tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2878795871800241962023-11-15T22:33:42.474-08:00Literary LazaretteDavid Brown. LIBR 265-02. Prof. Wrenn-Estes. Database Project.
Spring 2010. San Jose State UniversityThe Love Prawnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000894404062972132noreply@blogger.comBlogger51125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-287879587180024196.post-72292061960625727342010-05-16T22:08:00.000-07:002010-05-16T22:50:02.608-07:00Alphabetical IndexBelow is an Alphabetical list of all the titles in my blog. They are searchable in the search engine located in the left column. I tried to present a variety of resources for teens in this project. This blog includes: manga, graphic novels, poetry, SAT Prep materials, college prep materials, movies, art books, sports books, video games, database/websites, magazines, and books in several genres. Happy Reading! <br /><br />36. A Maze Me Poems for Girls<br />40. The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-time Indian<br />34. Amiri & Odette<br />50. Anansi Boys<br />19. Around the World in Eighty Days<br />14. Been There Should've Done That<br />28. Big Brain Academy Wii Degree<br />33. The Block<br />38. Boy Meets Boy<br />37. The Breakfast Club<br />44. Capt. Hook<br />49. Catcher in the Rye<br />15. Confessions of a High School Word Nerd<br />17. The Essential Tomb of Dracula<br />26. Excite Bike<br />39. Ghost World<br />20. The Good Neighbors<br />11. How to Draw Noir Comics<br />42. The Hunger Games<br />8. Kick Ass<br />48. Little Brother<br />22. Mad Magazine<br />12. Make Barrettes and More<br />9. My College Tips<br />43. Nick and Nora's Infinite Playlist<br />24. Nintendo Power<br />10. On The Rocks Teens and Alcohol<br />31. Parrotfish<br />4. Paul in The Country<br />32. A Poem of Her Own<br />18. The Prestige <br />3. The Prince of Tennis<br />25. Punch-Out!!<br />23. Seventeen Magazine<br />13. The Skateboarding Field Manual<br />6. Solano Teens<br />1. South Park Guide to Life<br />5. Student Research Center<br />46. The Tale of One Bad Rat<br />47. Tithe<br />27. Super Mario Brothers 3<br />21. Valiant<br />45. Viminarama<br />41. The Virgin Suicides<br />2. WE 3<br />7. Weird Science<br />29. Wii Sports<br />16. Wolf Rider<br />30. Word Freak<br />35. A Wreath for Emmett TillThe Love Prawnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000894404062972132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-287879587180024196.post-39179195464072589422010-05-15T15:23:00.000-07:002010-05-16T22:59:01.391-07:001. South Park Guide to Life<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9xWDCNKg1qFlld2lRmHEBEToEb0t_M54Ibh44qSfdx9cuNtChAqF6CHid15MIbYDi56EnGz48uJC36tQktbI7rlkamWgLTqV8NLEPW2aQukyWhViNucQJPXsRYPFBnEp1QvaOPh1DSpg/s1600/South+park.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 195px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9xWDCNKg1qFlld2lRmHEBEToEb0t_M54Ibh44qSfdx9cuNtChAqF6CHid15MIbYDi56EnGz48uJC36tQktbI7rlkamWgLTqV8NLEPW2aQukyWhViNucQJPXsRYPFBnEp1QvaOPh1DSpg/s200/South+park.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5471626342402977986" /></a><br /><br /><br />Parker, Trey, & Stone, Matt. South Park Guide to Life. ISBN: 978-0762435708. Running Press. First Edition, 2009.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Overview</span><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">South Park Guide to Life</span> is a comedic book of quotes and scenes from the South Park Television series that presents life lessons for readers through a series of different satiric sections. These sections include lessons on: money, friendship, cultural acceptance, American life, religion, school, drugs, and sex. The book's 144 total pages contain vibrant still images, captured from the television series, that depict the characters engaged in the actions and situations described in the visible quotes. These quotes are presented in large easy to read fonts that are set against solid colored text boxes. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Critical Evaluation</span><br />If you don't read <span style="font-style:italic;">South Park Guide to Life</span> figure skater Brian Boitano will kick your ass, or at least that's what he claims in the book's introduction. For fans of the crude and clever humor of the <span style="font-style:italic;">South Park </span>television series, this illustrated coffee table book will be a for sure hit. The guide explores all the important life lessons learned from show episodes, on topics ranging from friendship, religion, money, sex, politics, and even cultural acceptance. The book is divided into separate sections for the different topics discussed and uses still images and quotes from <span style="font-style:italic;">South Park </span>episodes to evoke humor from the printed page. Even if you are not a fan of the show's messages or themes, each page is insightful, honest, and says the kinds of things that most people would never dream of letting slip through their lips. <br /><br />At times, the book feels like it delves into the American condition in similar way to the <span style="font-style:italic;">Peanuts </span>comics created by Charles Schulz, only with more profanity. When the South Park kids want to change their look, a goth kid says to them, "If you want to be one of the non-conformists, all you have to do is dress just likes us and listen to the same music we do." Trey Parker and Matt stone comment on the realities of American life and subculture in a way that sheds light on the humorous values and standards we have as a society. In the section that discusses American life, the character Uncle Jimbo says, "Everything's legal in Mexico, it's the American way!" The critical and satirical view of the world by characters in Parker and Stone's<span style="font-style:italic;"> South Park</span> is innovative, and groundbreaking. They don't limit their comedic attacks on a specific group or political party, instead they show their viewers the hypocritical nature of life in general. This book combines some of the most important lessons to be learned from the show, and while the messages are funny, they are substantial. South Park isn't a brainless show, and this book proves that it makes viewers think about life a little differently. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reader's Annotation</span><br />To many viewers the television series <span style="font-style:italic;">South Park</span> is nothing more than a crude cartoon filled with foul language and senseless violence, but for others it is a show filled with insightful life lessons. In the humor title, <span style="font-style:italic;">South Park Guide To Life</span>, creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone have compiled together some of <span style="font-style:italic;">South Park's</span> most important life lessons for fans of the show. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Author Information</span><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">South Park</span> co-creator Trey Parker is an accomplished animator, director, producer, musician, screen writer, and voice over artist. Parker grew up in the state of Colorado, and would later go to college for both music and film. While in college he produced the cult classic film <span style="font-style:italic;">Cannibal the Musical</span>, and also an animated short that would go on to inspire what is now <span style="font-style:italic;">South Park</span>. The hit animated series <span style="font-style:italic;">South Park</span> first aired in 1997 and is now in its 14th season. Parker has also worked on several movies, including: <span style="font-style:italic;">Orgazmo</span>, <span style="font-style:italic;">Team America World Police</span>, and <span style="font-style:italic;">Basketball</span>. Parker was nominated for an Academy Award in 2001 for his work on the film<span style="font-style:italic;">South Park, Bigger, Longer & Uncut</span>, and he has received four Emmy Awards for his work on the <span style="font-style:italic;">South Park</span> television series.<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">South Park </span>co-creator Matt Stone, is an American producer, musician and voice artist best known for his work on the <span style="font-style:italic;">South Park</span> television series. Stone grew up in Texas and moved to Colorado for college, where he majored in both mathematics and film. It was in film school that Stone would meet Trey Parker, whom he would become creative partners with for the rest of their film and television careers. Stone and Parker also perform in a rock band called <span style="font-style:italic;">DVDA</span>, whose music is used in many of their films. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Genre</span><br />humor, animation<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Curriculum Ties</span><br />satire, animation<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Book Talking Idea</span><br />Why are some important lessons that South Park has taught you?<br />Why do you think South Park is just as popular today as it was when it first aired in 1997?<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Reading Level</span><br />Grades 10+<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Challenge Issues</span><br />profanity, violence, sex, racism<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Challenge defense ideas:</span><br />1. Make sure you are familiar with your library collection and the book in question.<br />2. Be familiar with your library collection policy.<br />3. If possible, speak with the person challenging the material and make sure they feel comfortable. Ask the customer what they disliked or disapproved of in the resource. If they still insist on challenging the material give them instructions on how to file a formal complaint.<br />4. Research professional reviews that speak to the material's merit, and get input from teen readers on why they found the book important. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reason For Selection</span><br />I knew that I wanted to include a humor book that dealt with either <span style="font-style:italic;">The Simpsons</span>, <span style="font-style:italic;">Familiy Guy</span>, or <span style="font-style:italic;">South Park</span> because of the popularity of these shows amongst teen audiences. I can remember being an older teen and being drawn to the crude and offensive humor of Trey Parker and Matt Stone's <span style="font-style:italic;">South Park</span>. The show is just as edgy and popular today as when it first came out.The Love Prawnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000894404062972132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-287879587180024196.post-15885582100564409652010-05-14T19:59:00.000-07:002010-05-16T23:04:34.588-07:002. WE 3<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPedR4akhBCb28bZKRkc972qqW1z8IWGcvCoQdv537Mp1N3bLUgZPfVMoIqrlOtw2p3q_5lSUDwkQQceRPUBm2vc1_oem-u7TLmV3qFbVOt2MCd_PMB994HHlgV9Dkzbc2kL_NZb9Mpe4/s1600/we3.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 133px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPedR4akhBCb28bZKRkc972qqW1z8IWGcvCoQdv537Mp1N3bLUgZPfVMoIqrlOtw2p3q_5lSUDwkQQceRPUBm2vc1_oem-u7TLmV3qFbVOt2MCd_PMB994HHlgV9Dkzbc2kL_NZb9Mpe4/s200/we3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5471395956673005714" /></a><br /><br />Morrison, Grant. WE 3. ISBN: 978-1401204952. Vertigo. First Edition, 2005.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Plot Summary</span><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">WE 3</span> is a science fiction comic book series written for Vertigo comics by acclaimed writer Grant Morrison and illustrator Frank Quitely. WE 3 is the story of Roseanne Berry, a government employee working on a group of three prototype war killing machines. These prototypes are built around the bodies of three stolen pets. These pets include: a labrador named "Bandit" or "1"; a cat named "Tinker" or "2"; and a rabbit named "Pirate" or "3". Together they are WE 3. The government is planning to end manned warfare completely with the implementation of semi-intelligent animal soldiers who can be controlled with a remote control. The government began first with smaller animals like rats, and attached crude weapons like drills to their faces. Bandit, the dog, is equipped with heavy artillery like a small army tank. Tinker is a trained assassin-style killing machine and Pirate is a landmine specialist. <br /><br />When the government decides that they no longer have a use for WE 3, they decides that the animals must be destroyed. This news is too hard for Roseanne Berry, and so breaking the law, she lets them free. This doesn't sound so bad, but these animals are trained to kill anything that threatens them, and soon they go on a killing rampage against the cruel government that created them. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Critical Evaluation</span><br />After reading <span style="font-style:italic;">WE 3</span> it's hard to look at your pets the same way again. Morrison comments on themes of government power and animal cruelty in this vicious revenge story of animals who fight back against the men who've abused them. What makes this story so compelling, and ultimately so haunting, is that it feels very real. This science fiction take on modern warfare doesn't seem too far away. With all of the government testing done on chimps and other animals to study diseases, making an animal killing machine doesn't seem like that illogical of a step. By creating animal soldiers the lives of men would be saved, but at the cost of torturing innocent creatures. Morrison comments on this by humanizing the animal characters, allowing them to speak through surgically implanted technology in their brains. The animals can't say much, but readers learn that they just want to be together, to be safe, and to eat. Deep down under all of the metal and circuits, these animals are the same kinds of creatures that people take into their homes to become part of the family. Artist Frank Quietly cleverly comments on this fact at the beginning of each of the novel's three sections by including a poster for a missing animal. Each missing animal poster corresponds with the three animals in the story. This added element gives the story another touch of reality that will make it hit home for pet owners. <br /><br />With minimal text, much of the storytelling relies on the detailed art and digital coloring by artist Frank Quitely. Quitely's signature use of rough lines creates a gritty look for the landscape a cruel men. His bright use of colors gives the story a very urgent feeling as readers race through the countryside with the government military in pursuit. Quitely also presents readers with a variety of double spreads that are visually stand alone stunning pieces of art. The amalgamation of a talented writer and artist on this original story are what making it the innovative work of art that it is. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reader's Annotation</span><br />Sometimes when your dog is missing he's around the corner or at the pound, and sometimes he's been transformed into a genetically altered killing machine. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Author Information</span><br />Grant Morrison is a world renown writer in the comic book industry. Stylistically his work has been considered groundbreaking, anti-establishment in nature, counter-cultural, and always innovative. He is best known for his work on the graphic novel <span style="font-style:italic;">Batman Arkham Asylum </span>in collaboration with artist Dave McKean. Morrison is known for taking existing comic book character and teams and then reviving them in new and fascinating ways. For vertigo comics he took the superhero Animal Man and the team Doom Patrol and made them relevant for a new generation of readers. <br /><br />Morrison is also known for the visionary work on his original series, such as <span style="font-style:italic;">The Invisibles</span>, which details the activities of a time traveling group of revolutionaries as they battle the oppressive occult group the outer church. <span style="font-style:italic;">The Invisibles</span> series is believed to have inspired the ground breaking film <span style="font-style:italic;">The Matrix</span>. Morrison has also worked on successful runs of popular series like <span style="font-style:italic;">The X-men</span>, <span style="font-style:italic;">Justic League</span>, and <span style="font-style:italic;">The Fantastic Four</span>. Morrison is also the proud owner of two Eisner awards for his work on the 30 part series <span style="font-style:italic;">The Seven Soldiers of Victory</span>, and on his run of <span style="font-style:italic;">All Star Superman</span>. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Genre</span><br />graphic novel, science fiction<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Curriculum Ties</span><br />N/A<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Book Talking Idea</span><br />Do you think it is right to sacrifice animals for military testing?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reading Level</span><br />Grades 10+<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Challenge Issues</span><br />animal cruelty, violence, gore<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Challenge defense ideas:</span><br />1. Make sure you are familiar with your library collection and the book in question.<br />2. Be familiar with your library collection policy.<br />3. If possible, speak with the person challenging the material and make sure they feel comfortable. Ask the customer what they disliked or disapproved of in the resource. If they still insist on challenging the material give them instructions on how to file a formal complaint.<br />4. Research professional reviews that speak to the material's merit, and get input from teen readers on why they found the book important.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reason For Selection</span><br />I wanted to include a variety of graphic novels in my blog to showcase the range of different genres that are available for teen readers in the format. <span style="font-style:italic;">WE 3</span> is a haunting piece of science fiction that shows readers the cruel realities of animal testing. It's easy to let a company test on a rat or mouse, but when the test subjects are our pet dogs, cats, and rabbits new feelings are evoked.The Love Prawnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000894404062972132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-287879587180024196.post-63109898663416854862010-05-14T19:55:00.001-07:002010-05-16T23:13:00.558-07:003. The Prince of Tennis<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidC5j49-Ra3SqDw43LvdRNXbJ3X9WbcGe_CjhY75pbN7IfEqB-EDGXlLnV6lZ7jVgOXNJqVBPf7Z6tuOZ_AnpmpSHvNGBEhVgb_eC_pLr-mOBHyjvWfTs_txlfjb_tygglyEJu5sfHY6A/s1600/Prince+of+Tennis.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 131px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidC5j49-Ra3SqDw43LvdRNXbJ3X9WbcGe_CjhY75pbN7IfEqB-EDGXlLnV6lZ7jVgOXNJqVBPf7Z6tuOZ_AnpmpSHvNGBEhVgb_eC_pLr-mOBHyjvWfTs_txlfjb_tygglyEJu5sfHY6A/s200/Prince+of+Tennis.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5471629466664168930" /></a><br /><br />Konomi, Takeshi. Prince of Tennis Volume 1. ISBN: 978-1591164357. VIZ Media. First Edition, 2004.