Module 2: Realism, Romance, & Censorship

BIBLIOGRAPHIC DATA:

Korman, Gordon. 2002. SON OF THE MOB. New York: Hyperion. ISBN 9780786807697

CRITICAL ANALYSIS:

Vince Luca is an ordinary 17 year old teenage boy, except for the fact that his family is “mobbed up.” Vince wants nothing to do with the shady family “vending machine” business, but he finds it extremely difficult to extricate himself completely from his family’s mob connections. Everywhere Vince turns, he sees reminders of what his father does for a living. Vince sees and experiences a lot of shocking and often comical things as the son of a mob boss, such as discovering an unconscious guy in the trunk of his car while out on a first date with a girl. Even Vince’s friend, Alex, desires to live vicariously through Vince since he thinks that mob connections can improve Vince’s social status. Things get very complicated when Vince meets Kendra Bightly, an FBI agent’s daughter, and he finds himself attracted to her in large part due to the problems a relationship between the two of them could create for his family. Vince says, “I just made out with the daughter of the man whose goal in life is to send my father to prison.” After getting a case of head lice from Kendra as a result of kissing her at a party, the two get to know each other and end up really liking each other. Vince must quickly decide where his loyalties lie and what matters most to him as he confronts this monumentally difficult situation. With its quick wit, unique plot, and instantly intriguing characters, SON OF THE MOB will likely grab readers early on and hold on to them tightly throughout the fast-paced and often hilarious story. This story is unique and refreshing, making it an excellent choice to share with young adults.

CONNECTIONS:

If students enjoy SON OF THE MOB, recommend the next title in this series, SON OF THE MOB: HOLLYWOOD HUSTLE. Or, recommend another YA mob title, such as FOR MONEY AND LOVE by Todd Strasser.

This story would be an excellent story to book talk to teens. Once students learn the premise of the plot for this story, it will be very difficult to resist!

Encourage students to write their own diary entries from Vince’s perspective, describing what it is like to be the son of a mob boss who is dating an FBI agent’s daughter.

REVIEWS AND AWARDS:

From LIBRARY JOURNAL:
“Vince Luca is the son of a notorious mob boss (a scion of the "vending machine business") who falls for the one girl he shouldn't: the daughter of the FBI agent assigned to bring his father down. Romeo and Juliet never had it so tough. Vince and Kendra get itchy early on; a make-out session at a drunken frat party lands them both with a case of head lice. For fans of The Freshman (starring Matthew Broderick and Marlon Brando, 1990). Why It Is for Us: From The Godfather to The Sopranos, mob stories never fail to fascinate, but a laugh-out-loud funny mob story is a rarity.”

From PUBLISHERS WEEKLY:
“The Sopranos (minus the vulgarity and violence) meets Leave It to Beaver (minus the "aw-shucks" tone and dated sensibility) in Korman's (No More Dead Dogs) brassy, comical caper. With its razor-sharp dialogue and bullet-fast pace, this tale could fly on either the small or big screen, yet it makes a page-turner of a novel.”

TAYSHAS, 2003

Wilson’s Junior High School

Wilson’s Senior High School

Module 2: Realism, Romance, & Censorship

BIBLIOGRAPHIC DATA:

Anderson, Laurie Halse. 2007. TWISTED. New York: Viking. ISBN 9780670061013

CRITICAL ANALYSIS:

