SERENA

RAMIREZ'S
BOOK JOURNAL

GLMS602
Professor Crossman
 (1): Efren Divided
Title: Efren Divided
Author and/or Illustrator: Ernesto Cisneros
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Format: Book
Number of Pages: 272
Award Won and Year of Award: 2021 Pura Belpré Children's Award
Why do you think it won this award?: In the chapter book Efren Divided, the reader is introduced to Efren. Efren is a
hard working- respectable student. He is a great son and brother and seems to be a very reliable friend. Although
Efren lives in a studio apartment with mattresses on the floor, Efren's mother is able to substitute for their lack of
resources with love. Unfortunately Efren's mother is deported to Mexico while on a job interview during an ICE raid
and Efren's life is turned upside down. I think this book won the Pura Belpre' Children's Award because Ernesto
Cisneros not only created a book focusing on LatinX characters but he also focused on a challenge many undocument
immigrants are experiencing and the fear of deportation. This book truly gives the sad reality families are
experiencing from the detailed section when Efren goes into Mexico to give his mother money for the Coyote to help
return her to the border. This book was well written and an amazing window to the sad reality that is going on in
America.
How would you use this book with students?:
I would use this book as a book club after school with students or even a co-teaching assignment with 5th graders,
especially since they learned about human rights.
 (2) We Are Water Protectors
Title: We Are Water Protectors
Author and/or Illustrator: Carole Lindstrom/ Michaela Goade
Genre: Fiction
Format: Picture Book
Number of Pages: 40
Award Won and Year of Award: 2021 Caldecott
Why do you think it won this award?:
In the children's book We Are Water Protectors, the author tries to convey the message that water is essential to the Earth, nature,
humans and animals. It opens with a Native American little girl and her grandma explaining how "water was the first medicine." She
discusses how water kept us healthy in our mother's womb as well as the Earth. This book has beautiful traditional Native America images
of the people creating music to show their appreciation for water. The story continues comparing pipes to a black snake that is causing
harm to our water supply. It is from this part on that the story focuses on working together to protect water for everyone. We are all
connected (mother nature, animals, the earth and humans) and we need to be the water protectors. This book definitely won the Caldecott
Medal because it's amazing illustrations that portray the Ojibwa culture and connection to the words to preserve water. Each page has
intricate patterns and detailed characters with vibrant beautiful colors.
How would you use this book with students?:
This book can serve as a beautiful read aloud to reinforce water preservation (possibly a persuasive writing or speech showcase). This book
can also be used to try to create similar art patterns like the book. This book could align to the 2nd grade science curriculum which focuses
on The Water Cycle. This book can be an informative piece to explain how important water is to everyone on the Earth.
 (3) Last Stop On Market Street
Title: Last Stop on Market Street
Author and/or Illustrator: Christian Robinson
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Format: Book
Number of Pages: 32 pages
Award Won and Year of Award: 2016 Newbery (Correta Scott King Honor and Caldecott Honor)
Why do you think it won this award?: In the picture book Last Stop on Market Street, Cj and his Nana leave
church to take the bus to the last stop on market street. On this bus ride Cj sees interesting and kind people, he sees
the beautiful lively magic outside during his ride. When Cj and Nana reach Market Street the neighborhood Cj
points out how rundown it is. It is at the point in the story the reader learns Cj was going to a soup kitchen to
volunteer and it is then when he appreciates his experience. I believe Last Stop on Market Street won a Newbery
Medal because the story was very relatable for children who live in urban communities. It also is a very telling
story of a little boy who learns to appreciate his ride to the soup kitchen while taking in all that was around him. I
feel this book is easy to relate to as well as provides opportunities for diverse children to see themselves in the
book. I believe this book also recieved Caldecott honor because the illustrations depict the urban in a unique artsy
way and really brings the story to life.
How would you use this book with students?:
I would use this book as a read aloud to explore types of communities or even a senses activity to explore their
community. This book can easily be used in K-2nd grade curriculum focusing on communities, family
relationships, social emotional and even writing. Teachers could use this text as a model text to support their
 (4) The One and Only Ivan
Title: The One and Only Ivan
Author and/or Illustrator: Katherine Applegate
Genre: Fiction
Format: Book
Number of Pages: 325 pages
Award Won and Year of Award: 2013 Newbery Award
Why do you think it won this award?: In the chapter book The One and Only Ivan, the reader is introduced to a
gorilla who was taken from the wild very young and raised in a very small zoo/mall where his friends are a dog
name Bob and an older elephant name Stella. Ivan tends to get the visitors' attention with his drawings that Julia
(the custodian's daughter) really takes a liking of. One day the zoo adds a baby elephant name Ruby to the zoo and
Stella opens his eyes that this baby should not be kept in captivity and she should live with her own kind.
