The Green Glass Sea

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Klages, Ellen. 2006. The Green Glass Sea. New York: Viking. ISBN 0670061344

PLOT SUMMARY

The year is 1943 and Dewey Kerrigan is on her way to be reunited with her father. Dewey’s father is one of many scientists working on “the gadget,” a top secret military project in Los Alamos, New Mexico. Although Dewey does not know what “the gadget” is she knows that it is supposed to help the Americans win World War II. When Dewey arrives in Los Alamos, she finds herself at home on the military base dubbed “the Hill.” She dedicates most of her free time to working on her radio and other mechanical contraptions. When an unexpected tragedy changes Dewey’s life, she must come to grips with not only how the world is changing, but also her uncertain future.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS

The Green Glass Sea is a fascinating story about life on the Los Alamos military base during World War II. Due to the relative currency of the time period contemporary readers will have little trouble following the story. Klages provides a balanced combination of fact and fiction. She references various styles of dress, food, and technology consistent with the 1940s, thus creating an authentic and compelling story.

The story is told in alternating chapters, focusing on the two main characters, Dewey and Suze. Klages characterizations of Dewey and Suze are honest and compelling. Readers come to feel like they really know the two characters. The girls’ experiences in their time on “the Hill” reflect the attitudes and ideas during World War II, particularly in reference to winning the war.  Although most readers will not identify with living on a top secret military base, they will relate to the girls’ desire for acceptance and attention. 

The Green Glass Sea is arranged in alternating chapters about Dewy and Suze, respectively.  Dewey is an independent and savvy young girl, yet she is still fragile. As she puts on a brave front for her father and everyone else around her, Dewey longs for her father’s attention and a normal family life. When her father suddenly dies, Dewey is no longer able to maintain her brave façade. Conversely, Suze is an insecure, tough girl who longs for acceptance from her peers. Suze is reluctant to get to know the girl dubbed “Screwy Dewey,” but she soon learns that she has never had a better friend.

Klages vivid depiction of Los Alamos and “the Hill” provide an authentic representation of life on the military base during World War II. Dewey describes the desolate landscape of New Mexico and Los Alamos during her train ride to the military base. She often points out how there is nothing for miles and miles. “The Hill,” with its legion of guards and top secret buildings, is a critical component of the story. Dewey and Suze rarely leave the base, so the setting is conveyed in great detail, further adding to the story’s authenticity.

As the scientists on “the Hill” work tirelessly to perfect “the gadget” the powerful theme of war ethics emerges. Although the scientists are eager to win the war, the implications of their discoveries are not realized until the very end of the book. The Green Glass Sea provides an opportunity to discuss war, grief, and the ethical use of knowledge/power.

Klages does not provide a list of sources at the end of The Green Glass Sea, but she does acknowledge people and resources that she found helpful in researching the book. She also includes an author’s note and a list of recommended sources.

REVIEW EXCERPTS

VOYA, 2007: “The book is well written, with intelligent characters and understandable descriptions of the place and the work being accomplished. Its well-researched information, including the debate that occurred when the scientists realized what they had created, will appeal to readers of historical fiction.”

LIBRARY MEDIA CONNECTION, 2007: “The description of this part of World War II is interesting and provocative. This well-paced story gives us an insight to a different part of the war and how it affected the people that were involved in the Manhattan Project. Recommended.

BOOKLIST, 2006: “The novel occasionally gets mired down in detail, but the characters are exceptionally well drawn, and the compelling, unusual setting makes a great tie-in for history classes.”

AWARDS

*Scott O’Dell Award Winner, 2007

*Judy Lopez Award Winner, 2007

CONNECTIONS

*Share other books about the Manhattan Project, like:

·         The Secret of the Manhattan Project by Doreen Gonzales

·         The Ultimate Weapon: The Race to Develop the Atomic Bomb by Edward T. Sullivan

·         White Sands, Red Menace  by Ellen Klages

*Show students pictures of trinitite and visit the Trinity base website, so that students can see actual photographs of the blast site (http://www.wsmr.army.mil/PAO/Trinity/Pages/default.aspx).

*Divide students into two groups and have a debate about the use of the atomic bomb.

*Ask students to research a scientist that worked on the Manhattan Project and then write a short report about the scientist.

