The Good Earth
Pearl S. Buck
⭐⭐✩✩✩
Melina I.
The Good Earth takes place in China during the 20th century and highlights the farming life as well as the family life. The main character, Wang Lung, starts out as farmer, then is forced to flee south due to drought and famine. He then becomes a rich lord with lots of land. Wang Lung learns a lot about being a family man and what it means to be wealthy.
The Good Earth is a wordy classic, but is very meaningful and definitely a rich story; it is well worth the read. The Good Earth is for a 7/8 grade reading level.
Number the Stars
Lois Lowry⭐⭐⭐⭐✩
Danielle Cooke
Number the Stars is one of the most amazing works of historical fiction ever written. It was was awarded the Newbery Medal in 1990 as the "most distinguished contribution to American literature for children". Although this book's setting is rather heavy, it is a wonderful read for anyone in fifth grade, as well as advanced fourth graders.
The story centers around Annemarie and her life during the Holocaust as she works to save her Jewish friend, Ellen Rosen. There are many strong themes that stand out in this book. Among them are friendship, courage, and family.
No matter your reading level, you will certainly enjoy this book. In spite of the fact that the events within are very sad and difficult to deal with at times, the style is sweet and encouraging. This book is perfect for discussion groups and book clubs, but, regardless of how you read it, you will love Number the Stars.
To Kill a Mockingbird
Harper Lee
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Danielle Cooke
To Kill a Mockingbird is one of the best books that I have ever read. When published in 1960, it became immediately successful, winning the Pulitzer Prize and and becoming a classic of modern American literature. It can be a very heavy read, and I wouldn’t recommend it for anyone under sixth grade.
To Kill a Mockingbird takes place in the mid 1900s in Maycomb, Alabama, where Jem, Scout, and Dill are growing up. It tells of a few years of their lives, filled with suspense, mystery, humor, and everything between. The characters seem so real; Jem, Scout, and Dill seem like real kids, and Atticus, Jem and Scout's father, is the best father in the world. You will feel what they are feeling as you read, something that almost feels like magic.
Its humorous, sweet style of writing balances out some of the heavy themes that are prominent in this book, including racial injustice, gender roles, courage, and coming-of-age. If you’re looking for an intriguing, thought-provoking read, this book is for you.
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