Although it took a while, Ivan finally comes up with a plan. He creates a sign that says "home" and Julia is able to
translate it and Ivan and little Ruby are released to a zoo. I think The One and Only Ivan won a Newbery Medal
because the plot was very catchy and the point of view from Ivan really made the book engaging. The characters
were very likable and their backstories really give reason as to why Ivan needed to save Ruby. This book was an
enjoyable read and is based off a real story (even though some parts are false... talking from the voice of a gorilla
definitely gives it away)
How would you use this book with students?: I would use this story with students as a book club pick or even a
program where students who feel very strongly about animal conservation. This book would be a good fiction focal
point to help motivate students to learn how to advocate for animals
 (5) When You Trap A Tiger
Title: When You Trap A Tiger
Author and/or Illustrator: Tae Keller
Genre: Fiction/Fantasy
Format: Chapter Book
Number of Pages: 300 pages
Award Won and Year of Award: Newbery 2021
Why do you think it won this award?: The chapter book When You Trap A Tiger is a fantasy/fiction book about a little girl named Lily who has
to uproot her life and move from sunny California to rainy Washington to live with her grandmother. On her drive to her grandmother's house
Lily sees a tiger in the road and only she was able to see it. When Lily finally reunites with her grandmother she tells here about the tiger and her
grandmother tells her -seeing a tiger is not good. As the story progresses Lily's finds out why her family abruptly left California and it is because
Lily's grandmother has brain cancer. Lily knows the tiger has something to do with it and she finally confronts the tiger and makes a deal with
him to return the stories her grandmother store from the sky. Lily eventually returns 2 of the stories but her grandmother continues to
deteriorate. Lily is angered by the tiger and tells her to go and out of anger throws the 3rd jar at the wall. It is that moment where her whole
family is startled and grandma falls to the ground and has to be rushed to the hospital. Lily and her sister set to go to the hospital but Lily's sister
is scared to drive in the rain (since their father died in a crash in the rain when they were very young). Lily remember when the tiger is in the
rain the rain lightens so Lily finds the tiger (in the library) and the tiger helps clear the way for them. At the hospital Lily's grandma is dying
and she asks for a story and Lily gives the ending story. I think this story won a Newbery Award because the story is so vivid. This book
incorporates cultural characteristics of the Korean culture. It is well written and it is hard to put down.
How would you use this book with students?: I loved how this book focused on the Asian Pacific community and the old school folktales. I think
using this book as a window would be beneficial to any teacher's folktale/fantasy book unit 2nd grade up. As the librarian using or promoting
this book during Asian Pacific Month (the characters are Korean).
 (6) Digging For Words: Digging for Words: Jose Alberto Gutierrez and the Library He Built
Title: Digging for Words: Digging for Words: José Alberto Gutiérrez and the Library He Built
Author and/or Illustrator: Angela Burke Kunkel
Genre: (The story and main character are real - I am not sure if little Jose is real)Nonfiction
Format: Book
Number of Pages: 41
Award Won and Year of Award: 2021 Cooperative Children’s Book Center Choices, 2020 Chicago Public Library Best
Books, ALSC Notable Children's Books Longlist 2021, Oklahoma Book Award NOMINEE 2022
Why do you think it won this award?: The children's picture book Digging for Words: Jose Alberto Gutierrez and the
Library He Built, is a true story about Jose a garbage man who puts aside books he finds during his garbage route to
supply Columbia's first little library. While Jose is off on his day, Kunkel introduces the reader to little Jose who is trying
to get passed the last day of the week so he can go to the library on Saturday to have access to literacy. I believe this book
has won and been nominated for so many awards because not only is it telling a true story, it is informing the readers
about how valuable literacy is and how many countries are not as fortunate as us have access to books. I also feel the
illustrations really tell the story and give the reader a beautiful view of Jose's day multitasking collecting the garbage
while looking for treasure.
How would you use this book with students?: This book would be an amazing book for K-2 classroom's especially during
the launch of reading workshops and units like reader's all over the world. I also think this book is a great book for the
librarian to use to open the school year to emphasize how amazing a library can be and give the students an awareness of
the valuable asset the have in front of them. I think this book would be a great focal point for programming especially
setting up a book drive or launching a little library in the community.
 (7) When Stars Are Scattered
Title: When Stars Are Scattered
Author and/or Illustrator: Victoria Jamieson and Omar Mohamed
Genre: Biography/Author Biography
Format: Graphic Novel
Number of Pages: 257 (before Afterward and Author's Note)
Award and Year of Award: Josette Frank Award WINNER 2021,American Library Association's YALSA Quick Pick SELECTION, IRA
Notable Books for a Global Society 2021, Jane Addams Children's Book Award FINALIST 2021 & School Library Journal Best Book of the
Year.
Why do you think it won this award ?: The graphic novel When Stars Are Scattered is an autobiography of Omar Mohamed, a
Somalian refugee whose father is murdered in front of him at a young age and he is holding on to the hope of his mother still being
alive. You get a glimpse of the struggle Omar experienced as maybe a 2-3 grader who spent his days taking care of his disabled brother
who was only able to say one one. It was when a village representative met Omar and realized how smart he was and pushed him to go
to school. Omar was a great student but the struggle of helping his foster mother, keeping his grades up and watching his brother
began stressing him out. But somehow Omar persisted and was able to excel to middle school. While he is in middle school he gets a call
from the UN for an interview to help get him and his brother into the United States. Unfortunately the process to resettle was a lot more
difficult than he thought and he becomes very disappointed when he does not get a response. Omar continues his students and
eventually graduates high school and it is during this time the UN calls for the second interview and shortly they get the approval to
resettle to the United States. Although the brothers are heartbroken leaving the ones they loved behind they finally had their shot to a
happy life. This book definitely won the many awards and recognition it received because between the blunt reality of refugee camps
and the beautiful illustrations telling the story it truly gives the reader a window to the tragic reality of refugee camps. This book is a
beautiful story of perseverance and hope.
How would you use this book with students?: I would use this books with 5 grade to support their human rights unit. This book would
be a great writing Segway to create a graphic novel of their own based on a societal challenge. This book would also be great as a book
club or programming educating students in the school community about the struggles of refugees especially since many students are
come from refugee camps and Somalia.
