English- Thematic Unit

Thematic Unit Based on Seven Novels

Devon Stolz-200281558 Dr. Barbara McNeil

ELIT 101 December 3rd 2010

INDEX

Index……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….page #1

Rationale…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………page #2

Genre Web………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………page #4

Topic Web……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….page #5

Annotation For Among The Hidden…………………………………………………………………………….pages #6-7

Annotation For The Breadwinner……………………………………………………………………………….pages #8-9

Annotation For City of Ember……..………………………………………………………………………….pages #10-11

Annotation For The Crazy Man………………………………………………………………………….…………pages #12

Annotation For Elijah of Buxton……………………………………………………………………………pages # 13-14

Annotation For My Name is Seepeetza……………………………………………………………………….pages # 15

Annotation For Zlata’s Diary……………………………………………………………………………………….pages # 16

References………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….pages # 17

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Rationale for the Theme I Selected from Reading the Seven Novels

My thematic Unit incorporates the seven novels are: Elijah of Buxton, Zlata’s Diary, City of Ember, The crazy man, The Breadwinner, My name is Seepeetza, Among the hidden.

After carefully examining the seven novels, I picked the theme of Facing Adversity- Overcoming challenges. I picked this theme because it was an obvious has significant connections between all seven books. In every book a character must be strong and face the challenge that arises within the text. The theme of facing adversity and overcoming challenges has significant pedagogical value because every student will face a challenging situation or time in their life, no matter of ethnicity, socio-economic status, or any other factor. Life for young adults is challenging and as teachers we must provide excellent role models that are able to shine through the troubles faced. The relevance of facing adversity is becoming ever more poignant in our school system. We currently live in an age were bullies have the ability to bully other students from their own home. While is this an issue that goes deeper than this reflection will allow, it is very important that students understand that adversity and challenges are a universal issue that everyone must face, and consequently a part of life.

The book Elijah of Buxton would likely appeal to students who are interested in historical fiction. This book fits well in the category of social studies as it can spark discussions based on history, human rights and social justice. The southern twang of the book may also be appealing for young readers who are interested in a challenging read.

On the other hand, the novel City of Ember would be attractive to students who love visual arts because of it’s artistically written style. The descriptions of this dark and lonely city are hauntingly beautiful. The main character Lina is also an artist, who draws a city from her visions. Visual art lessons spring from this novel.

A novel such as Among the Hidden would be useful in drama because the plot lends itself very well to the purposes of contextual drama. Drama teachers are able to take any source and bend it’s constructs to their will for the purposes of exploring the literature to a fuller extent. Because the themes that run through Among the hidden are so well shaped in the world of science fiction there are endless possibilities that drama could explore with Among the hidden

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However, The crazy man would ideal for the art from of dance because of the beauty found within the written words and the themes within the book. A beautiful dance could be created using the emotions from within the book. Powerful dances must employ such emotions as fear, anger and frustration, all emotions found within the book. Also at the end of the novel there is dance involved. This would spark a student who is interested in dance’s attention.

Summary and Conclusion

As a whole I believe that the connecting theme found in all of the seven novels of Facing adversity and overcoming challenges is a holistic and successful theme. Each of these books does fit in with this large all encompassing theme, which fits under the umbrella theme of Social justice. Social justice is important in the classroom because these are issues that must be faced. The pedagogical value of works of literature that deal with social justice is far greater than just average fiction novels.

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Annotations5

Title: Among the Hidden

Author: Margaret Peterson Haddix

Year of publication: September 1998

Genre and/or sub-genre: Science Fiction

Theme: Social Isolation, Dystopian Future, Boy/Girl Relations,

Annotations: Among the hidden is a fast paced, plot driven suspense novel. This is the first novel in Margaret Peterson Haddix’s series “Shadow Children”. Set in a dystopian future- a totalitarian regime enforces a strict two child per family rule. The third children is often cast aside and made to hide in the shadows. These children live a life that is all about remaining unseen. Any reader that opens this chilling novel is bound to enjoy the unique experience that is on every page.

