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I have finished a little over half of The Thief Lord and I have enjoyed it so far. Funke uses a lot of great imagery which I love. She also does a good job of leading the reader to believe characters are set in their ways. When in reality, they end up changing for the good. By that I’m mainly talking about Victor. In the beginning of the book he seemed to be out to get Prosper and Bo no matter what. But by the middle of the book whenever he is captured by the kids, you find out he really does want to help them. He even lies to Prosper’s aunt and tells her that Prosper and Bo have left Venice. I have to admit though, no matter how nice he continues to become, he seems a little strange to me. I think it is a little weird when he is introduced to us in the beginning while he is trying on high-heeled boots and camouflages in his spare time, even though I know disguises are necessary to his line of work. Also he is overly attached to his two turtles and they seem to take up most of his thoughts outside of detective work. But all of that aside, I was not expecting the first twist of the novel. I don’t want to spoil the surprise for someone else who might read this. I’ll just say that when Victor goes to talk to the owner of the Stella, I was expecting him to find the address to the theatre and nothing more. I’m eager to find out what the next surprise will be and who The Conte really is when the children go to give him the wooden wing.

I must say that I am a very slow reader and in order for a book to keep my interest the beginning needs to be entertaining. I am finding that it is too slow for me in the beginning. I know that things are going to start happening because the book is setting everything up. I just want the thing or things to actually happen!! The author has developed great characters which make the book fun but right now something is missing for me to say I LOVE the book. I do like it and feel it is a great read for fifth grade reading level. This book offers a lot of description and the student must be able to comprehend the text to be able to fully understand the story. When I write paper I very often lack description and imagination. So by reading this book it makes me want to write more descriptive because the story is more interesting. The author makes it look so easy to write the way she does but in reality it takes a special person to write like she does. I feel kids would like this adventure but also this adventure could turn into reality for a kid that reads this. A kid could be having troubles at home and just want to run away. So after reading this book, they see that running away can be fun. And since Prosper and Bo can do it and survive they might feel they could too. I am just being devil's advocate here. I not really sure that it would happen but I guess anything can!

After reading the first half of the book I found myself really enjoying the book and wanting to continue reading to find out what will happen next to the loveable characters. I really like the pace of the book and the way that it has many surprises to keep the reader interested. I also really like the use of imagery and how well she describes the landscape of Venice to children who most likely have not been and have had limited exposure to it. But I wonder if some of Cornelia Funke's more vivid imagery would be lost on some children and confuse them. I also liked how the reader could learn more about the characters through their reactions to the events that occurred and the decisions they made when they were faced with certain situations. I think that this book has many characteristics of a good children's book because of the diversity of the characters in the book. Their varied physical appearances and personalities also allow for all different kinds of children to be able to relate to one or more of the characters. It also allows for the reader to learn about a city in a foreign country. One problem I have with the layout of the book is that the glossary of Italian words is in the back of the book and something I did not discover until I was well into the book. I wish this would have been in the beginning of the book or there would have been some sort of footnote telling the reader it was back there so I would have been able to refer to it as I came across the Italian words in the text.

I have read up to about page 117 and I was just sorely disappointed with the revalation with Scipio. I had a hunch from the beginning that Scipio was not really an orphan or a child with an unfortunate life, and I was ready to blog about it, but the secret was revealed before I could blog about it. This has given me mixed feelings about the book. I feel like Scipio is keeping a lot from the other kids and it's unfair to them. He does take very good care of them but now I think of Scipio as some little rich kid that just wants to have some extra fun on the side to defy the rich lifestyle he lives in.

But I completely love the way Cornelia Funke describes Venice and the way she utilizes the city as the children's playplace. I feel like I know Venice now because of all of the description in the book. The descriptive words and terms she uses, such as 'splashing', 'slurping', and 'gurgling' and the sentence "And then there was the gentle whisper of the city." She makes Venice seem like a woman who is watching over the city and the children. She makes things happen for them to help them hide when they need it.

It is so easy for the group to escape from Victor. I do feel so extremely sorry for him because of what Hornet did to him in the square, but I also don't want him to catch the kids either. I am very curious as to what will happen next since Victor now knows where their hideout is. I cannot wait to see what happens next in this story.

I finished the entire novel, and I have to say that I LOVED this book! While reading, I realized that if I were a child, I would have been absolutely enthralled at the idea of a group of runaways who squander and steal to survive and live on their own without any adults to aid them. The plot hits on a fantasy that I am sure many kids have thought about at one point in time. What surprised me the most about the book was when I realized that Scipio was the son of a wealthy man. In the beginning of the novel his character is portrayed as all-knowing and he is so confident for such a young child. I was honestly disapointed to find that he only stole items from his own house. From that point on, the Thief Lord's character seemed to change. He was more cowardly and acted more like a child than an adult. I feel like Cornelia Funke did an amazing job of incorporating a sense of family into her novel, even though it was about a group of homeless runaways. The children became a family unto themselves and they were always helping each other. For example, Hornet took on a motherly role, and constantly cared for Bo and the others. Prosper was an excellent example of a responsible older brother. He did everything he could to keep Bo safe, and tried his hardest to steer him away from dishonest actions, like stealing. Even though the group of children did not seem like a "traditional" family, they cared for each other like one.

So far, I have read most of the book. I am not completely done with it but I feel that this is an excellent book. The author uses many literary elements to help develop the story and make it an enveloping read. Funke's characterization is very strong. The Temple text describes characterization as "the art of creating people out of words on the page". It also states that strong characterization is done so that the reader feels like he or she has gotten to know another person. I have read very few books where I feel connected to the characters and am affected by what happens to them in the book. In The Thief Lord I feel that Funke did a great job of characterization because I have been greatly affected by the occurrences of this book. For example, when they come back to their hiding place and Bo and Hornet are missing, I really felt scared for them and sad for Prosper. It is a great thing to be so involved in what happens in a book that your own emotions begin to spring forward. I feel that is the work of a great author.

I can honestly say that this book has become one of my favorite books. As I was reading it, I could not put down! Funke uses so much strong imagery to make the reader feel as if he or she is actually there. I really got an amazing picture of Venice in my head while reading this book. I also felt really connected to the characters. I was truly concerned for them during some parts of the book and at other times, I wanted to lecture them. She also does great job of including the literary element of intriguing, unexpected passages and plot-twists. There were quite a few of those! One passage that I found to be the most unexpected was when the children discovered Scipio was not an orphan, but a wealthy child. Another unexpected event was when the Prosper and Scipio went back to the Isola Segretta and found that the merry-go-round really did work. I was very excited while reading the book as an adult, I know that children would be just as or even more excited.

Ok, this book is amazing. I finally got to that "NO WAY" spot. Who knew Scipio was a little rich boy who has everything he wants? I knew he had a little secret, but I didn't expect it to be that. I seriously went "NO WAY!" to myself when I found out who his father was. I'm a slow reader, so I'm hoping I can finish this book by Wednesday, so I'm taking every bit of down time to finish it. I'm really anxious to find out how the "job" will go, and just how they will get away with it...if they do. I'm also excited to see how Victor will handle all of this. He seems to be falling for these children and I think he's going to become emotionally attached and let Prosper and Bo go. He may even help out the rest of the runaways. I'm ready to find out. More will come later after I've finished. So far, I'm in love with this book.

When you look at the points made in our Temple book about qualities of outstanding children’s literature, Cornelia Funke has written an OUTSTANDING book. She teaches the kids what Venice is like when she describes the city to us. Not many kids know about Venice so when an author writes about a place like this they are expanding their imagination of the world. Another great thing that she does that I really love to see in stories is that she teaches the kids a lesson. At the same time she does not over do it! One lesson that I think she teaches is to always tell the truth. For the thief lord he had a secret and in the end his secret hurt him and his friends! I enjoyed each character that she introduced to us because she allows us to be able to relate to them. She made the characters believable to where we go out and match everyday people with each character in her novel. Now with literary elements her plot was huge. She kept the reader on his/her toes! Once you think the book might be done or that you have figured things out, she throws you a curve ball. This is what is going to keep the kids from just throwing the down or even just simply reading it and not enjoying it. Books like this one can encourage the kids that books are fun and exciting you just have to find the right one. I did mention in my first post that the book was just ok. I do believe that the book did get better but I also feel that there are even more exciting books out there. I am not exactly sure what caused me not to love this book. The only thing I can think of is that too much happened and I might have felt it dragged on, but along with that I felt she needed to include everything that she did. The book would have been incomplete if she did not write it like she has. So in other words I just cannot pin-point what I did not like about the book. Overall when looking at the criteria for a good book she has covered all her bases. She had strong characters, great imagination for the reader, and she intertwined fantasy with real-world, which is extremely difficult.

"Prosper stared at his hands. A child's hands. He thought of the condescending look he had received from the porter at the Sandwirth. He thought of his bulky uncle an how he had walked next to Bo, his hand possessively on his brother's thin shoulder. And suddenly Prosper wished that Scipio were right. He wished that out there, on that island, there really was something that could turn the small and weak into the big and strong. And suddenly he knew he what he wanted to do. Without another word he jumped into Scipio's boat." (p250 last paragraph)

I am really pulled into this scene with Prosper. I feel like I am him and that I completely understand what he is feeling and thinking. I really enjoy how i can just become a character in this novel.

I am very close with my family so when I read this they are the first and only thing that pops into my head. I can easily relate to the love that Prosper portrays here. I could not bare someone stepping in between my family and I. I would be furious.

What great memories this scene allows me to reminisce on. My brother and sister are protective of me and this lets me remember all the crazy things they did in order for me to understand that I really should not make the decision that i was about to make. T

This scene is very important because it is leading up to what is going to happen on the mystery island! But will or wont Prosper go through with becoming older?? That is the real thriller!!

At this point, deep down I hope Prosper does not go through with becoming older, because I feel he is going to regret it later.

I wonder why so many children just want to grow up and miss some of the best years. At the same time why do people want to get younger? I love just living in the moment and enjoying my journey/story.

I am about halfway through this book and I have mixed feelings. I am really enjoying the plotline that Funke is carrying. The idea of all these runaways roaming the streets of Venice is so captivating. If I was in 5th grade reading this, I would be estatic. As a college student reading this it blows my mind to think of how these precious kids are living all alone. The reason I have mixed feelings on this book is I am having a hard time getting completely wrapped in the pages. I feel as if the beginning was semi-slow and almost predictable but at the same time I would find myself wondering what was next. Maybe I am just a slow reader or this entire long labor day weekend with ASU winning has captured more of my attention. I am heavily confused about Scipio. The fact that he is around the age of 12 or 13, close to the age of the others, and their leader is strange. I have yet to read others comments on this page because the reaction Dr. Frye has about this book is huge and I dont want to blow the story. I love that Funke captures Venice. Since reading the last book, Venice has been on my mind. She uses an entire new outlook to give you the impression of what Venice is truly like. My favorite character so far is Hornet. She just seems to be so witty and on top of things. I'm going to continue to read hopefully getting more enthralled in the book as the story hopefully picks up a little!

Halfway into this book, I had read at least three seperate "NO WAY" parts. Funke really captured my attention, there were so many turns and twists just in the first half of the book that I could not wait to read the rest. Though the novel looked pretty thick, the reading went by quickly due to the suspense aspect of the story. I love the plotline of having children who run away to the great city of Venice and become part of this family of streetkids who survive by relying on their "thief lord" to provide a life for them by stealing. Who knew that Scipio was leading seperate lives and leading his friends to believe he was this great almighty "thief lord" when in fact he was from a priveledged family. I can see how a child in the upper elementary grades would be excited about reading this novel. This novel is an exciting way to learn factual information about Venice, and also is just a plan fun book to read.

