Book Description

"The true stories I've written in this book are my living nightmares. My greatest hope is that the lessons the stories offer will help you make better choices than I did." Stanley "Tookie" Williams, cofounder of the notorious Crips gang, is a death-row inmate. But in his two decades of incarceration, Williams has also become a respected author and activist whose dedication to ending gang warfare in the lives of inner-city children has earned him a 2001 Nobel Peace Prize nomination. In this award-winning book--which has drawn praise from educators, government leaders, and families alike--Williams describes the brutal reality of being an inmate. He debunks myths of prisons as "gladiator schools" with blunt, riveting stories of overwhelming homesickness, the terror of solitary confinement, and the humiliation of strip-searches. Williams' words are a frank challenge to adolescent readers to educate themselves, make intelligent decisions, and above all, not to follow in his footsteps. ... Read more

Reviews (13)

prison life
The author has been imprisoned at San Quentin since 1981, on death row. He was sentenced to die for the murder of four committed during a convenience store robbery. As hard as it is to imagine caring about someone who has done such a thing, reading Tookie's book makes you feel sorry that his life has been wasted behind bars. You wonder what he could have done with his life if he had not gone down the road he chose.
This crime was not all Tookie did before he was arrested. He and a friend started the street gang the Crips, which has flourished and spread all over the world. What a legacy!
The purpose of Tookie's book was to dispel some of the street myths surrounding prison life. He had no fear of prison, which was considered a 'gladiator school' by kids on the streets. Once he was in the system he saw the reality and wanted to spread the truth.
Obviously Tookie is intelligent. The book is written in an easy-to-read format. He's aiming his message at young people who may not be the most sophisticated readers. The book is full of details that paint a realistic picture of all aspects of prison life. He also has a website where readers can communicate with him.
By the time you have finished this book you feel you know Tookie well and have shared his prison experiences. He has written other books, and reading this one makes you want to read more.

All myths about prison life is ended in this book.
In this book, Life In Prison, Stanley "Tookie" Williams cofounder of the crips gang and Death Row inmate for sixteen years, offers a testimony that ends all myths about prison life in this book. In straightforward, honest prose, Williams out about what it's really like in prison-- and challenges all young people to choose the right path.

Told in first person, this realistic picture of prison life is meant by the author to serve as a cautionary message for youngsters who may be misled into thinking, like he did, that prisons are so called 'gladiator', a cool and manly place to be. He does a magnificent job in describing his caged feelings, the danger, humiliations, and crime of being held in prison. Stanley Williams, convicted of four murders, does not deserve to be compared to Nelson Mandela, in my opinion for being arrested for almost no reason. While Williams says he's sorry for dropping out of school, and so on.. he never once said sorry about killing four people.

I feel that Life In Prison is an outstanding bibliography of the life of Stanley Williams. I also think this book's theme is that you should watch who you hang around, and always think about what you're doing and where it could lead you to in the near future. Read Life In Prison to find out what happens on the other side of the prison wallsnd how inmates are really treated, or if you just want to learn more about The United States Justice System, Juvenile System, Law and Crime, 9-12 Sociology then this is the book for you.

The strengths which this book possesses is that it's very descriptive and really tells how he feels in a formal way. The one thing that I have against this book is that it only tells one side of the story. the author, Stanley Williams, also needs to further consider the age recommendations for this book. I think that it should be 12 and up.

So ask for this book and look for it in your local library. I still want to know how it is to live in prison for the rest of your life, don't you?

Tyler Cook, Grade 6 newburg Middle School

WOW
I never read the books or heard of Stan Tookie Williams, he was already in prison about time I was born. So I had no idea what his life was about till I saw the movie. I got an understanding who he was and what he was about. I really wish I could turn back the hands of time for him so he could get a second chance. Then I realize he is getting a second chance. By getting his stories out there and his movie he's changing someone life from alife of crime. And I'm glad he turned his life around.

Wow
I'm sitting here watching this movie, and wow...it is amazing. I have not read the book, nor have I ever heard of him. THis story is truly amazing. You do get to a point where you feel sorry for him. I hate to say that, but it is true. I'm ordering the book right now... I bet it will be better than the movie.

