Please post on your choice of reading in this category. Remember, you are reading like a media specialist, so it is not about your personal likes and dislikes. Include in your post:
a. Audience for whom the book is written
b. Audience to whom it will appeal (might differ from a.)
c. Particular strengths of the book
d. Particular weaknesses of the book
e. Any special considerations (artwork, curriculum links, community values, beliefs espoused, etc)
f. And, in the School Library Journal’s format: Your verdict, supported with details
No plot summaries and no spoilers, please. Failure to follow that rule will result in revocation of your authoring rights, guaranteed!!
King and the Dragonflies
ReplyDeleteWhat the back cover summary of King and the Dragonflies tells readers to expect is the story of King James, a twelve year old boy who is reeling from the death of his older brother Khalid, and coping with a strained relationship to his former best friend Sandy. This is already a lot of intrigue and mystery for one plot, and what the book actually delivers is so much more than that.
The book is written by Kacen Callendar, a self-identified Black, queer, trans person and has made a point of writing and publishing stories that appeal specifically to those audiences, who may oftentimes find themselves overlooked in literature, especially in YA. King and the Dragonflies will certainly appeal to those who share aspects of Callendar’s identity, though it will also find fans in people who know and love nonbinary individuals or want to learn more. In addition to identity, there are strong themes of grief and family, so readers who are seeking comfort during a time of loss or seeking a vehicle to connect with family will also be drawn to this story’s resonance.
This book is able to strongly communicate several interwoven plotlines and social discussions. No one theme or message outweighs any of the others; it holds space for them all. Another impressive feat is the portrayal of King’s transformation. He begins the book with a certain mindset on himself, his friends, and his family, and the readers are allowed a glimpse into his inner thoughts and know that he actually has a lot of doubts. By the end of the story, he has come into a different acceptance about many things and people in his life, and that change is very satisfying to read. Readers may only complain that all of this is accomplished in a relatively short book, it may leave them wanting more!
King and the Dragonflies has great potential to see a community spring up around it. People who have questioned their identity or had it questioned by others will find companionship in the characters within this story and others who have read and loved it. It is a particularly special story for aiming to promote the message of self-discovery and self-acceptance.
VERDICT: A thoughtful account of growing up and facing converging questions about identity, grief, and acceptance. King’s story will offer resonance for children and young adults finding their unique way in the world, and ultimately affirmation.
This sounds really intriguing, Emily. I have heard about this book from others so it was nice to read your thoughts. I plan to add it to my "to read" list for sure.
DeleteThis sounds like a great example of an #OwnVoices novel. I have heard many good things about this book!
DeleteCinder by Marissa Meyer
ReplyDeleteGr 6-12 - Cinder is a mechanic who struggles with her identity and value in a world filled with turmoil. When the crown prince stops by her shop to have his android repaired there is an undeniable spark between the two of them. As Cinder learns more about her identity, the more she feels the need to retreat from society to protect her secrets. At the same time she is battling the her feelings for the prince and a desire to help the people she loves and her country. Will Cinder be able to maintain her secrets about her identity while pursuing her heart’s desire? Will Cinder put others before herself? Will the prince still respect her if she reveals her secrets? A futuristic retelling of a classic fairy tale Meyer’s emotional tale of self -discovery, prejudice, and self-sacrifice addresses long standing themes continues into a futuristic world. VERDICT: A powerful story about the difficult journey of self-discovery and service to others over personal desires as well as prejudice that leaves you wanting more. While somewhat predictable at the beginning the plot twists and turns add a new dimension to a timeless tale making an interesting read for grades 8-10.
Hey Amy!
DeleteI am currently reading Cinder as well, and I am wondering the things that the questions in your review are asking! I really enjoy the conceit of the story being based around the traditional tale of Cinderella, but taking some unexpected twists that modernize it with the advent of technology. I was surprised to learn Cinder was published in 2012; it feels even more modern than that at times!
This book has been on the reading list for the course for a couple of years running. I think there is something that appeals to many readers about new takes on old tales.
DeleteAmy I liked this book as well and believe it should be in our library. Like Emily said I was surprised it was published in 2012 since it connects to our world right now, especially with the health crisis! I personally found it helpful as a reader that I had an idea for the map of the story since I knew the original, but the author slid in new details to keep us wanting to read more.
DeleteGrade 8 and up,The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes by Suzanne Collins is the prequel to the Hunger Games trilogy. Having read the Hunger Games books and watched the movies, this book is an automatic list-maker.
