TriState Young Adult Book Review Committee Linda McNeil , Chairperson Spring 1998 The Tri State Young Adult Book Review Committee has been in existence for more than 25 years. It has evolved over the decades into an organization comprised of dedicated professionals interested in evaluating new resources and sharing these findings with others professionals in the field. The committee is a fluid group that represents both public schools, public libraries, private schools in the Tri-State area of Pennsylvania, Delaware, and New Jersey. It meets several times throughout the year to share their evaluations with each other and compile their Books of Note list. The committee is supported by a large number of publishers that send books and materials for review and evaluation. The opinions and reviews are then shared with the companies involved. The companies are able to utilize these reviews and comments to publicize their books. Each year the committee compiles a list of notables from their collective readings and reviews. Books of Note is the title of this list. For a book to be included in this list it must be read and recommended as notable by an individual reviewer. Then a second evaluator must also agree that the item qualifies for the notables list. The list itself is not a be an end all because there are many good books, etc. that do not come through our channel. It is not meant to be a list of exclusion, merely a listing to be shared with professionals or interested educators, etc. that would like to have some guidelines in choosing materials for school students and curricula. The format of the list is quite simple. The basic entry includes: (line 1)level (elementary, middle, high school), author, (line 2)title, (line 3) copyright, publisher, ISBN #, price, pages, and reviewerÕs code, (line 4) brief summary of book. Linda McNeil, chairperson Information /Media Specialist, retired 101 Glendale Road Exton, PA 19341-1543 lmcneil@brushcolor.com Reviewers: Magna Diaz (Kensington High School) Liz Driscoll (Malvern Prep School) Ilene Flexner (Strawberry Mansion Middle/High School) Tina Goldstein (Audrenrid High School) Margery Hall (Ludington Library) Donna Kozlowski (Gratz High School) Linda McNeil (Chester County Intermediate Unit) Susan Rodgers (Chestnut Hill Academy) Joan Rosen (Cheltenham High School) Jane Schofer (Akiba Hebrew Academy) List is computerized and maintained by: Ms. Marika Chalupa Books of Note 1997/1998 MS Adler, C.S. More Than a Horse LD/LM Clarion/HM 1997 188p 14.95 0-395-79769-1 This is a warmly written story about a young girl who learns the value of patience and thinking before she acts. Leeann becomes involved with some handicapped children and experiences the exhilaration of helping needy children. MS/HS Alcott, Louisa May The Inheritance MD/LM Dutton 1997 187p 18.00 0-395-79769-1 This was Louisa May AlcottÕs first novel written in 1849 when she was seventeen. The editors of Myerson and Shealy found this treasure when they were researching her work. The story is a beautiful romance with all the elements of intrigue, villians, wicked girls, and surprise. MS Alexander, Lloyd The Iron Ring JS/JR Dutton 1997 283p 16.99 0-525-45597-3 King Tamar is tricked into gambling away his kingdom and his life, which he must deliver to Jaya in faraway Mahapura. The journey, through good and evil, makes the tale, which, though serious in theme, is lightened by Alexander's usual humor and given an exotic cast by its Indian setting. HS Angelou, Maya Even the Stars Look Lonesome IF/DK Random 1997 145p. 18.00 0-375-50031-6 Maya writes in her usual prolific style, sharing with us her wisdom on African-American as well as universal themes. MS/HS Bartholomew, J. Random House Complete World Atlas, 2ed. LM/IF Random 1997 80p 15.95 0-679-77712-1 This is a very nicely formatted atlas that will benefit most young readers and support them in their research. MS Bentley,Judith ÒDear FriendÓ Thomas Garrett and William Still: Collaborators on the Underground Railroad SR/JS Dutton 1997 119p 15.99 0-525-65156 Letters from Thomas Garrett, staunch Delaware abolitionist and white Quaker, to William Still, free black Philadelphian, along with fascinating facts about their lives, careers, and the times in which they lived, emphasize the courage and determination of the abolitionists pursuing an end to slavery in pre-Civil War America. MS/HS Bernstein, Jeremy Albert Einstein MD/ED Oxford U. Press 1996 189p 20.00 0-19509275-9 This book covers EinsteinÕs life and