Yum! ¡Mmmm! ¡Qué Rico!: Americas' Sproutings by Pat Mora and Illustrated by Rafael Lopez

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Mora, Pat. 2007. Yum! ¡Mmmm! ¡Qué Rico!: Americas' Sproutings. Illustrations by Rafael Lopez. New York: Lee & Low Books. ISBN 978-1584-30271-1

SUMMARY
Pat Mora presents readers with a collection of fourteen haiku describing various foods and spices that come from North, Central and South America. Sidebars of additional information teach us where the food originated and how it's eaten. What a yummy way to learn about blueberries, cranberries, chocolate, tomatoes, papayas, vanilla and other delicious food.  Que rico!  

CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Pat Mora's Yum! ¡Mmmm! ¡Qué Rico!: Americas' Sproutings, has won many recognitions including being an ALA Children's Notable Book, a Texas Bluebonnet Award, a Chicago Public Library "Best of the Books," an ALA Top Ten Quick Picks for Reluctant Young Adult Readers, and an Americas Award Winner for the Consortium of Latin American Studies Programs. Mora's book is interdisciplinary; it discusses food and geography and is a great introduction to the Japanese poetic form of haiku. The haiku are fun and will inspire children to try new foods. I'm not a fan of papaya, but after reading its haiku, I'm tempted to try it again: "Chewing your perfume / we taste your leafy jungle / Yum! Juicy tropics."

Along with the haiku, the book is also informational; we learn where the food or spice originates, there is a description of the food item and how it can be eaten. In an author's note, Mora describes how she wanted to write a book of poetry on the native foods of the Americas and to use haiku, a seventeen-syllable poetic form. Since she likes diversity in her life, Mora decided to mix her interests to create this book. This is a great idea for children to realize: that beautiful things can be created if they blend together the things in life that interest them.  

The illustrations by Rafael Lopez uses acrylic on wood panels and are indicative of his strong graphic style with magical symbolism. He depicts people representing a cultural diversity of Latino descent in happy family settings, as well as having anthropomorphic smiling suns and dancing pineapples. Lopez is a master at using color, with each double-page illustration being bold and bright. Children will have fun looking at the cheerful and textured pictures. One of the more beautiful books that I've had the pleasure to review. 

Publisher recommendations: Interest Level K-6, Reading Level. 3. 

REVIEW EXCERPTS
...an imaginatively vibrant book about crops native to the Americas. Each food has a brief history telling where they are grown, what uses other than food they have, and a haiku all its own. The fantastic artistry brings to life this book for an audience that might otherwise not take a second look...thoughtfully compiled, word choice is a bit overwhelming for the younger audience yet too basic for the next age level...Still, the illustrations bring the kids back for a second and third look, which reinforces the facts the author shares about these diverse crops.--Children's Literature

Using English and a smattering of Spanish words, Mora crafts a playful introduction to each [food]...the sense of whimsy is further underscored in Lopez's colorful acrylic on wood-panel illustrations. Artful compositions and brilliant complementary colors bear out the book's multicultural themes.  The art conveys an infectious sense of fun...Teachers will find this a welcome additional to their social-studies units, but it should also win a broad audience for its inventive, fun-filled approach to an ever-popular topic: food. -- School Library Journal. 

"This inventive stew of food haiku celebrates the indigenous foods of the Americas." -- Booklist

"Mora's descriptive poetry features wonderful word choices and gets it right to the essence of each food...Perfect for sharing as part of the curriculum or just for fun." --Book Links

"In this cross-curricular treat, imaginative...acrylic illustrations...are paired with playful haikus and a paragraph of information to introduce 14 foods indigenous to the Americas..." -- SLJ Curriculum Connections 

CONNECTIONS
-Have students list 10 of their favorite foods and create a haiku poem choosing one.

-In art class, using the foods listed in Mora's book, have students create a collage or paint a picture. 

-Using a map, plot the countries and/or states mentioned in the book.  Ask students if they know other countries or states that are famous for a particular food, for example, Washington apples, French cheese, Hungarian goulash, etc.

-Discuss with students the food mentioned, examples are chili, chocolate, corn, cranberry, papaya, peanuts, pineapple, potato, and pumpkin.  Ask students if they've eat the food before and where it can be found in a grocery store.

-If teachers have an account with "TeachingBooks.net, there is a link for this book with activities.  http://www.teachingbooks.net/tb.cgi?tid=10318&a=1

-Students may also enjoy Pat Mora and Rafael Lopez's other book:
     Book Fiesta!: Celebrate Children's Day/Book Day. ISBN 978-0061288777

-Students may enjoy the following series:
     Erdosh, George. "Cooking Throughout American History." Published by PowerKids Press.
     Schul, Mari. "How Fruits and Vegetables Grow." Published by Pebble Books.

