Novelist For the Win! Or, how I got a kid to take three books home.
I love Novelist. I use it daily. Sometimes it isn’t enough that I know the books in my collection. And a proper reader’s advisory interview doesn’t always do it either. At least not to every child. That’s where Novelist comes in handy. It’s not me recommending a book, it’s the know-all computer that is finding books.
I had a great success story yesterday and want to share it. It’s spring break and the weather is more like Christmas break. There are three people involved in this interview: me, Mom, and C. C is a sixth grade boy who appears to be more interested in Wii games than books. He sort of reminded me of Sheldon Cooper. slender, dark hair, didn’t make eye contact.
Mom: C did you say thank you? I didn’t hear thank you [when you asked to reserve that Wii game].
C: thank you very much.
Mom: Did you ask about a book?
C: I don’t need a book… (he heads to the console games)
Mom: I’m trying to get him back into reading. He used to love it. (She has two Terry Pratchett books in her hand trying to decide which book would work for him.)
Me: You know, I’d be happy to help find a book.
Mom: C, Sharon said she’d be happy to help you find a book.
C: that’s okay, I don’t need a book.
{he’s about 10 feet away at this point}
Me: Come on over, C, I can help you.
C: No, I really don’t need one.
Mom: She’ll help you.
C: I have a book.
Me: Oh, what are you reading?
C: Strange Case of Origami Yoda. In fact, I have one… (and he shows me his origami)
Me: Okay, well, what do you like about this book. at this point, I think he is going to tell me he likes the Star Wars angle…if it’s Star Wars, I got nothing.
C: that it’s in middle school.
Sharon opens Novelist
Me: it is in middle school, I liked that part of it too. What else did you like? I showed C the Novelist page for Origami Yoda.
And he tells me that he likes middle school, funny, and realistic fiction.
I started loving Novelist as soon as they came us with the new interface and added the tone, writing style, and storyline options. When I first started at the Downers Grove Library, Novelist didn’t include these options. Before then it was pretty much just subject and age level.
And so, we waited to see what Novelist would give us. And when Novelist presented the Wimpy Kid books first, I thought for sure this interview would end unproductively.
Me: It looks like Wimpy Kid books are most like Origami Yoday.
C: my brother has those, but he doesn’t share.
Me: the library has these books, and we do share.
(I get up)
Me: would you like the first three?
C: yes!
Me: Here you go.
I tell the mom the interchange C and I have.
Mom: he does have those. And he’s right, he won’t share.
So, huzzah to Novelist for the Win. And now I think I’ve some credibility in C’s eyes. He may just come back for something else!
My Poor Print Motivation
I lack print motivation (as defined by Every Child Ready to Read: a child’s interest and enjoyment of books). For the last thirty year (gulp) of my adulthood, I always a book or two going. Lately, not so much. As I wrote on a previous post, I’ve been preoccupied with learning to quilt. Every chance I get, I’m in my sewing room. Worse yet, I haven’t really missed it.
I see my young co-workers talking books; they’re reading everything under the sun. And I think to myself, I remember being like that. Then I think, “They’ll burn out too.” A little shaded on my part. I just think I need to have better balance between reading and quilting. Balance is something I don’t seem to handle well. Oftentimes, it’ all or nothing.
So tell me, how dp you balance reading with other parts of your life?
Keeping the Castle by Patrice Kindl
If I may speak like a children’s librarian for a moment, I lack print motivation. (Print motivation is a child’s interest and enjoyment of books.) I’ve been in a reading funk and actually haven’t enjoyed a book in a very long time. I see the young librarians I work closely with suck up every book under the sun and I think, “I remember being that eager to read.” And, what is worse… I haven’t missed reading. Isn’t that terrible?
Do I blame cable TV? Do I blame the trends in literature that keep me away from this activity I’ve loved for more than my three decades of adulthood? Is it because my work life is full and by the time I get home I just want to crash with my hubba-hubba and doggies? Why can’t reading be part of that time too?
I think it might be fair to blame the new sewing machine… every chance I get I’ve been using it, trying to make pretty things. I truly think it’s good that I’ve finally found a creative outlet, but I also think it’s important to strike a balance. I’m starting to learn that …
There’s a time to quilt and there’s a time to read.
