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"Feathers" By: Jacqueline Woodson

Rating: 4/5
Grade Level: 5th Grade and above

I enjoyed reading the novel "Feathers". I love how Woodson incorporated controversial and relative issues into something as simple as a 6th grade classroom. When "Jesus- Boy", the only white student in an urban African American public school, arrives in Mrs. Johnson's sixth grade classroom he causes our narrator Frannie to search for hope in the religious overcast that he brings into her life. I think that this concept of hope would be meaningful to discuss in the context of the classroom. By asking my students where they look to to find hope we can indirectly address religion in a way that won't pressure students to give a specific answer. I also think this book helps demonstrate that individuals do not necessarily have to be religious to have a connection to something or something that will bring comfort in a time of struggle. I also think it would be interesting to address how it may be different being the only white student in an African American school in comparison to being the only African American student in an all white school. I think that by making these comparisons in a discussion setting students of different races and cultures will better understand one another and hopefully be able to put themselves in a new perspective and circumstance that perhaps they did not appreciate in the past. I also loved the references that this book made to deaf culture. Being an American Sign Language student myself I have learned so much about this community that I didn't really knew existed. I would love to incorporate deaf culture into my classroom and hopefully allow students to understand something that may not have been introduced to them in the past. There is an extraordinary gap between the hearing and the deaf community and if I can guide my students to understand a difference as extreme as being able to hear and being completely deaf than maybe they will be able to apply the daily struggle that deaf individuals have to other races and heritages that they may not have realized. I hope that by educating my students on the hardships that others have gone through it will hopefully lead them to becoming more accepting and patient individuals.

"The Giver" By: Lois Lowry

Rating: 4/5
Grade Level: 6th Grade and above

I think that "The Giver" addressed a lot of interesting concepts that I think would be beneficial to be introduced into a classroom. This book portrays a surreal society that many would consider "ideal"; the world that Jonas lives in is one without divorce, poverty, unemployment, inequality or injustice. Good manners and family values are core morals that this society revolves around. When Jonas is declared the position of "Receiver of Memory" he begins to realize the secrets that are embedded within the "perfection" of this society. I think that the concept of "sameness" that is exhibited throughout this novel is a very interesting one and would serve great benefit in the classroom. When Jonas realizes that he has inherited knowledge that removes him from the ignorance that the rest of the community exists in, he is perplexed with the decision to leave the community knowing that outside of this sheltered society is knowledge, color, music and love. I think it would be interesting to ask my students if they could be truly happy living in this society, and living in ignorance of the potential possibilities. I would then have them compare how they would feel being put in Jonas's position and how their perspectives would change once they were made aware of these new possibilities. I also think that the concept of "sameness" can be used to discuss individuality and if stereotypes and discrimination would really be nonexistent if we did all look the same. I think it is important to address the concepts of individuality and how it relates to difference in culture, race, heritage, etc. Hopefully, this will allow students to understand and accept one another in the classroom environment. While I cannot guarantee that this open minded status that I'm trying to portray in my students will be expressed outside of the classroom; I can however, enforce the ideas of acceptance and self expression in the classroom. I do not want my students to ever feel intimidated or insecure about expressing themselves uniquely in our environment for fear of ridicule or not being accepted. That is why I think "The Giver" would be a spectacular addition to any classroom. 

"The Worm Family" By: Tony Johnston 

Rating: 4/5
Grade Level: 2nd Grade and above
Illustrations By: Stacy Innerst

I really enjoyed reading "The Worm Family". This book is about a family of worms who is moving to a new place to live. They are proud to be worms however, not all of their new neighbors are accepting of their pride and some even throw things at them until they are forced to leave. Soon they decide they are going to stop running from unfriendly neighbors and show the world how glorious worm can be. I think that many students can relate to the message that is portrayed in this story. The worms think that they are glorious to just be themselves and even though their neighbors do not accept them for who they are. I think that the message of embracing yourself even when others do not accept you is important for elementary aged students to understand since at this age teasing and bullying becomes much more common in the classroom. I also think that the transformation the worms make as a family is inspiring when they finally stop running and embrace their individuality even at the risk of not being accepted in their new town. Also the worm family meets a new family that is unique in their own way and both families embrace each others differences and form a bond with one another. I would definitely use this book in my classroom in order to demonstrate uniqueness and acceptance of others. The transition the worms made will teach students the importance of confidence and believing in their own abilities no matter what others may think. I also really enjoy the illustrations and the literary language used in the story. The repetition of the worm's song will allow students to recognize the words and also get excited about the literature itself.