Seen The Movie
I haven't read the book, but I am going to search the nearest store for it. Even though it's said "Tookie" may have killed 4 people, his movie, played by Jamie Fox, touched my heart to believe Stanley is trying or has already changed His life to pattern His ways as a Man of God. I have and always will follow the path of God as so will my Mother, who is a pastor and has been for 17 years. I strongly believe Stanley has tried to make a change in His life and is truely sorry for ALL the wrong He has done over the years of His youth. I know of several youth at the time, now going older in prison, started out similar to the way Stanley started His life of hate against not having a father, drugs, and fighting. ... Read more

Book Description

Today everyone is talking about peace. But how do you explain this abstract conceptto young children? Todd Parr is here to help. Like his bestselling title Itís Okay to be Different, The Peace Book gives parents and teachers a valuable tool in talking about a challenging subject. Toddís bright, child-friendly pictures and simple, inspiring text tell kids just what they need to know:Timeless and universal, this primer about peace belongs in every home and classroom all over the world. ... Read more

Book Description

Featuring an extra-sturdy library binding!

Everybody knows that spies wear white dinner jackets, drive sports cars, like their drinks shaken not stirred, and carry electric saws disguised as watches. Or do they? Certainly, some real spies are sophisticated members of the diplomatic service, but most are ordinary people from all walks of life. Spy is a journey through the history of espionage, from biblical spies who helped bring down the walls of Jericho to today's technological intrusions on the internet. Real-life spying equipment and gadgets are as amazing as those designed by Q for James Bond. Eyewitness Spy shows how, after the Cold War, and despite the new spirit of international cooperation, there is still a place for the spy in the modern world. Written by Richard Platt, author of the best-selling Cross-sections! Man-of-War and Eyewitness Pirate, Spy is a unique introduction to the dangerous lives of those who exist in the shadowy world of espionage. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

The best spy book its got cool gadgets and thats what counts
This was a excellent book and I would like to see more good stuff like this ... Read more

Amazon.com

"I find myself moving like a knife, carving my way around people,cutting myself out of their picture and leaving nothing of myself behind but ahole." A gaping hole of misery is what popular young adult author Jack Gantosremembers when he thinks back to 1972, "the bleakest year of my life." Just 20years old, Gantos was in a medium security prison for his participation in aget-rich-quick drug scam. Scared silly by the violence he saw around him daily,Gantos's only lifeline was a battered copy of The Brothers Karamazov,which he painstakingly turned into an impromptu journal by scratching his ownthoughts into the tiny spaces between the lines. There, he recorded both hisfears and his dream of someday writing a book of his own. Before prison, Gantoshad penned a scattered myriad of journals, but had never been able to pull themtogether into a cohesive narrative. It was during his time behind bars that hefound himself growing into a focused, diligent writer who eschewed drugs for thebigger high of watching his words fill the hole once and for all.

Gantos, best known for his award-winning Joey Pigza titles, mines darkermaterial here that is as deeply compelling as his lighter fare. Using short,meaty sentences, Gantos manages to write in a way that dismisses the dubious"romance" of prison, drugs, and "life on the edge" without ever soundingdidactic or heavy-handed. Older teens will appreciate his candor and sheerwillingness to give them the straight story. Vigorously recommended. (Ages 13and older) --Jennifer Hubert ... Read more

Reviews (18)

Great autobiography
Jack "Joey Pigza" Gantos writes an autobiography centering on how he became a writer. However, this well written chronicle is not a dissertation on "How to Cook Roast Pig" writer's style. Instead this is a powerfully honest report of why Mr. Gantos chose a life of crime to escape his homeland and how he survived his twentieth year of being caught and incarcerated for smuggling drugs. This harrowing period led Mr. Gantos to concentrate on writing.

This talented author provides his audience with a triumphant biography that his myriad of fans will enjoy. Additionally, anyone who relishes a true life account filled with downfall and deliverance will enjoy Mr. Gantos' message that writing not only saved, but filled the "HOLE IN MY LIFE".

Harriet Klausner

People Can Change
This is one great book. It is about Jack Gantos and the summer of 1972, the worst year of his life. It begins with Jack leaving his family in Puerto Rico during his senior year to finish high school back in Florida. He is eventually kicked out of the place that he was staying in and lives the remainder of his senior year of high school in a motel. Soon after, he rejoins his family on the island of St. Croix, where he really gets started on drugs and makes the worst decision of his life.

He agrees to smuggle 2000 pounds of hash from St. Croix to New York City on a small yacht with two other men. Everything goes fine until they begin to sell it and they are busted. Jack is sentenced to six years in prison and he calls it the best thing that ever happened to him. While in prison, he writes his thoughts in between the spaces of a book, and realizes his need to become a writer and share his wonderful thoughts with the world. This is a gripping novel that could make anyone avoid the use or selling of drugs. It shows that anybody, no matter how bad they have become, can change, as Jack has. I recomend this book for any high school age or above reader. You need to be very mature to handle this book, as there is some graphic scenes and profane language.

