27. Ghost World by Daniel Clowes

Ghost World by Daniel Clowes

ISBN: 1-56097-427-3

Fantagraphics Books, Seattle, 1998

80 p.

Plot Summary

Having recently graduated high school, best friends Enid and Becky wander around their town pondering how they are going to spend the rest of their lives.  With a witty cynicism, both girls criticize elements of pop culture they see around them and the people they run in to.  While Becky embraces some aspects of mainstream culture, such as the teen magazine Sassy, Enid is much more critical of them.  Much more vocal than Becky, Enid plays pranks on multiple characters, including their friend and potential romantic interest, Josh, finding humor in most of the situations.  Because of her passive personality, Becky typically plays second fiddle to Enid, letting Enid do the talking.  When Becky finds out that Enid is taking an entrance exam to go away to college, she is upset that Enid did not tell her about it.  Although they believed that they would be friends forever, the thought of Enid moving away leads them to question their future together. 

Critical Evaluation

Prior to Ghost World, I had not read a graphic novel, so I wasn’t quite sure what to expect.  I was nervous that I wouldn’t be able to get into the story and the use of images would throw me.  However, I am glad that I stepped into this world and, especially, that I picked Ghost World to usher me inside.  Rather than causing me to lose focus, the panels added to the story, helping me to quickly understand the world of Enid and Becky.  Considering the graphic novel is only eighty pages long, this is an important element because it does not need much introduction for the characters and just jumps right into their lives.  Clowes’ artwork is beautiful, comprised solely of blue and black.  The characters are drawn with such expressive faces that it is possible to understand their feelings without knowing the context.  However, even more impressive than the art is Clowes’ ability to capture the realities of teenage life and the fading relationship between best friends.  The two main characters use some vulgar language and criticize nearly everyone in town.  Although Enid and Becky act tough, there are several times throughout the novel where their insecurities and vulnerability show through.   It is this juxtaposition of tough and vulnerable that makes the characters seem real.  Also, despite their faults, or maybe even because of, I grew to love Enid and Becky and enjoyed going on the journey of growing up with them.

Reader's Annotation

Recent high school graduates, Enid and Becky loathe many of the people and places that surround them, but their friendship anchors them there.  As they start to grow apart, they begin questioning whether their relationship is what is holding them back from ultimately growing up.

Information About the Author

Daniel Clowes was born in Chicago, Illinois in 1961.  He attended the Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, New York, graduating with a BFA degree in 1984.  His first published work appeared in Cracked Magazine in 1985, and 1986 saw the debut of his first comic-book series Lloyd Llewellyn, which ran for seven issues.  In 1989, he created the seminal comic-book series Eightball, where virtually all of his major comics work first appeared.  The series ran for 23 issues through 2004 and earned the artist a large following and multiple industry awards including several Eisner, Harvey, and Ignatz awards.  Collected from its pages are the graphic novels Like a Velvet Glove Cast in Iron, an indescribable nightmare-journey through pre-millennial America; Pussey!, a brutal examination of the comics industry; Ghost World, his breakthrough hit about the last summer of a teenage friendship; and David Boring, a dark and apocalyptic story of obsession.  

Clowes has also released two anthologies of his Eightball comics: Caricature, an acclaimed short-story collection; and Twentieth Century Eightball, a collection of humor strips including “Art School Confidential” and “Ugly Girls.”  Clowes moved to full color with the last two issues of Eightball, each of which featured a stand-alone story and a shift in both visual and storytelling techniques.  These issues include Ice Haven, an intricate tale of kidnapping and alienation in a small Midwestern town and The Death-Ray, the unlikely story of a teenage superhero in the 1970s.  (information from author’s website: http://www.danielclowes.com/bio.html)

Genre

Graphic Novel - Realistic

Curriculum Ties

N/A

Booktalking Ideas

1. Focus on the relationship between Enid and Becky.

2. Discuss Becky’s reaction when she discovers that Enid is applying to college.

3. Talk about the role Josh plays in Enid and Becky’s relationship.

4. Describe a few of the characters that Enid and Becky meet throughout the novel.

Reading Level/Interest Age

16+

Challenge Issues

The graphic novel contains vulgar language and sexual situations, including a couple of nude panels.

When confronted with complaints about this novel, librarians should become familiar with the material and its content.  Turn to reviews from publications such as Publisher’s Weekly, School Library Journal, and Booklist, as well as reviews from teens that have read it.  Also, it is beneficial for librarians to present reasons backed by the ALA in support of intellectual freedom.  As stated in the Library Bill of Rights:

I. Books and other library resources should be provided for the interest, information, and enlightenment of all people of the community the library serves. Materials should not be excluded because of the origin, background, or views of those contributing to their creation.

II. Libraries should provide materials and information presenting all points of view on current and historical issues. Materials should not be proscribed or removed because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval.

III. Libraries should challenge censorship in the fulfillment of their responsibility to provide information and enlightenment.

Why Include Book in Selection? 

