Book Description

Winner of the 1995 Christopher Award "Books for Young People" Category.This best seller by the innovative team of Matthaei, Grutman and Cvijanovic is a visually stunning fictional account of a young nineteenth-century Sioux warrior’s quest for knowledge that takes him from the plains of his childhood to a far-off boarding school where he learns the ways of the white world and the value of his own traditions.A hand-calligraphed tribute to the narrative pictographs recorded by Plains artists in the ruled ledgerbooks they acquired in trade, the weaving of Cvijanovic’s richly detailed original illustrations in the "ledger" style into a simply written story inspired by actual events holds appeal for young readers and those who wish to learn about American Indian art and history. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Timeless beauty,timely story
What an extraordinarily beautiful and moving book this is. The text is simple and moving, as it limns the story of a 19th century Lakota Sioux boy through "his own" words and sketches. Although fictionalized, the book has the power of truth, and the "Ledgerbook" style illustrations are filled with vivid and unsentimental-though completely captivating-life and power. I cannot recommend this book highly enough, for children or adults.

A superb, multilcultural, timeless, educational masterpiece
Of the many excellent reviews of this book - starred in PW, for example - why did you choose the Kirkus Review's? The Ledgerbook was supervised, vetted and blessed by Arthur Amiotte, a Sioux Elder, with more credentials than you can count. A leading advocate of the power of education, Mr. Amiotte 's approval of and great delight in the authenticity of this book has obviously been overlooked in the KR reviewer's research. Throughout the entire country, this book has been cited again and again by educators and parents alike as being the most powerful, interactive teaching tool they've come across in years, not to mention being an extraordinry feast for the eyes. Please research your reviews before choosing the one that will (incorrectly in this case) represent the book to your many readers. Subjecting an extraordinary book to bad PR out of ignorance should be beneath you

1995 winner of the Christopher Award for best children's
Won the Christopher and International Readers Awards in 1995 because it is an authentic history, fictionalized, with stunning illustrations in the style of Plains Indians. We found it in the museum stores of the Southwest, where it was a favorite of the librarians. There is also a cd-rom called Journey of Thomas Blue Eagle, done by the illustrator.It is a favorite gift book of ours and hugely appreciated by the recipients ... Read more

Book Description

"Take up the pipe, Claudius," a voice growled near Jessie's bound head. "He's worth nothing without his pipe!"

Snatched from the docks of New Orleans, thirteen-year-old Jessie is thrown aboard a slave ship where he must play his fife so that captured slaves will "dance," to keep their muscles strong and their bodies profitable for their owners' use.

Jessie is sickened as he witnesses the horrible practices of the slave trade. But even those horrors can't compare to the one final event awaiting Jessie's witness. Can the cruelty to his fellow human beings be stopped? And will it be too late when it finally does stop?

In a stunning performance by Peter MacNicol, Paula Fox's enduring classic comes magnificently alive, with the seating truth about a period of American history we would otherwise most likely wish to forget.

"Fox has woven a spellbinding tale of suspense and survival that will horrify as well as fascinate..."

-- Library Journal (starred review)

"A story that movingly and realistically presents one of the most gruesome chapters of history, with all the violence, inhuman conditions, and bestial aspects of human nature -- exposed but never exploited in Fox's graphic, documentary prose."

-- Booklist (starred review) ... Read more

Reviews (106)

The Slave Dancer
The Slave Dancer by Paula Fox is about a boy and his extraordinary journey on a slave ship. A young boy named Jessie was abducted from his loving family by crew members to play his fife. He had a hard time adjusting to the fact that he would be playing music for the slaves on slave ship, the Moonlight. The Moonlight sailed to Africa to pick up slaves under the captain's strict orders so that he could gather a profit. Jessie disliked the slaves due to the suffering they endured and to make it worse, the slaves were thrown overboard because of a crew members mistake. Due to a terrible storm, Jessie and his new friend Ras had to swim to land where they were found by an old man. The old man helped Jessie and Ras but then sent Ras up north and Jessie home. In conclusion, The Slave Dancer was an interesting story that would be hard to forget.

The Slave Dancer by Paula Fox was a book worthy of the Newbery Honor Award. It did have some weak assets, including the fact that all the crew members weren't described as well as they should have been. The writing was extremely rich and painted many different descriptive pictures in my mind. It will be a quick read for almost anyone. I don't think this would be a good beginning chapter book for ages 7-9. As I read it, I came to the conclusion that it was a book for a more mature type of reader.

The Unsatisfied
I read this book thinking that it would be an epic. I was very wrong. I give it two stars so that it can claim it's dignity, but I will not be as easily swayed in this review. As I read, I felt that it was all playing up to something, something huge! But at the end it was like a bad movie... like the director got tired. If you wish read a multicultural book read Roll of Thunder Hear my Cry, or My Brother Sam is Dead. Do not read this book!

Great Compelling novel
I recently read that when Mrs. Fox had accepted the Newbery award for this powerful novel that a small group of African Americans had protested outside the calling this book rascist. In my personal opinion, it is every author's right to record the way things were even if they do offend someone people, especially when writing a historical novel such as The Slave Dancer or Roll of Thunder, Hear my Cry. And it gives me great pleasure to say that this group has persevered and rose above the tyrant which was called slavery

A Powerful, Compelling Read
I had to read this book as a school assignment as a sort of author study on Paula Fox. I have to say that I really enjoyed it. I didn't enjoy it as much as "Monkey Island" (also by Paula Fox), but I did find it a very satisfying book.

"The Slave Dancer" tells the story of Jessie Bullier, a 13 - year - old boy who lives with his mom and sister in a run - down, moldy shack in New Orleans. Right from the start you can tell that Jessie does not live a very charmed life. One day while at the docks, Jessie is kidnapped and brought aboard a slave ship called "Moonlight". He is introuced to an odd assortment of characters, among them Captain Cawthorne, Nicholas Spark, Ned Grime and Clay Purvis, who befriends Jesse throughout the four months or so he spends on the ship. Jessie is forced to "dance" the slaves with his fife. Towards the end he becomes friends with a slave named Ras. From here on you can probably guess what happens, but the last paragraph of the book makes for one of the eeriest endings in literary history.

I suggest the purchase of this book. It is very good, and proves that Fox has a unique blend of creating intricate storytelling combined with adult - style phrases and language. Perfect.