The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Kelly, Jacqueline. 2009. The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate. New York: Henry Holt. ISBN 9780805088410

 PLOT SUMMARY

The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate is the story of a young girl's self discovery during the early 20^th century. Calpurnia Virginia Tate, Callie Vee for short, is a spunky and curious eleven-year-old, who is a born scientist. One day, while sitting in her yard, Callie notices two different types of grasshoppers. She wonders why the green grasshoppers are little while the yellow grasshoppers are much bigger. In her quest for answers, Callie finds an unlikely companion in her cantankerous grandfather. Over the course of the next year Callie grows closer to her grandfather as he teaches her all about science. As Callie learns more about science her desire to become a scientist intensifies, much to the dismay of her conservative mother.

Through Callie's adventures, readers learn about various scientific facts, like evolution, the life cycle, and microscopic organisms, as well as events that had a great impact on society, like the invention of the telephone and automobile. Kelly has discovered a unique way to blend science, history, and fiction into an appealing and interesting story.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Jaqueline Kelly's story of a precocious young girl in 1899, Texas is the perfect blend of fact and fiction. Kelly flawlessly incorporates factual information about science and history into a beautiful story of hope and determination. Callie's story proceeds in chronological order over the course of a year. Each chapter of the book begins with an excerpt of Charles Darwin's The Origin of Species, which highlights a particular event in Callie's life.

Callie is full of charisma, so readers can't help but cheer for her as she longs to break away from the traditional expectations of young girls in the 20^th century. Calpurnia's grandfather, whom she calls “granddaddy” starts off as a bit of a mysterious character, but as his relationship with Callie grows, readers discover his complexity and genuineness. Kelly does an excellent job describing all of the supporting characters in her book, readers come to know the whole Tate family.

Kelly flawlessly captures life in 1899, Texas. Her description of Fentress and the Tate's cotton and pecan farm provide a clear image of rural life during the early 20^th century. Kelly's use of southern dialect and terms/phrases common in 1899 brilliantly capture the essence of the time period. Her description of horse-pulled gigs, the town's first telephone connection, and various social events transport readers back in time. The scientific terms and historical references throughout the book lend credibility and authenticity to the story.

As Callie struggles to follow her dreams, she is pressured by her mother to follow a more traditional path of sewing and cooking. The story's theme of following one's dreams is universal, so even today's youth can relate to Callie's desire to carve out her place in the world. The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate encourages discussion about the role of women during the early 20^th century and the advantages of living in today's society.

Jacqueline Kelly does not provide a list of sources for the information included in the book. In the author's note, she mentions that not everything in the book is accurate, so readers must conduct their own research to distinguish fact from fiction. Kelly does include a list of possible discussion questions, which promote critical evaluation of the text.

REVIEW EXCERPTS

KIRKUS REVIEWS, 2009: “Readers will finish this witty, deftly crafted debut novel rooting for "Callie Vee" and wishing they knew what kind of adult she would become.”

LIBRARY MEDIA CONNECTION, 2009: “The references to the inventions that come about add charm to the story. Recommended.”

BOOKLIST, 2009: “Many readers will hope for a sequel to this engaging, satisfying first novel.”

AWARDS

*John Newbery Medal, 2010 Honor Book

*Josette Frank Award, 2010 Winner

CONNECTIONS

*Discuss Charles Darwin and share some books about his life and work, including:

• The Origin of Species by Charles Darwin
• DK Biography: Charles Darwin by David C. King
• Charles Darwin by Kathleen Krull

*Ask students to conduct research on one of the scientific topics Callie mentions and then write a short essay about the topic.

*Ask students to discuss how the lives of women have changed since 1899. A good website for obtaining pictures and additional information about women's history is the National Women's History Museum (www.nwhm.org).

What Do You Do With a Tail Like This?

BIBLIOGRAPHY

            Jenkins, Steve and Robin Page. 2003. What Do You Do With a Tail Like This?. Ill. by Steve Jenkins. Boston: Houghton Mifflin Company. ISBN 9780618800452

PLOT SUMMARY

What Do You Do With a Tail Like This? by Steve Jenkins and Robin Page is an entertaining and informative book about animals. The book is arranged in a way that creates suspense and excitement for the reader. Illustrations of various parts of an animal’s body, like feet, eyes, or ears are accompanied by a question, like “What do you do with eyes like these?” The reader then flips the page and sees a full size image of the animal accompanied by a quick fact about how the animal uses a particular part of his body. Jenkins and Page discuss 30 different animals, from scorpions to monkeys and how these animals use their body parts in unique ways. The question and answer format of this book will keep children interested until the very end and will likely stimulate a lively discussion about animals.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Steve Jenkins is an award-winning author of children’s non-fiction books. In What Do You Do With a Tail Like This? Jenkins and Page have created a fun and engaging concept book about animals. The book follows a clear pattern, which is a general question about an animal’s body part followed by a more specific answer about a particular animal. The short questions and the way that the illustrations are arranged will pique young children’s interest. Children will enjoy trying to guess which animal the body part belongs to and how the animal uses that particular part. 