 (8) The Girl Who Drew Butterflies
Title: The Girl Who Drew Butterflies: How Maria Merian's Art Changed Science
Author and/or Illustrator: Joyce Sidman
Genre: Nonfiction
Format: Book
Number of Pages: 160
Award Won and Year of Award: Booklist Editor’s Choice, Chicago Public Library Best of 2018, Kirkus Best book of
2018, 2018 Bulletin Blue Ribbon Book, Junior Library Guild Selection and New York Public Library Top 10 Best
Books of 2018
Why do you think it won this award?: In the biography, The Girl Who Drew Butterflies: How Maria Merian's Art
Changed Science, the reader is introduced to Maria Merian who is raised in the 17th century. During this time
frame women were very limited to do things outside of being caregivers and tending to the house but Maria broke
the mode. Maria's fascination with insects and nature shined through her beautiful artwork. Her genuine
curiosity and interest in insects led her to publish three books focusing on insects and plant life. I think this book
won the awards and honors it did because not only were the illustrations and photos so vivid the way Maria's life
was vividly told really gives the reader motivation to pursue their curiosities or appreciate her role in science.
How would you use this book with students?: I would use this book as a biography to incorporate when students
are learning about the life cycles of butterflies. This book would also be a great book to use in women's history
month as well as reinforcing women's roles in science. This book would best be used with grade 3 (listening) and
up.
 (9) The New Kid
Title: The New Kid
Author and/or Illustrator: Jerry Craft
Genre: Realitic Fiction/Graphic Novel
Format: Graphic Novel
Number of Pages: 256
Award Won and Year of Award: Newbery Medal 2020
Why do you think it won this award?: In the graphic novel The New Kid, readers are introduced to Jordan. Jordan is from the
busy and very urban Washington Heights. His parents seem to have humble jobs and his neighborhood seems to be diverse.
Although Jordan is very talented in drawing his parents decide to send him to Riverdale Academy Day School. Riverdale Academy
Day School is a very expensive private school that is no where near diverse. Jordan eventually makes friends with Liam (his school
guide) who is white, Drew who is African American like Jordan and Alexandra (who I think is Asian and has a hard time making
friends). Although Jordan is making friends he is having a hard time incorporating them together and feels uncomfortable so he
tries to spend time with them individually. While Jordan is busy trying to adjust his father begins to feel like he can't live up to the
Riverdale Academy Day School dad's professions. Jordan has a very difficult time trying to be himself while being accepted in his
new environment but eventually everything falls into place and his friends get along, he finally has art class and he even likes the
school. I believe this book won the Newbery Medal because Jerry Craft created very vibrant relatable characters that students could
relate too. I also think the plot is very developed beginning with Jordan's first day of school all the way to his final day and all the
challenges and accomplishments he made. I also think the style of this book truly depicts middle school experiences, a new student
experience as well as a new student who is not in the element they may be used to.
How would you use this book with students?: I think this book would be great to use with 4 to 6 students for a graphic novel book
study. I think they could create their own graphic novel based on their own life and create silly scenarios like Jordan. This book
would also be good for a new student who is having a difficult time transitioning in to a new school or new 6 graders starting
middle school.
 (10) Esperanza Rising
Title: Esperanza Rising
Author and/or Illustrator: Pam Munoz Ryan
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Format: Book
Number of Pages: 312
Award Won and Year of Award: 2002 Pura Belpré Award Winner, 2001 Jane Addams Children's Book Award Winner, Willa Cather Award
Winner, ILA Notable Book for a Global Society, ALA Top Ten Best Books for Young Adults,
Why do you think it won this award?: In the book Esperanza Rising, the reader is introduced to a young girl named Esperanza who was about
to celebrate her 15 birthday. Esperanza had it all! Her family lived on a beautiful farm, her parent's servants were more like family and one day
she would inherit the grape vineyards. Unfortunately Esperanza's birthday was not celebrated like usual instead of a day full of happiness - it
became the saddest day of her life because her father was killed. Esperanza's father had a very selfish and power hungry brother who wanted
the farm and although Esperanza's father left Esperanza's mother the house and the money from the grape vineyards he was not going to make
their lives easy. He insisted for Esperanza's mother to marry him and at first she hesitated she realized it was for the good of the family until
they came up with plan. On the day of the wedding Esperanza, Miguel and Esperanza's mother trick the uncle and instead of using the carriage
for the wedding they flee to America. In America it was not easy but they settled with Miguel's family and although she faces many hardships
(like adjusting to a new world and her mother becoming very ill) she eventually gets comfortable in America. I believe this book won the many
awards it did because Esperanza Rising focuses on the Mexican culture and the struggles to live equitable. Through the introduction of this
culture this book also helps the reader build a respect and importance to Mexican people and their struggles for a better life. In this book
Esperanza works together with her family and friends to have a safe life after the death of her father and although it was a very tough
experience she was provided with new opportunity in America. I believe this book also won the Jane Addams Award because Esperanza was a
young person who persevered and resolved her conflict with her uncle. I also think this book won the awards that they did because Esperanza
was a very heroic character that found her way out of a very dark situation and found a way to help her family. Between the characters and the
conflict this book is very engaging and gives the readers an insight of why many people flee their country for a better life.
How would you use this book with students?: This book aligns nicely with the 5th grade human rights unit. This book is also a very good book
for a Heroic Girls book club because not only is it diverse but the protagonist is a female. This book is also good for a cultural unit that focuses
on Mexico .