The Slave Dancer
The Slave Dancer, by Paula Fox is a wonderful book. It is full of excitement and adventure! The story is set in New Orleans. Jessie, the main character, gets kidnapped and is put on a pirate ship to live on for several months. Of course, he gets scared and home-sick, but after a while he gets used to it. As you meet the captian, and the slaves, and the crew, it seems like YOU are on the ship sailing on a endless plain of water. This book has so much excitment to it no wonder it won a Newbery Medal!! ... Read more

Book Description

A little Inuit boy discovers there's room for himself and his baby sister on their mother's lap. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

The absolute best of the new sibling books!
Many of our friends and family are in the time of life when the families are expanding, so a book to soften the blow to a newly de-throned older sibling is just the thing. When we visit a family with a present for a new baby, I ALWAYS make sure I have this book in hand for the older child. The only thing I vary is which version I give (hardcover, paperback and board book based on the age of the child).
The book is full of incredibly beautiful images of a simple life with text that is rhythmic and flowing. It exudes love and caring without being smothering or indulgent. It reinforces the idea that a new sibling, rather than being an annoyance, actually adds to the joy that is family life!
It is, far and away, the best of the books I have seen on the subject and I've looked at dozens! We even have several that were given to my son when my daughter was born, however, this is the only one that stayed in our reading repertoire. The children still sometimes go back to it (and mine are 6 and 8 now). "There's always room... on Mother's lap" was nearly a mantra in our house for a number of years!

Beautiful Story and Illustrations
This book tells the story of a little boy who, while curled on his Mother's lap, wants to bring all sorts of other objects up with him... until the baby wants to be included. Of course, there's "always room on Mother's lap" which the little boy finds is not only true but a pleasant experience for him as well.

I love the restful illustrations and the ethnic items the young boy wants to have with him on mom's lap. The overall story is one of sweet acceptance and a perfect read for a young older sibling.

A very nice book but for a little bit older child
I love this story but my son is only 16 months and it doesn't hold his attention as well as some of the other books we bought ("I'm a Big Brother," "The New Baby") to prepare him for becoming a big brother. The story is just beautiful and it reads very well; he's just not interested in it. I think if he was a little older, he might like it better.

Good Ol' Mom
This adorable book tells the simple story of a little boy who not only wants to be on Mother's lap (but not little brother!), he wants to pile all his favorite things on her, too. It happens to be set in an Alaskan village, and some items in the room are of interest for those children learning about Alaska. The Mother in the book is very patient and wise, and lets her boy know that "There's always room on Mother's lap." A very sweet and loving book.

Gentle and Loving!
My daughter is 11 months old and loves this book read to her. The rythmic phrase "back and forth" catches her attention and helps her focus in on each scenario. I borrowed this book from the library, but now I want to purchase it! Have fun reading this book to your baby! ... Read more

Book Description

Belle

After a grueling escape north, Belle Palmer is free, yet lost and alone. Separated from her father on the harrowing journey, Belle has nowhere to turn until she finds shelter with the Bests, the first free family she's ever known. For the first time in her sixteen years, Belle is able to express herself freely-except where her feelings for a certain dark-eyed young man are concerned.

The Beau

Daniel Best is headed for great things. Educated and handsome, at eighteen he is full of the promise and dream of his people, and is engaged to the prettiest (if the most spoiled) girl around. So when a bedraggled stranger arrives in his household and turns into a vibrant, lovely young woman, his attraction to her catches him entirely by surprise.

While Belle is determined to deny her feelings for him, Daniel is caught between his conscience and his infatuation with her. That the two belong together is undeniable, but that it could ever happen seems impossible.

Reviews (19)

A Romantic History Lesson
The Belle and the Beau would do any African American history buff
proud. Though targeted for a young adult audience, it is well worth anyone's time to read. This historical romance is so full of little known black history facts, that one could learn a lot and still enjoy the budding romance of the teenagers Belle and Beau.

Belle, a runaway slave, is taken in by the Best family after being separated from her father. She is amazed by this free family and even more intrigued by their son, Daniel. Daniel, who at first mistakes her for a boy, finds he likes what he sees when he realizes she is a girl. During her stay with the Best family, Belle and Daniel become close, but "Frannie the Queen" is lingering in the shadows waiting to cause trouble.

With the help of the Best family and other friends, Belle and you the reader will learn the history of the underground escape routes, the plight of the abolitionists beyond Frederick Douglass, and the dangers that can be caused by the slave catchers.

I found this book charming and full of history. I have always
enjoyed the historical romances by Beverly Jenkins for the mature audience. I am glad that a younger audience can now have the same opportunity to experiences these romantic history lessons.

Jeanette Wallington
APOOO Bookclub

A charming historical romance for teenage girls.
Belle has lived all her sixteen years in slavery. As a young girl she lost her mother, who was sold away. Her father has decided that he wants a better life for himself and his daughter, so they flee Kentucky, hoping to reach freedom in Canada. But the two are separated, and Belle finds herself lost and alone in Michigan. She is found by the side of the road by Daniel and Josephine Best, the children of free black parents who operate a station on the Underground Railroad. Belle finds herself taken in by the Bests, being treated like a member of the family. But while enjoying her newfound freedom, she also longs for news of her father. And though she doesn't mean to, Belle finds herself falling in love with Daniel, even though he is already engaged to another. Can they ever be together, and will Belle ever find her father again? I highly recommend this book to teenage girls who enjoy historical romances.

Excellent Historical Detail
Avon True Romance presents Harlequin-style fare: beautiful people fall in love at first sight and then must overcome some conflict to be together, the conflict usually being that one of them already has a significant other. In this series, the beautiful people happen to be young adults.
In Belle and the Beau, a prominent black family takes in a fugitive slave girl who falls for their oldest son, who is already practically engaged to fast Francine. Details about the abolition movement in the United States are neatly woven throughout the story as the Best family educate Belle about the Underground Railroad, Frederick Douglass, and anti-slavery conventions. She even learns to read. Jenkins really presents an intelligent romance with accurate historical details and fleshed out characters.
The stories are predictable, sweet and innocent, but the writing is solid, the covers attractive and the historical details accurate. I don't think any teens will pick these up if they are already avid fans of adult series romance, but younger teens may find them appealing and won't find any objectionable material -- perhaps to their dismay.

Belle and the Beau
Excellent young adult novel for an introduction into historical fiction. I have read all of Beverly Jenkins books. I would recommend this book for teens ages 15 - adults. Just enough history intertwined with fiction for fast enjoyble reading.

