Rules is a story of a young girl touched by disabilities in two different ways. Catherine’s brother David has autism, and while attending one of his occupational therapy sessions, she meets Jason, who has physical and verbal limitations. The way Catherine interacts with the two boys contrasts the reaction she has to each of their limitations.
David suffers from autism, a diverse and unpredictable disability. Autism effects people in different ways and can present itself in any number of behaviors. Some people experience an inability to relate emotionally to family and friends. Some may experience mild to severe preoccupations. Others may even display Sensory Integration Dysfunction. David has several symptoms of autism, making him unpredictable and hard to control at times. She tries to teach him social rules in terms he will remember and may apply, but the rules are not always successfully implemented by David. Because of this spontaneity, Catherine avoids having friends around him, and is very self-conscious of his behaviors. This characteristic of autism makes it difficult for Christine to accept and deal with David’s limitations (Aksoy, 2008).
In contrast, Jason’s disability displays itself the same way every time Catherine comes in contact with him. At times she can even feel like she has some control over the disability. She decides what word cards to make for him for his communication binder and what subjects they talk about. Because of this predictability, show more her relationship with Jason evolves quickly into a friendship.
There are many facets of a relationship that impact Catherine’s degree of acceptance of her autistic brother. Throughout the story the reader can empathize with Catherine’s frustrations. By the end of the story, however, Catherine has an epiphany and realizes the little successes of their relationship can be enough sometimes.
Library Implications: I am told by students in my classroom that this book is EXCELLENT!! That makes it a great read for students. The librarian can present it this way, however, the book can have other more profound uses. This would be a great recommendation for a student is dealing with this issue of sibling acceptance. Autism cases continue to be diagnosed at an alarming rate, so this issue of sibling acceptance is also a growing concern. Older students could further study some of the symptoms of autism and how they manifest themselves differently in each person. The link of immunizations to autism could also be the topic of debate activity after doing further research.
References:
Aksoy, Bercin. (2008). A Study of the Relationships and Acknowledgement of Non-Disabled Children with Disabled Siblings. Turkey: Gazi University. show less

Granny Torrelli Makes Soup tells a heart-warming story of a boy and girl growing up together and realizing that life is bigger than the street they live on. While Bailey is blind, he is very independent and capable. While Rosie knows this, her “stubborn Rosie self wants to help and protect Bailey every chance she gets. When Janine moves into the neighborhood, Rosie experiences feelings she has never had before. All the while, Granny Torrelli offers words of wisdom through stories as she makes dinners intended to bring people together. While the main focus of the story is not the disability afflicting Bailey, it gives a great example of comfortable interactions between people with a disability and those without. These encounters are so natural and easy, the reader can almost forget Bailey’s affliction and focus on his relationship with Rosie. It is a refreshing take on the topic of interaction between people with/without disabilities. The characters seem so real and believable; it is a great read for children and adults alike!
Library Implications: This would be a great read for a student struggling with a friendship with someone who is disabled in some way. It also is a great example of giving people their independence and not smothering them with help. Finally, readers could simply enjoy this book for the story it tells; everyone should have a Granny Torrelli!!!

This story takes place in 1908 and is a realistic view of the attitudes conveyed towards people with mental disabilities during this time period. The book tells the story of Jacob, a young boy who exhibits symptoms similar to what we now refer to as autism. People call him any number of names, and blame for any mishaps in the town. One of the main misconceptions of the time is that if you discussed certain topics that would upset or frighten pregnant women, it would sometimes adversely affect her unborn child. The book gave an example of a child whose mother had experienced a shock while carrying her child. The boy was born with a large, red birthmark on his face, believed to be a direct result of the turmoil she experienced while pregnant. This is just one example of the ways children could be “touched” by physical and mental disorders when born. Considering these beliefs, it is no wonder parents felt a sense of responsibility for the disability afflicting their child.
Also looming in the background of this story is an asylum was located on the outskirts of town, believed to be the home of “madmen and lunatics.” Due to a series of misunderstandings, the young boy Jacob ends up in that very place. He is never seen or even mentioned by anyone in the town again, even though he is living within walking distance of his home. The sad truth is that while medical breakthroughs have occurred in the areas of physical and mental disabilities since 1908, many of the same show more taboos still exist in our modern times.
Library Implications: Teaming with a medical professional for use of this book would be a great way to educate older students concerning the advances in modern medicine relating to mental disorders. Students could work in groups to research topics of mental disabilities. They could even compare and contrast the attitudes of the culture towards these afflictions. Treatment options could also be discussed, starting with asylum housing and moving toward the group home experiences of today. show less