Now it’s up to me to find that balance: in part because it’s a job requirement and, really, because reading is a part of who I am. It has taken a special book to bring me back to the place where I want to read. Keeping the Castle by Patrice Kindl played a real part it that. I’m ready for my next book.
Althea Crawley, it is reported, is the most beautiful woman in Europe. She lives in her family’s estate — it’s an actual castle near Lesser Hoo, Yorkshire. The castle is in need of repair, the family fortune dwindled, and Althea hopes to marry into money in order to save her family home. When a band of monied aristocrats come to Lesser Hoo, Althea puts her hopes and dreams in saving the castle, and her family, by marrying the rich Lord Boring.
Does this sound like Jane Austen’s world? Because it is. I found a happy mix of Emma Woodhouse, Lizzie Bennett, Anne Eliot and other Austen characters rolled up into Althea and her merry band of friends.
I loved how Kindl put the issues of the day out for the modern reader.
What? Oh Miss Vincy! It is all very well to be a dutiful daughter, but really, there are limits! Englishwomen of the nineteenth century are not cattle, not possessions to be bartered off to the first comer!” Well, I said, reconsidering this rash statement, “perhaps they are in a certain sense, but not literally so.” … “Legally they might also be entitled to lock you up in your room or ever cast you out to fend for youreself only clad in your shift, yes, that is true. But in law they cannot force you to wed against your will. unless of course,” I mused, “they have bribed the parson, in which case —”
Women had it rough back then, and Althea meddles to the best of her ability to help her family cope with their meager income. As in any good Austen novel, the protagonist marries for love.
I laughed at the silliness of Kindl’s language: doesn’t the name Lord Boring just tell you what to expect? I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It made me yearn for more books that I can’t put down.
First Sentence:
We were walking in the castle garden.
Reading Chick Rating:
Keeping the Castle by Patrice Kindl has 261 pages and is recommended for students in grades 6 and up.
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Heroes in Training: Zeus and the Thunderbolt of Doom by Joan Holub and Suzanne Williams
King Cronus and his cronies rule the Greek Isles. The gods are age 10 and don’t really know anything of their powers or history. In fact, five of the gods have been magically hibernating in Cronus’ belly since they were babies. Zeus is the only god not in Cronus—he’s been dodging thunderbolts on Crete. When half giants invade Crete, Zeus is taken by boat then Harpies to Greece, where he retrieves a thunderbolt stuck in a rock. Prophecies state the person who can do this is King of the Gods. Speaking of prophecies: he meets the Oracle of Delphi who tells him to follow where the cone-stone leads him. The stone magically annouces to Zeus to find Poseidon and off he goes. When Zeus (and his thunderbolt) meet up with Cronus, a battle ensues and the other godlings escape the belly of the Titan. Only to discover more adventures (in book 2).
This is pretty funny. It has very silly moments and is told rather irreverently. This is an excellent introduction to Greek mythology. The illustrations help carry along the text rather nicely. I look forward to reading how Poseidon finds his trident.
Zeus and the Thunderbolt of Doom by Joan Holub and Suzanne Williams has 100 pages and a 4th grade reading level.
First Sentence:
I am Pythia, the Oracle of Delphi, in Greece. I have the power to see the future.
Reading Chick Rating:
What Came From the Stars by Gary D. Schmidt
If you’re able to, press play and read this review while listening to Nicholas White play JS Bach’s Sleeper’s Wake (an important element to our novel).
The people of the Valorim are in a fight for their life. Civil war is happening on their planet, and in an effort to save the Valorim’s greatest contribution, Art, a necklace/chain is formed and sent into the Universe. If Lord Mondus and his minions can’t harness the Art of Valorim, then they haven’t won completely. As the Art of Valorim travels the Universe, it makes its way to Plymouth, Massachusetts and the new (and horrifying) lunchbox of Tommy Pepper.
Tommy thinks the glowing chain is part of his birthday present, and puts it on. He is instantly consumed by the power of the chain. He starts to speak in the Welsh-like language of the Valorim, and shows an extraordinary talent in drawing and painting.