ReplyDeleteThis is the story of a young Coriolanus Snow (the future president of Panem). This is his coming-of-age story and how he becomes the man who eventually not only rules Panem but carves a role in the Hunger Games.
Of the 517 pages, most are skimmable. The plot drags on and on and on as 18-year-old Coriolanus mentors a tribute from District 12 all while trying to support his family and get through his final year of school. With the war not far in the past, the Capitol is slowly recovering and the Snow family is close to losing everything.
There are moments of excitement, heroism, tragedy, and even affection, but not to the level of Suzanne Collin's trilogy.
It isn't until the final few pages where the author's writing goes from detailed events that drag on to everything we needed to know about how "Snow lands on top". Had this not been on my grad class book list, it would have been an abandon for me. It was a true struggle and pain to finish this book.
The Verdict: With that being said, a die-hard Hunger Games fan will surely enjoy this glimpse into the past.
Hi Lisa! I didn't read the Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes though I read all the Hunger Games books as they were being released while I was in high school. I remember feeling at the time that the Hunger Games, the original book in the series, was the most interesting and I started losing the direction of the plot in the following books. I guess because of that, I am not totally surprised to learn that the prequel isn't fully satisfying either. I thought about picking up this book for old times sake, but I ended up listening to a podcast, Slate Spoiler Special, all about it instead and that was good enough for me! Maybe if you have read the story you could also listen to that episode and see if you agree or disagree with the hosts' opinions!
DeleteHey Lisa,
DeleteThanks for the review. I read all of the Hunger Games and was wondering about the prequel. I appreciate your thoughts as I determine whether or not I want to dive back in to the series. Sounds like I do! :)
Hi Lisa,
DeleteI also read the Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes and it was really interesting reading your review. I am a fan of the Hunger Games and I found this book to be extremely exciting. Yet I agree with you that there are portions of the book that seem to drag on. I will say though if you are a fan of the Hunger Games I consider this a must read!
I loved this book and thought it was just as good as the original trilogy. So, it was very interesting (and good) to read a different point of view. I am sorry it was a painful experience for you, but at the very least, I hope you are better informed about this book when kids ask for it in the library.
DeletePoisoned
ReplyDeleteThe retelling of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. Sophie a beautiful queen enters the woods with the huntsmen. Sophie a kind and caring princess who is faulted for loving everything and everyone. Constantly, being reminded that she is too weak to be a ruler. Sophie experiences many emotions on her journey to find the courage she needs to survive. She trusts everyone and soon it becomes a danger to her and those around her. The huntsman a man that loves Sophie takes her heart, yet she is still able to live due to the seven men that live in the dark forest. Will her experiences be enough to concur the evil around her, will she take back her kingdom, or will she fall to her death because she let her emotions get the best of her?
This is an incredible story that would be perfect for readers who know fairy tales, who love mystery. I would recommend this story for students that are in 5th grade and up. This story would appeal to those who love fairy tales and love a story about a princess who has only kindness in her heart. The strength of this book is that it constantly engaging the reader with new twists and turns. It reminds the reader of the fairy tales that we grew up loving, yet, gives a new perspective on how to overcome cruelty. The weakness of this story is that is a longer book than its original fairy tale.
However, it is a hard book to put down.
The belief of this story proves that kindness will always prevail and that it is the fastest way to concur against evil. Verdict: I would recommend this book to my higher leveled readers in 5th grade and up and to those who love fairy tales. It has you clinging to your chair with all Sophie's experiences that she must overcome to become a stronger leader for her people. This story also does an amazing job focusing on emotions while including other amazing fairy tales that we have come to love. The power of kindness with always be a stronger weapon used to defeat the cruelty among us.
I think another medium that would pair well with this book is the television series Once Upon a Time that is streaming through Disney +. It brings many fairy tale characters together in one story.
DeleteI really would like to read this book! I think it is great that ys readers can take the aspects they enjoyed from Everybody books and transfer them to more in depth books like this one.
DeleteThe Island of Dr. Libris by Chris Grabenstein
ReplyDeleteBilly is forced to spend the summer at a lakeside cabin belonging to a mysterious “Dr. Libris”. Bored and alone, Billy explores the island on the nearby lake, which he discovers brings characters from his imagination to life. Billy joins up with his neighbor, Walter, and characters from classic literature to fight the villains on the island and try to find the fabled hidden treasure.