This book is one of a series written about Moses, a young boy who is deaf. These books show Moses doing everyday activities, only doing them slightly different due to his disability. When the class goes to the concert, the author explains ways people who are deaf can enjoy music. The reader learns how to feel musical vibrations through touch in the hands and feet! I like this series of storybooks because it gives the reader a sense of the difficulties Moses encounters without making him seem “disabled.” Moses is able to interact with peers, attend fun activities like other young children, and enjoy everything other children would enjoy. The illustrations of Moses also depict a normal-looking child in every-day settings. It is important to teach children at a young age that even though a person is different, they can still enjoy the same activities and experieneces. The book also provides sign language for some of the print, so that children can learn some of the signs to go with the story.
Library Implications: This book would be a great tool to use when partnering hearing children and deaf children. If children are going to become friends, whether they can hear or not, they need to communicate. This book provides a gateway to communication between the hearing impaired and other children. The signs and printed words give students a way to exchange vocabulary and learn from each other. The librarian could also partner with a music teacher to demonstrate the vibrating show more effects that percussion instruments provide, and give students the opportunity to play with those vibrations. show less

This book is an anthology of stories centered on a glbtq theme. The book features many famous authors, such as M. E. Kerr, Lois Lowery, and Jacqueline Woodson. All the stories included in the book provide an open, honest approach to the topic and allow older students to identify with characters in a way few other books can. The most important job of this book is to show young people that they are not alone in their choices or fears. The story Am I Blue is a great demonstration of the number of people you would never expect who have had alternative sexual experiences. According to the introduction, in every classroom across the country, there is one student at risk of committing suicide due to lack of information and support regarding his or her sexuality (Bauer, 1994). These numbers are staggering! This emphasizes the need for support and empathy for young people as they enter into the realm of sexual exploration.
Library Implications: Stories in this anthology could be used independently to study and explore alternative lifestyles and the impact they have on families, communities and even the broader American culture. Librarians could recommend this book to guidance councilors who have particular student needs in mind. Even parents who know or suspect their child is struggling in this area would benefit from the stories presented in the book.
References:
Bauer, Marion Dane. (1994). Am I Blue: Coming Out From the Silence. New York: HarperCollins Publishers.

This book, written in 1986, intertwines the stories of two brothers who both have secrets from the family and must deal with the consequences of their actions. One thing the brothers had in common were some “family rules” they were taught to live by. One of those family “rules” taught by Dad was that young adulthood was a time to sew your oats and experience all you could. Both boys heard this advice, but had very different results due to sexual preferences. Erick, a heterosexual, is at the beginning of his sexual experiences, having his first long-term relationship and sexual encounter before high school graduation. His older brother, a homosexual, has had many partners and experiences but no lasting relationships. This scenario mirrors the research stating that homosexual youth tend to have much higher rates of high-risk sexual experimentation compared to their heterosexual peers (that is, the number of partners, overall percentage, and age of first intercourse) (Tamashiro, 2005). While this statistic is sobering, it does emphasize the need for more support systems for young people of all sexual preferences. American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), the Gay, Lesbian, Straight Education Network (GLSEN), the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), the Human Rights Watch (HRW), the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force (NGLTF) are all valuable agencies that provide help to struggling young people. (Snively, 2005).
Library Implications: This book can have far-reaching implications show more in the library setting if used appropriately. It could be used in a partnership with healthcare professionals to educate older students concerning the topics of AIDS, safe sexual experiences, or even discrimination and violence. One caution for a librarian would be to avoid character teaching or morals training. These topics can very easily become a soapbox to push your own ideals or personal agenda.
References:
Snively, Carol A. (2005). Gay-Straight Alliances. Chicago: GLBTQ, Inc.
Tamashiro, Dustin. (2005). Adolescence: glbtq: An Encyclopedia of Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual,
Transgender, and Queer Culture. Chicago: GLBTQ, Inc. show less

This Coretta Scott King winner is a great story for adolescents who are questioning where they fit in the world. The story focuses on Staggerlee, a girl who struggles with racial definitions along with her sexual orientation. Staggerlee and a step-cousin spend a summer together and discover they both have questions about their sexual identity. This story lets the prepubescent reader know they are not alone when they begin to question everything they thought they knew about themselves. The end of the book is an eye-opener for readers who are going through these same experiences. Tyler, the cousin, comes to the realization that she is not gay, and begins a relationship with a boy. This is a powerful message to young readers. Many “tweens” experience this period of questioning. They can feel guilt, fear and shame for what they are going through. This book helps them to know that they are not alone, other kids go through this, and they may not be gay. For some children, this book could provide a great lifting of emotions and guilt.
Library Implications: I think this book would be a great book to read in literature circles with “tween” readers. It lends itself well to discussions concerning many issues this age group deals with. If doing this type of open discussion, the librarian must establish rules concerning confidentiality of the group and be sure the level of maturity of the readers is appropriate for such open interaction. A journal-writing project could also be show more a great way to encourage conversation about the book. Readers may feel less self-conscious writing thoughts and questions rather than openly voicing concerns to a group. Once again, the librarian must prepare parents for the content of the book/activity, giving them an opportunity to introduce the topics at home, or opt out of the reading if they choose. When parent s don’t approve of the book provided, the librarian can keep the same type of activity, but focus on another book choice. show less

