A Wrinkle in Time (Madeleine L’Engle)

Title:   A Wrinkle in Time

Author:  Madeleine L’Engle

Target Ages:  10 and up

Genre:  Fantasy

Award:  Newbery Award and Lewis Carroll Shelf Award

Publisher Summary:

It was a dark and stormy night; Meg Murry, her small brother Charles Wallace, and her mother had come down to the kitchen for a midnight snack when they were upset by the arrival of a most disturbing stranger.

“Wild nights are my glory,” the unearthly stranger told them. “I just got caught in a downdraft and blown off course. Let me be on my way. Speaking of way, by the way, there is such a thing as a tesseract.”

Meg’s father had been experimenting with this fifth dimension of time travel when he mysteriously disappeared. Now the time has come for Meg, her friend Calvin, and Charles Wallace to rescue him. But can they outwit the forces of evil they will encounter on their heart-stopping journey through space?

Memorable Lines:

Life, with its rules, its obligations, and its freedoms, is like a sonnet: You’re given the form, but you have to write the sonnet yourself.

We can’t take credit for out talents.  It’s how we use them that count.

Just because we don’t understand doesn’t mean that the explanation doesn’t exist.

Evaluation: 

I just finished A Wrinkle in Time for the third time. The first time I read it was in grade school.  I was in college the second time. This time, I listened to it on CD as a refresher for the upcoming movie.

I generally like the protagonist in children’s novels.  However, this one is an exception.  Meg is a bit too whiny and insecure.  She has unrealistic expectations, especially of her father.  She often grated on my nerves. On the plus side, she is a devoted sister and friend.  

The other main characters are likable. Calvin is kind and protective of Meg while being her biggest advocate.  Charles Wallace is wise, brave, and helpful. 

The adults are admirable and trustworthy.  From Mrs. Murry to the three Miss W’s, all the women are strong and smart, but also resourceful and compassionate. Mr. Murry is a devoted father. The Murry’s are steadfast in their commitment to one another despite their involuntary separation.

The plot is paced well. The creatures and planets are imaginative and exciting. However, the ending wrapped up a little too quickly and easily, but it was satisfying.  The main plot points come to a close while leaving it open for the sequel. 

The motifs are powerful—family, love, courage, non-conformity, and friendship.  Children who feel like outsiders—externally or internally—will connect with the heroic trio.  For those who like deeper discussions, there is plenty to mine. 

A Wrinkle in Time was a memorable book for me as a kid.  The unforgettable motifs, characters, and plot have kept it relevant five decades after its first printing. 

Ideas for Extension Activities at Home or Lesson Plans for Teachers:

Scholastic Teacher’s Guide

Resources for Teachers

Study Guide

Teacher’s Guide from MacMillan

For more Middle Grade book recommendations, visit the MMGM round up.  

The Crossover (Kwame Alexander)

Title

The Crossover

Author

Kwame Alexander

Ages

Middle Grade and Teens (YA)

Sample Poem

“Conversation”

Dad, this girl is making

Jordan act weird.

He’s here, but he’s not.

He’s always smiling.

His eyes get all spacey

whenever she’s around,

and sometimes when she’s not.

He wears your cologne.

He’s always

texting her.

He even wore loafers to school.

Dad, you gotta do something.

Dad does something.

He laughs.

Filthy, talking to your brother

right now

would be like pushing water uphill

with a rake, son.

This isn’t funny, dad.

Say something

to him. Please.

Filthy, if some girl

done locked up JB,

He’s going to jail.

Now let’s go get some doughnuts.

Publisher Summary

"A bolt of lightening on my kicks...

The court is sizzling.

My sweat is drizzling.

Stop all that quivering.

Cuz tonight I'm delivering.

raps basketball phenom Josh Bell.  Thanks to his dad, he and his twin border, Jordan, are kings on the court, with crossovers that make even the toughest ballers cry.  But Josh has more than hoops in his blood.  He's got a river of rhymes flowing through him--a sick flow that helps him find his rhythm when everything's on the line.

As their winning season unfolds, things begin to change.  When Jordan meets the new girl in school, the twins' tight-knit bond unravels.  In this heartfelt novel, basketball and brotherhood intertwine to show Josh and Jordan that life doesn't come with a playbook and, sometimes it's not about winning.