TWISTED is the story of Tyler, a teenage geek turned bad boy who finds his life turned upside down after vandalizing the school during the summer before his senior year. As a result of this prank, Tyler spends the entire summer doing manual labor as punishment for his crime. When school starts up again in the fall, Tyler finds that his previous image as “a zit on the butt of the student body” has shifted because of his new muscles and new image as a tough, bad boy. Tyler even finds himself attracting the attention of Bethany Milbury, the incredibly popular “alpha female” of the school and daughter of his father’s boss. However, Tyler’s newfound transformation and shift in social status do not portray his whole story. Darkness simmers underneath the surface at home as his bitter and angry workaholic father continues to lash out and perpetuate emotional unrest in the family. When Bethany invites Tyler to a wild Halloween party, Tyler is on cloud nine until he realizes that Bethany is extremely drunk. When nude pictures of Bethany surface on the internet the day after the party, Tyler instantly finds himself being blamed. As word quickly spreads that Tyler is being targeted for this horrible act, the emotional impact becomes almost too much to bear. With his father angrier than ever, Tyler’s thoughts turn suicidal as he struggles to find a way to put everything back on track. The fast-paced and often surprising plot will suck young readers in, and Anderson’s expertly created strong and realistic characters will keep them engaged throughout the story. Tyler will strike a chord with any young reader who has ever wanted a second chance at fitting in, and his frustration and desperation will seem nearly tangible to the reader. The raw emotions and struggles exposed in TWISTED are dark yet realistic, making it a story that will likely resonate with readers for a long time to come.

CONNECTIONS:

If students enjoy the writing of Laurie Halse Anderson, recommend her critically acclaimed novel, SPEAK.

Tyler contemplates suicide throughout the story. Use TWISTED as a springboard for a discussion with teens on suicidal thoughts and dealing with emotions. Share the suicide hotline number with teens (1-800-SUICIDE) and encourage them to talk to someone if they know someone who might be suicidal.

Open up a discussion on how Tyler’s decisions affected the situations he found himself in. Could he have done anything differently? Would he have changed things if he could, or would he have kept things the same?

REVIEWS AND AWARDS:

From BOOKLIST (January 2007):
“Writing for the first time from a male perspective, Anderson skillfully explores identity and power struggles that all young people will recognize.”

From KIRKUS REVIEW starred (February 2007):
“Tyler was always the kind of guy who didn't stand out until he spends the summer before his senior year working as punishment for spray painting the school. His new image and buff physique attracts Bethany--the über-popular daughter of his father's boss--but his angry and distant father becomes even more hostile towards him. As tension mounts, Tyler reaches a crisis point revealed through one of the most poignant and gripping scenes in young-adult literature. Taking matters into his own hands, Tyler decides that he must make a choice about what kind of man he wants to be, with or without his father's guidance.”

From SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL (May 2007):
“Teenage concerns with sex, alcohol, grades, and family are all tackled with honesty and candor. Once again, Anderson's taut, confident writing will cause this story to linger long after the book is set down.”

Wilson’s Senior High School

Module 2: Realism, Romance, & Censorship

BIBLIOGRAPHIC DATA:

Lyga, Barry. 2006. THE ASTONISHING ADVENTURES OF FANBOY AND GOTH GIRL. Boston: Houghton Mifflin. ISBN 9780618723928

CRITICAL ANALYSIS:

Donnie is an outsider at school whose only joy in life comes from reading and creating his own graphic novel, “Schemata.” With a turbulent relationship with his stepfather, “the step-fascist,” and only one real friend since he moved away with his mother after his parents’ divorce, Donnie struggles daily to find where he fits in life. Donnie’s one friend is Cal, a “jock”, who shares Donnie’s love for comic books and graphic novels. However, since Donnie and Cal are in different leagues socially, their relationship is somewhat strained as Cal is torn between his popular friends and lifestyle and friendship with Donnie. Donnie is beaten up often at school, and this bullying clearly takes an emotional toll on him as he carries a bullet around with him as a sort of security blanket. However, Donnie finds his life taking an interesting turn when he meets Kyra, a wild girl who lives dangerously and shares Donnie’s love of comics and graphic novels. Kyra, or “Goth Girl,” refers to Donnie as “Fanboy,” and the pair finds that despite their differences, they have a lot in common, such as trouble fitting in and problems at home. Donnie’s relationship with Kyra is confused and sometimes tense, but he enjoys being around her as she gives him a newfound sense of confidence in himself. Donnie’s confidence increases so much that he stands up for himself against a bully and the school principal and finds that he doesn’t need to carry the bullet as much after meeting Kyra. Young adults will easily relate to the realistic characters portrayed here, and the theme of struggling to fit in will undoubtedly resonate with all readers. The shocking and sometimes hilarious antics of the characters, such as Kyra flashing the idolized comic book writer who ends up being a jerk in real life, will certainly entertain and appeal to the target audience. The comic theme, which is infused into the storyline throughout the book, will easily draw fans of comic books and graphic novels into the novel. At times, the subject matter is dark, such as Donnie’s violent daydreams, his depressive moods, and Kyra’s suicidal thoughts, but the darkness is cleverly balanced with a believable message of hope. The story is a bit of an emotional roller coaster as it twists from being both funny and sad, often at the same time. For all of its twists and turns and harsh realities mixed with hope, THE ASTONISHING ADVENTURES OF FANBOY AND GOTH GIRL is certainly a roller coaster ride worth taking.