Great Book
I loved this book! It is so far my favorite of the Avon True Romance series. The author does a really good job of not rushing the plot of the story, making it all the more believable and better.
Belle Palmer came North not knowing what she would find and found more than she could have ever though possible. She finds friends and enemies, freedom to do what she pleases, and the chance to make something of herself, but there are questions still that she wonders about, like her father? and Daniel?
Daniel has everything about his life figured out, until he discovers that the runaway he found is turning into a vibrant young woman and is turning his head in more way than one. He knows that she is right for him deep down and does not want to admit it because of his attachment with Francine. He knows what his heart is telling him to do.... the question is will he follow it?
This book is well worth the read! ... Read more

Book Description

Literature Guides
A complete guide to teaching Guests. Includes an author biography, background information, summaries, thought-provoking discussion questions, as well as creative, cross-curricular activities and reproducibles that motivate students. ... Read more

Reviews (14)

Guests
Guests

Guests, by Michael Dorris was an adventurous, mysterious, exciting, and suspenseful book. When the author sets the tome in the beginning he describes the enchanting life of a young Native American searching for is position in life. As the story goes on he meets someone. "You're a girl" Moss the main character once said along with "Usually if a girl smiled at me I would laugh, or blush, but not his time, this time I smiled back" With these statements he shows the reader what love really is.
Answers to lives questions such as "Moss, what do you think beauty is" are hard to answer like that. In the forest when Moss meets a mysterious porcupine the author explains without putting it in words that no one can answer your life questions, but they can only help you.
This book was both adventurous and romantic. Moss had a very brave soul, or did he? When he walked into the forest he walked in without anything, not even a knife. You could infer he was scared and nervous because he stated, "I'm going with nothing, I said braver then I felt" With that said you could sense something bad was going to happen.
Moss the main character of this book was a dare devil at times but was also a scared at times too. Trouble, the girl Moss meets was definite a tomboy. She once stated, " Would you want to be a girl?" Explaining to Moss tat being a girl was NOT one of her favorite parts of life.
As Michael Dorris is a Native American boy himself I bet he wrote this book to express his childhood event or one of another's. Michael Dorris has also written, A Yellow Raft on Blue Water, and, The Broken Cord. With that books breakthrough brought fetal alcohol syndrome to national attention. This was a great book to learn lives questions and how to answer them. Because of Michael Dorris's sudden death he was not able to write more books.

For people who want to find about Native Americans!
One day Moss, a young Native American boy, follows Trouble, a young Native American girl, into a clearing in the woods to see where she is going. Moss talks to Trouble, lies to her about being on his away time, walks into the woods without any weapons or tools, and he gets lost. In the woods, Moss meets and talks to a porcupine, and the porcupine tells Moss not to be afraid of the guests that are coming to Moss's village. Moss thinks about the advice the porcupine gives him. Moss sleeps in the woods, and in the morning he finds his way out. Outside the woods Moss meets Trouble, and they talk as they walk back to their village. When they are at their village they see that the guests have arrived. They are worried!

Michael Dorris wrote this book very well. This story would be a good book for people who like adventure! It wouldn't be such a good book for people under the age of 8 because it is a little confusing. It was very interesting and it made me want to read on. If you are able to check out this book out or borrow it, my advice is that you read it.

Guests
...

Guests

Guests, was a great book By: Michael Dorris, even though he committed suicide, he was still a smart person. Michael made many books like, The Broken Cord, and the Yellow Raft on Blue Water ect... But one good book he wrote was Guests it's about a kid named Moss who is Native American. When Michael Dorris was growing up he was an American Indian so he was in the same situation as Moss. Moss was brave he went into the woods to find his role in life.

Moss the main character was brave he faced his fear of the woods and of girls. Moss saw this girl but he was scared of girls accept this one. Then after they get separated and that was sad. When Dorris wrote the book he added that love can happen to any one. Moss found a magic porcupine that would talk to him and the porcupine said something like it can be done just put your heart to it.

Guests
Guests

By Michael Dorris

Guests, an excellent book by Michael Dorris was an adventurous and touching book. Michael Dorris explained what it is like to be young and in love. He explained how the boy, Moss, could find his answers in the wilderness. After all, since Moss is from a Northeast Indian tribe he has to find his role in life. I'm guessing that Dorris wrote this book because he as well is partial American Indian.

To find his answers was difficult for the young boy. Until however, he meets a mysterious porcupine that tells him to go on with life. Dorris did not actually say this in his story but is trying to say that nobody can ever answer your questions.

If I were asked to describe this book I would say adventurous and romantic. Moss was very brave. But was he brave enough? He walked into the woods with nothing... This is where the book got very interesting.

Trouble who comes in the story later is a girl. Usually Moss is weird around girls but this girl was different He acted around her just like he would to anyone else.

Moss is what made this book interesting to me. He was adventurous and clever. He always knew what to do.

Even though this story takes place in the woods it is still very fun. The setting is what makes Guests suspenseful.

"Where have you been Moss"? "In the woods". "ALONE". The reason I put that quote is because it left a lot of questions ringing in my mind.

Now do you think Moss found his answers? To find that out you have to read the book!

I never got to read all of Michael Dorris's books. I am sure that he would have made more but instead he died on April 10-11 of committing suicide.

Guests: A book reveiw
Bray Ferguson
May 27, 2003
Community 7-213

Guests
Guests by Michael Dorris, was intriguing and suspenseful. As the authors explains the beautiful woodlands in the Northeast, he revisits his childhood by explaining to the reader that he, himself grew-up in an Indian tribe and fell in love, as did the boy, Moss.

He finds a girl and usually is scarred to talk to girls, but no, not this time, he smiles back. He tries to show his tribe and himself that anything is possible, just do everything you can. Moss keeps trying and he soon finds that in life nothing comes easily. Everyone tries to make as simple and sweet as possible, but as Moss tries to do exactly that, he finds himself getting much more out of it, LOVE!

This book was both adventurous, but still like a love story. As he was walking through the forest one day, thinking about life, he came across a magical porcupine. He started talking to him, and Moss was amazed. The magical lady porcupine told him the most important thing he needed to hear, "you are who you are, an no one can tell you the truth about that." I think everyone at one time needs to hear that. Ii wish we all had magical porcupines.

Moss is a normal boy, he gets into trouble a little to easily, but he always gets out of it. He enjoys walking in the woods and talking to the magical porcupine, he wants to be understood, and eventually, he is.

I enjoyed the book, but some chapters were hard to get through. To find out what happens to Moss, his girlfriend, and the magical porcupine, read the book Guests by Michael Dorris. ... Read more

Book Description

Christmas is coming and Carlos and his family are going home-driving south across the border to Mexico. But Mexico doesn't seem like home to Carlos, even though he and his sisters were born there. Can home be a place you don't really remember?

At first, La Perla doesn't seem very different from the other villages they pass through. But then Carlos is swept into the festivities by Grandfather, Aunt Ana, and the whole village. Finally, Carlos begins to understand Mama and Papa's love for the place they left behind, and realizes that home can be anywhere, because it stays in the hearts of the people who love you.

Eve Bunting and David Diaz-the Caldecott Medal-winning team behind Smoky Night- collaborated once again to create a dazzling picture book that glows with holiday joy and the spirit of Mexico.

Reviews (4)

Eve Bunting and David Diaz do it again!
Eve Bunting takes her readers on journey with a Mexican family going home for Christmas. The text she uses is elegantly written. Through the feelings expressed by Carlos and his family you get a real sense of the Mexican culture and the importance of family. David Diaz's illustrations lead you into the journey with Carlos and his family. With the use of collaged background and inset illustrations the pages come alive. The text of Bunting and the illustrations of Diaz give you the sense of being there. This is a book that a child of any age would enjoy.

