Wooden: A Lifetime Of Observations And Reflections On And Off The Court
by Coach John Wooden with Steve Jamison (1997) |
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“Coach Wooden’s own life is the embodiment of enduring American values. His priorities are, and always have been, correct---family, faith, and friends…” (Bill Walsh, former head coach SF 49’ers). This is a fine gift for a middle or upper school student—I have handed out at least 40 copies of this book. Both male and female athletes will take to this book and those in need of a father figure will benefit from this read. |
After
by Francine Prose (2003) |
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The shootings in Pleasant Valley were fifty miles away, but at Central High a grief and crisis counselor is hired, security is increased, and privileges are being taken away. She has written a disturbing novel about the tension between individual rights and safety. This is a timely and important book upon which one could base an entire course. I have yet to give this book to a student who has not read it in 2 days and then shared it with a parent. Those students who confront authority or think out of the box will be captivated by this tale.
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A Single Shard
by Linda Sue Park (2001) |
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Courage and survival at an engaging level for both students and adults---this book can be mined for years of class discussions. At first blush this books does not entice the reader but rest assured after about 80 pages the middle school student is hooked on the continuing life events that are thrown at the likeable orphan who lives under a bridge. |
Jeremy Fink and the Meaning of Life
by Wendy Mass (2006) |
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A charming story of Jeremy and his best friend Lizzy as they attempt to find the keys to open a box given to Jeremy by his dead father before his 13th birthday. Their journey together is uplifting, challenging and ultimately satisfying on a variety of levels. This book Rocks! Both the male and female characters are strong and appealing in this book. For example, you really want to read a second book to see how their relationship develops. A great exemplar for navigating the often confusing worlds of adolescent friendship/relationship development. |
The Ultimate Gift
by Jim Stovall (2001) |
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Jim Stovall has overcome blindness to become a national champion Olympic weightlifter, a successful investment broker, and entrepreneur. Jason, via a will is given a series of “gifts” which transforms him from a spoiled know-it-all to a much different person. Several middle school students and their parents have loved this book. This book is about challenge and perseverance.
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Seeker: Book One Of The Noble Warriors
by William Nicholson (2005) |
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What is a noble warrior? Can both Seeker of Truth and Wildman be noble warriors? A soon to be classic journey from boy-man and the trials and tribulations en route including confronting one’s duty to family and society. I can’t wait for the second book. |
The Story Of A Seagull And The Cat Who Taught Her To Fly
by Luis Sepulveda (1996) |
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This book highlights the importance of keeping your word. Zorba the cat promises a dying seagull that he will watch over her egg, will not eat the egg and will teach the baby gull to fly. |
Naughts & Crosses
by Malorie Blackman (2001) |
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A truly clever immersing of the reader into stereotypes regards race and relationships. A must read, undiscovered by American audiences. This books is appreciated both both the romantic student and those confronting “differences” in others and appreciating them. |
Ender’s Game
by Orson Scott Card (1985) |
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Sci-fi writing at its finest. Mankind has barely survived two separate invasions by the insectoid "buggers". The finest candidates are taken into "Battle School" at a very young age to supply commanders for the coming Third Invasion. Ender Wiggin emerges as the most capable at the tender age of six. This book will take a child away from playing videogames and beginning the joy of reading about videogames. The “training” at the “battle school” is on simulated “war games”. |
Daniel’s Walk
by Michael Spooner (2001) |
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One is transported to the Oregon Trail in a semi-mystical coming-of-age tale of historical fiction which grips you with the first sentence of “Git up , Boy !...your daddy’s in trouble.” Daniel’s journey is intense, filled with humor, romance and an unveiling of the white man’s treatment of the Native Americans.
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