers taking it for a read! Also a Junior Literary Guild selection.





• The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini - See I told you the dust was collecting....Yes, this one has been out for a while and there's even a movie that has come and gone...This book was quite compelling and I was simultaneously sad and angry during much of the content as the worst of humanity was exposed page after page. Naturally, there were important lessons as well, including a chance to find ways to bridge differences (cultural, religious, economic, gender). The author's second book, A Thousand Splendid Suns, is now on my reading list as it was also named a Florida Teens Read for 2008.




• Street Love by Walter Dean Myers - As the title intimates, this is a love story reflecting teenagers with 'street smarts'. It's emotional pangs and triumphs are punctuated by the free verse poetry style that only Myers can pen. Students who have borrowed it have enjoyed the taut drama and the easy reading. It is also a 2008 selection for the Florida Teens Read nomination.






• The Dead and the Gone by Susan Beth Pfeffer - This one's content is haunting and disturbing...for it's potential reality. Imagine an apocalyptic event - in this case a collision between the moon and an asteroid which dramatically changes the world climate - and then think about what would happen to the survivors. Yes, there is a fair amount of death in this story and unlike other fictional work, you can envision this new world so the dying seems more real. Nevertheless, it is gripping and one of those books you are compelled to read to the end. A Junior Library Guild selection.

• The Dip by Seth Godin - And now for a change of pace! This little gem from the marketing guru is a delightful reminder of "when to quit (and when to stick)" The dip is that 'bump in the road' that you either persist through with focus and motivation to meet your goal or, in some cases, purposely assess the pros and cons weighing the likelihood of succes and giving yourself permission to 'quit' for a more appropriate goal. Short and sweet with many a re-reading in the future, this book goes well beyond the marketing theme!

That's it for the first half of summer - I've got more on my list (naturally!), so we'll see what I can share for the second half!

Submitted by M. Coleman, Media Specialist

Off the Shelf 0708-16

Rules of the Red Rubber Ball

By Kevin Carroll
© 2004

What an inspirational package of positivism and accolades to start off a new year! Just like those annual resolutions, the premise of this book will be challenging to put in action. Nonetheless, the author takes a creative look to help us choose and follow our passion, otherwise described as the "red rubber ball." The rules of that crimson sphere are fairly pedestrian - though still valuable - but Carroll's approach is fresh and inviting:

• Commit to your passion - make it yours!
• Connect and network with others - especially the encouragers!
• Create - when you do so, you'll see things differently!
• Get ready to put in time and energy - it is often hard, lonely and unglamorous!
  
• Challenge limitations - work through the obstacles!
  
• Anticipate the unpredictable - believe in coincidence!
  
• Check your focus - be in the present to influence the future!
  

If you need a lift, take the half-hour to read this power-packed jewel - but be prepared to take much more time to actually 'use' its message!

My recommendation: 5 out of 5 stars
Submitted by M. Coleman, Media Specialist

Off the Shelf 0708-15

Runner

By Carl Deuker
© 2005

Chance Taylor is a 17-year-old high school student who runs - primarily as a means to escape his reality. His mother left him years ago with an alcoholic father who can't hold onto a regular job. They live on a dilapidated sailboat on a month to month basis. He doesn't fit in at school and has few friends. One day his world turns upside down as he accepts a 'courier job' running packages as part of his regular daily runs. This activity leads to multiple adventures and interesting relationships, even changing Chance's viewpoint of his father.

Once the plot gets underway, the intrigue and suspense are addicting, providing a fast-paced read. Though there is some predictability, the reader is rewarded with various twists and turns - all sprinkled with life issues of divorce and family, poverty and wealth, and coping with individuality versus affiliation. In addition, post 9-11 terrorism plays a role in the story! With all of the facets to this engaging book, you will find yourself reaching for it every spare moment.