The Thief Lord pg. 191-192
“Prosper could feel the snow in his hair, wet and cold. He remembered a faraway time, and an almost forgotten place. He remembered a hang gently wiping snow from his hair. He stood there, between Hornet and his little brother, and lost himself in this memory for a few precious moments. He realized to his amazement that remembering didn’t hurt so much anymore. Perhaps it was Bo and Hornet standing by his side, warm and familiar.”

This is my favorite passage from The Thief Lord. It is so descriptive. It was one of the first passages towards the end of the book that really provoked a good, homey feeling inside of me.

I love snow. I have fond memories of playing in the snow ever since I can remember. I used to love it when it snowed at home in Hickory because it usually meant we got the day of off school. It also meant that the whole day was going to be spent outside playing with my brothers.

Snow has a magical way of stopping real life and bringing people together. In this passage Prosper realizes how much he cares about Hornet and Bo. He feels comfortable and safe when he is with Hornet and Bo. Snow makes people take a second out of their hectic day and appreciate Mother Nature. Even up here at App snow captivates people’s attention and imagination.

Even though I love snow, the imagery isn’t even my favorite part of this whole quote. My favorite part is the sentence, “He realized to his amazement that remembering didn’t hurt so much anymore.” I love that sentence. It shows that Prosper is finally getting used to his new life and has moved on from his past. He has found a new family with Hornet, Bo, and the others.

This is one of the only parts of the book where it seems like Prosper is truly at peace with himself and the world. The snow gave him a brief moment of happiness that he deserved so much.

I have just finished The Thief Lord. It turned out to be a pretty good book. There is no denying that Funke is a great writer. Her plot had so many twists and turns that even if you predicted one thing, there was something else that would throw you off. She had a great protagonist, Prosper, whose main conflict was based around his little brother. Children can easily relate to family problems, especially when they involve siblings. Most children might read this book and wish they had Prosper’s problem and that their annoying little sibling would vanish. But hopefully in those situations those readers will re-think their feelings towards their siblings by the end of the book. She also teaches children important lessons in honesty and enjoying childhood while you can. Although, I do agree with Ashley when she said that there was something missing from this book to make it an outstanding book in my mind. It took me the longest time to figure out what it was, but during the very last couple of chapters in the book I figured out why I personally am not completely in love with this book. There isn’t enough comic relief until the very end when Barbarossa turns into a child. I can’t decide whether Funke was trying to make Riccio be a funny character or not, but to me he is just kind of annoying. I know Prosper’s situation is not a funny or happy situation to be in, so it makes sense that there isn’t much to laugh at in the book. I just like to read books that have some humor and happiness in them. But don’t get me wrong, it is a very good book.

I'm a little more than half way through the book and so far I have enjoyed reading this book very much! I love the plot line. I admire Prosper and his strength. He goes to great lengths to take care of his brother Bo and to keep them together. Funke keeps you interested and on the edge of your seat, waiting to see what will happen next with the runaways. I'm also anxious to see how Victor plays out in this novel. I wonder if he'll give the children up to their aunt and uncle or if he'll help them? I'm really excited to see how the novel plays out, but so far I have really enjoyed reading it!

I thought this book at in the beginning was slow and boring. I found myself falling asleep in the library reading it. After about 60 pages or so it began to pick up and I didn't want to put the book down. I wanted to keep reading to see what was going to happen. At first I didn't like Victor Getz. I didn't want him to catch the children. I really liked how he changed and ended up helping the children and became like a father. I was completely shocked when Scipio ended up being rich and stealing the things from his own house. He seemed like a very confident person until Prosper, Bo, and the others found out who he really was. Then he seemed to be a lot less confident. Hornet seemed more like the motherly type. She seemed to take care of everyone. Prosper tried to take care of his brother and think if his best interest. I liked how Bo seemed like a typical child. He acted like anyone his age would unlike Prosper, Hornet, Scipio, and the others. I also didn't expect the merry-go-round to work or for Barbarossa to break it. I really liked how the children formed their own family. They were runaways but they created a family and cared and looked after each other. I didn't expect Barbarossa to be working with the Conte but I liked how he got stuck as a small child. He seemed to get what he deserved. I also liked how the story talked about how children want to be grown up and grown ups want to be kids again. I think this is very true. When you are little you can't wait to grow up but once you do you wish you were back in the good old days.

I must say this is one of the most interesting books I have ever read. I found myself not wanting to put this book down. I give a big thumbs up to Cornella Funke. She really did an outstanding job on keeping my attention throughout the whole book. I loved how the book described everything so vividly. I felt like I was actually there and seeing what was going on. So many times people fail to realize how important it is to give a lot of attention to imagery and detail. An example would be how The Star Palace was described. "Dusty wire cables stuck out from the ceiling where there had once been large chandeliers. The children had strung a few naked lightbulbs running on batteries and even throughout the large room, and even in their dim light you could see the plaster coming off the ceiling." I really felt as if I were standing in the old movie theatre with them. Not only was the scenery described well but the characters as well. I felt like I could have picked Bo out of a crowd by the way he was described. Another thing I really liked about the book was the unexpected plot twists. Just when I thought I knew what was going I was fooled. I never would have guessed that the Thief Lord was actually the son of the owner of the old theatre that they were all seeking refuge in. It was little twist like that which kept me focused and wanting to read on. As I said, this was an amazing book. It gave a lot of attention to detail and always threw in the plot twist keep you on your toes!

The Thief Lord is a pretty good book so far. When I first started reading it, I couldn't get interested in it. After about the first 10 chapters, the book grabbed my attention and the only reason I put it down was if I had other homework to do. Cornelia Funke is a very good author and I wouldn't mind reading more of her books. I love how close Bo and Prosper are as brothers and how close all the rest of the children become. It really makes me mad that an aunt and uncle could choose between two brothers like they are. When Victor Getz was first introduced, I was thinking bad news and that he would be a real mean man. Turns out so far he's actually a pretty good guy. I'm still shocked that Scipio, after all this time, was lying about everything. He pretended to be the worst of them all and acted like he knew how to survive on his own. I think in a way he was kind of mocking the poor children that are having to survive on their own. Now I’m going to read the rest of the book to find out the other twist Cornelia Funke is going to throw into The Thief Lord.

As I've been reading this book, I've found so many passages that stick in my head. Funke uses such wonderful words to create vivid imagery.

pg. 195..."She let the world snow melt on her tongue like a delicious, creamy chocolate."
When I read this, I literally pictured the receptionist letting the word roll off her tongue in a dreamy, soft manner, as if she was so delighted by the snow that she couldn't help but smile and think happy thoughts as she said it.

pg. 235..."She looked at the bare white walls that surrounded her. For the hundredth time, she closed her eyes so she could see another room in her mind's eye, one with a curtain full of stars, and a mattress surrounded by books that whispered their stories to her at night."
In this passage, I feel so sad for Hornet. She's stuck in this cold, plain place, but as she closes her eyes and pictures the other place, I can see it with her. I picture a room dressed in red, with bright yellow stars, and animated books smiling back at her, where she's sitting on a plush thick matress; almost like a queen.

pg. 247..."Prosper heard the canal water slosh against the base of the wall."
I just love her word choice; "slosh." I can really hear the water "sloshing" against the wall. There's no better word to describe the water.

This book has such great imagery. Cornelia Funke knows what she's doing to captivate the reader.

I believe that The Thief Lord meets all of the standards for outstanding children's literature. One of the most interesting themes that I picked up on while reading the book was that the children seem to be living like adults and many of the adults seem to be immature and child-like in their actions especially Barbarossa. I believe that this theme is illustrated in the scene with the merry-go-round. I believe that the merry-go-round is a symbol for the transition of the character's true personalities into either adults or children. Prosper wasn't ready to make that full transition into being an adult and I believe that this is why he chose to live with Ida instead of trying to fend for himself. I believe that if Riccio and Mosca had been there at the Isola Segreta, that they would have probably made the transition from children to adults. Overall I really enjoyed this book because it is a really interesting adventure story that I believe children can relate to and it has a lot of factual information and Italian vocabulary.

As I was reading The Thief Lord, I couldn't help but wonder why Riccio and Mosca never chose to live with Ida. During the entire book it seemed as if Riccio dreamed of having parents and when the opportunity faced him, he chose to live with Mosca in another "hide-out". This baffled me because Ida seemed like she genuinely wanted to accept all of the children so that they wouldn't have to be orphans. Mosca never seemed like he wanted to live with an adult but Riccio on the other hand wished he could find a good loving home. I was just wondering if anyone had any opinions on this topic?

This was the neatest book to read! I loved the characters and I just can't believe all the turns! My favorite characters were Ida and Victor. I said in my first post that I didn't want Victor to get hurt but I also didn't want him to find him. His role turned out so great! And I loved the idea of them connecting.

I still love the imagery of Venice being almost a goddess, always watching over everything the kids did. I loved the passage when Prosper was so upset, before Bo came back, when he wanted the pigeons to poop all over Esther. Venice seems to me to be a comforting city that will always protect you when you need help.

I am not sure yet how I feel about Scipio staying grown up. I feel sorry for him in a way but I also am glad that he is living the way he wanted to live while being The Thief Lord. Thinking realistically about living life like that, it would be unfortunate to have to give up so much of your childhood. I was ready to grow up sooner but I sure am glad I didn't grow up any faster. I also wonder what happened to the merry go round and to Renzo and Morosina. I wonder how they enjoyed their second childhoods and how long it took for them to want to be grown up again. This was an AMAZING story!

There were many beautiful passages about Venice, Italy but one of the passages that stuck with me the most was towards the end of the book.

The passage reads, "Fine. Here's one last condition." Victor finished a mint out of his desk drawer and popped it into his mouth. "You will tell your father." Scipio's face darkened. "What am I going to write to him?" Victor shrugged. "That you're all right. That you're going to go traveling. That you'll look in on them in ten years or so. You'll think of something." "Darn!" Scipio spluttered. "OK, I'll do it. If you teach me how to be a detective."

This passage haunted me because I can only imagine if I were Dottor Massimo how upset I would be to know that my child vanished without a trace. Even though he seemed cold and heartless throughout the book, he still seemed like he cared about Scipio. Unlike Esther, he clearly put in effort to find Scipio by announcing a missing ad in the newspaper. He seemed to really want to find his son, granted I am puzzled by the Dottor's overall character.

This passage really bothered me because I hope that Scipio honored his word and will write his father even if he doesn't want to live with him. His father may have treated him much younger than Scipio would have like to have been treated but it seems as if his father were always available unlike his mother.

I still have not quite finished the book yet, but I have all day tomorrow to read because I have only this class. So far, Funke has really been an intriguing writer. I love the way she describes things. I have vivid images with every sentence I read. My favorite characters so far are Bo and Prosper. The love that the two brothers have for one another is great. By Funke showing the compassion of the two brothers, it sets an example for the children who read the book. This book is easy reading and I am excited to finish it.

I must say that I have enjoyed reading this book much more than the Magic Tree House Series. This is definitely more my style. The plot is more intricate and the characters are more developed. I am somewhat surprised that this is a 5th grade reading level. It seems more advanced, but that is just my opinion. The twists throughout the plot kept me reading. The characters were highly developed and continued to surprise me with their actions and the relationships they formed through the novel. The descriptive nature of literature was also more my style. I could picture the settings including the hideout and the overall nature of the city. Overall, I was thoroughly impressed by the book and I would definitely read this book in my class and do a study of the author as well. She is a very talented artist indeed. Great choice!

I agree with everything everyone is saying! In contrast to my first blog I was getting really fustrated with how slow the beginning was to me. All of a sudden I hit a point where I couldn't put the book down. Krystal made a good point saying how the plot kept twisting and as soon as you thought you knew what was going to happen something else would. Funke does an amazing job at capturing your attention in these runaway children. I believe Megan Snyder blogged earlier about Prosper being the protagonist. I never really thought about how other children could relate to him until she said something. Children do go through so much these days and within this character children can relate. By the end of the book they too could realize how important family and siblings are. Funke also does a great job of detailing everything so greatly. She gives so much detail that it allows your mind to imagine the scene so perfectly. You can not only imagine the scenes but almost smell them. I never expected the runaways to actually somewhat befriend Victor in the process. I still have a few pages left to go and I cant wait to finish!

