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mconnelly's reviews
76 reviews
When in Rome by Sarah Adams
funny
lighthearted
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
Paper Towns by John Green
mysterious
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.5
The Women by Kristin Hannah
emotional
informative
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death and War
Moderate: Addiction and Alcoholism
Minor: Suicide
Moon Over Manifest by Clare Vanderpool
4.0
This book gives readers a look into the past, as they get to see the transition of a small town from lively and bustling to one that is feeling the effects of the depression. The story follows a young girl, Abilene Tucker, as she seeks more information about her father's past in a town that was so special to him. It provides a unique writing style, as well as context about several historical events. This would be useful in a classroom because it allows for an intriguing take on many important history concepts, such as temperance, the Ku Klux Klan, and the Great Depression.
The Invisible Boy by Trudy Ludwig
5.0
Both the story line, and the illustrations of this book are well done. It tells the story of a little boy who often feels overlooked, simply because he is very quiet. It teaches a valuable lesson to readers of all ages about the importance of friendship, and how being kind to someone can have a bigger impact than you even know. It is a perfect story for teaching children to see and acknowledge everyone, and to include even those kids who may not be particularly outgoing.
Wonder by R.J. Palacio
5.0
Wonder is a captivating book written about a young boy with facial differences who starts attending school for the first time in middle school. It deals with the ups and downs of his adjustment, as told from the perspectives of numerous people whose lives are interwoven with his. This book provides an excellent look into a topic that is not often covered. It would be great to read in a classroom because it shows students that actions and words can hurt, and thus it teaches kindness. Additionally, it familiarizes them with the point of view of someone who has differences, such as those that August has.
Scaredy Squirrel Makes a Friend by Mélanie Watt
4.0
Scaredy Squirrel is a squirrel who has a fear of almost everything. He lives alone in his tree, and tries to avoid any frightening biting animals that may try to harm him. However, after venturing down, he realizes that not all animals are what they appear, and not all are out to harm him. This book would be good to read to young children to encourage them to make friends. It is humorous, and easy to follow. It could be especially helpful for students who tend to form cliques, or who are nervous to befriend other students. It shows children that they really should never judge a book by its cover, because they may well be wrong.
I Am Helen Keller by Brad Meltzer
5.0
This book explores the life of Helen Keller, and how she navigated life without her sight. One page in the book even includes the alphabet in braille, to give students the opportunity to see how blind people read. It is an extremely useful learning tool to educate children on blindness. Additionally, it provides an interesting take on the story of such an inspiring woman.
I Will Take a Nap! by Mo Willems
3.0
This book is clearly written for younger children. It is about the elephant who just wants to take a nap, and the pig who decides that she too will nap. However, she has a problem with snoring, and mayhem ensues. It is a cute book that small children would likely enjoy very much. It is humorous, however it is not overly educational. It could be used to teach the value of getting sleep, though.
The Noisy Paint Box: The Colors and Sounds of Kandinsky's Abstract Art by Barb Rosenstock
5.0
I enjoyed this book very much. The illustrations are very well done, and the story line is interesting as well. It is about the experiences of Kandinski as a young boy, and how he could hear the colors of the art that he made, as well as his struggles in becoming an artist. The book teaches children to dream big, and pursue their dreams despite the cost. It is inspiring, and is also perfect for any child who may love art, or just biographies.