With all the controversy swirling around this book, of course I had to include it in my digital library. Let’s not forget, we may not like every book we own, but if we didn’t have books that challenge our way of thinking, we would never grow or evolve and neither would our culture. At its most basic level, this book is about two penguins and can be read that way to young children. The illustrations are beautiful, and children are naturally drawn to the animal kingdom. If, however, this book is being used to lead into a discussion of families, gender issues, or same-sex relationships, I feel it is necessary for the librarian to be responsible enough to notify parents before the book is presented to children. Parents should have the choice to opt out of the activity, or at the very least, introduce their children to the topic in their own way before being exposed to it in the public school or library setting. I also feel the responsible librarian will also be sure the activities provided to the students are age-appropriate and not just presented because a personal or political agenda.
Library Implications: Through reading this book, young children will enjoy learning about the animal kingdom and the life processes of the penguin. I also like that this book can be comforting to children who have same-sex parents. The penguins are accepted in the penguin house, the family accepts each other and they are together throughout the story. It shows children that even though show more their family is different, its O. K. Older students can use this book to explore family/gender roles. This book could also be used to discuss zoo life and occupations related to animals. show less

The story starts out as a story of assimilation as an American girl tries to adjust to life in Palestine, where her father was originally from. Habibi struggles with homesickness and lack of identity as the rest of her family seems to have become quite comfortable with their new lifestyle. Habibi, and the reader, are drawn into the volatile history of the region as Habibi becomes friends with a boy who is Jewish. As the friendship grows and the family contends with the cultural boundaries that are being crossed, Habibi suddenly realizes one night that homesickness is no longer the focus of her life. She has become part of the culture without even realizing it. The topic she most struggles with through out the process of assimilation is the violence that circles round and round between the Palestinians and Israelis. The violence in this region has been on-going with no end in sight. Just since September 28, 2000, Palestinians have killed over a thousand Israelis in terror and suicide attacks. Israelis have killed over 3,500 Palestinians in "defense" operations and reprisals, including many civilians (Isseroff, 2007).While many believe this conflict will never be resolved, people living on the West Bank continue to focus on the hope that peace will be achieved. This hope becomes on of the main motifs in this story.
Library Implications: Nye draws the reader into the history of the West Bank in a way few authors can. The story of Liyana intertwines with the culture of the show more area in a way that encourages reading for enjoyment and reading for knowledge at the same time. Older readers could research this topic further through video feeds. Video segments could be put to music to create visual histories of the on-going conflict between these groups of people. The librarian could also host a debate, having students take one side or the other. This activity would be a great example of the passion of both sides and the escalation of action this passion ignites!
References:
Isseroff, Ami.(2007). The Israeli-Palestinian Conflict in a Nutshell. http://www.mideastweb.org/nutshell.htm show less

This book tells the story of a family trying to live in the Gaza Strip in the 1980’s. The unrest in this geographic region is a daily reality for Malaak and her family. This turmoil shakes Malaak’s family to the core when their father is killed in a bus bombing planned by Islamic fighters. Even though he knows his father was against this violence and extremism, Hamid joins a group of young radicals determined to end the occupation of soldiers in their village. It is not hard to understand how Hamid would join this radical group. The reader would think that this would be the last thing he would do after seeing his father’s life ended in such a violent way. To Hamid, however, this probably seems his last chance to do something to vindicate his father’s death. When a person lives under the unrest that is continually present in the Gaza Strip, reality becomes skewed and choices aren’t always rational. Another sad reality of the book is the responsibility Malaak feels to protect her family. Throughout the story, Malaak experiences that nervous feeling that comes with expecting the worst for your family. The sad truth of the matter is, there are children in this country that live with that same fear for their family due to gang violence, drug use or economic hardships. While this book takes place half way around the world, the reader can empathize and indentify with the protagonist.
Library Implications: This book could be included in a study of the history of the Gaza show more Strip, possibly giving groups of students different time periods to research. Each group could then create a visual presentation such as a digital collage or power point. Students could also produce a journal written from the perspective of one of the characters from the book after during further research on the political groups involved. show less

This non-fiction picture book tells the story of a librarian who struggles to save her book collection from the fire and bombs that threaten the city of Basra during the United States invasion of 2003. During the story, the books are transported first to a restaurant, then to houses of people who will care for them until peace is restored in the city. When a culture loses their books, that culture loses a significant part of its history and ethnicity, so Alia knows the library will be a target. While the central theme of the book is the affects of war on the city, the reader focuses attention on the plight of the books. This helps the young reader gain knowledge of war in a non-threatening manner. This story also reminds readers that war effects every aspect of life, not just cars, and buildings as depicted on the evening news.
Library Implications: I would love to have this book in my book collection. This book tells of an historical event that students can relate to, and older students may even remember. It reminds students that the events they live through become part of their cultural history. Students can research Iraq and the turmoil that surrounds it. They could have pen pals through e-mail, Face Book, or even Skype. Students could begin compiling lists of other little-considered ways war would affect daily life. Finally, older children could be asked to consider what one book they would save if they would be put in this situation; would they save their favorite show more read, or something that has great cultural significance, or historical facts. It would be a big decision and answers could be quite interesting! show less