The First Part Last by Angela Johnson

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Johnson, Angela. 2003. The First Part Last. New York: Simon & Schuster. ISBN 0689849222

SUMMARY
The First Part Last is a beautifully written and emotionally charged Young Adult novel about teenage pregnancy written from a boy's perspective. Bobby and Nia are just kids..but on Bobby's sixteenth birthday Nia tells him she's pregnant. When the unthinkable happens, Bobby decides to raise his daughter, Feather, himself. This is a story about being a teenage father who decided that "none of those people on the wall look like the kind of family me and Feather's gonna be." 

CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Winner of the 2004 Coretta Scott King Award, the 2004 Michael L. Printz Award and a top ten choice for ALA's 2004 “Quick Picks for Reluctant Young Adult Readers,” the Young Adult novel, The First Part Last is a welcome departure from most books about African Americans. There's no drug use, violence or ghettos, just two loving families that want the best for their children in an emotional and life-changing situation. Written with "Then" and "Now" chapters, Johnson text is poetic describing a young, teenage boy desperately trying to hold on to his childhood, while accepting responsibility for his daughter, Feather; " I just smile and try to keep from curling up in the baby carrier with the kid." 

Johnson writes the story in first person narration from the perspective of Bobby, and allows Bobby to beautifully express his confusion over the changes in his life and his love for the baby, stating "I look into her clear eyes that know everything about me, and want me to be her daddy anyway."  Johnson's characters are recognizable to any teenager - they go to school, want to have fun and go to parties. When Bobby becomes aware that college will have to be put off, he realizes that he won't be able "...to meet people I might get to know forever."  This is a book that will have teenagers thinking about their choices. 

Recommended for grades 7 and up, this touching book is a welcome addition to the teenage pregnancy genre; especially because it's only one of a few written in the male perspective. 

 REVIEW EXCERPTS
...In a powerful, spare read that will grip you on several levels, Johnson delivers a worthy continuation of Heaven. The characters' relationship dynamics...are deep yet subtle, while the main character is one not often found in YA literature...an original read that will stir you to the core.--Barnes and Noble Review 

"Narrated in first-person point of view...this adolescent novel depicts life before and after having a child...The title as well the book's division into four parts help emphasize the tremendous impact that Feather, Bobby's baby daughter, has on the young protagonist. By setting the book in New York, Angela Johnson helps debunk many common stereotypes. The novel attempts to teach about life, growth, and maturity. Johnson does a good job of showing the impact that having a child can have on life."--Children's Literature

"There is believable language, with occasional swearing and some references to Bobby's sexual experiences...Johnson has a way of getting to her readers' emotions with few words, creating characters we really care about. Her young people are thoughtful, conscientious, and loving—certainly with failings, but trying to do better. (An ALA Best Book for YAs and winner of the Coretta Scott King Award.) Exceptional book, recommended for junior and senior high school students."--KLIATT

"I'm really glad that Johnson wrote this prequel to Heaven. Bobby was a character that everyone wanted to know more about. This well-written book is not like anything that I've ever read before. It goes fast and has realistic fiction, romance, and suspense all in one. Most teen pregnancy books are about what the girl goes through, but this one is written from a different, exciting angle. Both girls and boys can read it." --VOYA

"By narrating from a realistic first-person voice, Johnson manages to convey a story that is always complex, never preachy. The somewhat pat ending doesn't diminish the impact of this short, involving story. It's the tale of one young man and his choices, which many young readers will appreciate and enjoy."--Kirkus


CONNECTIONS
-For teachers, this journal article will give you insight how to use the book in Health class.
http://scholar.lib.vt.edu/ejournals/ALAN/v37n1/pdf/hill.pdf

-The Wild Geese Blog contains activities, topics for class discussion and multiple intelligence projects based upon the book. 
http://wildgeeseguides.blogspot.com/2010/01/first-part-last.html

-In Home Economics, have students paint an empty eggshell to resemble a boy or a girl.  This is their child for the next 2 weeks.  They have to carry it everywhere; to class, sports, work, etc.  Require them to bring it class everyday so you can check the condition of the egg.  If it's broken, they lose points.  Students keep a daily diary of how carrying the egg affected their day.  At the end of the two weeks, discuss with students how they felt being responsible for the egg; did it hinder the life in anyway?  