The Island of Dr. Libris is full of fast and loose action, as Billy quickly moves from one conflict to another, each wackier than the last. The story is quick-paced and ever evolving, much like the imagination of a child. Billy’s ridiculous solutions to the kooky problems he encounters on the island are goofy and entertaining. The plot is driven by the silly dialogue between the zany characters, bringing their voices to life.
While enjoyable, the book as a whole lacked satisfactory structure. The ending is anticlimactic; while the book builds up to the discovery of Dr. Libris with frequent references to him, and the mysterious circumstances of the island, the “big reveal” was unspectacular, and the whole conflict is resolved in two uneventful pages.The reiterative concept of classic book characters being brought to life wasn’t explored in any new or interesting ways in the book.
Throughout the book, there are many references to classical literature, and while not necessary, background knowledge about these works would help place the characters and plot in context. This book is not a part of Chris Grabenstein’s famous Lemoncello series, although the cover art, concept, and title are similar.
This book is written for grades 3-7. I would agree that this is the age range is to whom the book would most appeal to. The illogical zaniness of the mini adventures and characters serves this younger audience well, while older audience members may trip up on the plot holes, and find the lack of a satisfactory overarching plot frustrating.
Verdict: I give it a single thumbs up. This is a silly, quick and fun shallow read. While it lacks in depth, it is creative and entertaining in the short-term. This overall fits well for older elementary aged readers, and younger middle schoolers.
I read the Mr. Lemoncello's Library books with enthusiasm; it is helpful to know how this title differs. I think if you have a kid who is interested in this book, you might also introduce them to Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory.
DeleteThis book sounds like one my son would have enjoyed as a reluctant reader at that age. He liked the silly, fast paced books. It may be a good one to recommend to others like my son. I haven't read the Lemoncello series either. I have plenty of books to keep me busy.
DeleteThe Giver by Lois Lowry
ReplyDeleteInterest Level: Grades 6-10
The thought-provoking, often uncomfortable and provocative dystopian novel centers around
Jonas, a boy who is coming of age in a nameless, utopian community. All seems perfect in the
community where Jonas lives with his “family unit”—there is no pain, hunger, poverty, violence, or
disease. But with time, it is revealed that all is not well in his ideal world.
Everyone is assigned a role in the community when they turn twelve and must leave behind their
childhood. During the “Ceremony of Twelve,” Jonas is assigned the role of Receiver of Memory, a
role that requires him to take on the burden of the memories of the community, bestowed upon him
by The Giver, an elder in the community. As Jonas goes through his training and takes on the
stimulating and often flawed memories of the past world, he becomes increasingly dismayed and
disillusioned by the disturbing “sameness” of the community. With the help of The Giver, Jonas
devises a plan to escape the community and look for a world beyond, described as “elsewhere.” The
ending of The Giver is powerful because the reader has a choice in what it means, which is what the
book is all about… integrity and the power of free will.
The Giver is a powerful story that slowly unveils the horror lurking behind perfection. Lowry is a
skillful writer who created a world where security and order are essential for a complacent and
content existence free of pain, desire, loss, and loneliness. However, she weaves the disquiet in the
air seamlessly and masterfully as the tension builds. You root for Jonas until the very end hoping
that he finds his way “elsewhere,” but you know that no matter what happened to him he is finally
free.
The story drags a bit at the beginning and there were themes I wish were explored further.
Overall, I appreciate that it was a tightly written story that skillfully developed characters and
built palpable tension in under 250 pages.
VERDICT: A must-have in any collection to accompany the great variety of dystopian novels
available. I think a wide audience would enjoy this book, upper elementary-adult.
This book remains widely circulated, even though it came out in the 90s. Have you read any other of Lois Lowry's books?
DeleteIt has been a while since I read The Giver. But I remember it being different from the movie version. Have you watched the movie and is it true to the book.
DeleteThe Thief, by Megan Whalen Turner - Winner of a 1997 Newberry Honor Medal
ReplyDeleteInterest Level: Grades 5+
What begins as a simple story about a thief who is pressed into service to steal an object for a king becomes an intriguing mystery that pulls the reader into this fast paced, highly engaging read for young adults. Gen, the main character, has enough sass and humor to be appealing and readers will enjoy the interplay between him and the various men the king has sent to guard him while they are on a dangerous quest to find and steal a treasure. With a surprising ending, the reader will discover that not all is as it seems for the thief or for the men he has journeyed with. Piecing together mythology, medieval times, and political jostling, the author creates a setting that is a perfect back drop to this intriguing book. Although a weakness I found was the large number of anachronisms that were out of place for the medieval time of the story, it moves quickly enough – and has enough twists and turns in it - where a young reader will not be bothered by them.
