Children and Young Adult Literature

1. Clap When You Land by Elizabeth Acevedo

Acevedo, E. (2020). Clap When You Land. HarperTeen.

Summary:

Camino and Yahaira Rios, who reside in opposite parts of the continent, are in for an unexpected surprise after receiving news that their father has recently passed. While the girls have no idea of each other's existence, they are both about to embark on a new journey to uncover all the secrets their father had kept from them that will lead them to one another. Camino Rios grew up with her aunt, Tia Solana, in Sosua, Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic. However, unaware of her father’s life in Queens, New York, Camino had a half-sister named Yahaira Rios, daughter to Mami. Whilst traveling between them on flight 1112, Papi’s flight was in for a sharp turn as it began to drop abruptly into the Atlantic Ocean, killing all passengers, including himself. Yahaira anxiously hoping for news about survivors from the accident, Camino is being followed by a street hustler. El Cero, the street hustler known for dealing with underage prostitutes, had been paid off to stay away by Papi once before. El Cero has now become a major threat to Camino as Papi is no longer around to pay him off. As weeks progressed, El Cero’s demands became harder to avoid as Camino could no longer meet the financial agreement he and Papi held. Tio Jorge, Camino’s uncle, then called to inform Tia Solana about Papi’s other wife. Although Mami had been warned not to take the sum of money paid to prevent a lawsuit against the airline insurance, she seized the moment and accepted the money. Later, after arrangements are made for Papi’s funeral in the Dominican Republic, Mami forbids Yahaira to attend his services. As soon as Camino has become aware of her half-sister, she becomes admin on reaching out through social media. Soon after the two become acquainted with one another, they begin to devise a plan that will benefit them both. Yahaira will be part of her father’s funeral, and Camino will soon have El Cero off her back by paying him off with the sum of money that Yahaira and her mother received. Yahaira, determined to be present at her father’s ceremony, gives Camino $10,000 to pay the street hustler and buys herself a ticket to the Dominican Republic with her mother's credit card. When Yahaira arrives and gets to know Camino slowly, they learn that they are a lot more alike than they thought. While Mami soon realizes Yahaira’s absence, she joins the newfound sisters. Despite their new relationship, Camino will not let her new opportunity to enter the United States go by stealing Yahaira’s passport. Returning to say her goodbyes, she is cornered by El Cero, but thankfully, Yahaira, Mami, and Tia Solana arrive in time to send him away. With Mami’s connections, she is able to expedite an emergency visa into the United States for Camino. Besides her fears of barely knowing Camino, she steps up to become her guardian and stepmother. As they are about to land, Yahaira warns her that when they land, some might clap in celebration.

Response to Text:

This novel-in-verse book is a book that many readers are going to love. The way the book is written appeals to the reader because it is written in poetry form. This story also goes in deep to talk about loss, forgiveness, and bonds. Readers can relate to this because many have gone through the loss of family, not being able to forgive someone because of something that happened in the past, and reconnecting with a sister after a tragic accident.

2. The Poet X by Elizabeth Acevedo

Acevedo, E. (2018).The Poet X. HarperCollins.

Summary:

Xiomara is a 15-year-old young girl who feels unwanted. Her twin brother Xavier is smart and attends a private school. Xiomara is attending confirmation classes with her best friend, Caridad. Xiomara doesn't want to be confirmed, but her mom threatens her that if she doesn't do it, she will send her back to the Dominican Republic. Xiomara's mom always wanted to be a nun, but she was forced to get married. Xiomara starts the first day of her sophomore year with Ms. Galiano, her English teacher. Every day after school, Xiomara does chores at home. She then writes in her journal how lonely she feels and how she wants to disappear. In her biology class, she meets a guy named Aman, who she develops a crush immediately. Although she is not allowed to date, she still sits next to Aman. Ms. Galiano suggests to Xiomara that she should join the poetry club. She wants to join the club, but she doesn't think she can because of her mother. As weeks pass by, Xiomara spends more time with Aman in which she starts to masturbate at night. She then notices her brother texting someone and being unusually giggly. One day after school, Xiomara and Aman go to the park and kiss. One day Twin comes home with a black eye, and he won't say what happened. On Monday, Xiomara goes to her brother's school to beat up the person who punched him, but instead, she sees her brother with another boy. She then realizes her brother is gay. On a day out with Aman, they kiss, and Xiomara's mom sees them. Her mom is super upset and makes her kneel on rice. Xiomara gets mad because Aman doesn't defend her. Xiomara then decides to be in the poetry club because that is the place where she feels respected and heard. For her birthday, Twin gave her a new notebook for her poetry. Everything is going well until one day, her mom finds her journal and lights it on fire. Xiomara leaves to Aman's house, and he comforts her. The next day she gets help from her friends and family to talk to her mom. Xiomara and her mom begin counseling to work on their relationship. Xiomara attends the poetry slam with the support of her loved ones. As her final assignment, she writes about her favorite verse and says that poetry is like church because it brings people together.