-Non-Fiction books on teenage pregnancy.
     -Lindsay, Jeanne Warren. 2008. Teen Dads: Rights, Responsibilities, & Joys. ISBN 1932538860
     -     "               "                2004. Your Baby's First Year.  ISBN 1932538038
     -     "               "                2004. The Challenge of Toddlers. ISBN 1932538062
     -Goyer, Tricia. 2004. Life Interrupted: The Scoop on Being a Young Mom. ISBN 0310253160
     -Rodriguez, Gaby. 2013. The Pregnancy Project: A Memoir. ISBN 1442446234
     -Miller, John G. 2012. QBQ! The Question Behind the Question: Practicing Personal Responsibility in Work and in Life. ISBN 014305709X

-Fiction books on teenage pregnancy.
     -Oruska, Kaitlyn. 2013. The Consequences of Forever. Kindle ed.
     -Madonia, Kristen-Paige. 2013. Fingerprints of You. ISBN 1442429216
     -Williams, Lori Aurelia. 2006. Broken China. ISBN 1416916180
     -Nazzro, Alexa. 2013. The Pool Theory. ISBN 0991816137

Never Forgotten by Patricia C. McKissack and Illustrated by Leo and Diane Dillon

BIBLIOGRAPHY
McKissack, Patricia C. 2011. Never Forgotten. Illustrated by Leo and Diane Dillon. New York: Schwartz & Wade. ISBN 978-375-84384-6

SUMMARY
A young boy is stolen away from his home in West Africa to be a slave in America. His father and the Mother Elements - Wind, Fire, Water and Earth, are bereft after he is gone. A story all too familiar to the many thousands of people who had members of their family stolen during the African slave trade. This story-in-verse was written for all those that were taken and those that were left behind. 

CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Never Forgotten is an African-American story with its roots based in history and folktales. Widely acclaimed, it's won many awards and nominations including the 2012 Coretta Scott King Honor book, the 2012 Notable Books for a Global Society Award, the 2011 Booklist Children's Editor's Choice, and the NCSS/CBC Notable Children's Trade Books in the Field of Social Studies to name just a few.                                       

McKissack wrote Never Forgotten with African literature and music in mind.  Her poems contain haunting, lyrical verses which unabashedly tell of the horrors during the slave trade: "Hundreds, thousands stolen. We rarely speak of the Taken..."   When Musafa is born, the Mother Element, Wind speaks words that soon prove false when she says "We will dance / Through the / Tall grasses, / You and I, / Forever Free." 

The Dillon's used dramatic woodcut illustrations with thick, bold lines which lend gravity to the heavy, emotional topic.  Using bold colors for Musafa and the father, the Mother Elements and the deceased mother are represented using ethereal pale colors.  The villagers and father wear beautiful African clothes, and touchingly, when Musafa is shown working in a blacksmith's workshop, around his neck is a scarf, made from his African garb.  It's a beautiful portrayal of Musafa never forgetting where he came from. The Dillon's illustrations are, as usual, stunning and meaningful.   

Although this is a beautiful, well-written story, some children might find it too sad.  When the Mother Elements tell Musafa's father, Dinga, that his son is alive, he is able to celebrate the knowledge by telling his village "Though a slave, he lives!" Even a neighbor exclaims "Such a fantastic story! How can we believe him?" The reality is that most, if not all, suffered the pain of never knowing what happened to their loved ones.  So while the verse is beautiful and the illustrations stellar, I was left feeling sorrow for all the stories and people unknown. 

Recommended for 1st grade and up. 

REVIEW EXCERPTS
"Forceful and iconic, the Dillon's woodcut-style paintings use gentle colors and strong lines to telegraph scary sequences, but do not dwell on them...The willingness to turn the dark history of the past into literature takes not just talent but courage. McKissack has both." --Publishers Weekly - Starred Review

"The pictures demonstrate the miracle of superb book illustration: how something that lies flat on the page can convey such depth, texture, and feeling. This sad but powerful tale will not be easily accessible to many kids, but here’s hoping that there are a lot of patient and appreciative adults (teachers, parents, librarians) to introduce them to it." --School Library Journal 

"The dramatic, thickly outlined acrylic-and watercolor illustrations extend the story’s magical realism and intensify the anguish and grief in the words. Both words and images come together in a conclusion that brings hope, with the promise of freedom"--Booklist 

"Sounds of drums and song for each element (Fire is “Kiki Karum Kiki Karum Kiki Karum,” while Water is “Shum Da Da We Da Shum Da Da We Da,” for instance) emphasize the storyteller’s voice in the narrative, inviting listeners to participate and engage. Full-page and border paintings in acrylic and watercolor use strong black lines, almost like woodcut engravings, in deep browns, earth colors and subtle jewel tones against creamy backgrounds...A totally absorbing poetic celebration of loss and redemption."--Kirkus Reviews

