Category: ReadMe

Oh So Delicious

KITCHENS OF THE GREAT MIDWEST by J. Ryan Stradal

            An expertly interwoven tapestry of unique perspectives, character development, subtle mystery, and exquisite recipes, KITCHENS OF THE GREAT MIDWEST is a must read. Stradal has established a steady, even paced plot that brings the main character Eva Thorvald to life amidst the crises of a world that is sure to resonate with all audiences. Readers should appreciate the opportunity to be immersed in the life of Eva Thorvald and all those who leave lasting impacts on her kitchen; their hearts will break with hers and their minds will grow strong with her undeniable determination. In an act of wizardry, the elements of this novel form a world so real that readers will begin to love and care for Eva as if she was a dear childhood friend. What is more, readers will be inspired to continue the pursuit of their wildest ambitions after being part of Eva’s journey. It is recommended that this novel be read with snacks at hand as the mouth-watering descriptions of Eva’s creations are sure to make you hungry! This novel integrates the use of varying perspectives and would prove to be a wonderful opportunity for high school students to analyze how character voice can be a tool to manipulate information provided to readers. It should be noted that issues explored within KITCHENS OF THE GREAT MIDWEST include loss of a parent and struggles with substance use that may be sensitive to some readers.

Hopefully you’re persuaded to read this

PERSUASION by Jane Austen

            Short and sweet just like this post, PERSUASION by Jane Austen is the equivalent of a nineteenth century must watch Sunday matinee. This novel follows the life of Anne Elliot and associates after her estranged love interest, Captain Wentworth, re-enters the scene. Of course, the return of Captain Wentworth prompts several love triangles to emerge. No spoilers here though, you’ll have to read to find out if the characters get their happy ending! Throughout my reading of the novel I kept asking myself why I had not been asked to read this in high school. That said, I challenge high school English teachers to encourage their students to read PERSUASION, or better yet, to incorporate the novel into their courses. In particular, I think it is important to note the opportunity for students to explore character development in PERSUASION through dramatic readings of the novel, or for students to create their own theatrical interpretations of scenes from the novel.

Read and Reflect

RADAR GIRLS by Sara Ackerman

            More than just a pleasure read, Sara Ackerman’s RADAR GIRLS opens the door to reflection concerning gender roles, the significance of historical technological development, and what it means to work together. The story details the fictional life of Daisy Wilder in Hawaii following the bombing of Pearl Harbour during WWII, focusing on her peer relationships and contributions to the implementation of radar detection. Daisy’s actions force readers to ask themselves what it means to be true to oneself, how to maintain integrity, and what they value most. Although readers will be likely to gobble up the story stuffed with humour, emotion, and basted in romance faster than last Thanksgiving’s turkey; it also presents a greater opportunity to extend readers’ learning. Suitable for high school student learning, RADAR GIRLS offers cross-curricular applications including history (WWII), civics and history (evolution of gender roles and women’s rights), with the potential for some science and technology (function and application of radar technology). On a beach, to pass the time on a road trip, cozied up on your sofa, or in classroom student centers, this novel is thoroughly enjoyable and a worthwhile read.