I tried to respond to another individual's response, but it didn't like that idea! So I'm responding here! I agree with the child vs. adult comment. The children in the novel definitely took on the role of adult especially Mosca, Riccio, Prosper and Hornet. They took on the responsibilities that most adults would have at young ages. Barbarossa on the other hand took on a childlike persona by his interest in antiques as playthings. It didn't surprise me with the switch because the characters were able to reflect their true selves through the switch. This book was so amazing!!! I was extremely impressed!

I will have to agree with Rachel on everything she said in her first posting. The fact that Funke was so descriptive throughout the novel was definitely "my style" as well. She kept my attention by making what I was reading full of imagery. I also am enjoying this book quite a bit more than Carnival at Candlelight, because the book was written for an older age group. I believe that some students in middle school could read this book. I don't believe that this book would have interested me as much in 5th grade because I don't believe that I knew much about Venice then. It is fun to read about it now because I know where it is and I know a little history about it. I believe that unless someone shows you pictures of Venice and explains some of the history of Venice this book may be somewhat hard to follow in the 5th grade. I believe that Funke is a wonderful author and is amazing at capturing the reader's attention with the twists and turns as the novel ends. Great novel!!

I enjoyed the Thief Lord very much. I enjoyed the Magic Treehouse, but the Thief Lord presented a more in depth look at the genre of fictional fantasy. I loved the character Prosper. I sensed that the character was trying to cope with the fact that Aunt Esther was refusing to take him by looking to the city of Venice for comfort. I particularly liked the passage "he wasn't homesick-he hadn't been for a long time, not even at night. This was home now. The city had welcomed Bo and him like a great, gentle animal. It had hidden them in its winding alleys and had enchanted them with its exotic sounds and strange smell. It had even provided them with friends. Prosper didn't ever want to leave again. Never. He had grown so used to hearing water smack and slurp against wood and stone." (9. Everybody is Small at Night, pg 63). This passage struck me as very interesting because I could almost feel the pain in Prosper's heart. Venice was comfort, but an animal still the same I interpreted. I could tell that Prosper was trying to stay strong for Bo, but Prosper was still a child and living under the Thief Lord far from a perfect childhood. Children should be nurtured, loved, and even spoiled. The story of this unlikely childhood brings tears to my eyes when I think of my niece and nephew. I would never want them to endure conditions such as these and have to cope with feelings of such strong pain, frustration, and fear. Although the book is fantasy, the children are pitiful, and the feelings expressed by the characters are often felt by the readers. I feel that this book is an excellent example of extraordinary literature.

I totally agree with Rachel with the characters switching roles. Prosper was alway a strong character that played many adult roles including caring for his younger brother Bo. I also agree that red beard was childlike with his antiques. I thought that red beard's maturity was displayed by his intrigue with his "play things." I loved the book! A truly great read!

I just now finished reading this novel and I really enjoyed it! Funke is a great author and I would love to read one of her novels again! The Thief Lord and Carnival at Candlelight were different in that the imagery in Funke's novel was wonderful! Her description in this novel made me feel as if i were really there experiencing the same things as the characters in the novel. My favorite character in this novel was definitely Prosper! I loved how he took care of his little brother Bo and the others! I love how he takes on the role as an adult and does everything possible to keep himself and his brother together! Funke also does a wonderful job of keeping you on the edge of your seat, wondering what's going to happen next! I couldn't believe that Scipio turned out to be a rich kid! I was shocked! Although this book started out rather slow for me in the beginning I really enjoyed it once I got into it! It's a wonderful novel for children to read and I would love to read some of Funke's other works.

p. 277

"But Prosper didn't move. Even though he could picture himself, tall and grown-up, striding into the Sandwirth and simply pushing Esther and his uncle out of the way, then marching out with Bo by his side, he still couldn't step on to the merry-go-round."

I found this passage to be a bit suprising. My first thought was that Prosper would ride on the merry-go-round so he could rescue Bo. I'm glad he didn't choose to do so though.

I can relate to how Prosper was feeling at that moment. When I was younger, I always wanted to grow up and be big, but at the same time, I don't think I would have changed a thing.

Through the entire book, the reader can sense how much Prosper loves and cares about Bo and vice versa. This passage illustrates those feelings because Prosper thought about giving up his childhood just so he could save Bo.

I wonder, what stopped Prosper from getting on the merry-go-round?

I had many favorite passages from the book but I chose one from page 180.
"'In return," Ida Spavento continued. ‘We will follow the Conte when he disappears with the wing. Perhaps we can find the merry-go-round of the Merciful Sisters. I’m saying we because I will be coming with you. That’s the deal.’ She looked eagerly at her visitors. ‘So, what do you say? I won’t ask for any share in your reward. I already make more money than I can spend with my photographs. I’d just love to see the merry-go-round once. Go on, please say yes!’”

I chose this passage because of the characterization of Ida Spavento. This is soon after Cornelia Funke introduces us to her character and while the children are still inside her house after they had broken in. I really liked the way Funke has Ida’s character transition back and forth from a gracious grown woman who didn’t turn the children in for breaking into her house to an excited and childlike character who wants to take a risky adventure to go see a merry-go-round. You learn that Ida is deeply connected to her past as an orphan and that is willing to take an adventure. In this passage Ida is a shining example of a person that has grown up but can still hold onto characteristics of a child. It gave me hope that if Scipio did use the merry-go-round that he would be able to do the same. I thought this was interesting because Scipio just wanted to grow up but he doesn’t realize how much he will miss being a child while at the same time Ida wants adventure and an opportunity to reconnect with her childhood by seeing the wing on the merry-go-round. It was a unique connection between the two characters who knew so little about each other.

I agree with Mandy when she was talking about feeling sad for the children and everything they are going through. I have a younger brother and younger nieces and nephews that I could never imagine having to live on their own and not have anyone that loves and cares for them. I also wanted to talk about the Plot-twist that shocked me the most. Never in my wildest imagination would I have thought that Scipio was a normal kid living in a palace with his parents. The whole time I figured he had just been on his own for the longest time and so he knew how to survive on his own. Cornelia Funke was smart to put that twist in the Thief Lord. It really changed the direction the book was going and made the reading more interesting. It kept me wondering what was going to happen next with Scipio and if the other children were going to forgive him or forget about him.

This book was so good. I was afraid I wouldn't be able to finish it before class, but I did and now I'm excited to discuss it with the rest of the class. It was such a magical book that captivated my attention the entire time I was reading it. I loved the relationship between Prosper & Bo. Prosper took such good care of Bo, and Bo seemed to really rely on Prosper in time of need. Hornet was also a favorite character of mine. She held such great composure throughout the entire book. She was like the support of the whole gang. I'm glad all 3 of them ended up together in Ida's care. In my previous post, I mentioned that I thought Victor would let the kids get away. I'm so glad I was right. Victor, although he seems tough, has a very kind heart and I know he would fall for the kids. I only wish he and Ida would have ended up falling in love, but that's the hopeless romantic in me. I guess that would have been a little too mature for a 5th grade reader. The merry-go-round added such a great twist, and the fact that Scipio changed into an older man, and Barbarossa changed into a young child was so hilarious to me. It surprised me that Barabarossa wanted to be with Esther, but I guess luxurious living is important to him. Too bad he ended up in a boarding school. I just don't understand how Esther could just leave Prosper & Bo in Venice without a second thought. I did NOT like her at all. All in all, this book was adorable, and I can't wait to read it outloud to my class when I become a teacher. I would really love it if they turned it into a movie. I would definitely go see it if it came out in theatres.

p. 277 "But Scipio had already slipped off the lion's back and on to the sea horse. 'What are you waiting for Prop?' he called out impatiently. But Prosper didn't move. Even though he could picture himself, tall and grown-up, striding into the Sandwirth and simply pushing Esther and his uncle out of the way, then marching out with Bo by his side, he still couldn't step on to the merry-go-round."

I was really impressed with Prosper in this passage. I remember thinking to myself "If that had been me at Prosper's age I would have gone on the merry-go-round in a heartbeat". I was mainly impressed with the fact that he actually thought about why he shouldn't get on. He knew that he had Bo to take care of and he probably wanted to grow up with Bo in the normal way. This passage really shows Prosper's character as a person. He is a thoughful and responsible boy for his age.

I also wondered if Prosper would have jumped on the merry-go-round if he did not have a younger brother to take care of. I wonder if he would have been as responsible and thoughtful as he is if he didn't have a younger sibling. I feel that because Prosper was thinking of Bo he decided not to get on and become older so that he could take care of him. I think that Prosper would have gotten on had he not had a sibling.

"But not even her happiness could chase the sadness from Prosper's face. They had all tried in their own way: Riccio with his jokes, Mosca by showing Prosper all the strange things hidden behind the dark doors in Ida's house. Nothing helped: Not even Ida's candy nor Victor's reassurances that he would think of something to help Bo. Because if Bo wasn't there, Prosper missed him like a lost arm or leg". p. 246 par. 3.

This paragraph really makes you understand how sad Prosper is without his brother Bo. Everyone tries to make him feel better but nothing works. I can relate to this part because I always am the one person trying to make someone feel better when they are sad. I hate to see people upset or in a bad mood so I will always try to do something stupid or funny just to get a smile out of them.

The last sentence also really touched me because I have a younger brother that means the world to me. By just reading the sentence, anyone can relate to the simile about "missed him like a lost arm or leg" because we can just imagine what it would be like to not have an arm or a leg. But this sentence is really saying that missing a brother is like missing apart of you. There is an indescribable relationship between siblings and I think the sentence really explains it. So I agree with Prosper, missing a brother is like missing a huge part of you.

"The Hartliebs had been right: Prosper and Bo had indeed managed to ge to Venice. They had traveled a long way, squatting in rattling trains, hiding from conductors and nosy old ladies. They had locked themselves into stinking toilets, slept in dark corners, squeezed tightly together, hungry, tired and frozen. But they had done it, and they were still together."

I really love this passge from the Thief Lord. I feel that this passge really helps the reader set the stage for what the characters are experiencing. Setting is very important in a stroy. It allows the reader to imagine themselves in the characters position. Although Venice is often times described as a beautiful and magical place, it is important to realize that Prosper and Bo seen both sides of the city. Being runaways they had experienced the alley ways, cold, and dark places. I think this passage not only helps someone visualize the setting but it also shows some very important character triats of Prosper and Bo. Not to many would continue to be run aways and have to live in those conditions. Prosper and Bo were brave, young indivduals who perservered through the trying times. Their love and dedication to each other can be seen through this passage.

"The other three children missed the two boys badly. Bo cried his eyes out even though Hornet tried to tell him that they were, after all, staying in the same city. To take Bo's mind off things, Victor took him to St. Mark's Square to feed the pigeons. Ida showed Hornet the school she and Prosper would be going to in the spring. But every evening before going to bed, Prosper stared out of the window, wondering what Scipio was up to." p. 336 paragrah 4

This passage shows now close all the children were. They had formed a family and now part of their family was gone. They always looked out for each other and took care of each other and now that they are split up they can no longer do it. I wonder if they will ever see the two boys again.

Bo is too young to understand that the boys are still in the same city. When you are that age you have no concept of the fact they can be living in the same city as you. Hornet can try to explain as much as she wants but Bo won't understand until he is older.

Victor has come to love these children which he shows when he takes Bo to feed the pigeons to take his mind off of missing the two boys. Victor's character has completely changed from just looking for Prosper and Bo as his job to caring and helping the children out.

