tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-74233581726414662512024-03-05T04:30:42.334-06:00whatchareadingI have always been asked WHAT ARE YOU READING by kids, parents and teachers. I constantly find myself talking to people about books, that is why I have started this blog. It is designed for anyone looking for some excellent books to read. Most of the books are appropriate for kids in grades 6 and up. If you have read any of these books and want to let other's know what you think, please feel free to add your ideas.Kerryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11545214038080078745noreply@blogger.comBlogger454125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7423358172641466251.post-91565868584516462962022-12-14T11:27:00.001-06:002022-12-14T11:27:06.408-06:00Born With - Erika and Gianni by Lorna Schultz Nicholson<p> </p><p>I have read a few other books by Lorna Schultz Nicholson <a href="https://whatchareading-kerry.blogspot.com/2018/07/bent-not-broken-by-lorna-schultz.html" target="_blank">Bent Not Broken </a> and <a href="http://whatchareading-kerry.blogspot.com/2022/12/fragile-bones-harrison-and-anna-by.html">Fragile Bones</a> are both books that share stories of high school students involved in the 'Best Buddies' program and really highlight how much we can all learn from each other. </p><p>Born With is the story of Erika, a girl with Down Syndrome and Gianni, a boy who has been paired up with her at school. Erika and Gianni are great characters, they both love to sing and act and are both auditioning for the play Grease put on at their high school. Both Erika and Gianni have different problems that they must face. While it is challenging for both of them, they learn from each other how to face these problems and move forward.</p><p>Once again, Lorna Schultz Nicholson does a great job describing the characters and situations that many people can relate to. I would highly recommend this series of books!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjxDWuOpNtsVh95jGwKA3WInT6SnstBh7dzF1v2Lkj0ItaiP4DLYN3GVVRklvMZdBebDulcugHVRUPkw9HE5wvwDlL2pHE9EEZ2Zgx6wDhtpF94SPpyeFL6UX7WMKMTGp-dMFh3XeybF748ek33-jH3EwG4nTxjWdkzUxBTQeFgkmXaChTzhzs4-ZN3" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="515" data-original-width="366" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjxDWuOpNtsVh95jGwKA3WInT6SnstBh7dzF1v2Lkj0ItaiP4DLYN3GVVRklvMZdBebDulcugHVRUPkw9HE5wvwDlL2pHE9EEZ2Zgx6wDhtpF94SPpyeFL6UX7WMKMTGp-dMFh3XeybF748ek33-jH3EwG4nTxjWdkzUxBTQeFgkmXaChTzhzs4-ZN3" width="171" /></a></div><br /><p></p>Kerry Zinkiewichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401505852097221481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7423358172641466251.post-58908739674752617082022-12-14T11:21:00.004-06:002022-12-14T11:21:57.903-06:00Fragile Bones - Harrison and Anna by Lorna Schultz Nicholson<p> Several years ago I read <a href="https://whatchareading-kerry.blogspot.com/search?q=lorna+schultz+nicholson" target="_blank">Bent not Broken </a> that told the story of the 'Best Buddies' program at a high school where special needs students are paired with a student in mainstream to have fun and learn about one another. I really enjoyed Bent Not Broken, and then I realized that there were more books in the series. </p><p>Fragile Bones is the story of Harrison, a boy in grade 10 who has autism and Anna, who is in grade 12 and is wanting to be a doctor. The two are paired up because of Anna's interest in medicine and Harrison's love of knowing all of the bones in the human body. When Harrison gets upset, he recites the bones in certain locations in the body. As both Anna and Harrison learn about each other, they also learn about themselves as they are pushed to try different things. </p><p>While this book is set in a high school, it is appropriate for Intermediate students. I really love how Lorna Schultz Nicholson describes the characters, they are always very believable. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhn3f6YuAOsLD7QyAkfengOdHkpBr_hxc6Iwimxci8R7SGBR89lh4352jr94efziujWBiX3oRapA9aIEMVnTvFan4U6DTR1fej0F0UTVcnojO7xkrAI9q91cGoAX1W8l-QpBkkQKgMdMXVs2hOyWEjjpx_mK-YC7ecgQTz5EyjsSjRtgcaJKTVmW9si" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="497" data-original-width="372" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhn3f6YuAOsLD7QyAkfengOdHkpBr_hxc6Iwimxci8R7SGBR89lh4352jr94efziujWBiX3oRapA9aIEMVnTvFan4U6DTR1fej0F0UTVcnojO7xkrAI9q91cGoAX1W8l-QpBkkQKgMdMXVs2hOyWEjjpx_mK-YC7ecgQTz5EyjsSjRtgcaJKTVmW9si" width="180" /></a></div><br /><p></p>Kerry Zinkiewichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401505852097221481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7423358172641466251.post-4865060233627666382022-08-23T14:23:00.001-05:002022-08-23T14:23:11.600-05:00Thirst by Varsha Bajaj <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">One of my friends asked me last week if I had read the <a href="https://theglobalreadaloud.com/2022/03/19/global-read-aloud-choices-2022-gra22/" target="_blank">Global Read Aloud</a> section for this year- Thirst. Since I've not read ANY young adult books this summer, I thought I should probably pick it up. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Thirst is a fairly easy read. It is the story of Minni, a girl in grade 8 who lives in Mumbai. Her family has very little money, but work very hard. Each day, just getting water is an ordeal. Her mother has to line up early in the morning in the hopes that she can get enough water to carry back home for her family. There are times when there isn't enough water and there are thieves who steal the water and then sell it back to the community at a very high price. One night, Minni sees this theft taking place which puts her and her family at risk. As events play out, Minni begins to realize that in some homes in Mumbai, there is an abundance of water - in taps, toilets and even a swimming pool. Minni learns about how some people in some neighbourhoods don't warrant fresh running water, while others who can afford many luxuries, have water easily accessible. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I enjoyed reading this story, I liked learning about life in Mumbai and it really made me think about water and how much of an impact not having it has on the people. I can see late Junior classes really enjoying this story. You can check out the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/GRAMiddleSchool/" target="_blank">Facebook group here</a> for other classrooms reading this book in the Fall of 2022.