This story is about a young boy, Ali, who seems like most other young boys. He enjoys soccer, and loud music, but he also enjoys the art form of calligraphy. The second thing that makes him different to the reader is that he lives in war-torn Baghdad. The author allows the reader to see Ali’s love for calligraphy, his hours of practice and his determination to form hard-to-make letters and words. At the same time, Rumford draws parallels between the experiences of Ali in present-day Baghdad to the life of Yakut, a master calligrapher who lived in Baghdad over 800 years ago. Both used the art of calligraphy to sooth the fear and pain of war and bring beauty to a world of suffering and ugliness. The most profound statement of this book occurs when Ali observes that the calligraphy sign for war flows so easily on to the paper, while the letters for peace stubbornly resist the tip of his pen. This book tells the story of a boy to young children, but gives profound insight into war and peace to the adult reader.
Library Implications: The story of Ali lends itself to many learning scenarios. The librarian could partner with the art department in a school or community center to let children experiment with pen and ink calligraphy lettering; students could also make up their own lettering system. This experience with pen and ink is becoming a lost art that not many students have the opportunity to explore. The story of Yakut could also be explored, focusing on various artists show more from the region who made this art form popular. Older students could focus Baghdad and its tumultuous history of unrest. show less

This is an illustrated book written for older elementary students. This book tells the story of Jewish detainees imprisoned at a concentration camp. They survive because of their musical talents. At first, they feel lucky, but as they realize what their role in the camp will be, they wish things could be different. The musicians of the camp are organized into an orchestra and are forced to play for the officers of the camp. If that wasn’t bad enough, they must play classical music, particularly Mozart, when the trains come to the camp carrying new Jewish captives. The music is intended to sooth the nerves of prisoners and give them a false sense of hope as they step off the train. Once the camp is liberated, the orchestra members travel to different parts of Europe to try to live life after the tragedies of the concentration camp. Years later, a young child brings three of the members together and reminds them of their love of music. The idea that music was used in such a sinister way at these camps is mortifying to me! The positive aspects of this book include the subtle way the author describes the heartbreaking events that occurred at the camp. The camp is not the focus of the story, it is the music.
Library Implications: This book is a great short story to introduce the topic of the Holocaust. Because of the graphic nature of this catastrophe, research tools and technology should be previewed by the librarian for appropriateness and graphic content. The study of show more classical music could be a secondary topic of research using this book. show less

This book introduces the reader to a family torn apart as German soldiers take over Paris. The interesting event in this book is the opportunity the children get to travel by ship to the United States. The Jewish refugees will stay at Fort Ontario in Oswego, New York. Once again I am reminded of my lack of knowledge regarding historical events! I had no idea that this ever happened! Woe is me! As the children become familiar with their new surroundings, the tragedies they experienced leave their mark on Karin. She finally admits to Marc, her brother, that she is afraid he will desert her as he becomes assimilated into the American culture. The scars left on Karin’s psyche by the Germans serve to bring her and Marc closer together in the end.
Library Implications: This book is a great tool for teaching the events occurring in Oswego when Jewish refugees escape the United States. I think many students will be surprised to find out that this actually happened and how Americans interacted with these people. The story of Karin’s family in Europe is also compelling as they travel by night to find a safe refuge from the Germans.

The Talmud stresses the presence of respect and love between parents and children in Jewish homes. One of the themes that spoke to me from this book was the parent/child relationship at each house. Although the fathers demonstrated very different strategies for raising their children, one thing remained the same at both homes: the undying respect each son had for his father. While they might not have agreed with the way their fathers did things, the boys never once raised their voices or even said things to each other against their fathers. When Reuven questions the silent relationship Danny and his father have, Danny never responded by criticizing or berating his father’s parenting strategies. Parents are seen as partners in God's creation of each human being; therefore, to honor one's parents is to honor God. Similarly, to display disregard, disrespect, or violence toward one's parents is to do so to God (Berkson, 2002). The other idea that struck me was the fact that the outside world is never mentioned in this book. The conflicts all occur within the Jewish community, reinforcing a feeling of isolation regarding all four characters. The book gave insight into the religious beliefs and conflicts within the Jewish faith; however it did not show the consequences of interaction beyond the Jewish community.
Library Implications: This book will work as a great tool for older students to learn the idiosyncrasies of the Jewish faith as related to young men and their show more fathers. Jewish traditions and beliefs within the community could also be discussed. Librarians can use this book as a source for the exploration of Jewish suffering and outcomes of World War II. As a hands-on project, students could be encouraged to attempt Sabbath requirements over a weekend. Results could be compared with activities from a normal Saturday, focusing on the benefits of observing a Sabbath day of rest one day a week.
References:
Brekson, William. (2002). Jewish Values and Parenting. Printed for Reform Judaism Magazine. show less

