John Lennon: All I want is the Truth by Elizabeth Partridge

Partridge, E. (2005). John Lennon: All I Want is the Truth. New York, NY: Viking.

The photographic biography book “John Lennon: All I want is the Truth” by Elizabeth Partridge was written to inform the readers about the legendary life that John Lennon led. The author writes this book to provide a grand amount of factual information, real quotes, and interviews from John Lennon. The book begins with an introduction with John and Yoko (his wife) being huge activists which we later learn about in the book. The chapters from then on begin with John as a young boy, his rebellious years as a teen, John collaborating and making music, and how he was closer to his aunt and uncle than with his own mother. Elizabeth continues to write on how the group got together little at a time to become what is famously known as the “Beatles”, and their ups and downs as a band. In a part of the book the author give us details on how John was also another star who battled with drug usage. The biography ends with the death of John Lennon being assassinated by Mark Chapman and the legacy he leaves behind. The book includes source notes, bibliography, further reading list, Beatles books, an index, acknowledgments, and permissions Elizabeth was granted to include into the book. This book would be a great resource for students working on research projects, creating bibliographies on famous musicians, even for students who simply just love reading and learning about the lives of famous people just like John H. Ritter describes in “Making the Match”.

The Hanged Man by Frances Lia Block

Block, F. L. (1994). The Hanged Man. New York: HarperCollins. 

The book “The Hanged man” by Francesca Lia Block is about a young girl named “Laurel” who is trying to find herself while she is struggling to cope with fear of disease, lies, drugs, an eating disorder, secrets, and love. Laurel as a young girl has been sexually molested by her father and keeps it a secret from everyone even after his death. Not only does she struggle to hide that she was molested, but she also struggles with anorexia and will not eat much no matter who encourages her to eat. Her mother is lost as well after her father’s death and isn’t much of a character in the book, up until the end when Laurel finally opens up about her father’s actions. After Laurel lets go of her secret she can finally grow as a person, and be set free to live life without guilt. She also begins to have a positive outlook on the future. This book is recommended for the audience of ages 12 and up. Because of the content this book contains, I wouldn’t recommend it so much to middle school students. I could see high school teachers using this kind of book to show examples of imagery, mythology, and poetry. The book “Making the Match” explains that poetry is a great form of literature for teens which seems to be voted least favorite, but we can change that by using poetry more effectively with our students and identify topics that the reader is familiar or interested in.

A Step from Heaven By An Na

An, N. (2001). A step from heaven. Asheville, NC: Front Street.

A Step from Heaven is about an Asian family that migrates from Korea to San Diego, California in hopes for a better life. When Young Ju finds out that her family is moving to "Mi Gook" which to her means "heaven", she is thrilled and later realizes that "Mi Gook" is America. Throughout the story, Young Ju and her family struggle to learn English and have difficulties getting accustomed to their new location. Within time, "Apa" which is Young Ju's father, begins to show signs of aggression, excessive drinking, and also stops attending his jobs. Young Ju hides when she hears her father “scream” and later finds out that he abuses her mom as well. The drinking not only gets worse, but he also abuses Yung Ju when he finds out that she disobeyed his orders. Yung Ju builds the courage to dial 911, which is one of the best decisions that she will make to change their lives forever. He is taken away for a night, and deserts the family as he is released the very next day. Times continue to be difficult for them, and Young Ju's mother asks her if she'd like to move back to Korea. Young Ju declines the offer and is determined to survive in America. The family works together without Apa, they make ends meet, and learn to live peacefully in America. Other books that are similar to “A Step from Heaven” are Born Confused, Kira-Kira, and Girl in Translation. In reference to “Making the Match”, this book would definitely help support students who are new to our complex country and help them relate to Young Ju in this remarkable story "A Step from Heaven".     

Sammy and Juliana in Hollywood

Sáenz, B. A. (2004). Sammy & Juliana in Hollywood. El Paso, TX: Cinco Puntos Press.

Sammy and Juliana in Hollywood is about Sammy Santos who lives in New Mexico, who lives in the 60's. The story begins with the infatuation he has for Juliana and the story later explains the experiences he has to go through. In the beginning of the story, Juliana is gone, but we later learn that she never really leaves his side. Some experiences he goes through are completely different than what teens go through now, but others are very much similar. Homosexuals were treated very badly, protesters were aggressive against the war, Sammy had to work very hard to save every dime for his college education, racism, and he unfortunately loses many of the people that were important in his life. When you think finally all the deaths have stopped, he gets a call while he is at work that his dad was in a horrible accident. His father survives and Sammy goes to college. Teens can relate to Sammy because he is a boy transitioning  into a man that has to be strong regardless of all the tragedies and sacrifices he has to make for his future and for his remaining family members. This is a touching, sad, but inspiring story that should be in every library collection. It is definitely an eye opening story that shows many sides to the Mexican culture. Other books similar to this culture would be “Oscar Hijuelos” and “Parrot in the Oven”.

Looking for Alaska by John Green

Green, J. (2005). Looking for Alaska: A novel. New York: Dutton Children's Books.

Looking for Alaska is about a guy who is looking for the great “perhaps”. Miles Halter leaves his home town to move to a boarding school in Alabama called “Culver Creek”. Through his new roommate Chip also known as “Colonel”, he meets a girl by the name of “Alaska” in which he instantly falls in love with. They naturally all build a friendship by how much time they spend together by smoking cigarettes at the “smoking hole”, drinking together, and playing pranks on “The Weekend Warriors”. One night as they are preparing to do a prank on the Warriors, they get drunk and Alaska ends up confessing some real issues she has kept a secret. The boys then realize that is the reason she is unstable. No matter how unpredictable or unstable Alaska is, Miles is oblivious to any of her problems. The next night while they are drinking, Alaska receives a call and begins to cry hysterically. She then asks the guys to help her escape campus and they later find out that she died in a car accident. The two guys go through a journey trying to figure out if she committed suicide or if it was truly an accident. This book is intended for an audience in the 9th grade and above. I would recommend this title to students who have emotional issues dealing with guilt and the loss of a parent. This book could provide support for students who can identify themselves with characters from the story being around the same age, and may be going through some of the same obstacles.