My recommendation: 4 out of 5 stars
Submitted by M. Coleman, Media Specialist

Off the Shelf 0708-14

Manhunt: The 12-Day Chase for Lincoln's Killer

By James L. Swanson
CD Audiobook read by Richard Thomas
© 2006

I didn't think I would like this book - after all, how interesting could it be to trace the events of the hunt for John Wilkes Booth, the assassin of President Abe Lincoln in 1865? And, I'm relatively certain that I would not have read the text version, but Richard Thomas (of The Walton's fame) read it to me...and I was 'under the spell' of this story. Not only did I enjoy the detailed account, but I learned a lot, as well. Swanson, a member of the Lincoln Bicentennial Commission, is well-versed in the assassination in the Ford Theater and, though he was a bit repetitive, he shares his knowledge and expertise well.

From our lessons in history, we know about the assassination and a little about the assassin, but did you know that

• Booth had fellow conspirators?
  
• in his escape on a waiting horse, Booth breaks a leg, thereby influencing his escape plans?
• Booth was an actor from a well-established family?
• the manhunt was unknowingly prolonged by both Confederate soldiers and Union calvary alike?
• Booth's persuasive personality convinced many to 'aid and abet' him and his cause?
  

Using primary documents (to include Booth's diary and newspaper accounts), Swanson's believable account takes you into the mind, heart and soul of Booth. His website provides supplemental resources, as well. This historical reading is well worth your time!

My recommendation: 4 out of 5 stars
Submitted by M. Coleman, Media Specialist

Off the Shelf 0708-13

You Are So Not Invited To My Bat Mitzvah
By Fiona Rosenbloom
© 2007

Stacy Adelaide Friedman is a few weeks from becoming a Bat Mitzvah. According to Jewish law, after the event she will be an adult. She has many high hopes for that day…the perfect dress, her best friends, and most importantly…Andy Goldfarb. Unfortunately, what Stacy learns is that things do not always work out the way she plans. She and her mother do not agree on her dress, her parents have separated and do not appear to be getting back together, and Andy Goldfarb does not seem to realize that he is supposed to help her be the first friend in her group to have a boyfriend. He also, apparently, has caused a crisis between Stacy and her best friend Lydia.

It is all of these disappointments that Stacy unloads to Rabbi Sherwin at Bat Mitzvah practice. He, in turn, teaches her that if she sacrifices for others rather than thinking primarily about herself, she will be rewarded. He encourages her to perform three mitzvahs, or good deeds. With great difficulty, Stacy manages to arrive at only two mitzvahs on which she promptly starts to work, but she is unable to determine what the third should be. Until it hits her right in the middle of her Torah reading, and it cannot wait!

Stacy ultimately does learn the value of the mitzvah and the value of friendship…with or without Andy Goldfarb.

My recommendation: 4 out of 5 stars
Submitted by Judi Lewis, Financial Aid Facilitator

Off the Shelf 0708-12

Broken Moon
By Kim Antieau
© 2007

Pakistan is in the news these days. For most Americans, it has become a country of unknowns and, in some cases, undesired practices. Broken Moon uncovers some of those cultural differences - exploring tribal rule, paternalistic authority, and surviving the desert environment. Readers are immediately drawn into Nadira's story as she struggles to maintain her dignity amidst a culture with little respect for young women. She is victimized and abused for an illegal act that her older brother allegedly committed. When her younger brother (to whom she is truly devoted) is kidnapped to race camels, Nadira is devastated and seeks to rescue him.

Antieau's writing is free-flowing and engaging. She sets much of the story as letters that Nadira writes to her younger brother, which reveal personal emotions and thoughts in both relationships and adventures. The author also employs the Persian fable of Scheherazade, a young girl who persuaded the King to spare her life by creating anticipation in her storytelling. When Nadira needs to manipulate the bullies in the desert, she effectively draws upon her own storytelling.

There are many layers to discover in this relatively short book - it will be one to re-read and capture new nuances and discoveries!