People Can Change
Hole in my Life is author Jack Gantos' autoboigraphy, and is a gripping novel that i think is very excellent. Jack's family moves to Puerto Rico during his senior year of high school, but after spending some time there, he decides to return to Florida and graduate. His constant binge drinking forces the family he was staying with to kick him out, so he spends the remainder of his senior year in a hotel. He is a reaslly good writer, but never tries to write all his thoughts down. After he graduates, he decides to wait on college and chooses to join his family in st. Croix, where they were now moved to. There he makes the worst decision of his life.

He agrees to, with two other men, smuggle 2,000 pounds of hash from St. Croix to New York City in a small yacht. Everything goes fine until they are busted when they begin selling it around the city. Jack is sentenced to six years in prison. While in prison, he writes his thoughts in between the spaces of a book, and around the margins. He fully realizes his need to become a writer and shoughts his thoughts with others. Hole in my Life is an awesome book for mature readers who can handle it, because there are a few graphic secenes and a lot of profane language. I think this book would keep anybody from buying or selling drugs, and it really shows that people can change, no matter how bad they have become.

Library student opinion
In reading the accompanying reviews I noticed that dbragg from NJ had given only one star, yet had given a highly favorable review. I believe he gave the one star by accident chosing incorrectly from the drop down menu.

I dreaded this book-on-tape based on the mug shots of Jack on the cover and the fact that it was required reading in a graduate course I'm taking. Prison life is a subject I am repelled by.

I listened to this book on tape with Jack Gantos reading. I was immediately drawn in by the quality of writing, the sensitivity of the teen Jack, and by the vulnerability, aimlessness, and contradictory self-initiative Jack demonstrates in his finishing high school with no family nearby, while formulating more clearly his desire to write and go to college.

Then Jack is sidetracked, in a way that any teen can be, into casual drug use. Further trapped by financial lack on an island he can't easily leave, with the goal of college writing programs he knows he can't afford he chooses an "easy" way out.

This story is effective because we have all been teens, all been vulnerable (as Jack so endearingly writes), and most have made, or know those who have made, decisions that have had dire consequences.

What made me love this book was Jack himself. I literally had to remove the tape from the car, pop it into the cassette at home and listen to the end, I couldn't leave the story alone.

Now that I know he survived the experience and has been wildly successful with his children's books I would love to see more autobiographical works by Jack. Encore! Encore! And thank you!

Critical issues in literature
This book explores the way that Jack Gantos got into writing, and how he turned from being a criminal to being famous children's author. The book starts out with Jack in jail and him telling us he loved reading he started writing a book. Then it discovers why he was in jail because he was smuggling hash up the coast. He turns himself in, in New York after contacting a lawyer. The book tells how he turns his life around and gets another chance at life. There were three main elements that I liked about this book, first the drama was great, second Jack Gantos really describes the scenes really well, lastly he really turns himself around in the book.

The drama was great, you couldn't read a chapter with out something cool happening. I mean first chapter he is talking about why he is in jail and how he likes jail. Next is how he got into the crime business. The last chapter is about what he did after he got released from jail and how he got into writing children's books.

Jack Gantos really describes the scenes well. He uses vivid detail and he spends whole chapters just describing his yellow cell. Jack says, "the color of that yellow cell got to me. It was a bright, smiling yellow that buzzed like a summer day. There was no hiding from that color. Like me, that yellow room had its ups and downs as the day wore on."(154) He spends a lot of time sharing his experience with you. People really get a sense of where he is coming from.

In the beginning of the book, Jack Gantos is like 17 and he is in jail and he is telling why he is in jail. And then it like flash backs to how he got there. Jack had smuggled hundreds of pounds of hash up the coast. All through out the trip Jack is sort of second guessing himself. Then when he goes to prison he sort of wants to get out of prison and he comes up with this ingenious way to get out. He decides he will go to college and after he is granted parole he would run to Canada after he got accepted though he changes he decides that it is not realistic. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Excellent reference and resource for teachers!
A sales rep gave me a copy of this book at a summer teacher workshop last year and I will not give this book up for anything!It has been a very valuable and useful tool for me to reference on countless occasions this past school year. The book has great illustrations, tables and an almanac. The charts are colorful and easy to read. I highly recommend this book for any teacher in the intermediate grades. It will not only help you keep your lessons fresh and make your planning time easier, it will also enable you to be an "expert" in mathematics in just a quick glance. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Learning about Children's Rights to Create Respect for All
In 1989, the United Nations adopted 54 principles in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. If you are like me, you are probably unaware of what these rights are. This beautifully illustrated book captures almost a third of the rights in a way that will help your child expand her or his awareness of the problems that other children face. In the process, you can help your child to learn how to become an effective, caring person.