his theories. The authorÕs style of writing does catch the readers interest and it is to his credit that he tries to simplify some of EinsteinÕ s work. There are scientific items highlighted and explained: ex. Pythagorean Theorem. MS/HS/+ Botkin, Gleb Lost Tales MD/LM Random 1996 188p 35.00 679-45142 This picture book is a true collectorÕs item. These stories were written for the children of the last Russian Tsar, Nicolas, by the attending physicianÕs son as a way to entertain the TsarÕs children during their captivity at the time of the Russian Revolution. Take note of the animal stories and the details on the uniforms. HS Bruchac, Joseph Bowman's Store MD/JR Dial 1977 331p. 17.99 0803719973 A biography of the author, revealing much about the Native American grandfather who raised him. HS Brumberg, Joan Body Project DK/LM Random 1997 267p 25.00 0-679-40297 A unique point of view about American girls today and the societal and commercial forces brought to bear on their self-image . Provocative and thoughtful, the author's call for a return to the days of "girl advocacy" will give all of us; educators, parents and women, something to think about. MS/HS/+ Bulanda, Susan Ready! The Training of the Search and Rescue Dog LM/DK Doral Pub 1994 170 p 26.50 0-944875-41-6 This book on training seach and rescue dogs answers many questions about how the dog learns and about the methods needed to train animals eager to be effective in times of disaster . MS/HS Camp, Carole Ann Sally Ride JR/SR Enslow 1997 104p 18.95 0-89490-829-4 A biography of AmericaÕs first woman in space, revealing her many accomplishments beyond that historic flight. HS Carroll, Rebecca Sugar in the Raw IF/DK Random 1997 144p 12.00 0-517-88497-6 African-American female teens of varying ages and backgrounds, share their feelings, hopes, experiences and fears in this inspirational narrative. UE/MS Cerullo, Mary The Octopus SR/DK Dutton 1997 58p 16.99 0-525-65199-3 This is a fascinating description of the habits, habitats, anatomy, physiology, and surprising intelligence of various species of octopus, illustrated with glorious full-color photographs. MS/HS Colbert, David Eyewitness to America: 500 Years of America in the words of those who saw it happen. ED/LM Random 1997 565p 30.00 0679442243 Three hundred eyewitness accounts of dramatic and humorous events from the past 500 years of American history. MS/HS Conlon-McKenna, Marita Fields of Home LM/MD/ED Holiday House 1996 189p 15.95 0-8234-1295-4 This is the third book of the OÕDriscoll sisters and their brother and the different paths their lives take after the Potato Famine. It is an exceptional book of life in Ireland and in the United States at the end of the nineteenth century. MS/HS Cooper, Michael L. Hell Fighters JR/DK Lodestar/Dutton 1997 72p 16.99 0-525-675345 How a voluntary regiment of black Americans distinguished themselves as part of the French fighting forces in World War I. UE/MS Couper, Heather Big Bang JS/LM DK 1997 45p 16.95 0-7894-1484-8 Gorgeous full color illustrations accompany clear and brief explanations of the big bang, the creation of matter, the birth of the Milky Way and many other topics, each on its own double page spread. MS Creech, Sharon Chasing Redbird JS/SR Harper Collins 1997 261p 14.95 0-06-026987-1 Thirteen-year old Zinnia, worrying about the death of her cousin Rose some years ago, and now the death of her beloved Aunt Jesse, decides to clear a mysterious trail that she has discovered, beginning near her home. MS/HS Deuker, Carl Painting the Black SR/ED Houghton Mifflin 1997 248p 14.95 0-395-82848-1 This author knows how to appeal to teen-age readers, this time combining detailed football and baseball action with some thought-provoking questions about the price of success and the need to win at any cost. MS Dhanjal, Beryl What Do We Know About Sikhism JS/LM Peter Bedrick 1997 40p 18.95 0-87226-387-8 Combines a brief overview of the Sikh religion and its history, beliefs and customs packaged in a colorful, artistic format with an exotic appeal. MS/HS Dickens, Charles A Christmas Carol (adapted by Shona McKellar) ED/LM DK 1997 64p 14.95 0-7894-2070-8 This well written Eyewitness Classic series book exemplifies beautiful illustrations and nice formatting. The selection of topics and illustrations vary to capture the interest of young readers. In creating a format that intersperses text with visuals, the series has created a nonthreatening approach for young readers. MS/HS Dolan, Edward F. Our