Adriana Hernandez LSSL 5360 – Dr. Perry October 9, 2015

Cleary, B., & Zelinsky, P. (1983). Dear Mr. Henshaw. New York: W. Morrow. plot theme A Beverly Cleary classic, Dear Mr. Henshaw has an engaging plot that is realistic from beginning to end. Leigh is in a new town without a friend in the world due to his parents’ divorce. His only outlets are his letters to, and from, his favorite author, Boyd Henshaw. The development of his relationship with Henshaw, as well as how he grapples with his new life, stays with you long after the book is over. The theme is also highly relatable, even 30 years later. Children of divorce are all over our schools; children without good friendships; children who spend a lot of time alone…Leigh, like a lot of children, is figuring out how to deal with all of that. His ups and downs have been relatable to many for generations now.

Draper, S. (2010). Out of my Mind. New York: Atheneum Books for Young Readers. character setting Melody, the main character in Out of my Mind is a great example of character in a novel. Her internal monologue often rings true as that of an average 10-year-old even though her physical appearance is not “average”. The development of her persona, both internal and external, is critical as well and makes for a very interesting, well- developed character. Much of the book takes place at Melody’s school, Spaulding Street Elementary. The elementary school setting is strong. School is a very relatable place for many young readers and Draper’s description of the classrooms, as well as what goes on inside them, was very realistic. The dynamics of the classroom after Melody’s addition were depicted in a way that was very true to life.

Lord, C. (2006). Rules. New York: Scholastic Press. theme gender Many children have to deal with something about their personal lives that makes them “different”. Catherine in Rules is no exception. Her brother, David, has autism. Cynthia Lord carefully but skillfully delivers a story that helps children to understand that being different is okay. This theme is vitally important as children grow up and meet more and more people who are not like them. And, one thing that links us all together are rules! Having a female main character is another perk of the story though her depiction can be a bit stereotypical at times. Catherine wants so desperately to be accepted by her new neighbor and she is very concerned about many of the things stereotypically ascribed to girls of a certain age – her clothing, make-up, boys, teenybopper magazines. To an adult her gender depiction may seem cliché, but to a young girl it might ring astoundedly true.

Urban, L. (2007). A Crooked Kind of Perfect. Orlando: Harcourt. plot setting With a funny and endearing plot, A Crooked Kind of Perfect introduces us to Zoe, a ten-year-old who dreams of being a famous pianist but instead her house bound dad buys her an accordion. Zoe tries to be sensitive to her dad, she’s missing time with her mom and she’s confused about why she has lost her best friend. She throws herself into the accordion and even makes a good friend along the way. The story feels fresh and different without being contrived. A large chunk of Perfect takes place at Zoe’s house – a strange place full of her dad’s diplomas for all of his Living Room University classes. Every day when she comes home, she walks into something new. Some times that is fun for her and other times, it is tedious. The setting is a big part of who Zoe is and helps us to learn so much more about her.

Pastis, S. (2013). Timmy Failure. Somerville, Mass.: Candlewick Press. style character Timmy Failure is filled to the brim with style – from the witty writing to the funny pictures to the clever chapter titles. Stephan Pastis does an amazing job of creating the character of Timmy and welcoming us into his insane little world. The drawings closely mimic those an actual child might create and I think that would be a big enticement for a child to pick up and read this book. The main character in this story is Timmy Failure, obviously, but there is a nice cast of supporting characters along the way including Total, Molly, Rollo, The Beast and his mom. The characters are truly unique and FUNNY! Honestly, when is the last time you read a novel with a polar bear as a main character? I think Timmy’s humor and charm are realistic and endearing and should make him a beloved character for years to come.

Paterson, K., & Diamond, D. (1977). Bridge to Terabithia. New York, NY: T.Y. Crowell. plot gender A book that has captivated children and adults for nearly 40 years, Terabithia has an imaginative, devastating plot that haunts the reader long after the book is done. Few books for young children deal with death and tragedy in such a way. The care Paterson takes with this topic and Jesse’s handling of it is well-written and realistic. Leslie’s life is treated with care and respect. The attributes given to each child are also unique – Jesse is artistic and soft-spoken; Leslie is outspoken, free and dynamic. It is exciting to read a book wherein the gender roles are definitely not stereotypical and in Terabithia that is definitely on display and serves to make the book even more engaging. Leslie’s adventurous spirit and captivating personality pull Jesse out of his mostly isolated existence and he is never the same.