VERDICT: An intriguing mix of fantasy, mystery, and interpersonal relationships that will keep readers on edge until the very last word. Note: There are subsequent sequels.
This is the first I've heard of The Thief. If kids are interested in this series, what else would you recommend?
DeleteJoan,
DeleteThis is an older title. Is it a title that your students still read or what brought it to your attention?
Jenny - The author has written a number of fantasies, although in my opinion, this is her best. There are two sequels that kids might also want to try.
DeleteAmy - Like so many titles, I found out about this book from a student (or actually the student's parent) who is interested in fantasy. We were talking about various books and he brought this to my attention. I'm so glad he did. Although it is an older title, it is not a "dated" book in any way.
The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes – Suzanne Collins
ReplyDeleteThe prequel to the Hunger Games was much anticipated and it did not disappoint. This book for eight grade students and up will keep readers engaged throughout each chapter. Though this is considered a young adult book I think audience of high school and above will thoroughly enjoy this text. This story is about Coriolanus Snow and how he was morphed into the dangerous president during the Hunger Games while Katniss participated. The story is filled with action surrounding the Hunger Games, Peacekeepers, and the districts. Each chapter left on a cliff hanger which keeps the reader wanting to know what will happen next. The book is filled with strength and extremely well written, the only weakness I could determine was the length. Aspects of the story can get a little long and some sections of the text can be skimmed.
Verdict: This is a must have in a high school library and students who love the Hunger Games will be eager to dive into this great prequel.
I think we are in for a great discussion in class tonight with you loving this book and Lisa who did not. I will agree with both of you, having read the book, that there are portions that can be skimmed.
DeleteWarcross - Marie Lu
ReplyDeleteMarie Lu’s Warcross transports readers to a futuristic society where everything is dominated by a virtual reality game called Warcross. This book was written for ages 12-18. I do think that both advanced readers in the elementary age group and adults will really gravitate towards this book as well. This book has many strengths, including an incredible heroin of a main character who is impossible not to like. Additionally, this book has a little bit of everything; a lot of action, a romantic subplot, and beautifully descriptive language that makes it hard to put down. One of the weaknesses of this book is that some of the plot points feel a little predictable. A special consideration of this book is that it is similar (in concept only) to the story found in the book and movie version of Ready Player One. If you had a student who really enjoyed that book or movie Warcross would be an obvious recommendation for a next read.
Verdict: This addictive fast paced read will soon be a favorite of anyone who picks it up. From the futuristic and beautifully described setting to the romantic subplot this book has something for everyone. Additionally, the ending sets this story up perfectly for at least a book two.
This was mine... I thought I was signed in and I was not, and now I can not delete it. Yay for Mondays!
DeleteI was wondering if this book would pair well with Ready Player One! Thanks for making the connection.
DeleteCemetery Boys by Aiden Thomas is a contemporary fantasy novel about a transgender teen boy who wants to prove to his family that he is worthy of undertaking the magical responsibilities traditionally bestowed upon men in their Latinx community. Yadriel takes it upon himself to complete the ritual ceremony that grants men their powers, with the help of his cousin Maritza. After another of their cousins goes missing and is presumed dead, Yadriel tries to summon his spirit to find out what happened to him. But instead of his cousin, he summons the spirit of another boy that has died the same night- one of the bad boys from school named Julian. And Julian refuses to be ushered into the afterlife, so Yadriel is stuck with him.
ReplyDeleteCemetery Boys is a book written for young adults, but it offers a window into the experience of a transgender teen that is powerful and necessary for all adults to look through. It offers representation for the transgender community and addresses the hardships they may have to endure when they come out to their families and transition in society.
VERDICT: This is a fantastical, coming-of-age novel filled with magic, romance, and friendship that should be required reading for all high schoolers.
This sounds like a book that could possibly span across several genres. I look forward to hearing more in class tonight.