Poisoned Waters SR/MD Dutton 1997 122p 14.99 0-525-65220-5 This frightening book about the EarthÕs water reads like a science fiction book except that all of it is true: our water is being polluted as we speak. What we do today to preserve water may save us tomorrow. MS/HS Duncan, Lois Gallows Hill MS/TG Delacorte 1997 229p 15.95 0-385-32331-X Reincarnation, a crystal ball and spooky happenings create a crescendo in this book that builds to a satifying conclusion. MS/HS Dunlap, Eileen The Ghost by the Sea SR/MD Holiday House 1996 150p 15.95 0-8234-1264-4 John and Robin explore their grandmotherÕs haunted house and try to discover why and how their ancestor little Milly died. What they do not realize is that their discoveries awaken the ghost and soon wreak havoc in the house. MS Durbin, William Broken Blade ED/LM Delacorte 1997 163p 14.95 0-385-32224-0 A young manÕs first experience as a voyageur during the 1800Õs. UE/MS Fleischman, Paul Seedfolks JS/SR Harper Collins 1997 69p 13.95 0-06-027471-9 The story of a community garden, from trash-filled empty lot to flourishing neighborhood center, is told in 12 brief chapters by 12 of the neighbors who took part in growing and learning from the garden. As varied as urban America in age, origin, nationality and race, the neighbors find a common bond in the joy of making things grow - their relationships with each other as much as the plants in the garden. MS/HS Fogle, Bruce Encyclopedia of the Cat DK/LM DK 1997 240p 34.95 0-7894-1970-X A purrfectly stunning book covering every conceivable topic related to housecats. Students and adults alike will love the cutaway illustrations of cat anatomy and the descriptions of various breeds. MS Fox, Paula Radiance Descending SR/LM DK 1997 101p 14.95 0-7894-2467-3 Ten year old Paul has never come to terms with his seven year old brotherÕs Downs Syndrome, until he is forced to watch Jacob interacting with others in his wider world and reconsiders the negative attitude he has stubbornly clung to almost since JacobÕs birth. MS/HS Gallo, Donald No Easy Answers TG/MD Delacorte 1997 323p 16.95 0-385-32290-9 Centered on the moral dilemmas involving teen-agers, these 16 engrossing and varied stories by well-known writers such as M.E. Kerr, Walter Dean Myers, and Ron Koertge, were written especially for this volume. MS/HS Giblin, James Cross Charles Lindbergh JS/JR Clarion 1997 212p 20.00 0-395-63389-3 The life of a fascinating and controversial man is presented with verve and balance, including his revolutionary work in aviation, the almost inhuman treatment of him and his wife by the press, the dreadful kidnapping of his first born son, and his strange liason with the Nazis before WWII. UE/MS Giles, Gail Breath of the Dragon IF/MD Clarion/HM 1 997 103p 14.95 0-395-76486-9 MalilaÕs mother becomes a widow when her husband dies in disgrace and the family become outcast. The mother escapes to America leaving young Malila in the care of her grandmother from whom she learns about art, her country, and traditions of Thailand. MS/HS Goodnough, David Pablo Casals MD/DK Enslow 1997 128p 18.95 0-89490-889-8 Pablo Casals was a gifted musician. At six he had already composed music for his church, and by twelve he played the cello which became his trade mark. He lived to be 96. This book tells his story. MS/HS Goodnough, David Placido Domingo MD/DK Enslow 1997 104p 18.95 0-89490-892-8 Placido Domingo is one of the greatest living tenors. This biography will be an intellectual field day for opera fans detailing his trials and triumphs including marriage at the age of sixteen. MS/HS Gorrell, Gena K. North Star to Freedom LM/SR/JR Delacorte 1996/97 168p 17.95 0-385-32319-0 A retelling of the story of the Underground Railroad and the history surrounding it. MS Gravett, Christopher World of the Medieval Knight SR/LM Peter Bedrick 1997 64p 19.95 0-87226-277-4 Outstanding color diagrams and attractive and unusual book design contribute greatly to this informative overview of the origins, training, housing, armoring, education and daily pastimes of the medieval knight, from early times to the decline of knighthood in the 16th century. MS/HS Husain, Sharukh What Do We Know About Islam? MD/LM Peter Bedrick 1997 40p 18.95 0-87226-388-6 This skinny oversized book is packed with information on Islam including illustrations, photographs and charts, a glossary and index. MS/HS Kendall, Martha Susan B. Anthony JR/MD Enslow 1997 128p 18.95 0-89490-780-8 The story of a remarkable woman who fought for