This series of books makes a great addition to a young person’s book collection. Written in the 1950’s, it chronicles the lives of five young Jewish girls living New York City during the early 1900’s. It ties together the themes of immigrants, Judaism, and American patriotism in a way that few books for young readers can. These stories could be criticized for romanticizing or trivializing the struggles of Jewish immigrants. My answer to this argument is that these books were written for young independent readers. Concepts presented in books for this age group must be enjoyable and interesting so that comprehension is easily achieved and the student experiences that boost in self-esteem that comes from finishing a book! This series is great for the young reader because they are just wholesome, happy reads. They describe the antics of a group of sisters who usually get along, sometimes fight, and sometimes disobey their parents. These books also give the young reader an opportunity to learn about some Jewish traditions right along with the young characters in the story.
Library Implications: These books bring forth so many different opportunities for learning through print; it is hard to limit the options listed here. The lives of immigrants in New York could be studied, focusing research perhaps on one tenement community. The concept of Jewish traditions and holidays can be explored, using technology to watch video clips of celebrations very different from American show more customs. American history in the early 1900’s could also be a topic of study. These stories take place right before the start of World War 1, so older students could explore the causes of the war and how if effected immigrant families. show less

The Namesake chronicles the life of a boy whose parents are immigrants from India. They are a product of an arranged marriage and reside in the States while the husband, Ashoke, finishes his education. Ashima, the wife, struggles to find her identity in the American culture with a husband she barely knows. The book’s main character is their son, Gogol. He is the epitome of an ABCD child, (American Born Confused Desis.) He spends the entire book fighting his past in order to become completely assimilated into the American culture. The sad part is that he never seems to fit into either cultural mold comfortably. Part of this struggle is the result of parents not letting go of traditions from their past. These immigrants could be describes as the DCBA generation, Desis Came to be American, (Sekiguchi, 1999). While they are in America, they never fully assimilate to American customs and traditions. This increases pressure on the next generation to essentially assimilate into two cultures simultaneously: the past culture of their parents and the American culture they are immersed in on a daily basis. This struggle creates in Gogol a strong resentment for his parents and their Indian culture he wants no part of.
Library Implications: This book strongly demonstrates the struggle ABCD children encounter in America. Older readers in this situation could relate to these struggles on a personal level. That being said, the adult content and the overall depressed tone of the show more story’s main character might make me hesitant to recommend this book to just anyone. Mature readers could use this book to launch a discussion of the ABCD culture and its struggle toward acculturation. The subject of parent/child interactions during the course of maturation could also be used as a discussion topic.
References:
Sekiguchi, Mari. (1999). Between ABCD and DCBA: Rise of the New Generation in Asian Indians in the United States. Japan: Osaka. show less

This book describes one year in the life of Shabanu, a young girl living in the Cholistan Desert of Pakistan. The book begins with the promise of marriage for both sisters. When events take a turn for the worse, Shabanu finds herself promised to a 50 year old man who already has three wives. While this match is not what her parents envisioned for her, they are forced to agree to the arrangement to pay a debt to a wealthy politician. There are two themes in this book that are striking examples of the cultural differences of southern Asian peoples and Americans. The first is the age of these girls when they are married. As soon as the females can bear children they are married. In our American culture, girls of this age would never be considered ready to marry. The second concept that grabbed my attention is the struggle of the father to do what he feels is right for his young daughter, but also to do what is right according to the culture of the desert community. Staples writes of this conflict in such a subtle manner that younger adult readers may not feel the father’s turmoil without the librarian pointing it out. This is a great book… Looking forward to the sequel.
Library Implications: In addition to being a great story, there are many ways a librarian can use this book to benefit students. Using digital Venn diagrams, students can prepare presentations comparing the cultures of young women in America and other cultures of the world. This could also lead to an show more investigation of wedding practices described in the book. Shabanu’s life in the desert centers around water; the family moves according to where they know the water will be. Students could generate precipitation maps of various desert regions in the world to compare climates and cultural implications of each. show less

This book introduces the reader to Tree-Ear, a young orphan who learns value of a hard day’s work and the importance of never giving up on a goal. Tree-Ear volunteers to work off a debt he owes to a village potter. Once the debt is paid, he continues to work for the potter even when he learns he will not learn the art as an apprentice normally would. From the very beginning of the book, I was impressed by the emphasis the author placed on the cultural rules of respect Tree-Ear demonstrated for every person he came in contact with. These expectations were illustrated through silence, body movements, and eye contact. Several times throughout the story Tree-Ear was chastised for mistakes or carelessness. Each time, Tree-Ear bowed his head and held his tongue. He felt anger and shame, but also knew and admitted he made a mistake. This reaction to discipline is not what the young reader is accustomed to seeing.
Library Implications: This Newberry Award winning book would be a valuable addition to a collection based on several uses. A study of social boundaries between young people and their elders is only one topic this book lends itself to. Students could research famous artists and pottery techniques from the East Asian region. If collaboration with an art teacher is possible, students could even try their hand at pottery and glazing techniques.