I wanted to branch out and read a graphic novel for this project.  After hearing some rave reviews of Ghost World during our genre/author presentations, I decided to try out this one.

26. Twilight: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack by Various Artists

Twilight: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack by Various Artists

Summit Ent/Chop Shop/Atlantic Records
Produced by Alexandra Patsavas and Paul Katz

Released: November 4, 2008

Number of Tracks: 12

Summary

Twilight: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack is comprised of twelve tracks from various artists, including Muse, Paramore, Linkin Park, and Robert Pattinson.  The soundtrack features two songs by alternative rock group, Paramore, including the first single from the album, “Decode.”  The song is included in the credits of the film and Paramore’s lead singer, Hayley Williams, wrote the song specifically for inclusion on the soundtrack.  “Decode” tells of the tension and confusion in Bella and Edward’s relationship, but it is not overt and can represent the tension and confusion that many relationships go through.  The lead track on the album is “Supermassive Black Hole” by British rock band, Muse.  As the music for the “vampire baseball” sequence in Twilight, it is one of the most recognizable songs for fans and has an R&B feel to it blended with alternative guitar rhythms.  The soundtrack also has the debut from Robert Pattinson, “Never Think,” which is an acoustic guitar-driven song about a toxic relationship between a girl who is completely in love and a guy that believes she will be better off without him.  Thanks to the high quality of songs on the album, it was nominated for a Grammy in 2010 and has become extremely popular.

Critical Evaluation

The soundtrack has a tone that perfectly matches that of the movie, including a few slow, romantic songs and some up-tempo alternative rock songs, as well.  Each of the songs appear somewhere during the film or in the end credits, giving fans of the film reason to buy the album and go back to favorite scenes by simply listening to the songs.  The combination of commercially successful bands such as Paramore and Linkin Park with other lesser-known bands (at least to me) was perfect.  My interest in hearing new songs by Paramore and Linkin Park brought me to the album and the introduction to new bands was an added benefit.  As a fan of the novels and films, I am one of those people that listen to the songs and remember back to the emotions of the scenes they played in.  One of my favorite songs is “Flightless Bird, American Mouth” by Iron & Wine, an artist I did not know of until listening to this album.  The dreamy folk rock song is played during the prom scene of the film and it just has a simple, beautiful melody.  Overall, the use of alternative and pop rock throughout the soundtrack reflects what many teens are listening to and the combination of edgy and romantic songs mirror the tone of the film.  While many of the album sales can be attributed to the success of the film, I believe that the album has a number of quality songs to make it stand on its own.

Reader's Annotation

The soundtrack for the vampire-romance film, Twilight, gives listeners a collection up-tempo, rocking songs, while also instilling a good amount of soft songs to sway to in the mix.

Information About the Producer

Alexandra Patsavas was born in Chicago, Illinois. Although under the influence of parents with a musical taste ranging from rock to opera, Patsavas wanted to study politics until her high school years when she developed an interest in music, attending rock concerts and buying LPs.  She enrolled in the University of Illinois but dropped out during her junior year.

She has worked in the music department of over sixty different films and television series. From there she joined the BMI music agency, then worked on over fifty Roger Corman B-movies, made-for-television movies and other films, until in 1999 she finally broke into television, with her own music company Chop Shop Music Supervision, on the series Roswell and began to work primarily on TV series, including Fastlane, Boston Public, Tru Calling, 1-800-Missing and Criminal Minds. In 2007 alone, she covered dozens of episodes of the series Without a Trace, Shark, Rescue Me and Mad Men, although her most notable work has been on the series The O.C., Grey's Anatomy and its spin-off Private Practice, Supernatural, Chuck and Gossip Girl.  (information retrieved from Patsavas’ Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alexandra_Patsavas)

Genre

Soundtrack/Pop Rock/Alternative Rock

Curriculum Ties

N/A

Booktalking Ideas

1. Focus on the connection fans make between the music and film.

2. Discuss the use of alternative and pop rock on the soundtrack.

3. Talk about the importance of music to a film’s tone.

Reading Level/Interest Age

13+

Challenge Issues

I do not anticipate any challenges for this album.

However, should challenges arise, librarians should become familiar with the material and its content.  Turn to reviews on Amazon.com, as well as reviews from teens that have listened to the CD.  Also, it is beneficial for librarians to present reasons backed by the ALA in support of intellectual freedom.  As stated in the Library Bill of Rights:

I. Books and other library resources should be provided for the interest, information, and enlightenment of all people of the community the library serves. Materials should not be excluded because of the origin, background, or views of those contributing to their creation.

II. Libraries should provide materials and information presenting all points of view on current and historical issues. Materials should not be proscribed or removed because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval.

III. Libraries should challenge censorship in the fulfillment of their responsibility to provide information and enlightenment.

Why Include CD in Selection? 

The soundtrack includes a number of bands popular with teens, including Paramore and Linkin Park, and it brought other bands such as Muse more into the mainstream.