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj1aILMOiFV0Wzy5plS58SxPNWxIpKZbj1fz6kvop6lJt_ikuTQu0P0d8mc5LoUpE-d1gyikWAv4YT2JC8vh1YVji9zSXSVoXRc8htE7UFLQw3WRfJ6jjBjvHBM4xP7YeOl10d3jM58EIIRGGMCNkvcIQDSxpgEINJB0MFmvpRKhespmMph55fTQDn9" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="696" data-original-width="464" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj1aILMOiFV0Wzy5plS58SxPNWxIpKZbj1fz6kvop6lJt_ikuTQu0P0d8mc5LoUpE-d1gyikWAv4YT2JC8vh1YVji9zSXSVoXRc8htE7UFLQw3WRfJ6jjBjvHBM4xP7YeOl10d3jM58EIIRGGMCNkvcIQDSxpgEINJB0MFmvpRKhespmMph55fTQDn9" width="160" /></a></div><br /> <p></p>Kerry Zinkiewichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401505852097221481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7423358172641466251.post-31673551457285977482022-08-23T14:05:00.002-05:002022-08-23T14:05:28.140-05:00On the Line by Paul Coccia and Eric Walters <p>Well...Eric Walters has knocked it out of the park again with his newest book. On the Line was written by both Paul Coccia and Eric Walters, but it didn't ever seem like it was written by two different authors. </p><p>On the Line is a story about Jordan, a boy in grade 8 who loves basketball. He has a great relationship with his parents, although he is frustrated by all of the fights they have. The one thing he knows is that they are very supportive of his basketball, his parents attend his games and his father often coaches and plays against Jordan and his best friend Junior. When his parents decide to separate, Jordan is upset, he misses his family and having his dad around all the time. Then, he finds out his father is dating a man and Jordan needs to come to terms with this new reality. </p><p>This story brings up so many important issues that need to be spoken about. Being 13 isn't easy for anyone, but adding a divorce and learning that a family member has been hiding who they really are makes life that much more complicated. Jordan learns some very important lessons through his basketball team and his friends. </p><p>I can't wait to share this with kids in the fall! I know many students who are going to love it! </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjlANoxqg9EH4SUf0dD7BF8Ly5d_n1tY6rlCFSTNWWDtfz8Hg_fGuirWL_PkRA2y2CsgRM03rLFCuzKycRsDClnjnLa4_saUGdkURUPH-J0CfcbBfauHnygE7gnul59J4U6XKkW1f5LVM5Wu4WH3fIJCeTy9aPoqQozmtcpUnmvGi4WlhEnurmhsxoG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="694" data-original-width="472" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjlANoxqg9EH4SUf0dD7BF8Ly5d_n1tY6rlCFSTNWWDtfz8Hg_fGuirWL_PkRA2y2CsgRM03rLFCuzKycRsDClnjnLa4_saUGdkURUPH-J0CfcbBfauHnygE7gnul59J4U6XKkW1f5LVM5Wu4WH3fIJCeTy9aPoqQozmtcpUnmvGi4WlhEnurmhsxoG" width="163" /></a></div><br /> <p></p>Kerry Zinkiewichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401505852097221481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7423358172641466251.post-5914471614005632962022-06-03T12:59:00.000-05:002022-06-03T12:59:03.916-05:00Find Layla by Meg Elison <p> Now that the weather is getting nicer, I am looking forward to reading more YA books outside. This is one I ordered because I heard so many great things about it and it's been sitting on my shelf since the winter. </p><p>This story is about Layla- a girl who does her best to go unnoticed because she knows that attention might attract people who ask questions. Questions like why does she wear the same clothes everyday, why does she not wash her hair more often, what does she do for food and why can't she use her front door to get into her apartment? However, the mean girls at school like to bring attention to her appearance by tweeting about it. But Layla is determined to ignore the girls, focus on keeping her brother safe and following her love of science. </p><p>When the science teacher assigns a project to record a biome, Layla chooses her apartment to share with the class. This includes the black mold, mushrooms and a fridge that cannot even be opened. When her living conditions come to light- her video goes viral and suddenly, all the people and questions she was trying to avoid become unavoidable. Layla must decide how to allow her reality to be known to all and how to move forward when everything she has known starts changing. </p><p>Layla's story is quite heartbreaking. It reminds me of how we as adults don't have any idea what is happening in children's homes. </p><p>This book does have some mature content, there is some swearing, but it is appropriate for grades 7 and 8 students. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEghzFEobfi_ZGwH40vb0PqkOQ_QioTd42FgReJM0XJtqrgcmU1TFZwMyCvJHOpeo8pQKe0sEsTHGYMX0vmhvQmdY38qAtT_OMkkE_SaPJ9LZyvT8XnHwe-Tk0iG4MhYkeQeWF-HUCNR9sMsyUPzxGtLMQNpQHDnpzFVJUYrIPHv_ZyiQQj0iHDdFyTM" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="504" data-original-width="339" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEghzFEobfi_ZGwH40vb0PqkOQ_QioTd42FgReJM0XJtqrgcmU1TFZwMyCvJHOpeo8pQKe0sEsTHGYMX0vmhvQmdY38qAtT_OMkkE_SaPJ9LZyvT8XnHwe-Tk0iG4MhYkeQeWF-HUCNR9sMsyUPzxGtLMQNpQHDnpzFVJUYrIPHv_ZyiQQj0iHDdFyTM" width="161" /></a></div><br /> <p></p>Kerry Zinkiewichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401505852097221481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7423358172641466251.post-10002057514296826232022-01-29T10:55:00.001-06:002022-01-29T10:55:27.511-06:00George J. and the Miserable Monday by Sivan Hong<p><span style="font-family: inherit;"> I don't normally review picture books on my blog, although I don't know why, since I love a good picture book! I volunteered to review a book for the Multicultural Children's Book Day and this was the book I was sent to review. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">George J. and the Miserable Monday is a book about George, a little boy who does not like change. His biggest concern is Mondays, he worries that things at school will change and he won't be ready for the change. George's family helps him understand that change is part of life and that sometimes you have to be brave to face these changes. When George goes off to school on Monday, he learns to be brave with the help of a friend from home. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">George reminds me of so many kids I see in the early primary grades. They come to school and worry about all sorts of things and miss their families. I<span style="background-color: white; color: #0f1111;"> love how Sivan captured these feelings so many students experience and also provides a simple solution to help them be brave.</span> </span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhBsnbSDeDqxfGrBQ7MQM6wAbnnNBIGti_l440p4VdMTsBQNlvz4TMRdy-g_Ioa6P8SUTJVYYRrumntoWY6YRsk0bkQCOCgAxyCbOiaJqpG0ZNm5QJf_Ng0lQzEhBrmYV0K-LGy_wsc_mTUmaeKBy2lMKeXEjO-kVO91g9dA8JcVIVnsjQCjS3ODnER" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="262" data-original-width="263" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhBsnbSDeDqxfGrBQ7MQM6wAbnnNBIGti_l440p4VdMTsBQNlvz4TMRdy-g_Ioa6P8SUTJVYYRrumntoWY6YRsk0bkQCOCgAxyCbOiaJqpG0ZNm5QJf_Ng0lQzEhBrmYV0K-LGy_wsc_mTUmaeKBy2lMKeXEjO-kVO91g9dA8JcVIVnsjQCjS3ODnER" width="241" /></a></div><br /><p></p>Kerry Zinkiewichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401505852097221481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7423358172641466251.post-88328480473132106552022-01-11T09:24:00.002-06:002022-01-11T09:24:57.011-06:00Linked by Gordon Korman<p> I have been a fan of Gordon Korman since he wrote "This Can't Be Happening at McDonald Hall" in 1978! I was so excited to see that he had a book on the Red Maple list for 2022.</p><p>Linked is the story of a small town with a racist past that nobody wants to discuss. When Michael finds a swastika spray painted at the school, he is worried everyone will think it is him who drew it. But it remains a mystery as to who would draw it and why they would do that. For Dana, it really hits close to home because she comes from the only Jewish family in town. When more and more swastika's start to appear, the school chooses to combat hate with an act of love and bringing the school together instead of tearing them apart. As people are trying to discover which of the students has been vandalizing the school, they start to learn about the history of their town and the connection with the Klu Klux Klan. Both past and present experiences leave the town exploring their own bias and how racism plays out in everyday life. </p><p>I thought that Linked was a great story, with so many entry points for discussions with kids. I am looking forward to talking to students about it. I also think it would make a great read aloud for a class. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqkinurAlEo0tOJOP4I5fQxA-6c4Cy8Kc8jRKuT-EsatZjLMEBnISatIFHje-7KT240zAN4l1HTTnOCCC4TDIfiPKPIbId9EmMWg_9EuHPtpeGMIImZ3e5kbaYpKeZK9D1doVJt1omhbw/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="534" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqkinurAlEo0tOJOP4I5fQxA-6c4Cy8Kc8jRKuT-EsatZjLMEBnISatIFHje-7KT240zAN4l1HTTnOCCC4TDIfiPKPIbId9EmMWg_9EuHPtpeGMIImZ3e5kbaYpKeZK9D1doVJt1omhbw/" width="160" /></a></div><br /><p></p>Kerry Zinkiewichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401505852097221481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7423358172641466251.post-52308722164962486092022-01-11T07:11:00.001-06:002022-01-11T07:11:27.545-06:00Birdspell by Valerie Sherrard <p> I've read <a href="https://whatchareading-kerry.blogspot.com/search?q=valerie+sherrard" target="_blank">several</a> Valerie Sherrard books (although I haven't reviewed all of them apparently!) and I was very excited to see that one of her books was on the Red Maple list for 2022. I am working my way through all of these books so I can talk to kids about them. </p><p>Birdspell is the story of Corbin who has been trying to hold it together for a very long time. His mother suffers from bipoloar disorder which means she struggles with highs and lows. In dealing with her mental health, his mother tends to not be able to hang onto jobs, apartments, furniture and food, this has led to Corbin having to start over many, many times. Corbin is resourceful, he knows how to find food, odd jobs and how best to help his mom stay calm and under control. At his new school, he finds himself making a friend, something he has tried to avoid because it just leads to too many questions. His friend Izelle tells Corbin she needs to get rid of her pet bird, and since Corbin has always wanted a bird, this seems perfect. But when Corbin's mom starts to experience another one of her lows, and she loses her job, Corbin is worried not only about his future, but his new pet's future as well. </p><p>I loved reading this story, Corbin's situation was just so sad, and yet he handled it all so well. He reminded me of so many students who deal with issues at home, and yet are so good at keeping that side of their life hidden. </p><p>One other note about reading YA books- I have always loved reading YA books, but have struggled to read actual books (as opposed to books on my Kindle) during the school year. However, I've just discovered that I can use Cloud Library on my iPad (and phone) and borrow books from the public library. This is amazing, since it means I can now have the actual book to share with kids, but read the book digitally. I anticipate I will be able to read way more YA books now! </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAaTrk909suiLabyF6II8OSj2yIn4RxqmCekoefAocTVc3Tp7w1L5ubsEFMlaZTQzh_Y90eioMMk8rjwx_rVqmGHqefRLKLa_2aIOspwyU1b5cyFoht1r8Serhk6zqtIbkoPrsSqjlISE/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="594" data-original-width="418" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAaTrk909suiLabyF6II8OSj2yIn4RxqmCekoefAocTVc3Tp7w1L5ubsEFMlaZTQzh_Y90eioMMk8rjwx_rVqmGHqefRLKLa_2aIOspwyU1b5cyFoht1r8Serhk6zqtIbkoPrsSqjlISE/" width="169" /></a></div><br /> <p></p>Kerry Zinkiewichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401505852097221481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7423358172641466251.post-17362342309730187122021-12-30T15:53:00.005-06:002021-12-30T15:53:57.991-06:00Here's to Us by Becky Albertalli and Adam Silvera<p> Here's to Us is the sequel to <a href="https://whatchareading-kerry.blogspot.com/2021/07/what-if-its-us-by-becky-albertalli-and.html">'What if it is Us?'</a> that I read this summer. This book picks up two years after Ben and Arthur last saw each other at the end of <b>What if it is Us. </b> </p><p>In Here's to Us, we catch up with Ben who has spent his first year of college in a creative writing class with Mario, who may or may not be his boyfriend. Arthur is back in New York for the first time in two years working at his dream job being an intern in an off-Broadway play. But back home, his boyfriend Mickey is waiting for him to return and trying not to worry that Arthur is in close proximity to Ben. </p><p>Ben and Arthur are trying to remain friends, but both are grappling with see the other person with someone new while dealing with their feelings for each other. Their friends are also trying to support them as they try and figure things out. </p><p>I thought this book was great, I really enjoyed reading it - I read it on my Kindle- which is not something I usually do for YA books, however, I know that I won't be able to give this to any student in elementary school. Ben and Arthur are in college, and are in mature relationships - even though the sexual content is a minimum, it wouldn't be appropriate to give to younger students. However, secondary students who fell in love with Ben and Arthur (and Dylan and Samantha too) will love catching up with them and seeing where their life has taken them. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSoo3PzYIzSrfGRSgHLFwAAOHUnN_U3pz06mK30FV47kAfVjfOl3damR99zOUOZxFBa5B23auVtzpoKHDn41WykPa50ubVyINSTFuticaz41SRmTYi3sXSSpV_nvUEqDLfoQHzc-HiiOQ/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="314" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSoo3PzYIzSrfGRSgHLFwAAOHUnN_U3pz06mK30FV47kAfVjfOl3damR99zOUOZxFBa5B23auVtzpoKHDn41WykPa50ubVyINSTFuticaz41SRmTYi3sXSSpV_nvUEqDLfoQHzc-HiiOQ/" width="159" /></a></div><br /><p></p>Kerry Zinkiewichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401505852097221481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7423358172641466251.post-91590187195257051112021-12-25T08:49:00.001-06:002021-12-25T08:49:48.181-06:00Firefly by Philippa Dowding<p> As I work my way through reading the Red Maple books this Winter Break, this was the first one I started to read. </p><p>Firefly is the story of Fifi, aka Firefly who has just come to live with her Aunt Gayle after a traumatic event with her mom. Aunt Gayle owns The Corseted Lady, a costume shop that hosts over 7 million pieces to choose from. When Firefly has to start grade 9 at a school where she knows nobody, she decides to dress up in a different costume everyday- the options are unlimited. But dressing up doesn't stop her from reliving the events that led up to moving in with Aunt Gayle. Firefly needs to come to terms with her relationship with her mother while also learning about herself and meeting new friends and starting to trust others. </p><p>I enjoyed this story. Firefly's strength and determination reminds me so much of the students I come in contact with everyday, and it serves as a good reminder that we don't know what other people are dealing with. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixNEm3ZJs4w3I7OS42BMCLCH2zHMg8mZl59Qs7UPTAw2At1M2EMiY492zRGQ7y6LBq_oJm7KRYrAtdeFs1hjxurK7y8TcIlzPZErdRL9tOtuOwg9bo_l1BHFpG3BshLqrQVyYlN8kBP6U/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="698" data-original-width="474" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixNEm3ZJs4w3I7OS42BMCLCH2zHMg8mZl59Qs7UPTAw2At1M2EMiY492zRGQ7y6LBq_oJm7KRYrAtdeFs1hjxurK7y8TcIlzPZErdRL9tOtuOwg9bo_l1BHFpG3BshLqrQVyYlN8kBP6U/" width="163" /></a></div><br /><p></p>Kerry Zinkiewichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401505852097221481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7423358172641466251.post-64924325497402882322021-12-20T08:25:00.000-06:002021-12-20T08:25:34.975-06:00Houston, Is there a Problem? By Eric Walters <p> Anyone who knows me, knows I love all books by Eric Walters and this one is no different! It was my first YA read of Christmas 2021 holidays and what a great way to kick off two weeks of reading! </p><p>Houston is a boy who has just graduated grade 8, he is a strong student who loves all things to do with space. What makes Houston unique is that he lives with his aunt, uncle and two nephews because his parents passed away in a car accident. Houston is excited about grade 9, but nervous too. He is looking forward to spending the summer working with his uncle and making a bit of money. A surprise envelope in the mail is an all-expenses paid trip to a NASA Space Camp which leads to Houston meeting other teenagers with the same passion as him. But this camp is only the beginning of exciting adventures for Houston, as he finds himself involved in a top-secret mission with NASA. </p><p>I could not put this book down- Houston is a great character who reminds me of many students I've known over the years. The other two main teenagers; Ashley and Teal are also very real, believable characters. The story line was exciting, I loved learning about Houston's training and the dream of NASA astronauts. The ending of this story gave me chills and I can't wait to read the next one. </p><p>Any teacher (or student) in grade 6 needs to connect this book to their Space curriculum unit - I can see so many kids loving this story while learning about space and astronauts. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3CEl8RVzWBfYVdr8pMMFRvoTF09m4BFeMUHuYlQKxScxl1c_FcI19WIFEYKixhm9kKT2287PDJ207v9mzeQV0OD_za1k7d9ijo5totyIW5skTQBjpQ8Hl1kQeF8YNL3xvdXNIhzKAge0/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1130" data-original-width="752" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3CEl8RVzWBfYVdr8pMMFRvoTF09m4BFeMUHuYlQKxScxl1c_FcI19WIFEYKixhm9kKT2287PDJ207v9mzeQV0OD_za1k7d9ijo5totyIW5skTQBjpQ8Hl1kQeF8YNL3xvdXNIhzKAge0/" width="160" /></a></div><br /><p></p>Kerry Zinkiewichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401505852097221481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7423358172641466251.post-15271728484108652872021-10-09T16:27:00.002-05:002021-10-09T16:27:43.398-05:00Ground Zero by Alan Gratz<p> I can't believe how long it has been since I've read a YA book. This past summer I read a lot of adult books, but not many YA books. This week, I picked up Ground Zero because one of my students at school was telling me he was reading it and really liked it. He thought I might like it as well. I have also read <a href="https://whatchareading-kerry.blogspot.com/2018/07/ban-this-book-by-alan-gratz.html" target="_blank">Ban This Book</a> by Gratz and really liked it. </p><p>Ground Zero is the story of two kids- 9 year old Brandon who on September 11, 2001 went with his father to work on the top floor of the World Trade Centre. Brandon is in the North Tower when the first plane hit on 9/11 and he needs to find a way to escape the fire, power outages and fear of the unknown. </p><p>The other story is of Reshmina who on September 11, 2019 lives in a village in Afghanistan that is in the middle of American troops and the Taliban. Reshmina finds a wounded solider and she must decide if she should risk her, her family and her villages safety to help him. </p><p>This story was very hard to read. In both cases, the kids are in impossible situations. Brandon is confused and afraid and has no idea if he will survive and why anyone would want to attack New York. Reshmina has been living through a long war in Afghanistan, she has dreams for the future which may not be possible if the Taliban win, and yet her twin brother wants nothing more than for the enemy American soldiers to leave the country and let the Taliban rule. </p><p>It was a compelling read, but I would be very careful who I gave this book to. There is a lot to unpack in both stories. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6ZFSSCbo-UXbjudOADkdzY151dCdCJST7wMtGDtTDI2FbZSjJ7V-qljr0v5L8KtrmT-K7OrsZaAHbagzIeSXik8EiPye_9Yyk3s55hjjvAVTnbdJ_3Hpiwg8saRf599HCxP_o7uGk0jQ/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="225" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6ZFSSCbo-UXbjudOADkdzY151dCdCJST7wMtGDtTDI2FbZSjJ7V-qljr0v5L8KtrmT-K7OrsZaAHbagzIeSXik8EiPye_9Yyk3s55hjjvAVTnbdJ_3Hpiwg8saRf599HCxP_o7uGk0jQ/" width="240" /></a></div><br /> <p></p>Kerry Zinkiewichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401505852097221481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7423358172641466251.post-75014441740832129992021-07-24T13:28:00.005-05:002021-07-24T13:28:53.961-05:00What if It's Us by Becky Albertalli and Adam Silvera <p> One of my friends gave me this book to read a few weeks ago. One of the author's wrote the story "<a href="https://whatchareading-kerry.blogspot.com/2019/01/they-both-die-at-end-by-adam-silvera.html" target="_blank">They Both Die At The End</a>", which even with that big spoiler, I quite liked! </p><p>What If It's Us is the story of Arthur and Ben, both of who are trying to figure out their life. Arthur is in New York City just for the summer and is hoping to find romance. Ben has been born and raised in New York and is a bit more jaded, he has just ended a relationship that also took away a friend group. When Ben and Arthur meet at the Post Office, sparks fly for both of them. While Arthur is optimistic about not only finding Ben after they get separated, but also sees the potential for love. Ben thinks about Arthur, but has a hard time believing that even if they meet again, that anything will come of it. </p><p>Throughout the story, Ben and Arthur explore what it means when you are in a relationship with someone who has very different outlooks on life. </p><p>I thought this story was great! I loved both Ben and Arthur. There were parts in the book where I laughed out loud with some of the situations and thoughts both of them had. I also loved the fact that this book is about two boys in a relationship, it was refreshing to read a story about two people looking for love and they just happened to be boys. </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxjlYFfF9XKkxR21ZSXaxmcHoDrfyegRrttlNSwNahgEUDPLbqZxY6WRgWtEu7fnaxO7cu0IN97t3n4C9leymSL9qnyqpu6dRHVIIFCHNkJYyjbtK4fCLAdyH7W3iwDNj6mStbSjzu0dw/s2048/what+if.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1356" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxjlYFfF9XKkxR21ZSXaxmcHoDrfyegRrttlNSwNahgEUDPLbqZxY6WRgWtEu7fnaxO7cu0IN97t3n4C9leymSL9qnyqpu6dRHVIIFCHNkJYyjbtK4fCLAdyH7W3iwDNj6mStbSjzu0dw/s320/what+if.jpeg" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Kerry Zinkiewichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401505852097221481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7423358172641466251.post-55044444308358044542021-05-23T07:19:00.002-05:002021-05-23T07:19:45.752-05:00I'll Give You the Sun by Jandy Nelson<p> This book has been sitting on my shelf for a while now. I remember picking it up and starting it, and not being able to get into it. I decided to give it another go yesterday and I am SO GLAD I DID! (This is a good time to remind people that sometimes when books don't grab you right away, come back to them). I read this book yesterday and could not put it down, I couldn't sleep until I finished it!