The text switches between life in Plymouth and on Valorim, where the drama hasn’t ended. The remaining Valorim are imprisoned, the traitors have taken office and are on a desperate quest to find the Art of Valorim. To that end, they send Ouslim the Liar out to find the chain.
On the homefront, Tommy is grieving the death of his mother. He lives with his father, younger — suddenly mute — sister in an old ocean front family cottage. The local realtor wants to build on the property and Tommy’s father is battling that move. When the weather becomes extreme, Tommy knows it involves the chain. Suddenly his teacher is missing and a mysterious, fast talking Mr. PlymouthWay takes his place. He understands thy mysterious pictures Tommy draws; the unusual language that peppers his every day speech. When Tommy refuses to yield the Art of Valorim, Tommy’s family goes missing.
When an warrior from Valorim lands in Plymouth to rescue the necklace from Ouslim the Liar/Mr. PlymouthWay, he meets up with Tommy and his schoolmates. Together they battle Ouslim the Liar and put an end to the Battle.
After the battle, things wrap up a bit too neatly when the Realtor decides to give up the challenge for the land. But all in all I really enjoyed the story. The location plays a huge part in the story: even I can see the analogy of aliens landing in Plymouth. Bach’s Sleepers Wake plays a big part in the story: being ready for the coming Bridegroom. I’m sure there are many more analogies that others smarter than myself can point out, but I liked it very much.
When the story is on Valorim, the text is in italics and reminded me of Le Morte de Arthur. The language lyrical with fancy formed sentences. Schmidt has creating a Welsh-like language and for a good portion of the book, I didn’t know there was a glossary. But good readers can read past words they don’t know and find ways to develop meanings. I liked that about the novel. this is an excellent fantasy: the kind I can relate to… I highly recommend it.
What Came from the Stars by Gary D. Schmidt has 294 pages and is recommended for 5th – 7th graders. Using the readabilty graph, I tested this book at a sixth grade reading level. sh 10/12
First Sentence:
So the Valorim came to know that their last days were upon them.
Reading Chick Rating:
If the ending wrapped up a little more realisticallly….
Hours 2 and on including incidental mini-challenges
I’m easily distracted today. I’m ready, I’m looking at challenges.
Hour 2: i read some more. I eat the breakfast
Hour 3: i notice mini-challenges. I try to do mini-challenges, but my ipad doesn’t like forms to fill out. I waste time figuring out how to do this.
Hour 4: I read. My character mentions a Bach fugue (i think it’s a fugue) so I look it up on youtube. I find many versions while reading. sort of.
Hour 5: my feet are cold. I put on socks, wash dishes, eat lunch. and will get back to reading shortly before Hour 6…. I promise
It’s 3:48 Central time and I’m not quite sure what hour we’re on…. but I’ve finished my novel and I’m trying to craft a post that is worthy of this read. It think I’m calling it a day. I have a concert to go to tonight. Thank you Readathon for re-igniting reading in my life.
It’ 10:20 pm Hour 16 they tell me and I’m back to reading. Twill be a small book….but I’m still going til at least hour Hour 18….
Goodnight. It’s been a good day.
Mini-challenge: recreate the cover
I think most of us would agree, Dan McCarthy’s cover is perfect for what Came From the Stars by Gary D. Schmidt.
But I like a good mini-challenge so I got my Art Set app out and did the best I could.
So far it’s a great book.
Readathon 2012 Hour one
This is it. I hope to put an end to my six month long reading slump. You might note that the last time I posted a book was in April. That pretty much describes my reading this summer. Work was so intense this summer, not even a book could take me away. I didn’t have any free time for any reading challenges this year, which really helps set my pace.
So, all my hopes and dreams are riding on today. Don’t really have all 24 hours either… But if I can get two books finished, I’ll consider today a success.
Happy reading.
My stash.
The Adventures of Sir Balin the Ill-Fated by Gerald Morris
When Balin was christened the Old Woman of the Mountain foretells Balin’s fate with a blessing that is really a curse.
I see greatness in this child! he shall be known as the noblest knight in England…. I see destruction and calamity. His greatness shall bring misfortune on all his companions! he shall do marvelous deeds, but they will only serve him ill! In one day, he shall bring down two kingdoms! He shall strike the Dolorous Stroke!