25. Speak Now by Taylor Swift

Speak Now by Taylor Swift

Big Machine Records
Produced by Taylor Swift and Nathan Chapman

Released October 25, 2010

Number of Tracks: 14

Summary

Taylor Swift’s third studio album, Speak Now, was released on October 25, 2010 to generally positive reviews from critics.  The album continues in the country pop style that has made Taylor Swift popular.  She wrote all of the songs on the album, as well as coproduced the album alongside Nathan Chapman.  As the first single released off of the album, “Mine” is an up-tempo song that tells about the challenges that come along with love and the ability of a true love to overcome one’s pessimistic outlook on relationships.  The second single, “Back to December,” is a ballad in which Swift apologizes to a former boyfriend for treating him badly and wishes that she had realized sooner what she had.  Her third and most recent single, “Mean,” is the most traditionally country sounding song on the album with a strong bluegrass influence, especially with the use of the banjo and fiddle.  The song fires back at the critics and bullies she has faced throughout her life, asserting that she will become successful and they will only ever be mean.  As with the title track, “Speak Now,” each song represents a confession to a different person, covering feelings of love, revenge, regret, heartbreak, and fear of growing up.

Critical Evaluation

At only 21-years-old, Taylor Swift has released three successful albums and Speak Now is the most mature, reflecting her own shift from a teenager to an adult.  For teens, Swift is more than a singer and songwriter—she is one of them.  Whereas other teen acts have gained success with others writing and producing their songs, Swift has achieved success by writing and producing her own material.  Because the majority of songwriters are no longer teenagers, Swift’s songwriting gives her a deeper connection to other teens and young adults, writing about first love and loss from the experience of someone who has just gone through it.  Also, because Swift writes her own songs, and a large majority is about ex-boyfriends, her public breakups are reflected in Speak Now.  For instance, the song, “Better than Revenge,” tells about an actress stealing her boyfriend and fans have connected this to Swift’s breakup with Joe Jonas and the speed with which he started a new relationship with Camilla Belle.  Even though Swift does not usually comment on the ex-boyfriends in her songs, fans are given a glimpse into the relationship and may feel a deeper connection to her.  The songs on the album are all extremely catchy and I bet that any one of them would be a commercial success.  My favorite is the slow ballad, “Last Kiss,” about a breakup that Swift did not see coming and she cannot imagine living without the guy.  The lyric, “All that I know if I don’t know/How to be something you miss,” particularly struck me as an honest thought that any girl just experiencing a breakup could feel.  In summary, the album provides a wealth of emotions that teens can relate to, with one song showing Swift’s vulnerability and then the next showing her strength and confidence.

Reader's Annotation

Taylor Swift’s third album, Speak Now, stands out as her most mature so far, including songs about love and loss, as well as strength and confidence, all in a collection of catchy songs.

Information About the Artist

Taylor Swift's debut record made her a queen in the country world, but 2008's Fearless positioned her as the year's biggest star of any genre. The sophomore album went gold during its first week of release; combined with the sales of its predecessor, it also made Swift the highest-grossing artist of 2008. The accolades increased in 2009, when Fearless went multi-platinum and took home two ACM awards, five American Music Awards, five CMAs, two CMTs, and a controversial trophy at the MTV Video Music Awards (Kanye West infamously stormed the stage during Swift's acceptance speech to throw his support to Beyoncé, claiming she deserved the award instead).

Meanwhile, "You Belong with Me" peaked at number two on the pop charts, officially cementing Swift's status as a crossover artist. By the time 2009 drew to a close, Fearless had sold nearly six million copies in America alone, making it the year's best-selling album.  Swift then focused her attention on wrapping up her third album, Speak Now, which she'd written entirely on her own throughout the two previous years. (information retrieved from artist’s biography on CMT.com: http://www.cmt.com/artists/az/swift__taylor/bio.jhtml)

Genre

Country/Pop

Curriculum Ties

N/A

Booktalking Ideas

1. Focus on Swift’s songwriting and producing credits.

2. Discuss the connection between Swift’s public persona and her music.

3. Identify the theme of speaking your mind in the songs on the album.

4. Connect Swift’s popularity among teens with the experiences portrayed in her songs.

Reading Level/Interest Age

The album is suitable for all ages, but those most interested would be ages 12 and up.

Challenge Issues

I do not anticipate any challenges for this album.

However, should challenges arise, librarians should become familiar with the material and its content.  Turn to reviews on Amazon.com, as well as reviews from teens that have listened to the CD.  Also, it is beneficial for librarians to present reasons backed by the ALA in support of intellectual freedom.  As stated in the Library Bill of Rights:

I. Books and other library resources should be provided for the interest, information, and enlightenment of all people of the community the library serves. Materials should not be excluded because of the origin, background, or views of those contributing to their creation.

II. Libraries should provide materials and information presenting all points of view on current and historical issues. Materials should not be proscribed or removed because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval.

III. Libraries should challenge censorship in the fulfillment of their responsibility to provide information and enlightenment.

Why Include CD in Selection? 

Taylor Swift is an extremely popular artist right now and I have enjoyed this album.