I like how Ida takes Hornet to see her new school. I think it shows that they have started a new life and will be able to be chidren instead of being the grown ups taking care of each other. I also think it shows that they are forming a new family. I wonder how Prosper and Hornet will like school and how Bo will take it when they are gone during the day.

I wonder like Prosper what Scipio is up to also. Has he found a job? Has he found somewhere to stay? Is he running around actually stealing things from other places this time to survive? If I was in Prosper's shoes I would also be concerned about what my friend was doing especially now that he was older.

"Dusty wire cables stuck out from the ceiling where there had once been large chandeliers. The children had strung a few naked light bulbs running on batteries throughout the large room, and even in their dim light you could see the plaster coming off the ceiling. Only the front three rows of seats remained and each of those was missing a few chairs. Mice had built their nests in the soft, red upholstery. The movie theater's screen was hidden behind a thick curtain embroidered with golden stars. The curtain was moth-eaten but it had kept its old splendor. The golden thread on the pale blue fabric still shimmered full of promise, and Bo had to touch the golden stars at least once every day."

I love this passage because it describes the movie theater, which is the runaways' home. Even though it is shabby and run down, it means a lot to the kids. It provides them with shelter, warmth, and a place for them to come together as a "family". Even the mice have built comfortable nests within this home!

I especially like the description of the golden stars on the fabric. The fabric shimmers "full of promise" and it seems to foreshadow that the children will be okay, that they will be able to live safe, fulfilling, and adventurous lives. The fact that Bo had to touch the golden stars at least once every day demonstrates the precious hope of a young child. Its almost as if he does this every day in order to ensure that good things will happen to him and his friends.

I felt like using the movie theater as a hideout was appropriate for the plot of the story because movie theaters are always full of mystery. Watching a movie is a way to be transported to another place and time. In a way, the runaways live in their own little world, unknown to those around them. Stepping into the abandoned movie theater is like leaving Venice and arriving at a safe haven for the children.

This passage made me wonder if the children would always feel this safe in their hideout. Would something or someone compromise the one place that they could call home? How long would it be before the police or a passerby spotted them entering the hideout? The fact that Bo touches the stars every day makes me feel like he might not always get to touch them, that someday he will be taken from his home.

WOW! I was in complete shock when i put down the picture book "What Do You Do With a Tail Like This?" This was a great shock. this book was not ever talked about in class or setup so i was not sure what to expect. I kind of just thought it would be an easy read and that would be that. Was i completely wrong. This was so informative and inventive. Every time that i turned the page my smile would get bigger. I loved how i was able to guess what animal the nose or foot belong to. I did not get all of them right some i actually had no clue. Then when i turned the page i got to learn about the animal and what that animal does with that particular body part. It was so much fun. Basically the text and the plot of the book impressed me very much. Along with the text the pictures made the book come alive for me. I constantly felt the pages because i thought the animals were coming out of the book. I do not know if i was suppose to feel this way but i did. The time and attention the illustrator gave paid off because this book was real and informative and fun. All of this rolled into one must have been extremely hard. I loved this book and can't wait to read it to my class and see their reactions.

"But just one round, to start with! Barbarossa shifted his massive body forward a bit further and grabbed a pole with his ringed fingers. "Who knows, if the stories are true...I mean, I wouldn't like to turn into a little midget like that one there," he said pointing down at Renzo, "but a few years..." stroking his bald head and laughing.."who wouldn't want to shed a few years, eh, Dottore?"

I loved this passage in the Thief Lord. I found it very interesting that Barbarossa was as eager as he was to jump onto the carousel and ride it to begin with, and then that he said he wanted to "shed a few years." Barbarossa was such a child at heart he was literally a child trapped in an adult's body. I was not surprised when Barbarossa turned into a child the size of Bo, for this is truly his real state. Even though Barbarossa wanted to become a child again I thought it was quite funny that he turned into such a small child with such immense limitations. Sometimes I think that being a child would be nice again; a carefree, a stress free, responsibility free life would be good at on certain ocassions, but you still lack the total control of your life. Barbarossa was basically a lazy adult who wanted the perks of adulthood but the responsibility level of a child. I feel Barbarossa got what he deserved, and I also feel that he will be a horrible "Thief Lord."

I was so amazed while reading the picture books. The illustrations in these picture books were amazing. Particularly in "What do you do with a tail like this?" I thought that the bright colors evoke one's senses and stimulates imaginations. I also felt that the creativity of the storyline and animals was very catchy for young children. The white background in the book made the pictures more vivid and eye catching to children as well as adults. The isolated text with the animals was a great way to draw attention to each individual animal. I also loved the fact that science was integrated so heavily in this book. The descriptions in the back of the book were also a nice addition I thought.
"Moses, When Harriet Tubman Led Her People to Freedom" was also a fantastic book. I loved the fact that you could follow the storyline and the changes in mood with the color scheme used by Kadir Nelson. The colors used in this book were also very stimulating for the reader. I believe that the author's purpose in writing this book was for the reader to experience a smalll portion of the pain and the struggle that was experienced by African Americans during the time of slavery. The images presented along with the diction used by author Carole Boston Weatherford was amazing. While reading the book it was almost as if you could feel the pain that Harriet was experiencing. I also liked the print that was used for the text in the book. I loved the fact that when God was taking to Harriet the text was very bold and in all capital letters. To mean that exemplified the power of the God, and the importance of his instruction and direction.
I have to say I have never looked so closely into pictures books, but the are overflowing with imagery, symbols, characterization, and perspectives. I loved this unit on picture books!

Prosper opened the door of the ermergency exit and shuddered as the cold air assaulted him. It was a starlit night and the moon shimmered on the canal behind the movie theater. The houses on the opposite side were dark-except for one window, where a light still shined. Someone else who cant sleep, Prosper thought. A few broad, worn steps led down to the water. They looked as if they led all the way to the bottom of the canal. Deeper and deeper, and into another world.

I love this passage! The fact that the word assaulted is used in context to describe the cold air is brilliant. While reading it makes you almost feel the cold air that Prosper is feeling. It sets the tone well as we learn Prosper is worried and cannot sleep. The cold air just gives a tight mood.

I love how every detail is described so well. The author uses the word shimmered which gives another great detail of imagery. In the next sentence we learn Prosper cant sleep and notices someone else in the surrounding houses cannot sleep as well.

The next part of the passage gives me chillbumps. The author speaks about the steps leading to the canal in saying, "deeper and deeper, and into another world." You cant help but to just want to jump into the page and hug Prosper. It sets the somber mood he is in as if he too would rather be in a different world.

It was so exciting for me to read Ashley and Mandy's comments. Their enthusiasm for the books is contagious. Both pointed this out, but I want to emphasize the importance of reading the author's note in the back of the book. This additional information provides so many important insights.
There is such a contrast in the illustrations between the books; I look forward to reading additional comments.
Happy Reading. Dr. Frye

I took some different books to the Afterschool program where I work and read them to my children. They LOVED it! I took a book from our author study, Mrs. Mack by Patricia Polacco. It was a higher level picture book and it took about 2 days to read it. It was about a girl spending her summer at a horse ranch and learning to ride horses. My boys were all acting like it was the most boring book ever because they would have rather been playing with their Pokemon cards, but they never took their eyes away while I was reading the story. While I was reading the story, one of my boys kept saying, "There's that old man in the background!", in every picture. He caught before even I did this man who turned out to have a big role in the plot line. I was surprised at how perceptive they all were. I asked them what their favorite parts were and one boy was like, "I don't have a favorite part." (That worried me a little.) Then he said, "My favorite part was the whole thing." I was glad to hear that!

Then I took in The Wildest Brother and Pirate Girl by Cornelia Funke and Llama Llama Red Pajama by Anna Dewdney. I think Llama Llama Red Pajama should be about a late Kindergarte n reading level, and they loved that too! My boys were especally glad to read The Wildest Brother, since it was more for their type of people. It was a fun experience reading them all of these stories, just to see how much they enjoyed it themselves! I plan to take in a couple of picture books for them each week!

"Anything else? Ah yes--Barbarossa...Esther carried on believing for quite a while that he was the most wonderful child she had ever met--until she caught him stuffing her most precious earrings into his pants pockets and then discovered in his room an entire collection of valuable items that had mysteriously disappeared. Tearfully Esther sent him off to an expensive boarding school where Ernesto became the terror of his teachers and fellow pupils. Dreadful things were said about him: that he forced other children to do his homework and to clean his shoes, that he even encouraged them to steal things, and that he had given himself a name that everyone had to call him. It was 'The Thief Lord'."

This passage from The Thief Lord makes me laugh a bit! Funke did an excellent job wrapping up the story by describing what became of each of the characters in the story. In this instance, Barbarossa, the antique salesman ended up riding the Merry-Go-Round making him younger. He was a perfect match for the lovely yet prude Esther, which is what makes me laugh. Esther assumed he was going to be the sweetest child, but quickly found out otherwise. The two deserve each other! I really like this passage mainly because it reveals Barbarossa's true nature as well as Esther's. It almost reminds me of Dudley and Mrs. Dursley from Harry Potter. I think kids can get a laugh out of this passage because, as the reader, I wanted some kind of revenge on Esther, as would many other readers agree.

After reading What Do You Do with a Tail Like This? and Moses: When Harriet Tubman Led Her People to Freedom I was enthralled with the works of both authors and illustrators.
In What Do You Do With a Tail Like This? the text was highly informative. Small blurbs about was each animal does with his or her nose, tail, eyes, ears, and so on, had me asking for more about the specific animals. And lucky for me, there was additional information about each animal at the end of the book. This could be helpful for students doing projects on animals. This book is also fun in that it can be used as a guessing game of sorts. Asking students to identify the animals by their noses and ears, and mouths can be fun. The written blurbs about each animal were presented in interesting ways. For example, the words projected from the skunk's tail as if it were really spraying that stinky perfume. However, I was most impressed with the illustrations in this book. The illustrations are cut-paper collages! This gave me a 3D visual in a sense. You can see the texture in each animal, which is very appealing to the eye. Overall this book was beautiful and entertaining.

Moses: When Harriet Tubman Led Her People to Freedom was another remarkable picture book. The story was beautifully crafted. I really liked the way the auther chose to represent dialogue. When Harriet speaks she has her own font that is slightly larger than the narration. When God speaks the words are much larger and in a grayer font color making it seem more abstract. The author includes a description of slavery in the foreward, prepping the audience for what is about to happen in the story. She also provides a brief synopsis of Harriet Tubman's life. Both are essential to the story. They illustrations of this book are incredible! The richness of the colors, the visions of night, and the shadowing are amazing visual effects. I'm almost speechless when it comes to the illustrations because they are that moving and beautiful.

Both of these works are remarkable in their writings and illustrations.

Welcome Gloria and Joe!

I mean what I said, I MISS picture books. I'm an art nerd so i love being about to have amazing pictures to look at while I'm reading a great book. After reading three completely different picture books this past week I've remembered the good old days when my mom used to read them to me. I used to love listening to her read me stories and having parents come into my classrooms and read to us. I have been so impressed with not only the stories from the picture books I've read, but how unique the illustrations are. My favorite illustrations so far have been from What Do You Do With a Tail Like This? I've just never seen such realistic collages in a picture book. My third book that I chose to read besides the two required this week from class was Princess Pigsty. It was one of the other books by Cornelia Funke, the author of The Thief Lord. This book definitely shows the diversity of Funke's writing abilities. Princess Pigsty is so cute! I loved it! If you liked to get dirty or messy or just hated wearing dresses when you were little, you need to read this book. The main character, Isabella, will remind you of yourself when you were younger!