womenÕs rights, foremost among these the right to vote. MS/HS Klause, Annette Blood and Chocolate SR/LM Delacorte 1997 264p 16.95 0-385-32305-0 Surprising, compelling, sensual and utterly captivating, this novel about a modern-day pack of werewolves living in the Maryland suburbs features Vivian, a teenage pack member who has foolishly fallen in love with a human boy. HS Krakauer, Jon Into Thin Air JS/DK Random 1997 293p 24.95 679-45752 An amazing, close-up view of a dangerous, and ultimately fatal expedition to climb the world's tallest mountain. MS/HS Lane, Dakota Johnny Voodoo MD/JS Delacorte 1996 199p 15.95 0-385-32230-5 A young girl transplanted from New York to Louisiana, Deirdre has trouble making friends and adjusting in school, but everything starts to get better when she meets Johnny Voodoo. This story deals with grief, love, and family problems. MS Levine, Gail Carson Ella Enchanted LM/JR Harper Collins 1997 232p 15.97 0-06-027510-3 This is the story of a young girl, Ella of Frell, who had a fairy godmother who gave her a gift that she didnÕt appreciate, a curse upon her that said that she would have to obey any direct order given to her by anyone. The story of how Ella tries to break the curse is both funny and intriguing. MS Lewington, Anna Mexico: A Study of an Economically Developing Country LM/ED Raintree/SV 1996 48p 16.98 0-8172-4528-6 This book lets us see Mexico as a land of contrasts. The text is crisply written and fully illustrated, including several lists: a glossary, bibliography, and index make this a ready reference tool. This is one book in a series of 12. MS/HS Lewis, Chris Using the Internet: 101 Essential tips JS/LM DK 1997 72p 6.95 0-7894-146-7 Great tips for using the internet include information on getting connected, using the World Wide Web, newsgroups and more. This tiny paperback will appeal to adolescents. MS Lye, Keith Equatorial Climates (The WorldÕs Climates series) IF/ED/LM Raintree/SV 1997 48p 16.98 0-8172-4826-9 This is an informative text on climate, with visual appeal for young readers. Diversified layout with a good balance between text and full-color illustrations groups concepts together. MS/HS MacDonald, Fiona The Roman Colosseum JR/LM Peter Bedrick 1997 48p 18.95 0-87226-275-8 Another in the excellent series of large format books with colored illustrations that depict life in ancient civilizations. HS Marrin, Albert Commander in Chief Abraham Lincoln JR/LM Dutton/Penguin 1997 246p. 25.00 0-525-45822-0 A interesting look at LincolnÕs relationship to his generals and to the military strategy of the Union during the Civil War. HS Marsden, John The Dead of Night JR/LM Houghton Mifflin 1997 278p 16.00 0-395-83734-0 In this sequel to Tomorrow, When the War Began, Ellie, the storyteller, and her small band of friends struggle to survive in the Australian bush while their country is taken over by an unnamed, cruel foreign power. MS/HS Mason, Paul ed. Atlas of Threatened Cultures IF/LM Raintree/SV 1997 96p 22.98 0-8172-4755-6 This easy to use, beautifully illustrated combination of maps plus text, has many cross-curricular, as well as multi-cultural uses. MS/HS Mazer, Harry Twelve Shots IF/TG Delacorte 1997 228p. 21.95 0-8172-4755-6 This exceptional book is comprised of twelve compelling, exciting stories centered around the varied issues surrounding guns. HS McDonald, Joyce Swallowing stones JR/LM Delacorte 1997 245p 15.95 0-385-32309-3 Michael receives a rifle for his birthday and with careless handling, accidently kills the father of a classmate. The suffering of each student is poignantly revealed. MS Mooney, Bel Voices of Silence SR/MD Delacorte 1997 180p 14.95 0-385-32326-3 Flora Popescu is turning thirteen but has little to look forward to in communist Romania, until the 1989 Revolution comes and turns her world upside down. This is an eye-opening look at a distant place and a turbulent time, as well as a compelling tale of one girl growing up. MS Morpurgo, Michael The Butterfly Lion LM/SR Viking 1996 90 p 14.99 0-670-87461-2 This tale of a perfect friendship between a white lion and a young boy, emphasizes the importance of a promise. The two are separated when BertieÕs father sells this special pet for his tuition at an English boarding school, but the relationship is far from over. MS Napoli, Donna Jo Stones in Water ED/JS Dutton 1997 209p. 15.99 0-525-458425 This story centers around two Italian boys struggling to survive German work camps during WWII. MS/HS National Geographic Society