This book is the sequel to The Breadwinner, the story of Parvana’s struggle for survival in war-ravaged Afghanistan. After reading the first book, I had to continue reading Parvana’s story. She proved herself as a valued member of her family, not just because she was born into this particular family. She was willing to do whatever she had to in order to ensure the survival of the female members of her family in the absence of her father. In this book, she branches out and becomes a strong member of the war-torn country as she tries to find her family and becomes responsible for the survival of other children as well. Where the first book draws the reader’s focus to the plight of women related to the Taliban, this story focuses on the impact the war has on children. At one point in time, Leila, one of the younger children asks Parvana what the soldiers do with all the dead children. It is a reality of war that most adults try to avoid. When the young adult reader begins this book, he will be introduced to the perils of war related to children in a way that increases awareness, concern and empathy for their peers on the other side of the globe.
Library Implications: This book makes a strong addition to a young person’s book collection. It brings students to a reality they have been completely unaware of in the past. While reading this book, students could do further research into the plight of the young child in Afghanistan. They could also investigate organizations show more established to ease the suffering of children affected by the Taliban and war effort. Students may even be compelled to create a project or event that raises contributions for that organization. show less

Deborah Ellis does a magnificent job portraying the lives of women being ruled by the Taliban in this book. I am ashamed to admit that I don’t know a lot about the culture of Afghan or the severe struggles these people endured to survive under Taliban rule. The restrictions on females described in this book prompted me to further research. It is amazing women, and children, could survive this heinous treatment. This book served a reminder of the cocoons we can weave ourselves into as we go about our daily lives, giving no thought to the outside world. The interaction of the female characters in this story made a huge impact on me. When Father is with them, the girls are rude to each other, bantering back and forth about everything. Rarely do they have a pleasant exchange. Because of the laws concerning women, even Mother, who in the past was a very active member of society, is stuck in her own little world within her apartment. As the story progresses, the women begin to rely on each other, and also on other females outside the apartment. Finally, the females in the story even begin helping others, seeing needs beyond their own and realizing their own strength and significance.
Library Implications: This book is an excellent addition to any library collection. It gives the reader, young and old alike, a perspective of Afghanistan few can even imagine. The reader is able to experience the plight of women being terrorized by the Taliban but also feel a sense of hope as show more the events of the story unfold. The student reading this book could further their study of Afghan women by focusing on present-day conditions of life for women. Although graphic in nature, the more mature student could focus their research on Taliban control tactics and battle strategies that have made it difficult for Afghans to survive in that war-ravaged land. show less

Kadohata did a great job of bringing characters to life in this, her first novel for young adults. The characters were very well developed, making the story all the more believable and genuine. The reader was able to feel the closeness between the sisters, the struggles the parents endured, and the loss that they all felt at the end of Lynn’s life. There were so many powerful scenes written into this story it becomes a roller coaster ride of emotions for the reader! The depth of grief becomes so real and encompassing the reader can actually feel the loss. Lynn was the constant in Katie’s life. When Lynn is gone, Katie knows it is her to make her life kira-kira for her family and herself. While the themes of Japanese-American hardships and labor issues are addressed in this book, the story becomes so much more complex and compelling with its underlying themes. A GREAT read!
Library Implications: One of the most important things to Lynn and eventually Katie is the diary. Students could be encouraged to start their own journal. They could write for a week and then discuss the topics they wrote about. Students could compare and contrast topics of importance and why they included those thoughts in their diaries. Students could also research diaries kept by famous people. Readers could also focus on the labor movements of the time period and how unions have come to affect the job market and economy.

A Step From Heaven recounts the story of Ju and her family as they immigrate to Mi Gook in hopes of a better life. The family struggles financially and personally as they attempt to go through the acculturation process in America. Immigration is one of the most significant changes a human can experience, and is even more traumatic for adults. Erik Erikson’s human development theory divides a person’s life into stages, each one building on the previous stage. This theory spans from infancy throughout adulthood and to death. When an adult immigrates, the feeling of up-rootedness and loss of identity is sometimes overwhelming. This feeling of loss has been found to be greater for men than women. (Kim, Gaa, Swank, and Liberman, 1998). I felt this struggle was portrayed very accurately through the actions of Apa. The scene in the Immigration office really contrasts Ju’s acculturation with that of her father. It could be argued that Ju holds a power over her father in that instance and he can feel it as he relies on her for information. The other scene where this feeling of dissimilation occurs is when he tells Ju she is too American. At that point, it is more than evident that Apa is not regaining a sense of security or identity in America.
Library Implications: At its most general level, this is a book about immigration. There are several underlying themes related to family that almost every reader could identify with: financial struggles, employment concerns, verbal show more and physical abuse, and parental abandonment. You could also discuss the struggle adolescents go through to make new friends but hide their short-comings. At the end of the story, it is discovered that Ju’s mother comes from a wealthy family. It becomes apparent that Apa felt very insecure about his ability to provide adequately for his wife. Older students could also examine the role social status plays in the interactions of people.
References:
Kim, Saekyung; Gaa, John; Swank, Paul; Liberman, Dov. (1998). Identity Transformation of Korean Immigrants. Texas: University of Huston. show less