The Abduction by Gordon Korman

Korman, G. (2006). The abduction. New York: Scholastic.

Aiden and Meg’s parents have been released from jail, and claim to have been framed for a crime they didn't commit. The town really does not believe that their parents are innocent and treat the family pretty unfair once they are out. The family is being harassed and the police do not seem to take action, and do the least they can to help make the family feel safe. One day while Meg and Aiden are walking home from torturous school, a van drives by slowly and Meg gets picked up by a Pest Control van. Aiden is the only one who is a witness and has certain information to track down where his sister is. Throughout the book, Meg and Aiden’s parents are worried sick and feel helpless so they advise the FBI on the situation, even though Aiden does not agree with that choice. Aiden struggles to find Meg, while Meg is being held captive. While she is in custody, the young kidnapper slips and accidentally tells her that they will not hurt her. As the story progresses, an FBI agent in disguise finally gets close to recovering Meg, but she only hurts her chances to finally being free (she hits the agent in the head, and gives him  a concussion). It ends where Meg is still wondering if she will ever be saved or free again. This book keeps you on the edge of your seat wanting to know what is going to happen next. The suspense and mystery in this book is what teens will get from reading this book! That’s what they want! They will have to read the second part to it, to find out.

The Secret Hour by Scott Westerfeld

Westerfeld, S. (2004). The secret hour. New York: Eos.

 The Secret Hour by Scott Westerfeld is a fictional novel that is about five characters that have a super power and live in the city Bixby, Oklahoma. These five teens all have the privilege to have an extra hour to themselves to roam around the city while everyone else in town is frozen in time. Everything seems fine up until the new girl named “Jessica Day” moves in from Chicago. The night creatures called “Darklings” somehow feel threatened by her presence and now need to attack or get rid of her somehow. The four characters use their power and tools to battle these creatures and try to keep her power under wraps to protect her from being harmed. Even though they are trying to protect her, Jessica is trying to figure out her own power that could help complete the gang and save them from the creatures. I would recommend this book to Science Fiction book lovers that are in the grade range of 6-10th grade. This book would greatly be appreciated by teens who love Science Fiction novels just like Dr. Lesesne stated in “Making the Match”. Teens love the fictional characters, powers, creatures and a plot that is filled with action and suspense. This would be a great hit and recommendation, especially for a book talk.

Me, All Alone, at the End of the World by M.T. Anderson

Anderson, M. T., & Hawkes, K. (2005). Me, all alone, at the end of the world. Cambridge, MA: Candlewick Press.

 This book written by M.T Anderson “Me, all alone, at the end of the world” is about a boy who lives by himself with his mule and lives carelessly with no distractions but just the woods and freedom. As he is one day enjoying his life sitting on the edge of a cliff, a man appears and tries to persuade him that he has not been living! This character builds an empire that is filled with attractions that bring in vacationers that visit throughout different times of the year. The boy begins to have fun with some boys that come often and experiences joys and games he has never played before. This vacation sight begins to take over his space and the boy that was once in solitude, has nowhere to go and be alone. He eventually says goodbye to his friends and leaves to a mountain to be in solitude once again. This book could be a great resource for a teaching students about resources, solitude, and caring for the environment. In relationships to making the match, the message being conveyed by Anderson would be a great discussion to address as a whole group.

Poop Fountain by Tom Angleberger

Angleberger, T., & Wang, J. (2007). Poop fountain! (The Qwickpick Papers). New York, NY: Harry N. Abrams.

 Lyle, Dave, and Marilla are three regular kids who come from different backgrounds, religions, families, and who have different views. One day they all manage to sit close to one another in the cafeteria and figure out that they all have one major thing in common- they all are bored on Christmas day! They decide to explore the adventures of the town’s famous “poop fountain” sewer plant. As they are discovering the “pool of poop”, Marilla’s expensive camera falls into the poop fountain. Lyle automatically dives in to help save her camera but still gets covered with stinky water poop. As the kids are preparing to close up shop, they run into a worker of the sewer plant who covers up for them and gives them a ride home. In the end, these three kid agree that this was the best time of their lives and wouldn't trade it for anything, even if they would've gotten into trouble. Dave agrees as well! This experience made them bond and create an unbreakable friendship. This book is recommended for the age group of 8 years old and above who enjoy reading about innocent and mischievous experiences that are filled with humor. Which teen wouldn't love that combination?

My friend Dahmer by Derf Backderf

D. (2012). My friend Dahmer: A graphic novel. New York: Abrams ComicArts.

 My friend Dahmer is a graphic novel that explains the information known about Jeff Dahmer, also known as a serial killer. The sections of this novel are broken down by some history on the friendship of Jeff Dahmer and Derf Backderf, a prologue, the background of Jeff, his secret life, his fan club, becoming the monster, and fade to black which gives some information on how his killings all started. The purpose of this novel is to inform society of the background and history of Jeff. The world just knows the negative facts, but Backderf provides a different perspective on this serial killer. The author supports his book by expressing the misery Jeff went through by being a social outcast, having an unstable family, along with his damaging thoughts and feelings he kept within himself that finally made him lose control. This book also provides helpful extras such as sources, notes, and the players which are the guys that were formally his “friends” if that is even a proper word for them. This graphic novel is very deep and interesting story that could be a great read and continue with a discussion on whether students find Dahmer innocent or guilty of his crimes. Yes Dahmer did commit the crimes, but he also was mentally ill and could not control the horrible thoughts and feelings. What would've happened if someone tried to help Dahmer, or tried to be his actual friend, would he still have committed those crimes?  I can see a debate coming along! 

Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher

Asher, J. (2006). Thirteen reasons why. New York: Razorbill.