Excellent book!
This book is very touching...it sensitively portrays the sacrafices Mexican immigrants have to make to move to America for their children to have a better life. Very well done themes of parental love, long car trips, the sadness of leaving one's home country, sibling realtionships, husband and wife being romantic (tasteful and age-appropriate), and a child's growing understanding of the complexities of life. Buy and read it to every child (and adult) you know.

Good story/GREAT illustrations
This story is well told, with a nice pace and sense of language. Diaz is up to his usual standards, creating a colorful world that you just want to hop right into. Judge this book by its cover - it's beautiful!

beutiful story and Illustration
The story will keep the attention of any child with the vivid illustrations of Diaz's technique ... Read more

Reviews (8)

A BOOK WITH MAJOR EXCITMENT!
If you like excitment this is a great story for you! It is about a little Japenesse girl. Her parents lived in japan but she was born in the U.S when they crossed over. Her Aunt is still in Japan. Many hard things happen. And I want you to read this book to find them out.

jar of dreams
Jar of Dreams is about Rinko a Japanese american girl. she lives in California and kids at school and just people in general say racial slurs to her, which makes her resent wish she didn't looks so Japanese. her family is barley making their payments. her dad is a barber but really wishes to be a mechanich and her mom cleans other peoples house. then Rinko's mom decides to start her own landry business, and the competing landrymat trys to get even. thinkgs start to change when Rinko's aunt Waka from japan comes for the summer and changes everyones attitudes. Everyone is Rinkos family begins to stand up for themselves and decides to go for their dreams. Rinko's dad decides to start a mechanic shop, Rinkos brother goes back to college to become a engineer and Rinko's mom keeps up her laundry service. i really recomend reading this book

One of he best books i ever read
The book "A Jar of Dreams" is the story of Rinko Tsujimura, an 11-year old 2'nd generation Japanese-American, growing up in California in the 1930's, as well as her family whichincludes her mama, and papa, her younger brothe joji, and her older brother Cal, wh dicourages her sister by saying that no school district will hire a japanese teacher (it is Rinko's dream to be a teacher). Rinko often resents being Japanese because she and her family are ridiculed, especially by Wilbur Starr, the owner of a laundry business. Starr wants to drive the Tsujimura's laundromat out of business, and threatens them. When Aunt Waka comes to visit them, from Japan, she teaches them to b proud of their unique japanese heritage. Eventually rinko's father and his go friend mr.kanda, stand up Wilbur Starr, and Rinko, Cal. and Joji, learn to be proud of being Japanese.

A jar of dreams
Rinko lives in California and is friendly and kind but many people don't pay attention to just because she is Japanese. Rinko feels she is no good until her Aunt Waka comes to visit. Then Aunt Waka teaches Rinko many things especially that she should be proud to be Japanese.

Rinko Learns About Herself
This book is a story you will want to read. Rinko Tsujimoto is a Japanese girl who is living in a family of five. She has one older and one younger brother. Rinko sometimes bullies her younger brother, Joji, but not much. They still love each other. Rinko's favorite is her older brother Cal, who is not in the book much. He has just begun college in Stockton, even though he doesn't think he'll get a good job because he's Japanese.
This story is all about Aunt Waka coming to stay with Rinko at her house and the adventures they have together. Rinko is not so thrilled about Aunt Waka at first. Aunt Waka has a deformed foot, and she gave Rinko a kimono instead of something she could play with. She was wrong about her though. Aunt Waka was great and she changed Rinko's life by teaching her to be proud of herself and her Japanese character. I give this story four stars because it doesn't have enough excitement for me and it's not the best story in the world. Still, if you like family stories then this is the book for you. ... Read more

Book Description

A young Indian boy carves a little canoe with a figure inside and names him Paddle-to-the-Sea. Paddle's journey, in text and pictures, through the Great Lakes to the Atlantic Ocean provides an excellent geographic and historical picture of the region. ... Read more

Reviews (52)

Reading this great book made me happy.
If you want to read a good book, Paddle-to-the-Sea would be the best one. It's got loads of excitement. The story is about a little wooden Indian figure in a canoe that travels through the 5 Great Lakes. The Indian boy who carved him wanted him to go to the sea. To find out if he really gets to the sea or not get this great book that I think you would love.

Paddle To The Store And Get A Copy Of This Book!
Paddle-To-The-Sea was one of the first long books my mother read to me [early 60's] and one of the first long books I read on my own. Many elements make this a fantastic book for elementary school-age children: it is an excellent geography lesson, teaching the reader about the Great Lakes region; it shows a character being creative and sending his creation out into the world without knowing if there will be a return for his actions; the payoff for the carver of Paddle-To-The-Sea comes only after a long period of time. When I spent the summer of 1966 in Minnesota with my family, we visited many of the places in the book including Lake Superior. I remember how much the book informed that summer. Several years ago I revisited Lake Superior for the first time since '66 and the images of a small carved Native American in a canoe were still on my mind. Give this book to a young person so they can take its literary journey and have it leave them with a lasting impression.

One of the best children's books ever!
Although this book is quite old, I had never read it before. What a wonderful book I've missed out on! This is a timeless book that encompasses a great story, history, geography, and the good will of people. There were a few lines that made me a bit uncomfortable that referred to Indians, but they really did seem to blend well with the story, and by the end of the book I had a deep appreciation for them. It's quite complicated, short chapter book with some very advanced vocabulary that would be hard for younger children.

I think young kids would like it because of the great story. Older kids would like it because of the huge amount of geography involved, and they could really get into looking at all the maps and follow the path the canoe takes on the way to the ocean. I also think kids in the upper Midwest would learn a lot about their area and maybe a little bit about the Indians who have been in this area for a lot longer than any of us. I really liked the way the author incorporated the different ports the canoe came upon and mentioned things about the town. For example, Duluth was described as "a city on a hill" with iron ore as its export. There were also really nice parts about the wildlife, the storms, and the general scenery that the canoe encounters.

Besides the wonderful story, the drawings and illustrations are exceptional. There are illustrations of the route that the canoe took along with an arrow pointing where paddle-to-the-sea is now. There are illustrations showing a sawmill, a canal lock, a breeches buoy, and a lake freighter. I believe this book would be great to study as a class by bringing out the history of the great lakes region, the history of Native Americans in the region, geography of the great lakes region, and the biology of the region.