My recommendation: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Submitted by M. Coleman, Media Specialist

Off the Shelf 0708-11

Freakonomics
By Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner
CD Audiobook read by Stephen J. Dubner
© 2006

Subtitled, A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything, this might entice you to read a book about economics - then again....maybe not! Economics is not normally thought of as a best-selling novel topic, but Freakonomics takes the social science that studies the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services (Wikipedia) to another level. In fact, you really owe yourself a favor by reading this book - really! The premise of the book is to explain phenomena by seeing it from another perspective - by asking the right questions and drawing the right connections. For example, they share their perspective of the reduced crime rate not by increased police protection, but by legalized abortion two decades earlier. As one might expect, they often draw controversy with their alien concepts, but seeing their connections invites good thinking!

So, who knew writers could untangle statistics in such a way as to make for an enjoyable read - made even better when listened to on this audiobook? Their story is fascinating and will have you wanting to know more! Fortunately, they continue their writing and exploration of unusual analysis through their blog posts at the New York Times edition of Freakonomics.

My recommendation: 5 out of 5 stars
Submitted by M. Coleman, Media Specialist

Off the Shelf 0708-10

The Last Apprentice: Revenge of the Witch
by Joseph Delaney
© 2006

Just in time for Halloween - a 'spooky' story! Thomas Ward is the seventh son of a seventh son which in medieval England means you become an apprentice to the town Spook. And the job of a Spook, you wonder? It is to protect the townspeople from the ghouls, witches and ghosts that frequent the town. Tom is a bit of a character and struggles to learn the ways of his newly acquired occupation which provide the fast-paced and adventurous storyline. In addition, Tom is revealed as rather 'normal' who himself is frightened by the haunted house and who also falls victim to a young girl's temptation.

Although a bit lame in its plot, this book kept me reading with its suspenseful writing. It wasn't scary in a sophisticated sense and it's appeal may be more limited to the younger teens, but it's gore and fright kept me spellbound. In addition, the woodcut illustrations add a haunting visual throughout the book.

My recommendation: 4 out of 5 stars
Submitted by M. Coleman, Media Specialist

Off the Shelf 0708-9

If I Have a Wicked Stepmother, Where's My Prince?

By Melissa Kantor
© 2005

Providing a modern-day Cinderella story is an easy feat for this author. Lucy finds herself with a 'wicked stepmother' and two annoying stepsisters when her father remarries and moves her a new location. She finds herself having difficulty with the transition at home and at school. Then, an unbelievable moment occurs when she gains the attention of the popular guy in school - and all at once, she gains a boyfriend, lots of other friends and a whole new set of difficulties!

This light-hearted read offers the proverbial lessons about relationships (both familial and intimate), but does so with a humorous attempt. Sarcasm and exaggeration reign, while the plot remains somewhat predictable. Nonetheless, readers will likely be entertained by Lucy's antics and the lack of connectivity with her new family. The scenarios reflect modern day conflicts and issues which will appeal to those who enjoy realistic fiction.

My recommendation: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Submitted by M. Coleman, Media Specialist

Off the Shelf 0708-7

Marley & Me
By John Grogan
CD Audiobook read by John Grogan
© 2005

Who can resist the adorable face of an 'innocent' looking puppy? Even if he turns out to be a bit mischievous, Marley is the warm and loving pet of the Grogan household. Marley manages to endure many adventures with his family, including a chain of unsuccessful dog training sessions, a burglarized neighborhood, numerous foreign objects in his stomach, and an acting role for a feature film. This touching story about the trials and tribulations of a Labrador retriever and his family will tug at your heart and pull on your laugh lines!

The author not only captures the antics of our furry friends with a light and humorous voice, but he lays the groundwork for the real meaning of those relationships between human and animals. The bonding and unconditional love that develops among family members - including the four-legged variety. As with most relationships, there are subtle lessons to be learned and memories to create. No doubt, this book is a must read for dog-lovers!