 (11) Roll of Thunder Hear Me Cry
Title: Roll of Thunder Hear Me Cry
Author and/or Illustrator: Mildred D. Taylor
Genre: Historical Fiction
Format: Chapter Book
Number of Pages: 288
Award Won and Year of Award: 2017 Coretta Scott King
Why do you think it won this award?: The story Roll of Thunder Hear Me Cry is about a black family that is trying
very hard to live a fair and normal life. Unfortunately due to Blacks being discriminated against it is very difficult for
the Logan family. The Logans' own a farm that they worked very hard to have. It seems like just when you thought
their luck couldn't get any worse it seems to get worse! Between Cassie and her brother learning that blacks get the old
tattered school supplies, Dad loses his job, T.J.is accused of cheating and goes down a road of rebellion due to the unfair
treatment and a hostile interaction with the Wallaces. At the end of the story TJ's actions and new friends lead him to
an altercation with the Barnett's causing him to be framed for the death of Mr. Barnett. His "friends' ' beat him and
framed him. Mr. Barnett's death causes an uproar with the Wallace's wanting TJ killed; luckily his father comes up
with a plan to burn his field to distract and save Tj. I think this book won the Coretta Scott King Award because it has
black characters depicting a true time frame where Black Americans struggle for equal rights. This book is good for
audiences 5-8th grade. This book has very developed characters (especially Cassie who is telling the story).The plot of
the story is definitely understandable and all the characters are carefully created with plots that help you get the full
picture of this time frame. Another mention should be that the characters definitely change throughout the story due
to the conflict and terrible treatment they experience.
How would you use this book with students? This book would be a great book to coteach Black Rights or the
Segregation time period. I also think this book would lend itself to great opportunities for creative writing stems
including alternate story endings, new characters or telling the story through the lenses of the characters.
 (12) Chickadee
Title: Chickadee
Author and/or Illustrator: Louise Erdrich
Genre: Historical Fiction
Format: Chapter Book
Number of Pages: 224
Award Won and Year of Award:2013 Scott O Day
Why do you think it won this award?: In the chapter book Chickadee, a little boy named Chickadee lives in a tribe
with his family. Unfortunately Chickadee is taken from his family. His family goes through many challenges to get
to Chickadee and it is through his persistence and the faith instilled by his grandmother and the help of a little
bird he is able to overcome many challenges. I think this book won the Scott O Day book award because it was
written for children. This book takes place in the United States in the English language to reinforce realistic
fiction literacy that helped shape the country. This book definitely would increase interest in young readers
because it takes place during the times of Native Americans and exposes students to diverse cultural customs. The
character Chickadee is a very likable, relatable character. He is a great example of persistence and shows know
matter how small he was he could conquer it all.
How would you use this book with students?: I would use this book with 4th grade students since they learn
about Native Americans in their Units of Study. I also think this book is a great model for the character trait
resilience. This might be a great book for a book club or a read aloud or maybe a character trait focus book.
 (13) Above The Rim: How Elgin Changed Basketball
Title: Above The Rim How Elgin Changed Basketball
Author and/or Illustrator: Jenn Bryant
Genre: Nonfiction
Format: Picture Book
Number of Pages: 43 pages
Award Won and Year of Award: 2021 Orbis Picture Book Award
Why do you think it won this award?:The picture book Above The Rim, How Elgin Baylor Changed Basketball is about a
boy named Elgin who had a love for basketball. Although he was alive during times of serious segregation as his love and
craft for basketball grew he was able to break color barriers. Elrin eventually became so talented he went to college and
led his team to victorious wins to eventually attend another college breaking the color barrier as the first back student to
attend. Eventually Elgin gets accepted to play for the Lakers and he has his moment to change the world by boycotting to
play because many restaurants were still refusing to serve blacks. Eventually the NBA supported Elgin and his boycott
and Elgin was able to persist in the game of basketball. I think this book won the Orbis Picture Book Award because it is
a nonfiction book and received the award a year after publication. I think this book portrays the criteria because the
design and style of the book is executed beautifully. The organization following Elgin as a young boy with a love for
basketball to a successful basketball player really brought the book to life. The book also proves to have accuracy because
at the end of the book Jenn Bryant provides sources from where all her information for the book came from.
How would you use this book with students?: I would use this book with students to co teach black history month
content or the core values courage and persistence. This book would be good to use when discussing segregation since it
accurately depicts the events in history during Elgin's life. This book can be used to teach critical thinking or a writing
response about how everyone can make a difference.
 (14)Sarah Plain and Tall
Title: Sarah Plain And Tall
Author and/or Illustrator: Sarah Maclachlan
Genre: Historical Fiction
Format: Chapter Book
Number of Pages: 58 pages
Award Won and Year of Award: 1986 Newbery Medal
Why do you think it won this award?:The historical fiction book Sarah Plain and Tall focuses on a little girl named Anna
and her brother (Caleb) and father adjusting to life after her mother passes away. Ana’s father, Jacob, puts an advertisement
in the paper to find a new wife to help him with his children. Sarah responds back and forth, eventually agreeing to visit for
a month. Anna’s brother takes a liking to Sarah before she arrives and this worries Anna because she doesn’t want her
brother to be disappointed. Although Sara is very homesick when he arrives she eventually decides to stay with the family
and the father learns the message that love has to be given naturally and now forced. I think this book won the Newbery
Medal because the book was published in the United States by an American publisher. The book's target audience could
range to 14 (even though I can see this book starting at 10 years old). This book has characters that really stand out and are
well developed. Although Sarah is “plain and tall” she is a nurturer and has a soft and loving personality. Caleb and Ana’s
personality brings opposite personalities, one being more outgoing and the other a bit more reserved. The plot is definitely
one of a kind, a widower looking for a mail order bride. Finally the theme of love conquering all and you cannot force people
to love you- love has to develop really makes this book one of a kind.

