From: Angela Reynolds <angelar>
Date: Wed, 15 Dec 1999 13:31:29 -0800

I just met with a group of 35 4th & 5th graders that are reading the following six books in preparation for a Mock Newbery Election in January:

The Hermit Thrush Sings, S. Butler Gypsy Rizka, L. Alexander Dave at Night, Levine Bud, Not Buddy, Curtis Preachers Boy, Paterson The Lost Flower Children, Lisle

here are some of their comments: Hermit Thrush Sings: Girls love the female character- doing what they often see male characters doing. They like the survival plot-line, and the characters. Several mentioned that the "place" comes alive for them. A few noted that the Birmbas were not real enough.

Lost Flower Children: Good adventure story, characters and plot keep them interested. Story is unusual, yet realistic. Some thought the ending was weak.

Gypsy Rizka: While most enjoyed the winding plot, some find it confusing. They enjoy the humor.

Bud not Buddy: They appreciate that Bud's problems are not so easily solved, that he had to actually work to find his family. One said it painted a good picture in her mind. They like the way he protects his suitcase, as the only thing he has of his mother. A few boys said it was not interesting enough (they like the adventures of Dave better).

Dave at Night; The like Dave's adventures, the fact that her is "getting away" with something. The bullies and Mr. Doom seem very real, this book evokes a lot of emotion.

Preacher's Boy: Robbie is a character they care about. They like him, his being different from his family. They like the comparison to the end of this millennium. Some find the language does not fit the times, younger readers found the book confusing.

That's from the kids-- their favorites so far seem to be Bud & Dave.

Angela J. Reynolds Youth Services Librarian Washington County Cooperative Library Services P.O. Box 5129 Aloha, OR 97006 503F694 fax: 503a5f01 angelar at wccls.lib.or.us
Received on Wed 15 Dec 1999 03:31:29 PM CST