24. NoveList Database

NoveList Database

Accessed via Los Angeles Public Library Databases

Summary

NoveList is a database powered by EBSCOhost that provides users with access to information on a multitude of novels for any age.  The database is a reader’s advisory tool, allowing readers to find books that may interest them and educators to locate book discussion guides and book lists.  The home page features a basic search with the option to search by author, title, or series.   Below the search bar, the site lists a group of best-selling books, as well as a recommended reading list of novels similar to the best sellers.  On the left side of the page, the database includes more recommended reading lists.  Users can select either adult, teen, ages 9-12, or ages 0-8, select one of the available genres, and then one of the subgenres for reading lists tailored to that audience.  At the top of the page, users can also browse through alphabetical lists of authors, series, and subjects.  The advanced search option gives users the option to limit their searches by published date, grade level, author’s gender and nationality, and whether the novel is award-winning, among others.  When users select a book, the information page includes a short description of the novel, genre, pace, tone, writing style, grade level, subject headings, and reviews.  Overall, the database gives users access to information on a wide range of novels.

Critical Evaluation

NoveList is a useful tool for readers of all ages, but with the ability to limit the age range to teens, it allows young adults to limit results to those novels directed toward a teen audience.  Considering the many different subgenres within young adult literature, the ability to find read-alikes for novels, as well as authors, helps teens discover new books that relate to their interests.  This feature will especially appeal to reluctant readers because it will allow them to expand their reading knowledge by suggesting books with specific writing styles or on topics in which they are interested.  Also, in contrast to other book search engines, the database gives users the option to search by more than just author, title, genre, or subject; they can also search by storyline, pace, tone, writing style, or location.  Because teens have a strong interest in novels that reflect their own lives and interests, the addition of these limits increase the likelihood that they will find books matching these interests.  In addition to helping teens discover new books, the database would also be useful for librarians and educators working with teens, giving them examples of booktalks and book discussions, as well as reviews from publications such as Library JournalPublishers Weekly.  In total, the database will appeal to teens looking for novels that are similar to those they already love, as well as teens that want to branch out into other genres, but want to research what books to read. and

Reader's Annotation

NoveList is a database that allows users to search for information on a collection of novels.  Readers of all ages will especially appreciate the recommended reading lists in a plethora of genres.

Information About the Company

EBSCOhost databases and discovery technologies are the most-used, premium online information resources for tens of thousands of institutions worldwide, representing millions of end-users.

EBSCO has served the library industry for more than 60 years. By placing customers at the core of our business, they have tapped their ingenuity to assist in developing the high quality products and services for which EBSCO is known. EBSCO is the only company to provide customers with an integrated service that combines reference databases, subscription management, online journals, books, linking services and A-to-Z solutions. Always at the leading edge, they continue to work to identify new challenges and combine technology with data to meet the information needs of customers worldwide. (information retrieved from EBSCO’s website: http://www.ebscohost.com)

Genre

N/A

Curriculum Ties

English

Booktalking Ideas

N/A

Reading Level/Interest Age

All ages

Challenge Issues

N/A

Why Include Database in Selection? 

Always looking for a new book to read, the read-alikes function of this database appealed to me.

23. CollegeSource Online

CollegeSource Online

Accessed via Los Angeles Public Library Databases

Summary

CollegeSource Online (CSO) is a database established by CollegeSource, Inc. that allows users to search for information about any college.  Students have free access to the database.  The website details that it provides access to “58,482 digital college catalogs, institution profiles, transcript keys, and other critical resources.”  Rated as the “Electronic Resource of the Month” for October 2009 by the Los Angeles Public Library, the CSO basic search gives users the option to look for colleges within the United States, outside of the country, or all schools.  The advanced search includes further limitations, including listing colleges alphabetically or searching by country, by specific criteria, or by geographic location.  Once users find a college of interest, the listing has a selection of icons next to it: a PDF of the school catalog, transcript key, profile, website, a map of the school’s location through Google Maps, and cross reference.  Not all of the icons are listed for every school, but there are quite a few locations that have most of the icons.  The database also has a list of resources, such as links for assessment testing and preparation, associations of education and library professionals, career resources, college guides and planning, financial aid resources, and state departments of education.

Critical Evaluation

The database provides a lot of information for people debating what colleges to send applications.  It has a simple and straightforward layout, making it extremely user-friendly.  The main page gives users the option to search for a college by name, giving those who already have an idea of what colleges they want to research an easy way to get the information.  I liked the options in the advanced search section, especially the criteria search that includes limitations such as enrollment range and tuition range among the more traditional options of state and degree offerings.  When there are multiple search results, I found the profile icon particularly useful because it lists several details about the location on one page, such as the contact information, degree levels, tuition and fees, financial aid programs, and calendar system, among others.  This provides users the opportunity to get a quick feel for the school and decide whether they want to invest more time researching it.  Especially considering the tremendous amount of colleges that may be found, the profile icon is a useful tool.  The addition of the resources section is an asset to the website because it gives potential college applicants one website to turn to for their college search needs.  Overall, the database is helpful for people looking to go to college and want to find out as much information about several different schools as they can.