Hannah is the protagonist in the story who is explaining through audiotapes the thirteen reasons why she has committed suicide. These tapes were sent from one person to the next, and so on from a list. Through the tapes, each individual listened and heard the role they took in Hannah concluding to leave this world. Hannah not only explains her reasons but also shows readers on how they can affect people negatively without even knowing it like Clay, the guy who sincerely had strong feels for her. All through the story Clay had no idea why and how he could’ve been part of the thirteen reasons. He felt even worse because he actually liked her and wished that there was something that he could’ve done to prevent the ending of her young life. Clay eventually hears all the tapes, and miserably mails it out to the next person. In the end, it is very difficult for Clay to return to school but does and gains the strength to stop and speak with Skye, in hopes to help her and prevent the same thing from happening. I believe that this book would be great for students to see that everyone does not perceive things the same way, take into consideration that people are stronger and weaker than others in multiple ways, and to treat others well.

Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi

Satrapi, M. (2003). Persepolis. New York, NY: Pantheon Books.

Persepolis is about a little girl named Marjane Satrapi , her memories of growing up, and events that occurred through the Islamic Revolution. This memoir is created by complete black and white comic strips that really make the book very fascinating for readers. As the reader goes through the book, they will notice the strength and concern she has for family and war that is going on right before her eyes. You can’t help but feel empathy and hope for her. Marjane also shows the reader her clever, eccentric, full of life energy as she tells her story. If students wanted another book similar to this one, I would mention the Persepolis 2, Maus, or even Fun Home: A Family Tragicomic. In connect to “Making the match”, teens would enjoy this funny, deep, and factual memoir. This book will clear up some of the stereotypical thoughts people may have about people from the Middle East.

Staying Fat for Sarah Byrnes by Chris Crutcher

Crutcher, C. (1993). Staying fat for Sarah Byrnes. New York, NY: Greenwillow Books.

Sarah Byrnes and Eric Calhoune have been very close friends since grade school since they both were very unpopular in school. Sarah was unpleasant to look at because of so called “hot water burns and scars”, and Eric being “overweight”. Even though everyone knows the story of Sarah being burned from her tipping a pot with scorching hot water over her face, no one not even Eric her closest friend knows the real truth, until one day Sarah stops talking and is taken to a hospital. Eric never once gives up on Sarah and is determined to find out why Sarah has stopped communicating with everyone including him all of a sudden. Eric goes to the extreme to figure out the mystery of the silent Sarah Byrnes and almost getting killed by Mr. Virgil Byrnes. With the help of their friend and their teacher, Sarah is safe from her treacherous father, finds out that her mother will not save her, and is adopted by a loving family. I would definitely recommend this book to any student in seventh grade and above. I would also envision middle school teachers using this book to expose the difficult situations that students go through and how they can grow and accept these struggles and move forward. Like Michael Cart states, "Life is hard. Life is especially hard for teens. Books can make it easier. They can make it easier by showing kids that they are not alone".

The Knife of Never letting Go by Patrick Ness

Ness, P. (2008). The knife of never letting go. Boston, MA: Candlewick Press

Todd is a boy on the verge of manhood when he all of a sudden he hears a silence which indicates something unusual. Ben and Cillian, which are his care takers urge him to leave town to save him from becoming “evil”, a man. Todd finds out what the silence is and continuously tries to seek help with Viola by his side by running from the army, hopping from town to town. Aaron catches up to them and tries turning Todd into a man by pushing his buttons to anger him which should lead Todd wanting to murder Aaron. Instead, Viola manages to kill him so Todd doesn't have to turn evil. Todd and Viola eventually end up in Haven but to their surprise, Mayor Prentiss is already there waiting for his army to settle into their new town. This book is recommended for ninth graders and above and would be great to introduce for a science fiction/fantasy story. This book like stated in “Making the Match”, is a Fantasy/ Science Fiction title that attracts many types of readers. The invented plot or setting keeps readers interested and allows them to escape to a faraway world. This book contained fanciful characters “animals” which were able to use either basic or advance vocabulary and could be heard throughout by everyone.

The Fault in our Stars by John Green

Green, J. (2014). The fault in our stars. Speak.

Hazel is a young girl who is terminally ill from cancer who has no motivation in life and is dealing with depression as well. Hazel is convinced by her mother to attend a teen support group to help her make friends and seek support from others affected by illnesses too. While she attends the support group, she meets a very interesting young man named Augustus Waters who sparks a flame between them. He turns her whole life around and makes her feel things she never thought or has ever felt before. He eventually admits to her that he has had cancer this whole time, and hopes that she can forgive him in hopes that he has changed her life for the better before her time is up. In the end, Hazel is very depressed but accepts the fact that he is gone and is grateful to have had the chance to love someone the way she loved him in her life time. I believe the strong points in this book are the feelings, emotions, and support that are expressed though out the whole story. Both characters are terminally ill and show that they can still find multiple pleasures to enjoy the last days of their lives, not knowing when it will be their last. This book can give young adults that have been diagnosed with health issues hope to still live life, enjoy every moment till the end. If a student asked for a book similar to this one, I would recommend “A Walk to remember”, or “The Probability of Miracles”.

The Surrender Tree by Margarita Engle

Engle, M. (2008). The surrender tree. NY: Holt

The book “The Surrender Tree” by Margarita Engle is composed of a real-life struggle for Cuba’s independence. This poem book is separated into five different parts and begins with flowers used to heal the wounded, then explains the three wars that occurred, and closes it off by the Surrender Tree which is the final end of the fighting. Rosa guides us through her experiences of pain, suffering, and hiding out to heal anyone who is hurt. Rosa and her husband learn to use many and certain parts of plants to help heal wounded people. The extra information in this book includes: Authors note, Historical Note, Chronology, Selected References, and acknowledgments. I would definitely recommend this book to history teachers, or to anyone who wants to learn more about Cuba’s history. Not only could this resource be useful for history teachers, but also very useful for English teachers who are teaching poetry with figurative language and imagery.

Monster by Walter Dean Myers

Myers, W. D. (1999). Monster. NY: Harper.