A true childhood classic
I read my husband's worn copy of Paddle-To-The-Sea to my children, then to grandchildren. It's faded, dog-eared, worn at the edges and a little tattered, but it'll survive another generation of loving use, I'm sure. One of the true childhood classics, Paddle-To-The-Sea is a rare entity: a cross genre book for kids. The story of the little carved Native American canoe's trip from the North Country to the Sea is an adventure story, a geography lesson, a history lesson, and in some ways, it's even a romance. There are wonderful drawings, accurate maps - and an utterly engaging story. It's worth finding a copy in hardcover to buy, because you're going to want it to last as long as my husband's copy has, for sure, for sure.

an excellent read
This is close to being one of my favorite children's book ever. I don't know if it is normal to cry at the end of this book, but I do. I am so glad I finally added a copy to my bookshelf. I am waiting for the day when my grandchildren are old enough to read it themselves. ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Another Winner by Sharon Flake
Sharon Flake has successfully written another inspiring book dealing with inner-city youth. Money Hungry was another breath taking story about the problems that inner-city youth face today. Just as she did in The Skin I'm In, Sharon created characters so true to life that the reader feels so in touch with each character. In Money Hungry,Raspberry is so worried about living on the streets again, she is obsessed with having a security fund so that she and her Mother never have to face that horrific ordeal again. I already miss Raspberry and her friends. Finally, an author that grabs and holds the attention of my students who are so reluctant to read. With her books, my students do not want to stop reading, this being a major accomplishment. Don't expect to be able to put this one down. Thanks Sharon Flake for giving my students stories they can relate to. We are waiting for many more.

Truly Amazing!!!
I loved Money Hungry because Sharon Flake really captures the way life is. This book isn't a fantasy, it's life for some people. This book really made me appreciate what I have. Since I'm 10 years old I know what it's like to have money. You don't have to borrow your mom's money to buy things. I felt that this is what Rasberry (the main character) liked. She also seemed to like being able to have the feeling that she wouldn't ever have to live on the streets or be hungry, again. I would definatly(SP?)reccomend this book to everyone. I also read the sequel to this book: Begging for Change.

A masterpiece!
Money Hungry is a very good book for teens to read when they love stories that involve real life and real things. I love this book because I can realate to it, and I can picture myself being Raspberry Hill (the main character). Raspberry seems like she will really go places, like all of us want to. This is a great book by Sharon Flake. I recommend it very highly.

FROM A SHARON FLAKE READER
I THOUGHT THAT THE BOOK MONEY HUNGRY WAS EXCELLENT ESPECIALLY FOR KIDS TO READ IF THEY ARE OR THEIR FAMILY IS STRUGGLING WITH MONEY PROBLEMS .

SO I WOULD DEFIENTELY(SP?) GIVE THIS BOOK TEN STAR AS THE BEST BUT U CAN ONLY GIVE UP TP 5 SO I GIVE IT A FIVE!!

Money Makes the World Go ¿Round
Money Makes the World Go 'Round

Raspberry Hill is a young girl on a mission. After she and her mother left her crack-addicted father, they find themselves living on the streets. Raspberry is determined to make enough money so that she and her mother will never be forced to be homeless or hungry again. She enlists the help of her friends Ja'nae, Mai, and Zorro to make money by any legal means necessary.

Raspberry finds herself making a great deal of money and becomes obsessed with stashing enough money away that nothing else seems to matter. When one of her friend begins to borrow money without paying it back, Raspberry is faced with a dilemma, having to decide what she values more-money or friendship.

Sharon Flake has done an excellent job with this book. It is entertaining and shows the devastating affects of poverty. Flake also introduces several sub-plots through Raspberry's friends. Issues of abandonment, divorce, and being biracial are also discussed within the book. I highly recommend this novel to children and young adults as an eye opener about homelessness and poverty. I look forward to more works from this author, and would love to see a sequel or a separate book about each of Raspberry's friends.

Reviewed by Latoya Carter-Qawiyy... ... Read more

Book Description

When she is five, Young Ju Park and her family move from Korea to California. During the flight, they climb so far into the sky she concludes they are on their way to Heaven, that Heaven must be in America. Heaven is also where her grandfather is. When she learns the distinction, she is so disappointed she wants to go home to her grandmother. Trying to console his niece, Uncle Tim suggests that maybe America can be "a step from Heaven." Life in America, however, presents problems for Young Ju's family. Her father becomes depressed, angry, and violent. Jobs are scarce and money is even scarcer. When her brother is born, Young Ju experiences firsthand her father's sexism as he confers favored status upon the boy who will continue to carry the Park name. In a wrenching climactic scene, her father beats her mother so severely that Young Ju calls the police. Soon afterward, her father goes away and the family begins to heal. ... Read more

Reviews (34)

A Step From Heaven
"A Step From Heaven" by An Na is an outstanding story of a young girl's move to America with her family. Young Ju struggles to grasp the concept of going to heaven. She is under the impression that her and her family are going to heaven by plane, but soon learns that their destination is America.
America becomes the focus of a new start, good and bad, for Young Ju and her family. A new baby brother is born and her father becomes more violent. Also, Young Ju's apa(father) struggles with his alcohol dependancy.
Through her young life, Young Ju begins studying hard, being successful in school, and cooking, while her father works two jobs and her mother works at night.
Life is not always easy for Young Ju. She faces the struggle of keeping her Korean heritage as her parents want her to, and keeping the peace in the family, while blending in with her American friends. These adult responsibility's Young Ju has grow even stronger as she is forced to call the police after a violent attack by her father that threatens her life and her mother's.
Throughout the book, the reader sees the struggle of the family and the growth of a young Korean girl into a strong women. Any reader would be touched through the story "A Step From Heaven."

A Step From Heaven Captures Your Heart...
A spirited look into the world Korean immigrants. When little Young Ju and her family move to America they begin to realize in this new world life is still what you make of it. Chronicling the life of a young girl as she grows older this wonderful novel has great spunk and amazing heart. Dealing with love and heartbreak and even abuse this book will tug at your heartstrings until you reach the wonderful, albeit a bit anticlimactic ending.

An amazing story
A Step From Heaven is an amazing story of a young 4-year old Korean girl who hardly speaks a word of English but moves to America, where in Korea it has the reputation of being a step from heaven. Throughout the book, Young Ju grows up, developing and maturing with every page. You watch her take baby steps into adulthood starting at age 4 and finishing in college. A Step From Heaven grabbed my attention and held it from page 1 to page 156. It is very beautifully written with obvious skill and passion from the author, displaying an outstanding amount of reality. The book ommits a feeling that forces a tear when she is being abused and a quiver of joy whenever she accomplishes the slightests of acheivments. In just the right choice of wording, An Na protrays a sense of the weak understanding and the dashing mind of a 4-year-old that soon developes into the thoughts of an intelegent young woman with a diversity of understanding of her still newly aquired atmosphere as she guides her parents, who both spent their whole lives in Korea, through the complications of their new lives. A Step From Heaven has definatly become one of my favorite books.

Superb!
A young girl from Korea, Young Ju, and her family experience what may be considered the underbelly of the American Dream, the hardship and struggle associated with making a new life in America once it's discovered that the streets are not paved with gold. Adding to the confusion of life in a new country, Young Ju's father acutely feels the mounting pressure to become a successful American while maintaining a proper Korean family. Chronicling her childhood years in southern California, Ju speaks frankly and hauntingly of the ways in which Ju, her brother, and mother create a new life while coping with the growing physical and emotional abuse associated with her dad's worsening alcohol addiction. One can't help but feel Ju's every pain and joy owing to Na's superb writing. This story leave you irrevocably wondering and concerned about the immigrant children who cross your path daily.