Jenkins’ collage illustrations are vibrant, varied, and accurately depict the various animals in the story. Illustrations alternate between showing a portion of the animals’ body to revealing the whole animal with accompanying facts. The back of the book includes a detailed definition and description of the animals mentioned. 

Sharing What Do You Do With a Tail Like This? is a great way to introduce young children to informational books. The illustrations and minimal text help young children focus on the information presented and encourage curiosity and interaction. The facts and animal descriptions at the end of the book encourage further study about animals.

REVIEW EXCERPTS

THE BULLETIN OF THE CENTER FOR CHILDREN’S BOOKS: “With some kind of critter for everyone, this will be useful for entry-level natural history.”

LIBRARY MEDIA CONNECTION, 2004: “This wonderfully creative and well-designed book will be fun for early readers who enjoy animals.”

BOOKLIST, 2003: “This is a striking, thoughtfully created book with intriguing facts made more memorable through dynamic art.”

AWARDS

*Charlotte Zolotow Award, 2004

*Randolph Caldecott Medal, 2004 Honor Book

CONNECTIONS

*Discuss the information children found most surprising. Then have students nominate and vote for the animal they would like to learn more about. Create a follow up lesson about the chosen animal.

*Give the children art supplies and ask them to create a picture of their favorite animal from the story.

*Share other books by Steve Jenkins, like:

• What Do You Do When Something Wants to Eat You?
• Biggest, Strongest, Fastest
• Never Smile at a Monkey: And 17 Other Important Things to Remember

Bodies from the Ice: Melting Glaciers and the Recovery of the Past

BIBLIOGRAPHY

            Deem, James M.. 2008. Bodies from the Ice: Melting Glaciers and the Recovery of the Past. Boston: Houghton Mifflin Company. ISBN 9780618800452

PLOT SUMMARY

Bodies from the Ice: Melting Glaciers and the Recovery of the Past is a photo essay book by James M. Deem. Deem’s book details the numerous people and artifacts discovered after the melting of glaciers. The book opens with the discovery of Ötzi in 1991. Ötzi was a man that lived during the Copper Age and when his frozen remains were discovered in the Ötzal Alps, he was estimated to be about 5,300 years old. Actual photographs of the excavation site, Ötzi, and scientists provide an accurate and dramatic look at the historical finding. 

Deem goes on to provide details of numerous other archaeological discoveries due to melting glaciers. Some of the other discoveries include Incan children in the Andes Mountains and the body of famous mountain climber George Mallory on Mount Everest. Deem is quick to point out that although the melting of glaciers has uncovered interesting pieces of history, there may be dire consequences for the planet. He encourages readers to learn how to protect the environment and to visit a glacier while they still have to opportunity to see one.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Bodies from the Ice: Melting Glaciers and the Recovery of the Past is a fascinating book, which reveals Deem’s passion for glaciers and the history locked inside. In the book, Deem provides many interesting facts about glaciers, archaeology, and global warming. Readers will enjoy the variety of images as well as the supplemental facts and stories presented throughout the text. 

Deem’s use of photographs help the reader to understand the text and make the book accessible to readers of various ages. The large photographs, on every page, facilitate interest in the story and help to break up the text. The graphic photographs of Ötzi’s excavation will intrigue readers of all ages, especially those interested in science and history. Although the book is somewhat lengthy, the combination of text and photographs make this book an interesting and informative read.

Although users of all ages will enjoy looking at the book, it is best suited to older readers or in incremental portions. Deem has included a table of contents, index, and bibliography, which allows readers to use the book as a research source. He also includes a list of websites that provide more information about topics discussed in the book. Bodies from the Ice: Melting Glaciers and the Recovery of the Past has been thoroughly researched and is supported by credible sources. The content of the book encourages further study of science and history topics.

REVIEW EXCERPTS

NATIONAL SCIENCE TEACHERS ASSOCIATION: “The great photos make the content accessible to students who are even younger than the intended secondary audience.”

LIBRARY MEDIA CONNECTION, 2009: “This book is a treat to look at, but is also chock-full of enough text and factual information to be a great resource for research reports.”

BOOKLIST, 2008: “Heavily illustrated with historical memorabilia as well as photos of bodies, scenery, artifacts, and rather simplistic maps, this offers a lot to look at and learn about.”

