Scary, Gross, and Enlightening Books for Boys Grades 312
By (Author) Deborah B. Ford
Bloomsbury Publishing PLC
Linworth Publishing, Incorporated
19th November 2009
United States
Professional and Scholarly
Non Fiction
028.55
Paperback
158
Finally, a book to help educators promote sure-fire reading pleasers to boy readers in grades 312! Scary, Gross, and Enlightening: Books for Boys Grades 3-12 is the helpful new reference handbook for educators looking for just the right books to captivate the imaginations of boys in a way that makes reading fun as well as effective. In chapters than span the full range of categories and genres, Scary, Gross, and Enlightening surveys the latest and greatest titles aimed at boys in the primary and secondary grades, including nonfiction, graphic novels, mystery and adventure, sports, sci-fi and fantasy, humor, history, books that were made into movies, read-aloud titles, and classic works that have stood the test of time. Each chapter suggests a number of appropriate and delightful titles on a specific theme and includes listings of corresponding websites, reproducible lessons, and activities. The book also provides lists of professional titles to support each chapter's theme, as well as research-based strategies for teaching with the suggested books.
After citing national studies that examine test scores, reading levels, and drop-out rates, Ford gets right to the point: to encourage readers we must provide them with books they will enjoy and plenty of choices. By doing this, and by acknowledging different learning styles, teachers and librarians can play a part in creating successful educational experiences for students. But that's not all. . . . Her superb recommendations include a variety of titles and formats. For each book included, interest and reading levels are noted, which will aid those looking for material for students reading both below and above the grade standard. Brief annotations provide plot descriptions and highlight the appeal of a particular book, and throughout Scary, Gross, and Entertaining Web sites, teaching tips, and bits of information about authors and titles to share with a class are offered in shaded boxes. The author encourages educators to try some 'non- traditional' activities to get books into the hands of reluctant readers. Her numerous suggestions range from playing '20 Questions' to planning a special event. "Despite the fact that the most recent titles listed are 2008 publications, this book can be used for inspiration and as a collection development tool. (If you can't get a handle on your students' changing tastes, poll your class with Ford's 'Reading Interest Survey.') * School Library Journal, Curriculum Connections *
Ford, an award-winning library media specialist and speaker, surveys exciting books that will capture the imaginations of boys in grades 312, covering nonfiction, graphic novels, mystery and adventure, sports, sci-fi and fantasy, humor, history, books that were made into movies, read aloud titles, and classic works. Each genre chapter includes entries with bibliographic information and brief synopses, teaching tips, and related web connections for authors, organizations, characters, books, museums, and clubs. Some of the suggested titles are not what librarians and teachers would usually consider 'great literature,' but are guaranteed to get boys to read. * Reference & Research Book News *
Although the title suggests that these books will be of primary interest to boys, teachers and librarians looking for appealing, quality titles for any reader will find a wealth of suggestions here. * School Library Journal *
Recommended. * Library Media Connection *
Deborah B. Ford is an award-winning library media specialist and international speaker with over 25 years of experience as a classroom teacher and librarian in K12 schools.