Reading Log #3 Title: The Librarian Who Measured the Earth Author: Kathryn Lasky Genre: Biography Format:

picture book Awards: Boston Globe/Horn Book Award, 1981

Society of School Librarians International Book Awards Honor 1995
American Library Association Notable Children's Book (2006) Flora Stieglitz Straus Award (2005) Notable Social Studies Trade Books (2006)

Illustrator: Kevin Hawkes

Reflection: This is an interesting book about the life of a man who lived so long ago that there are very few resources available to tell his story. In the introduction, Lasky states that there were no journals, diaries, birth records, or any other primary sources from which to gain information. The details of his day-to-day living are more fiction and speculation that fact. However, the information is based upon what could have actually happened in the life of an intelligent male child living in 400 B.C. What is known about Erotosthenes is known from his work as a librarian and scientist in Ancient Greece. Lasky does an excellent job of creating this biography in a way that is appealing to young readers. It is interesting, entertaining, and descriptive. She communicates her information clearly and accurately, while doing so in the way of a storyteller. When names and terminology are used that would be unfamiliar to the reader, she included pronunciation and explanation within the text without interrupting the flow of the story. Illustrations:

Photographs would not be appropriate for this book. There would be no photographs of this time period. Any surviving pieces of art from 400 B.C. would not appeal to the audience for which this book is intended. Hawkes, the illustrator, uses a combination of both detailed and very simple designs to create the setting. His technique of light colors against dark backgrounds draws the readers attention to specific objects within the pictures. Also in keeping with the theme of Greek architecture, he used lots of lines. They create interesting angles, which is also in keeping with the storyline of using angles and shadows to determine measurements.

Book 2: Title: Odd Boy Out: Young Albert Einstein Author: Don Brown Genre: Biography Format: picture book Awards: 2005 ALA Notable Book for Children
2005 Notable Children's Trade Book in the Field of Social Studies 2005 Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books -- Blue Ribbon Winner 2004 New York Public Library, 100 Titles for Reading and Sharing

Reflection: This is an informative and simplistic view of the life of Albert Einstein. Based on more lengthy biographies, this version would have much more appeal to children than chapters of small print. The story is told mostly through pictures, with little text. However, the text is adequate to tell the story. Upon reading, one feels an understanding and sympathy for Albert Einstein as a child. One can identify and empathize with his

lack of social acceptance and dislike of boring classrooms and subjects that are not interesting. These are concepts with which many students can relate. Throughout the story, quotations are used for conversation. I am doubtful as the authenticity. The author does not identify any part of the book being based on personal judgment or interpretation. The illustrations appear to be sketches filed in with watercolors. The colors are very muted, giving the appearance of something old from a historical time period. They are also very cartoonish in nature. The cartoon aspect of the illustrations creates interest for the reader. Two illustrations stand out and do not follow the typical style of the others. Both of these represent the depths of Einsteins thoughts and a glimpse into his brain. As Einstein is not a typical child with typical thoughts and reactions, this is most appropriate. One feels as though they are catching a glimpse of the unknown something as unfathomable as infinity. One comes away feeling with a feeling of who and what Albert Einstein was as a person with a little understanding of what he accomplished. As Einstein seemed to care more about the process of learning and discovery than fame and glory, this too is appropriate.

Book 3: Title: Hank Aaron: Brave in Every Way Author: Peter Golenbock Genre: Biography Format: picture book Awards: 2003-2004 Childrens Gallery Award Illustrator: Paul Lee