CONNECTIONS:

If students enjoy THE ASTONISHING ADVENTURES OF FANBOY AND GOTH GIRL, recommend the continuation of the storyline by Barry Lyga, GOTH GIRL RISING (2009).

Since Donnie is obsessed with comic books and graphic novels, pair this story with a variety of graphic novels to spark students’ interest. Or, create a graphic novel display in the library after reading and discussing THE ASTONISHING ADVENTURES OF FANBOY AND GOTH GIRL.

This novel raises some serious concerns regarding school violence, bullying, and suicidal thoughts. Open up a discussion with students regarding these heavy topics after reading the story, allowing students to share their thoughts openly.

REVIEWS AND AWARDS:

From BOOKLIST (September 2006):
“Fanboy's whip-smart, often hilariously sarcastic voice skillfully captures a teenager's growing self-awareness, and adds a fresh, urgent perspective to age-old questions about how young people cope with bullying and their own feelings of helplessness, rage, and being misunderstood as they try to discover themselves.”

From SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL starred (November 2006):
“Lyga looks at how teens are pushed to their limits by society. Though he toys with such concepts as teen suicide and Columbine-like violence, the novel never turns tragic. His love of comics carries over into all three teen characters, breathing animation into a potentially sad but often funny story. This is a great bridge book for teens who already like graphic novels.”

From LIBRARY MEDIA CONNECTION (April/May 2007):
“This novel will strike a timely chord with any student who feels bullied or ostracized.”

Wilson’s Junior High School

Wilson’s Senior High School

Module 1: YA Classic

BIBLIOGRAPHIC DATA:

Hinton, S.E. 1988. THE OUTSIDERS. Narr. Jim Fyfe. Audio Book on CD. New York: Listening Library. ISBN 9780739339015

CRITICAL ANALYSIS:

THE OUTSIDERS, perhaps one of the most popular classic young adult stories, reveals the gritty tale of a young gang of boys from the wrong side of the tracks. The boys identify themselves as “Greasers,” and their hard luck stories and tough exteriors will resonate with teen readers regardless of the more than 40 years that have passed since the story’s original publication. The “Greasers” repeatedly find themselves clashing with the “Socs,” or “Socials,” and the opposing social classes find themselves in the middle of a bitter rivalry that plays out like a war between eternal enemies. When two of the youngest “Greasers” try to defend themselves from a group of “Socs” in the dark of the night, one of the “Socs” ends up dying and the “Greasers” lives are changed forever. From violent and deadly street fights to destructive fires, the action is fast paced and certain to keep the interest of the book’s intended audience. The main character, a self-proclaimed “Greaser” named Ponyboy Curtis, is unusually sensitive and observant given his circumstances. These attributes make him an easily likeable and effective narrator for the story. The other rough and tumble “Greasers” will also strike a chord with readers as their tragic home lives and strong relationships with each other are revealed. Listening Library’s audio version, narrated by Jim Fyfe, is easy to listen to and lays out the story in a dramatic and appealing fashion. Fyfe’s animated and dynamic voice reveals the timeless story’s exciting plot and unforgettable characters in a strong fashion that is sure to please listeners of all ages.