"I'm Not Bobby" By: Jules Feiffer

Rating: 2/5
Grade Level: 1st Grade and above
Illustrations By: Jules Feiffer

The book "I'm Not Bobby" is about a little boy who refuses to answer to his parents when they call his name. He mentally transforms himself into anything but himself so that he technically doesn't have to listen to his parents since he is "not Bobby". Bobby runs away and only returns home from "Mars" when he is hungry and even then he returns as a lion with Bobby's face so that they don't know he is a lion and then if his parents refuse to feed him dinner or let him watch TV he will eat them. I did not like the message that was portrayed to the readers; I think this book is suggesting that it is acceptable to disobey your parents in addition to other members of your family since Bobby continues to run even after his Mom, Dad, Uncle Bill, Cousin Frank, and Aunt Sally can't catch him. Bobby imagines that Mars will have every channel of TV that he could ever hope for, and only decides that home is acceptable when he becomes hungry. I think this book devalues family appreciation. I also think it is disrespectful when Bobby states that he will only return not as himself but as a lion; this suggests that he will only return if he does not have to listen to his parents since he is "not Bobby". He also states that he will only return if they will allow him to watch TV as much as he wants or else he will eat them. In this instance he is putting TV before his family and that he would rather not live as their son than be disciplined. If I did use this book in my classroom it would only to inspire imagination and the different ways that one can perceive themselves.

"Sylvester and the Magic Pebble" By: William Steig

Grade Level:
Ranking: 5/5
Illustrations By: William Steig

I loved the book "Sylvester and the Magic Pebble". The message was endearing and hopeful. When Sylvester finds a magic pebble that grants his every wish he can only imagine the endless possibilities that his life now holds however, when he turns himself into a rock with attempts of escaping a hungry lion his dreams shortly vanish. He is stuck as a rock for years until finally his parents find the magic pebble and wish for their Sylvester to return. I think that the message behind this book transitions from Sylvester's natural human materialism when he first finds the magic pebble into something much more. I was saddened when Sylvester was turned into a rock for so long and the hardship that was experienced by both him and his family broke my heart. This book allows the reader to connect with the main characters and feel their pain when they are distanced from their loved ones. I experienced great despair when Sylvester gave up hope of ever being reunited with his family. It was almost as if the hope I had throughout the entire story had vanished which made it even more emotional when Sylvester's parents found the pebble and wished that he returned to them. I have never felt more emotion from illustrations that displayed a donkey family becoming reunited after a long hardship. My favorite line of the entire book is the last line in the story which reads "Some day they might want to use it, but really, for now, what more could they wish for? They all had all that they wanted". I think that this line really allows students to appreciate what they have and that the best materials items in the world could never replace the love and compassion that is offered through the irreplaceable bonds of family. 

"The King's Commissioners" By: Aileen Friedman

Grade Level: 2nd Grade and above
Rating: 3/5
Illustrations By: Susan Guevara

I thought that "The King's Commissioners" used Math in a fun and interesting way to teach elementary students. The story is about a King with many Royal Commissioners that take care of all his problems for him. However, one day he decides that he needs to get organized and count all of the Royal Commissioners. Each of two Royal Advisers count the Royal Commissioners using different methods, and his daughter explains to him the methods used. I think that while this book uses good methods for grouping together large numbers I also think that some of the messages should not be portrayed as acceptable to young students. This book suggests that it is acceptable to distribute chores that you do not want to do yourself to others. While the King does choose to finally "organize" his commissioners this only consists of counting them rather than creating a system that allows him to contribute to his own responsibilities. The majority of the illustrations show the King just sitting on his thrown. This book promotes laziness to young children especially when the King suggests that since his daughter is so good at grouping the Commissioners that she be established the "Royal Commissioner Counter" and her response is that she would rather be a princess. This implies that she would rather have everything done for her by a Royal Commissioner than have any form of responsibility herself. Also there is no repercussions to the King for having others do his work for him even if they are the most simple tasks such as the "Miss- Matched Socks Commissioner". I think this book devalues the concept of hard work. If I did use this book in my classroom it would be used to have my students plan out their own schedules in order to organize their time better so that they are capable of completing all of their expected tasks successfully.