I chose to write about the additional picture book that we had to read for this week. I read Peppe the Lamplighter. It is a "feel good" multicultural book about a young Italian immigrant living in Little Italy before electricity. Peppe got a job lighting the street lamps to help support his 7 sisters and his sick father. He is so full of hope and just wants the best for his sisters even lighting a lamp in their honor as well as one for his father and his deceased mother. It is a great example of the American Dream and holding on to hope for the future. It also teaches Peppe and his father that all jobs are important and that he should appreciate what Peppe is doing because lighting the lamps helps the people of the community move around after dark as well as helping guide his family members home. In the end Peppe gets the respect of his hard to please father and Peppe once again is able to take pride in lighting the lamps of Little Italy.

I just love picture books! The first one I decided to read was Moses: When Harriet Tubman Led Her People to Freedom because the cover was attractive to me and the subject interested me. I thought it was so neat to see how the author took a historical story and compiled it into a childrens book. The illustrations are so beautiful that I would find myself staring at the pages for a long time. I love how they took up the entire page, really capturing every detail of the story. This is such a great book to use when talking to students about slavery. The cover flap on the front gives a great background to what is actually taking place. This is informational for students being that not everyone is going to already know the story of Harriet and by just reading the book they still may miss. The foreword is also informational in describing slavery and the procedure. I am so glad this book was one we had to buy because I want to keep it on my living room bookcase. I really enjoyed it! What Do You Do With a Tail Like This? was such a fun book. What a great wait to integrate animals and their functions into a not so boring approach. My favorite part was that the words were spread on the pages around the animals. The end of the book that had further information on the animals was so helpful for students to take further interest or to learn why exactly an animal using that function for a specific purpose. I personally liked to try to guess what the animal was before turning the page and seeing the full animal. Children would love this! Such a good read!

I mean what I said, I MISS picture books. After reading three
completely different picture books this past week I've remembered the
good old days when my mom used to read to me. I used to Love listening
to her read me stories and having parents come in to classrooms and
read to us. I have been so impressed with not only the stories from
the picture books I've read, but how unique the illustrations are. My
favorite illustrations so far have been from What Do You Do With a Tail
Like This? I've just never seen such realistic collages in a picture
book. My third book that I chose to read besides the two required this
week from class was Princess Pigsty. It was one of the other books by
Cornelia Funke, the author of The Thief Lord. This book definitely
shows how diverse of a writer Funke is. Princess Pigsty is so cute! I
loved it! If you liked to get dirty or messy or just hated wearing
dresses when you were little, you need to read this book. The main
character, Isabella, will remind you of yourself when you were younger!

"But the children just wandered off without paying him anymore attention. They only had eyes for the snow. The cold flakes settled on their faces and their hair. Bo gleefully licked one off his lip. He stretched his arms wide as if he wanted to catch them all. Hornet just looked up at the sky, blinking. It hadn't snowed in Venice for years. The people they passed looked just as enchanted as the children. Even the shop assistants stepped into the street to look up at the sky."

I love this description of the children in the snow. They seem to me like normal kids in the snow, enjoying that wonderful childhood pleasure that children become so enchanted by. To me, this brings back their innocence, since they are in the works to make the deal with the Conte at the time when the snow occurred. When Bo stretched his arms wide to catch all of the snowflakes, that picture is what I think of with any child in the snow. I believe I still do that today when I play in the snow. What a great childhood and adult ritual.

I absolutely loved these two picture books! What Do You Do With a Tail Like This? was so informative and fun. The illustrations were cute also. I really liked how the book was set up so that students can guess which part belongs to what animal. Children can learn so much about different animals from this book. I also really like the extra information in the back of the book. Moses: When Harriet Tubman Led Her People to Freedom was beautiful. The illustrations were amazing and so detailed. What a great way to introduce the topic of slavery to your classroom. I liked how the foreward at the beginning explained what slavery is. This is really beneficial for younger grades who have never heard of slavery. I also thought the author's note in the back contained great and useful information about Harriet Tubman. I also liked the different text throughout the book. This made it easy to tell the difference between Harriet and God's dialogue. These were by far some of the best picture books I've ever read.

After reading What Do You Do With a Tail Like This? and Moses: When Harriet Tubman Led Her People to Freedom I realized there are many different kinds of picture books. I always remembered picture books being fun stories about make believe characters but after these books my opinion certainly changed.

I was completely shocked when I began reading What Do You Do With a Tail Like This? I went into the book expecting it to be about some animal that had a really big tail or something like that what they did with their tail. I didn't expect it to be an informative book about different animals and what they actually did with their noses, ears, tails, eyes, mouths, and feet. I liked how the book only showed you a part of the animal where you had to guess what animal it was and what they did with it. I had no idea what some of the animals where or what they did with that body part. This would be a great book to get kids interacted and guessing what animal they thought it was and what that animal did with each part. I also liked how the back of the book had more information on the animals. This is a great book to integrate with other areas of the curriculum. The children could each pick an animal in the book and do a project on that animal.

I loved reading Moses: When Harriet Tubman Led Her People to Freedom. At first I wanted to go through the book and look at all the pictures without reading. They were beautiful pictures that caught the reader's attention. The different fonts also caught my attention. I liked how the narration, what Harriet was saying, and what God was saying were all in different fonts. I thought it made it a lot easier to read. I also liked how the author provided information on slavery before reading the book and more information on Harriet Tubman after the book. The information on slavery helps the reader to have a better understanding of what was happening with slavery. The information on Harriet Tubman helps the reader know more about her life. The children have just read a book with a little about what she did but this provides a lot more information.

Overall I thought these were great books to use in the classroom.

When I was reading Moses: When Harriet Tubman Led her People to Freedom I thought that it was amazing how the illustrator, Kadir Nelson, interpreted Carole Boston Weatherford's wording into such beautiful pictures. While I was reading the text I got a feeling of being alongside Harriet when she was lost in the woods and the only hope she had of making it came from her spirituality. My favorite part of the book besides the illustrations was the historical description located in the back of the book. I love history and even though I have heard many of that information before, I had never known that Harriet threatened some of her "passengers" with a gun to keep them from turning back. In the picture book What Do You Do with a Tail Like This? I really thought it was neat how every animal was conveyed in their own natural habitats. This would make it easier for children to get a sense of why the animals have certain behaviors due to their various ecosystems. I also loved how there was such a thorough description of each animal in the back along with what makes them unique. I had never heard about the horned lizard before and so after reading the book I immediately looked it up in an encyclopedia. Although both books were very different I believe the illustrations along with accurate descriptions is what makes them worthy of their awards.

This week, the 2 picture books I read were really good. While "What Do You Do With a Tail Like This?" is a good, informative book, I enjoyed "Moses" much more. This book was so inspirational, and it really taught me the importance of having faith and relying on God when I'm worried about things. Throughout this whole book, Tubman found God in nature and she had faith that He really was leading her on her journey. The illustrations were amazing and this is a book I want to take good care of, just because of the quality illustrations, and the meaningful story in the book. I love love LOVED this book!

Moses and What Do You Do With a Tail Like This were both amazingly informative picture books that break the mold of the normal picture books that you may see in stores today. I think that many people fail to see that picture books are not just for young children. They can be beneficial to older children too because they capture their audiences with riveting artwork and interesting facts. When I read What Do You Do With a Tail Like This I was expecting it to be much more juvenile than it actually was. The book was packed full of important facts about a wide variety of animals. As I was reading the book my mind was just overflowing with ideas about how I could relate the book to the classroom! Moses also had a similar affect on me. I was captivated by the artwork because it really served to show the determination of Harriet Tubman, and what she had to go through in order to be a free woman. I believe that this book can help students relate to Harriet because the beautiful artwork will immediately draw them into the story. After reading these books I will never let anyone say that picture books are only suitable for young children. Kids of all ages can learn from them, and they can be helpful supplements in the classroom!

When we were first assigned to read What Do You Do With a Tail Like This? and Moses: When Harriet Tubman Led Her People to Freedom, I expected them to be like the picture books I remember. I remember picture books having a few words and lots of pictures. I don’t even remember the pictures being very detailed, kind of like cartoon pictures. I was very shocked after reading both of these books. The illustrations were amazing. Kadir Nelson and Steve Jenkins are very talented. Both illustrators brought the pictures to life with their use of their artistic medium. In Moses, the way Kadir Nelson drew and painted Harriet Tubman’s face really portrayed how she was feeling at the time. Carole Boston Weatherford did a great job in bringing in an important woman in history through a story. Robin Page did a great job with informing the reader about the different animals and their body parts and how they use them. I thought it was great how both books had extra information in the back. I learned a lot more about what certain animals were and where they are from. It was good to have a recap of who Harriet Tubman was and how courageous she was. Her story really made realized that everyone needs to have a little more faith in God and trust that he’ll lead us in the right direction and protect us. Harriet Tubman sure knew he would.

The complete title of this book is "I'm Gonna Like Me: Letting off a Little Self-Esteem" by Jamie Lee Curtis and Laura Cornell. I must say that this book was absolutely wonderful. I loved the concept and the illustrations. The main idea of this book is to show kids that it is okay to make mistakes and that you should love yourself no matter what. To quote from the book: "I'm gonna like me when I don't run so fast. Then they pick teams and I'm chosen last." The illustration for this line shows the little girl prancing around happily even though she was chosen last for a team. I think it is so important for kids to understand that not being the best is okay and acceptable. This book really shows kids how to be themselves and love themselves for who they are as an individual. This will definitely be a book I have in my classroom. The concept is great and the illustrations are ones in which children would find humorous.

This week I read two picture books that were cute and informational. The first book titled Moses was wonderful. The illustrations were detailed and beautiful, and the storyline was told perfectly. Everyone should be knowledgeable about the story of Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad. I liked how it portrayed a sense of hope and life to the reader and at the same time presented historical reference to the past. What Do You Do With A Tail Like This? was the other picture book. I liked how you learned something from each page, and how the book was set up so you were always looking to see what would be on the next page. Both books were great and I could see them being excellent books to share with kids.

These picture books were just wonderful!! I can honestly say that I have never read such informative, picture books than What Do You Do WIth A Tail Like This and Moses. First, I read What Do You Do WIth A Tail Like This, and before I cracked the cover I thought it was a lower level elementary book but I was wrong. This book was very informative and had wonderful illustraions. I feel that this book would be a great to intorduce animals and their different lifestyles and habitats. It creates curousity in the children when only the pictures of the tail or eyes are shown. A picture book such as this would be so appropriate for upper elementary kids. Moses was also a wonderful picture book. I found myself just flipping through the book looking at the illustrations. This book was illustrated so wonderfully. I could see and feel the emotion that Harriet was feeling. Slavery is something that everyone learns about and this book is perfect to read during that time. I cannot say enough about the illustrations because to me, they tell a story within themselves!! Great picture books!!

"All five of them were there: the unicorn, the mermaid, the merman, the sea horse, and the lion, who now spread both his wings as if he'd never lost one. They each hung on their pole beneath the wooden canopy, and seemed to float. The merman held his trident in his wooden fist, the mermaid looked into the distance out of pale green eyes, dreaming of the waters of the open sea. The sea horse with its fish tail was so beautiful, it made you forget that there were horses with four legs at all." (Page 275)

This description of the carousel is awesome. I can just imagine the detail and how strong each of the animals/merpeople must have looked. When Funke uses the word float it makes the image seem very still. Also the description of the merman made you imagine him as strong and powerful. The description of the mermaid made her seem sad and lost with the ocean. The description of the sea horse seems like it would be quite an amazing sight if it were to make you forget that horses have four legs. Funke amazes me with her descriptions throughout the book, with this one being my favorite.

The book that I read this week was Animalia written by Graeme Base. All I have to say is that he is absolutely brilliant and very talented. The book is so neat, it goes through the alphabet and on every page he uses alliteration for each letter. For example: "Great Green Gorillas Growing Grapes in a Gorgeous Glass Greenhouse." Then in his illustrations he has hidden pictures of things that start with the letter G. The illustrations are beautiful and he is so clever to have thought of the hidden pictures. You can definitely incorporate this in the classroom in several ways. First, it can help children identify the letters of the alphabet. Secondly you can help children identify what pictures are hidden and why they are included on the page with the specific letter. I have read several of Greame Base's books and they are all incredible and beautifully illustrated. He is the author that I chose for my author study and I am excited to learn more about him.

