Looking backwards, discussions around sexual orientation and sexual identity have been noticeably absent at the middle grades. As a result, middle grade teachers may find it difficult to know how to effectively select age-appropriate materials that include LGBTQ issues and content. To move the field forward, the authors specifically highlight four…

Shares some novels that can reinvigorate a "dormant reader." Presents annotations of nine titles and some additional titles related to the main nine titles. (SG)

Presents an annotated bibliography of nine books that kids think are great. Recommends the books on the basis of pure enjoyment. (SG)

Offers brief descriptions of 12 recently published books of young adult literature that offer voices from history, real kids with real problems, and whispers from the future. Discusses two simple guidelines for recommending books to students, and notes three suitable adult books as well as three resources for locating adult books that will be of…

Offers brief descriptions of 12 recently and not-so-recently published books for young adults, that speak to a wide range of interests at a variety of reading levels, and that could be "just the ticket" to help a reluctant reader bond with books. (SR)

Argues that educators must take responsibility for putting a stop to the hatred for and disenfranchisement of students who are seen as being different. Suggests doing that by making sure the expository texts are set within the context of themes--those ideas that matter to students. Presents an annotated list of novels and expository texts to help…

Presents descriptions of 14 websites that are divided into two categories: sites to help teachers learn more about expository text structure and informational sites students might enjoy. (SG)

Presents 13 works of nonfiction (published between 1993 and 2001) with strong appeal to middle level students. Notes that the books range in form from the essay to expository text to memoir and biography and cover everything from politics to slavery, from athletes to art. (SG)

Offers short descriptions of 12 books for young adults that involve outsiders and that explore conflicting needs for identity and community. Argues that books may provide the spring boards for a dialog which has heated up since September 11th: how we as a nation can stand united yet retain our strength in diversity. (SR)

Offers brief annotations of 18 books for young adults which are the author's favorites: books that break new ground with unusual styles and formats; that discuss hitherto taboo topics; and present fresh distinctive new voices for readers. (SR)

Discusses text features that tended to engage boys, and describes their desire to use literacy to share and socialize. Finds that boys were more different than alike, and that very particular conditions in the social context were more important than preexisting interests. Offers brief descriptions of 11 books the author has found to be appealing…

Offers brief annotations of 24 books for adolescents in which girls take on tough tasks, face seemingly insurmountable obstacles, and triumph over adversity. (SR)

Offers brief descriptions of 25 books, both fiction and nonfiction, that are accessible to struggling readers, provide a high-quality reading experience, and may allow them to break through their difficulties to see reading as something of value to their lives. (SR)

Presents brief descriptions of 24 books that are likely to interest gifted readers in the middle grades. Notes that such literature can serve to bolster their overall development and also enhance appropriate self-advocacy for their talents. (SR)

Offers brief annotations of 40 science fiction and fantasy books that middle school readers might enjoy. Notes that readers can confront the realities of this real world as the fictional characters fight good and evil, search for identity, summon courage, and enjoy family and friends. (SR)