Rubber Houses by Ellen Yeomans (Little Brown, 2007). ISBN: 9780316106474
In a masterfully structured verse novel, Yeomans tells the story of
the grief-filled year when high schooler Kit's nine-year-old brother
Buddy is diagnosed with and dies of cancer--and her struggle to come
to terms with the loss of her beloved sibling. Buddy's unexpected
death is a blow so severe that the family--and Kit herself--can
hardly breathe, can certainly not lead normal lives. Yeomans wisely
chooses the effects on Kit's best friendship with Callie to exhibit
Kit's progress through the stages of grief. In addition, because
baseball was central to Buddy's life, the quintet structure of
Warm-ups, 'Regular' Season, Postseason, Hot Stove, and Spring
Training is an effective choice, adding a dimension unusual in verse
novels. Rich with emotion, spare and yet complete, Rubber Houses is
a compelling read. [Suggested Grades: 6-12]
Toni Buzzeo, MA, MLIS <mailto:tonibuzzeo@tonibuzzeo.com>
Maine Library Media Specialist of the Year Emerita
Maine Association of School Libraries Board Member
Buxton, ME 04093
http://www.tonibuzzeo.com
Our Librarian Won't Tell Us ANYTHING! A Mrs. Skorupski Story,
illustrated by Sachiko Yoshikawa (Upstart 2006)
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Please note: All LM_NET postings are protected by copyright law.
You can prevent most e-mail filters from deleting LM_NET postings
by adding LM_NET@LISTSERV.SYR.EDU to your e-mail address book.
To change your LM_NET status, e-mail to: listserv@listserv.syr.edu
In the message write EITHER: 1) SIGNOFF LM_NET 2) SET LM_NET NOMAIL
3) SET LM_NET MAIL 4) SET LM_NET DIGEST * Allow for confirmation.
* LM_NET Help & Information: http://www.eduref.org/lm_net/
* LM_NET Archive: http://www.eduref.org/lm_net/archive/
* EL-Announce with LM_NET Select: http://elann.biglist.com/sub/
* LM_NET Supporters: http://www.eduref.org/lm_net/ven.html
--------------------------------------------------------------------
LM_NET
Mailing List Home