ReplyDeleteThe Lightning Thief (Percy Jackson & The Olympians 1) by Rick Riordan
ReplyDeleteGr 4-8-- In this first book of five, Percy Jackson, age 11, discovers why he has been struggling in school and more importantly, why he is actively being hunted down! He is a demigod (the son of a Greek god and human mother) and the prime suspect of Zues’ missing lightning bolt. The dispute over the lightning bolt is about to start a world war among the gods. Some believe Percy is to blame and others believe he is the one that must make it right. After a short training at the half-blood camp and an oracle prophecy, Percy, with the aid of two friends, set off on a hero’s quest to retrieve and return the lightning bolt to its rightful owner. Percy Jackson is clearly reminiscent of the quests and self-discovery of Harry Potter. Fans of Harry Potter are bound to enjoy this similar series. The book may not appeal to students that are tired of boy saviors and although there is one strong female friend, the characters of note are mostly male. The high-interest topic (Greek Mythology) and an action-packed fantasy adventure will provide many middle grade readers with the escape and entertainment factor they are seeking. VERDICT Highly entertaining fantasy series, especially for those that enjoyed Harry Potter. Purchase many copies due to high circulation, popularity, and upcoming TV series. Must read series in order. --- Jenna Stevens-Royer, 2021
I agree Jenna, this is a book where multiple copies need to be purchased for readers!
DeleteSpirit Hunters by Ellen Oh is about a girl who's family moves into a new house. There is Harper the main character and she has one brother, one sister, a mom and a dad. The moment they moved into this house Harper didn't feel right. There was something not sitting right with her about the house. Prior to moving into the house Harper had spent some time in the hospital after she got injured in a fire. There are memories that Harper loss after the fire and while she was in the hospital but she new that the things she couldn't remember were part of why she was feeling uneasy. Her 4 year old brother started to act strange and Harper new if she could only get her memories back she would understand why her brother was acting strangely and why the house made her uncomfortable.
ReplyDeleteThis book is recommended for students in 5-8 grades. I believe I would agree with this recommendation. 9th grade and up could definitely read it and be fine but they may find they are to old for this story. I wouldn't go much below 5th grade for the fact that it talks about ghosts, the spirit world and haunted houses. I know many kids that would probably get nightmares reading something like this.
Strengths of the book are that it is a fast read, and it keeps the reader interested in what will happen next. Weaknesses of the book is the fact the parents aren't as worried about their kids as they should be. Harper is having weird accidents and her brother's behavior had done a total 180 degree turn and they act like it is normal everyday life. Some of the family dynamics just doesn't seem real. Spirit Hunters received the Texas Bluebonnet Award 2018-2019.
Verdict: This is a good read for any middle schooler that likes a little horror and suspense. I would definitely make sure it is not someone who has troubles with nightmares. It was definitely a fun book to read.
It's interesting to read how MHL nominees in MN are often nominated for similar awards in other states.
DeleteA Song Below Water:
ReplyDeleteImagine you are terrified to be yourself, to allow your voice to be heard. Tavia feels like that everyday and the one person who let’s her be herself is Effie. A Song Below Water is the story of Tavia and Effie. They are sisters, brought together not as traditional family, but their bond is stronger than most. The girls live in Portland, Oregon and are in their junior year of high school. Like many girls their age they are struggling with where they fit in, how they feel about themselves, about their appearance and of course love interests. Now add on the additional stress of Tavia being a siren in a community that is not a fan of sirens. Effie is conscious of her looks and of the parts of her past she can not remember. After the news announces that a siren has recently been murdered tensions mount. The two girls must navigate the struggles of high school, overcome discrimination and find their own path, all as a gargoyle watches over their home!
This book provides direct connections to the Black Lives Matter movement, and what discrimination can do to a person’s mind and soul. Readers are able to explore the world of high school through different perspectives of Tavia and Effie as each chapter goes back and forth from each girl’s perspective. We also see that family comes in many different forms and that they may not always do the right thing even if they love you.
This book takes a while to get going and the reader will need to take some time with the first few chapters to get into the writer’s style. Some of the mythical references make it challenging to track characters.
The book was written for 13-15 year olds and I think it should focus on 15 and up due to the challenging content and vocabulary.
Verdict: The strength of Tavia and Effie’s sisterhood defies racism and sexism in a compelling story. Readers who can build their background and connect in the first few chapters will be rewarded with an exciting and beautiful ending for both characters.
Thanks for sharing last night in class about this book. I think it might be an insightful read for those who want to make connections to current events.
DeleteI started this book for this class, but gave up part way through chapter two, due to the awkward language and confusing set-up (thank you for acknowledging that in your post btw!). This review definitely makes me want to give it another try though! Maybe over the summer, when I have more time to invest in reading in one-sitting (vs. picking up and putting it down). I love the idea of weaving together fantasy with current events.