Restless Earth: Disasters of Nature SR/LM Random 1997 288p 35.00 07922-7026-6 This is a timely, current, attractive, and informative look at some of the ÒhottestÓ topics of the 90Õs - weather and storms, volcanoes and earthquakes, and global warming - with a detailed text best for older readers, but pages of photographs of typical National Geographic quality that will interest browsers of all ages. HS Neft, Naomi Where Women Stand DK/MD Random 1997 534p. 20.00 0-679-78015-7 Organized both by topic, and by country, this useful book provides statistics on women throughout the world, and pulls together material into one volume that would have to be gathered from many different sources. MS/HS Nix, Garth Shade's Children JS/JR Harper Collins 1997 310p 15.97 0-06-027324-0 Only children are left in this post-Change world and the four children who are fighting the Overlords in this exciting fantasy are very human and very frightened. UE/MS O'Leary, Patsy Baker With Wings as Eagles ED/LM Houghton MIfflin 1997 262p 15.00 0395705576 Set in North Carolina in the late Ô30Õs, this story is written with expressions of the time and place. The struggle of racism and hatred are poignantly portrayed. MS Paulsen, Gary Sarny: A Life Remembered LM/SR Delacorte 1997 180p 15.95 0-385-32195-3 This sequel book to Nightjohn continues the tale of Sarny, explaining to the readers what happened after Sarny learned to read and following her through her life until her last days in 1930. MS Paulsen, Gary Tucket's Ride LM/ED Delacorte 1997 86p 15.95 0-385-32199-6 This is the third book of a series. Francis Tucket and two children (Lottie & Billy) whom he befriended on the trail head West to catch FrancisÕ parents. Winter interrupts their westward trip making the trio head to warmer climates, right into the middle of the war between Mexico and the United States. MS Pevsner, Stella Sing for your Father, Su Phan SR/LM Clarion 1997 107p 14.00 0-395-82267-X As a girl growing up in North Vietnam during the war with the South and their American allies, Su Phan learns to take nothing for granted - not even food, shelter, or safety from her own government. This fictionalized version of the true experiences of a recent American immigrant gives readers a fascinating look at the other side of a well known conflict. MS Pfeffer, Susan Beth Justice for Emily LM/SR Delacorte 1997 137p 14.95 0-385-32259-3 This book helps the reader to realize that there is Òhope even in the face of great unhappiness, and demonstrates that standing up for the truth gives dignity to everyone, regardless of social position.Ó It will appeal to readers who like to read books that deal with teenage concerns. MS/HS Philip, Neil In A Sacred Manner I Live JR/LM Clarion 1997 93p 20.00 0-395-84981-0 A collection of excerpts, whole speeches, and photographs of Native Americans, most of them from the 19th century, indicating the pain caused by treatment of Indians by the whites. MS/HS Pullman, Philip Subtle Knife JS/SR Random 1997 326p 20.00 0679-87925-0 This sequel to The Golden Compass presents Lyra, the feisty heroine of the first novel, with a whole, new note of complexity by bringing in characters from our world, including a boy her age who is searching for his father. MS/HS Qualey, Marsha Thin Ice ED/TG Delacorte 1997 261p 14.95 0-385-32298-4 Even though the authorities are convinced he is dead. Arden believes that her brother has faked a deadly accident. Part psychological drama and part mystery, this novel is hard to put down until one gets the answers. MS/HS Rafkin, Louis Tiger's Eye, the Bird's Fist MD/LM Little Brown 1997 131p 12.95 0-316-73464-0 A must read for all who are contemplating learning martial arts for self defense. The legends, biographies, illustrations, wisdom, and stories in this book teach that this art is training in peace tactics, and that is the goal to strive for. UE/MS/HS Robertshaw, Andrew A Soldier's Life ED/JS Lodestar/Dutton 1997 48p 16.99 0525675507 This visual history of a soldierÕs life from the Romans to the soldiers of WWII is terrific. Background information is given on each soldier to explain who he is and why he fights. Specific details of dress, rations, weapons and military strategy are illustrated . MS Sachs, Marilyn Another Day JS/TG Dutton 1997 180p 15.99 0-525-45787-9 14 year-old Olivia goes from being a happy, well-adjusted teenager to an adolescent filled with anger when her mother suddenly leaves her father. MS Savage, Candace World of the Wolf SR/LM Random 1996 114p 27.50 