Awards Won:

Top 10--ALA Best Books for Young Adults An ALA Quick Pick for Reluctant Young Adult Readers YALSA Popular Paperbacks for Young Adults Nominee for the Askews Children’s Book Award in Great Britain Bank Street College’s Children’s Book Committee’s "Best Children’s Books of the Year"

list State readers choice awards (voted on by kids): California Young Readers Medal Maud Hart Lovelace Award (Minnesota) Nevada Young Readers' Award Great Stone Face Award (New Hampshire) Nutmeg Children's Book Award (Connecticut) Sunshine State Young Readers' Award (Florida) Pennsylvania Young Reader's Choice Award Young Hoosier Book Award (Indiana) Indian Paintbrush Book Award (Wyoming) Iowa Children's Choice Award

Where Reviewed and a few of the reviewer’s comments: I found reviews for Among the Hidden on the research database “novelist”. The book reviewer Kirkus states:

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“Among the Hidden is chilling and intelligent…. Haddix offers much for discussion, by presenting a world not too different from America right now… These pages will give readers a new appreciation for their own world after a visit to lukes”.

Nationality: This book is written by Margaret Peterson Haddix, who is an American author.

Summary and Conclusion:

Overall, this is a fantastic book that would appeal to young readers due to it’s fast paced style and intense plot. The “Shadow Children” series certainly has a place in any classroom. This book could be used to spark discussion regarding science fiction, dystopian future, and social injustice due to government and leadership.

Title: The Breadwinner

Author: Deborah Ellis

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Year of publication: 2001

Genre and/or sub-genre: Children’s Stories, Historical Fiction

Theme: Girls, Sexism, Repression, Role-Reversal

Annotations: Set in Afghanistan shortly after the Taliban took over leadership, Ellis’s book follows the story of an 11 year old girl named Parvana. Parvana is not allowed to attend schools and is hardly allowed outside, due to the Taliban’s strict regime. After Parvana’s father is jailed Parvana must step up and take responsibility for her family. In this captivating read we experience the sad oppression and heart wrenching story of a young girl- trying to survive in a cruel and unfair world. Parvana’s hardships are difficult to read, but certainly have a place in every classroom library.

Awards Won: · Amelia Bloomer Lists - Middle Grades Fiction: 2002· Hackmatack Children's Choice Book Award (Canada): English Fiction· Red Cedar Book Awards (British Columbia): Fiction· Rocky Mountain Book Award (Alberta)· Surrey Schools' Book of the Year Award (British Columbia)

Where Reviewed and a few of the reviewer’s comments: During my research I found information regarding The breadwinner through the educational database “Novelist”. Novelist compiles many reviews from educational journals. The journal Booklist says :

“The Breadwinner is a potent portrait of life in contemporary Afghanistan, showing that powerful heroines can survive even in the most oppressive and sexist social conditions.”

From my research on novelist there seems to be a consensus that Ellis has missed some of the cultural and religious factors of the social context in which the book is historically set. Booklist also says this about the book:

“Unfortunately, the novel never deals with the religious facets of Afghan life, failing to explain that the Taliban sees itself, essentially, as a religious group. The book lacks the details about this region and culture that would help unfamiliar readers understand that world more clearly”

Nationality: The Breadwinner was written by the Canadian Author Deborah Ellis.


Overall the breadwinner is a strong piece of children’s literature. The themes are empowering and captivating. As a piece of historical fiction Ellis has written a concise and educational novel. As a later elementary – early middle year’s book this novel has significant pedagogical value in every classroom.

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Title: City of Ember

Author: Jeanne DuPrau


Genre and/or sub-genre: Science Fiction

Theme: Courage, Dystopian future, Survival

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Annotations: Jeanne DuPrau’s debut book is set in a bleak dystopian future- The city of Ember burns brightly against a sea of blackness. The two hundred year old city is considered the only beacon on light in the world of darkness, although there are serious issues that the city faces. Between a failing generator and a corrupt mayor- this fast paced, thrilling novel is sure to delight any reader. Can Lina Mayfleet and Doon Harrow save the city of Ember? Is the city of Ember even able to be saved? Students will love and be talking about this book!Awards Won:

· ALA Notable Children's Books: 2004· Beehive Awards (Utah): Children's Fiction Books· Black-Eyed Susan Book Awards (Maryland): Grades 6-9· Garden State Teen Book Awards (New Jersey): Fiction (Grades 6-8)· Great Stone Face Children's Book Award (New Hampshire)· Land of Enchantment Book Award (New Mexico): Young Adult category· Mark Twain Award (Missouri)· Nutmeg Children's Book Award (Connecticut): Intermediate category· Sunshine State Young Reader's Award (Florida): Grades 3-5 (post-1987 winners)· Sunshine State Young Reader's Award (Florida): Grades 6-8 (post-1987 winners)· William Allen White Children's Book Award (Kansas): Sixth-Eighth Grade Winners· YALSA Popular Paperbacks for Young Adults: Change Your World or Live to Regret It (2010)· Young Hoosier Book Award: Intermediate Books