“McKissak gives her legend-making genuine momentum as well as scope….Stories of the middle passage rarely focus on the pain of those left behind, and this is a creative yet poignant treatment of that grief.”--Bulletin of the Center for Children's Literature
In flowing poetry this modern legend fills in the gap of knowledge of slave descendants...The illustrations show humans in bright color outlined in black with the elements in softer colors swirling around behind. This lovely work of art will delight people of all ages. --Children's Literature 

CONNECTIONS
*For students who enjoyed the illustrations, here are more books illustrated by Leo and Diane Dillion.  
     - Rawlings, Marjorie, K. The Secret River. ISBN 1416911790
     - Hamilton, Virginia. The People Could Fly. ISBN 0679843361
     - Aardema, Verna. Why Mosquitoes Buzz in People's Ears: A West African Tale. ISBN 0140549056
     -Dillon, Leo and Dillon, Diane. Jazz on a Saturday Night. ISBN 0590478931

*For other books on slavery.
     -Kamma, Anne. If You Lived When There Was Slavery In America. ISBN 0439567068
     -Anderson, Laurie H. Chains. ISBN 1416905863
     -Fradin, Judith B. and Frandin, Dennis B. Stolen Into Slavery. ISBN 9781426309373
     -Hamilton, Virginia. Many Thousand Gone. ISBN 0679879366

*There are many words that students will need to review before reading the book.  Use these as vocabulary words: artisan, captives, abide, persuaded, forge, calabash, apprentice, countenance, ballad
defiance, ponder. 

*For Art class, have students make potato paintings similar to a woodcut by carving out a circle in the middle of the potato. Leaving a 1/4"rim for black paint, have students carve outside of the rim so that when students stamp the paper, they will only see an outline of a circle in black. Students can then fill in the white circle center with color. After they understand the concept. they can create other shapes as well. 

*This is a link to a Teacher's Resource of activities from Random House.  http://www.randomhouse.com/catalog/teachers_guides/9780375843846.pdf

Minty: A Story of Young Harriet Tubman by Alan Schroeder and illustrated by Jerry Pinkney.

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Schroeder, Alan. 1996. Minty: A Story of Young Harriet Tubman. Illustrated by Jerry Pinkney. New York: Dial Books for Young Readers.  ISBN 0-8037-1888-8

SUMMARY
Minty (as Harriet Tubman was known as a child) is an 8 year old slave on a plantation in Maryland during the 1820's. Although her parents warn her to obey the owners, Minty has a hard time accepting life as a slave and is often in trouble.  Knowing that she wants to run away, her father teaches her about the Drinking Gourd in the sky, how to swim and other skills she'll need to survive when she escapes to freedom. This is a touching story about the young Harriet Tubman, the most famous conductor of the Underground Railroad. 

CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Minty has acquired a slew of awards and recognitions including the 1997 Coretta Scott King Award for Illustration, the Christopher Award, an ALA Notable Book, an American Bookseller "Pick of the Lists," a Time Magazine Best Children's Book of the Year, and an IRA/CBC Children's Choice to name just a few. 

Minty is a fictional account of Harriet Tubman's childhood.  Although the events in Minty were created for narrative purposes, the basic facts are true: Minty (Harriet's childhood name) was considered a difficult slave and was often rebellious. The story reflects Tubman's independent spirit and guesses at her early determination to be free.  Schroeder shows the helplessness of a slave when Mrs. Brodas discovers Minty's beloved doll and burns it for Minty not obeying, or, when Mrs. Brodas tells her husband, "We'll sell her South.  They'll know what to do with her in Georgia." 

In the front of the book, Pinkney describes how the Banneker-Douglass Museum in Maryland offered authentic details about the plantations, dress, food and living conditions of the slaves and owners in Maryland during the nineteenth century.  The beautiful and realistic watercolors show the time, the place and the way of life during Tubman's childhood. The illustrations have a raw emotion about them; the anger of Mrs. Brodas when Minty spills a pitcher of cider, the sadness of Minty when she loses the courage to escape, and on the back cover, an adult Harriet Tubman looking resolute, yet sad.  Pinkney's paintings are powerful and add a sense of realism to the story. 

This story exposes what many African-American slaves must have felt during this time of oppression and prejudice. It gives the modern reader an idea of the courage it took to escape and the dangers Harriet Tubman went through to help free her people. For grades 2+. 