How would you use this book with students?: I would use this book with students in maybe a book study or covering
content during the 1800s Midwest. Although I really like this story besides focusing on themes I am not too sure how I would
be effectively creating an activity for programming.
 (15) Small In The City
Title: Small in the City
Author and/or Illustrator: Sydney Smith
Genre: Fiction
Format: Picture Book
Number of Pages: 40 pages
Award Won and Year of Award: Ezra Jack Keats Award 2020
Why do you think it won this award?: The picture Small in the City, is about a small child who is traveling through the busy city
in search of their missing cat. As the child is searching all the places a cat may like to hide, it is narrated like the young child is
giving suggestions about the different things you may come across during your travels in the city. As a reader you think the title
reflects on the young child but towards the end you get the final verification that the child is in search of their beloved cat. I think
this book won the Ezra Jack Keats Award because it has an original text (unlike other books you may read), it reflects the
multicultural aspect of our world as the child is commuting around the city and the beautiful illustrations support the story
entirely. This book highlights the universal qualities of childhood by showing the unwavering love of a child who is in search of
their pet. When you begin to read the story you question in your mind why is this child wandering in the city on their own talking
about their neighborhood? Are they coming from school or are they going to see a relative. Then the images start to show the little
boy are tree poles looking at red signs. It then makes you question what is on the sign to eventually see it is a lost cat poster.
Although this book is a short picture book there is so much rich discussion you can have as well as expanding ideas activities.
How would you use this book with students?: This book would be beneficial for learners K-3. I think this book would be great to
co teach with in grades K and 1 in teaching predictions, questioning and sequencing. I also think this book would be beneficial to K
and 1 because they do an author study on Ezra Jack Keats and this would be a good example to show how other authors work and
have characteristics similar to Keats. For 2nd graders, this book would be beneficial for when they learn the three types of
communities (urban, rural and suburban). This book can help pull characteristics for the Urban community. This book can be
great as a model for creating their own version of small in the city. Also this book may give them an idea on how to create an
urban keats' style illustration following Sydney Smith's illustrations.
 (16) Dog Man
Title: Dog Man
Author and/or Illustrator: Dav Pilkey
Genre: Graphic Novel/ Fiction/ Contemparary
Format: Print
Number of Pages: 240
Award Won and Year of Award: This book did not win any medals but it is very popular amongst young readers. It has also
been on many booklist including amazon. I scored:
#1 in Children's Mystery & Detective Comics & Graphic Novels
#2 in Children's Animal Comics & Graphic Novels
#3 in Children's Superhero Comics
Why do you think it won this award?: The graphic novel Dog Man is a silly book about a police officer and his dog who come
close to death and in order to survive they had to attach the top torso of the dog to the bottom part of a man making Dog
Man. Dog Man's enemy is Petey (a cat). Children took such a liking to this book series. There are about 9 volumes. I think this
book is loved by many children because the characters are very silly and likable. The conflicts that Dog Man faces are very
funny and keep the reader interested. The illustrations are extremely funny and are very similar to Captain Underpants.

How would you use this book with students?: I think this book would be good book chosen for programming. This book
would be a fun book to model comic strip writing.
 (17) DC Comics: Secret Hero Society: Field Trip Disaster

Title: DC Comics: Secret Hero Society: Field Trip Disaster

Author and/or Illustrator: Derek Fridolfs
Genre: Contemporary Fiction
Format: Print
Number of Pages: 176
Award Won and Year of Award: No Awards
Why do you think it won this award?:This book is the 5th book in the series Secret Hero Society. This book
anthology focuses on the young Batman, Superman and Wonder Woman in a special middle school called
Ducard Academy. The school is definitely not your average middle school. Villains definitely lurk in all
corners (Lex Luther, etc). Although this book has not won any medals or awards, this book is definitely very
popular amongst 4th grade to 8th grade students because the characters are very popular among all super
hero fans. The plot is very interesting (and adventurous- as you would expect from a superhero text). The
point of view from the superheroes as kids make it so much more relatable and the up to date resources the
kids use to solve their crimes.

How would you use this book with students?: This book would be great for programming - maybe a Super
Hero Society that can cover both fiction superheroes and nonfiction real life superheroes.
 (18) Honeybee: The Busy Lives of Apis Mellifera

Title: Honeybee The Busy Lives of Apis Mellifera

Author and/or Illustrator: Candace Fleming & Eric Rohmman
Genre: Nonfiction
Format: Book
Number of Pages: 40 pages
Award Won and Year of Award: 2021 Robert F. Sibert Medal
Why do you think it won this award?: First and foremost, I did not expect to become so emotional over a bee! In
the book Honeybee: The Busy Lives of Apis Mellifera Candace Fleming tells you the story of the life cycle of a
honeybee with very details. This book probably one this award because it is not a folktale or traditional literature.
The character is the bee and it definitely is one of a kind - since it is the life of a bee from its point of view. The
book is very distinguished because it is definitely a unique life cycles nonfiction book. Common nonfiction books
are more scientific but this book is told like a story - a day in the life of a bee.
How would you use this book with students?: This book would be great to co-teacher with a classroom teacher.
This book would be great to use with 1st graders to 3rd graders in Science or Writing when covering the life cycle
of animals. This book could be a sample/model for point of view writing as an animal. In second and third grade
they learn about various types of cycles so this may be a very good book to retell or acknowledge parts of the life
cycle. Students may be able to use post it’s to find important details in the book or possibly identify parts of a life
cycle.
