Value-Packed Booktalks

In this guide, 100 recommended books and booktalks offer the perfect way to start value discussions with teens and teen/adult book groups.With its focus on current, popular titles, Value-Packed Booktalks: Genre Talks and More for Teen Readers is a flexible tool for all educators—from Young Adult (YA) librarians and readers' advisors at public libraries to school librarians and teachers. Booktalks are provided for young adult literature published between 2006 and 2010, organized by values addressed in specific genres. Examples of discussions show how these booktalks can help teens define what is personally important to them and why.Unique in that it ties current popular genres to values (courage with adventure titles, problem-solving with mystery/suspense), the book focuses on 100 recently published YA fiction and nonfiction titles, offering summaries, lists of themes, values statements, booktalks, and curriculum connections. It also cites passages appropriate for read-aloud booktalks, designates a general grade-range (middle, junior, or senior high school), notes gender appeal for the titles (male, female, or cross gender), and lists similar or related works, some published before 2006.Ready-to-use booktalks and curriculum connections for 100 recently published YA booksInformation that includes fiction/nonfiction/verse/graphic designation, age level suggestion, gender suggestion, lists of themes and topics, summary/description, a value statement, a booktalk, at least three curriculum connections, and five related worksOrganization by values to facilitate relating a book within one genre to a book that addresses a similar value, but is classified in another genreA related works section for each featured title

"This volume provides an in-depth breakdown of nearly 100 books in a variety of categories. Each selection features a title summary, suggested page numbers for read-aloud moments, a sample booktalk, invaluable connections to the school curriculum, and related works. Each category, such as “Problem Solving: Mystery” and “Heritage: Historical Books,” also includes several helpful subcategories, including “Loyalty” and “Equality.” The book includes notable award-winning books, but also features lesser-known titles that would be of value to teachers hoping to connect fiction to their lesson plans. " - School Library Journal, "School libraries should consider this well-designed time-saver an essential purchase." - VOYA

Lucy Schall is a retired high school and middle school teacher, a book reviewer for VOYA, and author of numerous Libraries Unlimited booktalking guides.