In the United States, each sale will generate a donation of $1.50 for the U.S. Fund for UNICEF.

Archbishop Desmond Tutu writes in his foreword about the purpose of the book which is " . . . to create a new kind of society . . . where children's rights are respected and protected." He cites many of the horrors we have all seen about children, including the napalmed little girl in Viet Nam whose photographic image will always haunt our dreams.

What are some of these rights? Here are a few:

" . . . [A]lways do your best for us whenever we are in your care." Right Number 3

"All children hould be allowed to live and grow . . . until . . . we can decide things for ourselves." Right Number 6

"Every one of us shall have a name and a land of our own." Right Number 7

"Keep our families together . . . [or] look after us and love us just the same." Right Number 9

"Allow us to tell you what we are thinking or feeling." Right Number 13

"No one on Earth has the right to hurt us . . . ." Right Number 19

"If we are disabled . . . treasure us especially and give us . . . care." Right Number 23

"Teach us all to read and write . . . ." Rights Number 28 and 29

"Allow us to say our prayers in our own words . . . ." Right Number 30

"In times of war . . . shelter us and protect us from all harm." Right Number 38

While you may not agree with each nuance of the wording, the book provides the opportunity for your youngster to discover that other children face fundamental challenges. That can lead to a natural inquiry into what can be done to help. You can discuss this in your own way, but you may find it valuable to help your child know what his or her choices are. These could include helping other children in your own community who need care, learning to be a good parent, and raising money to share with less fortunate children wherever they live.

Archbishop Tutu's comments are more appropriate for adults than for children, so you will probably want to wait to discuss what he has to say until your child is of an appropriate maturity to know more about the horrors of when children's rights are violated. The reading level for that material is beyond young children, so you are unlikely to have your child reading and comprehending this material before age 7. It is neutrally written, but will probably generate pointed questions.

In a way, it is valuable to you in being able to create an opportunity to provide reassurance for your own child that she or he is safe and loved. Many children have vague fears in these areas that they are reluctant to raise with adults.

No review of this book would be complete without mentioning the many beautiful two-page illustrations in the book. These were done in many different styles, and create a bright, optimistic setting for the principles described here. Each page has very few words, just a few more than I am permitted to quote in this review. Excluding Archbishop Tutu's comments, the whole book probably has no more than 450 words. So your child will be spending time with the illustrations as much as with the words.

When your child sees something that is harmful to children happening, encourage her or him to discuss it with you. Then channel that discussion into thoughts about what appropriate actions are from an adult and a child. Each of us has our own ideas in the area, and these occasions can become opportunities for you and your child to learn together in loving companionship.

May the spirits of respect and caring for one another grow ever stronger amongst all humanity! ... Read more

Book Description

The kidnapping and murder of Emmett Till is famous as a catalyst for the Civil Rights Movement. Emmett Till, a fourteen-year-old Black teenager from Chicago, was visiting family in a small town in Mississippi during the summer of 1955. Likely showing off to friends, Emmett allegedly whistled at a white woman. Three days later his brutally beaten body was found floating in the Tallahatchie River. The extreme violence of the crime put a national spotlight on the Jim Crow ways of the South, and many Americans-Black and white-were further outraged at the speedy trial of the white murderers.Although the two white men were tried and acquitted by an all-white jury, they later bragged publicly about the crime. It was a galvanizing moment for Black leaders and ordinary citizens, including such activists as Rosa Parks.In clear, vivid detail Chris Crowe investigates the before-and-aftermath of the crime, as well as the dramatic court trial, and places it into the context of the nascent Civil Rights Movement.

With lively narrative and abundantly illustrated with forty fascinating contemporaneous photographs, this impressive work of nonfiction brings fresh insight to the case in a manner that will be accessible and eye-opening for teenagers and adults alike. ... Read more

Book Description

Teens often hear about other teens who get into trouble with the law. But they’re seldom asked what they think should happen next and why. A unique introduction to the juvenile justice system, THEY BROKE THE LAW—YOU BE THE JUDGE invites teens to preside over a variety of real-life cases. They meet Adam, who makes a threat in school; Erica, who assaults another student and uses marijuana; and more young people who commit crimes and are caught. Like a judge, readers learn each teen’s background, the relevant facts, and the sentencing options available. After deciding on a sentence, they find out what really happened—and where each offender is today. Along the way, readers learn Judge Jacobs’s concerns about each case, reflect on probing questions, and discover that they can’t jump to conclusions. Teens (and teachers) who want more can visit the Free Spirit Web site for role-playing ideas and scenarios related to the stories, which are available as free downloads. ! Thought-provoking and eye-opening, this book is for all teens who want to know more about the juvenile justice system and the laws that pertain to them and their peers. ... Read more

Book Description

The New York Public Library
AMAZING U.S. Geography

Follow a chinook over the Rocky Mountains. Trace the course of the Mississippi River from Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico. Discover where gold is mined and fish are farmed in the United States. Explore our fascinating nation from Alabama to Wyoming, and find answers to all your questions about U.S. geography...