My recommendation: 4 out of 5 stars
Submitted by M. Coleman, Media Specialist

Off the Shelf 0708-6

Sold
By Patricia McCormick
© 2006

It is difficult to imagine the life of Lakshmi, a thirteen-year old Nepalese girl. Living in poverty with little hope of change, Lakshmi still tries to delight in the small things that life offers. Ingrained in her culture is the small and insignificant value of her gender compared to that of males. She watches as her mother, "serves my stepfather her dinner, she kneels at his feet." For Lakshmi, her worth is measured as a commodity when she is sold to a house of prostitution in India. Thinking that she is going to a wealthy home to serve as a maid, her innocence is soon lost when the reality of her situation becomes obvious.

The storyline is compelling, though certainly disturbing. McCormick's beautiful and poetic writing contrasts with the harsh realities that face Lakshmi.

Inside the bundle Ama packed for me are:
my bowl,
my hairbrush,
the notebook my teacher gave me for being the number one
girl in school,
and my bedroll.

Inside my head I carry:
my baby goat,
my baby brother,
my ama's face,
our family's future.

My bundle is light.
My burden is heavy.

The chapters are short - on average, one page long. The brevity, however, does not shadow the more complex and deeper meaning of her writing

This book won't appeal to those looking for light content, but it is well-worthwhile nonetheless. Although it is fiction, Lakshmi's story is based on truth as "each year, nearly 12,000 Nepali girls are sold by their families, intentionally or unwittingly, into a life of sexual slavery in the brothels of India." (McCormick, p. 264). Troublesome as that statistic is, the worldwide estimates of nearly half a million trafficked is even more gruesome. This book is an excellent springboard for further conversation about these sociological issues.

My recommendation: 5 out of 5 stars
Submitted by M. Coleman, Media Specialist

Off the Shelf 0708-5

When She Was White: The True Story of a Family Divided by Race

By Judith Stone
© 2007

This book is based on a true story of a young lady who had her color reclassified by the government because she was “different” from her birth parents. She grew up afflicted with the social stigma and cultural dislocation often experienced by mixed race people.

Eventually her parents abandoned her because she chose to live her life as a black woman even though genetically she was white. Over the next few years she suffered abuse, homelessness, and physical illness.

I personally related to some of her stories because I was also seen as being different in my community because of my long term interracial relationship. I have seen first hand how people are treated when they think you are different.

At times this book had me laughing and at other times almost in tears, it was easy to follow and very enjoyable to read.

My recommendation: 4 out of 5 stars
Reviewed by Brenda Stevens-Harrison ACE Computer Systems Technology Instructor

Off the Shelf 0708-4

Sickened
By Julie Gregory
© 2003

Though difficult to fathom, there is a condition called Munchausen by proxy (MBP), which is specific type of mental disorder involving child abuse. It is a rare disorder in which a parent seeks medical attention for their child after creating real or imagined illness. Typically, a mother will deliberately make their child sick and/or report exaggerated or false symptoms which results in doctor's attempts to treat with tests, medications, and even surgeries. The parent usually demonstrates warm and caring attention towards the child, thus creating a web of confusion and deception.

This autobiography is a harrowing account of MBP through the victim's eyes. Reflecting on her childhood, Julie Gregory realizes with horror that her mother was indeed inflicted with MBP. Beautifully written - even in the sadness and ugliness of it all - there are bits of hope buried in facets of her life. She uncovers the cycle of child abuse and explores the vast impact it has on the entire family. The book appears to be serve as a cathartic release for Julie and possibly an attempt to redirect her anger into a more constructive manner. She also has a website (www.juliegregory.com) which, among other things, provides a forum for others to share their experiences.

This book is a must read for health and mental health professionals or for students interested in those career fields - however, consider yourself warned of the stark reality painted in eloquent words that will draw tears of sadness and angry, clenched jaws.