This book is a great story of adoption that many families can relate to. It has personal meaning for me as it was the first book added to my niece’s book collection when she was adopted from China. It takes me back to that first summer we were able to spend with her. I believe it was a character in Inkheart (Funke, 2003) that described books as memory keepers. The mind links books we read to time periods, places, or events in our lives. This couldn’t be truer in regards to this book! Despite developmental delays when first joining our family, Ty is now in first grade and is a shining example of the effect loving parents have on a young child. Many studies have been conducted on Chinese adoptees to Americans and how parents must help these children maintain their Asian identity as they mature. Some universities, such as the University of Maryland, will begin offering coursework in the “adoptee experience.” These courses will help students understand the cultural rules that force families to give up children or see America as a better alternative to life in the adoptee’s native land. While coursework is a good attempt at helping students find answers, no coursework in the world will compete with an open, loving relationship with parents, biological or adoptive.
Library Implications: The librarian will encounter adoptive students in the library, whether American-born or of diverse back grounds. This book is a great way to start a discussion of adoption with older show more children. The culture of China and other countries could be studied relating to adoption. Family dynamics could also be compared among countries, and the role extended families have in various cultures.
** The topic of adoption can be very personal for some students and the librarian should consider carefully the depth of the study and perhaps even notify parents before the topic is introduced. show less

This story is a rare find for young children and adults alike. It tells of a little girl who is exposed to the scat music of Louis Armstrong by her mother. The illustrations depict a young girl and her mother dancing and jumping to the music. That night she dreams of scat music and makes her own scat music about bubble gum. The scat sounds are written around the illustrations, encouraging young readers to make the sounds the girl creates. At the end of the book, it gives a brief biography of Louis Armstrong. It also explains what scat music is and how it works to create sounds in music. It also gives examples of other people in music who are known for their success with this technique.
Library Implications: This story is a great tie to books and music. It allows the librarian to use technology to introduce children to video and sound recordings of people such as Louis Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald and Mel Torme. It could be used with the story Bud, Not Buddy (Christopher Pual Curtis, 1999) to discuss the impact of African-American musicians had on American culture. For beginning readers, connections could be made between the scat sounds and phonetics. Sounds could be sung and then spelled phonetically on the page, connecting sound and print in a meaningful way. The book also gives young readers a rare opportunity to play with the sound of the language seen on the page.

This story was a fun read with interesting characters and some unexpected twists that add an element of surprise to the end. When the main character, Bud, is orphaned, he finds clues as to the location of his father and sets out to find him. During the story, the reader gets a glimpse of African-American life during the Depression. Bud experiences life in the cardboard “Hooverville” camps, witnesses the hardships of families as they struggle to survive, and attempts to ride the rails like others traveling west. The unexpected part of the story is the musical influences African-Americans had on the culture of America during the Depression. The reader is introduced to members of an African-American big band that provide entertainment to people who want to forget their financial woes. The subject of African-American contributions to music is rarely addressed in books, making Bud, Not Buddy an important contribution to any young-adult library.
Library Implications: This book is a valuable tool for the librarian. It is a great aid in the discussion of the Great Depression and how African-Americans were affected. The reader could also do in-depth study of the transient nature of families and the camps that emerged as people tried to help each other during the financial trials of the Depression. Parallels could also be drawn to experiences of people now as a new financial struggle affects modern-day America. The book can also be used as a catalyst for the study of show more African-American music in the culture of America. Technology allows the librarian to introduce students to a variety of recordings reflecting musical styles related to time periods in history. Different types of instruments, such as spoons, harmonicas and cigar-box guitars could also be researched, made and played. FUN! show less