 (19) The Wild Robot
Title: The Wild Robot
Author and/or Illustrator: Peter Brown
Genre: Contemporary Fiction
Format: Print
Number of Pages: 288
Award Won and Year of Award: Bank Street College of Education 2017 Best Children's Book of the Year
Why do you think it won this award?: I believe The Wild Robot won the award for Bank Street College of Education Best
Children's Book of the year because the character (ROZ the robot) is a robot who and her 4 fellow robots wind up in the ocean
after their ship crashes. Fortunately for Roz she survives (while the 4 others are smashed and damaged from the crash). Lucky
for Roz she is found by otters. Roz is brought to life by solar power and she begins to familiarize herself with the other animals.
One day she finds a fox and although many animals are afraid of her she helps him remove quills from a porcupine, the other
animals start seeing Roz is not too bad which leads her to accidentally destroy a birds nest leaving her to raise the seagull as her
own baby. The criteria of this award includes "credibility of characterization and plot" if any book would deserve this is the
development of Roz's character as she tries to adjust to her environment and become part of this forest family. The plot only
gets better by chapter from the animals being afraid of Roz, to Roz becoming mother to Brightbill, to creating homes for the
animals to survive winter to the bitter end when the robots come for Roz and the animals try to save her. Although this is
obviously a very fictional book the theme of togetherness and a family is more than genetic really makes the book very special
and from the plot it definitely covers the criteria `` positive treatment or ethnic and religious differences and the absence of
stereotypes." Now you may say "what is she talking about?" The animals learn Roz deserves to be treated fairly and accepted
even though she is different. This book is truly a gem and I am not surprised it has had positive reactions from readers from
grade 3 and up.
How would you use this book with students?: I would use this book in a library programming to link coding with Robots! I
think it is a great sample of fiction text to now combine this sweet book with nonfiction coding/bots it will give students two
different ways to view robots.
 (20) Babysitter's Little Sisters: Karen's New Skates
Title:Baby Sitters Little Sisters: Karen's New Skates
Author and/or Illustrator: Ann M. Martin and Katy Farina
Genre: Graphic Novel Realistic Fiction
Format: Print
Number of Pages: 134
Copyright: 2020
Award Won and Year of Award: N/A
Why do you think it won this award?: The graphic novel Karen's New Skates is based off the chapter books from the 90s written
by Ann M. Martin. As a huge Baby Sitter's Club/ Little Sister fan I had to read this book (because yet again my bias came front and
center when I found out the turned The Baby Sitter's Club into a graphic novel series). In the Little Sister series it always opens up
explaining Karen's blended family living situation. Usually after the brief introduction the reader is introduced to Karen's silly
problem early on but doesn't show it's true conflict a few chapters in. In this book Karen loves roller skating and instead of walking
the family dog first instead of trying to find a way to combine both she manages to break her wrist jumping over cans trying to
show off to her little brother. It is in the hospital Karen bumps into Ricky who broke his leg and it turns into a cast signing contest.
Although this book did not recieve any awards I actually was pleased with the graphic novel form. It was engaging the illustrations
were very animated and it brought the characters to life from a different perspective. I do think having these books adapted to
graphic novels definitely gives them the opportunity to reach a whole new population of readers and gives reader's from different
literature perspectives to enjoy these plots too.
How would you use this book with students?: I think this book would be great to use with the genre realistic fiction. Maybe
creating a class where students can be exposed to both the chapter book and graphic novel version and identify the differents. Then
they can create a narrative and tell the story two ways. Also maybe creating a graphic novel program that focuses on different
genres of graphic novels identifying the characteristics as well as audiences.
 (21) Mario and the Hole in the Sky: How a Chemist Saved Our Planet
Title: Mario and the Hole in the Sky: How a Chemist Saved Our Planet
Author and/or Illustrator: Elizabeth Rusch
Genre: Nonfiction
Format: Ebook
Number of Pages: 45
Award Won and Year of Award: 2020 National Science Teaching Association
Why do you think it won this award?: A young boy named Mario receives a microscope for his birthday and it awakens a
curiosity for science. Mario follows his curiosity becoming a scientist eventually becoming a doctor. He becomes very curious
about the harmful effects CFC could happen to the ozone layer. Mario finds out that if radiation and CFC combine it could destroy
the Ozone layer and would continue destroying the ozone because it couldn't die. Ozone is what protects us from the sun's waves.
Mario shared his findings but now one was taking action and cared about how serious the problem was. Eventually he was able to
get 28 countries to agree to not creating products with CFCs. I believe this book was chosen as a book from the National Science
Teaching Association because it focused on a unique scientist of color that definitely emphasizes the diversity in representation in
today's children's books. I also think the content of Mario's love for science helped save the world by studying CFCs and
advocating for the stop of this deadly chemical. Between the content, a diverse science and message that anyone can help save the
Earth really helped emphasize the message that we need to advocate for the Earth we live in. This has a beneficial message and
teaches a very important event in both the science and history world and most importantly the story is told in a very engaging
point of view, keeping the reader interested and curious as to what is going to happen next.
How would you use this book with students?: This book would be a great book to use for Hispanic Heritage Month, a co-
planning unit on scientist or just a great book to use for a biography unit. As the librarian it would be a great program focusing
on the different representations of scientist. Students can see that scientist can be anyone and maybe this will spark a curiosity in
Science. This also may be a good book to plan with the science teacher or classroom teachers who cover the ozone layer in their
curriculum.