The Good

Alexander creates life-like characters that middle grade readers can connect to.  Josh (Filthy) and Jordan (JB) are typical seventh graders dealing with love, friendship, school, and family issues. They have sensible parents who are devoted to each other and the boys.  Much of the novel involves positive interactions between the parents and the twins. 

Rather than chapters, the narrative is broken into four quarters and overtime. The text is in mostly free style poetry, but there are some rhyming ones as well. Most of the poems are written like short vignettes or as conversations. Sometimes the narrator muses on intriguing words or basketball rules. While some figurative language is incorporated, overall the poems are highly accessible to the target audience. 

While Josh's love for basketball comes to the forefront as the novel begins, I quickly realized he is not a flat character.  He is smart, loyal, and sensitive. Words fascinate and delight him. Josh is devoted to his family, especially JB. There is much more to discover about him.  

The Bad

My attitude. Well, at least at first. After several recommendations, I started listening to the audio book. I will keep it 100%. I rolled my eyes with all the basketball talk and wondered if I could make it through it.  I do not regret sticking it out.  The Crossover defies expectations.

The only “bad” about the text is a couple subtle references to the parent’s sex life. Very subtle, but creeped me out anyway.  No young person wants to put parents and sex together in the same thought.  At least I hope not! 

The Brilliant
The significance of the title is what stands out most to me.  The crossover is a basketball move that Josh is known for.  The books is about basketball, so at first it seems that is the reason for the title.  However, I found that is much more.  First, the boys are crossing over into adolescence.  With that crossover, comes hormones and girls.  JB’s relationship with a girl comes between the brothers.  They are moving into a new phase of their lives and relationships.  Another crossover is in Josh’s attitude.  He begins a bit flippant and arrogant, which leads to a bad decision.  Fortunately, he has good parents and coaches.  Their consequences prompt him to reflect and to grow into maturity.  Finally, a character crosses over into death, impacting the lives, growth, and attitudes of Josh and others.  The multiple layers are rich for discussion and reflection.

Even though I am not a sport’s fan, many tweens and teens are. There is a huge enthusiastic audience for this type of book. Whether a sports lover or not, I cannot more highly recommend this Newbery and Coretta Scott King winning novel.  

It's Marvelous Middle Grade Monday.  Hop on over to Shannon Messenger's blog for other middle grade recommendations.

Hidden Roots (by Joseph Bruchac)

Title:  Hidden Roots

Author:  Joseph Bruchac

Target Age: Middle Grade – Young Adult (YA)

Summary from Publisher

As hard as they try, 11-year-old Sonny and his mother can’t predict his father’s sudden rages, which can turn physical in an instant.  Jake’s anger only gets worse after long days laboring at the local paper mill—and when Uncle Louis appears.  Louis seems to show up when Sonny and his mother need help most, but there is something about him and his quiet, wise ways that only fuels Jake’s rage.  The love of Sonny’s fragile mother, the support and protection of his Uncle Louis, and an unexpected friendship with a librarian help Sonny gain the confidence to stand up to his father.

Evaluation

Joseph Bruchac is a beautiful storyteller. He builds sympathy and a connection with his young protagonist immediately. There is a fog hiding and foreshadowing the family secrets that tantalizes, prompting me to keep reading to find out everything.  I also wanted to make sure Sonny and his mom were going to be safe.  His father’s temper is a bit scary (definitely may be for younger readers). However, this area is tempered for the target audience (11-14). There is nothing especially graphic.  As the novel progresses, the father gains more control over himself and uses better coping mechanism for his anger.

Hidden Roots is heavily character driven.  Sonny grapples with common issues like feeling isolated at school, coping with heavy family issues, and dealing with a parent being out of work. He finds books can be an escape from many of the difficulties. Sonny matures, slowing moving into the adult realm.  Though he is only 11, he begins working to help his family--both at home with the chores and outside of it to help with the finances. He must deal with his family's hidden roots and secrets.  

Sonny’s father is distant—physically and emotionally.  His father is away working long hours.  Even when he is home, he does not know how to connect with his son.  Uncle Louis though steps in as a vital father figure. The sense there is something more in the relationship is hinted at and comes out fully in the end.  (I am not going to spoil it.)  His mother is the least developed, but she is Sonny's protector and support.  

