Author: Jane Yolen
Illustrator: David Shannon
Date of Publication: September 1998
Title: The Ballad of the Pirate Queens
ISBN – 13: 9780152018856
The level (what grade level): Read Aloud
Topic (what it is about): Pirate queens who come under attack
The storyline: This story begins when two ladies of the Vanity’s crew were on guard. Suddenly government officials abruptly came on board! The two pirate queens tried their best in battle but they were all alone. The other crew members were down below drinking.
Why you liked it: I enjoyed this story because it isn’t your traditional pirate tale. You never know what to expect on the next page.
What you might be able to do with it in a class: Pirate lesson or dealing with friend issues
Author: Patricia MacLachlan
Date of Publication: September 1987
Title: Sarah Plain and Tall
ISBN – 13: 9780064402057
The level (what grade level): Read Aloud or Very high individual reading
Topic (what it is about): Life after a mother dies; adjusting to life, life on the prairie
The storyline: The children’s mother died during the birth of Caleb. Papa puts an ad in the paper asking for a wife and later receives a letter from Sarah Wheaton. When she comes to meet them, they wonder what she will be like.
Why you liked it: This is a classic! It is very descriptive in how life was back then. I really like how Caleb and Anna react to Sarah’s coming.
What you might be able to do with it in a class: I might have the kids write an ending to the story before they finish reading it. Have them answer the question asked in the summary and complete the story. After finishing the story, you might compare and contrast the endings with their personal ones.
