Booktalks, Bookwalks, and Read-Alouds

June 1, 2003
Blass has selected more than 150 books published between 1998 and 2001 for inclusion in this guide, organized into four chapters: "Language Arts and Literature," "Mathematics and Science," "Social Studies," and "Arts and Recreation." Each entry includes a recommended age level, a brief summary, a booktalk (or "bookwalk"), curriculum connections such as activities to extend understanding, and suggestions for related books. Appendixes consist of clarification of vocabulary used in the curriculum-connection sections, such as a diagram showing a character web, a character wheel, or a "fish bone" chart to identify cause and effect. Blass has based her choices on reviews in standard professional journals. However, she hasn't chosen a single Caldecott or Newbery award winner within her four-year span. There is no indication of the author's credentials or experience in the field. Joni Richard Bodart's many booktalk guides such as Booktalk! 4 (H.W. Wilson, 1992) provide excellent samples and advice for young adult librarians to develop their own style in presenting to an older age group. Blass's book can be used as a supplement for the younger age group.-Blair Christolon, Prince William Public Library System, Manassas, VA

Copyright 2003 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

June 1, 2003
Approximately 167 booktalks for elementary-school students are organized by curriculum. Fiction and nonfiction titles that are recent (1998-2001), have won awards, are written by award-winning authors, have received good reviews, or reflect emerging trends are included. The introduction states that librarians are the main audience for the book, although teachers are also acknowledged. Each book entry provides the approximate ages of the audience, a summary of the book, a booktalk script, curriculum connections, and a list of other books that are related. An appendix provides activities to use with the books. The brief booktalks will be welcome by busy teachers and librarians.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2003, American Library Association.)