A Step from Heaven
A Step From Heaven
The plot of the story is about two girls who are traveling to Mi Gook which in Young Ju's mind before they went to Mi Gook she called it heaven. Young Ju and her mother are getting ready to go to Mi Gook. When Young Ju and Uhmma get to Mi Gook Young Ju realizes that they are not in heaven when they are really I the southern part of California.

I both liked and disliked A Step From Heaven, I liked this book because it was interesting to see such a difference in cultures and I disliked this book because it was hard to go along with what they were saying for instance they would be saying something about something and then start a whole other subject/ place.

Mi Gook is Korean for America ... Read more

Book Description

Ever since the morning Molly woke up to find that her parents hadvanished, her life has become filled with terrible questions. Where have her parents gone? Who is this spooky old man who's taken her to live with him, claiming to be her great-uncle? Why does he never eat, and why does he lock her in her room at night? What are her dreams of the Skeleton Man trying to tell her? There's one thing Molly does know. She needs to find some answers before it's too late.

Reviews (19)

the "never let go of" book by :CLMH grade5
The book Skeleton Man is definitely a quote on quote spine chiller. If you addventours and mysterious books then pop in the car and go the the library because it is a darn good. I would give this book as many stars as it would offer. It starts out as a creppy and horrifing legend and just keeps getting creeper.When Molly, the main character, gets sort of scared when her parents don't come home from a night out in the town.Then her skinny and boney so-called uncle comes and claimes her.When he feeds her for the first time she gets dizzy and never eats his food again. And she especially gets creeped out when he lockes her in her roomand goes to the shed every night. one night she gets a hammer and knocks down the door then she hides in the bushes next to the shed. When her uncle leaves the shed, she sneaks into the shen and looks around. It is all neat and tidy. But then she sees a trapdoor in the corner and goes over to it. She opens it and what does she see!!!!

Skeleton Man
Prepare to be scared! Although based on a Native American tale the author makes you feel as though Molly (the main character) could be anyone in your classroom. When she wakes up to find her parents are not home and that days later they still do not arrive, the eerie tale begins. Molly learns she must trust her intuition and dreams that lead her to know the truth about what is happening to her and what has happened to her parents. Her strength and initiative (warrior instincts) are what gets her through. Not the ending I expected with a children's book , but showing girls can be strong and solve problems makes this a book I would recommend to those who dare to be scared.

A story that hits all the right buttons
This book does a number of things very well. The story is tremendously creepy and scary which is something intermediate grade readers always enjoy. Molly is a great character. She is strong and resourceful and ultimately saves herself. She also does something very sensible, intelligent and believable in the context of the story. She TELLS a trusted teacher about her situation and concerns with her "uncle." Even better, the teacher believes her and tries to help. So often as a reader I wonder why a character doesn't just TELL someone they need help. The background of the Native American folktale is terrific. The final scenes are absolutely gripping.

Creeps me out!!!
If you buy this book, prepare to have nightmares! It is both scary and good! BUY IT (just don't read it late at night)!

Skeleton Man
Skeleton Man is a very well written book about a young Mohawk girl named Molly whose parents mysteriously disappear. She is left alone to care for herself until a mysterious man claiming to be her uncle arrives to take care of her. Molly knows that the man is not really her uncle, although he convinces social workers with family photos of Molly's parents. These photos appear to be the same photos Molly's parents were carrying when they disappeared. Molly is taken to a spooky old house to live with the uncle who is careful not to reveal his face to Molly, and speaks only to tell her to eat. She is locked in her room each night, and is only allowed to leave to attend school. Molly's only escape from this frightening man is through her dreams where she is befriended by a rabbit who informs Molly her parents are buried but still alive. Is the skeleton man responsible for the disapperance of Molly's parents? Will Molly escape this frightening man, and find her parents? This is an awesome book filled with suspense and impossible to put down until you reach the very last page. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Ella enchanted
You open this book and the endpapers swirl and glow like black painted silk. They're the first indication you receive that this book is something special. Something different. Something apart from the rest. Using the narrating character of one Scat Cat Monroe, an actual well-dressed feline, the story follows Ella from child to lady of the stage. As we watch, Ella moves to Harlem thinking she's gonna make it big through dancing. Once there, however, she switches her focus and unleashes her fabulous voice. She pairs up with the Chick Webb Orchestra and Al Feldman. She then bebops with Dizzy Gillespie and earns herself the name "The Queen of Scat". It's a fabulous upbeat tale that takes the spirit of Ella Fitzgerald and lets her shine. The best possible tribute to her name.

The text of the story is especially amusing. Sometimes a book will attempt to speak in a jiving slangy sort of way and simply come off as annoying. Other times, the author sounds as if he/she is trying too hard. Fortunately, Andrea Davis Pinkney has everything under control so that when the book says something like, "She won the contest straight up, kicked her dance dreams to the curb, and pinned all her hopes on being a singer", you know it's true. There's a poetry to this book's speech that never crosses the line from authentic to agonizing. Instead, it's got a rhythm all its own.

Accompanying Andrea's text are Brian Pinkney's illustrations. At first I was a little put off by the amount of magical realism evident in its pages. Then I read Brian's inspirations (William H. Johnson, Aaron Douglas, the Art Deco movement, etc.) and it all made sense. And there's no arguing that the pictures here are fan-freakin'-tastic. Brian Pinkey has used scratchboard to make these images as bright and free flowing as they are. The result looks like nothing so much as woodcuts on acid. There's breath and movement to these pictures, and Ella herself has been granted the power of appearing larger than life.

If I've any objections to this book, maybe it comes with the choice of creating Scat Cat Monroe. Do we really need an anthropomorphic cat to lure children into this story? But it's a small complaint. Andrea Pinkney is kind enough to supply a biography, bibliography, videography, and selected discography at the end of the book for future reference. Always a nice touch. The Pinkney duo have truly created one of the best picture books encompassing the jazz, scat, and bebop movements of the past. This is the book to read.

A great story to share with young people
Ella Fitzgerald: The Tale Of A Vocal Viruosa by Andrea Davis Pinkney and Scat Cat Monroe is the amazing true-life picture book story of the First Lady of Song, also known as the Queen of Scat, Ella Fitzgerald. This amazingly gifted African-American singer, and her illustrious achievements are presented with free-wheeling, full-color illustrations by Brian Pinkney and a jivin' prose. A great story to share with young people about the joy of music and reaching for one's dreams, this Weston Woods school library packaging edition is enhanced with the inclusion of a CD of the story with page-turn signals.

the first lady of song
The Pinkney couple's biography on Ella Fitzgerald is a delightful read for young children who want to learn more about the talented jazz artist. The use of narrator Scat Cat Monroe as a device to engage children is successful especially due to his use of language. The rhymes and rhythms the authors adopt to tell the story echo the snazziness of the music at the time. Young readers will thoroughly enjoy getting to know more about the artist Fitzgerald through this story.