In this autobiographical work, Maya Angelou relates to readers rich details of a life full of segregation, poverty, and hope. The book begins with the abandonment of Angelou and her brother. As their story unfolds, each child experiences events that impact them in profound ways and serve to emphasize social and cultural implications of growing up African-American. One theme in the book is the role religion played in the lives of the southern community where Angelou lived with her grandmother. Throughout the book, there are descriptions of tent revivals, church services and scripture verses that appear to have influenced how Momma raised the children. After the tent revival description in particular, the people recounted how they were the lowly and poor of the Bible who would be in Heaven. It was their place to bear their burdens here on earth and God would reward them with deliverance. Just as God had brought the children of Israel safely through the Red Sea, so had God led an African-American chosen people through the waters of slavery to the safe ground of freedom (Wills, 2006). This makes some question the effects Christianity had on slavery and segregation. If African-Americans did not believe they needed to wait on God’s deliverance, would they have rebelled and saved themselves?
Library Implications: This award-winning book has many functions in the library setting. In its most basic use, reading this book gives young adults insight into the life of show more African-Americans from a southern and western cultural viewpoint. The life of the children as they bounce between family members is very incongruent and could lead to a study of regional reactions to African-Americans. Educational experiences of African-Americans and their white counterparts were very different, which could lead to a discussion of the effects of education for both groups. The role of African-Americans during World War II could also be researched, possibly utilizing video conferencing for interviews.
References
Wills,David W. (2006). African-American Religion: A Documentary History Project. Massachusetts: Amherst College.
Maffly-Kipp, Laurie. (2005). African American Religion, Pt. II: From the Civil War to the Great Migration, 1865-1920. North Carolina: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. show less

Having never read any of Mildred Taylor’s work, (I am embarrassed to say), I was AMAZED by the depth of social and cultural issues she was able to convey in 53 pages! The story takes place during one short afternoon. What can happen in one short afternoon? I was very skeptical, and assumed I would use this book in middle elementary classrooms, and it would be a very basic look at African-American life. I could not have more wrong! This book portrays a struggle between African-Americans and whites for the respect they both think they are entitled to and the lengths they will go to get it. It also demonstrates the pride both men feel for their race. This series of unfortunate events is a mirror image of hundreds of encounters between blacks and whites as they struggle throughout history.
Library Implications: This book is a great example of historical fiction for middle elementary school children; however its applications reach far beyond a good story. This book would be an excellent way to bring social studies, literature circles and the librarian all together. Because of its combination of short length and depth of information, older students can spend a small amount of time reading and still get a wealth of information that can be used for discussion groups and literature circles. This book also focuses on social interaction and the role segregation plays in the lives of African-Americans. This could launch a discussion on the question of segregation and if it still show more exists today, and if African-Americans are the only group to experience this type of degradation. show less

The Circuit follows a family as they cross the border between Mexico and America. They begin the arduous task of finding work and surviving in a place they thought would let them forget the poverty of Mexico. One of the main themes illustrated in the story is the importance of education. Education was thought to be the essential tool for success in American and Francisco’s parents were determined to provide this for their children. This theme is mirrored in the attitudes of Latinos coming to America today. Eighty-six percent of Hispanic parents agree that virtually all students are better off attending college than taking a job right out of high school (Gasbarra and Johnson, 2008). The unfortunate reality is that the education Latino Americans receive when arriving in America is not always equal to the education of their American peers. Language barriers, cultural differences and economic difficulties make it difficult for Latino children to finish high school, and even fewer have the luxury of looking ahead to college. (Pew Hispanic Center, 2005)
Library Implications: This book has many themes that could be explored by the middle school student, with the most obvious being the life and movement of the migrant worker based on the availability of work. Younger students could focus on the everyday life and possessions of the migrant worker as compared to their own lifestyles. On a philosophical level, older students could compare the social and political attitudes of show more Latinos and Americans during the Depression Era and modern times. This could be completed through the use of news media related to border issues and amnesty concerns. Mock news reports and interviews could be produced and posted on a blog for comments from other classes.
References:
Gasbarra, Paul and Johnson, Jean. A Matter of Trust: Ten Key Insights from Recent Public Opinion Research on Attitudes About Education Among Hispanic Parents, Students and Young Adults. New York: Public Agenda Press.
Pew Hispanic Research Center. (2005). Hispanics: A People on the Move .Washington, D. C.: Pew Hipanic Research Organization. show less

This story, written in first-person prose, gives insight into the Cuban struggle for independence from Spain. The protagonist, Rosa, is a selfless heroine, healing wounded from the war, caring for orphans, and even healing Spanish soldiers left to die on battlefields. Because she uses the plants and roots provided in the jungle, Rosa believes she has received her healing powers from God. Because this story is told from the Cuban perspective, it allows students to experience this war in a very different way than depicted in American history books. At the end of the book, Spain secedes and the American flag waves over Cuba. This is not seen by the Cubans as a victory; even with all the years of fighting for freedom, they are still denied the right to fly a Cuban flag. They realize that very people who inspired them by winning freedom from England will now be ruling over Cuba.
Librarians will find this book a valuable addition to their collection for many reasons. It can be used as a model for free-verse story telling, encouraging older students to attempt their own free-verse stories. This book could also be used as a way to contrast the civil wars of Cuba and the United States. Students can explore warfare, reasons for fighting, and even people of impact from each war. A study of women in warfare could also be conducted, with emphasis placed on similarities of women in very different cultures. Finally, students could further research plants and their healing properties, and show more learn how manufacturing these plants impact economies. show less