The extra book I chose to read this week was The Water Hole, by Graeme Base. I chose this book because my partner and I chose him for our author study. I thought that this picture book was wonderful, and the illustrations were absolutely beautiful! This picture book is a counting book. The story counts from 1-10 and with each number the water hole gets smaller and smaller. Eventually, the water hole disappears altogether. What I found so fascinating about this picture book is that with each number the setting takes place in a different country. The picture explains it all. In each background there is an illustration of what that country would look like. Another thing I find so interesting about Graeme Base's work is that in all his illustrations you can find animals everywhere, but you have to look very closely. I think this book is a great way to integrate math into the classroom and at the same time the children would really enjoy looking at his illustrations because they are so detailed and beautiful. I definitely look forward to doing further research on Graeme Base because I think his work is wonderful!

One of the many passages that stood out to me in The Thief Lord was a paragraph found on pg. 57. This paragraph read:

"Riccio quickly stuffed two of Barbarossa's bills into his pocket and dashed off. When he came back with a plastic bag full of olives, bread, pepper-red salami, and a bag of mandorlati, the chocoloates wrapped in colorful paper that Scipio liked so much, the others had already spread the cushions and blankets in front of the curtain. Bo and Hornet had gathered all the candles they could find and their flickering light filled the movie theater with dancing shadows."

While reading this particular paragraph I got a visuable image of eveything that was going on. I loved how Funke described all the children gathered together for this fest. I can picture cushions and blankets in front of the curtain, and the candles that are flickering in the dark. I love how she compared the dark room to a movie theater with dancing shadows. It makes me want to be there.

This passage reminds me of when I was little and my twin sister and I would have sleepovers with our friends in our treehouse. The treehouse would be completely dark and all of us would gather together in our sleeping bags and tell stories with our flashlights. I always loved watching our shadows on the wall because they were so large. I love how Funke describes the children's shadows as dancing in the dark because that's what I remember most about having sleepovers in my treehouse when I was younger.

Hello Everyone,
Again, thanks for completing your surveys! Let me know when you begin the reading!
I found a wonderful web site for you to explore:
http://www.oyate.org/aboutus.html
See what you think!
Also, please check out author Joseph Bruchac's web site:

http://www.josephbruchac.com/

Again, welcome Joe and Gloria!
Dr. Frye

Hi Joe and Gloria! I’ve begun reading Geronimo and so far there are two great things about Apache culture that stand out to me. First I’ve enjoyed the descriptive story telling. I love when Willie stops and reminisces about stories that Geronimo had told him in the past. I have a question though. During the train ride he talks about how stories are only told during the winter. Does this mean that all stories are only told in the winter or is it okay to tell children stories in the summer if they need to learn a lesson? Also I love the similes used in this book. They are all so detailed and centered on nature, for example when he says, “It was as hot in that room as a mountain lion’s breathe.” The second thing I’ve noticed about Apache culture from the book is how honest and generous Native Americans are. There are points in the book when Geronimo and others are nicer to the White Eyes soldiers than they would ever be to them. The Apache’s even fed the soldiers instead of themselves in certain instances. Also they kept their word. This is very impressive to me. I can tell that Apache Native Americans really put others before themselves and that is an admirable trait.

Hi Joe and Gloria!

It is so wonderful to have you share your experiences and stories on our blog. I'm grealty appreciative of ya'll taking the time to blog with our class. I am so interested in hearing what you have to say about your culture and Geronimo. I am actually American Indian. I'm apart of the Sappony Tribe which is located in Roxboro, North Carolina. We are a small/medium size tribe that is located on the border between Person County, NC and Halifax County, VA, we live in what is called the "High Plains" community. Our tribe consist of about 850 members..thats the number on the roll..there are more. I take great pride in my heritage and love to share my knowledge with others about American Indians. There are so many misconceptions and steroetypes that the media portray to our young and youth that they really sometimes don't understand what its like to be Native or anything about our culture. If you would like my tribes website is www.sappony.org, feel free to look on the website and learn more about us. Again, thanks for participating in this and I'm excited to hear what you have to share.

Krystal

Dá nzho (Hello, Greetings),

Joe and Gloria Beltran say hello to Dr. Frye’s class. Joe and I have been reading the book “Geronimo” with much interest. Joe and I belong to the Apache Nation.

Joe’s mother was full blood Apache born near the San Carlos Reservation in Arizona. However, he is not certain if she was of the San Carlos or Chiricahua Apache band.

I am Chiricahua Apache on my mother side. My grandfather’s father, on my mother’s side, was from the Chihene (Red Paint) band of the Chiricahua located in the Southwest region of New Mexico. My grandfather’s mother was from the Bedonkohe band of the Chiricahua. She was from Geronimo’s band.

My grandmother’s mother, on my mother’s side, was also Chihene. My grandmother’s father was French Canadian. He was in the U.S. Cavalry and fought in the Indian Wars in New Mexico. We have always wondered how a U.S. Cavalry soldier that fought in the Indian Wars against the Apache ended up marrying an Apache.

On my father’s side, I am Apache but don’t know from what band. His mother and father passed away before I was born; therefore, I never got the opportunity to talk with them about their ancestry.

Joe and I look forward to discussing “Geronimo” with you. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to share them with us. We will do our best to answer your questions.

I have really enjoyed reading this book so far. I like the way it is told in the form of a story like it would be passed down from one member of the tribe to another. I think it gives the reader a feeling of being included into the culture for at least the time when they are reading the book rather than being an outsider looking in. The imagery I have seen has also been so descriptive and related to the earth and nature and refers to things that Native Americans would most likely have experienced. There are also so many other forms of figurative language, such as the onomatopoeia found on page 120 of the “CLACK-CLACK” of the train wheels. I think it would be a great exercise for a class to review figurative language by writing down the different examples and identifying what they are as they were reading the book. I have learned so much about Apache life and culture from this book. I especially liked the section from pages 66 to 73 where the cultural differences between the “White Eyes” and the Apaches are discussed. There were so many opposite beliefs such as how they felt about gold, how the threats of Skinny Yellow Hair made the Apaches feel and their different belief systems.

I am so glad that you could join us and give us some insight while we read Geronimo! First of all, I am pretty ashamed that I did not know more about Geronimo before I began this book. I had no idea about his accomplishments or importance in history and I am disappointed that I was so ignorant! This book has given me more insight into his life as a great warrior and spiritual leader while also helping me understand more about the Apache people. One thing that I found interesting about the Apache people is that they seem to show a lot of respect to women. For example, Lozen, who can foresee the future, is shown extreme respect by her tribe. The book says that she "was truly the equal of any man in battle". I find it very interesting that her status as a woman does not hold her back in any way. Also, another thing that I learned is that many Native Americans tell stories by telling other stories! I think that this book is an example of that because the author is trying to tell the reader about Geronimo's capture and trip on the train, but he reflects back to the events that have happened before the capture so that we can better understand who the kind of person that Geronimo is. I am glad that I am learning more about the Apache people and I know that I will continue to encounter more interesting things as I delve further into the book!

I just wanted to say hello to Joe and Gloria and thank you for reading along with us and participating in our blogging. I am really excited to hear what you guys have to say and your reactions to the book. I am ashamed to say I had never heard of Geronimo before and I know little about Apache people but hopefully that will all change after reading and talking with you guys. I have started reading Geronimo and it is very interesting. I love the way the author tells stories through other stories to get across to us what he wants us to know. When I think of people getting mistreated, Indians do not really come to mind. After reading the first few chapters, I realized I’m way wrong. After reading so far I am curious about a few things. Joe and Gloria, on page 34, it says “We Apaches value the truth. We teach our children from their youngest years that true talk is a great value,” so I was just wondering if either of you or both of you were raised and brought up on the same value of truth? Also, do you know if there is a specific reason why the apache people called the soldiers White Eyes? One other thing I wanted to know was if either of you were told the wagon train story from chapter five when you were younger? Thanks again Joe and Gloria for taking your time to spend with us and I look forward to reading more and finding out more about you guys.

Hello to Gloria & Joe! Thanks so much for participating in this blog. I'm sure I'm going to learn a great deal with your help. It's taking me quite a while to get into this book. But many more questions will come soon as I get deeper into the text. Looking forward to blogging with you both!

I was not sure what I was about to get myself into when I opened this book. I will have to admit that I had no clue who Geronimo was. I still and trying to tie some loose ends together but I think i understand the basics of him. Anyways about the novel. At first i was not very thrilled with reading the book because it was just different from what i am use to. Now that i am further along i really enjoy it. I think that is because the set up of the novel. The way the story is being told. The boy is very proud of his heritage and seems to want to tell everyone about his life but in a fun way. Now do not get me wrong this book is not on a fun subject but the form of writing makes the story more interesting then just a factual book. When reading i related this event to the holocaust in someways. Ways like the train ride, not being feed appropriately, knowing that they cannot be heading to a safe place but to a place of death, and the fact that the Apache tribe was the victim of the "White Eyes". Also the way the apaches love to share stories of their family, friends, and ancestors is always heart warming because i love to here other stories and see just how different people are but in reality not one way is right. Also it seems that the Apache Indians have judged the "White Eyes" seemed to be true and correct. As in they said that "White Eyes" seem to fear death and that is because some do not truly believe in a higher place. When the Apache Indians do not want to die but they are not afraid to die because they believe in a higher place. I mean i personally agree with that statement but that is my personal opinion. I have just found this novel interesting and I do not have to force myself to read it. I do however must find a quite place so i can completely concentrate so i do not get confused with all the characters.

Hi Joe and Gloria!

I've really enjoyed this book so far. Before reading this, I had never heard of Geronimo. I'm very excited to get further in the book and find out more about him. I like the point-of-view the story is written in. I think it gives the reader a closer look at Apache culture coming from Geronimo's "grandson". The author uses so much imagery and descriptive words when describing the horrible train ride. I could really picture what it was like. I have enjoyed the short stories the narrarator has shared. I find it to be really sad what all of the Apaches had to go through. They seemed like such honest, caring people. I can't wait to read more!

I am so excited that you both will be taking part in our discussions about this book. When I first began to read the book I will admit I was not happy. I couldnt seem to get motivated in the book mainly because I had no history about Geronimo. Thats when I put the book down and did a little research on my own. As a future teacher I would assume students would have to do the same in some way shape or form. I kept getting confused as to how the story was being told. It seemed as if he would jump from story to story so the idea of writing down the characters as they came across in the book was helpful. Out of curiosity have you Joe and Gloria been able to read this book? And if so or if not I am just interested in hearing your experiences or stories that have been told to you.

I want to welcome Joe and Gloria to our discussion. I am looking forward to hearing what you have to say. I have to say that I have never heard of Geronimo before or his accomplishments. I have had a hard time getting into this story because it isn't a type of book I generally like to read. I am hoping that I will become more interested in this book the more I read. I also hope to learn a lot more about Geronimo and Apache people. I found it very interesting that this story is told by Geronimo's "grandson". We get to have a more personal account of Geronimo since it comes from his "grandson". While reading this story I have gotten confused because it seems like a bunch of different stories. I am hoping that we can hear some stories from Joe and Gloria that relate to what we are reading.

Hi Joe and Gloria! Thank you so much for taking part in our discussions! I never really knew much about Geronimo before this reading, and I am glad to be learning about all he contributed to our history. What I have read so far has already changed the way I look at the history of Native Americans. The only thing I know about Geronimo is the shout when people jump off of things and yell: "Geronimoooooo!!!!!!". I am curious to see if this comes from this Geronimo. One thing that stuck out in my mind was that they called black soldiers "black white men". This is making the black people just like white people, which I am sure they did not think of themselves as at this time. I am looking forward to discussing this book with everyone!

