by Matt de la Pena
Published: 2010 Publisher: Ember
Paperback: 368 pages ISBN: 0385736703
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Recommended for children ages 14+ and grades 9-12.
Plot Summary:
This book tells the story of Miguel - a young teen sent to juvi for a crime the reader is not privy of. The judge sentences Miguel to one year in a group home and tells him he must write in a journal while he is there. When he gets to the group home Miguel meets two other boys living there, Mong and Rondell. The three boys decide to run away together and end up on an epic trip trying to reach Mexico. This story follows the journey these three boys go on as Miguel attempts to forgive himself and, in turn, learns more about himself and the other boys he ever imagined possible.
Evaluation:
This is a truly moving book. The three protagonists touch the reader in unexpected and unforgettable ways. While the characters are somewhat of caricatures - one is Black, one is Asian, and one is Latino- this in itself could lead to excellent analysis and discussion. The friendship these boys form is real and deep and when the reader learns about all their backgrounds and the hardships they have faced, it is impossible to not bond and connect with them. All readers (even low engagement) will be instantly hooked. The book is funny, sad, and heartbreaking. It is a story that will stay with the reader for a very long time.
Content Area:
English
Content Area Standards for English:
CA Common Core State Standards
CCSS Grade 9/10 Reading Standard for Literature:
Analyze how complex characters (e.g. those with conflicting or multiple motivations) develop over the course of a text, interact with other characters, and advance the plot or develop the theme.
CA English Language Arts Standards
CA English Language Arts Standard Grade 9/10 Reading Comprehension:
2.3 Generate relevant questions about readings on issues that can be researched.
Links:
Author's Website
Book Review on Youtube
Reader's Guide to All De la Pena's Books
No comments:
Post a Comment