Steve Harmon is a 16 year old African American boy who is accused of committing a murder of a convenience store owner. Steve Harmon happens to be at the wrong place at the wrong time, and is writing in a journal and explaining the emotions and sadness he feels and experiences, as he waits in his jail cell throughout his trial. The protagonist keeps thinking throughout the whole story on why he is called a monster, if he did not commit any crime at all. If buying a candy at the grocery store is a crime, then he guesses he is a criminal. He ends up having many witnesses that help the judge determine that he is a well behaved, smart, and respectable young man who did not commit this monstrous crime. The age group for this book would be appropriate for grades 7-12th. Educators that have troubled kids or have students that are in gangs would find this to be a great resource for a wake up to call for their students.

It's Perfectly Normal by Robie Harris

Harris, R. (2009). It’s perfectly normal. Boston, MA: Candlewick Press.

 This book is all about the changes our bodies go through as we develop and grown in age. There are many questions that arise and at times we do not know how to answer some of those uncomfortable questions. Teens want to know why bodies and certain things are happening to them, and this book has most of the answers. “It’s Perfectly normal” is broken down into different sections by common questions, sex, decisions, and wraps it up by explaining how to stay healthy. This book contains a great amount of important information for the growing teens and also includes a thank you note, a bibliography, Index, a note to the reader, and a bit of information about the authors. This book was intended for children the age of 10 and up. If a curious student wanted another book like this, I would recommend “What’s Happening to my Body”, “Deal with it: A whole new approach to your body, brain and life as a goal”, ‘The boys body book: Everything you need to know for growing up you”, and “What’s the Big Secret?” Educators that teach sex education curriculum or even a health ed. class might find this resource very handy. Teens around this age are experiencing so many different emotions and body changes all at the same time, so we need to make sure we are educating them and supporting with accurate information to help them develop and be conscience of what is really happening to them, which is perfectly normal.

Please Ignore Vera Dietz by A.S. King

King, A. S. (2010). Please ignore Vera Dietz. New York: Alfred A. Knopf.

Vera is a young and responsible girl in high school who is trying to hold many secrets from her classmates about herself and her best bud. The only person who knows the secret that her mother was a stripper and left her at age 12, was her best friend Charlie. She struggles to keep her secret safe, explains her growing up experiences with Charlie, her feelings on becoming a young woman, and how she dwells on how she could’ve saved Charlie’s life. She solves her struggles by finally admitting and coping with her really being in love with Charlie all along. Her father as well faces and deals with his wife, Vera’s mom abandoning them, while that brings them closer together. Her dad supports her as she gains strength and courage to release the truth about Charlie Khan. This book would be best for the age range of 15 and up, or 9th grade and above. In correlation to the book, Vera undergoes a change of relationship with her dad and she matures with age, and after they both finish counseling and face the problems they have been hiding this whole time.

Janis Joplin: Rise Up Singing by Ann Angel

Angel, A. (2010). Janis Joplin: Rise up singing. NY: Amulet.

 The book “Janis Joplin Rise Up Singing “was written to provide the factual information about the unstoppable famous first female rock and blues star, Janis Joplin. The story stated how Janis lived in a small town named Port Arthur in Texas and relocated to California to pursue her dream in singing and making music. Singing was Janis’ outlet to happiness and to relieve the pain she felt for being alone, and not fitting in with her typical classmates. Girls in her hometown wore pins, skirts, married their high school sweetheart, and lived in a house with a white picket fence. Janis Joplin never fit in and longed for acceptance. In connection to “Making the Match”, it was tough fitting into societal expectations. Not being the type of girl everyone wanted her to be, caused her to seek drugs and alcohol which made her a loud and crazy girl later whom her fans adored. The book started by introducing Janis’ younger years and then the different stages and experiences throughout her life. This book included valuable information such as a timeline on her life, notes on each chapter, a bibliography, and an index. Other books that are similar in context are: “Music was it: young Leonard Bernstein”, “Starting at Zero” by Jimi Hendrix, and “Joe Cocker: The Authorised Biography”. This book will surely satisfy the "curiosity" or "snoopy" feeling we as readers posses.

Tequila Worm by Viola Canales

Canales, V. (2005). The tequila worm. NY: Wendy Lamb Books/Random House

Sophia is the protagonist in the story who is a young girl who gets offered a prestigious award to relocate to a school in Austin, Texas. Her family does not understand why she wants to move 300 miles away from their tight family, customs, and traditions. As Sophia gets accepted and moves, she explains her difficulties fitting in with the rich kids, dealing with a racist girl, and being homesick. She eventually gets used to life away from home, and within time she fits perfectly into becoming a comadre. I believe the major strength of this book was Sophia’s will power, courage, and motivation to follow through with pursuing her dream to getting a better education, even if it meant being far away from family and what she was used to. Sophia experienced many forms of social development mentioned in the book “Making the Match”. She began to become independent by obtaining a job at a warehouse doing a job she disliked to make money for her entrance school fee. Sophia was also able to hold a friend-relationship with a boy that she would regularly travel down with back to Mc Allen during the holidays. I have to say that I really enjoyed reading this story because I can relate to Sophia’s culture and family traditions. I am also from the Rio Grande Valley and previously moved to Austin Texas for a better Job. My family was not very fond of my relocating, but I eventually gained their full support just as Sophia did. This book would be valuable to add to any collection because of the diversity and different cultures.

Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson

Anderson, L. H. (1999). Speak. NY: Penguin

 Melinda, is a freshman in high school who is being hated by her classmates for the wrong reason. Melinda withholds the truth about a past situation that could free her from self torment. She eventually faces the problem by finally speaking out to advise her best friend to protect her from a situation that could happen again. Speaking out allowed her to come to terms that it was not her fault for being sexually assaulted by the guy her ex best friend begins to date. In the end, Melinda almost gets assaulted again by the same guy because she speaks the truth about the night of the party. She screams and hollers which gets the attention of the Lacrosse team which unfolds the truth that Melinda was right about being sexually assaulted by Andy Evans.If a student were to ask me for other books similar to the book "Speak" I would have to recommend the story "Just Listen" by Sarah Dessen, or "Some Boys" by Patty Blount. They are similar in the sense of the protagonist being raped or sexually assaulted, no one believing their story which leads them to become a social outcast and eventually opening up about the situation. I feel that this may be a great read for students who are dealing or coping with a situation just like Melinda. Unfortunately, teens go through situations just like this and may need to read about how others can come back to life after being an outcast, betrayed, and raped.

