Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson

Main topics and themes;

Suggested grade level;

Initial thoughts after reading;
Kristy (poetryteacher27);
Erica;
Erin;
Summary, opinions, and analysis;
Kristy (poetryteacher27);
Erica;
Erin;
Up next;

Coraline by Neil Gaiman

Main topics and themes; Finding the extraordinary in the ordinary, appreciating the things you have

Suggested grade level; I would have to say 3rd or 4th, though the illustrations might be a tad intense for that age

Initial thoughts after reading;
Kristy (poetryteacher27); This is a hell of a lot like a younger, shorter, version of Clive Barker's "The Thief of Always"
Erica;
Erin;  This book reminds me of Alice in Wonderland (which I love), so I knew this would be interesting to me. 
Summary, opinions, and analysis;
Kristy (poetryteacher27); While Coraline is a great character, and the theme of finding the extraordinary out of the ordinary is fantastic, Erica and I found it very hard to talk about this book without comparing it to "The Thief of Always". I love Neil Gaiman, and his writing in this book is superb, however, the story has been done before. Moreover, it feels a bit confused as far as audience, in that, it should be for younger kids but the Dave McKean illustrations would surely bring on nightmares to anyone under 12 years old (or me).
It is a good story, fantasical, and imaginative, but definitely not the author's most original work, and not one that I would ever feel the need to bring into the classroom.
Erica;
Erin; Like Kristy, I didn't think there was anything particularly unique about the story, but I did enjoy it.  The plot is very reminiscent of the Narnia books or Alice's Adventures in Wonderland - but a touch darker.  I probably enjoyed it so much because these "old house/what's behind the door" stories are my favorite.  The writing was clever and  kept my interest.  It was a fast and easy read, and a real page turner - even though I pretty much knew how it would end.  I would recommend it.
Up next;Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson

Star Girl by Jerry Spinelli

Main topics and themes;
Kristy (poetryteacher27); Society's (mis)perception of those who are "different"
Erica; The othering of those who refuse to conform to societal norms, Individuality as a threat to the whole
Suggested grade level;
Kristy (poetryteacher27); 6th, 7th, maybe 8th (setting is in a high school, so it may be good for readers who may be behind but do not want to read 'kids books')
Erica; Agreed. Although set in 11th grade, this is no discussion of typical 11th grade concern. No mention of impending escape via graduation, college applications, or any other typical concerns of a 16 year old.
Initial thoughts after reading;
Kristy (poetryteacher27); I want to be Stargirl, What the heck is wrong with Leo?,Why does he never get over her? Slightly predictable plot, Should have a young audience (younger than the characters in the story), The very ending feels contrived though I am happy over the "leaving without a trace" moment
Erica; Like the open ending. Slightly disappointed by all of the missed opportunities. Very stereotypical herd mentality in the high school. A complete lack of outsiders beyond Stargirl.

Summary, opinions, and analysis;
Kristy (poetryteacher27); For the age it is targeting, Stargirl is a great piece that functions as a lesson on individuality and the issues with conformity. The problem with Stargirl, however, is the direction it almost takes, but does not. For instance, with the character William Parr, the story had such a build up with him as a leader of the school, as involuntary as this position may be, it is so disappointing when it isn't him who signed up to join the ukulele band or who asks Stargirl to the dance. I wanted to see him break free from his very flat character for at least a moment. How great would it have been to say to the reader "look! even the most conformed of the group is unique in some way!" Despite missed opportunities like this, Stargirl serves it's purpose well. Stargirl's peers only like her when they can get something from her unique, non-conformist, ways. It is a statement on how we are often uncomfortable with uniqueness unless we can use it to our advantage. The moment we can not understand motivations for actions, we deem them as weird or odd. This could lead to a great classroom discussion at an age where children are far too susceptible to other people's opinions.
Erica; The story is almost allegorical in the fact that all characters stay true to their nature. Stargirl, despite her independent thought, finds the best option to be running away from the situation she faces. Leo ages but does not seem to mature much mentally. Even fifteen years later, he is waiting for Stargirl to return for another chance. Many of the characters could have been flushed out more and evolved through their association with Stargirl. This lack of change leaves the reader feeling slightly unfulfilled. While we all wish we knew a Stargirl, I'd like to think she might alter those around her more.
Up next; Coraline by Neil Gaiman