REVIEW EXCERPTS
"A fictional extrapolation of a few facts about Harriet Tubman's childhood...Pinkney's illustrations exhibit, characteristically, his refined draftsmanship; the complicated compositions convey psychological aspects of slavery...This exquisitely crafted book resonates well beyond its few pages. --Kirkus Reviews

"This fictionalized story dramatizes...daily life...for [Harriet Tubman] as a child. Schroeder's words are clear and strong. There's no gracious big house...no happy slave. Pinkney's realistic portraits are powerful...the dappled double-page landscapes connect the strong child hero with the might of the natural world...the blend of fact and fiction is occasionally problematic...but kids will be moved by the picture of secret childhood rebellion in someone who grew up to lead hundreds to freedom." --Booklist

"This beautifully illustrated and moving fictional story can be used to introduce Harriet Tubman and the injustice of slavery to young audiences...Pinkney's illustrations are outstanding...His paintings, done in pencil, colored-pencils, and watercolor, use light and shadow to great effect, and his depictions of Minty are...powerful and expressive...[The story] will hold listener's interest and may lead them to biographical material...however, with so many real-life incidents from Tubman's childhood to choose from, one has to wonder why Schroeder decided to create fictional ones".  --School Library Journal 

"...a cruel snapshot of life as a slave and the horrid circumstances that fueled the future Underground Railroad leader's passion and determination...Schroeder's choice of lively vignettes rather than a more traditional biography is a wise one.  With color and feeling he humanized a historic figure, coaxing readers to imagine or research the rest of the story. Pinkney's full-bodied watercolors evoke a strong sense of time and place. Laudably, Pinkney's scenes consistently depict young Minty's point of view, giving the harshness of her reality more resonance for readers...A firm stepping stone toward discussions of slavery and U.S. History. --Publishers Weekly


CONNECTIONS
-Books on the same topic: 
     *Time-Life Books. Harriet Tubman: A Woman of Courage. ISBN 0060576073
     *Sawyer, Kem K. Harriet Tubman. ISBN 0756658063
     *Weatherford, Carole B. Moses: When Harriet Tubman Led Her People to Freedom. ISBN 0786851759
     *Winter, Jeanette. Follow the Drinking Gourd. ISBN 0679819975
     *Hopkinson, Deborah. Sweet Clara and the Freedom Quilt. ISBN 0679874720

-Follow the Drinking Gourd Song
*In this YouTube video, Richie Havens sings "Following the Drinking Gourd" from the "Songs of the Civil War" Ken Burns CD. (3:44 minutes) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gBOP8t2hlFQ
*Another YouTube version of the song.  It may be more appropriate for younger children.  (2:44 minutes). http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pw6N_eTZP2U

-Quilts were used as a map for slaves.  This website contains the most popular quilt blocks used in the Underground Railroad Quilt Code. http://home2.fvcc.edu/~cgreig/final/blocks.html

-Class discussion questions: 
     *What 3 adjectives would you use to describe Harriet Tubman as a child?  As an adult?
     *Do you think you would be able to run away at a moment's notice and leave behind your parents, brothers, sisters, and your possessions? 
     *What would you have done differently than Minty?  

-National Geographic has an interactive website to follow in Harriet Tubman's path. 
http://education.nationalgeographic.com/education/multimedia/interactive/the-underground-railroad/?ar_a=1

-A 3rd grade student created a Google map showing Harriet Tubman's path.  Have students create their own Google map showing important stops in the Underground Railroad.  https://maps.google.com/maps/ms?vps=3&jsv=208a&hl=en&ie=UTF8&msa=33&msid=108353092840792292590.00044859a491542254e2b&abauth=4b847a2cZNJ0xNNKPLrINElSgC5VB6S5xnU

Possum Magic by Mem Fox

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Fox, Mem. 1983. Possum Magic. Illustrated by Julie Vivas. Orlando, FL: Harcourt Brace. ISBN 0152005722

SUMMARY 
Grandma Poss and Hush are possums that live in the Australian bush where Grandma does her bush magic. Her best magic is to turn Hush invisible from snakes and other animals. But when Hush decides she wants to see what she looks like, they must travel around Australia to find the human food that will turn her visible again. Go on an adventure with Hush and Grandma Poss as they explore Australia tasting minties, Vegemite, Anzac biscuits and other yummy Australian food. 

CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Known as the most popular Australian children's book, Possum Magic offers an insight into Australia through its food and animals. The language is bouncy and fun and makes for an excellent read aloud: "...you look wonderful, you precious possum!" The book teaches students about popular food and common animals found in Australia.  There's also some smart writing: through the text, students will be able to infer why Grandmas Poss made Hush invisible..."she was safe from snakes, which is why Grandma Poss made her invisible in the first place."  There is a color map in the back to allow students to see where Grandma Poss and Hush traveled on their food adventure. 