Response to Text:

Xiomara's life is something that I know students can relate to. Many students go through the struggle of their mom being religious and feeling not wanted and insecure. It also brings up the topic of her brother having to hide the fact that he is gay because of the religious beliefs that the family has. This novel shows the perspective of a young girl in high school who is struggling with family, love, and body image issues. Those are all topics that most of our students go through, especially when everything starts changing and their hormones are all over the place. I know that I was able to connect with some aspects of this book because of my experiences, and I know that many students will able to connect with Xiomara and her life issues.

3. Speak: The Graphic Novel by Laurie Halse Anderson

Anderson, L. H., & Carroll, E. (2018). Speak The Graphic Novel. Farrar, Straus and Giroux (Byr).

Summary:

Melinda, a freshman at Merryweather High School, begins the year with a huge secret. During the summer, she attended a party with her friends, and she ended up calling the police. Calling the police caused her to be rejected by her friends and everyone who attended the party. Melinda only has one friend, and her name is Heather, but Heather is trying to involve Melinda in different schemes so they can gain popularity. Still, Melinda is not interested in gaining popularity. Melinda spends most of her time alone in a janitor's closet. She avoids going to classes of teachers she doesn't like by hiding out in the closet. She also hides in the closet to avoid painful interactions with her former friends. There is only one place in the school where she feels at peace, which is her art class. In art class, they are working on a project where they are creating various interpretations of a tree. While at school, she tries to avoid Andy Evans because of what he did to her. Every time Andy sees Melinda, he antagonizes her, which makes her relive the horrible experience she went through. Her parents and school counselor question her about what is happening, but she stays in silence. Months later, after so much depression, she finally admits that Andy raped her at the party last summer. After finally speaking out, Melinda begins to recover and feels free. In the end, Melinda gains the respect of the school, as many other girls spoke out about how they also suffered silently. She ends the school year by pulling herself out of her depression, finishing her tree art project, and telling her art teacher everything she experienced.

Response to Text:

This graphic novel will help students understand that, yes, bad things happen that will cause you to be sad at times, but they need to speak up and not stay silent. It also shows the readers that they will get past the bad situation and they can overcome anything they go through. This graphic novel will give inspiration to any person who reads this book. The stunning art and the visual aspect in the book add a different layer to the story. The black and white drawings reflect the feelings of Melinda and the pain she suffered.

4. The One and Only Bob by Katherine Applegate

Applegate, K., & Castelao, P. (2020). The One and Only Bob. Harper, an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers.

Summary:

The One and Only Bob revolves around Bob and his coming into the world with the uncertainty of how he survived falling from a truck and whether others survived the fall. Bob born under a porch vividly remembers being born with five other puppies while one day his mother’s owner took all the puppies on a ride on the highway launching each of them out of the window. Bob a survivor walked himself over to the mall where he met Ivan. Through the span of two years, Bob lived as stray spending most of his time with Ivan. Ivan lived in the mall for at least 27 years with Stella the elephant. Then Ruby the baby elephant came along and shortly after Stella passed asked Ivan to help Ruby one day escape the mall. Ivan painted pictures that captured the eye of activists to move Ruby and Ivan to a sanctuary. Although Bob had been enjoying life with his newfound owner Julia, he still considered himself streetwise. Bob awakes from a horrid nightmare where he feels helpless while Ivan and Ruby are in a flooding river and did not know how to save them. Soon he learns of a hurricane that is approaching while he can smell the storm that is whirling with dark skies. Julia accompanies Bob to visit Ivan and Ruby at the sanctuary they then are told to make the visit quick because of the approaching storm. As Bob sits between both the gorilla and elephant enclosure talking to his friends the other elephants frantically call on Ruby to come inside. Ivan then goes back inside as well whilst Bob dashed towards Julia but unable to make it to Julia because he slipped into the gorilla enclosure. But Julia unable to rescue Bob as her father yanks on her arm telling her Bob will be fine. All alone and afraid Bob fights to regain balance while a tornado swoops in taking him flying into the giraffe enclosure. Struggling to find his friends in the storm he finally finds Ruby and helped save a baby gorilla. Now in search of Ivan, they are able to locate him buried under rubble everyone including humans and canine aid Ivan out and cheer him on as he sits up. Bob also recalls being awakened by a familiar bark in his dream which he now knows is no longer just a dream and is now in search of the familiar bark that he believes to be his sister Boss. Boss had been missing since the day they were thrown out the window on the highway but Bob recalls hearing the bark shortly after and keeping hope that it could be Boss. Bob is on a mission to find Boss when all of a sudden he hears a bark coming from inside the animal shelter near the sanctuary. Bob sprints to the shelter and is abruptly shoved into a cage with other dogs where he finds Boss which she then shares that she’s had abandoned a puppy in the car that they were rescued from. Bob is able to reach the puppy in a car floating in the river he then jumps in to save the day getting the puppy to safety while they wait for Julia’s arrival. Boss was untraceable after disappearing from the doughnut shop but sometime after Boss appears at Bob’s house and barks for him to let her in.