The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie

Alexie, S. (2007). The absolutely true diary of a part-time Indian. NY: Little Brown.

Junior is the main character in the story who receives advice from a teacher, that he should relocate to another school to receive a better education. Once he relocates, it is very difficult for him to make friends, keep his childhood best friend from hating him, and being accepted in his new school by his peers. Eventually he makes friends with a very smart and inspiring boy named “Gordy”, has some acquaintances at school, and falls in love with a girl named Penelope who sort of becomes his girlfriend. Despite all the hardships he experiences, he later realizes that everything was worth it in the end. This book had me laughing and crying at the same time from cover to cover. I think teens can learn many things from this book, but one main lesson could be to always keep your head up high no matter what life throws at you. Junior experienced many difficult events but no matter the situation, Junior never gave up and that is one thing teens could appreciate from Junior.  In the book “Making the Match”, it states that books can serve as portals to help students see others struggling with similar emotions and feelings and reactions. This book can definitely help teens cope with the difficulty of making new friends, and struggles with family and community.

African Americans and technology use

Smith, A.(2014). African Americans and Technology Use. Pew Research Center. Retrieved from http://www.pewinternet.org/files/2014/01/African-Americans-and-Technology-Use.pdf I love using technology and ave always wondered, does everyone else use technology just as much as I do? I know that there are many instances where people re not able to use technology because of certain reasons. I found through this article that African Americans are very much usisng technology just as much as everyone else. I was so surprised to read in this article that "Young African Americans have high levels of Twitter use". I never would've thought they would be huge twitters. Another misconception I had was that many use internet and broadband usage 62%. Here is more information gathered from the article "African Americans and Technology Use".

17/15 pages

Who not Online, and why not?

Zickuhr, K.(2013) Whos not online and why. Pew Research Center. retrieved from http://www.pewinternet.org/files/old-media//Files/Reports/2013/PIP_Offline%20adults_092513_PDF.pdf I have always thought that since the internet has been around for about 20 years now, everyone should be using it?Well of course not everyone, but you know, almost everyone. I was shocked to when I read this article on who is not online and why not. I learned that many adults over the age of 18 are not using the internet because of many reasons. Some adults are not using the internet because it is too hard for them to use, it may be too expensive to pay for the computer plus services, and because they just don;t have any use for it. Wow! How can someone not have a use for the internet these days. I can't imagine life without it! Here is some of the data I recovered.

31/46 pages

The internet of things will Thrive in 2025

Anderson, J. & Rainie, L.(2014).The internet of Things will Thrive in 2025. Pew Research Center. Retrieved from http://www.pewinternet.org/files/2014/05/PIP_Internet-of-things_0514142.pdf Have you ever wondered what will technology be like in the future? Well we know that technology is just always blooming and progressing at a fast rate. What do you think it will be like in the year 2025? I believe we need to definitely keep up with the technology and don't fall behind because you're only going to get buried in deeper. Well studies say that there will be many positives as well as negatives that come along with our wonderful technology. After reading the article "The Internet of things will Thrive by 2025", I was astonished but also calm with what many are saying about our future. Many voices from the article are stating that the future will bring many devices such as GPS or sensors will be embedded into almost everything. We will be able to control almost all items simply from our phone. From turning off our coffee maker, to warning us of an abnormal activity at home, etc. others are saying that it will be too complicated, and unintended consequences from too much technology. "We will live in a world where many things won't work and nobody will know how to fix them". There is so much information, and yet we will not know what it's going to be like in 202. I say we will just have to wait and see what happens. Here are the six themes of how the internet of things will thrive in 2025.

33/99 pages

e reading on the rise

Zickuhr, K.(2014).E-Reading Rises As Device Ownership Jumps.PewResearch Center. Retrieved from http://www.pewinternet.org/files/2014/01/PIP_E-reading_011614.pdf Have you ever wondered if books will one day not be used for information or for pleasure reading? I personally enjoy the love of reading especially with an actual book in my hand. There is just something about having a book to hold and at times to highlight. I know there are times when my local library does not have the book I want to read, so I have to purchase it in an e book format(believe me, I don't enjoy that). I think to myself, why? Little by little, I do notice myself reading more ebooks than hand held books, only because it is very convenient for me to quickly go online and purchase a book I am in desperate need for. I have noticed more and more people around campus, at coffee shops, and around town who are using an e type form to read. Yes it's true! I learned from this article that even though books are mostly still used, e books are on the rise, and they are mainly used by woman. Woman are more likely than men to have read a book in the previous 12 months. Those with higher education and income are more likely to have done so as well. Blacks are more likely yo read than Hispanics. Here is an inforgraphic I created to show you some information I obtained from an article.

20/66 pages

Review on technologies

It's about that time, where we evaluate our semester as a whole and discus what was liked and disliked. To tell you the truth, I was a bit petrified of this class in the beginning because I have been at a step back from technology. This class brought me back to the current level I should be at, and I enjoy it so very much! Even though it was a big struggle for me to get the hang of blogging and embedding codes from all different places, I had a blast. I can not believe how much technology was incorporated in this class! I am truly amazed when I look back and see my blog page as well as everyone else's. Amazing work! When i look back I do have to say that I now have some technology to be incorporating into my everyday teaching. The first thing I am going to start with is definitely QR codes. Gosh- I learned so many ways a QR code can be beneficial in the class as well as in the library. I want to promote book fairs and events going on in the library. Animoto will be used for my first days of school, open house, and even for the end of the school year videos. For my own personal use I am going to be keeping up with the website "goodreads" and "shelfari". Oh how I loved those sites! One thing I did have a bit of a problem was when I created infographics. Creating infographics was difficult only in the sense to input the information into pictures. The process is amazing though. You will clearly identify the knowledge the students gained from creating one. In conclusion, this has to be my favorite class so far in the MLS program. I was so scared at first to begin this technology journey, and now I'm finishing it with a smile and a tear.

