Gennifer Choldenko: Al Capone Does My Shirts

Louis Sachar: Holes

I totally forgot what an amazing story this is! This is the third reading of it, and I bawled at the end. Stanley Yelnats (stanley backwards) has terrible luck, doesn't like himself very much, and is forced to dig 5x5x5 holes in the middle of the desert as punishment ("this isn't a girl scout camp") for a crime he didn't commit.

Sachar weaves a family's history into the tale among the modern Stanley's detailed experience. The end of the story, while tidily wrapped up, is original and masterful in the manner the entire text was written.

Really a unique story, and I am SO glad I haven't (and won't) see the movie...I love the images of Caveman and Zero I have in my head, and have no desire to have anyone else's interpretation. I love my imagination!!

Definitely check this book out!

Jack Gantos: Hole in My Life

Even though the story is far from upbeat, Gantos doesn't tell a "woe as me" story of his incarceration. The events leading up to his arrest are told realistically, and the one theme that is weaved throughout is Gantos' desire to write--in any capacity. While his drug use and drinking were completely out of control, his lifestyle is essential to the story, but never appears preachy to the reader--which is slightly different from most Young Adult texts.

This is more of a story of a writers' journey to where he is today, told in a very matter-of-fact way without preaching or judging. Brutally honest and moving--I am glad Gantos published this text. He also alludes to several (more than 15) important books/authors in his journey, and could be great tool in the classroom. Students who enjoy nonfiction & biographies/memoirs will really enjoy this book. Potential writers would also benefit from reading this text as well. Check it out!

Jack Gantos: Joey Pigza Loses Control