Where is the highest waterfall in the United States?See page 33.
What is a sand sea?See page 40.
Why does California have so many earthquakes?See page 41.
Why are people from new England called Yankees?See page 69.
How many U.S. presidents were born in Ohio? See page 89.
Where did the Santa Fe Trail begin?See page 96.
How large is mammoth Cave in Kentucky?See page 108.
How hot are the Hot Springs in Arkansas?See page 116.

Also in The New York Public Library Answer Books series:

Incredible Earth
Amazing Space
Amazing African American History
Amazing Hispanic American History
Amazing Women in American History
Amazing Mythology
Amazing Explorers
Amazing Scientists
... Read more

Reviews (1)

Great for children
Here's a way to get the young ones in your family interested in history."The Bill of Rights (Cornerstones of Freedom)" is an introductory 32-page book that discusses the first ten amendments to the constitution and the rights which they are intended to protect and touches on Miranda rights, written in a language that children understand. ... Read more

Book Description

New Look! Relaunched with new jackets and 8 pages of new text!

Here is a spectacular and informative guide to the dangerous and adventurous life of piracy, privateering, and buccaneering. Superb, full color photographs of weapons, ships, flags, maps, and treasure offer a unique and revealing "eyewitness" view of pirate life on the high seas.See a pirate's cutlass and pistols, a letter of marquee - the pirate's license, a hoard of pirate treasure, a real pirate costume and the many different kinds of Jolly Roger. Learn how pirates attacked a Spanish treasure ship, why European kings and queens encouraged piracy, which Caribbean islands were pirate hideouts, what pirate ate at sea and why women pirates disguised themselves as men. Discover what kinds of ship the pirates sailed in, how governments tried to stamp out piracy and why skillful navigation was so important to pirates, and much, much more! ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Shiver me timbers, this book be scurvylicious!!
DK eyewitness books are some of the greatest non-fiction books around. The distinctive white background and high-quality photography gives this book an edge over any other pirate picture book. And -- these pictures are real! They're beautiful photos of historically piratey things, accompanied by informative captions and text.

Learn about Anne Bonny, a fearsome female pirate, peruse the pictures of pirate treasure, from Spanish doubloons to richly ornamented crosses. Compare the different pirate flags, and learn about who made each one. Check out the different types of ships, authentic pirate clothes and weapons, and a storehouse of other REAL pirate information.

If you know someone (young or old) who is fascinated by all things pirate, then you must introduce them to this book! It's a visual crash course in pirateness, and it's excellent!

So much stuff!
This book gives lots of fascinating information about the weapons and tactics pirates used. The information is divided into small fact capsules with illustrations, which keeps it from ever being boring or overwhelming. And there's so much on a page that the book's worth re-reading several times, in case of something missed or forgotten. A gotta-have for the piratically-minded!

Good book
This is a very good book with lots of facts about anything that has to do with piracy. If you are inturested in pirates, get it. It is well worth the money.

Review of "Pirate"
While this series is generally aimed at readers of a younger age, these magnificently illustrated books are fascinating for adults as well. "Pirate" is no exception. It is a gloriously readable book with profuse illustrations covering the history of piracy from ancient Greece to the 1800's. Dozens of captioned pictures and paragraphs of text make this a great book for browsing through when you just don't feel like serious reading. The book itself is nothing like a children's book. They could market this as an adult book without changing a thing ... Read more

Book Description

This easy-to-understand book tells why and how the Constitution of the United States was created. "Simple, attractive, informative....The most accessible history of the Constitution to date."--School Library Journal. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Can't teach the Constitution without it!
Maestro reviews the reasons for the Constitution, but fails to mention the Articles of Confederation. The text includes the Virginia, New Jersey, and Connecticut Plans. The book can easily be read as an introduction to the Constitution in one class period. Students could complete a drawing or group of drawings on a picture web to narrate the important details from the story.

Excellent!
I came across one book by Betsy Maestro "The Discovery of the Americas" and I loved it. The text is simple and the illustrations are great. It is historically accurate as well, a must in my checklist. I didn't realize she also wrote the historical series "You Wouldn't Want to..." They are my favorite!! I recommend all of her books, especially for teachers.