Instagram AND Vine

I love it! I didn't want to believe people when they said I would love instagram! but I just got the app on my phone and logged on to my computer and BAM! It was a little tricky at first getting used to the icons, but it gets easier as you play with it. I love the fact that it is all photos and minimal text! Hashtags are pretty interesting. Here's my first photo!


Now I only posted one picture of me, but come back in a week and I am positive there will be plenty more to see! Here is one of the vie videos I liked because I've never been to a library in New York! Here's a sneak peak. And here is another vine I thought was funny.

Screencasts

Hi Friends! Ever wondered how people make videos of what they are doing on their own computer, and you see their screen? How do they do that? Well I have created two videos showing how to use a computer program for kids in a library, and I also created a video showing how to create an animoto video! These videos that you will see what I am doing on my computer screen has a name! It is called "Screencast"! Yes, it is totally cool and you can make some videos of your very own. Check my videos out. The program I used to create this video was "screencastomatic".

 Video: How to use Destiny Quest in a school library.


 

 The second video I created was used with the program called "screenr". Check it out!



Now using both of these screencast programs I would have to say that I really enjoyed playing around with these two programs but hands down, screencastomatic was so much easier to navigate,also publish, and embed to my blog! Yes all these steps were done within minutes, and with screenr, it took me a little while longer (don't want to mention the actual time it took me). Screenr was easy too, don't get me wrong, but screencastomatic was just so much more user friendly. I recommend it! The pros to screenr was the modern "look and feel" to the website, and I liked the automatic "share" option as soon as the video was done being recorded. Now I recommend you to try to create your very own screencasts! They are fun!

Comic strips

Sometimes as educators, we seem to just strictly teach, teach, teach! I have always thought that there has to be another way to get our students writing and have them enjoy it! Well there is a new way to get your students writing what they love about. What am I talking about? I am talking about COMIC STRIPS! Comic strips are so much fun to create and super easy to use! I have created 3 for you to see. This is a comic strip that I created from the website "Pixton". Pixton was very easy to use and had tons of options. They have background layouts already made, and you just simply fill in the blanks. You get plenty to choose from and can even pick from random quotes just like I did in the first bubble.

If you want more leverage to create your comic strip, you can also use the website "ToonDoo". This website was a bit over whelming in my opinion because you can choose from too many things. I started from scratch and I chose every single thing on the comic strip. This is great for students who have an exact idea, but may be too much for a student who has no idea where to start.

By brucie00 | View this Toon at ToonDoo | Create your own Toon

The last comic strip I created was just totally random! I used the website " Make belief comix". It is exactly what the title says! Make belief. This website was a little more difficult to use in sense where it wasn't very user friendly for me. I had a difficult time finding the perfect character, and picking the right colors and minimal options. I felt that this comic wasn't too great.

Out of all the three comic strip websites, I would definitely choose "Pixton". It was just so much fun and easy to use. Any student could use this and have a blast. These comic strips get your students' imagination going, their writing skills, and fun all at the same time! I recommend it! In the future, I definitely plan to use this for ELA. I would like my students to either create a cmic strip that deals with the story of the week we read. they could also create an alternative ending to a read aloud, or I would love to have them create their very own story! I am sure they can come up with some amazing stories and to share with the class!

Online Book Communities

What are Online book communities? Online book communities are a great place to post, share, and rate books for other book lovers to see. It is like an online book club where I love to see other people who have read a book I am interested in and get to read their opinion on that certain book. I had the privilege to scope out four different book communities for you, so that will not have to waste any of your precious time. I am going to share with you the pros and cons of these 4 communities. The first book community I scoped out was goodreads.com I have already been a huge fan of goodreads because it is so easy to use! I noticed that it is very appealing for users to use and enjoy. It is simplified and you are able to add books to your shelf, rate each one, create your own categories, and much more. It is very user friendly. I rate this book community a 5, on a scale from 1-5. Here is what my profile looks like.

The second book community I explored was librarything.com. This site was not very appealing to me because it lacked photos and contained too much plane text. It didn't interest me much. Going beyond the text overload, I also had a difficult time trying to place my book into certain categories. I had to play around with the tabs for a good while just to get the gist of things. I didn't enjoy this site very much. n a scale from 1-5, I give this book site a 2. Here is what my profile looks like.

The third book community I joined is booklikes.com. This website was easy to join and had a virtual tour, and video to help you use it. It had a lot to offer their users. You can create a timeline of the books you read, you can blog about books, and I also have your own book shelf which are all really neat options. This site had the timeline and blog looking option, that the other sites didn't have so that gives it a plus. Another plus was that is had a modern feel-look to this website. I liked this site! On the scale, it was a 4! Here's what my shelf looks like.

And finally, the last community I looked at was shelfari.com that is created by amazon. First off, I love amazon so that was one thing that made me interested. Ten the look of this site was awesome! I absolutely loved the virtual bookshelf with the books you have read. So cute! The images are attractive, easy to use, extremely easy to add books to your shelf and I have to say my favorite option was the three check off options you have. It is between the 1.)I plan to Read 2.) Reading now 3.)I've read. I have to say that this site was my new favorite book community. Then it is goodreads,com. I am so ecstatic to announce to all my friends to use shelfari now. I hope you will use shelfari, if not any of the others are great to use as well! Here is what Shelfari looks like...

Podcasts in the Library

Hello fellow friends and bloggers! I am stoked to introduce to you a new Tool that is so cool and easy to use. You can use it for any type of learning, teaching, or just for fun. I just found out how to create a podcast! I have been playing around with three different FREE sites that allow you to create yours for free. Here they are and you can choose which ones you like best. The first one I signed up for was Podomatic. I really liked podomatic at first because it is full of color with pictures of all sorts of music! And let me tell you, boy do I love music! I began to explore and really it wasn't as easy as I thought with this site. It has tons of music and allows you to record your own podcast and share with the world.