Response to Text:

This book has very beautiful illustrations in which it gives the reader an image of what to imagine in their mind when they are reading the book. It shows the reader within all of us we have the courage that we never knew we had. We need to dig deep inside to find our courage. It also shows the reader the true meaning of friendship and family. As a reader of the book, it appealed to me because of the beautiful message it gives of courage, friendship, and family, and as well because of the illustrations that were used. It shows that no matter what we are, either human or animal we have to overcome our fears for the ones we love.

5. Worm Loves Worm by J.J. Austrian

Austrian, J. J., & Curato, M. (2016). Worm loves Worm. Balzer + Bray.

Summary: Worm and Worm decide to get married because they love each other. Cricket came and told worm and worm that someone needed to marry them so he said that he will marry them. Then Beetle came and said that to get married they needed a best beetle and he said he would do it. Bees came and that they needed bride’s bees to get married and asked if they could do it. Worm said yes and the wedding can begin. Cricket tells worm and worm that they will need rings and they can wear them like belts. Beetle then says that they need to have music to dance. Even though they don’t have feet they can wiggle around. The bride’s bees then say that worm and worm need a white dress, tuxedo, hat, and a cake. Spider then volunteers to make them hats and flowers with the sticky web. The bride’s bees then ask who is the bride and worm and worm said that they are both the bride. Beetle asks who is the groom and worm and worm said that they are both the groom. Cricket says that both being the bride and groom isn’t how it’s always done and worm said that they are going to change how it’s done and finally they got married because Worm loves Worm.

Response To Text:

The illustrations portray very well the story and show that no matter what people say if you love someone and you are happy what others say doesn’t matter. This world has always been very traditional, and this book teaches the readers that you can change how things are done as longest you are happy. The illustrations of worm and worm both using something of a bride and groom show that you don’t always have to do what people say. You should be who you are and be with who you love.

6. What Do You Do with a Voice Like That?: The Story of Extraordinary Congresswoman Barbara Jordan by Chris Barton

Barton, C., & Holmes, E. (2018). What do you do with a voice like that?: The story of Extraordinary Congresswoman Barbara Jordan. Beach Lane Books.

Summary: Barbara Jordan grew up in Houston, Texas. Barbara stood out particularly because of her voice. She had a bold and loud voice that people took notice of. Barbara used her voice in many ways, and she was proud of her voice because it was laying a path for her. Barbara wondered exactly what path her voice was taking her to and what she will do with her voice. She then got inspired to be a lawyer because that would be a marvelous use of her bold voice. She studied to become a lawyer, and when she finished, she realized that being a lawyer is boring to her. She used more of a pen than her voice. Barbara got involved in politics, and the day she spoke, the audience loved her and were inspired by her. Barbara's voice had made a difference. She decided to put her voice to public use, and she decided to run for political office. She lost the first two times, but the third time she won. Barbara had become a Texas state senator. She spoke out for changes that were important. Sometimes she didn't get the changes she wanted. She became friends with other senators, and together, they worked to do a better job. Barbara decided to move up to the United States Congress in Washington D.C. The speech she made when president Nixon broke the law made her a star. She used her voice to protect the rights of the people. What people didn't know was that Barbara was privately struggling with a nerve disease. She decided to step down from Congress and went back home, where she became a teacher. She showed her students to no be afraid of making their voices be heard.

Response to Text:

The vivid illustration shows the power and changes Barbara wanted to make. This book teaches the readers that it is important to speak up for the rights of the people. I emphasize that if you have the voice to speak and not be afraid, you can make a difference by being the voice for the people who can't speak out. Barbara influenced many with her powerful voice and a strong sense of values. The values it portrays will appeal to readers because we need someone who can use their bold and loud voice to make a change with all the bad in this world.

7. Chick and Brain: Smell My Foot! by Cece Bell

Bell, C. (2019). Chick and Brain: Smell My Foot! Candlewick Press.