CONNECTIONS:

Since many teens find themselves in the middle of battles between social classes, begin by asking students to consider the social cliques that are prevalent in their school (“the jocks,” “the brains,” etc.). Is it difficult for one member of a clique to socialize with members of another clique? Do cliques really play a part in a teenager’s social life, or is much of this dramatized and overrated?

Remind students that this book was written more than 40 years ago. What is timeless about this story? What has changed in the last 40 years?

Invite students to visit S.E. Hinton’s website, which includes extended information on THE OUTSIDERS. Point out that Hinton began writing this story at the age of 16. Would you have guessed that a 16 year old wrote this story? Why or why not? Did her young age help her create believable teenage characters?

REVIEWS AND AWARDS:

From PUBLISHER’S WEEKLY (August 2007):
“Hinton’s first novel, written at the age of 16, has since introduced generations of readers to Ponyboy, a so-called Greaser from the wrong side of the tracks, and the fierce rivalry between the Greasers and the Socs (short for Socials). With more than 13 million copies sold to date, the relevance of this modern classic has not waned.”

New York Herald Tribune Best Teenage Books List, 1967

Chicago Tribune Book World Spring Festival Honor Book, 1967

Media and Methods Maxi Award, 1975

ALA Best Young Adult Books, 1975

Massachusetts Children’s Book Award, 1979

Wilson’s Junior High School

Wilson’s Senior High School

Module 1: Printz Honor Book

BIBLIOGRAPHIC DATA:

Frost, Helen. 2003. KEESHA’S HOUSE. New York: Farrar, Straus, and Giroux. ISBN 9780374340643

CRITICAL ANALYSIS:

In a series of emotionally charged poems, Frost unfolds the tale of seven desperate teenagers with no place to turn. From Katie’s abusive stepfather to Harris’s homelessness at the hands of his intolerant father, difficult challenges face these seven teenagers and leave them in need of a place to stay and a space to heal. So, they turn to “Keesha’s House,” which is actually Joe’s house. As a teenager, Joe faced his own difficult trials and was fortunate to have a caring aunt who welcomed him into her home for as long as he needed. Now an adult, Joe has inherited his aunt's house and is returning the favor for other teenagers facing difficult times. Keesha has found the comfort of Joe’s house, and she lets others know about the refuge she has discovered while being careful not to draw too much attention from outside authorities. The seven teenagers find their individual stories and lives interwoven with each other, giving the book coherence. The characters are all raw and real, giving teen readers an extensive cast of authentic characters to relate to. From teenage pregnancy to DUI arrests, these teenagers' stories are dramatic, and many teens will find themselves either relating to the themes presented here or simply fascinated by them. Frost cleverly uses a series of poems to tell these teens’ stories, allowing each character to reveal his or her own engaging story in his or her own words. The spectacular poems also reveal a deep emotional layer that will undoubtedly resonate with readers. The poetic forms add an additional component to the story and increase the story’s readability. Recommended for all libraries serving young adults, KEESHA’S HOUSE is an outstanding poetic novel that utilizes strong characters and an unusual format to explore a variety of complex themes that will intrigue teens.

CONNECTIONS:

Create a short book trailer to show to students asking them where they would turn if they found themselves in the dire situations of the seven teenagers in KEESHA’S HOUSE (pregnant, abused, arrested for DUI, homeless, etc.). For seven teens, the answer is at Keesha’s House. Use this book trailer to promote the story and motivate interest.

Read Frost’s endnotes on the poetic forms used throughout the story. Ask students why they think Frost chose to use poetry to tell this story. What does poetry add to the story? Invite students to write their own sestinas and sonnets.