The next two sites I explored was soundcloud and audioboo. Soundcloud was a bit plain when I first got onto the page because I was comparing it to podomatic. So I logged in and it was pretty easy. I liked that it had more to offer like listening to music, creating your own podcast of course, you could also connect wth your friends and follow podcasts all in one place. That was a plus for me. Then I also explored audioboo and honestly, I could not decide on which site was best. Audioboo was just as easy to create a podcast. I loved how convieniet it was to record from my iphone, save it, send it to my email, and just upload it to audioboo. It was so difficult to chose between sound cloud and Audioboo. In the end, I chose Audioboo because of the quick tour it provides for you. That really helped me with Audioboo. I hope you try them out as well and see which one you like the best. Let me know what you think!

With the hep of Audioboo, I created a podcast on how I would love to introduce to the students new books that will be arriving in the library. It can also be like a "book talk". Here I am introducing one of my favorite books "Kitten's First Full Moon". Don't laugh, I was pretty nervous recording. I am sure I will get better once I get used to listening to my voice.

listen to ‘Kittens First Full Moon’ on Audioboo

Videos and QR codes in the library

Today it's all about technology! Today I want to talk about some of the hottest technology out there that is being used by so many people ! You can be using these enticing, fun filled technology applications as well in your everyday life. The first thing I wanted to explode is the amazing videos that students are creating all on their own dealing with school stuff!They are so creative and just astonishing. The first channel I watched was from NHS Library and felt that the most helpful video they had was "Google word docs Parts 1,2, and 3". They show a great tutorial on what the differences are and how to apply it. The video I think most students would enjoy is the orientation of the school library. I think students would enjoy this because it is a visual video refreshing their memory of "boring" library rules and this is one way of getting students to pay attention to important information you want to instill in them for the school year. The second channel I viewed was "the unquiet library" and I think the most useful video was a video tutorial on how to embed a voice thread into your prezi. That is spectacular to know students are using prezi in their school! I think students would enjoy The third channel I watched was Pikesville HS Library and I believe the most useful video was The financial aid workshop. They are showing students one step on how to prepare for college and know they can apply for money to pay for their further education The video students would enjoy would probably be the senior party in the library. I am sure that is almost every kids wish that could be granted. The last channel I viewed was from "BBMS" and their helpful video would be the MLA Citation review. The most enjoyable one would be the "Dr.Katherine and the book Hoarder". I would love to use videos in my future library by make orientation videos, book reviews, book talks with students, and especially students having fun in the library creating skits and plays from a book. Using QR codes! Ever wonder what those crazy-unique codes are? They are codes to help you find out more information on certain things. I created a QR code for a book trailer I would love you to check out!I created a book trailer on one of y favorite books called "Creepy Carrots by: Aaron Reynolds". This story is so cute and shows how being greedy can haunt you.If you'd like to see more on this story, just scan this code with an already installed QR Reader on your smartphone or ipad. Enjoy! Synopsis: The Twilight Zone comes to the carrot patch in this clever picture book parable about a rabbit who fears his favorite treats are out to get him. I definitely want to use QR codes in my future library and plan to use them like scavenger hunts, place a code on book marks, end caps, magazine covers, and especially on book covers! The list can go on and on. I saw libraries using QR codes with book covers, links to songs, videos, websites,surveys and contests. Thy also used it on a flyer to grab students attention for book fairs or other events happening in the library. Very Clever!

I am Bloglovin it!

Hey there my blogger pals :) I am here once again, and I want to show you something that is very fascinating to me. For back some time now, I was surfing through some amazing blogs and wondered how could I keep track of all these inspiring people under one log? I know there was no way I was ever going to remember their blog names or the idea they had that had me head over heels for them. There was just too many great blogs out there. Well here I am to let at least one of your problems become solved. There are many wonderful places to save all your favorite blogs under one place! YES you read right. Well I had the privilege to play around and discover the pros and cons to couple of blog readers. I got to play around with Bloglovin, Freedly, Bloglness, Newsblur, and digg. Now out of all these blog readers, I absolutely fell in love with Bloglovin because it was so easy to use, navigate through, choose blogs, and I loved the left side panel. I did have a hard time choosing between bloglovin and freedly, but bloglovin won me over by being easier for me to find bogs that I needed instead of blogs that I could use on my spare time away from school and work, and who as free time now a days. So yes bloglovin has what you need to survive and also has the stuff you want for the little spare time you have. So all in one "bloglovin" is all you need. I did not choose newsblur or digg because it was a bit too on the plane side. It was basically about news about what is going around in the world, and don't get me wrong, I know the news is extremely important, but I'm searching for a place to keep up my with favorite blogs. So on Bloglovin, I saved a couple of blogs for you to see and here is number 5 (out of five)... It is Blog "Elementary Librarian" and I enjoyed this blog because she had wonderful advice for librarians. She really goes into detail about things and feelings you may experience in the library after some time, and she helps you over come those obstacles with great advice. Take a look at how she got her library mojo back :) She especially focuses on lesson plans and ideas for the library.
http://www.bloglovin.com/frame?blog=5044287&group=0&frame_type=b&frame=1&click=0&user=0

My number 4 choice was... "Free technology for Teachers".
This blog supplies great resources obviously for free technology  and also shows how teachers can use technology and ideas to integrate in the classroom. This would be a great place to get information to pass along to the teachers in your campus for technology usage. Here is the link....
http://www.bloglovin.com/frame?blog=1315757&group=0&frame_type=b&frame=1&click=0&user=0

My 3rd choice was "A media Specialist Guide to the Internet" . You can never have too much technology, so here I chose another technology blog to help me with everything I might need help with when dealing with technology. This blog has so much stuff! It has information with ESL, new teachers, all subjects, and especially with Web 2.0 tools!
http://www.bloglovin.com/frame?blog=3338385&group=0&frame_type=b&frame=1&click=0&user=0

My 2nd choice was .... "Monarchs Librarian Blog". She is ONE inspiring librarian! She even had her library be announced in the School Library Journal. How cool is that! You need to see what I am talking about.

http://www.bloglovin.com/frame?blog=6429179&group=0&frame_type=b&frame=1&click=0&user=0

And my number 1 pick of blogs was "Kid Tested, Librarian Approved"! This blog is all about book reviews which I love reading. I get a kick out of reading reviews and see what certain books are about. She does a great job on book reviews and I know I can use this in the future. Go ahead and enjoy her blog too.

http://www.bloglovin.com/frame?blog=5259411&group=0&frame_type=b&frame=1&click=0&user=0

I hope you enjoyed looking through my five favorite blogs and hope that you will keep your favs in one place too!