That’s quite a burden to bear and his parents– his mother hoping he’ll marry “a nice northern girl.” Flash forward 20 years and Balin is in jail for accidentally killing a knight. He’s convinced that his prophecy is true. When being called to the presence of King Arthur, Balin explains his misfortune. The King shows mercy on Arthur and while still at court, accidentally kills a someone else just after being called the Noblest Knight in England. Another prophecy fulfilled.
Sir Balin is released from his accidental deeds and pursues his quest as the Knight with Two Swords. And, at every turn he seems to run into situations that make his prophecy come true. When Balin meets his older brother Sir Balan, the elder brother reminds Balin that the prophecy are just words. Sir Balin continues to do good deeds and help the unfortunate… until the prophecy does come true! He actually strikes “the Dolorous Stroke!”
I’ve always loved the Arthur Tales. And I’m a huge fan of Gerald Morris‘ re-telling of the tales. I found this short little book hilarious. The way the tale is told is funny… although you’d never know it reading this review. The dialog is witty and fast and keeps the reader’s attention. The circumstances thrust upon Balin are silly and set up very cleverly. Although there are large, difficult words they are explained in the text. I”I called you a marplot. Someone who ruins everything.”) This is a delicious tale which I hope spurs the love of Arthurian legends.
The Adventures of Sir Balin the Ill-Fated by Gerald Morris has 93 pages and is recommended for 3 – 5th graders. It has a fourth grade reading level. sh 4/12
First Sentence:
On a quiet night in Northumberland, a family gathered in the richly furnished parlor of their castle.
Reading Chick Rating:
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Bittersweet Summer by Anne Warren Smith
It’s the last day of fourth grade and Katie wonders what her summer will be like. No more Miss Morgan, her beloved fourth grade teacher. To make matters worse, Katie’s best friend Sierra will be out of town leaving her with annoying Claire from across the street. When Katie gets home, she discovers her dad is applying for a job in a different state and they may have to move.
Ugh, it gets worse. Nosy neighbor Claire wants to play matchmaker with Miss Morgan and her dad so she enlists Katie in helping that happen. Miss Morgan loves the idea of hiking and a picnic and she invites Katie and her family along. The two girls play a tug-of-war to get the attention of their teacher. Everybody has a good time and much to the chagrin of Claire decide to do it again.
Meanwhile, the threat of moving is on Katie’s mind. She and her younger brother Tyler have to clean out their rooms to get the house ready for a move when Katie receives happier news. Their mom is coming for a concert. Katie’s mom divorced their dad to pursue her country music career. She still spends time with Katie and Tyler when her tour allows it. Tyler believes that their mom will come home to stay. Katie wants to believe it, but she knows better. That’s the bittersweet part. On the day of the concert, Miss Morgan, Claire and her dad come along. Katie is so excited to see her mom especially when she acknowledges them from the stage. Sweet. After the concert it’s pizza with mom, but Katie is devastated when the pizza has mushrooms. Her mom forgot Katie hates mushrooms. Bitter.
Katie and Tyler and Dad go home and everyone understands that Mom isn’t coming home. But better news prevails when Katie learns her dad won’t be getting a new job. Then Sierra comes home. The story wraps itself up rather nicely when Miss Morgan and Katie’s dad decide to start dating. It’s not a perfect ending. It’s a start, her dad tells her.
I liked Katie. I thought her reactions to Claire, her mom, moving, Miss Morgan were real and developed nicely. It’s not every day you read about mom’s leaving their kids and I thought it was handled well and realistically. I thought the relationship between Katie and Claire was interesting.
Um… I just discovered this is book three in the Katie Jordan series. I didn’t know it, and it certainly wasn’t necessary in enjoying the book. It definitely answers questions I had about the book: surprising lack of Katie’s peers, big focus on adults… but knowing this is an ongoing saga makes up for those shortcomings. All in all, I liked the realistic look at an incomplete family coming to terms with their circumstances.
Bittersweet Summer by Anne Warren Smith has 162 pages and is recommended for grades 3 – 5.
First Sentence:
The Fourth Grade room was unusually quiet as the line of sad kids shuffled forward.
Reading Chick Rating:
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