Reader's Annotation

CollegeSource Online provides users information about colleges and universities around the world, as well as resources for college and career preparation.

Information About the Company

CollegeSource, Inc. is a small but dynamic company with a mission to serve institutions of higher education and the students who use education to become more employable, engaged citizens. Their current focus is college catalog and institution research tools, primarily in the area of transfer credit evaluation. CollegeSource, Inc. is about making the work of researching college catalogs faster, easier, and cheaper. The result is tremendous time savings for administrators and a better experience for transfer students.

As a team, they state that their mission is to:

• Exceed customer expectations
• Provide high quality, affordable products and services
• Foster an environment of integrity, trust, confidence,
  and long term relationships
• Inspire individual excellence and development
• Acknowledge individual and collective achievement
• Meet the changing needs of all stakeholders

 (information retrieved from CollegeSource, Inc.’s website: http://www.collegesource.com/who_we_are.asp)

Genre

N/A

Curriculum Ties

This database could be useful in a life skills or college preparatory class.

Booktalking Ideas

N/A

Reading Level/Interest Age

Although all ages can access the site, high school students and individuals looking to go back to college will be interested in the database.

Challenge Issues

N/A

Why Include Database in Selection? 

In looking through the databases provided by the Los Angeles Public Library website, CSO stood out as especially useful for older teens.

22. Thrasher Magazine

Thrasher Magazine

Editor-in-chief Jake Phelps

High Speed Productions, Inc.; San Francisco, CA

May 2011: Issue 370

208 p.

Summary

Thrasher is a magazine dedicated to the topic of skateboarding, directed toward a largely male audience.  Throughout the magazine, the reader sees picture after picture of skateboarders and various skate tricks, many times photographed step-by-step.  There is also a collection of several different interviews with skateboarders for readers to browse.  The magazine features advertisements for practically anything skateboard related, from shoes to board parts to clothing; many of the advertisements highlight a professional skateboarder endorsed by the brand.  There is even an index toward the back of the magazine that lists skate shops throughout the country, broken down by state.  Even though skateboarding is obviously the main focus, the magazine also features a section of articles about music, including interviews with bands.  The music seems to be primarily rock and punk, likely the most popular music amongst skaters.  In sum, the magazine caters to an older teenage male population that identify with skater culture.

Critical Evaluation

Right from the cover, Thrasher gives the reader a sense of the tone of the magazine.  On the cover, a skateboarder hovers in the air, just having launched off of a staircase handrail.  The title, Thrasher, is written in bright yellow, but it is the blues and grays of the cement that draws the reader’s attention.  Without knowing how well the skater is going to land, it forces the reader to imagine not only the landing, but also the way in which the skater got in the air in the first place.  This focus on the tricks is mimicked throughout the magazine, placing a much greater emphasis on the images than on the words in the articles.  The pictures each stick with a similar color palette of grays and blues, serving to give the magazine a gritty feeling that resembles the skate parks and streets where skaters spend their time trying out new tricks.  Having very little knowledge of the skater culture (aside from a couple of movies about its beginning), I was most drawn to the photographs that featured skaters attempting tricks in a step-by-step sequence.  These sequences give skaters ideas for tricks to try and how to go about them, helping to improve their skills.  Overall, Thrasher gives teen skaters a magazine to turn to for practically anything they would want to read about skating, as well as advice on where to shop for the best skating apparel and supplies.

Reader's Annotation

Thrasher provides a thorough look inside the skating world, incorporating interviews with skaters, skateboard photography, and articles on music trends that will interest those interested in skater culture.

 

Information About the Founder

Founder of Thrasher, Fausto Vitello was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, but his family left when he was 9 to escape the political terror of the Revolución Libertadora.  His family moved to San Francisco, in the U.S. state of California, and he was raised on Frederick Street in the Haight Ashbury neighborhood.  In the late 1970s skateboarding's popularity was waning.  Vitello and business partner Eric Swenson along with Richard Novak and Jay Shuirman who owned Santa Cruz Skateboards saw an opportunity to work together, subsequently founding Independent Truck Company.  Independent Trucks quickly became an industry leader and the group saw the opportunity to expand and capitalize upon the rediscovery of skateboarding in America.

In 1981, Vitello co-Founded Thrasher Magazine.  The photos and articles brought the latest tricks, fashions, and gear to the attention of the youth of America, contributing to rise of the skateboard culture in America.  The advertisements also helped push the success of Independent Trucks, which was quickly becoming one of the largest names in skateboarding.  While many were still dismissing skateboarding as a fad, Thrasher helped establish it as a dominant subculture that has evolved into the billion dollar industry it is today.  (information from founder’s Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fausto_Vitello)

Genre

Young Adult – Skateboarding

Curriculum Ties

N/A

Booktalking Ideas

1. Discuss the focus on skateboard photography.

2. Identify popular skateboarders interviewed in the issue.

3. Focus on the music section of the magazine.

4. Point out the ways the magazine appeals to teen skaters.

Reading Level/Interest Age

15+

Challenge Issues

There is some profanity in the magazine, as well as a couple mentions of drug use and sexual imagery.