My recommendation: 4 out of 5 stars

Submitted by M. Coleman, Media Specialist

Off the Shelf 0708-3

13 Little Blue Envelopes

By Maureen Johnson
© 2005

Ginny is caught up in a fun and entertaining scavenger hunt around the world when her somewhat eccentric aunt dies and leaves her intriguing clues! Her passport is stamped in London, Scotland, Paris, Amsterdam, Greece and more idyllic settings. Her path crosses with new friends, strange traveling companions, and some wild characters. Adventurous, but still somewhat timid, Ginny learns, loves, and develops a new appreciation for life in her travels.

Reading this book reminded me of my own adolescent summers, even without the world-wide tour. Engaging and fairly light reading, it was a good choice for a summertime read. With a 'fairy tale' ending, it may be a little sappy for some, but all in all, it was enjoyable. Taken at a little deeper level, it would be interesting to re-trace Ginny's steps via Google Earth and add in some historical and geographical content!

My recommendation: 4 out of 5 stars
Submitted by M. Coleman, Media Specialist

Off the Shelf 0708-2

Uglies

By Scott Westerfeld
© 2005

The first book in a fascinating new trilogy, this story is a cross between a futuristic society and unchanging human elements of emotion.

Tally, like all uglies, will turn pretty on her 16^th birthday. The pretties have it all – clothes, parties, fun, and no worries about beauty – what more could a teenager want? Tally reconsiders those questions when she is forced to look at another side of the pretty world. Reminiscent of the “Stepford Wives,” Tally discovers what ugly really is – and it is not just limited to altering of physical appearance!

The story line alone is out of the ordinary, but it would also be an interesting connection to standard high school curriculum in the form of

• psychology (principles of social and developmental, in addition to physiological)
• history (reference to the “Rusties” indicate the previous civilization dependent on oil and trade),
• communication (various electronic devices in addition to face-to-face), and
• environmental science (key aspects of reduce, reuse, and recycle, as well as factors of extinction).

Get ready for the next two in the triology: Pretties and Specials!

My recommendation: 4 ½ out of 5 stars
Submitted by M. Coleman, Media Specialist

Off the Shelf 0708-1

Sleeping Freshmen Never Lie

By David Lubar
© 2005

Imagine making all the tough transitions facing high school freshman AND discovering your parents are expecting another addition to the family! Scott copes with that and more as he tries to impress the star football player’s girlfriend and keep his lunch money away from the senior bully. As the story moves quickly through Scott’s 9^th grade, one appreciates both the humorous situations as well as learning experiences that ‘befriend’ the main character.

The author’s writing style is diverse as he goes from simple narrative to Scott’s journal entries of advice to his yet unborn sibling. Also interspersed are Scott’s observations of life in the form of lists, such as, his “Field Guide to School-Bus Drivers,” where he expertly characterizes the ‘Beginner’, the ‘Shouter’, the ‘Ex-hippie’, and the ‘Retired City-Bus Driver.’

Since English is Scott’s favorite subject, the references to reading, writing, and learning are especially entertaining. For example, he learns about “Tom Swifties” (p. 34) – the word game of creating sentences with clever meanings and he unwittingly finds alliteration and metaphors in writing the sports column for the school newspaper.

My recommendation: 4 out of 5 stars
Submitted by M. Coleman, Media Specialist

Off the Shelf 0607-30

A Long Time Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Soldier
By Ishmael Beah
Audio – CD – Undabridged
Read by Ishmael Beah
© 2007

Beah's story is an important one to read/listen to - but it doesn't make it easy. The majority of the book is centered on the violent atrocities of the recent genocide in the Sierra Leone civil war. The author was twenty-six when he wrote his story - in that relatively short lifetime, he had not only witnessed but participated in the ugliness of humanity gone wrong. Beah was twelve when rebels attacked his home, forcing him and his playmates on the run with only each other and their childish wits. A year later, at thirteen, he became a soldier and fought in the bloody and torturous war against the rebels, fueled by propaganda, hatred and drugs.