 (22) Secret Engineer: How Emily Roebling Built the Brooklyn Bridge
Title: Secret Engineer: How Emily Roebling Built the Brooklyn Bridge
Author and/or Illustrator: Rachel Dougherty
Genre: Nonfiction
Format: Ebook
Number of Pages: 21
Award Won and Year of Award: 2020 Outstanding Science Trade Book
Why do you think it won this award?: The book How Emily Roebling Built the Brooklyn Bridge is a nonfiction book that
tells the behind the scenes story of the creation of the famous Brooklyn Bridge. The Brooklyn Bridge's project and creation
was oversaw by Washington Roebling. Washington Roebling was the civil engineer assigned to the job, unfortunately this job
was very strenuous and working in small areas of compressed air was making many of the workers sick eventually causing
Washington to become sick as well. Emily had to rise to the occasion to make sure the project would be completed, working
with her ill husband learning the formulas to ensure the success of the completion. I believe this book won the 2020
Outstanding Science Trade Book because the topic is based on bridge making (STEM & Civil Engineering). This is a very
interesting story about a very popular bridge that was one of a kind at the time of its creation. Not only does this book focus
on a category of science but it also focuses on an important woman figure whose effort greatly influenced science. Between
the illustrations and storytelling point of view of this book, it provides readers with a rich learning experience about a
remarkable contribution to history.
How would you use this book with students?:
This book can be used for so many purposes. This book can be used to co teach/co-plan for 2nd grade Social Studies unit New
York Then and Now. This book can also be used as a book used for Women's History Month. Maybe students can create a Flip
Grid sharing one amazing woman who contributed to Science or Society. This book would also be useful for a STEM
programming/co teaching in bridge creating. Students can use various materials to build their bridge and reflect on the
challenges they could see the Roeblings may have faced.
 (23) Hilo: Gina The Girl Who Broke The World
Title: Hilo: Gina The Girl Who Broke The World
Author and/or Illustrator: Judd Winick
Genre: Graphic Novel Science Fiction
Format: Ebook
Number of Pages: 113
Award Won and Year of Award: N/A
Why do you think it won this award?: The book Hilo: Gina The Girl Who Broke The World is the 7 book in the Hilo graphic novel
series. Although I did not read the Hilo series, this book gives you the backstory of what happened previously. Apparently before
this book Hilo had magic powers and in order to save the world he and their other friend Izzy had to combine magic to save
everyone. Unfortunately Izzy died but Hilo survives taking in some of her powers. Apparently before this event Izzy was teaching
Gina magic. In this book strange things are happening and it is up to Izzy to use her magic to save the day. While Hilo is trying to
adjust as a human - Gina is trying to learn how to use her magic. This book is a very friendly read to young readers. The
characters have very interesting personalities. The book shows various cultural representations. I also like how the girl is the
hero and there is a part when Gina questions herself and her dad explains that she is her own person and has a special
personality strength to her. Although this book is more on the sci fiction range it is a very fun read.
How would you use this book with students?: Maybe with this book students can create the next book to create an adventure for
Gina and her friends. Maybe the students could create a flip grid talking in the voice of one of the characters retelling the story
from the character's point of view. Another activity could be the students create another magical alien and describe it's special
powers, if it is a villain or a good character and what it's intentions are.
 (24)All He Knew
Title: All He Knew
Author and/or Illustrator: Helen Frost
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Format: Audio
Number of Pages:
Award Won and Year of Award: 2021 Scott O' Dell
Why do you think it won this award?: All He Knew is a very sensitive chapter book about a boy named Henry who is very bright
but he is deaf. Unfortunately since Henry is deaf, he is sent to a school for children who they think are unteachable. This book
definitely won the Scott O' Dell Award because although I thought this book was Realistic Fiction this book focuses on a book of
Historical Fiction due to the time frame this book takes place. This book takes place during World War 2 and during this time
frame people did not know how to educate students with diverse needs and sent poor Henry to live in a grouphome left to survive.
A main characteristic in this award catagory is how this book shapes the country and world; this book definitely helps the reader
understand that although people can have special needs they can be Brilliant and everyone needs to be given a chance. Another
theme was to never give up and although many negative things may be going on in the world you need to try your best to be
successful and in Henry's case survive. This book definitely helps make this time frame interesting and helps the reader connect
to the character.
How would you use this book with students?: I would use this book with students for a book club to reinforce the core values of
empathy or perseverance. I would also suggest this book to 5th grade teachers who briefly touch on WW2 to reinforce the
literature exposure to students with diverse needs. A good activity for this book could be for students to create an alternate ending
or an alternate middle or even a book with a main character who has a serious challenge they need to overcome.
 (25)Frank Einstein and the Brain Turbo
Title: Frank Einstein and the Brain Turbo
Author and/or Illustrator: Jon Scieszka
Genre: Science Fiction/ Fantasy
Format: Audio
Number of Pages: 2008
Award Won and Year of Award: N/A
Why do you think it won this award?: Although Frank Einstein and the Brain Turbo has not won an award,
it is a very entertaining story for mid elementary school students. I could see 2nd or 3rd graders finding this
book very interesting and Frank Einstein uses his intelligence to create a special machine to help his friend
Jane Goodall pitch faster. Listening to this book on audio was very entertaining since Jon Scieszka (himself)
narrated the story providing tons of intonation and silly.
How would you use this book with students?: I would use this story with the students in the library to
support launching a STEM and Technology programming. I think Frank Einstein will be a great model with
his curiosity and scientific mindset to show students although this book is fiction - the curiosity of science can
be little to large.