Even with the wonderful language, the star of the show are the illustrations.  Using graphite pencil and watercolors, Vivas illustrations are delicate and show off the nuances of animal fur, sparkly magic and delicious food.  She portrays the animals and food realistically, yet gently enough to be whimsical. Using graphic pencil, Viva's creates an invisible Hush by softly outlining Hush's fur.  Although all the pictures are beautiful, my favorite is the 2-page spread of Hush trying to retrieve her tail from underneath a koala; the detail and expression on the koala are just gorgeous. 

This review is based upon the 1983 copy, however in 2004 the book redesigned, the text reset and improved with subtle changes and the illustrations retouched and recolored so the images are closer to the original artwork.  A must have for school and library collections. 

REVIEW EXCERPTS

An international bestseller, Possum Magic casts two Australian bush possums in starring roles but also features wombats, dingoes, and emus, rendered endearing by Julie Vivas' soft-toned watercolors. In addition to introducing Australian animals, Fox takes her possums on an eating adventure in search of the Australian foods-Vegemite sandwiches, pavlovas, and lamingtons,,,The book provides a warm, wonderful first exploration of Australia! --Children's Literature

PreS-Gr 2 ...Although the characters, locales, and vocabulary are thoroughly Australian, Possum Magic has universal appeal. Fox chooses her words carefully ..Vivas uses a variety of techniques, including splatter painting and washes to create full- and double-page watercolor illustrations which complement the text and will entrance readers. A perfect choice for story-times  but also useful for curriculum enrichment, thanks to a simplified map and glossary.--School Library Journal

"Another treat from Mem Fox that is sure to be treasure.  The whimsical illustrations are a wonderful complement." --Children's Book Review Service

CONNECTIONS
-Anzac Day is April 25th.  They celebrate this day to honor those who have served in the military; our version of Veteran's Day.  Make some Anzac cookies at home and bring in for your students.  Talk about the ingredients and how much you needed to use to have enough for the class.  Did you have to double or triple the recipe? Lamingtons are also easy to make. 

-Have an International Food Day in your class.  Have students bring in one food item that is from another country.  If a student is from another country or a particular culture, have the student bring in food representing that country. 

-Before you read the story, show students the map in the back of the book.  Show them the names and locations of the cities they're going to hear about in the story.  

-Here are some class discussion questions. 

• What do you think this book is about? 
• Who are the two main characters?
• Can possums really do magic? 
• What was some of the magic that Grandma Poss did?
• Why did Grandma Poss make Hush invisible? 
• What sort of things could hush do because she was invisible? 
• Why was Hush sad when Grandma Poss couldn't find the right magic? 
• How did the possums travel around Australia? 
• Why did the possums eat the people food on Hush’s birthday?

-Other books with animals as the main story. 
     *Steig, William. Sylvester and the Magic Pebble. ISBN 0671662694
     *Henkes, Kevin. Chrysanthemum. ISBN 0688147321
     *Penn, Audrey.  The Kissing Hand. ISBN 1933718102
     *Wardlaw, Lee. Won Ton: A Cat Tale Told in Haiku. ISBN 0805089950

-Children's books about food. 
     *Saxton, Freymann. How Are You Peeling? ISBN 0439598419
     *Rosenthal, Amy Krouse. Little Pea. ISBN 081184658X
     *Stone Soup. (multiple versions). 
     *Barrett, Judi. Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs. ISBN 0689306474

-This website contains a variety of excellent links to activities from a variety of sources, including Time and Scholastic. http://www.mybookezzz.com/possum-magic-sequencing-activity/

-In 2004, an updated version of the book was issued. The Australian Library and Information Association created a "library activity notes' for the reissue.  Contains ideas on reading, recipes, songs, publicity and more.  http://archive.alia.org.au/liw/alw/2004/possum.magic.html
An example of a useful link is the "Possum mask" for a crafts activity. 
http://archive.alia.org.au/liw/alw/2004/possum.mask.pdf.  

Soldier Bear by Bibi Duman Tak

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Tak, Bibi Dumon. 2011. Soldier Bear. Translated by Philip Hopman.  Illustrated by Laura Watkinson. Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans Books for Young Readers. ISBN 978-0-8028-5375-2

SUMMARY
Soldier Bear is based on the true story of a Syrian brown bear rescued by a group of Polish soldiers stationed in Iran during WWII.   Trading the bear for a pen knife, money and a can of corned beef, the soldiers take the bear back to base where they name him Voytek and he becomes a private in the army.  Although the war is difficult, Voytek's escapades and antics charm all who meet him and allow everyone to forget about the war, even if it's for a little while. 

CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Winner of the 2012 Batchelder Award and named a 2012 USBBY Outstanding International book, Soldier Bear is a novel based upon the (mainly) real events of a bear and his Polish soldier friends during WWII.  Dutch author, Bibi Dumon Tak's writing is described in the back of the book as "blend[ing] literary technique with facts to produce stories that are both compelling and accurate." Although research states that the bear was actually rescued by a Polish refugee crossing the Ebruz Mountains and not Polish soldiers, Tak's literary embellishment doesn't take away from the theme of the story which is friendship and companionship between animals and humans. Set between the years 1939-1947, we learn about Voytek and  the Polish soldiers experiences as they move from Iran, through Iraq and Syria on their way to Palestine and Italy and then, finally, Scotland. Tak doesn't shy away from the horrors of war with one soldier reminiscing about life in Poland at the beginning of the war, stating "People lied and killed and in the end no one knew who was their enemy and who was their friend."  The Polish soldiers often talk about their loneliness and fear for their country which was invaded by Russia and Germany. Translated from Dutch to English by Laura Watkinson, the writing is simple and strong, yet on occasion slightly old-fashioned: "They were all so pleased to see one another."  

Tak explains the invasion of Poland in WWII in simple terms: "We thought you were our friends!" the Russians shouted at the Germans.  "Ha!" the Germans shouted back. "We're only friends with ourselves!" Tak's explanation is understandable and younger students can relate to the concept of friendship gone bad. Although Soldier Bear is a novel, many of the details within the story occurred, including Voytek charming American, Italian, and English soldiers throughout his travels, carrying live ammunition, being named a private in the army, catching a spy in the bathroom, smoking cigarettes and drinking beer.

Hopman's simple black and white illustrations add a touching glimpse into the bear's antics: Voytek putting his paws over his eyes when he gets into trouble or Voytek entertaining troops by doing a handstand on top of a crane. Hopman tenderly portrays the moment Voytek stands between two soldiers "like a father trying to separate his sons" when they get into a fight. 

The book contains photographs, a bibliography and an afterword, which offers additional information about Voytek.  Maps are included so students can follow along with the troops as they move across the Middle East and Europe. Not many books about WWII are written for younger children and Soldier Bear is a welcome addition for students who are interested in WWII or stories about friendships with animals.  For students 9+. 

REVIEW EXCERPTS
...Young readers will enjoy this wonderful story of a Syrian brown bear and his soldier family. Teachers will love sharing this story of WWII with students. The back of the book gives an accurate account of the bear and the 120 soldiers who loved him.--Children's Literature

...Despite its serious setting, most of the novel is lighthearted.... the story is thought-provoking, but not overwhelming. The unit is stationed in the Middle East, transporting supplies and soldiers, so it's a rather different perspective of World War II than most readers are used to. Black-and-white drawings appear throughout the book, which closes with photographs of the real Voytek and his friends. Kids are sure to fall in love with this bear while being gently introduced to war and being touched by the message of peace. --School Library Journal

“This is smoothly translated and engagingly illustrated with sketches and helpful maps. Funny, fresh, and 
heartwarming, it doesn’t ignore the horrors of war but concentrates on the joy of having an animal friend.”
 — Kirkus Reviews

“Hopman’s expressive grease-pencil illustrations add to the story’s accessibility, grounding the proceedings 
with charm.”  — Booklist

CONNECTIONS
*For similar books, 
-Paulin, Garry. 2008. Voytek the Soldier Bear. Garry Paulin.  ISBN 095582950X
-Morpurgo, Michael. 2010. War Horse. New York: Scholastic. ISBN 0439796644
-Worman, Charles G. 2011. Civil War Animal Heroes: Mascots, Pets and War Horses. Paducah, KT Schroeder.  ISBN 188924645X (Not a children's book, but students will enjoy the pictures and stories). 

*Students will enjoy this YouTube video about Voytek.  Start at 42 seconds and finish at 5:13.  
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mIg1pZgMGRk

*One of the reasons Voytek was so popular is that he helped the soldiers with homesickness and stress.  He made people laugh during a very difficult time.  Have a discussion with your students about their pets.  Do the pets help when they're sad?  Do they think it would be helpful for soldiers to have pets?

*Here's a teaching guide from the author's website.
http://www.eerdmans.com/Common/Redesign_PDF/9780802853752_discussionguide.pdf
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Eidi by Bodil Bredsdorff

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Bredsdorff, Bodil.  2009. Eidi. Translated by Kathryn Mahaffy. New York: Farrar Straus Giroux. ISBN 978-0-374-31267-1