Reflection: This is an enjoyable story of Hank Aaron. One learns of his life; both childhood and career. The sentence structure is short, making it easier for children to understand the story line. However, even though the author uses shorter sentences, there is still a pleasant flow. The characters, setting, and plot are clearly laid out. Difficult periods in history such as the Great Depression and Civil Rights are referenced, but not dwelt on, keeping the focus on Hank Aaron and his life. The hopes and dreams of this young boy are easily felt throughout the story. This is evidenced by his hope that playing ball on Sunday, the Lords Day of rest, will be approved up by his mother. His love and desire for her approval is easy to see. Although the facts seem to be accurate, there is no bibliography or Authors Note included. This would have been helpful to authenticate the information disclosed. The illustrations are colorful, bold, and captivating. Lee uses a variety of techniques within his paintings. Some focus on the activity more than the characters, such as his father building the house. Hank is located in the lower left-hand corner wile the picture is primary of wooden beams and a nail being driven in. In the illustrations showing Hanks role models, Jackie Robinson and Babe Ruth, the men are larger than life. This is probably the way they seemed to Hank as a young boy. Overall, this is a very enjoyable childrens book.

Book 4: Title: Whats the Big Idea Ben Franklin? Author: Jean Fritz Illustrator: Margot Tomes

Genre: Biography Format: Picture book Awards: 1976 New York Times Outstanding Book of the Year Reflection: What a fun way to learn about Benjamin Franklin! Reading this story is so much more interesting that a page or two in a Social Studies text book. Fritz biography of Benjamin Franklin reads like a story. Its interesting, engaging, even surprising at times. Is everything that happened factual? There are no fabricated conversations or imaginings of what might have happened. This is also recent enough history of a prominent American History figure. Therefore, reliable sources are available to draw from. The Authors Notes in the back of the book lend evidence and additional background information to many events within the story. It is a well-written and interesting piece of literature. The illustrations do not have a great impact on the book itself. There are a few sketches on each page, some in color, which sometimes adds to the storyline. However, they are not the types of illustrations that will attract a reader on their own merit. They do help give the reader a little more insight, but nothing substantial. The best illustration is probably the one on the front cover of the book. Overall, the illustrations were not impressive and added very little to the book.

Book 5: Title: Why dont you get a horse, SAM ADAMS? Author: Jean Fritz Genre: Biography Format: Picture book Awards: 1974 New York Times Outstanding Book of the Year Reflection: What a wonderful story that brings Sam Adams, one of our founding forefathers, to life in a very amusing way. Who would have thought someone so important was so disheveled, obstinate, and unskilled in horsemanship? Most of the pictures of portraying prominent historical figures show them in their best light. Fritz makes this man seem so much more real, even comical at times. He sounds like a perfect candidate for the TV reality show What Not to Wear. The story is well-written for children. Its entertaining, funny, and easy to read. The Postscript from the Author provides more background information and authenticity. There is no bibliography, however. The illustrations in this book are quite good. While most of the pictures are black and white sketches, color is used specifically to bring attention to certain details or characters in the picture. And only one color is used brown. The illustrations really bring the story to life. The details include facial expressions which portray the personalities and emotions of the characters. Lines and shading are also frequently used to create the appropriate mood for each illustration. Illustrator: Trina Schart Hyman

Book 6: Title: Desert Giant: The World of the Saguaro Cactus Author & Illustrator: Barbara Bash Genre: Non-fiction Format: picture book Awards: Reading Rainbow Program Selection 2004 Teacher's Choice Award Reflection: Desert Giant: The World of the Saguaro Cactus meets all the criteria for good childrens non-fiction literature. The story accurately depicts the lifecycle of the Saguaro cactus. It includes information as to the various people and animals that depend on the cactus for food, shelter, and tools. The Indian people who depend on the cactus are depicted in a very realistic respectful manner. The illustrations and diagrams give clarity to the text, helping the reader to better understand the authors message. It is very well organized and written so as to be interesting. The writing style is that of storytelling, with the cactus as the main character. As one who does not typically enjoy science nonfiction, this was a very enjoyable read. The illustrations are wonderful. Many bright colors are used, which is reflective of the southwestern culture where these plants reside. Close up images of the animals that make their homes within the cactus are well-done, allowing the reader to visualize life inside the cactus. Also, labeled diagrams are included to help the reader better understand new concepts such as the saguaro fruit and pollination. The illustrator has used curved lines to create a feeling of softness to the desert setting. Contrast between

light and dark colors is also used frequently to focus the readers attention or create a mood within the picture. What a wonderful childrens book.