I love Ella
I found a children's book about her, even better. It was a great book to jive with. Beautiful pictures, and a nice history lesson on this wonderful woman!

A Tribute to the First Lady of Song.....
"You may think I look like any other cat. But baby, I'm in a class all by myself. Scat Cat's my name. Scat Cat Monroe. A name I've earned. Got my name from knowin' Ella. Ella Fitzgerald. The Queen of Scat. What's scat? you ask. Scat's the sound that don't hold back. Ella's sound-that was scat. Singing so supreme. Music's velvet-ribbon dream..." Narrated by this cool, zoot suited feline, Scat Cat Monroe introduces the incomparable, Ella Fitzgerald, to a whole new generation of fans. From her humble beginnings in Yonkers, New York, to her contest winning debut at Harlem's Apollo Theater at seventeen, to her meteoric rise, singing with the big bands and jazz artists of the 1930s and '40s, Scat Cat was there, stompin' at the Savoy with the Chick Webb Orchestra and jammin' to cloud nine and back with Dizzy Gillespie. "Now, when Ella performed, she let her lyrics go. She took her singing out to play." Andrea Davis Pinkney's engaging, lyrical text swings with imagery, magic, and rhythm. Brian Pinkney's bold, bright, and inventive illustrations dazzle, as they swirl around the pages to the music of the words. Together, word and art create an inspiring and captivating introductory biography starring the First Lady of Song. With an Author's Note at the end to complete the story, Ella Fitzgerald is an energetic, fun-filled tribute, that's perfect for music lovers 8-12, and also works well as a read-aloud for younger children. ... Read more

Book Description

Violet Paz has just turned 15, a pivotal birthday in the eyes of her Cuban grandmother. Fifteen is the age when a girl enters womanhood, traditionally celebrating the occasion with a quinceañero. But while Violet is half Cuban, she’s also half Polish, and more importantly, she feels 100% American. Except for her zany family’s passion for playing dominoes, smoking cigars, and dancing to Latin music, Violet knows little about Cuban culture, nada about quinces, and only tidbits about the history of Cuba. So when Violet begrudgingly accepts Abuela’s plans for a quinceañero–and as she begins to ask questions about her Cuban roots–cultures and feelings collide. The mere mention of Cuba and Fidel Castro elicits her grandparents’sadness and her father’s anger. Only Violet’s aunt Luz remains open-minded. With so many divergent views, it’s not easy to know what to believe. All Violet knows is that she’s got to form her own opinions, even if this jolts her family into unwanted confrontations. After all, a quince girl is supposed to embrace responsibility–and to Violet that includes understanding the Cuban heritage that binds her to a homeland she’s never seen. This is Nancy Osa’s first novel. ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Very enjoyable!
A well-written and funny coming-of-age story about fifteen year old Violet Paz, this book really keeps the pages turning!With the help of her two best friends, Violet struggles to change tradition at her quince party, a Cuban celebration for teenage girls turning fifteen.Violet also tries to uncover more information about her Cuban roots, which her father and grandparents are unwilling to talk about.The humerous side of the story is found in Violet's crazy family domino tournaments and get togethers, and her adventures competing on a speech team in original comedy.Sure to be a big hit!

50% Cuban or 100% American?
-Keith Frankford

Violet Paz is a 15 year old, half Cuban half polish teenager growing up is the suburbs of Chicago. She goes through the challenges and difficulties of growing up and following her Cuban traditions which mean so much to her grandmother.With her tenth grade year being full of crazy, loving, zany, funny cookouts, her coming of age party (quince), first dates and crushes, along with the speech team, and tons of domino games she wonders how she'll survive. This book Cuba 15 is filled with great descriptions, humor, and everyday situations for teenage girls just trying to get through one day, with out having to worry about how crazy school, boys, and family can be. Cuba 15 is a great book, and I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good laugh.

With Violet turning 15 and spending a fair amount of her 10th grade year planning for her quince, a coming of age party which is a Cuban tradition. She must choose a dress; in which her grandmother wants her to wear a Pepto-Bismol pink colored dress with tons of ruffles. She decides to mix her new-age ideas with her old Cuban traditions. While in an adventure to learn about her own traditions and Cuban culture, she realizes how important family is along the way. As Violet is about to become a women she uses at home situations in her comedy speeches to help her laugh off some of the hilarious get-togethers and cookouts.This book is hilarious and will keep you laughing, from the burning of the roast at the cookout to the endless games of dominos. The book Cuba 15 is a good choice for anyone of any background not only of the Cuban culture.

I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys learning about something different and would enjoy taking an adventure on a magical ride through a mystical journey, and through the history of different cultures and values by which one culture lives by.The book also makes you feel connected to the characters with the many ways the author describes the mood and feelings of the character, and with the growth of the character, Violet Paz, through the book into womanhood; you also feel like you grow with the character in accepting different forms of doing things and different traditions. The book Cuba 15 shows a wonderful mix of cultures and traditions, and shows the different customs and responsibilities of different cultures. I recommend it 100% to anyone!

50% Cuban or 100% american?
Violet Paz is a 15 year old, half Cuban half polish teenager growing up is the suburbs of Chicago. She goes through the challenges and difficulties of growing up and following her Cuban traditions which mean so much to her grandmother.With her tenth grade year being full of crazy, loving, zany, funny cookouts, her coming of age party (quince), first dates and crushes, along with the speech team, and tons of domino games she wonders how she'll survive. This book Cuba 15 is filled with great descriptions, humor, and everyday situations for teenage girls just trying to get through one day, with out having to worry about how crazy school, boys, and family can be. Cuba 15 is a great book, and I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good laugh.

With Violet turning 15 and spending a fair amount of her 10th grade year planning for her quince, a coming of age party which is a Cuban tradition. She must choose a dress; in which her grandmother wants her to wear a Pepto-Bismol pink colored dress with tons of ruffles. She decides to mix her new-age ideas with her old Cuban traditions. While in an adventure to learn about her own traditions and Cuban culture, she realizes how important family is along the way. As Violet is about to become a women she uses at home situations in her comedy speeches to help her laugh off some of the hilarious get-togethers and cookouts.This book is hilarious and will keep you laughing, from the burning of the roast at the cookout to the endless games of dominos. The book Cuba 15 is a good choice for anyone of any background not only of the Cuban culture.

I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys learning about something different and would enjoy taking an adventure on a magical ride through a mystical journey, and through the history of different cultures and values by which one culture lives by.The book also makes you feel connected to the characters with the many ways the author describes the mood and feelings of the character, and with the growth of the character, Violet Paz, through the book into womanhood; you also feel like you grow with the character in accepting different forms of doing things and different traditions. The book Cuba 15 shows a wonderful mix of cultures and traditions, and shows the different customs and responsibilities of different cultures. I recommend it 100% to anyone!