SUMMARY
When's Eidi's mother, Foula, gives birth to a baby brother, Eidi decides it's time to make a life on her own. Leaving home, Eidi hopes she can help her friend, the shepard Rossan, with carding and spinning wool for the winter. When Rossan takes Eidi to the market town to sell the wool, his unexpected injury means that Eidi must take a job making shawls at a wealthy merchants home. There, she discovers a boy who needs her help and makes a decision that will change both of their lives.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Eidi is the second book in "The Children of Crow Cove Series." Originally published in Danish in 1993, it was translated into English by Kathryn Mahaffy and published in the US in 2009. It was a 2010 Batchelder Honor book and a 2010 USSBY Outstanding International Book. The front cover is pleasing to the eye using watercolors in soft tones of green and brown which describe the language as well; soft, simple and beautiful. Bredsdorff's writing contains vivid imagery and is descriptive; when an eagle cries out, a dog "...cocked one ear...without opening her eyes, as if she knew that it wasn't the kind of sound she had to attend to."  When describing the heath on the way to the market town, Eidi looks out upon the land and reflects that "Boulders jutted up like the backs of big gray animals resting on little green paws." We can consider the book realistic historical fiction, however, when an evil person or a bad event is about to occur, Eidi's ears signal her by hurting; the pain/evil motif is not necessary and throws the reader into disbelief. However, this is a minor complaint and the story has much to offer. 

The setting is an undetermined time or place, however, the descriptions of aprons over dresses, tasks like carding and spinning wool and walking days to get to town allow the reader to know the story is set in the past during a simpler time. The front matter contains a map which allows the reader to see the land is a peninsula, and along with the names of the characters and descriptions of the land, give the impression of Europe a few hundred years ago. Although there was no specific dialect, a cultural element used is when Eidi's mother asks her if she's making a "try-your-luck" or a "better-luck-next-time" shawl which allows people to know you are willing to be hired for sewing. When Eidi is confronted by her drunk stepfather, he doesn't recognize her and calls her a guttersnipe and wench. 

Students will appreciate the values in the book; a strong work ethic, kindness to another person and even that mean people can also have good qualities.  Bredsdorff's characters are interesting and leave us wanting to know more; there are hints that each person who has settled in Crow Cove are there after a traumatic event in their lives. The community in Crow Cove reassures young readers that life can still be lived happily after bad things happen. The reading order of the series starts with The Crow-Girl, then Eidi and filling out the series is Tink and Alek; two characters in Eidi which have their own interesting stories to tell. 

This book will be a hit with young girls between 10-14; especially those who love the Little House or Dear America series.  

REVIEW EXCERPTS
The time and place are quite vague; the author brings to life a simply functioning world similar to that found in fairy tales—a place that is both specific and universal. Lyrically told, the narrative provides apt descriptions of events and of the natural world. Readers easily decode the motivations and inner thoughts revealed in the actions and words of the characters who are vividly and quickly delineated but possess lively complexities. --School Library Journal 

“Like the previous book in the Children of Crow Cove series, this unassuming yet compelling story is notable for the simplicity and power of the storytelling, the clarity of description and characterization, and the humanity of the ideas at the novel’s heart.” -- Starred, Booklist

“As quiet as its predecessor, this novel shines when it explores the complexities of the human psyche; Eidi finds that even the most seemingly heartless may have redemptive qualities. Her quasi-mystic ability to "hear" truth, brought on by a head injury, mars the simplicity of the tale, keeping it from achieving the gem-like perfection of Crow-Girl. Still, an equally heartfelt story of love and belonging.” -- Kirkus Reviews

CONNECTIONS
For students who enjoyed this book, they may enjoy reading other books in this series and similar style books: 

• The Crow-Girl. 2004. New York: Farrar Straus Giroux. ISBN 9780374312473 (The first book in Bredsdorff's The Children of Crow Cove Series.)
• Wilder, Laura Ingalls. 2004. The Little House Collection. New York: HarperCollins. ISBN 9780060754280
• Kelly, Jacqueline. 2011. The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate. New York: Square Fish. ISBN 9780312659301
• Larson, Kirby. 2008. Hattie Big Sky. New York: Random House Children's Books. ISBN 9780385735957

- Eidi knows how to make many useful and household objects.  Have books on the following topics in the classroom so students can extend their learning - some examples are: knitting, sewing, quilting, spinning wool, candle making and buttons.  

- The Junior Library Guild has created a 28 page guide for teachers to use with students.  The guide is divided by chapters and include activities for student's including vocabulary, discussion questions, comprehension questions, as well as discussing literary term like setting, point-of-view.  Also contains suggestions for other reading. 

- Eidi is a 2010 Batchelder Honor book and a 2010 USSBY recommended book.  Both of these awards are for international books.   If students enjoy reading books by international  authors, have them look at the award websites to see if there are other books of interest. 

Batchelder:  http://www.ala.org/alsc/awardsgrants/bookmedia/batchelderaward/batchelderpast 

USSBY: http://www.usbby.org/list_oibl.html