0-87156-8994-3 This intimate perspective on the wolf features incredible photography and sophisticated, informative text in an oversized book that will be useful for leisure reading and for research by good readers in middle or high school. MS/HS Severance, John Gandhi: Great Soul SR/JR Clarion/Houghton Mifflin 1997 143p 15.95 0-395-77179-X Not the usual formula biography, this book shows how an ordinary man Òmade his life a lesson for all ages to comeÓ, by looking at the life of Mahatma Gandhi, the forces that made him and the effect he had on India. MS/HS Spinelli, Jerry Wringer TG/SR Harper Collins 1997 228p 14.75 0-06-024913-7 Palmer has gut-wrenching thoughts about his role in next yearÕs annual pigeon shoot where he will have to wring pigeonsÕ necks after they are wounded. This tale for all ages shows how one boy deals with violence, friendship and peer pressure. MS/HS Stein, R. Conrad Transcontinental Railroad in American History JR/SR/LM Enslow 1 997 128p 18.95 0-89490-882-0 Fascinating story of the competition between the two companies that built the railroad, one starting from the west and the other from the east. HS Stwertka, Albert A Guide to the Elements DK/LM Oxford U. Press 1996 238p 35.00 0-19-508083-1 An attractive double page spread for each element. Features readable text and includes a good review of the function of the periodic table. An excellent reference for any secondary library HS Taulbert, Clifton Eight Habits of the Heart IF/DK Viking/ Penguin 1997 123p 16.95 0-670-87545-7 A great resource for curriculum-based discussions of values, with group exercises to "prompt practice and reflection", this is a call to the return of the values that have historically strengthened African American communities. The values are universal and applicable to any community. MS Thomsen, Peggy The Nine-Ton Cat: Behind the Scenes at an Art Museum MD/LM Houghton Mifflin 1997 96p 21.95 0-395-82655-1 Did you ever wonder what goes on in an art museum after hours? This book will be an excellent way to introduce art museums to children and adults before the planned trip to the museum. Using this book as an introduction to the workings of an art museum will bring into focus all the details that go into presenting an exhibit. MS Tolan, Stephanie Welcome to the Ark SR/MD Morrow 1996 250p 15.00 0-688-13724-5 Four extremely disturbed and extremely gifted children, touched by violence and pain, are brought togrther in an experimental group home setting by a pair of therapists who want to try to work with and help them. This is a novel look at the problems of violence in our society and the world at large, and a unique solution that should have readers longing to see it really happen. MS Vivelo, Jackie Chills in the Night MD/ED DK 1997 123p 14.95 0-7894-2463-0 This wonderfully chilling group of tales for the young and old is a book to break the ice and share with others. Fun to read, many of these stories have strange situations that defy explanations. MS Wallace, Rich Shots on Goal SR/ED Random 1997 148p 17.00 0679886702 Set in the same town as this authorÕs earlier novel Wrestling Sturbridge, fast and furious soccer action leaves room for some quiet consideration of friendship, loyalty, and morality. Teens will pick this up for the sports action but find themselves with more to think about when it is over. An exciting and fast-moving story with deeper issues to consider beyond sports. MS Watts, E. Melanie Black Rhinos IF/DK Raintree/SV 1997 64p 17.98 0-81-72-4572-3 This is a unique, cross-curricular text about the black rhinoceros. It is informative well illustrated and a unique book. MS/HS Willson, Quentin Classic American Cars JS/DK Dk 1997 192p 29.95 0-7894-2083-X Fabulous color photos of favorite, old, classic automobiles decorate the pages of this brief history of automobiles in the U.S. with a special look at some of the best. MS/HS Winslow, Vicki Follow the Leader IF/LM Bantam Books 1997 215p. 14.95 0-385-32285-2 This is a humanistic portrayal of friendship, growing up and race relations in North Carolina during a time of school desegregation in the 1970Õs. MS Wisler, C.Clifton Mustang Flats ED/LM Dutton 1997 116p. 14.99 0-525675442 Wisler poignantly portrays the splintering and healing that families have to endure after the American Civil War. MS/HS Wisler, E. Clifton The Drummer boy of Vicksburg ED/LM Lodestar/Dutton 1997 133p 15.99 0-52567537X Based on an actual family of drummers and fife players during the American Civil War. this