When confronted with complaints about this magazine, librarians should become familiar with the material and its content.  Turn to reviews listed on Amazon.com, as well as reviews from teens that have read the magazine.  Also, it is beneficial for librarians to present reasons backed by the ALA in support of intellectual freedom.  As stated in the Library Bill of Rights:

I. Books and other library resources should be provided for the interest, information, and enlightenment of all people of the community the library serves. Materials should not be excluded because of the origin, background, or views of those contributing to their creation.

II. Libraries should provide materials and information presenting all points of view on current and historical issues. Materials should not be proscribed or removed because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval.

III. Libraries should challenge censorship in the fulfillment of their responsibility to provide information and enlightenment.

Why Include Magazine in Selection? 

After reviewing a magazine directed toward teen girls, I wanted to include one that focused on an interest of teen boys and the title and cover of this one intrigued me.

21. Teen Vogue Magazine

Teen Vogue Magazine

Editor-in-chief Amy Astley

May 2011

144 p.

Summary

Teen Vogue features articles on celebrities, fashion, entertainment, and teen issues.  After browsing through 11 pages of advertisements and perfume samples, the reader finally comes to the table of contents, getting a quick overview of what she is to expect as she turns the pages.  Five more pages of ads separate the first page of the table of contents from the second.  The reader doesn’t reach a substantial article until page 34—a piece titled “Cover Look” that lets the reader know what makeup tools were used on this month’s cover girl, Jennifer Lawrence.  The magazine features three blogging columns, focusing on style, fashion, and music that specifically cater to teens’ interests.  Multiple articles discuss celebrity fashion, including the eco-friendly choices of Stella McCartney and Natalie Portman.  Even though the majority of the magazine focuses on models and celebrities, there is a feature article that discusses social sabotage, in which teens talk about the ways that friends have turned on them.  Overall, the magazine is mostly aimed toward teen girls, especially those interested in fashion.

Critical Evaluation

When first picking up Teen Vogue, I noticed the similarities between it and its parent magazine—tons of advertisements and the remnants of some vague scent created from the handful of perfume samples hidden inside.   Although the magazine cover resembles those of others for teen girls, the magazine’s size makes it stand out.  More compact than the rest—almost book-sized—Teen Vogue looks like a magazine that would be easy to carry around in a purse, perhaps adding to its appeal to readers.  However, just like with Vogue, the ads can get to be a bit too much, making it difficult to distinguish where the magazine begins.  On the other hand, the fashion ads may appeal to teens that are interested in the newest designer trends and, therefore, may also add to the appeal.  When first spotting the magazine on the shelf, the bright colors make it visually pleasing, likely because of the theme of spring.  This particular issue features a music special, introducing teens to the newest, hottest musicians out there and keeping up with music trends.  While the majority of the magazine appears more entertainment and fashion-driven, the inclusion of an article on teen issues provides teen girls with a place to see themselves in stories that may represent similar problems to their own.  Of all of the articles, there are very few that consist of more than a few paragraphs, reflecting teens’ need for magazines to get to the point and attract their attention from the beginning.  In total, Teen Vogue looks to provide teen girls with advice on several different topics, while also including the gorgeous pictures of fashion for which Vogue has become so famous.

Reader's Annotation

Teen Vogue covers topics ranging from music to fashion to teen issues, all in a compact, shiny package.

Information About the Editor

Amy Astley is the editor-in-chief of Teen Vogue, which launched in January 2003. She was named to edit the new magazine in June 2002 by Anna Wintour, editor-in-chief of Vogue and editorial director of Teen Vogue.  A graduate of East Lansing High School, Astley holds a B.A. in English Literature from the Honors College of Michigan State University. She lives in Manhattan with her husband and their two children.

While Astley was heading up Teen Vogue, the American Society of Magazine Editors nominated Teen Vogue for a 2003 General Excellence Award in the 250,000-500,000 circulation category. In addition, Teen Vogue was named Adweek magazine's 2004 Startup of the Year. Teen Vogue's circulation rate base increased to 900,000 with the October 2006 issue from its previous level of 850,000.  (information from editor’s Wikipedia entry: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amy_Astley)

Genre

Young Adult - Fashion/Celebrity/Music/Beauty/Teen Issues

Curriculum Ties

N/A

Booktalking Ideas

1. Focus on the use of fashion in appealing to teen girls.

2. Identify the diversity of topics included in the magazine.

3. Discuss the importance of music in the issue.

4. Tell about the potential conflicts caused by the overwhelming amount of ads.

Reading Level/Interest Age

13+

Challenge Issues

I cannot think of any potential challenges related to this magazine.