Great Review of Constitution!
This book is great for Middle School Students or even High School Students who want to review the events leading to the Constitution. I am a Middle School Teacher and plan on using the book to review my lessons with my students. Next year I plan on using it to introduce the topic! ... Read more

Amazon.com

In 1987, a skeleton was turned up near a Boy Scout camp in Missouri. A forensic anthropologist was brought and, using clues from the skeleton and some decaying clothes found nearby, determined that the victim was a young Asian woman. From there, police where able to determine the identity first of the victim and then of her killer. Using the Missouri case as a jumping-off point, The Bone Detectives provides an introduction for young readers to the science of forensics. Written for curious readers who are approaching adolescence, this book is sure to appeal to the nearly universal interest that age group exhibits for the macabre and the horrible. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

A good place to start
I had the chance to work under Dr. Michael Charney for 5 years before his death. Dr. Charney focused heavily on education and teaching people. That is what this book does. When this book came out he gave me a hard time for buying a copy because it was a "kid's book". All of that aside, the book gives a basic introduction to forensic anthropology on a level that explains it to the reader. It covers the case from start to finish as well as touching on the other aspects of forensic investigation such as forensic entomology and facial reconstruction. So if you have a child that is wanting to learn more about the field or you are looking for a good place to start learning, this is the book to get.

"The Bone Detectives" for the interested 11 year old
Okay, this book was so absolutely basic that I could have written it. I was extremely disappointed with how much I didn't learn from this book. It is 45 pages long, so if you're expecting a good, interesting weekend read--this is not it. There weren't any detailed case studies. There weren't any crime scene pictures. Just basic info on fingerprinting and skull re-construction and a little bit of this-and-that. Extremely basic. Recommended for the interested 11 year old, but not for anyone who wants to really learn the nitty-gritty of Forensic Anthropology.

Great for forensic science fans.
If you like anthropology or forensic science you will love this book. It tells of forensic anthropology, along with several other forensic techniques. It also explains about forensic archeology, and how past mysteries are being solved using forensics.

An exceptional book for exceptional children
The Bone Detectives is a compelling book for young readers. While the subject matter may seem out-of-the-ordinary and even macabre to many adults, pre-teens and teenagers seem facinated with the science and technology involved in solving murder cases. The book can also serve as a way to open a dialogue about the harsh realities bombarding our children from televison, film, and the evening news.
If you know a bright child with an interest in science or police work, or if you just want to foster an interest,this book is a good start. ... Read more

Book Description

"The Monkey Box" is a story that goes back to the 1800's. It starts with Art Rodriguez's great grandparents. Art's great great grandfather was a priest in Spain. He and his family were of royal decent, which made them dukes. The priest had an affair with a young woman. In time she became pregnant. At childbirth the young lady died. Then is when it became public knowledge that the priest was the father of baby Lydia. The church wanted to send him to the Vatican to be excommunicated. The family was extremely embarrassed and disgraced. The family made him a deal. They told him if he were to leave the country with baby Lydia, they would give him his portion of his inheritance and all his documents to prove his family's lineage. He agreed. The priest and his daughter boarded a ship and landed in Vera Cruz, Mexico. There he made his way to Chiapas, Mexico. He found a friend of the family who was a doctor. He asked his friend if he and his family would care for baby Lydia and make sure she received an education. In return the priest would leave him enough money to compensate him for taking care of her needs. In addiction he would leave money in advance to pay for all the education she would need. The priest said he would leave Lydia's portion of her inheritance in Mexico City. When Lydia became of age, she would receive all that was due to her. The priest said he would return periodically to see Lydia. However, once he left he never returned. No one ever heard from him again. It was not known if he was killed or went back to Spain.When Lydia was 16 years old, there was a young man who was 26 years old from the state of Senora, Mexico, whom she fell in love with. Soon they eloped. This story goes into their relationship and the problems they encountered with the doctor and his family. The "Monkey Box" goes through their life, their Son's life, whose painting is on the cover of the book, then it ends in San Jose, California with the father and mother of Art Rodriguez.When Chico and Lydia were married, Chico went out to the jungle and obtained wood that kept is colors for years. He constructed a box with beautiful monkeys carved all over the outside of the box. That is where the family's documents were kept through the years. You will enjoy this story. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