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Plot Summary</span><br />12 year old tennis phenomenon Ryoma Echizen has just moved back to Japan from America. His father was a former Japanese tennis star whose career was cut short because of an injury. Ryoma has already made a name for himself in America as a premier player, and now as he enters Seishun Gakuen Junior High School, he has to make a name for himself all over again. Making the 7th grade team is not going to be a problem, but if Ryoma wants to compete in tournament play, he has to find a way to make the 8th and 9th grade varsity squad. This is a problem because 7th graders are not allowed to compete for a place on varsity unless the captain allows it. <br /><br />Ryoma's natural talent and skill set pose a problem for him on the tennis court because the older players feel threatened. He quickly becomes the target of cruel pranks by those who feel threatened, but Ryoma has the last laugh because no matter the prank, he is able to keep his composure and let his tennis play do the talking. When the captain decides to let Ryoma compete for the squad, things heat up, and tempers fly. <br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Critical Evaluation</span><br />In the world of tennis, Ryoma Echizen is a true gunslinger. He is distant, calm, cool, collected, and at a moments notice he is ready to play. Takeshi Konomi's <span style="font-style:italic;">The Prince of Tennis</span> gives the sport of tennis an exaggerated sense of action and flair that make each page and each panel a thrill to read and watch. Ryoma is able to serve the ball with such speeds that a fireball almost seems to strike the ground as his serves go whizzing past opponents. The heightened exaggeration of action is what makes this title visually compelling. Each match and each challenge for Ryoma gives readers the sense that they are watching actual physical combat like they would see in a boxing match or martial arts event. This focus on physicality and the bravado that comes from success makes <span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="font-style:italic;">The Prince of Tennis </span></span>series a predominantly male targeted title. Teen girls may also take interest in <span style="font-style:italic;">The Prince of Tennis</span> because of the attractive athletes who romp around in skin tight shirts accompanied by uninhibited muscles. <br /><br />The dialogue at times seems forced and the simple storyline by no means qualifies <span style="font-style:italic;">The Prince of Tennis</span> into the realm of literary greatness, but the action isn't half bad, in fact, it is down right entertaining. This book and this series work because they are entertaining. <span style="font-style:italic;">The Prince of Tennis</span> is the equivalent of the summer popcorn film, you watch the alluring action, and before you know the movie is over and you weren't really sure what it was about to begin with. The title conveniently ends right when thing are about to get good so that teen readers will be hooked for the next volume. Tennis might not be the most popular sport in the world, but author Takeshi Konomi is on to something special. By taking a sport and intensifying the game play, he can attract both tennis and action fans. I only hope that he writes a croquet series next. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reader's Annotation</span><br />Tennis is a game of skill, stamina, strength, and endurance. For seventh grade tennis player Ryoma Echizen, mastering this skills at age 12 is not going to make life easy amongst the older tennis players at Seishun Gakuen Junior High School.<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Author Information</span><br />Takeshi Konomi is a Japanese mangaka, or cartoonist, best known for his work on <span style="font-style:italic;">The Prince of Tennis</span> manga series. <span style="font-style:italic;">The Prince of Tennis</span> began publication in 1999 and concluded in 2008 with over forty volumes. In Japan the 40 volume series has sold over 40 million copies. The popularity of this series has led to film adaptations, video games, radio shows, and even musicals in Japan. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Genre</span><br />manga, sports<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Curriculum Ties</span><br />physical education, tennis<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Book Talking Ideas</span><br />Why are the other players threatened by Ryoma?<br />Do you feel that sport of tennis is accurately represented in The Prince of Tennis?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reading Level</span><br />Grades 6+<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Challenge Issues</span><br />N/A<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reason For Selection</span><br />Manga is completely unknown territory for me. For years I've seen teens huddled together on Barnes and Noble book store floors reading the puzzling literature. For this blog assignment I wanted to explore materials that I was unfamiliar with and I knew that at some point I would be picking up my first manga title. Now when I see teens reading their books in the opposite direction and backwards I will no longer be in the dark.The Love Prawnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000894404062972132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-287879587180024196.post-42088103086091514512010-05-14T19:53:00.000-07:002010-05-16T23:27:20.327-07:004. Paul in the Country<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQQ-RLpmz5tGg0OFdaNkAFOgSLQW0u_W44Ew0PlcjfuLyuXNam7cmHjAdHWPSZTS6qLaET9LuUBVfcdk3_kLC6ooIQgrmrjEArE8IF0MTHvU0ABNnNhQjLiV0xAh6M5dGzzaagyexFURE/s1600/Paul.png"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 149px; height: 195px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQQ-RLpmz5tGg0OFdaNkAFOgSLQW0u_W44Ew0PlcjfuLyuXNam7cmHjAdHWPSZTS6qLaET9LuUBVfcdk3_kLC6ooIQgrmrjEArE8IF0MTHvU0ABNnNhQjLiV0xAh6M5dGzzaagyexFURE/s200/Paul.png" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5471625304614832130" /></a><br /><br />Rabagliati, Michel. Paul in the Country. ASIN: B001NA62LW. Drawn and Quarterly. First Edition, 2000.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Plot Summary</span><br />During the fall, Paul takes his wife and daughter Alice on a vacation to his father's cottage in the Canadian countryside. Along the way he notices how things have changed. The countryside has been exchanged for trendy housing developments, and his old escape is becoming a modernized mess. Paul reflects fondly on taking the same journey to the cabin as a kid. He remembers the sights, and the smells of his childhood and is saddened by the way his world is becoming smaller everyday. He remembers the tragedies and happiness experienced during his teen years and enjoys making new memories with his wife and daughter. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Critical Evaluation</span><br />Michel Rabgliati's reflection of his life in <span style="font-style:italic;">Paul in the Country</span>, is a refreshing piece of graphic storytelling and art. His comic strip style and use of bold curved lines give his panels a sense of innocence and softness that helps to reflect the gentle nature of his childhood memories. Paul, who is an almost alter ego of Rabgliati, walks through his memories as he makes new ones with his daughter. The almost seamless transition between past and present creates an alluring effect that invites readers into the very personal past of Paul's life. Rabgliati is able to convey his personal memories with tremendous humor through his illustrated characters and their exaggerated facial expressions. <br /><br />Readers can't help but find a part of themselves in Paul's story. The long car rides playing with siblings, the road trip songs, and crisp country air are universal to the family vacation experience. Paul's trip down memory lane will inspire for many readers their very own. <span style="font-style:italic;">Paul in the Country</span> is the perfect comic book for reluctant readers or those looking for something that doesn't involve a crime and a cape. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reader's Annotation</span><br />In the blink of an eye life changes and it will never be the same. Suddenly you're married, you have kids, and your old vacation getaway in the country is surrounded by modern amenities that attempt to tear down the fond memories of your past. <br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Author Information</span><br />Michel Rabagliati is a graphic designer and illustrator from Montreal, Canada. Growing up, Rabgliati was an active comic book reader and enjoyed French titles such as: <span style="font-style:italic;">Tintin</span>, <span style="font-style:italic;">Spirou</span>, <span style="font-style:italic;">Gaston</span>, and <span style="font-style:italic;">Asterix</span>. Rabgliati would spend hours on end recreating the characters from these comics and this practice would help to shape his design aesthetic. Starting his career as a graphic designer, he found success by publishing his illustrations in <span style="font-style:italic;">The Wall Street Journal</span>, <span style="font-style:italic;">The Chicago Tribune</span>, <span style="font-style:italic;">The Advocate</span>, and <span style="font-style:italic;">The National Post</span>. <br /><br />In 1990, Rabgliati was contacted to create a logo for comic book publishing company Drawn and Quaterly. This job reignited his passion for comics, and in the year 2000 his first comic book attempt, <span style="font-style:italic;">Paul in the Country</span>, was published by Drawn and Quaterly. The success of this title has inspired three further memoir editions that include: <span style="font-style:italic;">Paul Moves Out</span>, <span style="font-style:italic;">Paul Gets a Summer Job</span>, and <span style="font-style:italic;">Paul Goes Fishing</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Genre</span><br />graphic novel, memoir<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Curriculum Ties</span><br />N/A<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Book Talking Idea</span><br />How has life changed for Paul from the time Paul was a child?<br />Why do we find change upsetting as we get older?<br />Why do you think Paul is so distraught over killing a bird, but not when he caught ten fish?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reading Level</span><br />Grades 7+<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Challenge Issues</span><br />N/A<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Reason For Selection</span><br />I wanted to include a variety of graphic novels in my blog to showcase the range of different genres that are available for teen readers in the format. Until this assignment, I was really only familiar with superhero comics, but now I have discovered the diversity of genres and topics that exist outside the superhero realm.The Love Prawnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000894404062972132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-287879587180024196.post-74303823933236478202010-05-13T14:52:00.002-07:002010-05-16T23:35:22.320-07:005. Student Research Center<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1h4BleuOJb0xWft_DcYIOI072NAFm6YbNqAP9B7xMJa6B8I48f7-pZCtmGFN_Ri6zW2iGCKfMFsJ5LYOODT83otO9Cts87hLDpEAhh3-91XfCKfzDD3hA7AitctSygPsIZwG4cGSnh-U/s1600/Student+Research+Center.png"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 142px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1h4BleuOJb0xWft_DcYIOI072NAFm6YbNqAP9B7xMJa6B8I48f7-pZCtmGFN_Ri6zW2iGCKfMFsJ5LYOODT83otO9Cts87hLDpEAhh3-91XfCKfzDD3hA7AitctSygPsIZwG4cGSnh-U/s200/Student+Research+Center.png" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5471737327678257250" /></a><br /><br />EBSCOhost. (2010). Student Research Center. Retrieved from Solano County Library official website: http://solanolibrary.com/<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Critical Evaluation</span><br />The Student Research Center database, by EBSCO Publishing, is successful because it is user friendly. Graphically the web layout is very clean and streamlined, making navigation a simple point and click process. The use of hover effects on the navigable buttons and pull-down menus is an added bonus for the research beginner. The use of a muted purple color pallet creates a calming environment conducive to learning. The use of photographed teenage students engaged in the act of learning for clickable icons helps to create an environment welcoming of student users. <br /><br />The layout and user friendly navigation features are only the beginning of the praise that this site is entitled to. The incorporation of an online dictionary and encyclopedia make the Student Research Center a one stop learning destination. EBSCO streamlines student needs into a single entity that is able to search through a variety of sources and formats in order to deliver valuable full text articles. The site offers both basic and advanced search options, where students are able to use boolean operators and field specific search limiters. Students also have the option of customizing their Student Research Center experience by customizing their own preferences and also by having the option to save important documents and links in their personal site folder. <br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">The Colombia Encyclopedia</span> that is incorporated into the Student Research Center contains over 51,000 entries and cross references over 84,000 different navigable links. This Encyclopedia is updated daily, making it one of the most comprehensive online encyclopedia's ever produced. The site also features a spotlight topic that touches on important events related to the particular month, and a top searches bar that shows students around the world what topics are receiving the most online traffic. EBSCO takes the database one step further by incorporating a teacher option, that allows teachers to search for curriculum related resources. The wealth of information in this database and the simple design make it a worthwhile tool for educating America's youth. <br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Reader's Annotation</span><br />When you need help with research or homework, the online Student Research Center by EBSCO is here to help. The online dictionary, encyclopedia, and full text search options make this database a student's best friend. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Company Information</span><br />The EBSCO Publishing company is a distributor of of full-text content through online databases for library systems around the globe. The software used to facilitate the EBSCO online databases is known as EBSCOhost. EBSCOhost is used to power the Student Research Center database used at the Solano County Public Library. EBSCO databases are some of the most used databases in the world and it is estimated that there are currently over a million active users. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Database Type</span><br />online student database<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Curriculum Ties</span><br />school curriculum<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Book Talking Ideas</span><br />Who out there has a research paper due?<br />Did you know that the library subscribes to a database just for students?<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Reading Level</span><br />Grades 6+<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Challenge Issues</span><br />N/A<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reason For Selection</span><br />I wanted to include at least one online database for teens in my blog. The Solano County Public Library system subscribes to a wealth of databases on different topics and subjects. The Student Research Center database seemed to be the most applicable for our 15-18 year old age group, and after testing it, there are many positive ways that it can help teens in my community.The Love Prawnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000894404062972132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-287879587180024196.post-51952701641157820232010-05-13T14:52:00.001-07:002010-05-16T23:39:27.147-07:006. Solano Teens<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX0nAQp__3q-gjM8OluP6AvDFFM955tpvOhzHlPJIjDYV1EYZNg6Z5LQat3elCqnLPbSpW-o6xLAvx-h3orpqCGL9rDNCsYVPCqlfgeCCzrOaSkQGPG-q5JfG-CQxClIOeoW2KepNI16E/s1600/Picture+1.png"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 147px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX0nAQp__3q-gjM8OluP6AvDFFM955tpvOhzHlPJIjDYV1EYZNg6Z5LQat3elCqnLPbSpW-o6xLAvx-h3orpqCGL9rDNCsYVPCqlfgeCCzrOaSkQGPG-q5JfG-CQxClIOeoW2KepNI16E/s200/Picture+1.png" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5471738224056336690" /></a><br /><br />Solano County Library. (2010). Solano Teens. Retrieved from the Solano County Library official website: http://solanolibrary.com/teens/<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Critical Evaluation</span><br />The <span style="font-style:italic;">Solano Teens</span> webpage is a great one stop resource for teens living in Solano County for both their information and recreation needs. The site offers links to library social networking opportunities on Myspace and the <span style="font-style:italic;">Solano Teens</span> blog, as well as an opportunity to become active contributors to the library's online content. Along with serving as an information resource for teen materials, the<span style="font-style:italic;"> Solano Teens</span> page acts as an interactive bulletin board for teen news and events in the community. Teens can use the site as a means to find out what teen events and services are happening on any particular day, and while they are browsing they can also look at newly listed teen titles, check the teen generated blog for new entries, and download a printable pdf file of the <span style="font-style:italic;">Solano Teens Magazine</span>. <br /><br />Visually, the site is composed in a way that balances the amount of information presented with an aesthetic sensibility that achieves a sense of balance. Even though the web page is filled with information in almost every inch of visible screen space, it never feels overwhelming or cluttered. The site is extremely easy to navigate, and for teens already familiar with the Solano Library homepage, the teen page will be a walk in the park. One of the greatest benefits of using the Solano Teens page is that it advertises the Live Homework help feature very well with a large and attractive looking icon that screams to be clicked. Teens who frequent the Solano Teens web page can't help but be tempted to click on the alluring button. By incorporating social networking tools, updated links, and an effective layout, the <span style="font-style:italic;">Solano Teens</span> website gets the job done. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reader's Annotation</span><br />The Solano County Library's <span style="font-style:italic;">Solano Teens </span>website takes library services for teens into the digital world. <br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Library Information</span><br />The John F. Kennedy Public Library in Vallejo, California is part of the Solano County Public Library System in Northern California. John F. Kennedy, owned by the city of Vallejo, first opened its doors to the public in 1970 and has developed into a three story building spanning over 47, 000 square feet. The current population the library serves is 116,760 people, with 11,000 ranging in the 12-18 year old age group. The library’s collection of materials spans over 140,000, with a great number of these materials serving the teens and children in the community. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Genre</span><br />website<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Curriculum Ties</span><br />homework help <br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Book Talking Ideas</span><br />What do you feel constitutes "Chick Lit", and why do you think the genre is important in our library? (There is currently a "Chick Lit" contest going on in the summer that is mentioned on the <span style="font-style:italic;">Solano Teens</span> homepage) <br />If you were going to start a blog, what would it be about?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reading Level</span><br />Grades 6+<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Challenge Issues</span><br />N/A<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Reason For Selection</span><br />Becoming familiar with library websites dedicated for teen use is essential for future librarians serving teens. By studying what works and what doesn't work on existing websites, we will be better prepared to help construct the websites of the future.The Love Prawnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000894404062972132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-287879587180024196.post-28862792361243927282010-05-13T14:40:00.000-07:002010-05-16T23:44:33.631-07:007. Weird Science<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTS2MKbSoASUu1Ey6h4QLk142RYrp24oIuIqETVh1s7XvYoXBOyfZWS-P8lMz_H8DvpwdYXa9L0kszLnVC_8qUVsZNxKeNTyJZ0JHxD34b4bXrpwWUacu7xGBO3NgwLQwhoyttfI1CSO0/s1600/Weird+Science.