Where Reviewed and a few of the reviewer’s comments: Using the educational literature Database Novelist- I found reviews for City of Ember by such esteemed literature journals as Kirkus, Booklist and Publishers Weekly. The journal kirkus offers some important insight regarding City of Ember:

“Well-paced, this contains a satisfying mystery, …a harrowing journey into the unknown and cryptic messages for readers to decipher. The likable protagonists are not only courageous but also believably flawed by human pride, their weaknesses often complementing each other in interesting ways. The cliffhanger ending will leave readers clamoring for the next installment. (Fiction. 9-13) (Kirkus Reviews, May 15, 2003)”

Nationality: Jeanne DuPrau is an American author, she was born in San Francisco California


City of Ember is a thrilling and fun read. Being that it is a work of fantasy- students would be particularly fascinated by this book. Much is offered on character development, rich themes and worthwhile plot elements. In regards to a social justice theme- I’m not 100% sold that this book belongs, there are elements of questioning authority and repression. But overall I would consider City of Ember to be primarily a fun, fantasy read.

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Title: The Crazy Man

Author: Pamela Porter


Genre and/or sub-genre: Historical Fiction

Theme: Loss, life Changes, Adversity and facing challenges with disabilities

Annotations: When a very young girl is injured in a farm accident she must learn to deal with a variety of different kinds of loss and conflict. Her entire life is shattered in this beautiful poetic piece of historical fiction.

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Awards Won: · Canadian Library Association Book of the Year for Children Award· Geoffrey Bilson Award for Historical Fiction· Golden Oak Award (Ontario)· Governor General's Literary Awards: English-Language Children's Literature (Text)· Hackmatack Children's Choice Book Award (Canada): English Fiction· Red Cedar Book Awards (British Columbia): Fiction· Rocky Mountain Book Award (Alberta)· TD Canadian Children's Literature Award

Where Reviewed and a few of the reviewer’s comments: I read reviews about this novel on the database, novelist. Booklist had these insightful insights.

“Subtle in its themes and organization, this book is pure pleasure, offering lessons about love, loyalty, and loss.–Julie Webb, Shelby County High School, Shelbyville, KY --Julie Webb (Reviewed December 1, 2005) (School Library Journal, vol 51, issue 12, p152)”

Nationality: Pamela Porter is a Canadian author.


Overall, this is a beautiful poetic novel that has very serious themes woven in the luxurious text. The crazy man is my favorite novel that we have covered this semester, and I do look forward to using it in my classroom. I feel strongly that this is a work that is important to all Saskatchewan communities, and being someone who grew up on a farm, there are similarities that even I can draw from this text. Overall The Crazy man is a very successful text.

Title: Elijah of Buxton

Author: Christopher Paul Curtis


Genre and/or sub-genre: Historical Fiction

Theme: Freedoms

Awards Won:

· ALA Notable Children's Books - Older Readers Category: 2008· Booklist Editors' Choice - Books for Youth - Older Readers Category: 2007· Canadian Library Association Book of the Year for Children Award· Coretta Scott King Award (Authors)

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· Geoffrey Bilson Award for Historical Fiction· Parents' Choice Awards - Fiction: 2007· School Library Journal Best Books: 2007· Scott O'Dell Historical Fiction Award· TD Canadian Children's Literature Award

Where Reviewed and a few of the reviewer’s comments: Using the Database novelist I found this excellent and complete review of Elijah of Buxton

