Teacher Picks

Skyview staff pick their favorite books...most of these can be found right in the Skyview Library!

Mr. Lewis - Librarian
	To Kill a Mockingbird Author: Harper Lee This is one of my absolute favorite books of all time. It's the story of Jem and Scout Finch who are growing up in the 1960's in a small Alabama town. Through the tragic events of one summer, they learn the meaning of injustice and the importance of not judging a person "until you climb inside of his skin and walk around a little." This book should be required reading for the entire world!
Ms. Miller - 8th Grade History
	Out of the Dust Author: Karen Hesse Out of the Dust is a great novel about a young girl in Oklahoma during the 1930s Dust Bowl. Billie Jo describes her life with her widowed father and the hardships they faced during this major historical event. The novel is written in the style of journal entries and keeps the reader turning page after page. A great read for boys and girls alike. Check it out today and become submerged in the era of dust storms that could rival the best snow blizzards of the our time.
	Fever 1793 Author: Laurie Halse Anderson Fever 1793 is an award winning novel about the Yellow Fever epidemic which struck Philadelphia in 1793. The story follows the struggles of a young girl, Mattie Cook, and her family. Mattie battles yellow fever herself and watches as all around her are affected. The characters and setting keep the reader wondering how anyone could survive and what will be come of the great city of Philadelphia. A great novel for the general reader or the avid history buff. The author also included a description for which events are historically accurate within the novel. Check it out today and read this historical fiction about one of the worst epidemics in American History.
Mrs. Bley - Business
	Anne of Green Gables Author: L.M. Montgomery When I was younger my mom would read to me the story of Anne. Anne of Green Gables tells the story of a young girls life. You will find out that the trials and tribulations of growing up are something that everyone experiences.
Mr. Heaston - 7th Grade Geography
	Winterdance Author: Gary Paulsen The book details Gary Paulsen's 1983 Iditarod dog sled race odyssey. From training to finish, you'll find out what it's like to compete in this grueling 1200-mile race. Ride along as Paulsen experiences encounters with skunks, moose attacks, dogfights and more!
Mrs. Wendlandt - 6th Grade Science
	White Fang Author: Jack London The main character (White Fang) is a very intelligent and ferocious dog. I really like how the author explains his life, his parents' lives, and the realities of life in the harsh Arctic. His descriptions are realistic and engaging.
Mrs. Scott - 6th Grade Special Ed
	Kira-Kira Author: Cynthia Kadohata This book is about the life of a Japanese family and their travels and transition from Iowa to Georgia in the 1950's-60's. The sister relationship is deep and the family dynamics display reality and love.
Mrs. Williams - Counselor
	The Outsiders Author: S.E. Hinton This story has something for everyone: fighting, romance and adventure. You really get to know the characters and root for them. I have read it many times and always cry at the end.
Mrs. Strodtman - 6th Grade Math
	From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler Author: E.L. Konigsburg This book keeps your attention and makes you want to read more! The main character, Claudia is 12 years old (similar to the age group of the 6th graders I teach). Full of adventure!
Mrs. Murphy - 6th Grade Ancient Civ
	Series of Unfortunate Events Author: Lemony Snicket The whole series is funny, exciting, and just kind of wacky. The orphans go through some crazy adventures and are always followed by a crazy Count Olaf! Great vocabulary too!
Ms. Streib - 7th Grade Language Arts
	The Watsons go to Birmingham - 1963 Author: Christopher Paul Curtis It's really funny and it takes place during a historical time where events in the book actually occurred in real life.
Mr. Taylor - 7th Grade Geography
	Manhunt: The 12-Day Chase for Lincoln's Killer Author: James L. Swanson The author does a great job telling history as a story. I thought I knew a lot about the Lincoln assassination, but it actually has a lot more to it.
Ms. Hodnett - Counselor
	Sula Author: Toni Morrison The development of the characters and the layer of the plot is so rich and complex. I love this book from the first page through the last pages.
Mrs. Shealy - 7th Grade Math
	The Magician's Nephew Author: C.S. Lewis The Magician's Nephew is the prequel to The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. It is the quirky beginning of a well-renowned series. I saw the movie before I read any of the books and it was fascinating to see how the story began. This book is full of adventure, entertainment, unbelievable magic, and laughter.
Mrs. Magnall - 7th Grade Math
	Charlotte's Web Author: E.B. White It's a classic tale of friendship. I've loved this book since I was a child because of Fern's love for the animals and the interesting personalities of each of the barnyard friends.
Ms. Holt - ESL
	The Bluest Eye Author: Toni Morrison This book is very heart-wrenching. The message is very powerful. The storyline is written from three different perspectives. The format changes throughout the book in order to emphasize the different feelings of the two narrators. Toni Morrison's use of imagery is amazing. She creates pictures in your mind and leaves you wanting more.
Mr. Moore - PE
	The Last of the Breed Author: Louis L'Amour It is about an officer in the Air Force that is captured by the Soviets. He escapes from an area in Siberia and how he survives trying to get back to America.