CUBA 15 is a well-written novel about growing up.
Violet Paz knows little about her half-Cuban, half-Polish heritage. She simply feels American. So when her Cuban grandmother insists that she have the traditional Quinceanera (the celebration of Violet's 15th birthday), she is reluctant. Will she have to wear an awful ruffled dress and be put on the market for marriage? She finds that quince is instead about tradition, family and self-discovery.

CUBA 15 is a wonderful book filled with humor. Armed with "The Dummies Guide to Quinceanera," Violet learns that she can have a theater theme for her special day, a subject that's very important to her. She does not have to employ all of the old traditions, but she does use enough of them to create a magical mix of cultures with old and new traditions.

While preparing for the big event, Violet studies and writes about her family in an attempt to understand them. Her family's marathon domino games become the subject for a comedy sketch she performs for competition. She secretly participates in a rally for Cuba, inspiring great anger and division in her family, who lived among the political strife there. She also finds her first boyfriend and discovers again how valuable her two best friends are to her.

The actual event is anticlimactic but fun. CUBA 15 is a well-written novel about the journey of growing up.

--- Reviewed by Amy Alessio

What a difference a year makes
Violet Paz's family does not understand her, which is hard enough when you are 15, but even worse, SHE doesn't understand THEM.Her Cuban father and Polish mother maintain a lively, loud household where dominos rule, extended family members feel free to meddle into everyone's business and large parties are annual events.When Violet's grandmother insists that Violet have a quinceanero (a 15th birthday celebration announcing her arrival to womanhood), Violet does not see how such a tradition fits into her suburban Chicago life.After all, her father refuses to speak of his life in Cuba and Violet barely speaks the Spanish her parents and grandparent use so easily.Plus, Violet and her girlfriends are much more interested in boys and school than in some archaic Cuban rite of passage.But planning the party is just one of Violet's concerns this year; she also has to come up with an original comedy piece for the Speech competition.As Violet's creativity and poise develop, she learns to better appreciate and understand her loving-if loco-family, and her Cuban heritage.Violet and her friends are lively, well-developed female characters, and this book will be of most interest to teenage girls.But it humorously and touchingly reveals the dynamics of a multi-generational and multi-cultural family, making it a good read for everyone. ... Read more

Book Description

A year they'll never forget

Ten-year-old Frederika (Fred for short) doesn't have much faith that the new teacher in town will last very long. After all, they never do. Most teachers who come to their one-room schoolhouse in remote, Alaska leave at the first smell of fish, claiming that life there is just too hard.

But Miss Agnes is different -- she doesn't get frustrated with her students, and she throws away old textbooks and reads Robin Hood instead! For the first time, Fred and her classmates begin to enjoy their lessons and learn to read and write -- but will Miss Agnes be like all the rest and leave as quickly as she came? ... Read more

Reviews (10)

The Year of Miss. Afnes
The Year of Miss Agnes
Kirkpatrick Hill
©2000, Margaret K. McElderry Books
ISBN 0-689-82933-7
$16.00

Kirkpatrick Hill was raised in Fairbanks, Alaska. She has been a elementary teacher for more than thirty years. She is also the author of Toughboy and Sister and Winter Camp. Hill has six children and three grandchildren. This is her first Bluebonnet Nominee.
The Year of Miss. Agnes is a standard size intermediate book with no pictures or maps. The wording that Hill uses helps the reader get a mental picture of what the story is about.
The story takes place in 1948 in a small Athabascan village on the Koyukuk River. The story is told by ten-year-old Fred (Frederika) who lives with her mother, her deaf sister, Bokko, and is close to her grandparents. Her father died when she was younger. All of the teachers that taught at that school left and never came back. Miss. Agnes taught in a one-room schoolhouse and enlightened children of all ages to read, write, spell, learn math and history, and be able to draw. She also taught Bokko how to talk and understand people.
By the end of the story the whole class, Fred and Bokko's mom were able to understand Bokko and respond to her.

Heartwarming!
The Year of Miss Agnes is a heartwarming tale of children in an Alaskan Village named Koyukuk. Fred (short for Fredrika) tells of the trouble her village has in keeping teachers in their small school. Year after year, the teachers leave for one reason or another, which the children believe is some fault of their own. Until the year Miss Agnes arrives and teaches the children in a new and interesting way. Everyone, children and adults included learn valuable lessons from Miss Agnes. The question is, will she stay longer than the others?
This book is written by Kirkpatrick Hill, an author who is a school teacher in the Alaskan "bush". She chooses appropriate vocabulary related to the life they live. She highlights the differences in their culture through the eyes of a child. Most children will be amazed at the responsibilities the children in this book embrace. I think this book would be wonderful for parent and child or teacher and child to read together and discuss. The language is simple, and the Indian words are described in context. Overall, an excellent book to read, discuss and enjoy. I can't wait to read another of Kirkpatrick Hill's books.

The Year of Miss Agnes
We all rate this book a 1 star, because it was sort of interesting. It was mainly boring. ALl that occured was teaching and learning. There were not a lot of exciting parts in the story. Although it was in Alaska it still wasn't very adventurous.The characters were not described very well.

The Best Year Ever
The Best Year Ever
Kirkpatrick Hill 2000

Frederika thinks that this new teacher of hers is going to fail. But it happens that Miss Agnes proves them wrong. This story takes place in Alaska and it is a good book to read when it is cold outside like it is in Alaska. One interesting part I really liked was when Miss Agnes gave her class all new working supplies like pencils, pens, color pencils, markers, crayons, and colored paper and more. They thought she wouldn't last long either because there always was a bad smell of fish in Alaska but she said, "Well, I can't smell anything. I have sinus trouble." I would think people who just like sit down by the fire, have a cup of hot chocolate, and read to a younger one would like this book. I would give this book a 4 1/2 stars out of 5 if I had to choose, but it is right on the line for a 5 star book. I just want you to know this is the best book ever in my opinion!

The Year of Miss Agnes
This boook is about a class that gets a new teacher about every year. Then a girl named Fredrika was helping Old man Anderson in his shop and she needed to go home. Right when Fredrika went home a new teacher came into the shop. She sees the new teacher and immediatly goes to tell her best friend that they were getting a new teacher. When school started Miss Agnes recognized Fredrika and Bertha (Her best friend). Miss Agnes dicovers that Fredrika's sister Bokko is deaf and needs to go to school to learn how to do sign language. Fredrika's mother threw a fit! Her mother thought that going to school was a waste of time. Their mother finally let Bokko go to school. Bokko learns to read, write, and do sign language. Miss Agnes was only going to teach for one year though so she could go back to England, but is that true? Will she stay or will she go back to England? ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Color with a twist
The main attraction for my 2 1/2 year old son is that it had a dragon in a parade AND firecrackers! Of course that's not all, the book is very colorful & we enjoyed couting orange crabs at the sea, green toads in the graden,yellow taxis on the road, purple kites in the sky, dumplings on a plate & much more.
Very intertaining.