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 128px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTS2MKbSoASUu1Ey6h4QLk142RYrp24oIuIqETVh1s7XvYoXBOyfZWS-P8lMz_H8DvpwdYXa9L0kszLnVC_8qUVsZNxKeNTyJZ0JHxD34b4bXrpwWUacu7xGBO3NgwLQwhoyttfI1CSO0/s200/Weird+Science.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5470873407990775474" /></a><br />Weird Science. Directed by John Hughes. 94 min. DVD Universal Studios. 1984, ASIN: B00008438V.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Plot Summary</span><br />Teenagers Gary and Wyatt are two socially awkward nerds who attend Shermer High School where they are constantly the victims of cruel pranks by class jerks Ian and Max. Wyatt and Gary want nothing more than to have girlfriends of their own, and since the girls at Shermer wont show them the time of day, they decide to make a girl of their own with a little help from Wyatt's state of the art computer. By hacking into the government's computer system, they are able to turn their lofty dreams of a created girlfriend into living breathing reality. They name their created beauty Lisa and she is everything they ever hoped to have in a woman. She has supermodel good looks, the mind of Albert Einstein, and can use magic like a fairy godmother. Lisa is completely devoted to her creators, and she uses her charming abilities to turn Gary and Wyatt from the nerds they are, into the coolest guys in school. With Lisa's help, Gary and Wyatt might actually loosen up and become the kind of guys that high school girls actually want to date. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Critical Evaluation</span><br />Critically evaluating a film as insane and wacky as <span style="font-style:italic;">Weird Science</span> is a daunting task. Regardless of the film's merit, <span style="font-style:italic;">Weird Science</span> is embedded into popular American culture whether we like it or not. The film is loosely adapted from the cult EC comics series of the same name, and the theme song by Oingo Boingo is a must have for 80's themed parties and nightclubs. John Hughes takes his comedic style and brings it to another level, by incorporating bizarre fantasy elements like an alien motorcycle gang, and a giant talking pile of feces. Out of this world elements like these give the film a definite unusual flair, and provide a world of humor through awkward situations. Actors Anthony Michael Hall and Ian Mitchell smith standout in their roles as Gary and Wyatt. Their deliverance of the entertaining dialogue is constantly on point, and their subtle quirks, whiny voices, and cartoon-like facial expressions make them right at home in Hughes zany landscape of Shermer High. <br /><br />As a comedy, <span style="font-style:italic;">Weird Science </span>delivers. Teenage boys are likely to remember the memorable Lisa for as long as they have a computer and a pulse. Don't go into this film expecting any real substance, but expect to laugh, gasp, and have a great time. For fans of comedy and science fiction this film has a definite place in library collections. The violence and sex depicted in this comedy may be a problem for some viewers, but for others it adds to the film's comical depiction of sensationalized high school life. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reader's Annotation</span><br />For teenage nerds Gary and Wyatt getting a date is a nearly impossible task and getting a girlfriend is completely out of the question. When faced with girl problems they do what any other nerd would do, make the perfect one for themselves. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Director Information</span><br />John Hughes was an American film director, writer, and producer who worked primarily on comedies and films for teens, until his death in 2009. He started his career selling jokes and working for <span style="font-style:italic;">National Lampoon Magazine</span>, until he found success with his second script for the film<span style="font-style:italic;"> National Lampoon's Vacation</span>. His directorial debut didn't come until 1984 with the release of the film <span style="font-style:italic;">Sixteen Candles</span>. This film about high school life would inspire other Hughes' films like <span style="font-style:italic;">Weird Science</span>, <span style="font-style:italic;">Ferris Bueler's Day off</span>, and <span style="font-style:italic;">The Breakfast Club</span>. Hughes enjoyed working on films for teens and is known for saying, "I don't think of kids as a lower form of the human species." Hughes contribution to the film industry was recognized during an Oscar tribute during the 2010 Academy Awards.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Genre</span><br />Comedy<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Curriculum Ties</span><br />N/A<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Book Talking Ideas</span><br />What would you do if you had your own personal Lisa?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Rating</span><br />R, 17+<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Challenge Issues</span><br />profanity, sex, nudity, violence<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Challenge defense ideas:</span><br />1. Make sure you are familiar with your library collection and the film in question.<br />2. Be familiar with your library collection policy.<br />3. If possible, speak with the person challenging the material and make sure they feel comfortable. Ask the customer what they disliked or disapproved of in the resource. If they still insist on challenging the material give them instructions on how to file a formal complaint.<br />4. Research professional reviews that speak to the material's merit, and get input from teen readers on why they found the book important.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reason For Selection</span><br />I am a really big John Hughes fan and I recently had the opportunity to watch <span style="font-style:italic;">Weird Science</span> in a revival movie house. I had not seen the film in a very long time, and I was pleasantly surprised at just how wacky the film really is. By today's standards the film is pretty out there, but I feel that teens today will still get a kick out of the zany antics of main characters Wyatt and Gary.The Love Prawnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000894404062972132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-287879587180024196.post-44185890126517528872010-05-13T14:24:00.000-07:002010-05-16T23:51:53.835-07:008. Kick Ass<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAYAYewIp1wfyQsWJW6i8j7fY8cR_GlIvpBS1EGErM07Cl4ZoklUplRLDpHmfY5orUrmT8ZlBGSznbc8NNFk55K4T0hX_YBd5Tb6XxLtGr3wnucAnGhSe7A7Iravc0tJIfWPxPRI7uTI8/s1600/Kick+Ass.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 135px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAYAYewIp1wfyQsWJW6i8j7fY8cR_GlIvpBS1EGErM07Cl4ZoklUplRLDpHmfY5orUrmT8ZlBGSznbc8NNFk55K4T0hX_YBd5Tb6XxLtGr3wnucAnGhSe7A7Iravc0tJIfWPxPRI7uTI8/s200/Kick+Ass.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5470870120674324034" /></a><br /><br />Kick Ass. Directed by Matthew Vaughn. 117 min. Marv Films. 2010. <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Plot Summary</span><br />Dave Lizewski is a comic book nerd and average in every way that a high school teenager can be average. His muscles are nonexistent, and aside from hanging out with his only two friends, he spends the majority of his time alone on the internet. Tired of being average, and tired of the unfair way that innocent and decent people are treated at the mercy of thugs and criminals, Dave decides to make a difference. By putting on a green scuba diving outfit and ski mask, Dave becomes his super hero alter ego Kick Ass. Kick ass becomes an internet sensation when a group of teenagers film him trying to stop a gang from jumping a man outside of a convenience store. Kick ass becomes an internet and news sensation and this makes him the target of crime bosses throughout the city, and also those looking to overthrow those same bosses. Kick ass becomes mixed up the comic book world that he only used to read about, and he discovers that being a super hero is more painful than he could have possibly imagined. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Critical Evaluation</span><br />Why hasn't there ever been a real superhero? With all the comic books, and movies, and fans of Batman, why hasn't somebody put on a mask and cape with the intentions of fighting crime? Truer words have never been spoken. This idea is explored in the film adaptation of the cult comic book smash <span style="font-style:italic;">Kick Ass</span> by Mark Millar. Kick Ass follows the heroic pursuits of an average high school student named Dave Lizewski. Dave isn't a jock, or the funny guy, he's just a skinny kid who's tired of seeing the world abused by criminals and low lifes. After Dave is robbed by neighborhood thugs, he decides to become a super hero, only problem is Dave doesn't have any super powers. The lack of super powers never stopped Batman, and soon Dave constructs a costume, starts training with baton weapons, and sets out to start his double life as the hero kick Ass. Kick Ass' first encounter with real criminals happens outside of a convenience store when a group of men team up to jump a guy. Teenage onlookers watch in shock as Kick Ass proceeds to fight the gang of criminals even though he is repeatedly pummeled. The teen onlookers video tape the event, put the video online, and over night the news of a real super hero spreads like wildfire, and the Kick Ass legacy is born. <br /><br />At first the fame is great, but Kick Ass soon discovers that with great power comes great responsibility. Local crime bosses want him dead, and real heroes Big Daddy and Hit Girl want him on their side. Kick Ass is in over his head, and the film's humor is evoked in each awkward moment. A great unexpected twist comes when Kick Ass receives a kind of super power when he is jumped, stabbed, and hit by a car. After receiving hundreds of pins and plates, his body becomes stronger, and now he has the advantage of extensive nerve damage, making his body numb to all pain. Kick Ass can now literally get his ass kicked and not feel a thing. This comes in handy when he gets involved in the affairs of crime boss Frank D'Amico, and his son turned super hero Red Mist. <br /><br />Director Matthew Vaughn details the exploits of Kick Ass in a sensationalized violent romp of blood, batons, and heavy fire arms. For fans of violent action films that aren't afraid to turn the camera, <span style="font-style:italic;">Kick Ass </span>delivers in a way that will have the film on repeat in dorm rooms and high school hangouts across America. The characters are hilarious, the script is well written, and the film does a wonderful job of paying homage to comic book culture. The excessive violence and foul language will be a turn off for many viewers, especially because some of the most offensive scenes involve the very young Hit Girl. Hit girl uses guns and knives like any other girl her age might play with dolls. She kills and curses without mercy, while shocking and delighting audiences simultaneously. This film is not suitable for teens under the age of seventeen because of the R rating given by the Motion Picture Association of America. This rating will not be a deterrent for teen fans of action, comedy, and superhero films. <span style="font-style:italic;">Kick Ass</span> has the potential of becoming the next <span style="font-style:italic;">Super Bad</span>. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reader's Annotation</span><br />Dave Lizewski flies under the radar at his high school. He isn't a jock, or the funny guy, but that all changes when Dave decides to become a superhero. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Director Information</span><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Kick Ass</span> director Matthew Vaughn is an English producer and director best known for producing popular Guy Ritchie films <span style="font-style:italic;">Snatch</span> and <span style="font-style:italic;">Lock Stock and Two Smoking Barrels</span>. Vaughn started his career as a director's assistant and worked his way through the ranks until he began working as a producer. <br /><br />Vaughn's directorial debut would not come until 2004 with his work on the film <span style="font-style:italic;">Layer Cake</span>. The success of <span style="font-style:italic;">Layer Cake</span> helped Vaughn get the job for his next film<span style="font-style:italic;"> X-Men: The Last Stand</span>. The success of this super hero film made Vaughn a hot director for the super hero genre, leading to his role as director on the film <span style="font-style:italic;">Kick Ass</span>. Vaughn is scheduled to direct the films<span style="font-style:italic;"> X-Men first class</span>, and <span style="font-style:italic;">Kick Ass 2</span>, which are currently in pre-production. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Genre</span><br />superhero, action, comedy<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Curriculum Ties</span><br />N/A<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Book Talking Ideas</span><br />Do you think it's possible for a super hero to exist today?<br />What are some of the challenges that a real super hero would face?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Challenge Issues</span><br />violence, language, nudity<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Challenge defense ideas:</span><br />1. Make sure you are familiar with your library collection and the film in question.<br />2. Be familiar with your library collection policy.<br />3. If possible, speak with the person challenging the material and make sure they feel comfortable. Ask the customer what they disliked or disapproved of in the resource. If they still insist on challenging the material give them instructions on how to file a formal complaint.<br />4. Research professional reviews that speak to the material's merit, and get input from teen readers on why they found the book important.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reason For Selection</span><br />I wanted to include a film that was currently in theaters for the assignment as a means to see what films were being marketed for teen audiences. When I went to the movies <span style="font-style:italic;">Kick Ass</span> seemed to fit the bill. The main character Kick Ass is a high school teen who decides to become a superhero. This sounded like something that I would have wanted to watch as a teen, and upon finding a seat, I found that I was surrounded by other teens as well.The Love Prawnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000894404062972132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-287879587180024196.post-46759393125993532512010-05-13T14:06:00.000-07:002010-05-16T21:20:11.114-07:009. My College Tips<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJshvw-P3IpR4jl-abhlZZqEoRLn8_E1PcCXS7L_S915f11wvc3tmwioWDIXm4ydhska-zzZurRwBCgdDUfqsMyizRFsf8PV4aGKt7j01PHP_eMwZJpCojiSBmJuWrRibrk4dz0ehi5no/s1600/Picture+1.png"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 128px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJshvw-P3IpR4jl-abhlZZqEoRLn8_E1PcCXS7L_S915f11wvc3tmwioWDIXm4ydhska-zzZurRwBCgdDUfqsMyizRFsf8PV4aGKt7j01PHP_eMwZJpCojiSBmJuWrRibrk4dz0ehi5no/s200/Picture+1.png" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5470866444877147282" /></a><br /><br />Parker, James. My College Tips. ISBN: 0-9705214-5-6. Walden House. First Edition, 2000.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Critical Evaluation</span><br />James Parker has a successful career in the computer science industry, but that wasn't always the case. It was a long road for Parker to get to where he is today, and along the way he learned a thing or two about being a successful college student. Parker took the long road through college, taking eight years to finish his undergraduate degree. He has taken this experience and channeled it into a no nonsense guide for potential college students. Parker doesn't pat teens on the back in this book and tell them that everything is going to be all right, he presents the harsh realities of bad decisions, but also provides encouragement by reinforcing the idea to keep trying.<br /><br />Parker encourages students to balance career choices with potential salaries, and to find a balance between money and happiness. Parker gives the kind of advice that college counselors and school officials wont give. Several sections in <span style="font-style:italic;">My College Tips </span> give students hard advice, like deferring tuition payments, not taking your advisor's advice, and petitioning your grade if you think you deserve a higher mark. Parker also offers creative advice on ways to make money during college by starting your own business. He encourages students to babysit, start a lawn service, sell art, and build websites. Another interesting aspect of this book is that Parker gives advice on how to find that special someone. He gives dating advice for both men and women, and even offers advice on how to lose that 15 pounds before spring break. The book is graphically dull, incorporating tacky clip art and minimal design elements, which is a shame, because the humor presented in Parker's writing could have been highlighted with proper illustrations and graphics. Overall, this book will give students the hard facts that other college advice books lack, but at the cost of looking boring and unattractive. <br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Reader's Annotation</span><br />College can be a tough road if you don't know what you're doing. For students nervous about making the wrong college decisions, author and long time student James Parker, is here to make life a little easier with his advice book<span style="font-style:italic;"> My College Tips</span>. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Author Information</span><br />James Parker is what you might call a professional student. In his undergrad career he attended five different colleges, changed his major several times, and finally graduated after 8 years of continuous education. After receiving his B.S. in computer science from the University of Tennessee Chattanooga, Parker went on to pursue his masters degree in the same field. <br /><br />Parker has always considered himself to have a creative business mind, and in pursuing his computer science degrees he also minored in entrepreneurship. His entrepreneur spirit is what led him to pursue publishing his college advice book <span style="font-style:italic;">My College Tips</span>. Parker currently works as a project manager for technology company The Tennessee Base Authority<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Genre</span><br />nonfiction, college prep<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Curriculum Ties</span><br />college prep<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Book Talking Ideas</span><br />What mistakes did the author of this book make that you hope to avoid?