Summary:

Chick likes to follow the rules and Brain, well he is not as smart as he looks. Brain wants Chick to smell his foot. Chick says no that he won't smell it. Brain says that it smells great. Chick says that he will smell his foot until Brain says please. Chick gives an example of how to ask by saying please and Brain ends up smelling Chick's foot. Brain finally says please and Chick smells his foot. Chick says that his foot smells great. Chick and Brain meet Spot the dog. Brain asks Spot to smell his foot. Chick again gives Brain an example of how to say please and Spot ends up smelling Chick's foot. Spot says that Chick's foot smells great. Chick asks Spot nicely to smell Brain's foot and he does but he thinks that Brain's foot smells good but not great. Spot loves the smell of Chick's foot because it smells like chicken and he thinks it's yummy. Spot invites Chick to his house for lunch. Chick agrees to go because Spot said please, so they head out to his house. Spot puts chick in a bowl and tries to put salt and pepper on him. Suddenly someone knocks on the door and its Brain. He asks Spot to smell his foot and when he does he faints. Brain tries to explain to Chick that Spot invited him over for lunch just to eat him. Chick compliments Brain by telling him that he is smart. When Spot starts waking up Chick leaves and Brain asked Spot to smell his foot again.

Response to text: This book was very interesting in a way that although at first, it didn't make sense to me, I finally understood that the story is teaching manners but in a different way. The comics that are used are funny and explain the whole story in detail. The illustrations are a great appeal to readers and they will definitely think that it is a funny way to teach readers how to say please, thank you, and you're welcome.

8. The Dead Bird by Margaret Wise Brown

Brown, M. W., & Charlip, R. (2016). The Dead Bird. Harper, an imprint of HarperCollinsPublishers.

Summary:

Children were at the park playing when they found a dead bird. The children saw the bird and realized that it had just died because it was warm. The children touched the bird to feel its heartbeat in its chest but there was no heartbeat. That is how the children knew it was dead. The children picked up the bird and its body began to get cold. When animals die, they get cold stone with no heartbeat. The children felt sad because the bird was dead but felt happy because they were able to bury it in the woods. They diged a whole on the ground, wrapped the bird with grass, and covered it with flowers. Then they sang a song to the bird about how the bird was never going to be able to fly. They cried, sang, and put a stone on the bird's grave. Every day, until they forgot they went to the grave to visit the bird and put fresh flowers.

Response to Text:

The appeal that will attract readers to this book is because of the different children that are playing together. It shows the readers that you can be friends with different people no matter race, culture, or skin color. I showed this book to my students and they loved it because the illustrations are very bright and the children are all dressed up in costumes. The book also speaks about having compassion for others no matter if they are not the same as you. When they saw the dead bird they buried it and even sang a song. The book has a balance of being said because of the bird but also a lesson of remembering someone you lost but eventually moving on.

9. Hair Love by Matthew A. Cherry

Cherry, M. A., & Harrison, V. (2019). Hair Love. Kokila.

Summary:

Zuri is a young girl who has hair that has a mind of its own. There are times she doesn't like her hair, but her dad reminds her that her hair is beautiful. When mom does her hair, Zuri feels like a princess and/or a superhero, but when mom is not home, dad is the one that needs to do her hair. Zuri notices that her dad is tired of working and taking care of her, so she decides to attempt to do her own hair. She wanted to look beautiful because that day was a special day. Dad steps in to help her, and it's not going as planned. He does different hair does on Zuri, but she doesn't like them. Dad told her he wasn't going to give up and made her a hairstyle that she Zuri loved. Zuri put on her superhero cape and was ready for the moment her mom came back. Mom came back to hugs and love from dad and Zuri. Zuri then realized that her hair is love.

Response to Text:

This book teaches children and adults to love their natural hair the way it is. Many children have a problem with their hair because it's curly, straight, or puffy. It helps them understand that you should love it no matter what type of hair you have because it is unique. This book also celebrates the relationship between fathers and daughters. The love Zuri and her dad have for each other can be portrayed through the illustrations of the book.

10. New Kid by Jerry Craft

Craft, J. (2019). New kid. Quill Tree Books.

Summary: Jordan Banks is a middle school student who loves expressing his life experiences through drawing. He feels lost and confused when his parents send him to a prestigious academy. Jordan was impressed by the school, but he still feels lost. Jordan then gets bullied by a boy named Andy who makes fun of his height and makes ugly stereotypical comments about his race. Jordan's dad knows that he wants to go to art school and he understands the position he holds being a Black student in a majority white school but his mom wants him to learn what is necessary to succeed in life. AS the year passes by Jordan changes his appearance as he deals with people calling him names and telling him things. His education at the new school starts pushing him away from his old friends. Jordan becomes friends with Liam a wealthy boy who would rather be playing video games. Jordan also meets Drew, a boy with a disadvantaged background who is smart and a good athlete. At first, Jordan is scared for his two friends to meet but with his grandfather's encouragement, he brings his two friends together. Jordan's teacher finds his sketchbook and starts criticizing him by saying that he should be grateful that he is attending that school. Jordan says that he is just expressing how he feels through his sketches. Ms. Slate, Jordan's art teacher encourages him to paint and abstract work. In the end, Jordan arrives at school without his jacket and more confidence than before.