</p><p>I'll Give You the Sun is the story of Jude and Noah, twins who were as close as could be, but also as different as could be. When they were 13, Noah was sky, quiet and very unsure of himself. Jude was outgoing, popular and brave. Yet at 16, they seem to have switched roles, now Noah is the popular one and Jude is the introvert and they rarely speak to each other. The story is about how that rift came about and the challenges they have living without the support of one another. </p><p>The story is told from both Jude and Noah's perspective and also alternates between their life at 13 and their life at 16. It is a really interesting way to tell the story. </p><p>I honestly loved this book so much! Jude and Noah's story broke my heart- watching siblings fall away from one another was hard to read. The challenges they faced in their lives also made me so sad. But throughout the story, you could sense the love that had for one another and for their family- as shattered as it was. </p><p>This story has some mature parts in it, but nothing that I wouldn't give to an Intermediate student. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl6oX9tdr6qeoXUgDiqiqsuFgLRhoUuqQff2tmfXOUFSsEND6vAlRya9kmYFfd-bSi96TKUFrlu8g3pK9B7vx_eThw9UxpqVxhzj4zXNLKMlIbdgxxGVd27Y6obp8nW5EeL1QCzqL0d1c/s1134/Screen+Shot+2021-05-23+at+8.10.04+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1134" data-original-width="772" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl6oX9tdr6qeoXUgDiqiqsuFgLRhoUuqQff2tmfXOUFSsEND6vAlRya9kmYFfd-bSi96TKUFrlu8g3pK9B7vx_eThw9UxpqVxhzj4zXNLKMlIbdgxxGVd27Y6obp8nW5EeL1QCzqL0d1c/s320/Screen+Shot+2021-05-23+at+8.10.04+AM.png" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Kerry Zinkiewichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401505852097221481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7423358172641466251.post-82570899559481725642021-05-15T15:48:00.001-05:002021-05-15T15:48:04.058-05:00Zara Hossain is here by Sabina Khan<p> A few weeks ago I read <a href="http://whatchareading-kerry.blogspot.com/2021/04/the-love-and-lies-of-rukhsana-ali-by.html" target="_blank">The Love and Lies of Rukhsana Ali</a> by Sabina Khan, and I knew I needed to read her first book- Zara Hossian is Here. Today was the first really nice day of the spring, and so it was a great excuse to sit outside and finish this book. </p><p>Zara Hossian is Here is the story of Zara, a 17 year old Muslim girl who is living in Texas. She has been there since her family moved there from Pakistan when she was 3 years old. Her father is a doctor whose hospital has been sponsoring the families green card application so that they can become citizens of the United States. So far, the family has been waiting for over 8 years for this to happen. At her high school, Zara is the only Muslim girl and she faces constant racist comments from Tyler- the hero of the football team. But when Tyler takes things too far one day, suddenly Zara's whole future is put in jeopardy. </p><p>I found this story to be really interesting. I loved the description of the food Zara's mother makes for her. I have decided I want to learn to make my own chai because of how often it was mentioned in this story. Zara's family is really just working to live their best life and to be contributing members of society. Zara is also a great character. I love that her best friend is the boy next door and that she doesn't back down when faced with a challenging situation. The racist comments she deals with on a daily basis is heart breaking. Even though Zara is 17, this book is very appropriate for kids in grade 7 and 8. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC-ONhEn-tKmDqvxuBlft3zOKBxjFSqA1NwyHqllSF9Id-b2UM3atPUb9WuPE93oA7UhiqpI32uP7a4HpxkeHBtabNSt2Q33EVc8DkkrPGCdy3EAKp5e3zmjqffWfXU6QnBjTObGzt94A/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1066" data-original-width="704" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC-ONhEn-tKmDqvxuBlft3zOKBxjFSqA1NwyHqllSF9Id-b2UM3atPUb9WuPE93oA7UhiqpI32uP7a4HpxkeHBtabNSt2Q33EVc8DkkrPGCdy3EAKp5e3zmjqffWfXU6QnBjTObGzt94A/" width="158" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><br /></p>Kerry Zinkiewichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401505852097221481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7423358172641466251.post-45665235553616664952021-04-26T15:12:00.003-05:002021-04-26T15:12:37.878-05:00Saints and Misfits by S.K. Ali <p> Last week I read <a href="http://whatchareading-kerry.blogspot.com/2021/04/love-from-to-z-by-sk-ali.html">Love from A to Z </a>by S.K. Ali and loved it so much, so I ordered her first one- Saints and Misfits and I enjoyed it as much! </p><p>Saints and Misfits is the story of Janna, a Muslim teenager who is struggling to fit in and struggling to figure out who she wants to be and who she can trust. There are times when she feels like a misfit- mostly when she is trying to figure out how she wants to represent herself as a Muslim. She knows that wearing a hijab is important to her mother, but her father doesn't like it. Or when she has a crush on a boy who doesn't follow her faith, one of her friends disapproves, but her other friend thinks it is great. Janna sees others as Saints, like the girl her brother wants to get to know better. On the surface she seems perfect and Janna has a hard time seeing past that. Then, there is the Monster, the boy who seems perfect to the outside world, but Janna knows his secret and it scares her. This story is really about how Janna tries to figure out how all the Saints, Misfits and Monster fit together in her world. </p><p>This was another great story for me to read. I loved Janna's story and her take on the world. I can see lots of kids enjoying this book. The book does deal with a mature topic (the monster is really a monster) but it is addressed in a very sensitive way. I wouldn't hesitate to give this book to anyone in grade 7 or 8. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGwfa39x7O66io40TgK1fK9wtcSPXrY7VWRQwhCttelCraB7lpICvFeFEVNdj7TcvWVLnloLtEDjCbuhpFzxFNW0oxxQyKo8wAnUwpricqiSyGNA8Z1t_5OuMgPPhRly6NFTpr09QnySk/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="481" data-original-width="327" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGwfa39x7O66io40TgK1fK9wtcSPXrY7VWRQwhCttelCraB7lpICvFeFEVNdj7TcvWVLnloLtEDjCbuhpFzxFNW0oxxQyKo8wAnUwpricqiSyGNA8Z1t_5OuMgPPhRly6NFTpr09QnySk/" width="163" /></a></div><br /><p></p>Kerry Zinkiewichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401505852097221481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7423358172641466251.post-34078248801929105352021-04-19T13:56:00.002-05:002021-04-19T13:59:02.771-05:00The Love and Lies of Rukhsana Ali by Sabina Khan <p> This book was recommended to me this week by another teacher and I ordered it right away and read it in one sitting. This book was somewhat like <a href="http://whatchareading-kerry.blogspot.com/2021/04/love-from-to-z-by-sk-ali.html" target="_blank">Love from A to Z</a> that I read yesterday in that it deals with teenagers of Muslim faith who are navigating