Book 7: Title: Airport Author & Illustrator: Byron Barton Genre: Non-fiction Format: picture book Awards: New York Times Outstanding Book of the Year School Library Journal Best Book ALA Notable Childrens Book Library of Congress Childrens Books Reflection: Simple. Straight-forward. Easy to follow. Airport is a non-fiction book intended for very young readers. There is one sentence per page and the text is large and bold. It offers very limited information. The text is good for reinforcing left-to-right concept of reading. The text is located in the bottom left corner of one page and the bottom right corner of the next. The helps the young readers eyes move from left to right across the page. What a great book for very young readers. The illustrations are large, bright, and very important to the story. They are very simple so as not to distract the young reader from the informational aspect of the book. There is very little, if any, background. However, the child would be able to understand much of the information simply by reading the pictures. The illustrator used curved

lines to create a peaceful and simplistic mood. In some illustrations, lines are used to draw the eyes outward giving an illusion of spaciousness. The book, though simple and short, is great for very young children.

Book 8: Title: Dinosaurs to the Rescue! A Guide to Protecting Our Planet Author & Illustrator: Laurie Krasny Brown and Marc Brown Genre: Non-fiction Format: picture book Awards: no awards Reflection: The format of this book is very kid-friendly. The layout of the pages is similar to a comic book, with lots of conversation bubbles on each page. Regarding the content, it is factual and accurate. The characters dialogue includes relevant facts regarding recycling and conservation of resources. The characters are all different animals. Some of male and some are female. There is no evidence of stereotypes within the story. All characters are working together for the greater good of protecting the planet. The many recommendations for a cleaner earth that are included in this book are all relevant to children and families. In fact, there are occasions when it instructs children to ask there parents to be more energy conscious. This encourages children to analyze and think about how they can make a difference in their own homes. The is a great book for older elementary aged students.

The illustrations, together with the dialogue boxes, are enough to tell the story. The characters are portrayed in numerous compare and contrast scenarios, with the preferred behavior being most obvious.. The illustrator uses bright colors to capture the interest of children. He also uses soft lines and curves to create a friendly atmosphere. Most of the items within the pictures are labeled. This helps with clarification as to the ongoing theme of cleaning up, recycling, etc. Its a fun book for kids!

Book 9: Title: Exploring the Titanic Author: Robert D. Ballard Genre: Non-fiction Format: picture book Awards: The Pacific Northwest Library Associations Young Reader's Choice
Award, winner Senior Division, 1999 Utah Young Adults Book Award winner, 1999

Illustrator: Ken Marschall

Reflection: What an interesting story! Although I would not recommend this book for most elementary aged students due to the reading level, it is definitely a high interest read. Although Ballard is a scientist, he does an excellent job of telling the story, often writing in third person. One feels transported to that fateful night when the Titanic sank. The reader can feel the atmosphere of the ship as well as the excitement of the explorers as they uncover this long lost wreckage. As Ballard is the scientist who discovered the Titanic, the authenticity is valid. He is writing from his own experiences. He explains the various societal classes of the passengers not to create a stereotype, but to inform

the reader of important facts surrounding the actual event. His organization is easy to follow. He does move from the past to the present and back again, but does so in a way that is clearly identified and logical for the book. Ballard uses actual photographs throughout the book. These are excellent examples of what actually happened. He uses both photographs of his team and photographs of the Titanic wreckages. There are also old photos of the interior of the Titanic taken before it sank. These pictures add realness for the reader. The illustrator uses several drawing of the Titanic layout, diagrams of the ocean floor, and other pertinent illustrations to provide clarity for the text. This allows the reader to better visualize the equipment, landscape, and other issues that may not be easily understood through reading. I very much enjoyed this book.