<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Reading Level</span><br />Grades 7+<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Challenge Issues</span><br />N/A<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Reason For Selection</span><br />I wanted to include a couple of books on college advice for teens in my blog because not only are they relevant for teens, but also for myself as a college student. I liked the idea of Parker's <span style="font-style:italic;">My College Tips</span> because it is written from the perspective of an unsuccessful student who made all the wrong decisions. Parker attended 5 different colleges before he graduating with his undergraduate degree. A veteran student like Parker is a great resource for teenage readers.The Love Prawnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000894404062972132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-287879587180024196.post-13694304080039320822010-05-13T14:02:00.000-07:002010-05-17T00:38:39.577-07:0010. On The Rocks Teens and Alcohol<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEIkO6SxUvzf-m_l36F01XqNkVk31mxNAAKz3FOB_sQk9mZ2YoHpl6Gs9lsrX6ETqDKJUpwR5AXUhDzl5FrvDbeKcOO8QScyrefPb4fydO0prHOU61Yy6SqNxkX-EtFmWMgN1ivIIAAj8/s1600/Teens+Alcohol.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 122px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEIkO6SxUvzf-m_l36F01XqNkVk31mxNAAKz3FOB_sQk9mZ2YoHpl6Gs9lsrX6ETqDKJUpwR5AXUhDzl5FrvDbeKcOO8QScyrefPb4fydO0prHOU61Yy6SqNxkX-EtFmWMgN1ivIIAAj8/s200/Teens+Alcohol.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5470863774232825986" /></a><br /><br />Arletha, David. On The Rocks Teens and Alcohol. ISBN: 978-0531179765. Children's Press. First Edition, 2007.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Critical Evaluation</span><br />Author David Aretha's non fiction title <span style="font-style:italic;">On The Rocks </span>explores the terrible problem of alcohol abuse by American teenagers. Aretha explores the topic of alcohol abuse by giving readers a complete overview of the subject. He begins <span style="font-style:italic;">On The Rocks </span> by detailing the early history of alcohol in America and proceeds to discuss the problems that it poses for teenagers and society today. This useful teen resource is divided into six chapters which discuss relevant topics, including: youth alcoholism, binge drinking, drinking and society, and support groups and treatment options. Aretha explores these topics through the use of sobering statistics, quotes from teenage substance abusers, and brief informative passages in each chapter. The statistics presented are often shocking, for example, 40% of all traffic related deaths are the result of alcohol use. Alcohol abuse in America is not a new phenomena, by the year 1800 there were already over 2,000 breweries in America. Statistics like these help to open the eyes of teen readers as to the history and severity of substance abuse in our country. <br /><br />Aretha also helps to define specific alcohol abuse terminology for teen readers by using a larger and more bold font to highlight specific vocabulary words. These terms are later defined in a detailed glossary at the conclusion of the title. Not only are important terms defined, but Aretha also makes sure to instruct readers about the differences between terms. For many teens alcoholism and alcohol abuse may be viewed as one in the same, but Aretha makes sure to clarify misconceptions like this in <span style="font-style:italic;">On The Rocks</span>. Graphically, On The Rocks is very pleasing to the scrutinizing eye. The use of simple fonts, aged photo effects, and the scrap book style of presentation, complete with faux scotch tape, creates an invisible sense of unity that ties the work together. The important facts and statistics scream to be heard with almost graffiti-like fonts attached to their strewn sentences. <br /><br />Aretha explains to readers about the hazards of drinking and how to spot signs of depression, suicide, and other risky behavior. The simple look and even easier to understand passages, make reading <span style="font-style:italic;">On The Rocks</span> an undaunting task for reluctant readers. <span style="font-style:italic;">On The Rocks</span> presents just the right amount of factual information and statistics to keep reader interest. For a nonfiction title, Aretha does a great job of trying to make the subject matter as interesting as possible. Teens will appreciate the time and consideration made to get actual teens to voice their opinions on the problem of alcohol abuse in America. A brief overview of the problem might be just enough of a push to get teens involved with making a difference in programs like AA, MADD, and SADD. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reader's Annotation</span><br />For teens interesting in learning more about alcohol use, abuse, and treatment, author David Aretha's <span style="font-style:italic;">On The Rocks</span> is here to help. With sobering statistics, real abuser stories, and comprehensive information on all aspects of alcoholism, readers are informed about a very threatening problem for American teens. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Author Information</span><br />David Aretha is a graduate of the University of Michigan, who works as a regular editor on both sports and history books. He has also written several other books about substance abuse, including books on cocaine, party drugs, and steroids. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Genre</span><br />nonfiction, substance abuse<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Curriculum Ties</span><br />alcoholism, teenage drinking<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Book Talking Ideas</span><br />Why do you think American teens have a greater binge drinking problem than teens in European countries?<br />Do you think that the drinking age should be lowered to 18?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reading Level</span><br />Grades 7+<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Challenge Issues</span><br />N/A<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reason For Selection</span><br />A blog about materials for teens wouldn't be complete without a book about alcohol use and abuse. For teens struggling with alcohol abuse, or for teens living family abusers, this guide will help them understand their options for treatment, as well as why the problem exists and persists.The Love Prawnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000894404062972132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-287879587180024196.post-35821230236813745142010-05-12T14:59:00.000-07:002010-05-16T21:29:32.555-07:0011. How to Draw Noir Comics<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAeZ2RtXNMpLqe4P2-LlZskMF8cqRAI3Cs51NBArSwqL7uYtz9AS4jj0NyOlR0YLLszeIjOov8ZFSQjl2kJYqJh_qQpq9oA-smB0VNK4Q884ZuLSRQxqb4YVQZMOsIs7_s3lpS2pnvIPM/s1600/noir_comics.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAeZ2RtXNMpLqe4P2-LlZskMF8cqRAI3Cs51NBArSwqL7uYtz9AS4jj0NyOlR0YLLszeIjOov8ZFSQjl2kJYqJh_qQpq9oA-smB0VNK4Q884ZuLSRQxqb4YVQZMOsIs7_s3lpS2pnvIPM/s200/noir_comics.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5470508085242501282" /></a><br /><br />Martinbrough, Shawn. How to Draw Noir Comics. ISBN: 978-0823024063. Watson-Guptill. First Edition, 2007.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Critical Evaluation</span><br />Noir is the French word for black, and for artist Shawn Martinbrough, the noir art style is a celbration of all things black. <span style="font-style:italic;">How to Draw Noir Comics</span> is a guide for experienced artists who want to expand their style to encompass the noir look. Author Shawn Martingbrough, a critically acclaimed artist in comic noir, presents readers with eight detailed chapters that discuss and illustrate the necessary steps for creating a bleak urban world, with rampant crime and cynical characters. This masterfully crafted book begins with an introduction to noir style and also to the types of materials needed to create the necessary look. What's great about this volume is the vast personal insight that Martinbrough gives readers. From the preface onward, it's clear that Martinbrough isn't hiding any trade secrets. Through his detailed descriptions and passages, he reveals everything he knows about the subject, from what brand of pens to buy, to how to collaborate successfully with different kinds of writers. <br /><br />In each chapter, several different art exercises are presented to readers. The goal of these exercises is to help artists hone crucial noir applications, such as the use of blacks, perspective, texture, line, and composition. Martinbrough provides his own examples of each exercise given, and shows his different stages of completion. By demonstrating his progress, he gives readers a better idea of how the addition of a silhouette, or inclusion of a background image, can change the meaning of any given composition. Outside of these exercises, Martinbrough also displays his striking original artwork in accompaniment to relevant sections. Because of the harsh beauty of his art, each page has the ability to captivate readers, and inspire them to work towards greatness. Another wonderful inclusion in this title is Martinbrough's constant references to the artists and films that have inspired his style. Reader's interested in his style and art, now have further research to delve into, should they choose to expand their styles even further. <br /><br />This volume also prepares aspiring comic book artists for the types of things they will need to know for their first jobs in the business, and the tasks they will have to perform. Martinbrough began as a painter, and then worked his way up toward inker, and then eventually he became a full on artist. The sheer amount of information in this art book is what makes it so valuable. Martinbrough discusses the simplest details expansively, and by the end of the text, readers will know everything they need about lighting, staging action, and building reference collections. The valuable personal insight of this industry verteran, guides readers on the path to becoming a master, if only they'll put in the time necessary to do so. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reader's Annotation</span><br />For artists and illustrators interested in taking their artwork down a dark alley of crime and cynicism, look no further than the title <span style="font-style:italic;">How to Draw Noir Comics</span>, from acclaimed artist Shawn Martinbrough. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Author Information</span><br />Shawn Martinbrough is an illustrator and graphic artist who's work has been showcased in various Marvel, Vertigo, and DC comic book series. Starting as a painter, and then working his way up through the ranks as an inker, Martinborough would eventually illustrated the critically acclaimed titles <span style="font-style:italic;">Batman: Detective comics</span> and also <span style="font-style:italic;">The Losers</span>, which has recently been adapted into a full length motion picture. Martinbrough's distinct noir art style is demonstrated in his most recent comic book run of <span style="font-style:italic;">Luke Cage Noir</span> for Marvel comics, and in his instructional art book <span style="font-style:italic;">How to Draw Noir Comics</span>.<br /><br />Martinbrough is currently working on a comic book series based on the Daredevil Villain Bullseye, which is set against the backdrop of professional baseball. Aside from the wold of comics, Martinbrough's has also worked as an artist for Coca Cola, Vibe, Playboy, and Bad Boy Entertainment. Martinbrough is also the owner of Verge Entertainment, a film production company that has worked in the genres of romance, science fiction, and thrillers. Verge also works on developing original ideas for television and advertising. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Genre</span><br />nonfiction, instructional art<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Curriculum Ties</span><br />art, illustration, comics as literature<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Book Talking Ideas</span><br />Discuss Noir style in art and cinema.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reading Level</span><br />Grades 8+<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Challenge Issues</span><br />violence, crime<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Challenge defense ideas:</span><br />1. Make sure you are familiar with your library collection and the book in question.<br />2. Be familiar with your library collection policy.<br />3. If possible, speak with the person challenging the material and make sure they feel comfortable. Ask the customer what they disliked or disapproved of in the resource. If they still insist on challenging the material give them instructions on how to file a formal complaint.<br />4. Research professional reviews that speak to the material's merit, and get input from teen readers on why they found the book important.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reason For Selection</span><br />I knew I wanted to include an instructional art book of some kind in my blog. I can remember being a teenager and repeatedly checking out books on how to draw my favorite superheroes. With the popularity of darker comic books in the cinema, like <span style="font-style:italic;">Batman Begins</span> and <span style="font-style:italic;">Sin City</span>, I felt that this noir take on comic book illustration would be relevant for teen use today.The Love Prawnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000894404062972132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-287879587180024196.post-6621888908654178052010-05-12T14:54:00.001-07:002010-05-17T01:00:56.725-07:0012. Make Barrets & More<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvKvzd5Tv4-GMf8o82l5L72qQ7yIcJ7AX-eRBeunhxMEnn-j8cvDbKRXkYkwj13-9LXBXGFLlUt8o8V0hr-WDlnbGUo6HZB6LN_2XMMq-HJ0COfKsu-iOpfJ8LxKjC2BG48Ln0ObvR3UM/s1600/Make+Barrets.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 198px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvKvzd5Tv4-GMf8o82l5L72qQ7yIcJ7AX-eRBeunhxMEnn-j8cvDbKRXkYkwj13-9LXBXGFLlUt8o8V0hr-WDlnbGUo6HZB6LN_2XMMq-HJ0COfKsu-iOpfJ8LxKjC2BG48Ln0ObvR3UM/s200/Make+Barrets.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5470505674565448178" /></a><br />Moody, Jo. Make Barrets & More. ISBN: 1-56496-285-7. Quarry Books. First Edition, 1997.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Overview </span><br />Welcome to the world of homemade art and hair accessories. Fashion journalist Jo Moody separates her sixteen different jewelry craft projects in <span style="font-style:italic;">Make Barrettes and More</span>, into sections: clips and combs, beautiful bands, and hair slides. This instructional book introduces readers to all the basics of jewelry construction. Moody discusses the necessary tools to get started, proper materials to use, and the design process through easy to read text, tip sections, and explanatory photographs. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Critical Evaluation</span><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Make Barrettes and More</span> is a wonderful introductory book about jewelry construction. The bright colors and encouraging words in the book's composition make the task of creating jewelry a pleasant experience. The simple steps, accompanied by relevant and easy to understand photographs are what make this volume an excellent choice for the beginning jewelry maker, but the appeal doesn't stop there. The variety of craft projects explored would be suited for more advanced jewelry makers as well. Some crafts utilize advanced techniques such as metal working, and clay firing, that are demonstrated in a crocodile hair slide and shining star barrette. While some of the techniques and materials to use are harder to work with than others, readers have the option to focus on the craft projects that they feel comfortable with. Each design project is introduced with the materials needed, the steps to get started, as well as a few informative tips that Moody shares from personal experience. The end of the book also fortuitously includes a section where readers can sketch their own ideas for jewelry and craft projects, and after reading <span style="font-style:italic;">Make Barrettes and More</span> readers will be more than inspired to do so. After reading the pages of the vibrant text, one can't help but want to pick up some rhinestones and glitter and start crafting and creating. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reader's Annotation</span><br />Making homemade hair accessories has never been easier with the help of <span style="font-style:italic;">Make Barrettes & More</span> by stylist and jewelry aficionado Jo Moody. Through step by step instructions and wonderfully detailed photographs, craft newcomers will quickly join the ranks of the accessorizing expert. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Author Information</span><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Make Barrettes & More</span> author Jo Moody is a fashion and craft journalist, whose passion for jewelry making has inspired several books, including: <span style="font-style:italic;">The Book of Jewelry </span>(1994), <span style="font-style:italic;">Keepsake Crafts Beads</span> (1994), and <span style="font-style:italic;">Keepsake Crafts Buttons </span>(1994). Currently, Moody works as a freelance writer and stylist and continues her love and fascination of crafts, <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Genre</span><br />nonfiction, hobbies, fashion<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Curriculum Ties</span><br />fashion<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reading Level</span><br />Grades 8+ (some instructions may be too difficult for younger readers)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Challenge Issues</span><br />N/A<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reason For Selection</span><br />I knew that I wanted to include hobby books for both male and female teens in my blog, and the wonderfully photographed instructions in this title are what sold me right away. Jewelry is an important part of teenage life for many girls, and so is creative expression. <span style="font-style:italic;">Make Barrettes and More </span>combines these two aspects of teenage life in a step by step artists guide for making fashionable jewelry.The Love Prawnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000894404062972132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-287879587180024196.post-39342630172805539872010-05-12T14:46:00.000-07:002010-05-17T00:56:31.596-07:0013. The Skate Boarding Field Manual<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsqdscY8Yg7VMmcBV13wXbpiXc75P6jXeugpC83PBX7vJwKywstwyA1FxK3KBx0IvS9dtg2kQzYwmd1ja6BxP7s5r5pMvxk-1O3Vd35B7XwsP5R-A12A3G0pfs8vjUlx7mGxUeH0sAxVU/s1600/Skate+Manual.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 154px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsqdscY8Yg7VMmcBV13wXbpiXc75P6jXeugpC83PBX7vJwKywstwyA1FxK3KBx0IvS9dtg2kQzYwmd1ja6BxP7s5r5pMvxk-1O3Vd35B7XwsP5R-A12A3G0pfs8vjUlx7mGxUeH0sAxVU/s200/Skate+Manual.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5470504737052099586" /></a><br /><br />Stutt, Ryan. The Skateboarding Field Manual. ISBN: 978-1554073627. Firefly Books. First Edition, 2009.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Overview</span><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">The Skate Boarding Field Manua</span>l by Ryan Stutt is an introductory guide to skateboarding that explores not only the proper tools and mechanics to accomplish basic skateboarding tricks, but also the subculture, history and lifestyle. Stutt explains everything that you need to know to get started, from how to purchase the proper board, tools, and safety gear, to skateboarding stances and board assembly. The book contains information on how to accomplish 33 different tricks of varying difficutly, and includes photographed snapshots to demonstrate the "how to" steps. This wonderful beginners guide also features a glossary defining skateboarding terminology that new skaters will need to be familiar with. Starting with the basics and history and finishing with more complicated tricks, this manual explores the world of skateboarding inside and out. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Critical Evaluation</span><br />Ryan Stutt, author of <span style="font-style:italic;">The Skateboarding Field Manual</span>, is by no means an expert skateboarder, but luckily for readers it doesn't take an expert skateboarder to scribe an informational guide of trick basics, proper skating tools, techniques, and a history of the sport and subculture. Stutt describes the purpose of his manual as a means to get skateboarding newcomers up to speed with the sport and the culture, so that they'll be ready to go out and skate with the more experienced skateboarding community. Stutt leaves no stone unturned in this tell all of skateboarding life. He discusses everything from the proper shoes, the names of obstacles, and even the ever important skate park etiquette. His history of the sport is abridged, but gives newcomers a basic understanding of how the sport has evolved to present day.<br /><br />At no point during the course of this manual will readers question Stutt's knowledge of the subject. Having worked in the world of professional skateboarding, Stutt made sure to get information and input from skaters of various skill levels. He presents 33 different tricks for new skaters to tackle, in the categories of grinds, slides, transitions, flips, and flat ground tricks. Each of these different tricks is presented with an introduction about the history and complexity of the trick, as well as a diagram for foot placement, and the "how to" steps for execution. The various stages of the trick are wonderfully captured by the photography of the talented Harry Gils. These photographs are numbered to correspond with the various "how to" steps. Gils' photography is also artfully placed throughout the manual, showcasing the art of skateboarding in the urban landscape it thrives. Graphically, the manual mimics and pays homage to the styles of popular skateboarding magazines like <span style="font-style:italic;">Thrasher</span>, and <span style="font-style:italic;">Transworld</span>. Each double spread features text in bold and bright colors contrasted against stark whites. Stutt tries to make the text lively and entertaining by throwing in the occasional pop culture reference, which teen readers are sure to get a kick out of. Overall, this beginners guide delivers on a variety of levels. Newcomers will appreciate the wealth of beginner knowledge, and skateboarding pros will marvel at the skilled photography. <span style="font-style:italic;">The Skateboarding Field Manual</span> has a little something for everyone. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reader's Annotation</span><br />The world of skateboarding has changed a lot since the 50's, and for newcomers to the sport there is a lot of catching up to do. Ryan Stutt's <span style="font-style:italic;">The Skate Boarding Field Manual</span> is here to get skaters up to speed.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Author Information</span><br />Ryan Stutt is an active skateboarder and skateboard enthusiast. He has spent the majority of his professional career as the managing editor of <span style="font-style:italic;">SBC Skateboard</span> magazine, and he is currently working with Elemental Skateboards on the non-profit organization <span style="font-style:italic;">Elemental Awareness</span>. <span style="font-style:italic;">Elemental Awareness</span> is an organization that seeks to educate and inspire young people to develop self-esteem in order to lead successful lives. <span style="font-style:italic;">Elemental Awareness</span> offers skateboarding events, workshops, seminars, and scholarships to attend skateboarding camps. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Genre</span><br />sports<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Curriculum Ties</span><br />physical education<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Book Talking Ideas</span><br />Where will the sport of skateboarding be 10 years from now?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reading Level</span><br />Grades 7+<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Challenge Issues</span><br />N/A<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Reason For Selection</span><br />Skateboarding is a popular sport amongst the teenage crowd. I frequently take my dog to the local dog park, which is situated directly across from the busiest skate park I've ever seen. This skate park is filled with teens riding skateboards, bicycles, and even scooters. I wanted to include a couple of sports titles somewhere in this blog and with the popularity of skateboarding in my area, this skateboarding manual seemed to be the perfect fit.The Love Prawnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000894404062972132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-287879587180024196.post-24862224977270680552010-05-12T14:39:00.001-07:002010-05-17T00:52:12.079-07:0014. Been There Should've Done That<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtys8QewqkxtsaaFgRjC8LruTc6rKeNYxks-hEG1Mr3sVXpFEL-oMzEMqBwvi5fyW3-fNVB58qXTlONg-Lv3P09hhAyeaUw8y9bUNg3KhBCP2G0aGHcR_3pFOtT63U5XWnLvfnpZDkKQs/s1600/Been+There.png"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 126px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtys8QewqkxtsaaFgRjC8LruTc6rKeNYxks-hEG1Mr3sVXpFEL-oMzEMqBwvi5fyW3-fNVB58qXTlONg-Lv3P09hhAyeaUw8y9bUNg3KhBCP2G0aGHcR_3pFOtT63U5XWnLvfnpZDkKQs/s200/Been+There.png" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5470501436041730930" /></a><br /><br />Tyler, Suzette. Been There Should've Done That. ISBN: 978-0965608619. Front Porch Press. Second Edition, 2001.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Overview</span><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Been There Should've Done That</span> is a compilation of quotes from college students, graduates, and professors, that give a wealth of advice to prospective college students. Author Suzette Tyler organizes her collected quotes into a variety of helpful sections that detail useful topics ranging from freshman orientation and roommates, to time management and choosing a major. These topics and more are explored in the book's twenty six different sections. The sections are separated by a gray title page and large quote to represent the topic discussed. Each of these sections details an aspect of college life that former college students can relate to, but for new students, the advice provided is new, fresh, and informative. <br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Critical Evaluation</span><br />"The Problem with college is that you figure it out about the time you're ready to graduate." This opening quote from Suzette Tyler's <span style="font-style:italic;">Been There Should've Done That</span>, reveals the tragic truth that many college students are under prepared for the paths they've chosen. Tyler, a former college adviser, seeks to put an end to the under prepared college freshman by putting together a book of advice, not from her many years of experience dealing with students, but from the actual mouths of college students, graduates, and professors. Her compilation of gathered quotes explores a range of useful topics for future freshman about choosing classes, living life, and utilizing college to its full potential. The variety of quotes in the book's twenty six different sections express a unifying message that college is a different experience for everyone. Some students find their fit in clubs and organizations, while others in study abroad programs or Greek life. Not every program is for everyone, but the advice of students encourages teens to get out there and explore all of their options, because you never know who you want to become until you get out there and start exploring. The advice on study habits, taking classes outside your major, and professionalism will help teens to become prepared for the exciting challenges that await them. I only wish that I could go back, read this book, and experience college with new insight. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reader's Annotation</span><br />College can be a scary place full of uncertainties. For prospective students worried about their transition into college life, <span style="font-style:italic;">Been There Should've Done That</span>, makes things a little bit easier by providing real advice from college students, graduates, teachers aides, and professors. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Author Information</span><br />Suzette Tyler is a former college adviser, turned author of books designed to assist high school students as they transition into college life. Her other books include: <span style="font-style:italic;">Been There, Should've Done That: 995 Tips for Making the Most of College</span> (2008), <span style="font-style:italic;">Been There Should've Done That: 505 Tips for Making the Most of College</span> (1997), and <span style="font-style:italic;">Been There, Should've Done That II : More Tips for Making the Most of College </span>(2001). <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Genre</span><br />college prep<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Curriculum Ties</span><br />college prep<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Book Talking Ideas</span><br />What are your plans after high school?<br />If you could have any job in the world what would it be?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reading Level</span><br />Grades 8+<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Challenge Issues</span><br />N/A<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reason For Selection</span><br />I wanted to include a couple of books that provided tips and advice for teenagers entering college. After browsing through a couple of different books in the library, I eventually chose this title because of the simple format and use of real student and faculty quotes. I only wish that I would have had a survival guide like this before I began my first semester at California State University Northridge.The Love Prawnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000894404062972132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-287879587180024196.post-34970838939265608892010-05-12T14:30:00.000-07:002010-05-17T00:48:03.173-07:0015. Confessions of a High School Word Nerd<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP30l7blGwwHGE80WT20NFFAS1El7CVB7CM7y28-ZIscAikXlbld0XMANZxHFZR8r1BSCBeycx7KVVokozJRkwX1oWZing8yJaEogqwBJT0CttKh4lpk8CCu9a0Br3Yew6qaYN8nBgC-8/s1600/Word+Nerd.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 129px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP30l7blGwwHGE80WT20NFFAS1El7CVB7CM7y28-ZIscAikXlbld0XMANZxHFZR8r1BSCBeycx7KVVokozJRkwX1oWZing8yJaEogqwBJT0CttKh4lpk8CCu9a0Br3Yew6qaYN8nBgC-8/s200/Word+Nerd.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5470499629897189026" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br />Cohen, Arianne and Kinder, Colleen. Confessions of a High School Word Nerd. ISBN: 978-0143038368. Penguin. First Edition, 2007.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Overview</span><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Confessions of A High School Word Nerd</span> is a SAT prep tool disguised as a collection of essays for teenage readers. This collection of ten essays written by recent college graduates details interesting and often embarrassing high school memories that teens today can laugh at, and in doing so, learn important vocabulary words through bold text and easy to locate definitions. Each essay contains over 100 vocabulary words helpful to raise SAT scores for teen test takers. Each essay is presented as a confession, with many authors revealing that their stories have never been told until now. The massive amounts of defined vocabulary on each pages is revived at the end of the title in a glossary of all the combined terms. This book, meant to educate and entertain, adds a new element to traditional flash card and memorization study. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Critical Evaluation</span><br />Who said that studying had to be boring? <span style="font-style:italic;">Confessions of a High School Word Nerd</span>, throws out the traditional flash cards and boring SAT strategy guides in exchange for entertaining and humorous essays on memorable high school experiences from recent college graduates. These enjoyable stories are filled with useful and important vocabulary words necessary for building a strong base for SAT success. By fusing prep words into the context of a story, teen readers will not only have the opportunity to read prep words in context, but will be able to enjoy the learning process as stories unfold. Each of the ten essays in this collection deals with a different aspect of high school life, from the dread of the first kiss, to the horrors of the college application process. These high school moments are remembered with witty reflection. The awkwardness that comes from calling boys and attending band camp will appeal to teens experiencing the same kinds of awkward experiences themselves. The variety of obscure and difficult vocabulary words used in this title and the easy to read bold text and definitions will help teens tremendously with learning the challenging terms presented. The humorous essays included in this valuable resource provide teens with an alternative and entertaining way to study for an otherwise very dry task. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reader's Annotation</span><br />The solution to SAT flash cards and practice tests is here! <span style="font-style:italic;">Confessions of a High School Word Nerd</span> interweaves SAT vocabulary and definitions into hilarious essays on high school life. <br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Author Information</span><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Confessions of a High School Word Ner</span>d co-editor and contributing writer Arianne Cohen is a very interesting woman. The 6 foot 3 inch tall journalist spends her professional time as a contributing writer for reputable publications <span style="font-style:italic;">Marie Claire</span>, the <span style="font-style:italic;">New York Time</span>s, Vogue, and <span style="font-style:italic;">Popular Science</span>. Cohen also acts as a contributing editor for <span style="font-style:italic;">Woman's Day</span> magazine. She has published two other books in addition to Word Nerd including: The Tall Book, and Help it's Broken. <span style="font-style:italic;">The Tall Book</span> explores the world of difficulties for tall people and the Help it's Broken acts as a do it yourself bible for beginners, giving advice for the average joe before an expert is needed. <br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Confessions of a High School Word Nerd</span> co-editor and contributing writer Colleen Kinder is a New York native who has traveled and lived in a variety of locations including: Poland, Liberia, Mexico City, and the Dominican Republic. Her essays and articles have appeared in publications such as <span style="font-style:italic;">Salon</span>, <span style="font-style:italic;">The New Republic</span>, <span style="font-style:italic;">The New York Times</span> Travel Section, and <span style="font-style:italic;">The Washington Post</span>. When she's not busy writing guidebooks on travel for twenty somethings, Kinder spends her free time collecting globes, and taking excessive amounts of photos on her travels. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Genre</span><br />SAT prep<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Curriculum Ties</span><br />SAT prep, English, vocabulary<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Book Talking Ideas</span><br />Teens and pressure.<br />Reading and how reading can build vocabulary.<br />Preparing for the SAT doesn't have to be boring.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reading Level</span><br />Grades 9+<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Challenge Issues</span><br />N/A<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reason For Selection</span><br />I wanted to includes some SAT prep materials in my blog, because I know that this is an area of materials that I will need to be responsible for knowing as a future young adult librarian. After glancing through the bulky SAT prep volumes on my library's shelves, I spotted this little gem that seemed to call my name from between their overpowering pages. I really enjoy the fact that this collection of essays functions as a means to help students prepare for SAT vocabulary, so that students can be entertained while they study for their exams.The Love Prawnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000894404062972132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-287879587180024196.post-88336588555641138342010-05-05T10:05:00.001-07:002010-05-17T00:20:04.579-07:0016. Wolf Rider<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpO9j-mCUWdAIBIFdwMZqvDhBMac20m5IYFqlqfQKuuMEQ2TxNDZ7G58G33xzrhid0lafAnGvkw4hyUytRv00HjTijD60pg1t52WBW8J5w0U4hxLiaPKzQ0IYrQRyiPJOEeJO5Xcs0hKU/s1600/Wolf+Rider.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 128px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpO9j-mCUWdAIBIFdwMZqvDhBMac20m5IYFqlqfQKuuMEQ2TxNDZ7G58G33xzrhid0lafAnGvkw4hyUytRv00HjTijD60pg1t52WBW8J5w0U4hxLiaPKzQ0IYrQRyiPJOEeJO5Xcs0hKU/s200/Wolf+Rider.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5470487721783447010" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Plot Summary</span><br />Andy Zadinski is new to Madison. He's an average 15 year old, and on an average night, a horrific phone call changes his life forever. The phone rings three times before Andy answers and hears the chilling voice of a man who calls himself Zeke. Zeke confesses to Andy that he has just murdered a woman named Nina Klemmer. Andy is shocked but keeps Zeke on the phone so that his friend Paul can call the cops in order to trace Zeke's call. Andy remains calm and is able to persuade Zeke to reveal more details about the murder. Andy learns that Nina was a student at the local college, around 5 feet six inches tall, thin, with dyed black hair. Zeke wanted to take Nina out, but she repeatedly refused, so Zeke felt the need to punish her. Zeke confesses to entering her home and stabbing her to death while she pleaded for her life. Suspecting the call is being traced, Zeke hangs up before Andy can find out any more details. Andy becomes obsessed with the call even though nobody believes that the story could possibly be true, not the police, not his father, and even his best friend Paul has doubts about the credibility of the call, but Andy is convinced otherwise. <br /><br />Andy realizes the extreme odds of a killer randomly dialing his home number. His number is not listed, and the only person his father gave their number to was his secretary at the college where he works. Andy can't let the phone call go, even when the police inform him that no murder or missing person's cases have surfaced. While browsing through a Madison College directory Andy discovers that Nina Klemmer attends the university, and Andy makes it his responsibility to warn her about Zeke and the horrific call. Andy calls her, then tracks her down in the library, and her description is exactly as Zeke described. After following a series of clues, Andy suspects that college professor Phil Lucas is in fact Zeke, and when Andy tries to prove it, he finds himself caught up in the horrifying storyline he knew was true all along. <br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Critical Evaluation</span><br />Avi's <span style="font-style:italic;">Wolf Rider</span> is a horrifying mystery that deals with the theme of obsession from both sides of the spectrum. When 15 year old Andy Zadinski receives a phone call from a man named Zeke who confesses to committing the murder of a student named Nina Klemmer, he becomes obsessed with the possibility that this call may be more than a late night hoax. Zeke details his obsession for Nina during his brief conversation with Andy, and goes over in detail how he brutally murdered her with a kitchen knife. Andy in turn becomes obsessed with the call and this obsession takes over his life for the next couple of weeks. Andy contacts the police and tells his father, but nobody believes his story. Readers learn that earlier that year Andy's mother was killed by a drunk driver, and the adults in the story suspect that this Zeke and Nina story is really just a cry for help. Andy realizes that if he is going to stop this murder from happening he has to do everything alone and in secret. <br /><br />Piece by piece Andy puts together the puzzle surrounding the late night phone call. Readers follow Andy's detective efforts as he becomes more and more intertwined in Zeke's grim storyline. Each new break in the case brings Andy one step closer to meeting the man who's voice has been echoing in his head through the long and endless nights. Avi pens a quick pace for this tale of supsense, by sectioning his story into an array of short stabbing paragraphs, that often leave readers with a cliffhanger feeling as new evidence is revealed. Avi also adds to the horror of the story by alternating between both Andy's and Zeke's perspectives of the unfolding events. The suspense builds until the novel's conclusion, which may leave reader's scratching their heads as to what Avi's intentions might have been. Both Andy's and Zeke's obsession reveals a haunting side of the human condition that leads to disastrous outcomes. Andy's silenced cry will resonate with teen readers who are used to being ignored by adults and authority figures. This lack of concern from the adults in the novel at times borders on the comedic side, but the results of their lack of concern makes the effect even more chilling. The grim subject matter and murderous plot make this novel suitable and more enjoyable for a much older teen audience. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reader's Annotation</span><br />The phone rings and the man on the other end has called to confess a horrible murder. This murderer isn't calling the police, he's calling you. <br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Author Information</span><br />Avi is the bestselling author of over 60 young adult novels and children's books. He spent the first 25 years of his career as a librarian and it wasn't until the birth of his first son that he started writing for children and young adults. Avi is a unique author in that he works in a variety of genres, including: mystery, comedy, sports, fantasy, historical fiction, and horror. His writing has won numerous awards including the Newbery Medal for his historical fiction title <span style="font-style:italic;">Crispin: Cross of Lead </span> (2002), and a Newbery Honor for <span style="font-style:italic;">Nothing but the Truth.</span> (1991).<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Genre</span><br />mystery<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Curriculum Ties</span><br />N/A<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Book Talking Ideas</span><br />Did Andy make the right decision in pursuing Zeke?<br />Do you think the depiction of adult behavior in response to Andy's story is accurate? Why do you feel adults are quick to discredit teens, and how does that make you feel?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reading Level</span><br />Grades 9+ (The vocabulary and story are an easy read, but the horrific undertones of the murder are more suitable for high school students and older readers)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Challenge Issues</span><br />violence, murder<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Challenge defense ideas:</span><br />1. Make sure you are familiar with your library collection and the book in question.<br />2. Be familiar with your library collection policy.<br />3. If possible, speak with the person challenging the material and make sure they feel comfortable. Ask the customer what they disliked or disapproved of in the resource. If they still insist on challenging the material give them instructions on how to file a formal complaint.<br />4. Research professional reviews that speak to the material's merit, and get input from teen readers on why they found the book important.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reason For Selection</span><br />I wanted to include a mystery title somewhere in my blog, and after reading the first couple of pages of <span style="font-style:italic;">Wolf Rider</span> I was hooked. <span style="font-style:italic;">Wolf Rider</span> opens with a horrifying phone call between a murderer and a teenage boy whom he happened to call. The idea of receiving a phone call from a murderer out of the blue was something I found shocking, and before I knew it I had read the first couple of sections while still standing in the young adult section.The Love Prawnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000894404062972132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-287879587180024196.post-669987758750100732010-05-05T10:01:00.002-07:002010-05-17T00:11:34.043-07:0017. The Essential Tomb of Dracula<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj09hPi5rXrIwugqnKw5n6_h6ImGIZI3Cd7zwA7yKZS7lXNHNWVrjbvTIrsBkHlK2QHfaha4gM4H_qSYfkz-SgeSziAEmHYOsfIiEdV21c2hhku2Mevj7XcAAS0GT1K-qXGnesi175vxQ8/s1600/Essential_Tomb_of_Dracula_1.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 124px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj09hPi5rXrIwugqnKw5n6_h6ImGIZI3Cd7zwA7yKZS7lXNHNWVrjbvTIrsBkHlK2QHfaha4gM4H_qSYfkz-SgeSziAEmHYOsfIiEdV21c2hhku2Mevj7XcAAS0GT1K-qXGnesi175vxQ8/s200/Essential_Tomb_of_Dracula_1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5470242827559101458" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Plot Summary</span><br />Dracula has lofty dreams of taking over the world by turning the living into an undead army who will obey his every beck and call. Marvel comics revives the infamous Dracula character in this collection of vampire stories in <span style="font-style:italic;">The Essential Tomb of Dracula</span>. This Essential volume includes 25 original <span style="font-style:italic;">Tomb of Dracula</span> issues, as well as an issues of <span style="font-style:italic;">Werewolf By Night</span> and <span style="font-style:italic;">Giant-size Chillers</span>. In each issue Dracula is confronted by a team of vampire slayers who seek to destroy him before his plans come to fruition. Dracula's plans for world domination are repeatedly foiled by the slayers, but not before he can claim a new victim or two. The group of slayers consists of Dr. Rachel Van Helsing, descendant of Dracula's Frank Drake, the wheel chair ridden Dr. Quincy Harker, the exceptionally strong Taj Nital, and the urban sensation known as Blade. Each of these slayers bring a unique skill to the table in their quest to destroy Dracula and the vampire community. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Critical Evaluation</span><br />Marvel Comics' <span style="font-style:italic;">Tomb of Dracula</span> is a chilling series of horror fiction that deserves its place alongside other great Dracula stories that came before it. The first couple of issues in the series serve as back story and are ultimately forgettable until writer Marv Wolfman got involved and put his signature macabre stamp on the series. Wolfman's first issue, "Night of the Death Stalkers," details Dracula's plan to use an army of children to thwart the group of troublesome slayers who consistently seek to destroy him. Dracula uses his mental power of persuasion to control the minds of a group of young boys, and turns them into a vicious pack of weapon toting murderers. This chilling story arc also introduces the character Blade, who goes on to become one of the most infamous vampire slayers in the history of modern vampire fiction. <br /><br />The horrifying "Death Stalkers" storyline features the detailed and intense illustrations of artist Gene Colan. Colan turns the blank expressions on the faces of the controlled young boys into the kinds of images that nightmares are made of. What <span style="font-style:italic;">Tomb of Dracula</span> lacks in gore it makes up in haunting imagery. Colan's grotesque portrayal of the undead and his use of shadows, set the mood for Wolfman's distinctively ominous storylines. The lettering also sets an eerie mood using fonts reminiscent of the kinds used in classic horror films. The marvel style of storytelling popular in the 70's is not missed in the issues of <span style="font-style:italic;">Tomb of Dracula</span>. Characters narrate their actions before committing them, and dialogue at times verges on the hokey. Despite the changes that have been made to comic book storytelling since <span style="font-style:italic;">Tomb of Dracula's</span> publication in the 70's, the issues are still entertaining to read and surprisingly scary. The depiction of women in the series is not acceptable by today's standards, with Dracula often commenting on the feeble minded nature and inferiority of women. This flaw doesn't overshadow the wonderful amalgamation of chilling storylines, art, and text composition that bring Dracula to life in the masterful Marvel way. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reader's Annotation</span><br />Dracula is back and ready to take over the world, if only there weren't a group of devoted vampire slayers to stop him in his illustrated tracks. Marvel comics has once again taken a legendary series and re-released it in an Essential volume for fans of horror comics and Dracula himself. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Author Information</span><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Tomb of Dracula</span> writer Marv Wolfman is a comic book legend. From the time he was a child in the early 50's, Wolfman has been a die-hard comic book fan. This devoted interest in comic books is what led him to pursue a career as a writer. Wolfman's first job in the comic book industry came as an editor for Marvel Comics. Wolfman would eventually trade his editing responsibilities for writing, and would go on to create some of the most memorable characters in the Marvel and DC universes. Wolfman is credited with creating several important comic book characters, including: Blade the vampire slayer, The Teen Titans, Nova, Bullseye, and Black Cat. <br /><br />Wolfman also penned the storyline for the important DC series <span style="font-style:italic;">Crisis on Infinite Earths</span>, which celebrated DC comics 50th anniversary. This groundbreaking series rewrote the entire history of DC comics, and in doing so, helped to bring unity to previous continuity issues. Wolfman's characters and comics have been adapted for television and film, and he continues to write for comic book fans today. He is expecting to release an all new <span style="font-style:italic;">Teen Titans</span> graphic novel by Christmas of 2010. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Genre</span><br />graphic novel, horror<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Curriculum Ties</span><br />comic history<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Book Talking Ideas</span><br />Discuss Dracula history.<br />Describe the "Death Stalkers" storyline.<br />How has Dracula changed through literature and cinema?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reading Level</span><br />Grades 7+<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Challenge Issues</span><br />violence, gore, sexism<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Challenge defense ideas:</span><br />1. Make sure you are familiar with your library collection and the book in question.<br />2. Be familiar with your library collection policy.<br />3. If possible, speak with the person challenging the material and make sure they feel comfortable. Ask the customer what they disliked or disapproved of in the resource. If they still insist on challenging the material give them instructions on how to file a formal complaint.<br />4. Research professional reviews that speak to the material's merit, and get input from teen readers on why they found the book important.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reason For Selection</span><br />After reading some fantasy graphic novels for my author/genre study paper, I knew that I wanted to read more non-traditional comic book genres. The library had a collection of Dracula comics and I had never read horror in the graphic novel format before. The experience proved to be both interesting and entertaining. With the popularity of vampire fiction today because of titles like <span style="font-style:italic;">Twilight</span>, this collection of older vampire fiction might find a new use.The Love Prawnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000894404062972132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-287879587180024196.post-59250925029360235482010-05-05T10:01:00.001-07:002010-05-17T01:07:09.262-07:0018. The Prestige<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKMaZeTyB16Q8kctJMNJax79inRkbSV2uR-46wQ20dCvGcOrl6qASy17aoEZ93LKN5LUw9J5pxka9lO4lP6Yw2YtJL2QKl7_ZOBGbiz5qnEcf8noxIwlg_ZcCaPEkamZZC2ZQxUyTnHOU/s1600/The+Prestige.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 130px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKMaZeTyB16Q8kctJMNJax79inRkbSV2uR-46wQ20dCvGcOrl6qASy17aoEZ93LKN5LUw9J5pxka9lO4lP6Yw2YtJL2QKl7_ZOBGbiz5qnEcf8noxIwlg_ZcCaPEkamZZC2ZQxUyTnHOU/s200/The+Prestige.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5470175086263785058" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Plot Summary</span><br />Andrew Westley is a reporter for the <span style="font-style:italic;">Chronicle </span>that reports on odd stories about UFO's and religious cults. On his way to cover a story about a bi-locating leader of a religous sect known as the Rapturous Church of Christ Jesus, he is given a copy of a book titled <span style="font-style:italic;">Secret Methods of Magic </span>, written by Alfred Borden. The name stands out to Mr. Westley, because Borden was the surname he was born with before he was adopted. Westley feels no urge to seek out the parents who abandoned him, but there is one thing about his past that has haunted him for his entire existence, and that is the belief that he has a twin brother. While visiting the Rapturous Church of Christ Jesus, Westley meets Kate Angier, and discovers that their meeting is not at all coincidental. Kate is the great-granddaughter of magician Rupert Angier, and from the time she was a small girl she has lived with a terrible secret. Kate is convinced that as a girl she witnessed a murder; the murder of a young boy who is now the man Andrew Westley. Together through Westley's book about Borden, and Kate's dairy of her great-grandfather Rupert Angier, they must try to piece together their family histories in order to understand the events that have haunted them since childhood. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Critical Evaluation</span><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">The Prestige</span> is a novel that explores the rivalry between accomplished stage magicians Rupert Angier and Alfred Borden. Author Christopher Priest tip toes the line between fantasy and science fiction in this tale of secrets, deception, and sabotage. The Great Magicians never reveal their secrets in life, and like a great magician, Christopher Priest leaves it up to readers to determine if what they are reading is in fact actual magic and fantasy, a scientific feat, or just another clever trick. Priest explores the lives of the novel's famed magicians through a published book given to Alfred Borden's great-grandson Andrew Westley, and through Rupert Angier's diary, that is now in the possession of his great-granddaughter Kate Angier. Together Kate Angier and Andrew Westley explore the literature of their family histories in order to understand events from their childhood that have been shrouded in mystery. Readers learn about the Angier and Borden family histories as Andrew and Kate discover the men who shaped their lives more than 100 years ago. <br /><br />Priest divides his novel into five different sections that alternate between the current story involving Kate and Andrew, and the diary entries detailing Borden and Angier's past. Mixing diary entries with the current action of the story's plot creates an interesting pace. Reader's plunge into the lives of Borden and Angier, and just when secrets begin to be revealed, readers are forced to come up for air. The dairy element of the story also raises questions about the reliability of the narrators. The last thing a magician wants is for the world to know about his secrets and his life. Priest doesn't provide any easy answers for his readers, and in doing so, forces them to put together the pieces to the puzzle just as Andrew Westley and Kate Angier struggle to. Priest explores themes of deceit and deception with subtle ease in his web of mysterious pasts. The lives of his interesting characters are the strongest part of this fantastic tale, and readers will delight in learning how the lives of these feuding and intriguing men, can hauntingly effect the lives of their descendants. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reader's Annotation</span><br />Rivalry can be an unexpected and deadly matter. For magicians Alfred Borden and Rupert Angier, rivalry is everything, and protecting secrets isn't a way of life, it's a way to make a living. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Author Information</span><br />Christopher Priest is an award winning English author that works predominantly in the genres of fantasy, science fiction, and horror. His novels and short stories have been honored with several Hugo nominations, and his novel <span style="font-style:italic;">The Prestige</span>, received a World Fantasy Award in 1996. <span style="font-style:italic;">The Prestige</span> was also adapted into a film in 2006 by director Christopher Nolan. The film version of The Prestige was nominated for two Academy awards in the categories of Best Art Direction and Best Cinematography. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Genre</span><br />fantasy, urban fantasy<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Curriculum Ties</span><br />Victorian life, Tesla<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Book Talking Ideas</span><br />How are magic and science different, and how are they similar?<br />Secrets and how secrets can tear lives apart. <br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Reading Level</span><br />Grades 9+<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Challenge Issues</span><br />violence<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Challenge defense ideas:</span><br />1. Make sure you are familiar with your library collection and the book in question.<br />2. Be familiar with your library collection policy.<br />3. If possible, speak with the person challenging the material and make sure they feel comfortable. Ask the customer what they disliked or disapproved of in the resource. If they still insist on challenging the material give them instructions on how to file a formal complaint.<br />4. Research professional reviews that speak to the material's merit, and get input from teen readers on why they found the book important.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reason For Selection</span><br />I really enjoyed the film adaptation of this novel, and because of the popularity of the film, I felt that the book would appeal to teenage readers. I'm glad that I read the novel, and I enjoyed the differences in the novel's structure compared to the film. The book focuses on diary entries from the magicians Borden and Angier, and also details a modern story involving their great-grandchildren. The great-grandchildren story arc was axed in the film, and this is something that works really well in the novel. This novel will be popular for teens interested in urban fantasy, the cinema, and magic.The Love Prawnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000894404062972132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-287879587180024196.post-57771998811979815372010-05-05T10:00:00.001-07:002010-05-17T00:04:35.167-07:0019. Around the World in Eighty Days<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaScPtJjzECkJKU6hrj6IEyygVQ6uakMJJldiXyjDbFpHxh8CgjLH-J-T3wUQuAP7Kw6WcDv99pzStk_RCIlFzLU5Fp7HmBTbMcnCCk_g4_iEn3VdBnzjoxoiSerBBeI97vjjSI-J0iPs/s1600/80+Days.