"Hazel Nutt Alien Hunter" By: David Elliott

Rating: 4/5
Illustrations: True Kelley
Grade Level: 3rd Grade and above

I really enjoyed reading "Hazel Nutt Alien Hunter". I think it was very friendly and welcoming to elementary students. This book reminded me of "The Magic School Bus" and makes each reading experience an adventure all its own. The plot around this book is based around Captain Nutt and his first mate who had two heads. The dynamic trio is suddenly attacked by a meatball shower and the Booby Prize (their spectacular spaceship) is forced to land on the planet Wutt which is fulled with Wutties. David Elliott's play on words makes the literature fun and exciting to read. Not only is this book a classic "Day in the life..." story but it also uses rhyme schemes and turns ordinary objects into exciting and different uses on the planet Wutt. I would definitely use this book in my classroom in order to demonstrate to my students the power of imagination and how it is possible to incorporate anything and everything into a story all their own. I also think that this book would inspire students to journal about their lives and to even put a creative spin on things in order to create their own fiction story. This book teaches a lot about writing itself and the illustrations incorporated are so different that I loved the interaction between all of the "Wutties", it seemed like each one was doing something different. Also the incorporation of the "Wuttie" language into the story could teach students to use creativity to give their own meaning to new words, and that when it comes to writing their options are limitless!

The Higher Power of Lucky By: Susan Patron

Age Level: 6th Grade and Above
 Rating: 5/5

I absolutely loved "The Higher Power of Lucky" especially the main character Lucky Trimble who warmed my heart and inspired me. I loved how Susan Patron was able to capture her ten year old language while still incorporating her mental diary as she moved past each experience. The conceptual way that Lucky reflects on her life and rather eccentric family is both heartbreaking and endearing. Through her constant growing maturity she is finding meaning and order in the hardships and chaotic events that seem to find their way into Lucky's life. I really enjoy how Lucky manages to uniquely fit into a town with a population of only 43. Lucky, who seems to be becoming more and more similar to her idol Charles Darwin, acknowledges every minuscule detail that impacts her life. The external forces that she absorbs are both emotional and spiritual and only help her to pay these connections with her environment forward in a positive way. I think that Lucky's personality alone would be enough reason to discuss this book in a classroom. However, I think that many controversial issues arise from this story that teachers should not shy away from. In general my view of controversial books is a positive one and I think that teachers who "play it safe" when it comes to controversy are doing their students an injustice. America's youth is the future of our society and if they understand these concepts before the influence of society draws their opinions for them, it is a possibility that they can grow to become more accepting and understanding individuals and leave judgment at the door. I want my classroom to establish a safe and accepting environment, and I never want my students to shy away from potentially uncomfortable questions. This book would be a good way to establish an organized and directed group discussion that addresses these questions in a way that is formal and professional to ensure that no one's opinions or ideas are unaccepted or laughed at. Informing students about these ideas will help guide them to create their own opinions, but still learn the quality and importance of acceptance of others.