East Side Dreams
Voice of Youth Advocates Magazine October 2002 VOYA
Growing up in San Jose, California, Arturo Rodriguez and his brothers and sister endured an abusive father, their parents' unhappy marriage, and their father's absence after he returned to Mexico. Rodriguez coped as best he could, but his drinking and drug use, in the wrong place at the wrong times led to his incarceration in California's prison system for young offenders. Against all odds, he put his past behind him, married and had a family, and worked hard to overcome injustices and start a successful business. After his retirement Rodriguez began writing about his life and his family. This book is sequel to East Side Dreams (Dream House, 2001, published in Spanish as Sueños del Lado Este. In this second autobiographical book, he writes about childhood pranks and misdeeds, his mother's near fatal illness, his parent's divorce, the birth of his first child, and how his parents even eventually became friends.
The writing here is unpolished but sincere in true, and the reminiscences and descriptions are vivid and true to life. Neither how he grew to understand his father and other relatives whom he loved despite their flaws. His message for young readers is clear. It is possible to survived and overcome injustices and hardships. Rodriguez maintains a Web site at www EastSideDreams. com and invites readers to visit, view his picture alum, and perhaps send him an e-message. He will answer.-Sherry York Voice of Youth Advocates Magazine

East Side Dreams
The Midwest Book Review. May 7, 2002
East Side Dreams by Art Rodriguez is full of energy and the struggles that the author himself endured while growing up on the east side of San Jose, California in 1966.
I enjoyed reading this inspirational novel derived from the memories of a teenager who is now a mature and successful businessman.
East Side Dreams has been translated into Spanish to reach the Spanish speaking population in the United States.
As I read the troubling times of Art Rodriguez I couldn't relate to many of his predicaments, but I certainly felt compassion toward him and thanked God for my "normal" life. Mr. Rodriguez touches your heart as you read his passionate book of self-taught lessons.
As you read East Side Dreams, which captures the hopelessness of growing up with an unpleasant childhood, keep in mind that this life drove the author to his true passion-writing!
The author, Art Rodriguez has been honored by the New York Library System to be on the "2001 Books for Teenage List" for his book East Side Dreams. He was also given "The Mariposa Award-Best First Book" at the Latino Literary Hall of fame for this same book. Bravo! I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and encourage young readers to read it, as there are plenty to learn from this book. It will bring tears to your eyes.

James A. Cox
Editor-in -Chief
The Midwest Book Review.

Highly recommended reading for young adults
East Side Dreams is the debut book and memoir Art Rodriguez, of a Latino American who survived growing up on the rough side, at odds with a dictatorial father, and once an inmate of the California Youth Authority -- a prison system for young lawbreakers. Reflections on both happy and miserable times of his childhood, growing up, learning maturity and finally making a comfortable life for himself fill this heartfelt and revealing personal testimony. Highly recommended reading for young adults, East Side Dreams has justly earned the distinctions of being named the "Best First Book of the Latino Literary Hall of Fame", and has been honored as one of 200 Best Teenage Books in the United States by the New York Public Library System.

A Great Book!!!
My son who is 21 came home with this book and said Mom you have got to read this book it is so good. So I said o.k. mejio let me read it! When I started to ready it it brought back so many memories (I grew up in the East Side of San Jose) and most of the things he was talking about I lived it. I laughed and cried and could not put down the book. This is a great book for all ages. After I got done reading it I gave it to my Father to read and he enjoyed it too.

A Great Experience
Art Rodriguez takes us to jail with him so that we never need to go. He sits us next to him in his cell with nothing left to do but sit and remember. We try with him to connect the memories to being imprisoned, but there is no connection at all.

Although Art had an abusive father, he never once cites this as a reason for his violent behavior. He was a kid that made poor choices and got what he deserved. He blames no one but himself, and it is with this realization of responsibility that Art turns his life around. He went from street punk to a successful business man, a supportive father and an award winning author. He shows us that people can change and that bad mistakes are not the end of your life unless you allow them to be. Art Rodriguez is the silent roll model all troubled children are looking for.

This book is a great experience for audiences young and old. Buy it and read it. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Sooner or later, just about every American kid isrequired to memorize the Preamble to the Constitution ofthe United States. And until now, it was one of the moreboring, meaningless assignments. But artist and politicalcartoonist David Catrow (Stand Tall,Molly Lou Melon) has changed all that with hiswitty, clear-as-a-Liberty-Bell picture book. For him, theConstitution is "a kind of how-to book, showing us waysto have happiness, safety, and comfort." Withlaugh-out-loud cartoony illustrations, and the actualwords of the Preamble as the only text, Catrow depicts acamping trip taken by a diverse, bumbling group offriends, demonstrating the rights and responsibilitiesthe Constitution places on all Americans, young and old.In one especially winning picture, the kids' long-nosed,long-eared pooch provides "for the common defense,"keeping lackadaisical guard over the camp as the threehuman friends yuk it up in silhouette inside the tent.Readers will never yawn at mention of the Constitutionagain! (Ages 8 to 12) --Emilie Coulter ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Super discussion starter!
This fun book helped me to reach my fifth grade class in a way their social studies text never would have!Catrow finds a way to take the elegant (and sometimes difficult to translate into kid-talk) language of the Preamble and not only make it simeple to understand, but really helps put the kids right in there.