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 122px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaScPtJjzECkJKU6hrj6IEyygVQ6uakMJJldiXyjDbFpHxh8CgjLH-J-T3wUQuAP7Kw6WcDv99pzStk_RCIlFzLU5Fp7HmBTbMcnCCk_g4_iEn3VdBnzjoxoiSerBBeI97vjjSI-J0iPs/s200/80+Days.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5470409371360800418" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Plot Summary</span><br />Phileas Fogg is a man of mystery. He lives a life of precision and schedule, and abhors distraction and disruption. Mr. Fogg's only social interaction seems to come from the gentlemen's Reform Club, where he spends hours on end involved with his favorite card game whist. The routine life Mr. Fogg leads changes forever when he hires a new servant named Passepartout, and when a small dispute amongst club members turns into a full on bet about the possibility of traveling around the world in eighty days. This bet is spurred by an article in the newspaper discussing a new railway system in India. Without hesitation, Mr. Fogg bets a group of club members that he can do what the newspaper claims, and travel around the world successfully in eighty days for a wager of 20,000 pounds. The men accept and Fogg sets out immediately with his servant Passepartout in tow. <br /> <br />Fogg's trip from the beginning is riddled with setbacks. Mistaking his identity for a bank robber, Fogg is trailed by the persistent Scotland yard detective Fix, who must strategically wait until Fogg is located in British territory before he can make an arrest. The villainous attempts of Fix to imprison the adventurous Fogg, are foiled time after time as Fogg makes his way around the world. With each new mode of transportation and each new country, there are new set of problems to deal with. Fogg must overcome faulty suspension bridges, wild bison, lack of fuel for his passage across the atlantic, Sioux indians, and even a duel to defend the honor of the women he loves. His entertaining voyage is a classic tale of heroism and adventure, and is filled with enjoyable interruptions and improvisation that turns a trip on schedule into a comic caper, and a thrill to the very finish. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Critical Evaluation</span><br />Jules Verne's <span style="font-style:italic;">Around the World in Eighty Days</span> is a masterpiece of adventure literature. Today we take world travel for granted, but at the time of the novel's publication in 1872, traveling around the world for an average man was an idea that was just emerging. The transcontinental railroad in America had recently reached completion, the suez canal was in operation, and India had just linked together their railway system. Verne capitalized on the idea of world travel by crafting a story that appeals to the thrill of exploration and adventurous nature of the human spirit. His entertaining classic is navigated by the mysterious and steadfast Englishman Phileas Fogg. This man's foggy past is overshadowed by his drive, determination, and quick thinking. As a character, Fogg is intriguing, and forces readers to ponder his past in order to understand his expertise as a world traveler. For a very new idea, Fogg seems to be right at home with navigating the treacherous landscapes of the developing world. Fogg's determination is equally matched by the Scotland Yard detective, Mr. Fix, who risks his livelihood and reputation to capture a bank robber he suspects is Fogg. This cat and mouse relationship is humorous and entertaining on its own, but the story receives an added comical punch with the entertaining actions of Fogg's bumbling servant Passepartout. What Fogg has in experience, Passepartout lacks, and in no time at all he is missing important departures, finding himself drugged, and even as a worker in a circus. The addition of a love interest also adds another interesting level to Fogg's adventure when he rescues a woman named Aouda who is scheduled to be sacrificed. <br /><br />Verne's <span style="font-style:italic;">Around the World in Eighty Days </span>is a strong adventure novel because of the exciting nature of the story and the interesting and humorous characters who inhabit it. The race against the clock nature of the story adds an exciting element to the story. With each setback, Fogg uses his reserve and intellect to outsmart his dire situations. This novel is as much a joy to read today as it must have been for those experiencing it during the birth of global travel. The influence this novel has had in the adventure genre of literature is profound, and the race creates a pace that readers will find enjoyable and memorable.<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Reader's Annotation</span><br />For an Englishman living in 19th century London, a bet is not a trivial matter. Phileas Fogg has made such a bet with a group of respectable men, and now he must stick to it by traveling around the world in a mere eighty days. <br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Author Information</span><br />Jules Verne is a French author best known for his works of adventure and science fiction. Born in 1828, Verne quickly developed a passion for boating, exploration, and travel. At the age of 12 Verne even tried to sneak aboard an Indian sailing vessel, only to be caught and whipped by his father. This thrill of adventure and the technological advancements of travel would later shape his career as an author. Verne began his career as a stockbroker to support himself until he was able to make a living on his writing. Verne made friends with other prominent writers like Victor Hugo and Alexander Dumas, but it wasn't until he met French publisher Pierre-Jules Hetzel that his career would take off. Through Hetzel, Verne would go on to publish his most classic works, which include: <span style="font-style:italic;">Journey to the Centre of the Earth</span> (1864), <span style="font-style:italic;">From the Earth to the Moon</span> (1865), <span style="font-style:italic;">Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea</span> (1869), and <span style="font-style:italic;">Around the World in Eighty Days</span> (1872). Verne's groundbreaking work in the genre of science fiction has lead him to be referred to as the "father of science fiction." His books today are just as thrilling and captivating for readers as they were when they were published over 100 years age. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Genre</span><br />adventure<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Curriculum Ties</span><br />travel, the transcontinental railroad, the suez canal. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Book Talking Ideas</span><br />How has transportation and travel changed since the publication of Around the World in Eighty Days?<br />How has the novel influenced pop-culture?<br />Re-enact the wager scene.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reading Level</span><br />Grades 7+<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Challenge Issues</span><br />drug use, human sacrifice<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Challenge defense ideas:</span><br />1. Make sure you are familiar with your library collection and the book in question.<br />2. Be familiar with your library collection policy.<br />3. If possible, speak with the person challenging the material and make sure they feel comfortable. Ask the customer what they disliked or disapproved of in the resource. If they still insist on challenging the material give them instructions on how to file a formal complaint.<br />4. Research professional reviews that speak to the material's merit, and get input from teen readers on why they found the book important.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reason For Selection</span><br />I wanted to include at least one of the classics in my blog, and after reading <span style="font-style:italic;">Capt. Hook</span>, I thought I would give the adventure genre another go. <span style="font-style:italic;">Around the World in Eighty days</span> is a story I feel that many teens are familiar with because of the cinema and pop culture references, but I think it can and should be a valued part of their reading experience as well. With the popularity of television shows like <span style="font-style:italic;">The Amazing Race</span>, <span style="font-style:italic;">Around the World in Eighty Days </span>may be relevant now more than ever.The Love Prawnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000894404062972132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-287879587180024196.post-2421442256571035272010-04-30T16:42:00.003-07:002010-05-17T01:07:47.592-07:0020. The Good Neighbors<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilTA2wNJQ4NX1cAEg9IE-pxm5BP-9mJIpAVjJG0i2p9yj0iR3J9CW5GI59PQN9ncw-B2cniL4nq-2DpjkCmPRxf-4d0jhvKAUyJLfHokNUVV-CxhVfhal88F363bRx83O2OvkylZRqLeg/s1600/kin.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 135px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilTA2wNJQ4NX1cAEg9IE-pxm5BP-9mJIpAVjJG0i2p9yj0iR3J9CW5GI59PQN9ncw-B2cniL4nq-2DpjkCmPRxf-4d0jhvKAUyJLfHokNUVV-CxhVfhal88F363bRx83O2OvkylZRqLeg/s200/kin.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5466705559354470530" /></a><br /><br />Black, Holly. The Good Neighbors. ISBN: 978-0-439-85562-4. Graphix. First Edition, 2008.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Plot Summary</span><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">The Good Neighbor’s Book One Kin</span> is written in the same vain as Black’s Modern Faerie Tale series. Black’s female protagonist, Rue Silver, spends her days hanging out with friends, exploring abandoned structures, and going to coffee shops. Her nights are spent watching performances by her boyfriend’s punk band. Rue Silver is any edgy, unique, teenage girl, which is part of her appeal, however, Rue Silver is not a girl at all, and soon she discovers that she is the daughter of a faerie. After an argument between her parents, Rue’s mother disappears leaving the father devastated. One of Mr. Silver’s students turns up dead and he becomes the suspect in both a murder and missing persons case. While Rue digs deeper into her family history, she starts to notice strange irregularities, her mother doesn’t have a birth certificate or a marriage license, and she appears to look the same age in every photo. Rue also starts to see strange creatures, and after speaking with a faerie at school and conducting research, she discovers her mother’s true identity. <br /><br />She also meets her grandfather, Aubrey, who is a ruler in the world of Faerie. She learns that her grandfather has discovered that only a family member can overthrow his rule, and he suspects that Rue is the one capable of doing so. While keeping a careful eye on his grand daughter, Rue’s mother finally returns, her father is cleared of all charges, and she has to deal with her failing and complicated relationship. Rue quickly notices her mother acting out of character when she fails to answer questions about their shared memories. Tragically, and suddenly, her mother passes away, and at the story’s cliffhanger ending, Rue and her friends dig up her mother’s grave to discover a changeling in her place, constructed of sticks and twine <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Critical Evaluation</span><br />The graphic novel format works well for Black's <span style="font-style:italic;">The Good Neighbors</span>, and would really work well for any of Black’s work because the world and landscapes she paints with her words are so vivid and descriptive. Her emphasis on the theme of betrayal in this title adds to the bleakness and despair demonstrated in artist Ted Naifeh’s illustrations. Choosing Naifeh’s stark and beautiful art style to accompany Black’s dark and romantic world of Faerie, was the perfect amalgamation of talent for this project. Naifeh portrays Black’s vision of Faerie through his otherworldly pen and ink illustrations, which are both beautiful and dangerous. His harsh use of lines paint a captivating and alluring portrayal of faerie demeanor. He also has the uncanny ability to set the tone of the novel through his detailed backgrounds. The world he creates is inhabited by cracked stones, broken windows, dense foliage, and decay. His ability to portray mood through scenery, helps to enhance the visual nature of Black’s words. The success of Kin has lead to the publication of <span style="font-style:italic;">The Good Neighbors Book 2 Kith</span>, and a third title is currently in the works. Black has established herself as a talented up and comer in the comic book industry and readers are flocking to her dark illustrated tales of urban fantasy. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reader's Annotation</span><br />When your mother is missing and your father is accused of murder, finding out you're a faerie might not be so bad after all. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Author Information</span><br />Holly Black is a bestselling fantasy author for teens and children. She is currently working on a graphic novel series called <span style="font-style:italic;">The Good Neighbors</span> as well as novel about curses called <span style="font-style:italic;">The White Cat</span>. When she isn't drinking coffee, or reading in her secret library, she enjoys playing with her cats, and writing in her journal at: http://blackholly.livejournal.com<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Genre</span><br />graphic novel, urban fantasy<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Curriculum Ties</span><br />fantasy art<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Book Talking Ideas</span><br />Family secrets and betrayal.<br />How does Rue feel when she discovers that her entire life has been a lie?<br />Would you consider being a faerie a good or bad thing?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reading Level</span><br />Grades 8+<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Challenge Issues</span><br />violence, murder<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Challenge defense ideas:</span><br />1. Make sure you are familiar with your library collection and the book in question.<br />2. Be familiar with your library collection policy.<br />3. If possible, speak with the person challenging the material and make sure they feel comfortable. Ask the customer what they disliked or disapproved of in the resource. If they still insist on challenging the material give them instructions on how to file a formal complaint.<br />4. Research professional reviews that speak to the material's merit, and get input from teen readers on why they found the book important.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reason For Selection</span><br />I read this title for my author/genre assignment and really became intrigued with the portrayal of pure fantasy in the graphic novel format. Graphic novels as I knew them were a medium dominated by superheros, so to experience graphic depiction of faeries and other fantastic creatures was not only unique but enjoyable. Volunteering in the library this year I have really noticed how popular graphic novels are amongst teen readers. For the purpose of this blog assignment I wanted to include a range of as many graphic novel genres as I possibly could. <span style="font-style:italic;">The Good Neighbors </span>fits into that small niche genre of Graphic Faerie fiction, and because of the specificity of subject matter, is an important title to become familiar with.The Love Prawnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000894404062972132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-287879587180024196.post-18515568364838907142010-04-30T16:42:00.001-07:002010-05-16T20:46:19.983-07:0021. Valiant<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-qyN9olRfzqgX_QDK_LmCKU_ExTKNHpC8z9AuhowuZpnOwfwuOl4Ec6fNae2v1v3-p-g3pG_xX2Xj4KDhhC7LSXDXsgVn6vRHc2XV_26fFbKGoEOF1yEGGqmVuE7NQsUi2cDovjPkm-I/s1600/Valiant.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 132px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-qyN9olRfzqgX_QDK_LmCKU_ExTKNHpC8z9AuhowuZpnOwfwuOl4Ec6fNae2v1v3-p-g3pG_xX2Xj4KDhhC7LSXDXsgVn6vRHc2XV_26fFbKGoEOF1yEGGqmVuE7NQsUi2cDovjPkm-I/s200/Valiant.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5466706318122029378" /></a><br /><br />Black, Holly. Valiant. ISBN: 978-0-689-86822-1. Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers. First Edition, 2005.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Plot Summary</span><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Valiant</span> is the account of a 17-year-old tomboy named Valerie Russell, who after catching her boyfriend Tom and mother in a moment of intimacy, flees to New York City. Feeling lost and betrayed, Valerie shaves her head and wanders the streets of New York until she befriends a group of homeless runaways. Valerie’s new friends Lollipop and Sketchy Dave introduce Valerie to their life in the abandoned underground of New York City’s subway system. Valerie is also introduced to Dave’s brother Luis, who functions as the leader and mediator of the group in their task of serving the troll Ravus. Luis has “the sight”, passed down from his father, making him able to see and communicate with faeries in New York. Luis and Dave deliver a potion they call “Nevermore” made by Ravus to faerie folk living in exile in New York City. “Nevermore” acts as a protection against iron for faeries so that they are able to keep up their glamoured appearances.<br /><br />“Nevermore” is meant to be used by faeries only, but Lollipop and Dave start injecting the potion to get high and Valerie ends up becoming hooked on the drug with them. Valerie becomes entangled further in the “Nevermore” underworld when she and Lolli are caught breaking into Ravus’ home. As punishment, Valerie must serve Ravus for all the items that Lolli tried to steal. Ravus puts Valerie on “Nevermore” delivery duty and soon after faeries on her delivery route turn up poisoned and dead.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Critical Evaluation</span><br />Black's second novel in the modern Faerie tale series takes a slight departure from her previous storyline presented in Tithe. Valiant is an urban fantasy with a much more human element compared to Black's previous work. Through her human character's she explores themes of depression, homelessness, and drug abuse. These very real problems will strike a chord with readers, and by adding supernatural elements to each of these issues, she dresses up her problems in layers of alluring fantasy. <span style="font-style:italic;">Valiant</span> takes the gritty style of Holly Black’s urban faerie fantasy further by incorporating issues and themes important to teens today. By introducing issues of drug abuse, infidelity, homelessness, and family betrayal, Black’s bleak look at urban life is brought to the forefront. Teens today have friends who use drugs, see the homeless problem on street corners across America, and live in less than ideal family situations.<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Valiant</span> shows that even a normal athletic teenage girl can join the wrong crowd, spiral out of control, and lose her way. By living vicariously through Valerie, teens can help to make sense of their own life decisions. They are able to understand the hazards of drug use, the homeless lifestyle, and the feelings of betrayal without being told how to feel. This book can also be used by teens experiencing these issues as a coping mechanism, to illustrate that even an addict can overcome her addiction and lead a normal life again. The action in the story is upbeat, intense, and keeps readers turning the pages. The third person narrative style works well for the second book in the series allowing Black to explore the thoughts of the story’s different human and non-human characters. The constant action sets the pace for this tale of betrayal, murder, and revenge.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reader's Annotation</span><br />Imagine catching your mom and boyfriend making out. Now imagine running away to New York City, living underground, and becoming the servant of a troll.