Book Critique 4

Lilly's Crossing

Writer: Patricia Reilly Giff

Genre: Realistic Fiction

Award: Newberry Medal

Published: 1997

Reading Level: 5th-9th grade

Summary: Set during the time of World War 2, Lilly spends the summer with her Grandmother by the beach. Their she meets refugees from the war who shift her perspective about the war. The friendships she makes with the refugees become an important part of who she is.

Interdisciplinary Uses:

Social Studies- Students will learn about major political powers during World War 2 and how they greatly influenced their governed people and the war efforts.

English Language Arts- Students will compare and contrast this fictional piece with that of Anne Frank to understand the realities of war.

Where the Wild Things Are

Writer & Illustrator : Maurice Sendak

Genre: Fantasy Fiction

Award: Caldecott Medal

Published: 1963

Reading Level: Pre k- 3rd Grade

Summary: A mischievous boy names Max takes a journey to the place of the wild things where he encounters all sorts of creatures. The creatures name him the wildest of them all. However, Max realizes a wild life isn't the solution and he returns home to his family.

Interdisciplinary Uses:

Science- Students will learn about the rainforest biome and its ecosystem. Students will study the native creatures of the area and where they lie on the food chain.