To Joe and Gloria: How has, if in any way, your heritage affected your daily lives in any way or in society?

Hi Gloria and Joe!!! I am so excited that you are going to be blogging with our class during Geronimo. I have finished the first part of the book, and I absolutely love it! I love the focus that is put on family in the book. The ties between Geronimo and the other tribe members are so close and important. I admire the respect that is common among the Native American culture. I feel that everyone respects the elders within the tribes, they respect each other, and they respect themselves. I feel that Americans as a whole are very disrespectful. The majority of the youth of today have no respect for their parents, let alone themselves. Parents are not viewed as people with knowledge and life experience, but they are viewed as blockades for children just "trying to have fun" and live their lives. I feel that an importance on family should be instilled back into the lives and habits of Americans. I feel that if we cared more about the whole community of people instead of ourselves, we as a nation would be in a better state today. Family is family, something that should be cherished; not degraded and destroyed as it is being today.

Hello to Joe and Gloria! I am so glad that you could join us this week while we blog and am looking forward to your insights on Geronimo. So far I am halfway through the story and I love it. The reading goes by pretty fast and the story is interesting. It is nice to read a book about a culture as rich as the Native Americans. There could not have been a greater narrartor picked for this book. Having Gerinimo's grandson was interesting to have telling this story. He was very insightful to everything that was going on. Once again, I look forward to talking with you throughout the week.

First I would just like to say "Welcome" to our forum and thank you so much for taking the time to blog with us. It will be a very enlightening experience to learn from you both as you answer our questions while we read "Geronimo". I actually have a question that you may or may not be able to answer. There is a reference made about Ussen, the Life Giver. I was wondering if you knew anything about Ussen and could share with us? I am assuming, by his name, that he is a god or the God of the Apache tribe. Please tell us what you know of their religion and also about your own.

Welcome to our blog Joe and Gloria, we are excited about speaking to you both! Now that I am done with the first half of the book, I became very interested in cultural differences that exists between different Apache bands. Throughout the book, I really liked Mr. Wratten's character. The bond that he formed between the Apaches and himself was truly incredible. I believe he felt as if he were a part of their band and that Geronimo was able to sense this and therefore trusted him as their translator. I knew absolutely nothing about Geronimo before I read this book. So far I have found out that he had a lot of resentment for Mexicans due to them killing his first wife, kids and mother. I find this odd because the book mentioned how Geronimo came from a peaceful tribe and at one time wanted peace with the Mexicans. If you have any thoughts on this please let me know and thank you again for blogging with us!

Hey there! I just wanted to welcome you to the blog. I'm so excited that you will be helping us gain some insight into the Apache culture as we read Geronimo. As I've been reading through the book I have personally enjoyed the short stories and the nature of the narrator's perspective into his grandfather's life and journey. In all honesty, I do not know much about Geronimo and his life, but the perspective shown through his grandson has proven how much of a hero figure he is. His character is larger than life. I was wondering if this sentiment is still true among the Apache culture today? Is Geronimo still represented as a "godlike", invinvible figure, or is your perception of him completely different being a part of the actual culture? Thanks again for taking the time to blog with us! I am really looking forward to your responses.

Thanks for all the great comments and questions. Joe and I are thrilled to be part of your learning experience about Geronimo. We hope we have answered your questions satisfactorily and we look forward to more questions and comments from you.

KRYSTAL STEWART
Joe and I are happy to see that you are part of this class and that you are Native American. We know that there are many similarities among the native peoples. We have found this to be true in meeting many people from various tribes at powwows and other Native American events.

One of the advantages of this class and its blog is to inform others of the culture of the Native Americans. This is one good way to dispel misconceptions and stereotypes. In addition, you are a great example of what a true Native American is. Keep up the good work.

We will certainly go into the website of your tribe. We love reading about other Native American cultures and traditions. It confirms as to how much alike our customs and ways are.

MEGAN SNYDER
It was the custom for stories to be told at night around a campfire throughout the year. The winter season just brought added closeness to the families since it was an excellent time for discussion and stories. Storytelling continues to this day.

Back in the days of the “Ancient Ones” and Geronimo, there was no written way to preserve the history and the ways of “Inde” (the People). The only means of preserving the richness of this history was by storytelling. These stories were repeated nightly, especially to the children in order for them to memorize the history and hand it down to the next generation. Because of this, our culture and history has not been lost.

Honesty was and is a common trait among the Apache people. We were also taught to put others needs before ours. To be generous with what we have. It’s common for an Apache to give away a personal belonging to someone that has admired that item. We have seen Apache’s give away jewelry, items of clothing, blankets and many other things only because someone admired that belonging.

CANDACE CARPENTER
Joe and I are glad to see that you are enjoying reading Geronimo. The Apache are very closely connected to the Earth, the Four Directions and Nature. We are all part of the “circle of life”.

The section about “Skinny Yellow Hair” and his gesture of the finger across the neck had a very personal and emotional meaning to me (Gloria). My grandfather always told us that we were related to Mangas Coloradas. Mangas had a brother named “Torres”. My grandfather and his father were from that Torres line.

I also want to set the book straight. Mangas Coloradas was not killed in Pinos Altos. He met with the soldiers at Fort McLane and was killed there. Fort McLane is about 20 miles southeast of Pinos Altos.

ASHLEY GARBRICK
Joe and I have found the book to be very interesting even though it is a novel based on fact and fiction. The Apache believed that gold, silver, turquoise and other valuable stones were very sacred. That they helped in spiritual healings and protection. The Apache did not put a monetary value to these stones.

ELIZABETH KIRK
We look forward to your comments and questions.

HEATHER GLOVER
We are glad that you are enjoying reading Geronimo. To answer your question about us being taught the “value of truth”, the answer is, “Yes”. We have also instilled the value of truth to our children.

To answer your question as to why the Apache called the soldiers “White Eyes, it is because the Apache had never seen people with blue eyes before. From a certain distance, the soldiers’ eyes appeared to be all white and that is how they got the name “White Eyes”.

TAYLOR CAIRNS
Do not be ashamed. Joe and I are happy that you are now interested in Geronimo and the Apache people. We have a beautiful history. Continue to read about us.

Yes, the Apache have always had a great respect for Apache women. Women played a very big role in decision making in the days of Geronimo. We are a matriarchal society. The women in Joe’s family and mine played a big role in shaping us into who we are today. That was very obvious when my Grandmother and Joe’s mother were alive. They were truly respected women and they deserved our respect.

Hello All,
Thank you for your thoughtful comments and questions. I am learning a great deal, and I must say, with much enthusiasm, thanks to all of you! Wow, where do I begin? Just a few comments and reasons to pause…
Reread the telegram from former President Grover Cleveland. Have you ever thought about the many Native Americans that were actually prisoners-of-war, and how/why they came to be prisoners? The senseless killings and the hostility toward the native peoples puzzle me to this day. I think about the deliberate murder of the medicine man, Noche-del-Klinne (pp. 104-111) and of course the gruesome execution of Mangas Coloradas (pp. 65-73), and I just cannot help but wonder why??? More disturbing is how our own government issued these commands. Why do we fear those different from us? Can’t we be curious and sensitive without always being afraid? How does this connect with the world in which we live today?

Another observation…let me know what you think.
I love Bruchac’s creativity in shaping the character of Willie, Geronimo’s “grandson.” Regarding Willie, one of my favorite parts thus far was reading the gifts Ussen bestowed upon Willie-“that of a strong memory… and the power to be unnoticed, especially by white men.” This cleverly explains why Willie isn’t mentioned in historical references; we know that even though Willie is based on real Chiricahua boys who survived the Apache prisoner-of-war camps, as the author shared with us, Willie is fictional. But oh, what a carefully crafted character! To me, Willie helps in bringing the story to life. How do you think children will relate to Willie? I look forward to reading your thoughts.

It did bother me to find out that our government wanted to get rid of the Native Americans because they were different. I have noticed that fear is an important part of the book and one of the major differences between the cultures of the whites and Apaches. I think that as Americans we fear things that are different because of our status as a world power and the threat that our status could be altered due to a group of people different from us. In other words we have a chip on our shoulder (as a nation) and fear that our way of life might have to change. But I feel that change is part of the normal cycle of things and is required for a government and its people to remain within the current times. I know that today the people who are being feared are immigrants, especially those of Hispanic origins. I think our nation fears them because of their numbers and the fact that they are willing to work so hard for meager wages while many Americans have begun to lose their jobs to these immigrants. This trend has led to the current talks about what to do about illegal immigrants. Who knows what decision will be made but it does look like Hispanic immigrants especially those of Mexican heritage could be sent back as “prisoners” or illegals much like was done to the Apaches and many other groups of Native Americans.
I hadn’t really thought that much about the development of Willie’s character but that was a great way to incorporate him in the story without tampering with the historical references in the book. But I think that Willie is a great character who children will relate to well. He is so curious about what is going on around him and he explains what is going on so a younger reader will be able to understand. I also think that children will admire Willie for being so brave in spite of the scary circumstances surrounding him. I also thought something neat about Willie’s character is how little he judges the “White eyes” that are holding him as a prisoner. He does not fear them in the same way that the whites fear the Apaches.

Sorry for the late posting...I just wanted to thank you, Joe and Gloria, for taking time to join our blog. I loved reading about your family’s history and I think that it is fascinating that, Gloria, your great grandmother was part of Geronimo's band. One question that I do have for the two of you is, I am still trying to understand the meaning of bands and tribes. Dr. Frye explained it briefly in class, but is there any way that the two of you could explain it to me a little more in depth. Thank you again for joining our blog and look forward to your responses.

I just wanted to say hey to Joe and Gloria and thank you for taking your time to join us. I'm sorry for posting so late i had to do some catching up on my reading! So far I absolutely love this book! I find it so interesting to learn about the Apaches and the life of Geronimo. It's so hard to believe how badly the Native Americans were treated. Before reading I didn't really know much about bands and tribes of Native Americans and how they were treated by the white soldiers. I just don't understand why the "white eyes" were so cruel. I can't imagine going through something so awful. They were treated so badly. I can't believe the white men in charge killed so many people for no reason at all.

Greetings from Joe and Gloria. Thank you for the nice comments that you have sent us. Being part of this “blog” is a great experience for us.

We are glad to see that all of you are enjoying reading “Geronimo.” Joe and I are also enjoying reading the book.

We love the way that the author made the fictional character of Geronimo’s grandson so real. In reading Mr. Bruchac’s acknowledgements, the character of the grandson is based on several real Chiricahua boys who survived the Apache prisoner-of-war camps. Therefore, in a sense, the grandson in the book is a true character.

There were several comments made about the bad treatment of the Apaches by the “White Eyes.” The “big” picture is that the American government wanted the land that the Apache lived on because it was rich, prime land and the government wanted to expand its territory throughout North America according to its belief in manifest destiny.

The Apache were against having their land taken away from them because they had always lived on this land. The only way for the American Government to take the land, was to move the Apache into reservations. Many Apache bolted from the reservations, including Geronimo, because of disagreements and broken promises by the American Government.

RACHEL WARRINER

Geronimo was said to have had magical powers. That he could see into the future, walk without creating footprints, and even hold off the dawn to protect his people. Some even said that his raiding successes were due to powers given him by supernatural beings that included invulnerability to bullets.

We see him as a man that had a spiritual drive, with a deep belief that he was invincible because of a great purpose that he had. That purpose was to be free.

SARAH ROBINSON

Geronimo believed in living peacefully with the Mexicans until his wife, children, and mother were killed by the Mexican army. From that point on, he hated the Mexicans and wanted revenge for the killing of his family.