Response to Text:

This graphic novel speaks about feeling lost in a new school where diversity is low and it is a struggle to fit in. Readers will appeal to this book because maybe some of them are experiencing being at a new school and feeling lost. The comic drawings help the reader understand how Jordan is feeling as see how he is being treated because of his race. It truly depicts his feelings, his courage, and the confidence he gains towards the end of the book.

11. Snappsy the Alligator by Julie Falatko

Falatko, J., & Miller, T. (2016). Snappsy the Alligator. Viking Books for Young Readers.

Summary:

Snappsy is reading a book when a narrator comes in and starts to add things to the story by saying that something was wrong with snappsy and he wasn’t feeling like himself. Snappsy then interrupts and says that he was just hungry. The narrator continues by saying that snappsy is a big and mean alligator that is going to eat birds and bunnies. The narrator is making snappsy seem like he is looking for victims, but in reality, he was going to a grocery store to buy food. The narrator says that snappsy is buying food that only starts with the letter “P,” but snappsy says it’s not true. The narrator says that snappsy, the big mean hungry alligator goes back to a lopsided shack. Snappsy gets upset because he built the shed himself. Snappsy goes inside, and the narrator is asking himself what snappsy is doing inside. The narrator starts to say that he might be roasting creatures or making an evil plan, but snappsy was just making a peanut butter jelly sandwich. Snappsy tells the narrator that he is planning a party and starts to clean. Snappsy gets upset because he didn’t ask to be in the book, and he just wanted the narrator to leave him alone. The party gets started, and all of snapssy's friends are having fun. Snappsy then invites the narrator to the party. The narrator then says that snappsy was a good host and that he enjoyed the party very much.

Response to Text:

Snapssy the alligator teaches readers not to judge a book by its cover. Just because he is an alligator doesn't mean that he is a vicious animal. This teaches readers not to judge people by what they look like on the outside. It also teaches about friendship and accepting people for who they are. The illustrations are very vibrant and depict the story very well, which will appeal to the reader. When I read the book, I laughed at illustrations that showed Snappsy with the cute bunnies and birds.

12. Redwood and Ponytail by K.A. Holt

Holt, K. A. (2019). Redwood and Ponytail. Chronicle Books.

Summary:

This a story about Tam and Kate, two middle school girls who start developing feelings for each other. Tam is the girl jock who is always mistaken for a boy, and Kate the popular cheerleader. They repeatedly bump into each other and surprise each other. Kate, the cheerleader, seems to believe that Tam the jock is everything Kate wishes she could be. Tam starts doubting that she can fit in Kate's perfect world without realizing that Kate was suffering behind closed doors. Kate's mom wanted her to manipulate herself into becoming the cheer captain. Kate is afraid about her feelings, but Tam balances Kate out with her high spirit and confidence. To both of them, their world seems to be full of complications, except when it’s not. Kate and Tam think relationships are easy and simple till they find out it is a little more complicated than it seems. Both girls go through a process where they have to accept the feeling they feel for each other and accept each other for who they really are.

Response to Text:

The way the book was written was exciting to read, and that caught my attention right away. The book's meaning will appeal to many readers because a lot of people are scared to accept what they feel and who they really are because of the fear of being rejected or disappoint the family and friends. This book will teach the reader not to be afraid and be happy with who you are. Readers will enjoy reading poetry verse books.

13. We are Growing by Laurie Keller

Keller, L., & Willems, M. (2016). We are growing! Hyperion Books for Children.

Summary:

One day in a small green patch of grass, one of the pieces of grass grew. Everyone else was astonished because he grew. Then little by little, all the grass in the patch grew. There was tall grass, curly grass, silly grass, pointy grass, crunchy grass, and dandelion grass. Walt didn't know what kind of grass he was. Then a lawn mower came across and cut all the patch of grass, and they were all the same. The grass got sad because they were nothing anymore. Then they found out that they will grow again and they got happy. Walt finally realized that he was neatest and that they all are something-est.

Response to Text:

This book will be funny for children to read because the story has an entertaining plot, but it also teaches that everyone has something special. It might take a bit longer to figure it out, but eventually, you will find the unique thing you have. The colors, pictures, and meaning of the book

14. Antiracist Baby by Ibram X. Kendi

Kendi, I. X., & Lukashevsky, A. (2020). Antiracist baby. Kokila.

Summary:

An antiracist baby is raised and not born. Babies are taught to be either racist or antiracist. There are nine steps that can be taken to treat all people equally. Antiracist baby learns color because race is true. Antiracist baby uses words to stop racism violence. Antiracist baby points at policies as the problem because they don't grant equal access. Antiracist baby says that all people are the same. Antiracist baby loves the diversity that is found in this world. Antiracist baby appreciates the uniqueness of every culture. Antiracist baby confesses racist ideas. Antiracist baby grows and changes. Antiracist baby grows to be an antiracist. Antiracist baby doesn't judge and believes we should overcome racism.