AWARDS

*Robert F. Sibert Information Book Medal, 2009 Honor Book

*SB & F Prize for Excellence in Science, 2010 Finalist

CONNECTIONS

*Share other “Bodies” books by James M. Deem, like:

• Bodies from the Bog
• Bodies from the Ash: Life and Death in Ancient Pompeii

*Visit the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology website (www.iceman.it), so that students can see how Ötzi is being preserved.

*Ask students to select one of the italicized terms from the text and then conduct further research on the term. Ask students to present their findings in a short essay.

*Ask students to select one of the people mentioned in the book and write a short biography about the person.

Lincoln Tells a Joke: How Laughter Saved the President (and the Country)

BIBLIOGRAPHY

            Krull, Kathleen and Paul Brewer. 2010. Lincoln Tells a Joke: How Laughter Saved the President (And the Country). Ill. by Stacy Innerst. Boston: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. ISBN 9780152066390

PLOT SUMMARY

Kathleen Krull and Paul Brewer’s Lincoln Tells a Joke: How Laughter Saved the President (And the Country) is a unique take on the life and career of Abraham Lincoln. The opening of the book starts with the phrase “Poor Abraham Lincoln” and proceeds to list all of the things that made President Lincoln’s life difficult: his harsh childhood, family troubles, and the Civil War. Nevertheless, President Lincoln was always able to find the humor in any situation, as illustrated by the numerous quotes and sayings used throughout the story. Krull and Brewer’s entertaining and engaging book chronicles Lincoln’s lifetime love of laughter, from his childhood on the harsh frontier up until his death at Ford’s Theater.  Lincoln Tells a Joke: How Laughter Saved the President (And the Country) provides a gentle introduction to history and many opportunities for discussion about Abraham Lincoln.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Lincoln Tells a Joke: How Laughter Saved the President (And the Country) is a delightful read--rich in history and humor. Krull and Brewer provide enough facts to make the book educational, but they keep the content light by flawlessly integrating some of Lincoln’s funniest and most famous quotes.The layout of the book is logical and presents a clear sequence of events, which makes it easy for children to see how Lincoln's life changes over time.

Children will be hooked on Lincoln Tells a Joke: How Laughter Saved the President (And the Country) from the first page. They will be eager to learn how Abraham Lincoln overcame adversity by using his sense of humor. Quotes like “I’d rather read, tell stories, crack jokes, talk, laugh,” humanize Abraham Lincoln and make it easier for children to relate to him and recognize him as a real person. 

The illustrations by Stacy Innerst add to the overall appeal of the book. The big, exaggerated, acrylic illustrations provide a fun depiction of Lincoln, his life, and his presidency. Innerst often depicts Lincoln as a larger-than-life character, much too big to be captured on one page. Although Innerst’s illustrations are whimsical they also brilliantly capture the likeness of Abraham Lincoln, the White House, and the Lincoln Memorial, thus lending credibility to the book's contents. 

Kathleen Krull is a seasoned writer of non-fiction, which is apparent from her attention to detail and the inclusion of supporting sources at the end of the book. The story is fun and interesting and provides a great deal of historical information without being dry or overly wordy. The exaggerated illustrations and humorous quotes make the story an engaging and entertaining read. Moreover, the book lends itself to further discussion about Abraham Lincoln and the Civil War. 

REVIEW EXCERPTS

KIRKUS REVIEW: “It’s a quirkily specific biography, but, as with Deborah Chandra and Madeleine Comora’s wonderful George Washington’s Teeth, illustrated by Brock Cole (2003), it reveals the human side of an American icon in an unusual, lively and thought-provoking way”

SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL STARRED BOOK REVIEW, 2003: “Krull is an expert at teasing out the fun, quirky sides of her subjects and sharing them in a way that is both genuine and engaging. This take on Lincoln is no exception.”

BOOKLIST: “Innerst’s acrylic artwork feels homey and humorous, very much in the style of his previous work with Krull, M is for Music (2003), and while not every word or picture is necessarily a hoot and a holler, they do present a positive portrait that humanizes the lionized man for whom it was ‘a love of laughter that kept him going’.”

AWARDS

*Smithsonian Notable Book for Children, 2010

CONNECTIONS

*Share other picture books about Abraham Lincoln, including:

• Abe Lincoln: The Boy Who Loved Books by Kay Winters
• Abe Lincoln’s Hat by Martha Brenner
• Abraham Lincoln by Ingri and Edgar Parin D’Aulaire

*Create a stove pipe hat (like one found here: http://crafts.kaboose.com/paper-plate-abe-lincoln-hat.html) and ask children to perform a choral reading of The Gettysburg Address. 

*In order to reinforce the information in the book, ask children to create a visual timeline of Abraham Lincoln’s life.