However, when confronted with complaints about this magazine, librarians should become familiar with the material and its content.  Turn to reviews listed on Amazon.com, as well as reviews from teens that have read the magazine.  Also, it is beneficial for librarians to present reasons backed by the ALA in support of intellectual freedom.  As stated in the Library Bill of Rights:

I. Books and other library resources should be provided for the interest, information, and enlightenment of all people of the community the library serves. Materials should not be excluded because of the origin, background, or views of those contributing to their creation.

II. Libraries should provide materials and information presenting all points of view on current and historical issues. Materials should not be proscribed or removed because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval.

III. Libraries should challenge censorship in the fulfillment of their responsibility to provide information and enlightenment.

Why Include Magazine in Selection? 

I wanted to include a number of magazines in my collection and this one caught my eye.

20. Whale Talk by Chris Crutcher

Whale Talk by Chris Crutcher

ISBN: 0-688-18019-1

Greenwillow Books, New York, 2001

220 p.

Plot Summary

Adopted at the age of two, TJ Jones stands out in the small town of Cutter, Washington because of his mixed race.  Coupled with his rejection of school athletics in spite of his natural talent for it, TJ faces bullying on a daily basis at Cutter High School, particularly from Mike Barbour, one of the stars on the football team.  Barbour torments anyone different from himself, including Chris Coughlin, who suffered brain damage from being abused at an early age and recently experienced the death of his brother.   When one of TJ’s teachers, Mr. Simet, comes to TJ looking to start a swim team, TJ takes the opportunity to recruit others who don’t fit within the typical mold of Cutter’s athletes and get them to earn letter jackets, something that is regarded highly at school.  Mike Barbour and the other athletes, along with Coach Benson, are offended by the potential for these misfits to letter in the sport.  However, once the Cutter All Night Mermen begin practicing and traveling to meets, they form a bond that develops into something more powerful than the idea of wearing a letter jacket can give.

Critical Evaluation

Chris Crutcher has an amazing ability to transfer reality into the pages of his novels.  With Whale Talk, topics such as abuse, bullying, death, and discrimination are presented without sugarcoating them for the teen audience.  Crutcher aims to give teens a story that includes real issues that teens are facing around the world, no matter how messy they may be.  The important thing is that teens are able to see themselves in the work and feel that the author is speaking to them.  In addition, the characters have more depth than is revealed when the reader first encounters them.  There is a recurring theme of not judging people by how they look throughout the novel.  TJ’s father is a perfect example of this; in describing him, TJ says, “Scary looking as he is, children flock around my father as if he were created by Walt Disney” (p. 60).  While his appearance may make people keep their distance, the man inside is gentle and kind.  This theme also carries over to each of the members of the swim team.  As they learn more and more about each other, they begin to see past the preconceptions and accept each other for their differences.  Even with the bullies of the novel, TJ’s father pushes TJ to see the reasons for their actions and recognize that they got that way because that is what they were taught.  While he doesn’t excuse their violent acts, he gives TJ some perspective as to their thought processes.  Crutcher’s ability to give humanity even to the most despicable of characters makes him a very unique author in my eyes.

Reader's Annotation

Cutter High School puts athletes above all other students, ignoring the bullying that goes on in the hallways.  When TJ Jones decides to recruit some of the school misfits for the newly formed swim team, he hopes to give them the respect and dignity they deserve.

Information About the Author

Chris Crutcher is the author of thirteen books -- ten novels, two short story collections and an autobiography.  Prior to his work as an author, he taught school in Washington and California and acted as director of an Oakland alternative school for nearly a decade.  That academic history coupled with 25 years as a child and family therapist specializing in abuse and neglect has infused his literary work with realism and emotional heft.  His signature blend of tragedy and comedy have made him a favorite with teen and adult readers. 

In defending his novel, Whale Talk, Chris Crutcher wrote, “My father was a World War II B-17 pilot who when he was the same age as I was when I graduated college, had flown 35.  Bombing missions over Germany; eleven before he came back with all his engines.  He was a patriot and a vocal “conservative.”  If you were to run as a “conservative” in our county for any office from Dog Catcher to President of the United States, my dad was your county campaign guy.  He was also on the school board during all my, and my sibling’s, years in public school, and he’d have run a nail through his eye before allowing a book to be censored.  He was a consummate believer in the Constitution he thought he went to war to defend.  He believed the idea of “separation of church and state,” was a concept conceived to protect the church and the state.  My father’s and my politics were very different, but we certainly agreed on that point.” (quote retrieved from author’s website: http://www.chriscrutcher.com/delaware-2009.html)

Genre

Young Adult – Realistic/Sports

Curriculum Ties

English - Reading Comprehension and Literary Response and Analysis

Booktalking Ideas

1. Compare the coaching styles of Coach Benson and Coach Simet

2. Discuss the effects the accident has on TJ’s father

3. Focus on the relationship between TJ and Carly

4. Address the environment that forms in the team bus

Reading Level/Interest Age

14+

Challenge Issues

The novel has many potential challenge issues, including use of profanity and racial slurs, as well as discussions of abuse, bullying, and sexual situations.