Bruchac has a Native American heritage that plays an important role.  Uncle Louis teaches Sonny about some of their values especially as they relate to their close respect and connection to the natural world.  The most intense aspect is the revelation about eugenics being used on Native Americans and how it relates to the characters’ past. (This aspect isn't brought up until the end of the novel.)  A tension is created between a desire for some Natives to embrace who they are with fear, anger, and frustration over having to hide it to fit into society. This tension is one of the most compelling parts of the novel.

Hidden Roots is a serious realistic fiction.  The novel gives insight into love, family, and acceptance.  The language and charactization are magnificence. Though it is written through the perspective of an 11-year-old and the harsh content is tempered, I feel the book is more suited for 12 and up.  With the guidance of a teacher or parent, younger readers can also enjoy it.  It is definitely worth your time reading, especially if you want a multicultural or Native American focused book for your curriculum or home reading.

Extension Areas for Educators

• Research eugenics as it relates to Native Americans and other people
• Research the Trail of Tears and other ways Native Americans were removed from their lands
• Learn about the signs of physical abuse and how to help if you see someone in need
• Brainstorm and discuss ways to handle anger in a positive manner
• Interview family members and research the "hidden roots" in your family tree
• Read Native American tales about their connection to nature 
• Take a early morning hike to watch the sun rise (Sonny does this activity with Uncle Louis)

Before I Fall (Lauren Oliver)

I just finished listening to Lauren Oliver’s Before I Fall on audio.  When I first began the book, I was tempted to stop it.  The characters came across arrogant, superficial, and immoral.  All qualities I hate to see in anyone, but especially as models for teens.  Because of the countless rave review I have encountered over the past couple years on the book (and because I enjoyed one of her other books, Delirium), I plunged forward.   I am glad I did. 

Plot:  Oliver takes the familiar “groundhog day” plot, but she makes it feel fresh.  Seventeen year old Sam keeps living the day of her death over and over for a total of 7 days.  The first few days she is only interested in finding a way out.  She is also still stuck in her immaturity, prejudices, and shallow teen self.  With each effort to make a significant change, Sam slowly sees the day (and much of her life) through a 360 degree lens.   The multi-layered plot has a steady pace that kept me wanting to come back to hear more.

Characterization:  At the opening of the book, I disliked all the characters.  I grew to like Sam and the others. Even the fiercest character, Lindsey, earned my sympathy. They each illustrated in different ways that people are much more than they seem. The popular people are often some of the most broken, always looking to cover up their hurts, habits, and failings. Sam, also, learns how her actions impact others, often in unexpected and devastating ways. The circumstances, I hope, will prompt young adults to consider their choices more carefully.

Motifs: There are so many great motifs.   First, the story focuses on the bullying of one innocent classmate, Julia.  As she lives out each day, Sam feels the weight of her group’s actions toward this particular peer as well as a few others.  The message about the impact of bullying is real and relevant.  Next, I love how Sam begins to appreciate the people and the world around her.  Unfortunately, she only has a short time to revel in it, but readers will definitely be challenged to “love deeper” and “speak sweeter.” Finally,  illusions play a significant role. Sam lives in an illusion—until that fateful day of her death. She struggles at first to see others and herself for what they are in reality.  As she peels back the onion layers of that day and her life, she gains a greater understanding of herself and those around her.

Language: I love Oliver’s often lyrical and beautiful use of language and metaphor.  Her dialogue comes across genuine and realistic.  The one aspect I did not enjoy is the frequent cursing.  Two of the most common words—sh*t and b**ch—are used more excessively than I prefer, especially for young people. Yes, I know that many do curse—and do it often—and most people cuss on occasion.  For many, this issue will not bother them.  To me, cursing is the crutch of those who lack imagination and/or vocabulary to express themselves another way.  For these teen characters, it is likely the case. 