 (26) The Princess In Black
Title: The Princess In Black
Author and/or Illustrator: Shannon and Dean Hale
Genre: Fantasy
Format: Audio
Number of Pages: 100
Award Won and Year of Award: N/A
Why do you think it won this award?: The Princess in Black has not won any book awards but Princess
Magnolia'ss double life from princess to a mask crusader sparks the interest of both girls and boys. Although
this is the first book in the series there are already several. In this specific book Princess Magnolia is having
tea with Duchess Wigtower who is trying to find out Magnolia's big secret. During this tea session Magnolia
gets an alert that their is danger in the kingdom. While Magnolia is trying to save the day and keep her
secret safe she manages to save the goats from the monsters and keeping her identity safe from Duff (the goat
shepard). At the end of the book Magnolia gets back to the castle and Duchess Wigtower thinks that she has
found her secret and she was off by a long shot. Duchess Wigtower thought Magnolia's secret was she got her
white stockings so dirty they turned black.
How would you use this book with students?:
This book would be great to use with the 2nd grade fairytale unit. Although it is not a traditional fairytale
students can compare and contrast how the role of a princess may differ. This may even help promote creative
writing motivating students to write fairytales with an update/modern approach to the characters. Students
can then record their stories through video or podcast and share with lower grades.
 (27) Where Do Presidents Come From? And Other Presidential Stuff Of Great Super Great Importance

Title: Where Do Presidents Come From? And Other Presidential Stuff Of Great Super Great Importance
Author and/or Illustrator: Michael Townsend
Genre: Graphic Novel/Nonfiction
Format: Ebook
Number of Pages: 166
Award Won and Year of Award: N/A
Why do you think it won this award?: Although Where Do Presidents Come From? has not received any
awards, this book is a hilarious wealth of knowledge about how the role of president came to be, how you can
become a president and history on the presidents. This book is a graphic novel and the illustrations are bright
and fun with very humorous captions. The text is very engaging and Michael Townsend front loads the
students with the knowledge they will be learning and why.
How would you use this book with your students: This book would be great resource for classroom teachers
who cover presidency as well as the history of the role. This would be a great book for students who are
reluctant history readers. The librarian may want the students to create a graphic novel of the social studies
content they are learning with their teacher as a different way to publish their learning.
 (28) Better Nate Than Ever
Title: Better Nate Than Ever
Author and/or Illustrator: Tim Federle
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Format: Audio
Number of Pages: 304
Award Won and Year of Award: Times Notable A Publishers Weekly Best Book A Slate Favorite Book
Why do you think it won this award?: Better Nate Than Ever is a realistic fiction chapter book about a
middle school student named Nate who wants to make it big in the acting world. Nate feels since he lives in
Pennsylvania he is unable to follow his dreams and sneaks to NY to audition on Broadway. I believe this book
won a Stonewall Honor because Nate (the character) is a charismatic, silly and unsure entirely of his
sexuality (although everyone teases that he is gay). I also think this story won this honor because the plot
message of persistence and following your dreams by all cost - in this hilarious book you follow Nate as he
manages to sneak to NYC for a night. I found the plot and exposure to a character who was LBGT really helps
readers open their minds and helps the readers appreciate all kinds of people and we are all the same
underneath the labels.
How would you use this book with students?: I think this book would be a great book to use to promote an
awareness of acceptance. I think I would have each student send Nate a message with positive words to both
support accepting him and following his dream. This message can be through a post it, flipgrid or a voice
recording. Another activity would be to create a program about accepting all people and this book could
definitely be a humorous book to add to the readings.
 (29) Migration: Incredible Animal Journeys

Title: Migration: Incredible Animal Journeys

Author and/or Illustrator: Mike Unwin & Jenni Desmond
Genre: Nonfiction
Format: Audio
Number of Pages: 52
Award Won and Year of Award: Outstanding Science Trade Book 2020
Why do you think it won this award?: In the nonfiction book Incredible Animal Journeys, the reader is
introduced to twenty animals and their epic migration patterns. I believe this book won the Outstanding
Science Trade Book because each animal section is extremely engaging and informative with a beautiful
realistic picture to accompany it's 2 page spread. Not only is this book extremely engaging it truly opens the
readers eyes to 20 animals and the migratory pattern. One thing I really appreciated about this book that it
explains thoroughly why the animals migrate and surprisingly there were several different reasons.
How would you use this book with students?: I think this book would be great to co teach with a teacher
when teaching Science and the migratory patterns. This book can be a good start for studenrs researching
and tracking the migratory patterns of other animals. This book also presents itself as a beautiful book to
create an art project following the format from this book.
 (30) What Do You Do With An Idea?
Title: What Do You Do With An Idea?
Author and/or Illustrator: Kobe Yomada & Mae Besom
Genre: Fiction/ Fantasy
Format: Ebook
Number of Pages: 36
Award Won and Year of Award: Independent Publisher Book Award 2014
Why do you think it won this award?: I believe this book won the Independent Publisher Book Award of
2014 because in this book a young boy must take his idea and find a way to use it to best benefit him. I think
this book won this award because this book is very original. There are not many picture books talking as if
you are the character and trying to overcome the conflict within the story. This book has beautiful illustration
and although most of the book is black/gray and white with specific details colored and the coloring
brightening as the character resolves the conflict of finding a way to use their idea. This book definitely has
voice and the story is talking to you and all the conflicts you may face. Between the original concept, the
book's craftsmanship and free spirit adventurous theme of trying to find what out what to do with an idea
this book is truly something special.
How would you use this book with students?: This book is very inspirational I would display this book in my
staff newsletter to help gain recognition for educators to use it for building student core values. I would also
use this book in parent workshops because parents should be exposed to amazing literature as well as know
what to do with an idea too! Through a voice recording, or video recording app students reactions and the
sharing of what they would do with an idea would also be something I would like to do.