curriculumreading-blog

[curriculumreading-blog]

In a few words: "A solid and captivating look at these remarkable pioneers of modern fiction."   This book was a pretty quick read because the reading level isn't too high and the tales are woven in high interest fashion.  Recommended for all grades.  Obvious connections to British Literature, but could be a nice addition to a World History class focused on 19th century England.

[curriculumreading-blog]

In a few words: The book offers a different view of the revolution in Iran than we are probably accustomed to hearing.  The parents in the book are Marxists and have very different reasons for deposing the shah.  

Obviously, this book would be a nice addition to 20th Century history or even World History/World Lit if the class gets that far.  I would also suggest this book - or sections of it - to be read by World Religions.  A lot could be done with what happens to Marji throughout the book.

[curriculumreading-blog]

In a few words:  Through the voices of slaves, underground railroad conductors, slaveowners, and auctioneers, we learn about slavery in America.  In one word: Powerful.

Obvious history connections, but this book might be better suited at some point during freshmen year.  It would almost make sense for students to read this prior to coming to Carmel or prior to entering junior year.  

[curriculumreading-blog]

In a few words:  This adventure is gory.  Interwoven in the gore is a teen looking for acceptance of his father and fitting in at school.  

There is a history of grave robbing all around the world.  Teachers can definitely use this book, or even excerpts, to catapult a class into a discussion or a research project based on grave robbing.  

The first act provides a good dose of fitting in and the mindset of doing so.  Might be an interesting read for a Christian Lifestyles class or even a Health class.

[curriculumreading-blog]

In a few words: This teen boy must learn to care for his new baby.

The book talks about the perils of teen sexual relationships and pregnancy.  I feel students will appreciate the writing style and the story.  

Christian Lifestyles classes could do a lot with this book - it would provide for some amazing discussions.  This book could be read relatively quickly - maybe a week.  The reading level is rather lower (8-9 grade) so most students taking Christian Lifestyles should be able to access it.

[curriculumreading-blog]

In a few words: A Chinese-American boy grows up in America.  He struggles to find identity.

Another graphic novel by Yang, but the books are just so well done.  Artwork is amazing and the stories are fun.  

For this book, World Religions might be another good place for this book.  I also feel that sociology students might get something out of how people adapt to new cultures - or, their ancestry.  

This should be a quick read and provide a class with excellent talking points throughout.

[curriculumreading-blog]

In a few words: Follows the life a teen in rehab learning about himself and his disease.

Psych students would have a field day with this book.  It would be a great case study to pick apart.  The story is pretty heavy, so this might be more suitable for juniors or seniors. 

http://labloga.blogspot.com/2009/09/last-night-i-sang-to-monster.html

[curriculumreading-blog]

In a few words: Two graphic novels detailing different sides of the Boxer Rebellion.

The history of the Boxer Rebellion is discussed in these books - we learn how two different protagonists are involved.  For this reason, World History would be a nice connection. 

World Religions would also be a nice connection as the book details ancient Chinese deities and also brings in Joan of Arc and Christianity.  The two religions are shown to have some similarities. 

This is a pretty quick read - many students might finish within a class period. 

[curriculumreading-blog]

In a few words: A series of vignettes tell the story of a Mexican-American girl as she grows up in Chicago.

The obvious connection here would be Chicago History as the story highlights what it was like to live in an impoverished Latino neighborhood in Chicago during what could be the 70s. 

Another connection could be psychology as the protagonist is coming of age throughout the book.  She moves from adolescence through puberty and into young adulthood. 

The book is fairly short and easy to read, but readers could really delve into the story on many different levels.

[curriculumreading-blog]

In a few words: A couple of teens befriend an older recluse.  Think Salinger-light.

The book is written from the point of view of two teenagers (a girl and a boy) as they learn just how frail life is.  The book touches upon parent relationships that could provide reasoning behind many of their behaviors.  Psychology would be a good fit due to the relationships, the points of view, and the mentions of mental illness.  Christian Lifestyles students would benefit from reading about the characters' interactions with the Pigman.