Sexual Situations:  I was especially saddened by Sam’s initial desire to have sex for the first time with a boy she had mediocre feelings with to “get it over with.”  Fortunately, this attitude does eventually mature.  Also, Sam is flirty with one of her teachers.  On the day she decides to “live it up” since everything will be reset the next day anyway, she becomes sexually aggressive with the instructor, leading to some intense physical contact.  This scenario is a HUGE pet peeve of mine in young adult fiction.  Fortunately, Sam becomes repulsed by the event in retrospect.  With each fictional or real occurrence of the inappropriate teacher-student relationship, I feel it becomes less shocking and, slowly, becomes seen less and less as immoral or wrong—which I believe is a sad commentary on our times.  Overall, the girls approach sex is playful and fun. They are described draping themselves all over guys who appear to have little respect for them.  One of their favorite sayings is “No glove.  No love.”  If they are going to have sex, I appreciate that they at least advocated condom use.  Like many contemporary youth fictions, the seriousness of sex as an extension of maturity and commitment and love is completely absent.

After finishing the book, I believe it was likely the author's purpose to begin with the superficial, popular "mean girls" and turn the stereotype upside down--which she did accomplish.  I recommend Before I Fall for ages 15 and up.  

The Fault in Our Stars (John Green)

Summary of The Fault in our Stars (by John Green):

Sixteen year old Hazel is clinically depressed after three years of fighting off terminal cancer. The doctors have found a way to keep the cancer from spreading (for the time being), but she has limited lung capacity.  To help her deal with her illness and (hopefully) make friends, her parents bring her a weekly support group.  When charismatic and witty Augustus Waters begins to attend, Hazel finds a kindred spirit who not only understands her situation but is also her intellectual equal.  Through their relationship, Hazel begins to experience life more fully. 

Evaluation:

Insightful:  Author John Green has drawn authentic characters who offer insights not only in what it means to live and to fight off illness but also on what it means to be young, in love, and dealing with loss.  I loved the playful banter between the characters (especially Augustus and Hazel).  The often poetic way that a situation or idea is described is brilliant and wonderful.  I thoroughly enjoyed Green’s use of language and metaphor. 

Bold: The author does not belittle those with terminal illness, but he does not romanticize the fight of cancer patients either.  The characters themselves comment on the common stereotype of the “heroic” fighter.   They illustrate in their lives that even the “best” of people and fighters are not always graceful and brave. 

Irreverent:  Hazel has no idealistic notions of the world, God, or the afterlife.  She believes in a vague “universe” that she eventually concludes “wants to be noticed.”  Her attitude towards traditional religion and beliefs is impertinent.   While Augustus has a sense of wanting to make a difference in the world and of a “something” beyond, Hazel does not see the purpose.  She shames him for believing his position is more enlightened, and he caves.  Hazel is content to just be part of her small circle, eventually dying and being forgotten.  While this aspect of the novel is realistic and reflective of many people’s beliefs, I found it disappointing and depressing.

Raw:  Green reveals the harsh reality and difficult setbacks of his characters.  The characters get angry, yell, and, even, break things. They occasionally use raw language and profanities.  Parents sometimes showed their weakness in dealing with their sick children.  Some of the more heart-wrenching moments are when Hazel is desperate to find out what happened to the mother in her favorite novel (An Imperial Affliction), and her fears on what will happened to her parents (especially her mother) after her death. 

Overall, I genuine enjoy The Fault of our Stars.  I cried.  I laughed.  I smiled (especially when Augustus was “in the picture”).  I recommend this book for ages 14 and up. 

Delirium (by Lauren Oliver)

Summary of Delirium (by Lauren Oliver):

Lena Haloway is content in the government-managed society she lives in.   The reality that everything is neatly laid out for her—career, husband, life—makes her look forward to her “cure” and the future.   Despite the tragedy of her mother’s suicide and the whispers of the “invalid” community, Lena believes the government knows what is best for its people.   As she dabbles in investigating the forbidden parts of society, she begins to realize the government and the cure are not really about her best interests.  Instead, she will seal for herself a future that is grey and dreary—if she submits.   Lena realizes it is better to love and to live—even if it means feelings of pain and loss.  She must make an important, and possibility dangerous, decision before it is too late. 

Evaluation:

I have seen the Delirium series and Lauren Oliver on many favorites’ lists.  I took the plunge and began reading Delirium at the beginning of the week…I could not put it down.  I was enraptured in the plot immediately!  Ms. Oliver’s language is often poetic.  Her storytelling keeps a steady pace, each new event driving me to find out what will happen to Lena, Hana (her best friend), and Alex (her first love). 