The plot takes you on a roller-coaster ride with hope and despair at many turns. Amazingly, Beah's overall perceptions about life took a lucky turn for the better and he outlived the negative aspects of the violence. Reading his account is almost surreal, but there is unquestionably the stark truth written in each line. As he indicates in this interview clip , his story is personal and unique and yet it also reflects a hidden secret about child soldiers world-wide. Though A Long Way Gone is understandably depressing, Beah advocates for the belief in humanity's goodness even through the eyes of evil.

My recommendation: 4 out of 5 stars
Submitted by M. Coleman, Media Specialist

Off the Shelf 0607-29

Tasting the Sky: A Palestinian Childhood
By Ibtisam Barakat
© 2007

A Palestinian refugee from the Six-Day War, the author shares her childhood experiences in a homeless and landless environment. This is a story of humanity, survival and conflict – and being caught in the middle of it! Barakat was just 3 years old when her family fled their home on foot to avoid aerial attacks. The chaos that ensued nearly ripped her from her parents, but fortunately, she was able to reunite with them after a short separation. One appreciates the security of our relatively safe environment after reading her memoirs.

Extremely inquisitive, Barakat rivals her brothers’ adventures with endeavors of her own. She seeks security in the imaginary friendship of animals and in the manipulation of alphabetic objects, with interesting results! Her story is rich with cultural views and insightful anecdotes, as well.

Barakat purposefully gives tribute to the United Nations Relief and Work Agency for even having the opportunity to attend school. Interestingly, her writing style appears very natural, flowing with sophisticated descriptors and personal reflections. Though the focus is on the author’s experiences, there is considerable historical perspective to gain, as well.

My recommendation: 4 out of 5 stars
Submitted by M. Coleman, Media Specialist

Off the Shelf 0607-28

Water for Elephants
By Sara Gruen
© 2006

One might not think that a book set in the Great Depression, specifically in a circus environment, would be a best-seller - but, it was – in fact, it is still on the paperback top 10! Essentially, this is a love story with the usual twists and turns of relationships, but it is so well-written that you are drawn to each character’s idiosyncrasies. In addition, the circus animals, especially Rosie the elephant, manage to play a integral role in the plot and outcome of the story.

What I found most compelling was the author’s approach to the story. Jacob, as the focal character, reveals his life in alternating chapters as both the older man’s 80+ year old reflections and the younger man’s present situation. She captures your interest with event after event, so the action is truly engaging. It was a delightful read!

My recommendation: 4 out of 5 stars
Submitted by M. Coleman, Media Specialist

Off the Shelf 0607-27

Our Stories, Our Songs: African Children Talk About AIDS
By Deborah Ellis
© 2005

AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) has orphaned 11.5 million children in Sub-Saharan Africa. That number is expected to rise to 20 million by the year 2020. (p. vii)

Thus begins the intimate and compelling tale of children touched by AIDS. Their world seems so distant and surreal – and yet, it is their reality: preteens nursing their dying parents and now caring for younger siblings; children begging on the streets to fill their distended stomachs; and teenagers fearing the cyclical life of the disease’s isolation and stigma.

Despite the obvious sadness and despair, these children manage to express hope and dignity through their anecdotes and ‘songs of victory.’ The humanitarian author, donating the book royalties to UNICEF, threads AIDS facts throughout the children’s conversations. One doesn’t leave the book unaffected – in fact, you will likely appreciate your own relatively stable circumstances, as well as, examine how you can play a positive role in increasing the resources and quality of life for those with HIV/AIDS.

On a related note, take a moment to visit the Nata Village blog which brings you the “opportunity to witness the battle to control the spread of HIV/AIDS in an African village.” Their postings are a confirmation of the daily struggle to improve the environment of those impacted with the disease.

My recommendation: 4 out of 5 stars
Submitted by M. Coleman, Media Specialist