Controversial Books

"Faithful Elephants, A True Story of Animals, People and War" By: Yukio Tsuchiya

Grade Level: 5th Grade and above
Ranking: 5/5
Illustrations: Ted Lewin

"Faithful Elephants, A True Story of Animals, People and War" was one of the most emotional books I have ever read. This story is about a zoo in Japan that is forced to kill all of their animals because of strict commands from the army. They feared that if enemy bombings hit the zoo then the wild and dangerous animals would be released into the community. I think that this book is very powerful and emotional; Yukio goes into amazing detail about the hardships that the animal trainers endured while putting down the creatures that they have connected with so deeply over the years. When the author describes how the elephants were still trying to do their tricks for the trainers even on their death beds completely broke my heart. While this book may be too emotional for younger elementary students I think that for older students it would be a good way to address serious issues through a concept that they would understand such as animals in a zoo. The sadness that is brought upon the animal trainers represents the friends and families of those who have loved ones at war. I think that stories like these allow students to appreciate their lives and to understand their emotions. Also this gives the teacher an opportunity to relate the hardships of war to something that the students can connect with.

"Tico and the Golden Wings" By: Leo Lionni

Grade Level: 2nd Grade and above
Ranking: 2/5
Illustrations: Leo Lionni

I enjoyed the message that was portrayed at the beginning of "Tico and the Golden Wings" when his friends accepted him even though Tico didn't have wings like the rest of the birds. However, once the Wishingbird gave Tico a new set of golden wings his friends wouldn't accept him because Tico wanted to be different. It is expressed that being different is not a good thing and that unless you fit into the crowd you will not be accepted by society. I think that this is not a positive message to portray to students, especially at an age where they are so subject to outside influence. And while it was generous that Tico did give away his golden wings to help out others it seems that the only reason he did is because underneath he had black wings just as his friends. This suggests that genuine generosity isn't common; also I think that this was only reinforced when Tico's friends only allowed him to join their society when his wings were black again. I think that if I did use this book in my classroom it would be as an example of how to not treat people and how individuality should be valued, and uniqueness is extraordinary.

"Moo Cow Kaboom" By: Thacher Hurd

Grade Level: First grade and above
Rating: 5/5
Illustrations By: Thacher Hurd

I really enjoyed reading "Moo Cow Kaboom". I think that this book would really get elementary students excited about the science fiction genre. This book is about how Moo Cow gets "cownapped" and is taken by Zork to the Intergalactic Space Rodeo. However, after this Earth beast is deemed too dangerous Moo Cow is sent back to Farmer George's farm. I think that this book is a perfect example of the broad range that is involved in science fiction. I think that if there is a student in your classroom who isn't particularly fond of reading or writing, this book would spark their imagination and open their eyes to new possibilities. This book personally inspired me to write my own story, and demonstrated how a book as exciting and adventurous as this one can stem from an idea as simple as a cow on a farm. I would love to use this book in my own classroom when discussing the science fiction genre. Most students don't understand what the term science fiction actually means, and I think that if they were more informed about the broad range of ideas this genre would be much more popular! I also think that this book suggests the importance of standing up for yourself. When Moo Cow doesn't respond to "Giddy Up" Zork proceeds to call him a "lazy, useless, uncooperative, unintelligent, Earthling Moo Cow!". This caused Moo Cow to "KABOOM" Zork all the way back to his alien farm. Also the language in this book is very fun to read and may inspire students to create and give meaning to their own words; which will hopefully encourage imagination and creativity in their writing. The illustrations in this book are as much fun as the story itself, and really suggests to students that when it comes to science fiction, anything goes! The use of dialogue bubble really accentuate the plot without directly telling what's going on; this allows the reader to make their own personal connections to the story.

"Moondogs" By: Daniel Kirk

Grade Level: Kindergarten and above
Rating 3/5
Illustrations By: Daniel Kirk

In the book "Moondogs" a young boy named Will wants to get a pet, but not just any pet he wants a Moondog. With only tools in his garage Will creates a rocket in order to travel to the moon in order to find the perfect pet! The language throughout this book has a poetic feel and is very enjoyable to read aloud. The context of the story is very simple but has much meaning behind the literacy. When Will is searching for a spectacular Moondog he is attacked by the man on the moon, and the Earth dog saves him! Will realizes that his perfect companion was traveling with him all along. This story suggests that students look for the extraordinary in what you may have originally perceived as ordinary. I think that this book would be very helpful in the classroom; it can force students to reevaluate their surroundings and what they may have previously taken for granted. This story can also teach students to appreciate their classmates for their individual qualities, and while they may not be the smartest student in class, or the best at math equations; every student is unique in their own way and brings something special into the classroom environment. This book also teaches students to support one another. Even though Max didn't want to settle for an ordinary Earth pet; his K9 companion was the one who came to his rescue.