Encourage students to draw Keesha’s house, showcasing the qualities that make it such a welcoming and safe environment.

REVIEWS AND AWARDS:

From KIRKUS REVIEW (March 2003):
“Sestinas and sonnets carry the storyline in Frost’s multi-voiced story of teens struggling to find their way in the world. With a number of threads to follow, no one character is at the center, but there is great satisfaction in seeing the narratives gradually mesh as the isolation recedes and support is given. Impressive.”

From SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL (March 2003):
“Frost has taken the poem-story to a new level with well-crafted sestinas and sonnets, leading readers into the souls and psyches of her teen protagonists.”

Michael Printz Honor Book 2004

TAYSHAS, 2005

Wilson’s Junior High School

Wilson’s Senior High School

Module 1: Recent Award Winner

BIBLIOGRAPHIC DATA:

Canales, Viola. 2005. THE TEQUILA WORM. New York: Wendy Lamb Books. ISBN 9780375840890

CRITICAL ANALYSIS:

While recounting her younger years, Sofia Casas, the main character and narrator of THE TEQUILA WORM, shares vivid, touching, and often humorous memories of her life growing up as a Hispanic girl living in a barrio community in McAllen, Texas. Some of her memories are warm and lighthearted, while others are painful and upsetting. From memories of fascinating cultural traditions such as creating cascarones (confetti eggs for Easter) with her father and younger sister to memories of being called racial slurs at school, Sofia openly shares with readers all of the things that make her who she is. Sofia’s loving family and close-knit community play a major role in shaping her life, and she longs to find her own place in the community as a comadre (“someone who makes people into a family”) someday. When Sofia is called a “taco head” at school because of the food she brings for lunch every day, she is encouraged by a teacher at her school to get back at the bully by being better than the bully at everything she does. Having been told by the women in her community that she can kick like a mule, Sofia decides to kick the bully at her school by excelling in academics and soccer. This leads Sofia to receive a scholarship to a prestigious, predominately white private school in Austin, and Sofia and her family must decide if this is the right move for her. Sofia decides she is up for the challenge and must convince her family that she can leave the physical space of her community without abandoning the rich culture and loving people that helped shape her life. THE TEQUILA WORM is a touching tale of an endearing character growing up and discovering what it means to truly be a part of a community.

CONNECTIONS:

THE TEQUILA WORM shares a variety of Hispanic cultural traditions. Encourage students to research some of these traditions (origin, significance, etc.) and share their findings.
Invite students to share the role that their culture plays in their lives. How does Sofia’s culture help her make difficult decisions?

Consider Sofia’s point of view. Would you rather leave home to attend the private school or stay in your community and attend your regular school? Write a short diary entry from Sofia’s point of view answering this question.

REVIEWS AND AWARDS:

From BOOKLIST (2005):
“The explanations of cultural traditions never feel too purposeful; they are always rooted in immediate, authentic family emotions, and in Canales’ exuberant storytelling, which, like a good anecdote shared between friends, finds both humor and absurdity in sharply observed, painful situations – from weathering slurs and other blatant harassment to learning what it means to leave her community for a privileged, predominately white school. Readers of all backgrounds will easily connect with Sofia as she grows up, becomes a comadre, and helps rebuild the powerful, affectionate community that raised her.”

From SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL (2005):
“Canales includes vivid descriptions of life in a Mexican-American community. Her prose is engaging and easy to read, making this novel a good choice for reluctant readers.”

Pura Belpre Award Winner 2006

Notable/Best Books ALA 2006

Wilson’s Junior High School

Wilson’s Senior High School

Introduction - Young Adult Literature

Hello! I am adding all new book reviews to this blog, and these reviews will focus on young adult literature. Reviews dated after September 1, 2009 will be specifically designed to meet the requirements for the Advanced Literature for Young Adults course, LS 5623.20, at Texas Woman's University. I look forward to reading, learning, and writing about a variety of young adult literature!