Response to Text: This book's appeal is that it shows the readers that racism is something that you are not born with, but you are taught. Racism is something that we see many people experiencing in this world, and this book can be very relatable to many readers. This book will teach the readers that every race, culture, and skin color is beautiful and should be appreciated for its uniqueness. The illustrations of the books are very beautiful and portray the nine steps for equality well.

15. Fry Bread: A Native American Family Story

Maillard, K. N., & Martinez-Neal, J. (2019). Fry Bread: A Native American Family Story. Roaring Brook Press.

Summary:

Fry bread is many different ingredients mixed in a big bowl. Fry bread is shaped flat, round, or puffy. Fry Bread makes a sound when it is being cooked in the skillet. Fry bread has a golden-brown color and warm like the sun. Fry bread has a delicious flavor. Fry bread is time that brings family and friends together. Fry bread is an art that is shared within a culture or heritage. Fry bread is a history in which new recipes were created because they came to a strange land with strange food. Fry bread is a place because it can be eaten across the land. Fry bread is the nation of hundreds of tribes. Frybread is everything. It represents the people who are still together that give strength to each other.

Response to Text:

This book will appeal to the readers not only because of the beautiful illustrations of the fry bread and the family but also because of the book's meaning. The book talks about family and the people it represents. It represents the nationality of tribes and the people who give strength to each other. The illustrations appeal to the readers because they show children with their family cooking together. It represents families being together and making new memories.

16. The Next President: The Unexpected Beginnings and Unwritten Future of America’s Presidents by Kate Messner

Messner, K., & Rex, A. (2020). The Next President: The Unexpected Beginnings and Unwritten future of America's Presidents. Chronicle Kids, Chronicle Books.

Summary:

America only has one president at a time but that is the beauty of the United States. The president of tomorrow is somewhere out there not knowing that he/she might be the next president. Some already know they want to be president, others are learning government, and others don't have a clue that they will become president. When George Washington was president there were 9 future presidents already alive. President 2 was John Adams, who was known for having a short temper. President 3, was Thomas Jefferson who was secretary of state. President 4, James Madison, represented Virginia in a nation's new Congress. President 5 James Monroes, dropped out of law to join the military. President 6, John Quincy was about to open his own legal practice. President 7, Andrew Jackson had a reputation as an outsider with a furious temper. The book continues to discuss what the other future presidents were doing at the time when another president was in office. It's exciting to think that the future president is walking among us and we may never know who it might be someone we know. When we vote for president we look at the future and hope for a better tomorrow. The future president is listening, learning, and getting ready to lead.

Response to text:

This book gives hope to readers that they can become presidents as well. The presidents were normal people just like them and they will inspire the readers to work hard at becoming something great like the president of the United States. The illustrations give an extra visual for the readers to see how the presidents looked when they were younger and adults. The illustrations and learning about the presidents is a great appeal for readers who want to learn some history about presidents or even to motivate themselves to make a change for a better tomorrow.

17. Dog Man by Dav Pilkey

Pilkey, D. (2016). Dog Man. Graphix.

Summary:

An evil cat named Petey is overseeing a cop named Officer Knight and his pet dog named Greg. Petey, the evil cat, says Officer Knight has a strong body for fighting, but he is not very smart. Greg is brilliant, but his body is not suitable for action. Petey, the evil cat, sets off a bomb, planning to kill both Officer Knight and Greg. The doctors say that Officer Knight's head is dying, and Greg's body is dying in the hospital. So A nurse comes up with an idea to sew Greg's head on Officer Knight's body, saving them both. When Petey, the evil cat, hears the news, he realizes he has accidentally created Dog Man, the perfect crime-fighting cop. Petey, the cat, then makes a giant vacuum, planning to suck Dog Man up. The vacuum bag sucked up so much water from the sea that it exploded, creating a huge wave. Dog Man surfs out on a surfboard that the vacuum also sucked up, saving Petey the evil cat from being washed away and then arresting him. Throughout the book, Dog Man shows a strong bond with the police Chief, though Dog Man is often in trouble for misbehaving. However, when an evil Mayor fires the Chief, Dog Man puts an end to the corrupt mayor's plan and helps the Chief get his job back. Petey, the cat, constantly escapes from Cat Jail, so Dog Man repeatedly captures evil. While Dog Man is constantly battling Petey's plans, he faces other villains as well. Flat Petey made of paper is just as evil as normal Petey. Flat Petey forces a witch doctor to obey his every command. Flippy, the fish, becomes another of Dog Man's opponents. Flippy is naturally evil; he robs stores and battles with Dog Man, which good always wins over evil.

Response to Text:

This graphic novel is full of colorful drawings that add more energy to the book. The book will appeal to readers because it is very hilarious. This book is full of funny entertainment that all readers will love. The book teaches the readers empathy, kindness, and persistence. I was attracted to the book because it has a comic book look to it, because it showed the importance of being true to one's self and never be afraid of being who you are. It appeals to readers because it explores universally positive themes that readers need to be reminded of.