The characterization is well done.  One of my favorite parts is the relationship between Lena and Hana.  There is an innocence in their friendship as they savor the last days of their youth and life with emotions.  They are fiercely loyal and devoted to each other.  Lena starts off as an obedient, though internally conflicted, protagonist.  As the story progresses, she grows bold, confident, and independent—willing to risk everything for truth, freedom, and love.  Alex is protective, loving, and strong.  They appear to be a good, healthy match.    

Since they are living in an oppressive society, it is natural to cheer them on as they defy social and government expectations.  On the other hand, I always feel a sense of conflict as teens’ rebel in novels.  I realize a certain amount of stepping out from parents is healthy and necessary, but I don’t believe it has to be under of cloud of deception and rebellion.  Lena lies and sneaks around a lot--though it is understandable to a degree in her extremely rigid society because there is no other recourse, ever.  I hope young adult readers will not view their own seemingly “oppressive” lives as an excuse to do the same.  This story (like other dystopian novels) should be a cautionary tale of allowing the government too much control over our lives.  Hopefully, it will prod young people to seek out representatives that fight for individual autonomy rather than government control--no matter how enticing the freebies may seem.

There are, also, a handful of profanities and some mild sexual content.  For instance, a scene is briefly described where Alex gazes at Lena with no shirt on.  They also have a night alone sleeping together.  Lena does not feel ready for sex. Alex respects her decision with grace.  Of course, there are many references to kissing.   

The novel prompted me to think about the age-old dilemma of emotion vs. reason.   I think we are so drawn to emotions as humans because they, along with their cohorts passion and  love, are not something we can readily control.  Sometimes we don't want to.  Other times we want or need to, but feel we cannot.  This situation could spur a lively discussion on the role of passion and emotions as well as reason and control in our lives.

Overall, I genuinely enjoyed this dystopian novel.  I have the next one, Pandemonium, on reserve.  I look forward to reading the other books in the series.  I recommend Delirium for ages 14 and up.  

Fairiest (by Gail Carson Levine)

Summary of Fairiest (by Gail Carson Levine):

As an infant, Aza is abandoned at an inn.  Fortunately, the inn keeper and his wife adopt and love her.  Growing up, she is often berated and rudely stared at by guests because of her awkward and unseemly looks.  Aza’s voice, though, is a rare and wonderful beauty, even in a kingdom of singers.  When she receives an opportunity to attend the king’s wedding as a companion to a duchess, her voice wins over Prince Ijory and the Queen Ivy—who makes Aza her lady in waiting.  The king is injured during the ceremonies, leaving the self-absorbed and demanding queen to rule.   Her jealousy and vanity prompt her to pressure Aza into a dishonest scheme.   Eventually, Aza is falsely accused and imprisoned.  She must flee for her life…hoping the queen believes she is dead and her family remains safe from the queen's vengeful ways. 

Evaluation:

Levine crafts her own contemporary and creative tale within the basic outline of the beloved Snow White fairy tale.  Like her earlier story Ella Enchanted, the narrative is full of mythical and fairy tale characters as well as thrilling adventures.  The author has imaginative twists on the typical story elements, such as the magic mirror, Aza’s benefactors during her banishment, and her enticement into eating the poisoned apple.

Unlike traditional fairy tales, the female protagonist is not limited to a pretty face and a sweet disposition.  Aza attracts people with her character and her voice.  She is sweet and obedient, but as the novel progresses, she becomes more independent and strong.  I like, for instance, that she escapes prison by her own devices and that she saves the guard from the ogres.  Aza is bullied and ridiculed, which has an impact on her confidence.  It also makes her character resilient and accessible. 

A unique feature of the narrative is the use of songs.  Music is a core element of the community, resulting in “sings” and singing to each other like a modern day musical.  I listened to this book on a CD version that put music to each song.  I was not crazy about the singing.  I found it a bit distracting and, even at times, annoying.  I think if I “read” this story instead, I would have scanned through the music so it would not be as off-putting.  Many will probably enjoy this aspect though. 

Fairiest will resonate with contemporary young girls because Aza is an average girl who uses her unique talents and positive character qualities to win over the prince, instead of her looks and sex appeal.  The book is filed in the young adult section at my library, but I believe middle grade audiences will enjoy it as well.  I recommend this modern retelling for ages 10 and up. 

For other great middle grade reads, please visit Shannon Messenger's Marvelous Middle Grade Monday round up.  