follows their lives leading up to the battle at Vicksburg. MS Wood, Frances Becoming Rosemary SR/ED Delacorte 1997 247p 14.95 0-385-32248-8 Turning 12 in a small North Carolina farming village in 1790, Rosemary is learning how most people fear and even hate anything that seems different, but also how being different, like her mother, a healer, and her sister, who some would call a witch, doesnÕt have to be bad. This is a simply written look at life in the young United States from a very unusual point of view. MS/HS Woodson, Jacqueline House you Pass on the Way SR/ED Delacorte 1997 99p 14.95 0-385-32189-9 ItÕs hard enough being the child of a white mother and a black father in a mostly black Southern town, but questions about sexual identity add to StaggerleeÕs (a.k.a. EvangelineÕs) confusion. A summer visit from a long lost cousin doesnÕt answer her questions but does help her begin to find the strength to ask them, in this brief and sensitive look at growing up different. HS Yount, Lisa Antoine Lavoisier DK/IF Enslow 1997 128P 18.95 0-89490-785-9 Fortunately science had Lavoisier for 51 years before the French Revolution's guillotine claimed him. A clear portrayal of the genius behind the accomplishments. Recommended for elementary, junior high and secondary hi-lo collections. HS Zitkala-Sa The Flight of the Redbird JS/ED Dial Books 1997 186p 15.99 0-8037-1438-6 Zitkala-SaÕs writings outline her life and work so that readers can empathize with her feelings and understand her actions. Black and white photos show the reservations, boarding schools, Zitkala-Sa in both American and Native American dress and a few other individuals important in her life. MS/HS Series: African American Biographies JR/JS Enslow 1997 128p 18.95 Written apparently for middle school students, this series presents the lives of notable Blacks: Attractively and logically arranged, they offer a sense of the personality as well as a recounting of events accomplished. Titles read by this group: Jackie Robinson, Langston Hughes, Barbara Jordan, Jesse Owens, and Coretta Scott King. MS Savage, Stephen Series: Animals by Habitat LM/ED Raintree/SV 1997 32p 14.98 This series of four books looks at animals in their natural habitat. It provides a beautiful color photgraph and habitat map for each animal. The series also looks at the way the animals have adapted to survive both in relationship to their surroundings and their interaction with humans. UE/MS Series: Celebrate the States M. Cavendish/Benchmark 1997 144p 22.95 Each book in this series covers a state, surveying the geography, history, government and economy, people, achievements and landmarks. The text is complemented by color photographs, bibliography and index. UE/MS Fisher, Leonard Colonial Craftsman series ED/LM M.Cavendish/Benchmarkk 1997/1966 47p 14.95 These dynamically illustrated, b/w books depict the lives, times, and occupations of the American colonists. This series also blends the history with the skills required by the various artisans. MS/HS Series: Cultures of the World Marshall Cavendish 1997 128 p 23.95 This series answers a need in high school World Cultures courses. Titles cover geography, government, economy, religion, language, arts, festivals, food and more. However, the series is uneven--some are better than others, and in one, Ukraine, there is a serious error. UE/MS Series: KidÕs Can LM/ED Gareth Stevens 1997 153p 17.95 Given resources and opportunities kids can and will do amazing things. With the help of these three books (Nature, Science, & Wildlife) kids will gain experience, have adventures, and have some fun no matter where they live. MS/HS Series: Native American Biographies DK/LM Enslow 1997 104p 18.95 This series relates biographical information about Native Americans for young readers. The following titles were reviewed by our group and rated excellent: Dennis Banks, Geronimo: Apache Freedom Fighter, Jim Thorpe, Sitting Bull, and Sacagawea: Westward with Lewis and Clark. MS/HS Gardner, Robert Science Project Ideas SR/LM Enslow 1997 96p 17.95 This is a series that many science teachers and interested indivduals will appreciate. The experiments are clearly presented, easy to follow, and easy to modify. All materials needed for the experiments are easily accessible. Experiments are also accompanied by helpful, explanatory black and white drawings. MS/HS Series: U.S. Presidents Enslow 1997 128p 18.95 This presidential series relates biographical information of the individualÕs life (before an