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Author Information</span><br />Holly Black is a bestselling fantasy author for teens and children. She is currently working on a graphic novel series called <span style="font-style:italic;">The Good Neighbors</span> as well as a novel about curses called <span style="font-style:italic;">The White Cat</span>. When she isn't drinking coffee, or reading in her secret library, she enjoys playing with her cats, and writing in her journal at: http://blackholly.livejournal.com<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Genre</span><br />urban Fantasy<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Curriculum Ties</span><br />substance abuse<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Book Talking Ideas</span><br />How does drug use destroy Valerie's life?<br />Forbidden love<br />How is Valerie betrayed in Valiant?<br />How does Valerie prove her courage and bravery?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reading Level</span><br />grades 10+<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Challenge Issues</span><br />drug abuse, homelessness, violence, sex<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Challenge defense ideas:</span><br />1. Make sure you are familiar with your library collection and the book in question.<br />2. Be familiar with your library collection policy.<br />3. If possible, speak with the person challenging the material and make sure they feel comfortable. Ask the customer what they disliked or disapproved of in the resource. If they still insist on challenging the material give them instructions on how to file a formal complaint.<br />4. Research professional reviews that speak to the material's merit, and get input from teen readers on why they found the book important.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reason For Selection</span><br />After reading several of Holly Black's urban fantasy novels for my author/genre study, I have decided to include this title for review because of the serious issues of drug abuse and homelessness it discusses. These are two issues that teens can read about in order to learn more and also to use as a means to cope.The Love Prawnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000894404062972132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-287879587180024196.post-18579334818454777502010-04-30T16:37:00.001-07:002010-05-16T20:42:09.518-07:0022. Mad Magazine<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKiLTcq5oABKNgqJeNDum-F5tTK15DvxVdWj5qU40TWaIak5viqp-rdqO4RdvJ7Cr2EHvsdxBplLaiZMvwcEEstmYyoaBPQaBos5eG_O2TBQzFIwZTvm-Shof-MSGHfHEEICr7LupbxXA/s1600/Mad2.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 157px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKiLTcq5oABKNgqJeNDum-F5tTK15DvxVdWj5qU40TWaIak5viqp-rdqO4RdvJ7Cr2EHvsdxBplLaiZMvwcEEstmYyoaBPQaBos5eG_O2TBQzFIwZTvm-Shof-MSGHfHEEICr7LupbxXA/s200/Mad2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5467844242594311186" /></a><br /><br /><br />Mad Magazine Staff. (2010). Mad Magazine, #503, $5.99. New York, NY: EC Publications<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Magazine Information</span><br />The humorous <span style="font-style:italic;">Mad Magazine</span> was founded in 1952 by Harvey Kurtzman, and originally ran as a comic book for E.C. publications before taking shape in the magazine format. The change to the Magazine format allowed for MAD to operate outside the Comics Code. As of 2010, the magazine has successfully reached over 500 issues, and now operates as a bi-monthly publication for D.C. comics and Warner Brothers.<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Mad Magazine</span> takes current pop culture, political news, and sports topics, then runs them through a blender of humor and satire. The magazine is filled with comic book and cartoon style art to illustrate the various parodies, reoccurring strips, and columns. The various exaggerated art styles of Mad artists add even more humor to the crude and clever articles. The popular <span style="font-style:italic;">Spy vs. Spy</span> comic strip can be found within its pages as well as a folding page that reveals a unique image at the end of the magazine. The magazine also features a caricature rendition of mascot Alfred E. Nueman on each cover, which typically plays on current events. This magazine helps readers to find the humor in the misleading behavior of the American media, and provides nonstop comedy from start to finish.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Critical Evaluation</span><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Mad Magazine</span> has been a source of comedy and parody, depicting pop culture, film, television, and political figures for over 50 years. Before <span style="font-style:italic;">Saturday Night Live</span>, before our spoof news television shows, there was Alfred E. Nueman and the talented writers and artists of <span style="font-style:italic;">Mad Magazine</span> who devoted their professional lives to creating and delivering groundbreaking and influential comedy for American readers. This crude, often sexual, and violent humor places our media and culture into the spotlight, and allows readers to laugh at the garbage and lies spoon fed through American media outlets. <br /><br />Current issues make fun of the infidelity of Tiger Woods, the promises of Barrack Obama, and the ridiculous plot of James Cameron's <span style="font-style:italic;">Avatar</span>. The humor is evoked through the clever and media rich writing of Mad's staff writers and their play on words and popular news stories. A recent article is titled "Tiger Cheat" instead of "Tiger Beat," a magazine for teens, and depicts tiger woods surrounded by the girls in the media who claim to have been involved with him. Playing on words, a popular news story, and a magazine for teenage girls makes an article like this clever on a variety of levels. These clever articles and columns are enhanced by a variety of cartoon and caricature art styles, that suite the nature of the comedy. This magazine will appeal to fans of pop culture, comedy, and teenagers because of the comic inspired artwork and parody of popular media.<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Reader's Annotation</span><br />Reality television stars, bumbling politicians, and unfaithful athletes have a common enemy that they are unaware of. That enemy is the humorous and outrageous<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Genre</span><br />humor, Satire<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Curriculum Ties</span><br />politics, sports, communications<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Book Talking Ideas</span><br />Why is satire necessary in society?<br />What kinds of humor are distinctly American?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reading Level</span><br />grades 9+<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Challenge Issues</span><br />sex, language, violence<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Challenge defense ideas:</span><br />1. Make sure you are familiar with your library collection and the book in question.<br />2. Be familiar with your library collection policy.<br />3. If possible, speak with the person challenging the material and make sure they feel comfortable. Ask the customer what they disliked or disapproved of in the resource. If they still insist on challenging the material give them instructions on how to file a formal complaint.<br />4. Research professional reviews that speak to the material's merit, and get input from teen readers on why they found the book important.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reason For Selection</span><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Mad Magazine</span> was located in the young adult section of my local library and I realized that I had never actually read an issue. I have always been familiar with the image of Alfred E. Nueman, and after thumbing through the pages of a couple of issues, the humor and cartoon art really jumped out at me. The magazine discusses pop culture, sports, politics, and presents itself in a very nonsensical way. The topics and art discussed in this magazine, I feel, are very relevant and alluring for a teen audience.The Love Prawnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000894404062972132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-287879587180024196.post-67812664471145474712010-04-30T16:34:00.003-07:002010-05-16T20:35:16.074-07:0023. Seventeen Magazine<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYa3XDeuvUkrLZ6AfmZ1NFndSXBNnaXvOBi-_a9yTF3om47s9BiYq8dEYZBGb5ou_MjnAvzYg_5YtQtvIRuL9gGaTPU5HaynnRjWPjBV6WEQ126fuGhcNSgcJ0ONx9Gs0E6fQKCxNbHic/s1600/Seventeen.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 153px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYa3XDeuvUkrLZ6AfmZ1NFndSXBNnaXvOBi-_a9yTF3om47s9BiYq8dEYZBGb5ou_MjnAvzYg_5YtQtvIRuL9gGaTPU5HaynnRjWPjBV6WEQ126fuGhcNSgcJ0ONx9Gs0E6fQKCxNbHic/s200/Seventeen.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5467866958022470098" /></a><br /><br />Seventeen Staff. (2010). Seventeen, 69(5), $5.99. New York, NY: Hearst Magazines.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Magazine Information</span><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Seventeen</span> magazine, first published in 1944, is read by over 13 million people every month, making it the highest selling beauty and fashion magazine around. Each issue delves into fashion, beauty secrets, relationship advice, celebrities, entertainment, and health issues for teenage girls. The cover of each issue features a talented up and coming teenage star, articles by magazine editor Ann Shoket, and page after page of glossy fashion and beauty product advertisements. At the end of each issue the magazine also includes a section of embarrassing stories submitted by teen readers, and horoscopes for the month. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Critical Evaluation</span><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Seventeen</span> magazine is a visual explosion of all things popular and trendy for the teenage girl demographic. Each issue is filled with bright photographic spreads of celebrities and attractive teenage girls modeling the latest fashions and trends. Visually, the magazine utilizes every square inch of available space for the latest lipstick or summer shoes. The jumbled and busy layout of the articles and mass amounts of photographs give the magazine a collage feel for each of its double spread compositions. The few articles that exist amongst the mass amounts of advertisements, are brief, to the point, and often consist of nothing more than a couple of quotes. The magazine also features a few very important articles on female health inside each issue. These health related articles discuss everything from proper diet and exercise, to the hazards of excessive suntanning. Articles like these provide important educational knowledge for teenage girls, who might not seek out information on health issues otherwise. <br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Seventeen</span> magazine, despite its simple articles, and emphasis on advertisements, has the ability to get teenage girls reading. Fashion and beauty, are for many teens a way of life, and unfortunately seventeen magazine promotes an image of beauty that for many teens is unobtainable. The slender, good looking, teenage model is plastered across every page, helping teenage girls to form their ideas and perceptions of teenage beauty. While this is the case, many of the magazine's articles will help teenagers to lead healthy lifestyles. The magazine will also function as a research tool for teen readers interested in working in the fashion industry. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reader's Annotation</span><br />For teenage girls looking for fashion, beauty, and relationship advice, look no further than the pages of <span style="font-style:italic;">Seventeen</span> magazine. With bright colored text, large detailed celebrity and fashion photographs, and page after page of advertising, teenage girls can disappear into the world of beauty, celebrity, and commerce. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Genre</span><br />fashion, beauty<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Curriculum Ties</span><br />fashion, advertising<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Book Talking Ideas</span><br />How does our society view beauty?<br />What makes something fashionable?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reading Level</span><br />Grades 8+<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Challenge Issues</span><br />sex<br /><br />Challenge defense ideas:<br />1. Make sure you are familiar with your library collection and the magazine in question.<br />2. Be familiar with your library collection policy.<br />3. If possible, speak with the person challenging the material and make sure they feel comfortable. Ask the customer what they disliked or disapproved of in the resource. If they still insist on challenging the material, give them instructions on how to file a formal complaint.<br />4. Research professional reviews that speak to the material's merit, and get input from teen readers on why they found the book important.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reason For Selection</span><br />Including materials for teenage girls is important in rounding out this blog, and also for my own knowledge in understanding what teenage girls are reading.The Love Prawnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000894404062972132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-287879587180024196.post-4634767413196954282010-04-30T16:34:00.001-07:002010-05-16T20:28:52.156-07:0024. Nintendo Power<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLwMlxs4zSun9qTEm75CuVL872bPAk1nRGZPZ761Ute_HbqAseXWlw28FuFgDB2FCbFaScnqXRaUDFQ9Le7HN2nv69WyQySjK4ZXxtDas-li7-QVCfYzLm7DzcUkG4DUFx6ja0p8lBIOo/s1600/Nintendo+Power.png"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 152px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLwMlxs4zSun9qTEm75CuVL872bPAk1nRGZPZ761Ute_HbqAseXWlw28FuFgDB2FCbFaScnqXRaUDFQ9Le7HN2nv69WyQySjK4ZXxtDas-li7-QVCfYzLm7DzcUkG4DUFx6ja0p8lBIOo/s200/Nintendo+Power.png" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5470094602250656866" /></a><br /><br />Nintendo Staff. (May 2010). Nintendo Power, Issue #254, $19.95 yearly subscription. San Francisco, CA: Future US.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Magazine Information</span><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Nintendo Power</span> magazine has been in publication since its first issue in 1988. This groundbreaking first issue features <span style="font-style:italic;">Super Mario Brothers 2</span> on the cover, and since this issue <span style="font-style:italic;">Nintendo power</span> has gone on to produce over 200 issues. Many of the early issues also featured strategy guides for upcoming Nintendo titles. The magazine today features reviews and previews of Nintendo games for both console and handheld systems. The magazine also features a section titled "pulse" that allows Nintendo fans to write in to staff members asking all of their Nintendo related questions. New issues feature a "downloads" section that analyzes downloadable content for WiiWare, DSiWare, and the Nintendo Virtual Console. The magazine also reminds readers of its successful history, with a section titled "playback," that features reviews of popular games from Nintendo's classic consoles. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Critical Evaluation</span><br />Will user generated content be the future of video games? Will <span style="font-style:italic;">Super Mario Galaxy 2</span> be the top rated game of the decade? Questions like these, and many more, are explored and answered in the pages of Nintendo's offical magazine <span style="font-style:italic;">Nintendo Power</span>. <span style="font-style:italic;">Nintendo Power</span> features fan letters, reviews and previews of new video games, gaming news, interviews, featured stories, and a preview of upcoming issues. Aside from the wealth of information presented in each issue, the articles and stories are well written, at times humorous, and always informative. The reviews are authoritative and staff writers are not hesitant to be critical. Based on a number system, reviews range from 1-10, with 10 being the highest score and 1 being the lowest score possible. These in depth reviews also feature video game screen grabs that present gaming action relevant to the content discussed in each review. Along with including new reviews, each issue of <span style="font-style:italic;">Nintendo Power</span> features a review archive with abridged versions of reviews from the past magazine year. The comprehensiveness and attention to detail in each issue is not spent solely on current gaming issues and concerns. <span style="font-style:italic;">Nintendo Power</span> pays homage to the history of Nintendo consoles and games through a "playback" section that reviews classic games from Nintendo's past, such as <span style="font-style:italic;">Mega Man 64 </span>in the magazine's most current 2010 issue. <br /><br />Nintendo Power goes the distance to give video game fans a look into the world of Nintendo beyond the games and systems. Each issue features a "Power Profiles" section that gives a behind the scenes look at what it's like to work in the video game industry. These interviews give advice to teens thinking about video game design as a career, making it an important career tool for library staff and teachers. The magazine also features interviews with Nintendo legends like Mario creator Shigeru Miyamoto. These interviews give gaming fans valuable insight into the company and the direction it's headed. Because of the ability of the Nintendo Wii and DS to connect online, Nintendo Power also features an in depth section reviewing new downloadable games and also classic games that have been re-released for the Nintendo Virtual Console. Nintendo embraces the benefits of new technology in each issue by detailing future projects, and they also pay tribute to their fans by answering emails and showcasing fan created content in their "Community" section. As a magazine, <span style="font-style:italic;">Nintendo Power</span> is so much more than a compilation of reviews and articles, it is a guide for the future of gaming. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reader's Annotation</span><br />The Nintendo Company has produced some of the most popular game consoles and characters in video game history. Gamers interested in learning about the latest products for the Nintendo Wii and Handheld DS, and also about Nintendo's past classcs, have to look no further than the pages of<span style="font-style:italic;"> Nintendo Power</span> magazine. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Genre</span><br />Video games<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Curriculum Ties</span><br />Video game programming<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Book Talking Ideas</span><br />How has the Nintendo gaming console changed over the years?<br />Why are Nintendo's characters so popular amongst gamers?<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Reading Level</span><br />Grades 6+<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Challenge Issues</span><br />N/A<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Reason For Selection</span><br />With the popularity of the Nintendo Wii and handheld DS amongst teenage gamers, I felt that a review of <span style="font-style:italic;">Nintendo Power</span> magazine was necessary for this blog. <span style="font-style:italic;">Nintendo Power</span> is the essential source for all things Nintendo, from reviews, news, and merchandise to interviews and articles featuring top video game designers and manufacturers. This was a magazine that I read growing up in the early 1990's and it is still relevant for teenagers today because of Nintendo's continued adaptation to new technology and effort to meet gamer expectations and needs.The Love Prawnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000894404062972132noreply@blogger.com0