When confronted with complaints about this novel, librarians should become familiar with the material and its content.  Turn to reviews from publications such as Publisher’s Weekly, School Library Journal, and Booklist, as well as reviews from teens that have read it.  Also, it is beneficial for librarians to present reasons backed by the ALA in support of intellectual freedom.  As stated in the Library Bill of Rights:

I. Books and other library resources should be provided for the interest, information, and enlightenment of all people of the community the library serves. Materials should not be excluded because of the origin, background, or views of those contributing to their creation.

II. Libraries should provide materials and information presenting all points of view on current and historical issues. Materials should not be proscribed or removed because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval.

III. Libraries should challenge censorship in the fulfillment of their responsibility to provide information and enlightenment.

Why Include Book in Selection? 

Having read Deadline by Chris Crutcher, I wanted to read another of his novels.

19. Whip It (Feature Film)

Whip It (Feature Film)

2009

Directed by Drew Barrymore

Fox Searchlight Pictures

Total running time: 111 minutes

Plot Summary

In the small town of Bodeen, Texas, Bliss Cavendar and her best friend, Pash, stand out in the crowd of beauty pageant girls and high school football players.  Although Pash is sure of her goal of attending an Ivy League school, Bliss is stuck in limbo, unsure of what she wants.  That all changes when her mother takes her into Austin to shop for clothes and Bliss witnesses three roller derby girls skate into the store to drop off flyers for their upcoming game.  After grabbing a flyer, Bliss convinces Pash to go with her to the game featuring the Holy Rollers versus the Hurl Scouts.  Inspired by the strength of the women playing, Bliss tells one of the Hurl Scouts, Maggie Mayhem, that they are her new heroes.  Maggie tells her about the tryouts, insisting, “Be your own hero.”  Lying about her age to meet the age requirement of 21, Bliss goes back to Austin to tryout and lands herself a spot on the team, as well as the nickname Babe Ruthless—a name she needs to learn to live up to. 

Critical Evaluation

Whip It tells the story of a teenage girl finding something she is passionate about in an otherwise dull existence and the effects that her passion has on the rest of her life.  When Bliss first watches a Roller Derby match, she is inspired by the physical and emotional toughness of the women, something completely different from the prim and proper beauty pageant contestants in her small town.  As she gets further into the season, Roller Derby becomes so much more than a hobby as it starts Bliss on her coming-of-age journey.  Although she has always felt different from the girl her mother expects her to be, it isn’t until she spends time with her teammates and learns to be physically tough that she begins to stand up for herself.

My favorite part of the film is the likability of Bliss’ character.  Right from the start of the film when Bliss walks onto the pageant stage with blue hair, I loved her quiet, but rebellious spirit.  Of course, part of this stems from my love for Ellen Page as an actress and for her inherent quirkiness.  She is perfect in the role of Bliss Cavendar and I could not help but root for her both on and off the Derby track.

Reader's Annotation

Feeling out of place in her small Texas town, Bliss learns about the Roller Derby world in Austin and makes it her goal to be a Derby girl.

Information About the Director

Barrymore made her feature film debut at the age of five in the science fiction thriller Altered States. However, it was her scene-stealing performance as the precocious Gertie in Steven Spielberg’s 1982 blockbuster E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial that catapulted the young actress to stardom. She went on to star in the thriller Firestarter and the comedy Irreconcilable Differences, for which she earned a Golden Globe nomination for Best Supporting Actress.

Behind the camera, she is also enjoying success as a producer under her own Flower Films banner, with such hits as Never Been Kissed, Charile’s Angels and 50 First Dates.  In 2009, she directed her first feature film, Whip It. (information from the director’s website: http://www.drewbarrymore.com/about.html)

Genre

Teen Dramedy

Curriculum Ties

N/A

Booktalking Ideas

1. Compare the female figures Bliss meets in Bodeen to those in the Roller Derby.

2. Talk about Bliss’ experience when first going to the Roller Derby.

3. Discuss the relationship between Bliss and Pash.

4. Focus on the meaning behind Bliss’ Derby name, Babe Ruthless.

Reading Level/Interest Age

13+

Challenge Issues

The film is rated PG-13 for some sexual situations and teen drinking.

When confronted with complaints about this film, librarians should become familiar with the material and its content.  Turn to reviews listed on Amazon.com, as well as reviews from teens that have seen the film.  Also, it is beneficial for librarians to present reasons backed by the ALA in support of intellectual freedom.  As stated in the Library Bill of Rights:

I. Books and other library resources should be provided for the interest, information, and enlightenment of all people of the community the library serves. Materials should not be excluded because of the origin, background, or views of those contributing to their creation.

II. Libraries should provide materials and information presenting all points of view on current and historical issues. Materials should not be proscribed or removed because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval.

III. Libraries should challenge censorship in the fulfillment of their responsibility to provide information and enlightenment.

Why Include Film in Selection? 

I have been a fan of Ellen Page since I first saw her in Juno and the combination between her and Drew Barrymore intrigued me.