A Tale Dark and Grimm (by Adam Gidwitz)

Summary of A Tale Dark and Grimm (by Adam Gidwitz):

Hansel and Gretel are two of the most unlucky children.  This innovative work of fiction interweaves nine Grimm’s Brother tales into a single narrative about the unfortunate childhood.    The tale of Faithful Johannes gives the background for their parent’s courtship and the children’s cause for running away.  The next tales is the traditional story of them coming upon a cottage made of sweets.  As they eventually flee from there they go on other adventures and become part of several Grimm’s tales (most of which are lesser known).  After meeting the devil, battling a dragon, and facing a serial killer, Hansel and Gretel come to “under-stand” their parents and their motivations.   The children are finally able to reconcile with their parents and to take on their new role as rulers of the kingdom. 

Evaluation: 

The storytelling is brilliant.  Adam Gidwitz expertly crafts and intertwines the tales.  Additionally, he has created a narrator who adds humor and lightness to the story, which is much needed to temper the tone and content. 

The characterization is well-done.  He makes normally 2-dimensional fairy tale characters into to fully fledged, multi-dimensional protagonists.  Hansel and Gretel are both strong, wise, and resourceful.  They persevere through great obstacles and hardships.  The siblings are loyal and loving toward one another.  The one down-side on characterizations is that nearly all the adults fail the children.  They either attempt to hurt them in some way/act in a selfish way that prompts their affliction or they are unable to protect and care for them when they need it.  

I feel mixed about the violent content.  Ok. I get that the original tales are violent.  We live in a violent world.  Our entertainment is highly violent.  Children are probably far less sensitive to violence than I give them credit for.  It begs the question:  Does that make it right?  Good?   I have no problem with action violence, especially when there is minimal blood.   However, A Tale Dark and Grimm would be rated “R” if made into a movie.  There is torture in Hell that made me squirm.  A serial killer chops up his victim in front of Gretel and commands him mother to put the parts in a pot to cook.  Hansel is presumed dead and then skinned.  The parents cut their children’s heads off.  It makes me wonder if it is all too much for middle grade readers. 

As an adult, I appreciate this well-written and creative fractured fairy tale.  I am just not sure the violence content is optimal for youngsters.  I would recommend this book for ages 13 and up.  

The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian (by Sherman Alexie)

Brief Summary:

Arnold Spirit (nicknamed Junior) is a 14 year old Native American boy, living on the Spokane Reservation. He comes into the world with lots of disadvantages—beginning with fluid on this brain which prompted some physical issues.  His family (like most of the others on the reservation) is extremely poor.  Arnold  is a budding cartoonist and stellar student.   He attends an Indian school with outdated textbooks and poor resources.  A teacher urges him to pursue his education in the white community, which leads to complications and obstacles—such as getting to and from school each day (often he must walk miles), being further ostracized by his native community (including his only friend), and learning to fit in his new environment. Through it all, Arnold learns about himself, his culture, and his community (both his white school and his Indian homeland).

Evaluation:

Sherman Alexie has created an amazing voice in Arnold.  I was immediately sucked into his story and his world.  First, I was intrigued by his early life and, then, the story of his dog just got me!  I could not put this book down!  I really felt for Arnold.  He is bullied.  He is poor.  He is largely alone.  Despite all of it, his spirit overcomes even as he deals with personal challenges, family difficulties, and tragic loss.  His depiction of Native Americans is raw but moving. 

Another dimension to the narrative is Arnold’s drawings, which are a creative and emotional outlet for him.  They often reveal further insights into his world and his feelings.   The cartoons also epitomize his character.  Sometimes they are funny.  Other times touching, revealing his tender heart.  They are always honest and entertaining. 

Several complex issues are dealt with, such as alcoholism, poverty, bullying,  and death.  With those awful and often heartbreaking matters, there is always a sense of hope and humor. A couple controversial issues may turn some people off.  There is some occasional profanity.  The biggest concern for many will be the references to physical arousal and self-pleasuring.  They are not graphic and only sporadic.  I would have preferred them not to be a part of the narrative, but I guess it is not entirely out of place since they are facts of life and reflective of the age of the protagonist. 

Despite a handful of unpleasant words and references, I highly recommend The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian for mature audiences (15 and up).  The story prompts insight and compassion.   You will not soon forget Arnold or his friends and family members.