“School Library Journal:Eleven-year-old Elijah Freeman has two claims to fame: he was the first free black to have been born in Buxton, an actual settlement in Canada established in 1849 by the abolitionist Reverend William King; and, during his infancy, he threw up all over the visiting Frederick Douglass. Elijah is an engaging protagonist, and whether he is completing his chores or lamenting his Latin studies or experiencing his first traveling carnival, his descriptions are full of charm and wonder. Although his colloquial language may prove challenging for some readers, it brings an authenticity and richness to the story that is well worth the extra effort that it might require. While some of the neighbors believe Elijah to be rather simple, and even his mother tends to overprotect her "fra-gile" boy, his true character shines out when a disaster occurs in the close community. Elijah's neighbor, Mr. Leroy, has been saving money for years to buy freedom for his wife and children who are still in the U.S. When this money is stolen, Elijah blames himself for inadvertently helping the thief and, risking capture by slave catchers, crosses the border into Detroit to get it back. His guileless recounting of the people he meets and the horrors he sees will allow readers to understand the dangers of the Underground Railroad without being overwhelmed by them. Elijah's decisions along the way are not easy ones, but ultimately lead to a satisfying conclusion. Curtis's talent for dealing with painful periods of history with grace and sensitivity is as strong as ever.—Kim Dare, Fairfax County Public Schools, VA --Kim Dare (Reviewed October 1, 2007) (School Library Journal, vol 53, issue 10, p146) “

Nationality: Christopher Paul Curtis is an esteemed American author.


Overall Elijah of Buxton is a challenging book, due to it’s difficult language. But once students are able to break through the southern twang that Christopher Paul Curtis uses the novel is entirely enjoyable and a fun read.

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Title: My name is Seepeetza

Author: Shirley Sterling


Genre and/or sub-genre: Diary Novels, Memoire

Theme: Injustice faced due to race

Annotations: A harrowing work of historical fiction that depicts life in a residential school in British Columbia. A poignant and terrific read

Awards Won:

BC Book Prizes: Sheila A. Egoff Children's Literature Prize

Where Reviewed and a few of the reviewer’s comments: This review was found on novelist

“The drawback of the journal format is that the vignettes are sometimes static, repetitive, and disjointed. The great advantage is the immediacy of the child's voice and viewpoint. We feel her bewilderment and fear, her helplessness,

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and, above all, her longing for home. Few books dramatize this experience for young readers. Without preaching or rhetoric, the cruelty is laid bare. ((Reviewed March 1, 1997)) -- Hazel Rochman”

Nationality: Shirley Sterling is a Canadian author.


Overall I found this book to be very interesting. We live in a period of time where residential schools are not discussed with young children. Even I was unsure of the full horrors of the residential school experience until recently. My name is seepeetza is a successful way of brining this topic into the classroom.

Title: Zlata’s Diary

Author: Zlata Filipovic


Genre and/or sub-genre: Memoire, Diary

Theme: War, and the effects of war

Where Reviewed and a few of the reviewer’s comments: Using the review tool on Amazon.com I found this helpful review by school library journal

“YA-From September 1991 through October 1993, young Zlata Filipovic kept a diary. When she began it, she was 11 years old, concerned mostly with friends, school, piano lessons, MTV, and Madonna. As the diary ends, she has become used to constant bombing and snipers; severe shortages of food, water, and gas; and the end of a privileged adolescence in her native Sarajevo. Zlata has been described as the new Anne Frank. While the circumstances are somewhat similar, and Zlata is intelligent and observant, this diary lacks the compelling style and mature preceptions that gave Anne Frank's account such universality. The entire situation in the former Yugoslavia, however, is of such currency and concern that any first-person account, especially one such as this that speaks so directly to adolescents, is important and necessary. While not great literature, the narrative provides a vivid description of the ravages of war and its effect upon one young woman, and, as such, is valuable for today's YAs.Susan H. Woodcock, King's Park Library, Burke, VACopyright 1994 Reed Business Information, In”

Nationality: Zlata Filipovic is a writer from Yugoslavia

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Overall Zlata’s diary is an important book that belongs in classrooms. It is very important that students understand history and the injustices faced. The war in Sarajevo is seldomly talked about in young adult literature, thus making zlata’s diary an even more important piece of literature.

References

Curtis, C. P. (2007). Elijah of Buxton . New York: Scholastic Press.

DuPrau, J. (2003). The city of Ember . New York: Random House.

Ellis, D. (2001). The breadwinner . Toronto: Douglas & McIntyre ;.

Filipović, Z. (1994). Zlata's diary: a child's life in Sarajevo. New York: Viking.

Gangi, J. M. (2004). Encountering children's literature: an arts approach. Boston: Pearson.

Haddix, M. P. (1998). Among the hidden . New York: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers.

Porter, P. P. (2005). The crazy man . Toronto: Groundwood Books.

Sterling, S. (1992). My name is Seepeetza . Vancouver: Douglas & McIntyre.

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Documents

English- Thematic Unit