He makes it clear that this is a document for all Americans, not only including kids, but maybe especially for kids.

His buddy 'Bubbs', is pictured throughout so even the less than interested can be drawn in by finding the dog...

So glad I found this!

Disappointed
My husband who is off fighting for the Constitution sent this book to our daughter.If he had not sent it, I would want a refund.My daughter and I sat down to read the book together.She thought the drawings did not match the words and thought the author still did not like the Preamble. (HE makes mention in the begining that he was forced to think about the Constitution). There was no inspiration from this book and she hasn't picked it up again.The pictures are not exciting to children and only vaguely connect to the words.She loves the Freedom Rock version of the Preamble and and really enjoys Lynn Chaney's "America A Patriotic Primer", so I understand why he made the purchase, however it is not inspiring or uplifting or interesting.

What It All Means.....
As David Catrow tells us in his introduction, "...For me, the Constitution is a kind of how-to book, showing us ways to have happiness, safety, and comfort...", and he uses his immeasurable talents as an artist and cartoonist to teach an inspirational and unforgettable lesson that is sure to open interesting discussions at home and school.Following a glossary of what the actual words in the Preamble of the Constitution mean, (e.g. "IN ORDER TO FORM A MORE PERFECT UNION:To come together and make things better for everyone who lives in our country.INSURE DOMESTIC TRANQUILITY:To make sure we can all have a nice life and get along with one another.TO OURSELVES AND OUR POSTERITY:For kids, parents, other grown-ups, and all the people born in our country after we are."), Mr Catrow details the meaning of these important ideals, phrase by phrase, using his marvelously bold and busy cartoon illustrations.Each two page spread is a clever feast for the eyes, rich in engaging details, manic energy, and droll humor.Perfect for youngsters 8-12, We The Kids is a witty and memorable treasure, and one of the real winners of 2002 that shouldn't be missed.

A Great Book
I really love the book.The pictures and color are beautiful.The language is simple enough so a child with some adult help could understand the Preamble which includes words not common to the vocabulary of most children today.A great book.
M. Preston

A great book
A terrific way to learn the preamble.The illustrations are a riot!My whole family loves this book. ... Read more

Book Description

The story of Selavi celebrates the triumphs of children who face some of life_s most difficult challenges. In these pages, you_ll meet Selavi, a homeless child who is befriended by other children living on the streets in Haiti. They look out for one another, sharing food and companionship. Together they find the voice to express the needs of Timoun Lari, the children who live in the streets. With a caring community they are able to build a shelter, and from there to create Radyo Timoun, Children_s Radio, a station run by and for children, which is still in operation today. At Radyo Timoun, the questions and suggestions of children are broadcast for all to hear.The story takes place in Port-Au-Prince, Haiti, a country which has a long history of resistance and struggle. Haiti is the birthplace of Toussaint L_ouverture and many others whose dedication to justice led to Haitian independence from slaveowners.Haiti is perhaps best known as the island which orchestrated the first successful revolt by enslaved peoples in the western hemisphere in 1804. Haitian author Edwidge Danticat adds an essay at the end of the story of Selavi. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

All the colors of life...
This is a gracefully written, beautifully illustrated book that introduces young readers to a complex true story of hardship and resourcefulness, persecution and triumph. As a former teacher, I think it would also make a strong teaching tool to introduce the concept of human rights to young readers.

While the story has painful moments, the pages also contain joy, humor, and levity. The book does not condescend or oversimplify. It trains a keen child's eye, perceptive to all the colors of life, on the people and politics of Haiti. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Great search book
I disagree with the "baby-preschool" description of this book. I think it's a little too busy for babies, and I also think children in the early grades would really enjoy finding the animals on each page. (I used to teach fourth grade, and I think this would even enthrall a lot of early-mid elementary aged kids as well.) Every page shows a different setting, and it gives a number of how many animals of each kind that you are supposed to spot. Kids spend time finding all of the animals on each page, and they are also counting and learning about habitats as well. My four-year-old son spent HOURS looking at this book by himself, even though he couldn't yet read the animals' names and needed me to help him with that part. (That's part of why I think the baby-preschool label is way too limiting; older kids who can actually read the animal names might enjoy it even more for quiet examination.) The drawings are very kid-friendly -- they are realistic even though they have a picture book vibe to them. We really loved this book. ... Read more