18. My Papi Has a Motorcycle by Isabel Quintero

Quintero, I., & Pena, Z. (2019). My Papi Has a Motorcycle. Kokila.

Summary:

Daisy’s dad rides a motorcycle, and from his, she has learned very important words. She anxiously awaits his return from work. When she hears his truck, she runs outside with two helmets. Her Papi is a carpenter, and no matter how tired he is, he always has time for her. Her dad takes her for a ride on his motorcycle to show her the new houses he is working on. When she feels her dad's hand, they do not feel rough or tired; they feel like all the love he has. He puts her on the motorcycle, and they take off. She loves how the motorcycle reflects on the sun, making it look like a comet soaring through the street. They are zig-zagging through the streets, passing a tortilleria, a meat market, a mural that tells the history of the immigrants, and famous road races. They stop at a raspa stand to just realize that it was closed and out of business. They are both disappointed because they can imagine the delicious raspa with the sweet syrup. She loves to hear the sound of everyone and everything that they pass. They drive past her grandparents’ house and say hi. The dogs start chasing them down the street. They ride by the new houses being built. They ride past the city, and she cannot help but be amazed by the beauty and all the colors. They head back home to the finish line of their driveway. She reflects on the city and its changes through all the changes that still have to come. She likes that day she gets to ride with Papi on the motorcycle every day around her community.

Response to Text:

The text that was used within the illustration made the story very fun to read. Readers can relate because it speaks about the relationship between a father and his daughter. This story brings a new meaning to home and culture. The beautiful illustrations show her culture and the feeling that no matter how much things change around you, the love of your family will never change. This book will appeal to readers because of its message and how it illustrates the Mexican culture and the love a family and community have for each other.

19. After the Fall: How Humpty Dumpty Got Back up Again by Dan Santat

Santat, D. (2017). After the Fall: How Humpty Dumpty Got Back up Again. Roaring Brook Press.

Summary:

After the fall, we see the struggle Humpty Dumpty deals with after he falls from the wall. After being put back together, Humpty’s fear of heights prevented him from enjoying the thing he enjoyed most, watching the birds and being above the city. Humpty eventually settled on watching the birds from the ground; even though it was not the same, he tried to enjoy it. One day Humpty came across an idea of his own and started to make a paper plane of his own; after multiple attempts, he got it just right. Humpty enjoyed it even though it was not the same; it was the closest he has gotten to watching what he loves the most, watching the birds. While enjoying his plane, an unfortunate incident occurred when his plane went over the wall. Humpty decided to make a courageous choice and climb the wall to get even though he was afraid, he continued climbing up until he reached the top, and he finally felt free of his fear. Humpty eventually became what he knew he could be and hopes to be remembered for the accomplishment instead of his failure.

Response to Text: Readers will enjoy reading this book because it is a twist to the original nursery rhyme. This book will help readers learn never to give up. This book will also encourage even the most afraid person to overcome their fears, learn to get back up--and reach new heights. The illustrations show how Humpty feels in a dark, sad world until he learns to be brave and overcome what he is afraid of. The meaning of the story will be something students will enjoy reading and feel inspired at the same time.

20. The Hate you Give by Angie Thomas

Thomas, A. (2017). The hate u give. HarperCollins.

Summary:

Starr Carter is a sixteen-year-old African American girl who is attending a primarily white school. Starr is going to a party in her neighborhood with Kenya. Keyna is her friend, with whom she shares an older half-brother. Starr runs into a childhood friend, Khalil, whom she hasn't seen in a long time. During the party, gunshots from a gang fight are heard, and the party gets canceled. Khalil offers to take Starr home. Khalil gets pulled over by a white police officer with badge number one-fifteen. Khalil questions why he got pulled over, and the cop orders him out of the car. The cop searches him and commands Khalil not to move. Khalil returns to his car, opens the door to check on Starr, and the officer shoots him. At school on Monday, Starrfeels tense around her white friend and boyfriend because she feels they don't understand her. Starr's uncle, a police officer, urges Starr to go into the police station to testify about the shooting. Starr begins to worry that justice for Khalil will not be served. At the funeral, a lawyer and activist confirm Starr's worries when she finds out that the police will not pursue legal action against the police officer that shot Khalil. Days of protest in Garden Heights occurred when the news broke about the police officer not being prosecuted. Starr's father gets into an argument with a barber, and two police officers show up. When they realize that he is Starr's father, they push him to the ground. Experiencing that scary event, Starr decides that she will no longer be silent. Starr will testify against the case of one-fifteen, the police officer who shot Khalil. Starr also agrees to do a TV interview. In the interview, she talks about the truth behind Khalil's drug dealing. The night before her testimony, someone throws a brick and fires a gun into her home. Starr gets scared for a moment about testifying but decides that Khalil needs the truth. Two months later, the jury announces no to indict one-fifteen. Starr gets involved in a protest for justice. The police get involved and use tear gas. Starr and her friends go to her family store to get milk to help heal their eyes. An ablaze happens in the store, trapping them inside, but Starr's father arrives in time to open the back door. King, the gang member, involved in the ablaze, is taunting them and is proud of getting revenge. The police show up and arrest King. Starr vows to continue fighting for justice for Khalil and all other black people who have been killed at the hands of the police.