"They'll Believe Me When I'm Gone" By: Amy Axelrod

Grade Level: 1st Grade and above
Rating: 4/5
Illustrations By: Jack E. Davis

I really enjoyed reading "They'll Believe Me When I'm Gone" because it represents the wild imagination of a young child. This story is about a young boy named Max and his fantasies about moving away and living on another planet with his new alien family. While he verbalizes his nearing departure they dismiss his "overactive imagination". I think that students could really connect to this book especially when Max describes all of the horrible things that he has to endure while living with his Earth family. I think that many students can relate to aggravating older siblings and parents who don't always understand. However, this book reassures the value of family when Max decides that he only wants to visit his alien family for two weeks rather than forever. The author demonstrates, through the language of the book, the strong connection that Max and his family really do have. I think that in the classroom this book could be used as an indirect form of venting for frustrated students. However, the concluding pages of the book reinforce family values and the concept of supporting the ones you love even if they do occasionally get under your skin. I think this would be a good book for a parent and child to read together. The parents in the beginning of the book are not portrayed as supportive and aren't very encouraging of Max's imaginative side however, as the book continues on Max and his parents make a connection that reinforces Max's decision to stay on Earth. 

"Cinderella" By: Amy Ehrlich

Grade Level: 4th Grade and above
Ranked 5/5
Illustrations: Susan Jeffers


I loved reading "Cinderella". It really brought me back to my childhood and I found myself re-reading this book at least three times. The images just jumped off the pages and the words flowed so smoothly. It's the classic story of rags to riches, but has such deep morals embedded throughout the story. Cinderella is a character that everyone can connect with at one point or another. She is so admirable and her ability to make the best out of a bad situation is endearing and admirable. Her spirit drives her nature, and it makes the reader so thrilled when she finally has her happy ending through all that she has overcome. Also the magic that is expressed throughout the pages makes the story so much fun to read. I love the idea that mice can be turned into horses and a pumpkin can be transformed into a magical carriage. I personally become frustrated when Cinderella's magic and happiness can only last until midnight however, it just makes the ending so much more rewarding for the reader since her dream has really come true. I also think that the most admirable part about Cinderella is that she is able to forgive her evil step sisters for all the pain and hardship that they have caused her and she even goes to the extent of giving them a room in the castle. This just implies the power of forgiveness and the importance of family. It is essential to support them through anything no matter what mistakes they have made in the past. I also think it is admirable that Cinderella is not afraid to be herself and when the prince comes looking for her; even though she is considered a poor "Cinderwench" she is proud of herself as an individual and no longer needs to hide behind the magic that her fairy godmother provides her with.

"Fairy Trails" By: Susan Meddleton Elya

Rating: 4/5
Grade Level: 1st Grade and above
Illustrated By: Mercedes McDonald

I was pleasantly surprised while reading "Fairy Trails". I thoroughly enjoyed Susan's incorporation of the classic fairy tales into one story. This story is about Miguel and Maria and the encounters they have on their way to their Aunt's house. On their way they run into the Hansel and Grettle witch, the big bad wolf, Snow White and the seven dwarfs, Cinderella, the three bears, and Humpty Dumpty. Also throughout the course of the book there are Spanish words included. I think that this adds an extra unexpected aspect to the story, and I was pleasantly surprised by this cultural edition. I really enjoyed how this book combines the classic American fairy tale culture with Spanish culture. I think that this book would be a good aspect in a classroom environment and demonstrate to students the coming together of multiple cultures through the use of literature. This book would also be a good transition from classic American tales into tales of others cultures or heritages. I think that the illustrations in the book are really unique; the illustrator is able to transform these classic images into something new that can be incorporated into Spanish heritage. The way these Spanish words are incorporated give suggestions to the reader on what they mean without directly explaining the connection. The language of this story is very appealing to auditory senses and the rhyme schemes keep the reader entertained and want to move forward in the story.