I found it hard to get into this novel, and wondered if its intended audience (primarily boys in Grade 7-9) would persevere. However, I did persist and found the novel overall quite satisfying. I liked the author's sensitivity to the topic of grief and how it affects people differently, adults and kids. Although it took a while for me to appreciate the characters, in the end, I found the characters likable and real. A good read and one I would keep in my YA section for sure.
This #bookaday Canadian YA was good, but it didn't stand out for me. There are quite a few novels for young adults on the theme of grief that have better developed characters, in my opinion. I think teens will like it, but for uniqueness and literary quality, it was just okay.
First #bookaday for summer 2013! This was a fast read like many by Sherrard, and although not a deep read, I enjoyed it. I appreciated the friendly introduction to free verse for YA readers--I know that after reading this novel, my daughter is now interested in reading more free verse and has since started reading Ellen Hopkins.
Overall, I found this book fascinating. I think I can now better understand the important role of character in our lives. In the end, I wanted better solutions but the takeaway lesson of the call for a positive mentor and role model is empowering to teachers.
My daughter suggested that I read this YA novel, and I must say it was a compelling read. The book is so sad, but also serves as an important reminder and lesson to young people and their teachers, too.
Certainly not an award winner, but it had a fun, Diary of a Wimpy Kid sort of feel; just not nearly as funny. It had a few moments though and Becky was an enjoyable enough character with no lack of opinion or commentary. I don't think grade 6 students would eat this one up, but perhaps in grade 3 and 4.
I expect our teen readers will enjoy this novel, especially with hype still strong for dystopian literature in the wake of Hunger Games series. Not as riveting as Hunger Games, but a good reader. I found myself skimming parts so perhaps the pacing was a little slow, strong characters.
I think this novel will be a hit with our students. Anytime I read a mystery novel, I remember how much I enjoy them and this was no exception. I must admit that I wasn't surprised at all by the connection between Annie, Michael and Kevin; still, younger readers would find this plot exciting, adventurous and mysterious. A well written novel.
I am sure that this historical fiction will help young readers better understand life in the Great Depression of the 30's in a way that a teacher just can't do. The main character, Bonnie, is geniune to the period and a characer I think adults and kids would equally love. Not without hardship, Bonnie seems to face each obstacle with courage and acceptance. Overall, I thought it was an excellent read that was appropriate as a Willow nominee in this age category.
This novel drew me in from start to finish. Although young readers won't learn as much history as is trademark of Walters, I felt thus novel captured the feel of war... fear, sorrow, excitement, nervousness. I was impressed, the plot was action-packed and characters engaging.
I really enjoyed this novel by David Skuy. The characters were well developed, along with an engaging plot, especially for hockey fans. I expect this one will be a hit with our YA readers.
It isn't often that I can't complete a book but this one just didn't connect. I worked at it for 5 days, finally abandonning it. Sorry. It was weird and dark, and not in a good, engaging way. The action was slow to evolve and just didn't make me want to finish. I won't be adding this one to my YA collection at school.
This short novel about a teen who testifies against her friend's step father was certainly full of action, but was lacking somewhat in character development. It was just okay for me. It was predictable and I think the author just tried to zip through the plot leaving little to simmer or ponder.
I enjoyed this novel much more than I expected given my less than avid design interest. However, the novel had a unique storyline, intertwined with typical teen conflict that resolves nicely (especially the confict between Tori and Anna), family complications that although don't seem to resolve happily do show that life has turns and twists but we cherish what we have, and of course a touch of romance which is sure to please young teens. A great choice for a Willow Award nominee and a great first novel for Colleen Nelson.
This was a good YA novel. It addresses being a resppnsible youth, and Alzheimer's in a thoughtful way. With just enough conflict and romance to keep young teens engaged, this one is a library YA collection must.
I struggled through this YA novel. I loved the premise and admit that it had some moments but overall lacked in the character department. I just never cared deeply enough about Brandon I guess... too bad.
So far this short mystery novel was my favorite Diamond Willow book nominee. It had strong characters, a worthy plot and was just a good mystery for young readers.
This short novel helps students understand friendships and acceptance. Well suited for children in grade 4-6.
This take of friendship, acceptance and empowerment is a must read for younger teens. Nolan does a brilliant job of helping readers understand the complexities, strengths and flaws within us all. In the end readers will certainly go away feeling a little inspiration to be the change they want to see.
This novel by Kerz has lots of elements that I appreciated (strong characters, conflict) but I felt it lacking something, perhaps humor or adventure. There was certainly opportunity given Gran and Aaron's personalities It just needed something more for me.
There is nothing I love more than a character with strength and courage, so I found it hard to love this one. Jess is certainly not a role model for teens, but I guess this book teaches from another's mistakes. Still I so wanted Jess to be a true friend to Casey that I was left feeling disappointed. At the same time I was glad that Jess didn't become a last minute and undeserving hero. Maybe this is one I need to ponder and discuss to appreciate.
I really enjoyed this new series with its suspense, romance and action. Not surprising, there was a waiting list for the digital title of this book on library2go; borrowed the school's copy and was glad I did. Not up there with Hunger Games for me, but a good read.
This one was okay. A quick read and perhaps best suited for reluctant readers with its hi engaging content. A strong lesson about addiction will last and hopefully hit home.
An interesting novel that follows Ghost through her journey on the streets to healing. Sometimes vicious portrayal of world that would be best suited for high school. Still a great story and worth a read.
A cute picture book that teaches students to accept people for who they are. Although perhaps not my favourite, I expect kids will love this one.
With its northern Saskatchewan setting, this picture book reminded me of growing up in Uranium City. A nice picture book to help students prepare for a move. I particularly liked some of the transitions the author used to organize her story... "I don't know Toronto, but I know here" and the repetiion of the phrase "but I know..." gave some warmth to the story.
This ebook (free online from Stenhouse) is rich in literacy, inquiry, social action, assessment, differentiation, engagement etc. The authors are master teachers who are able to bring the real world into the lives of their grade 1 students and teach them that they can make a difference at any age... and they do! An inspiring read that will really open your eyes to possibilities for authenticity, critical literacy and inquiry at any age.
This is a must read-aloud to integrate FNIM worldview into Social Studies in Middle Years (and even younger). Chief Dan George's beautiful poems and words will inspire you to reflect on what's important in life: generosity, courage, nature, love. I will definitely purchase this compilation for my LRC in fall.
As much as I loved this book, I am not sure that young adults would follow the complex storyline. I did enjoy the free verse, and loved the narration of the story through journal entries, especially that of Sandeep... he really drew me into the book. And then when Maya and Sandeep began to interact through the journal... well I was sold. I wasn't thrilled with the way Akbar was introduced to the plot, or his connection to Sandeep (it just seemed unlikely I guess)but I did like the proposed resolution.