relationships. </p><p>This story is about Rukhsana, a 17 year old who lives with her younger brother, mother and father. Her parents are conservative Muslims living in Seattle. They are very concerned with appearances and how Rukhsana is living her life. Her younger brother gets away with more because he is the male of the family. Rukhsana is just trying to hold out until the end of high school when she can escape and pursue her dream of going to school at Caltech. Rukhsana needs to hide much of her life from her parents, from going to parties, to wearing makeup to the fact that she has a girlfriend. Keeping the relationship with Ariana secret from her parents is hard, but she knows that her parents will never accept her lifestyle. When her mother catches Ariana and her together, Rukhsana is taken quickly away to Bangladesh, where her extended family lives. Once there, Rukhsana is thrown into a much more traditional way of life, and in a place where loving Ariana is seen as a sin. Rukhsana needs to figure out how to be the person she wants to be, and how to help her parents understand what she needs out of life. </p><p>This story was amazing! Rukhsana's story was heartbreaking to read. She is a very smart young girl with a bright future ahead of her. Her love for her family makes it very challenging to go a different way from what her parents want and reading as she struggles with that was hard at times. </p><p>Even though the main character is 17, this book is very appropriate for grade 7 and up. I love the fact that Sabina Khan is Canadian, I love reading Canadian Authors!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIkBT264QOJBzSeRfxecxJUwYCzWKphpbWq2kEu1e93Lmjjoau7W-J9_qUp71ILgkqi4StSw0aawbqB3jkA9i3yr57k-kI2wAGXLH06NB7Aov0PvPcs7NWEcp-wQyKwGK1ToHC5J7Z370/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="694" data-original-width="466" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIkBT264QOJBzSeRfxecxJUwYCzWKphpbWq2kEu1e93Lmjjoau7W-J9_qUp71ILgkqi4StSw0aawbqB3jkA9i3yr57k-kI2wAGXLH06NB7Aov0PvPcs7NWEcp-wQyKwGK1ToHC5J7Z370/" width="161" /></a></div><br /><br /><p></p>Kerry Zinkiewichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401505852097221481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7423358172641466251.post-62611962847366647762021-04-16T12:08:00.000-05:002021-04-16T12:08:14.014-05:00Love from A to Z by S.K. Ali<p> I have no idea where I picked up this book. I've had it sitting on my shelf for about a year, and one of my goals for Spring Break was to clear some of the books off my book shelf, so that I can buy more books of course! </p><p>Love from A to Z is the story of Adam and Zayneb, two teenagers who have a chance meeting that changes the course of their life. Zayneb is flying to meet her aunt in Doha, Qatar after being suspended from school because she spoke out against her teacher who was reminding her class that Muslims are 'bad'. Adam is also flying to his family in Doha, Qatar after receiving the news that he has multiple sclerosis, the same disease the his mother had. On the plane, Adam happens to notice that Zayneb keeps a journal like his- recording marvels and oddities and feels compelled to get to know her. </p><p>But Zayneb is struggling how to deal with the anger she feels towards all the incidents of islamophobia that she faces. Adam is struggling with coming to terms with his diagnosis and the impact this will have on his little sister and his father who are still dealing with the death of his mother. </p><p>As Zayneb and Adam find themselves together more and more often, they are drawn to each other. However the challenges they are facing make it difficult to get closer to one another. Using their journals, they are able to share their inner feelings and wishes, and the reader is taken on the journey with them. </p><p>I am so glad that I picked up this one yesterday. I devoured it in one sitting, I couldn't stop reading it. Zayneb is an amazing character, she is independent and determined to make a change in the world. Adam is kind, caring and creative. Together they are a fun couple. I loved learning more about what it means to be Muslim and how relationships develop for devote Muslim's. I also loved the fact that the story was set in Qatar, a country I know nothing about. I thought this book had so many interesting discussion points. I can't wait to give it to kids to read. I also love the fact that the author <a href="https://skalibooks.com/" target="_blank">S.K. Ali </a>is Canadian, and that she has more books for me to order and read-after I clear my shelf a bit more, I've already placed some of them on my wish list! While the main characters in this story are 17, the book is very appropriate for Intermediate and up. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrgSryFjbji1jfBgWvxAdBhz11ePpRSD9l0oIXRGHg_VS93SCO-aqeDVa1vAiqfyW_Ym1aOYRuEfoM0kqfH-BNg71eq5c5ZoZljDBvVmTxbb2LWkcFmMXxb03-PmoxnQirGUc8yofwrtU/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="230" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrgSryFjbji1jfBgWvxAdBhz11ePpRSD9l0oIXRGHg_VS93SCO-aqeDVa1vAiqfyW_Ym1aOYRuEfoM0kqfH-BNg71eq5c5ZoZljDBvVmTxbb2LWkcFmMXxb03-PmoxnQirGUc8yofwrtU/" width="158" /></a></div><br /><p></p>Kerry Zinkiewichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401505852097221481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7423358172641466251.post-73828742032367896642021-04-14T11:18:00.001-05:002021-04-14T11:18:12.130-05:00Ciel by Sophie Labelle <p> Ciel was given to me by one of the teachers at school who had been given this book and thought it might be a bit too mature for his class. I picked it up yesterday to read and couldn't put it down. </p><p>Ciel is the story of Ciel, a student ready to start high school. But as a gender, non-conforming transgender kid, things are a bit confusing. Ciel is pretty shy, has one best friend, Stephie, a trans girl who has decided this year that she doesn't want anyone to know she is trans. Ciel worries about accidentally outing Stephie by being themselves. So Ceil tries to dress in colours that are boring and will help them blend in and not stand out. As both Stephie and Ceil navigate high school, they are faced with meeting new friends, trying to determine who they want to be and confronted with bias and unkind people. </p><p>I really enjoyed reading this story. It helped me have a better understanding of what it is like for students who are questioning their gender and what pronouns they want to use. Both Ciel and Stephie are really interesting and believable characters. I can see several students at school enjoying this book. </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7lPLdSmN8YiOaNuckh6CmRHeKt2sRmp2PGPv79fZbzijL8e6yAfds8bCjgbiaETuuEd-KuLHeFzzpXRvrL_GftfRU7ECdGTumULhmSn_Mn_tCMUr2gWnluyd-HbunbQPHz_Gry7i6hUc/s1144/Screen+Shot+2021-04-14+at+12.02.43+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1144" data-original-width="794" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7lPLdSmN8YiOaNuckh6CmRHeKt2sRmp2PGPv79fZbzijL8e6yAfds8bCjgbiaETuuEd-KuLHeFzzpXRvrL_GftfRU7ECdGTumULhmSn_Mn_tCMUr2gWnluyd-HbunbQPHz_Gry7i6hUc/s320/Screen+Shot+2021-04-14+at+12.02.43+PM.png" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Kerry Zinkiewichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401505852097221481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7423358172641466251.post-51061251652711351852021-04-12T13:43:00.000-05:002021-04-12T13:43:13.460-05:00Rick