DeleteThe Golden Compass is the first book of the His Dark Materials trilogy by Philip Pullman. The book is written for young adults ages ten and up. It would appeal to young adults and adults who enjoy fantasy and science fiction.
ReplyDeleteThe story is about an eleven-year-old girl named Lyra. She lives in Oxford in a parallel universe in which people's souls exist outside their bodies in the form of animals. Lyra has grown up as an orphan at college, being raised and educated by the scholars and servants who reside there. When children start to go missing, including Lyra's best friend, she sets out to find out what happened to them and try to rescue them. Along the way, she learns surprising truths about herself, her family, and her world.
The Golden Compass has interesting, relatable characters. The story is engaging and likely to make readers want to know what will happen next. The world is vividly developed. The pacing is mostly good. The end of this book is cliffhanger that encourages interest in the sequel.
I didn't find many weaknesses in this book. There were maybe one or two plot points that were a bit unbelievable, even in this fantasy world. Some readers may also struggle a little with the British style of language or that the characters' speech is written out in ways like "But whatever spirit's moving this blooming needle en't that sort of spirit" (2007 ed.,p. 110).
One special consideration of this book is that, as mentioned above, it is the first book in a trilogy. It has also received several awards and recognitions, including a Carnegie Medal and an ALA Best Books for Young Adults selection. It might be worth noting that the Catholic church opposed this book, and the rest of the trilogy, because they believed it to be anti-Christian. There are also some violent and disturbing moments in the story. There is a movie and a television adaptation.
VERDICT: The strong female lead, adventurous story, and unique world make this book an excellent addition to any middle or high school library.
This sounds like this is an example of a book where language might be a strong doorway, or a deterrent if the dialogue proves distracting.
ReplyDelete"Cinder" by Marissa Meyer
ReplyDeleteThe tale of Cinderella has been many things: a beloved children’s fairy tale, a much darker iteration by the Brothers Grimm, even an animated movie classic. In Marissa Meyer’s Cinder, the story is re-imagined once again. This time, Cinder is a young woman living in a futuristic society, dealing with such phenomena as a raging pandemic, political unrest, and unending discrimination due to the fact that she is...oh that’s right, half-cyborg.
Cinder is a brilliant, compassionate, and strong heroine, pre-dating but also appealing to fans of Katniss from The Hunger Games and Beatrice Prior from Divergent. She will speak to a teenage audience looking for action, adventure, romance, and magic, as her story contains a little bit of all of that. Readers who enjoy intricate world-building and expansive plots that set up for many sequels will become immersed in this book and its subsequent series.
Readers may be drawn in by the promise of a familiar fairy tale, and one of its major strengths is how the book takes that premise and builds a whole new world around it. It creates a feminist twist that modernizes the classic tale, and even though the book was published in 2012, its discussion of political tension and discrimination will feel extremely relevant to our current day, and the subplot involving a worsening pandemic makes it even more pertinent to our moment. There are lots of plot twists within the book that will keep readers on their toes, and reveals that keep one from guessing any endings or resolutions too soon.
The book is quite long, and contains enough plotlines and subplots so as to sometimes become confusing or perhaps overwhelming to some readers. Readers unfamiliar with the complexities of high fantasy storytelling and world-building may find it too intricate to follow or to hold their attention. Some readers may love that the book sets up for sequels, while some may wish for more payoff in a resolution at the end of reading a longer story.
VERDICT: A modern, politically-aware re-imagining Cinderella, featuring a strong, independent protagonist who may prove to change the face of her technologically-advanced but socially-stunted world; a complex and futuristic story that will immerse lovers of fantasy.
It would be interesting to see how this book relates to readers in a greater capacity now that they have experienced a pandemic.
ReplyDeleteCemetery Boys, a fantasy novel written by Aiden Thomas, focuses on the journey of Yadriel, a transgender boy, who struggles to find his role in his family’s dynamic. Yadriel doesn’t fit the stereotypes of men in the Latinx culture. After tragedy strikes his family, Yadriel has to prove he is capable of performing magical rituals.
ReplyDeleteCemetery Boys is written for 9-12 grade but I would argue that it could appeal to readers as young as 7th grade. I also think that older readers would enjoy this book because it offers multiple different perspectives.
Verdict: This whimsical coming of age story is intriguing and thought-provoking.
~Zoe
I think you will find that many graphic novels can have a younger age span than originally written because images are so accessible for readers.
Delete