I am always thrilled when students are introduced to new books through the content we are learning about.  As you know through reading past posts, we read about Malala Yousafzai.  Through the readings and a video we watched, students learned Malala wrote an autobiography titled I Am Malala.  I am so glad that so many students want to read about her on their own!  One student, Luke, checked the book out of the Media Center (the book just was put on the shelf), and he was excited to show me his new read.

 

When the Taliban took control of the Swat Valley in Pakistan, one girl spoke out. Malala Yousafzai refused to be silenced and fought for her right to an education.

This might be a great next read for many of you.  If not maybe this next one.

I have just finish Wonder by RJ Palacio.  I truly think this novel is a wonder.  I loved how the author crafted the character of Auggie. I felt I got to know him through his experiences.  Not only did I get to experience the events through Auggie’s eyes, Palacio also included the perspective of other characters and how Auggie has affected their lives.  It is truly an inspiring novel, and one that should be read by middle school students. 

The next novel up for me to read is Out of My Mind by Sharon Draper.  Multiple people have recommended it to me. 

Eleven-year-old Melody has a photographic memory. Her head is like a video camera that is always recording. Always. And there’s no delete button. She’s the smartest kid in her whole school-but NO ONE knows it.

Most people-her teachers and doctors included-don’t think she’s capable of learning, and up until recently her school days consisted of listening to the same preschool-level alphabet lessons again and again and again. If only she could speak up, if only she could tell people what she thinks and knows. But she can’t. She can’t talk. She can’t walk. She can’t write.

Being stuck inside her head is making Melody go out of her mind-that is, until she discovers something that will allow her to speak for the first time ever. At last Melody has a voice . . . but not everyone around her is ready to hear it. (Sharon Draper.com)

Below is an interview with the author.

This could be a pick for you.  Look out for some more novel choices.

Happy Reading!