by Alex Gino<p> This is the second book I've read by <a href="https://whatchareading-kerry.blogspot.com/2021/03/george-by-alex-gino.html" target="_blank">Alex Gino</a> after asking on Twitter for books that would support the LGBTQ+ community. I really enjoy Gino's stories, they are filled with interesting characters and deal with the uncertainty that can plague many students before high school. One of the things I like about these books is the fact that they are written at an appropriate level for students in grade 6 and up, the situation the kids find themselves in seem very believable and relevant to the lives of students today. </p><p>Like George in the first book, Rick is questioning who he is and who he might be when he gets older. His best friend and father often talk about girls and question Rick about which girls he likes. The only problem is, Rick doesn't look at girls that way. He also doesn't look at boys that way. At this point, Rick does not feel romantically interested in either sex. </p><p>When starting at a new middle school (grade 6-8), there is a Rainbow Spectrum club that interests him, but he is worried. Rick is not only worried about what he will find inside the club, but he is also worried about what his best friend Jeff will say. Rick has started to realize that although Jeff is a great kid to hang around with when it is just the two of them, when Jeff is with other kids, he can be quite mean. This book is really an exploration of how Rick deals with growing up and being uncertain about things. </p><p>I am really enjoying these stories, one of the things I loved about this book was that the Rainbow Spectrum Club decides to raise money to purchase books that feature LGBTQ+ characters and issues. This is something that I am also trying to do. I wish at the end there was a list of more books like this one! </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIuESK5NmpMSbw0fkfUEmD_hIdy1AFDuXUbLgzCtU6wZbjuFIer01TrPp6b-mKFvE3eINd0w96cKrYNPWndWRflrJg3qztbJrb7lnADM-TnTsIvALwg89IF1I00miLimD5O5DRJPCY1VY/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="348" data-original-width="236" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIuESK5NmpMSbw0fkfUEmD_hIdy1AFDuXUbLgzCtU6wZbjuFIer01TrPp6b-mKFvE3eINd0w96cKrYNPWndWRflrJg3qztbJrb7lnADM-TnTsIvALwg89IF1I00miLimD5O5DRJPCY1VY/" width="163" /></a></div><br /> <p></p><p><br /></p>Kerry Zinkiewichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401505852097221481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7423358172641466251.post-31267178855911398152021-04-12T13:33:00.006-05:002021-04-12T13:33:56.181-05:00The Unquiet Past by Kelley Armstrong <p> I'm a huge Kelley Armstrong fan as an adult reader, and so when I saw this YA book sitting in one of my teachers classrooms, I had to grab it. Then, when I realized it was part of Eric Walter's <a href="https://www.readthesecrets.com/" target="_blank">Secret series,</a> (see my blog post on his book <a href="https://whatchareading-kerry.blogspot.com/2016/01/innocent-by-eric-walters.html" target="_blank">Innocent)</a> I was even more excited to read it. </p><p>In this story, Tess has been living at the Orphanage for as long as she can remember. She has also been plagued with visions and nightmares her whole life. She has only ever told one person, her best friend about this because she is worried about how people will react. When the orphanage burns down, Tess is set free since she is close to her 18th birthday. Before she leaves, she is given a clue to her past. This clue leads her to a mystery that she needs to solve to learn not only where she comes from, but where she might go next in her life. Along the way, she meets both kind and frightening people, some of whom try to help, some of whom want to hurt her and stop her from discovering their secrets and her own. </p><p>This was a quick read, but an enjoyable one. Tess is a great character- strong, determined, and smart. Even though this story is set in the 1960's, she is independent and willing to take risks to meet her goals. I really enjoyed her character as well as the others we meet along through her adventure. I can see many girls enjoying this story. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJktBtwgZNK2UInpVRvHP4X4JCz-L6I2mgXMiH8_nvienDgmTlUYrb-0zVnrW-wiwzoL6XBbovqSclSn1c2AkqBB4E8MTIwLUU-usoHqP1gJTaOt_5JFZrUxRE2Cjdi0idUmr_8JDGCiY/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="297" data-original-width="202" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJktBtwgZNK2UInpVRvHP4X4JCz-L6I2mgXMiH8_nvienDgmTlUYrb-0zVnrW-wiwzoL6XBbovqSclSn1c2AkqBB4E8MTIwLUU-usoHqP1gJTaOt_5JFZrUxRE2Cjdi0idUmr_8JDGCiY/" width="163" /></a></div><br /> <p></p>Kerry Zinkiewichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401505852097221481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7423358172641466251.post-78042315201029665512021-04-05T15:06:00.000-05:002021-04-05T15:06:11.460-05:00Game Changer by Neal Shusterman<p> This book popped up on my twitter feed last week and it was quite intriguing. So I ordered it and started it yesterday. <a href="https://whatchareading-kerry.blogspot.com/search?q=neal+shusterman" target="_blank">I've read a few books</a> by Neal Shusterman and have always found them very interesting and unusual. They are often quite complex and leave me thinking about the book long after I've finished it, Unwind was like that for me, I still think about one scene in that story. I think Game Changer will be a book that will live with me too. </p><p>It's a bit hard to describe the plot of Game Changer - the story is about Ash, who is a tackle on his high school football team. He has some good friends and seems to have a moral compass that helps him accept others. One Friday night, Ash is hit during the football game and something feels 'off'. He can't quite figure out what it is, but slowly he realizes that he is an alternative universe, where things are similar, but not quite the same as the one he left. As Ash tries to revert his life back to what it was, he experiences different situations that cause him to question what he has always believed. Everything from LGBTQ rights, to racism, to sexism. Ash is forced to figure out what he really believes and who he wants to be, if he can get the world to right itself again. </p><p>I found that I could not put this book down when I was reading it. It was fascinating, although there were times when the idea of alternative universes was hard to follow. The story however was really interesting. Living with Ash as he tried to navigate new realities and watching him being forced to experience the way others are treated made him question his own life and his own privilege. I think this book would be great to use in a literature circle since it would be a good to have a conversation with students as they read it. There are some mature bits to this story, but nothing I wouldn't share with Intermediate students. </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1clrbciXiyr5zIRJDEl9POlsqjyiCQZxsqE78iBqTXKOIu5JNwiZM9_3iiRK6S0XyGjr0KgqvQff2dGmC4SZjQSaSWG3mNnXT7sfhDtHrjSm94NHdpq4rgV2dUC6U6rd8s5pWpaq7Amo/s723/Screen+Shot+2021-04-05+at+3.51.07+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="723" data-original-width="476" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1clrbciXiyr5zIRJDEl9POlsqjyiCQZxsqE78iBqTXKOIu5JNwiZM9_3iiRK6S0XyGjr0KgqvQff2dGmC4SZjQSaSWG3mNnXT7sfhDtHrjSm94NHdpq4rgV2dUC6U6rd8s5pWpaq7Amo/s320/Screen+Shot+2021-04-05+at+3.51.07+PM.png" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Kerry Zinkiewichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401505852097221481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7423358172641466251.post-32912636590025543892021-04-04T08:34:00.002-05:002021-04-04T08:34:18.719-05:00Sara and the Search for Normal by Wesley King<p> This book was given to me to read by one of the teachers at my school. It is the prequel to the book <a href="https://whatchareading-kerry.blogspot.com/2019/10/ocdaniel-by-wesley-king.html" target="_blank">OCDaniel</a> that I borrowed from him a few years ago. Sara and the Search for Normal is another book dealing with mental health issues that are faced by so many students. </p><p>In this story, all 12 year old Sara wants is to be 'normal', in fact she wants it so much that she has a list of over 100 rules that will help her be normal. Some of the items on her list are things like: stop having panic attacks, get back into a regular classroom and stop taking pills. In her weekly therapy sessions with her doctor, he constantly reminds her that there is no normal, and that she needs to learn to like herself, but Sara has a hard time believing that. When her doctor recommends group therapy, Sara meets Erin, another girl who has her own issues and who handles her anxiety by pulling out her hair. Erin becomes Sara's first friend and together they learn that nobody is normal, but lots of people are good at pretending they are. </p><p>I thought this book was amazing! I could not put it down. As I was reading it I was thinking about so many kids who need the messages found in this book - learning to accept yourself, flaws and all is so hard for students, and for students who struggle with mental health, it is even harder. I can see so many students learning from this. Once again, Wesley King has dealt with a serious issue that impacts so many kids in a way that opens the door for conversation, but most importantly for acceptance. I will be buying my own copy of this book!</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilMdMCwTDzdKuAI6t2uWxM_fA5FWzVpNYaguLFTWWYKYCRLYGe8BfsHWhWt6DaVksAGsSnf24XK4L_JawWbHJO5Fdj2pvn8lBvLXkmkWt1eTDfkPVpqIo1PeAOtpBKqRe7WP8diiNS9Io/s726/Screen+Shot+2021-04-04+at+9.23.19+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="726" data-original-width="479" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilMdMCwTDzdKuAI6t2uWxM_fA5FWzVpNYaguLFTWWYKYCRLYGe8BfsHWhWt6DaVksAGsSnf24XK4L_JawWbHJO5Fdj2pvn8lBvLXkmkWt1eTDfkPVpqIo1PeAOtpBKqRe7WP8diiNS9Io/s320/Screen+Shot+2021-04-04+at+9.23.19+AM.png" /></a></div><br /> <p></p>Kerry Zinkiewichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401505852097221481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7423358172641466251.post-7563583815980544232021-04-02T10:34:00.002-05:002021-04-02T10:34:32.194-05:00Unravel by Sharon Jennings<p> I'm not actually sure where I saw this book- but it arrived yesterday and since it is Good Friday and I am planning on reading all weekend long, it was a good first choice. I'm not sure I've read one of Sharon Jennings books before, but I really enjoyed this book. </p><p>The story starts out with the chapter title "The Day that was the Beginning of the End" and the mystery goes from there. Rebecca is an eleven year old girl who lives an odd life. She doesn't go to school, but is homeschooled by her dad. Her and her dad move often, her dad Joe makes them move whenever strangers get too close and ask too many questions. At the start of the story, Rebecca is comfortable living in their most recent apartment, she has lots of adults looking after her, teaching her things like cooking, math and other life skills. Rebecca is well liked and feels loved by the adults in her life. However she is starting to question things in her life like what happened to her mom, why don't they have any other family, why won't her father allow her to choose her own clothes and reading materials. As Rebecca starts to question more and more, her father becomes more and more angry with her. </p><p>Then Rebecca meets Phoebe, a mysterious women from their new apartment building. As Rebecca continues to question her life, Phoebe is there to help her learn the truth about her life. </p><p>This story was a quick read, but mostly because I couldn't put it down. Rebecca is such a smart, resourceful, strong young women. I loved all of the references to the books she reads, and I also loved how this story was set in Toronto. I can see lots of students enjoying this story!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE3ZSRtma-F7swt78etS-F76KuiGYmr7aZ9gMM0_xZsShTNerh2sBCHJrOT6AzmNJQYYmFX08eiBh9VwPTu0JaZTbwlo8v7xFh3R1PBFe3Rv51dAJvTugELyAc6LoeYZeQHsY2q-JlMVs/s1064/Screen+Shot+2021-04-02+at+11.23.25+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="734" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE3ZSRtma-F7swt78etS-F76KuiGYmr7aZ9gMM0_xZsShTNerh2sBCHJrOT6AzmNJQYYmFX08eiBh9VwPTu0JaZTbwlo8v7xFh3R1PBFe3Rv51dAJvTugELyAc6LoeYZeQHsY2q-JlMVs/s320/Screen+Shot+2021-04-02+at+11.23.25+AM.png" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Kerry Zinkiewichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401505852097221481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7423358172641466251.post-87363107010086960412021-03-23T16:13:00.000-05:002021-03-23T16:13:09.509-05:00George by Alex Gino<p> A few weeks ago I put out a call on Twitter for books that would help support LGBTQ+ students. I wanted to expand my library so that everyone could find a book that they could see themselves in if that is what they were looking for. Alex Gino was recommended to me as an author that might work for middle grade students, he is a new author to me, and I'm really glad I found him. </p><p>George is the story of a 10 year old boy who identifies as a girl, however, she hasn't told anyone yet. When the school decides to put on the play Charlotte's Web, the only part George wants to play is Charlotte, but George isn't sure what the rest of the school or her classmates will accept that. George's best friend Kelly is a great support, but George is afraid to tell her as well. </p><p>In this story, George has to worry about the reaction of his mother and brother, his classmates- especially the two class bullies and his friend. I really liked how Alex Gino dealt with the issue of someone who is transgender and the complex emotions and reactions that come from different people. Even though the main characters are in grade 4, I think this book would be of interest to students in older grades. I'm looking forward to showcasing this book in some way. </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7CP5svdO9uKfubqkH5YTj8EQ-E05a97IbL4q3B_-vcVPHn7-JSfQJm5oJe9EiL_ZG_Xw9tSe9dYWNk_2OH2B8ayrc0-U06rLTLZMpWJFwcwB-D17-vyCNCZ6ijjt9CiMoDoKww-wQtNY/s548/Screen+Shot+2021-03-23+at+5.04.46+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="548" data-original-width="370" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7CP5svdO9uKfubqkH5YTj8EQ-E05a97IbL4q3B_-vcVPHn7-JSfQJm5oJe9EiL_ZG_Xw9tSe9dYWNk_2OH2B8ayrc0-U06rLTLZMpWJFwcwB-D17-vyCNCZ6ijjt9CiMoDoKww-wQtNY/s320/Screen+Shot+2021-03-23+at+5.04.46+PM.png" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Kerry Zinkiewichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09401505852097221481noreply@blogger.com0