Infographic: Social Media and technology

easel.ly Lenhart,A.,Purcell,K.,Smith,A., & Zickuhr, K.(2010).Social Media &Mobile Internet Use Among Teens and Young Adults. Pew Internet & American Life Project,51. Retrieved by: http://www.pewinternet.org/files/old-media//Files/Reports/2010/PIP_Social_Media_and_Young_Adults_Report_Final_with_toplines.pdf Hi friends! I am glad to be back and here to give you some info on some interesting facts that I just read from the article "Social Media & Mobile Internet Use Among Teens and Young Adults". Do you think you know what teens prefer and use now a days when it comes to social sites as well as gadgets? I found this article, and it sure opened up my eyes to how young teens and adults are using the internet to social sites and technology! Let me tell you, it is not what I expected at all! Some interesting facts that I came across was that adults at the age of 50-64 are online and have increased since 2006. I am glad to hear that the older ones are using online much more now. Cell phone ownership increases with educational attainment and income. Teen activities on social networks are going down AND Adults over 30 are still blogging including by sharing photos, videos, artwork, and stories! 28% of internet users are 30 years and older now take part 12% more. I never thought for one moment that the social network for young teens was ever slowing down, but apparently it is! Adults are still using social sites and don't think they will be stopping anytime soon. Besides students slowing down on the social sites, they are no where near stopping the usage of wireless connection on their cell phones, laptops, or their gaming gadgets. I am glad to hear they are still discovering more on the surfing the web. Who knows what will be net for the social sites. Thank you for stopping by and hope you stop by next time :) 51/150

Twitter

Good evening Friends! I have been exploring a new tool today that I have been interested in for quite some time but have not peeked in to explore it up until NOW! Let me give you a hint. We have all seen that little adorable blue bird everywhere on the internet. What is that? what can that bird mean? Yes it is Twitter! It is a fun, catchy way to be informed of new and hip things that your friends or famous people want to share. I love it because each post can only be up to 120 words, so there are no excessively long posts, just something short and to the point.
One post I loved was from one of the people I follow and her name is The Daring Librarian and her username is : Gwyneth Jones here is one of her tweets.

I just earned a gold badge in #Education Technology for my topic Daring Gadgets, QR Codes, Apps, Tools... on @scoopit http://t.co/EIv6AEbIDz

— The Daring Librarian (@GwynethJones) June 3, 2014

Here is another tweet from another one of my favorite people: It is by Kathy Schrock and her user name is @Kathyschrock

Having lifelong friends can continue to help you #WorkWonders! Enter the #contest to share! http://t.co/C2xYgn4dEX pic.twitter.com/5453PPLYL0

— Kathy Schrock (@kathyschrock) May 30, 2014

Here is a great tweet that helped me see visually see what google has to offer and it is noted from Jim Lerman @jimlerman

30 Simple Ways You Should Be Using Google - Edudemic via @DClaphamK12 http://t.co/TYwgb9eufi

— Jim Lerman (@jimlerman) May 31, 2014

We are thinking the same thing! Buffy Hamilton @buffyjhamilton

I will always think of Summer 2013 in #CLE when I hear this song! http://t.co/aOquBDaKbf #NowPlaying

— Buffy Hamilton (@buffyjhamilton) May 29, 2014

This one is hilarious! This tweet is from Tony Vincent @tonyvincent

See the priceless reactions in this video where kids react to seeing (and trying to use) an Apple II: https://t.co/uA2QWLhBPR #edtechchat

— Tony Vincent (@tonyvincent) May 27, 2014

This was very inspirational to me and I am sure it is to many others! This was posted from Linda Braun @lbraun2000

RT @HuffPostEdu: Incredible teen earns full ride for college while living in homeless shelter http://t.co/3XIsnrNZXK

— Linda W Braun (@lbraun2000) May 30, 2014

Facebook

Hello! Today I wanted to introduce to you a "tool" that I have been exploring for some time now. It has been around for a couple of years now, and you probably have heard of it, or you might even have your own account. The tool that I am talking about is "Facebook"! It is a wonderful and exciting place to post messages, keep in touch with friends and family, or you can even promote businesses.
I was using my own personal Facebook account and was looking at some school libraries Facebook pages and noticed many elaborate ways librarians are using Facebook to promote their library or even simply just to keep students, parents, and teachers informed on events happening within the school/library. One thing I absolutely loved about the Facebook pages was that each and every page had pictures of students from their school involved with the library and events that they have participated in. A high school library had students vote on their choice for the next contest to be held in the library. An elementary Facebook page was so much more exciting because that page had much more activity going on and had more information. Students were even commenting "I love our library", or "stopping by to say hi". Some of the information that was provided was the week activities, promoting book fairs, a place to ask questions, reminders about no school on certain days, new book arrivals, and reading night. One disadvantage I think would be students not being interested in their libraries Facebook page, or maybe a librarian not posting or keeping up with a the page. I noticed more activity from the elementary pages rather than from the middle and high school pages. There's plenty of ways to get your students involved with your page!  Students may also post negative comments or false statements/information on the page that may not be positive for the audience. Just like everything, you are always going to have positive and negative points, but overall using Facebook has so many more pluses than minuses. It was a very fun, easy to use, and manageable tool that I highly recommend. It can become addicting!!! Beware :)  

   

Starting my very own BLOG

So today is my very first time to create a blog, post, and explore a blog! I am so excited but intimidated as well because it can be over whelming with something that is totally new. I will overcome my fear with lots of practice and exploring. Let's see how it comes out.