Response to Text:

This book was one of the best books I have read so far. Starr not only experienced one death of her friends but two. This book really touched my heart because she was put through a situation, and no matter the consequences she did what was right. This book will be relatable to many students because many of the students have either seen a friend or relative's death or experienced some type of racism because of their skin color or cultural background. My personal experience has been that I have been treated badly at stores or restaurants because I am Mexican. This story brings to light that there should be justice in this world and that just because we are a specific race doesn't mean they have more of a privilege than others. This story will help students understand that they can overcome a scary experience and that they should never stop fighting for what is right.

New York Times Bestseller for Children

The New York Times bestseller books are books that best-selling in the United States. For these books to be considered best-selling they must be books with powerful messages that the readers can relate to and fun stories to read. In the following paragraphs, I am going to discuss each of the 10 books on the bestseller list and also discuss trends and topics that I see between all books. This list is the bestseller list for books on July 5, 2020.

The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson is a book where children learn to embrace their differences. This book has been on the bestsellers list for 15 weeks and I can see why. This book teaches readers that there will be many reasons that you will different or feel like you stand out because you might look or talk different, but it is okay. We need to find the courage to connect with other people even though we might feel scared or alone. We all are unique in our way and that is what makes us special.

I Love Dad with the Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle is a perfect book to use to tell your dad that you love him. The book displays the beautiful artwork of animal dad and their babies. This book has been on the bestseller list for 14 weeks. I love you dad is a perfect book for any person that wants to tell their dad they love them.

Hair Love by Matthew A. Cherry is a book that empowers people to love their hair the way it is. In this book, mom is gone and dad has to do her hair. At first, they struggle, and she feels sad, but her dad will do anything to keep her happy. This book has been on the bestseller list for 11 weeks. This book empowers loving your hair and the love of dads and daughters everywhere. It helps them understand that you should love it no matter what type of hair you have because it is unique

I am enough by Grace Byers is about loving who you are. It teaches about respecting others and being kind to the people around you. I am enough is about having self-acceptance and self-empowerment. This book has been on the bestseller list for 10 weeks.

Last stop on Market Street by Matt de la Pena is a book about appreciating the beauty around you and enjoying the small moments in life. Many things can be perceived differently if you pay attention to the details that are important. This book will teach the children to appreciate the world they live in and see it with different eyes. This book has been on the bestseller list for 22 weeks. This book illustrates honesty and gratitude.

The world needs more purple people by Kristen Bell and Benjamin Hart offers a message about embracing the things that bring us together as human beings. This book has been on the bestseller list for 3 weeks. This book teaches children to be themselves, stand up for others, and work hard.

Waiting is not Easy! by Mo Williams teaches that patience is a virtue. This will be a great lesson to teach students that even though it is difficult to wait they need to be patient. This book has been on the bestseller list for 77 weeks. This book is perfect because young children can relate to it because of the message of patience, the illustrations, and the simple words.

The Wonderful Things You Will Be by Emily Winfield Martin teaches children that their parents will accept them and love them no matter what they decide to do in life. Their parents want the best for them because they love them and care. This book has been on the bestseller list for 239 weeks and it’s not a shocker why. This book celebrates the future of many possibilities. The illustrations convey well the acceptance and love that parents have for their children.

All Are Welcome by Alexandra Penfold and Suzanne Kaufman is a celebration of kindness and diversity at a school. This book portrays a day in a school where everyone is welcomed with open arms. All the children are friends, and the students learn from each other’s traditions and culture. This book has been on the bestseller list for 14 weeks.

Sulwe by Lupita Nyong’on is a book about how Sulwe discovers her inner beauty after taking a journey with a shooting star. Sulwe doesn’t feel beautiful because her hair is dark as night and all she wants is to be beautiful like her mom and sisters. This book has been on the bestseller list for 10 weeks. This story inspires readers to see their own unique beauty.

After reading the summaries of the ten books I saw many of the books had similarities between them. The trends that are similar between many of the books were about accepting who you are and loving your uniqueness. As well it talks about the love between the parents and their children. The books as well portray powerful messages of loving one another no matter what skin color, race, or culture. When you look at the books as a whole list you see a variety of books that represent similar experiences that teach you to have courage and love one another. These books are on this list because they are empowerment to contemporary readers who read the books and to people who the book is being read to.