Book Review (Secondary)

Author - Lisa Brown

This graphic novel by Lisa Brown is a middle/ high school novel that takes us back to the turn of the century with conjoined twins. The twins are sold to the owner of a sideshow at the age of three and are then part of the sideshow family. The story unfolds the juxtaposition of harsh life in a sideshow and family the “freaks” create. Iss narrates the journey of losing her sister in the surgery meant to give them both freedom, her continued attachment to Jane in the years to come, and the cost of her innocence. As a reader we are offered a peek into the lives of those who are different and can see how humanity can be lost in judgmental actions. A favorite quote from the book was “Gibtown, Florida where the freaks retire” The connections for appreciation for differences, humanity and the power of resilience is strong in this piece. There is some language toward the end of the novel that makes this high school level. It is opens great conversations about connection and the human spirit.

Borders

Author -Thomas King
Illustrated by Natasha Donovan

This graphic novel by Thomas King and illustrated by Natasha Donovan is an upper Elementary/ Middle Grade novel that masterfully explores the idea of borders and citizenship from a Blackfoot perspective. Narrated from the perspective of a young boy who watches his sister leave the reserve to live in Salt Lake City. After six years, he and his mother go to visit his sister, but find themselves in limbo when his mother gives her citizenship as Blackfoot, not Canadian or American. The story incorporates flashbacks to help the reader see the relationship of mother and daughter and lets us see the young narrator understand the pride his mother feels for her people and heritage. As a reader we are offered some deep reflection on citizenship and land ownership. A favorite quote from the book was “You know, you read about these things, but you just don’t believe it.” This has such great conversations for geography, history, and ELA teachers. The reading age is 8-12, but my HS has loved this one.