TIFFANY MEASE

Ussen is the Life Giver, Supreme Being, Creator, and Ruler of the Apache People. The Apache believe that when Ussen created them, he also created game, fruits, and grain for them to eat. That he created many different herbs to grow to restore the people’s health. That he taught where to find these herbs, and how to prepare them for medicine. That he gave them a pleasant climate and all they needed for clothing and shelter was at hand. The Apache pray to Ussen as we Christian’s pray to our Creator. To Joe and me, they are one and the same Creator.

ALEX NEOFOTIS

Glad you’re enjoying the book. We hope that you will read other books about Native Americans. It is a beautiful culture!

MANDY CECILE

Apaches, in general, are raised to respect their elders, nature, and each other. Joe and I were raised to respect our elders and those in leadership. This is something that we have passed on to our children. Our children have passed this on to their children.

EMILY JOHNSON

The way Geronimo's got his name came because of his fearless fighting in battle. During one of these fearless battles against Mexican troops, the troops began to cry out "Geronimo” because they were seeking help from their patron saint, Jerome, or “Geronimo” in Spanish. After this battle, the warriors bestowed the name of Geronimo on their fearless leader. Today, to some, this is still a battle cry.

Your question about how our heritage has affected our daily lives in any way or in society is a very good question. Joe and I were born and raised in Los Angeles, California far away from any reservation. Living in Los Angeles, our families assimilated with the White American culture. We had no problem practicing both cultures.

In my case, my grandparents moved to California in 1923. I was born in 1938 and the first of my family to be born in California. My grandfather, my mother’s father, still held on to many Apache traditional ways. He performed certain ceremonies when I was born, when my umbilical cord fell off, when I started teething, when I was ill, etc. My grandparents instilled respect, respect, respect. I still live my life by the standards they instilled in me. These teachings of my grandparents followed me in all aspects of my life.

My grandfather was a medicine man (a curandero) and many people in our neighborhood came to him when they were ill or injured. I remember many of those people that came to him and seeing him work on them in our living room. That was quite an experience.

Joe’s ancestors were from the San Carlos reservation. His mother was born in Clifton, Arizona and later she lived in Globe, Arizona. Most of the men in the family were miners. When the miles failed, the family moved to Los Angeles where Joe was born.

His family also assimilated into the population in Los Angeles. His family practiced and never forgot their Apache culture. One of Joe’s uncles was a “Gan” (Mountain Spirit) dancer in his youth.

MEAGAN CRAWFORD

We are sure that you will get into the book and learn to appreciate Geronimo’s contribution to American History.

SARA CAULDER

Yes. Joe and I are reading the “Geronimo” book. One story that stands out in my head that my grandfather told us was when he was around 5-6 years old; he was out in a field with his mother (she was from Geronimo’s band). That Geronimo and two or three of his men rode up on horseback; that one of Geronimo’s men leaned over, put one of his arms under my grandfather’s arms and picked my grandfather up to take him. My great-grandmother screamed, ran over to where my grandfather was and grabbed him by the legs. She and this man had a tug of war with my grandfather. Because this man didn’t have a good hold on my grandfather, my great-grandmother was able to pull my grandfather away from him. She ran away and Geronimo and his men rode off.

My grandfather didn’t know why Geronimo wanted him. We have always wondered why Geronimo wanted my grandfather. We’ll never know.

My grandmother told us about some of the Apache raids in Pinos Altos when she was a young girl. She was born in 1878.
Her household was never attacked. I guess because the Apache raiding knew that her mother was Apache.

MELANIE WRIGHT

The author has described the story in a very clear, beautiful way. You almost see yourself riding in the train next to Geronimo. You really feel the injustices that were committed against the Apache by the “White Eyes.” I think that when one doesn’t understand another person’s culture, it is very easy to be cruel to that person.

DANA PACKARD/STEPHANIE FISHER

The Apache are divided into many band divisions and clans within those bands. Apache clans usually take their names from the natural features of localities, never from animals. The main Apache divisions are the Chiricahua Apache, San Carlos Apache, White Mountain Apache, Jicarillas Apache, and the Kiowa Apache. There are many sub-divisions and clans.

I am from the Chiricahua Apache Tribe, Chihene, or Red Paint Band, and from the Chokonni (Juniper) clan. Joe is from the San Carlos Tribe, but he doesn’t know what band or clan.

We thought you would be interested in reading this Code of Ethics. Let us know what you think.

(Gloria) Many of these ethics were taught to me by my grandmother. She was a wonderful person and greatly loved by our family, friends and neighbors. She still guides me in many of the decisions I make. I say, "Grandma, how would you handle this situation?" And the answer always comes to me.

Native American
Code of Ethics

1.Each morning upon rising and each evening before sleeping, give thanks for the life within you and for all life, for the good things the Creator has given you and for the opportunity to grow a little more each day. Consider your thoughts and actions of the past day and seek for the courage and strength to be a better person. Seek for the things that will benefit others (everyone).
2.Respect: Respect means "To feel or show honor or esteem for someone or something; to consider the wellbeing of, or to treat someone or something with high esteem or courtesy.” Showing respect is a basic law of life.
oTreat every person from the tiniest child to the oldest elder with respect at all times.
oSpecial respect should be given to Elders, Parents, Teachers, and Community Leaders.
oNo person should be made to feel "put down" by you; avoid hurting other hearts, as you would avoid a deadly poison.
oTouch nothing that belongs to someone else (especially Sacred Objects) without permission, or an understanding between you.
oRespect the privacy of every person; never intrude on a person's quiet moment or personal space.
oNever walk between people who are conversing.
oNever interrupt people who are conversing.
oSpeak in a soft voice, especially when you are in the presence of Elders, strangers, or others to whom special respect is due.
oDo not speak unless invited to do so at gatherings where Elders are present (except to ask what is expected of you, should you be in doubt).
oNever speak about others in a negative way, whether they are present or not.
oTreat the earth and all of her aspects as your mother. Show deep respect for the mineral world, the plant world, and the animal world. Do nothing to pollute our Mother; rise up with wisdom to defend her.
oShow deep respect for the beliefs and religion of others.
oListen with courtesy to what others say, even if you feel that what they are saying is worthless. Listen with your heart.
oRespect the wisdom of the people in council. Once you give an idea to a council meeting it no longer belongs to you - it belongs to the people. Respect demands that you listen intently to the ideas of others in council and that you do not insist that your idea prevail. Indeed, you should freely support the ideas of others if they are true and good, even if those ideas are quite different from the ones you have contributed. The clash of ideas brings forth the Spark of Truth.
3.Once a council has decided something in unity, respect demands that no one speak secretly against what has been decided. If the council has made an error, that error will become apparent to everyone in its own time.
4.Be truthful at all times, and under all conditions.
5.Always treat your guests with honor and consideration. Give of your best food, your best blankets, the best part of your house, and your best service to your guests.
6.The hurt of one is the hurt of all; the honor of one is the honor of all.
7.Receive strangers and outsiders with a loving heart and as members of the human family.
8.All the races and tribes in the world are like the different colored flowers of one meadow. All are beautiful. As children of the Creator, they must all be respected.
9.To serve others, to be of some use to family, community, nation and the world is one of the main purposes for which human beings have been created. Do not fill yourself with your own affairs and forget your most important talks. True happiness comes only to those who dedicate their lives to the service of others.
10.Observe moderation and balance in all things.
11.Know those things that lead to your wellbeing, and those things that lead to your destruction.
12.Listen to and follow the guidance given to your heart. Expect guidance to come in many forms: in prayer, in dreams, in times of quiet solitude and in the words and deeds of wise Elders and friends.

I love those Code of Ethics, those are really motivating. Not to mention anybody could learn something from at least one of them. I like how so many of the codes revolve around respect. A teacher told me once that when developing their classroom rules, they came up with only two. Respect others, and respect yourself. They said everything in the classroom could be brought back to those two rules, and it’s true. For example if Billie hits John then Billie is in trouble because he broke the first rule of respecting others. My favorite two rules from the Code of Ethics were: “All the races and tribes in the world are like the different colored flowers of one meadow. All are beautiful. As children of the Creator, they must all be respected.” Not only does this have a good lesson but it has great imagery and a beautiful nature reference. The second one was, “Listen to and follow the guidance given to your heart. Expect guidance to come in many forms: in prayer, in dreams, in times of quiet solitude and in the words and deeds of wise Elders and friends.” I like this one because it talks about how you can obtain guidance from many different things.

I really like the code of ethics because if we all went by them we would live in such a better world. Not only a better world but everyone would seem to have a better outlook on life. I see that respect plays a huge role in your life. I absolutely love that! Respect is one of the key things for people. I do have a question and it might be to personal. But you comment about a Creator... do yall have a certain religion or do you each have your own belief? and if it is different than Christian, Jewish, Islam... what is it like if you do not mind me asking. Sorry if this in anyway offends you.

The Native Americans code of ethics really touched me. They make me realize how sad the world is today and how much better the world would be if everyone would follow these ethics or at least create some of their own. The Native Americans lived by these ethics and were good people. The respect each other and truly care for each other. When I was reading these ethics, it made me think about the trip my dad just took to Honduras. He said that the people there were the kindest, nicest people he has ever met. They were thankful for everything when they have nothing. A smile could make their day. My dad said they lived by their own set of rules and really respect their people and the others they meet. The rules they live by are probably like the Native Americans code of ethics. Both groups understand the importance of life and how to treat people. If Americans could appreciate what we have, respect each other, and follow these ethics, this place we live in would be such a better place. My favorite of the code of ethics that everyone should strive to live by is number one, “Each morning upon rising and each evening before sleeping, give thanks for the life within you and for all life, for the good things the Creator has given you and for the opportunity to grow a little more each day. Consider your thoughts and actions of the past day and seek for the courage and strength to be a better person. Seek for the things that will benefit others (everyone)”. Americans need to be thankful for just being here and for everything we have. We need to always consider what it takes to be a better person and how important it is to put others before ourselves.

I really like the code of ethics followed by the Native Americans. They're very ideal. As I read them, I gained a sense of peace and balance. If I followed by those guidelines, I would be so much more organized and at peace with myself and others. Not to be prejudice or stereotypical, anytime I've ever seen a Native American on movies or shows, (I know movies and tv shows in no way depict how people REALLY are) they always seem so calm and in touch with themselves. Maybe these codes of ethics help them maintain such a serene way of handling things. I know in our society today, people just fly off at the mouth with no respect, and they think they're "group" is better than the others. I love these codes and wish everyone would follow them. The world would be a much better place.

As I finished reading Geronimo and read the Code of Ethics that Joe and Gloria posted, I realized that throughout the novel all the Apache people wanted was to live in peace. I just don't understand why we could not just let the Apaches be. It frustrates me that the "White Eyes" did not fully understand the culture of the Apaches and many people died because of this ignorance. For example, the author speaks of rumors that were told to the Americans about Geronimo. The rumors stated that Geronimo wanted to attack the Americans. Also, Geronimo heard many rumors about the "White Eyes" as well. These rumors created a sense of mistrust between the Americans and the Apaches. I think that each group must have felt unsafe and unsure about what would happen. These two groups could have lived in peace if they would have just known a little more about each other's cultures. It breaks my heart to think that Geronimo and many others wanted to live in peace so badly that they were willing to give up their culture in favor of a strange one that had no relevance to their past lives. It was the only way out that they could see, and I hate that they had to give up so much to live in peace.

Just to comment on the code of ethics Joe and Gloria posted for us, I would just like to say how wonderful that code truly is. I am a firm believer of respect to all people, not necessarily any one type of person. I think society today has become so self-centered to the point that everything must be beneficial to yourself before it is beneficial to anyone else. I love how your code of ethics insists upon showing respect and that it is a "basic law of life". I also love how it says to "avoid hurting other hearts, as you would avoid a deadly poison". I think that if everyone could live just the tiniest bit by this code of ethics the world would be so much better. Thank you for sharing that with us!

Thanks for posting the code of ethics. I can't get over how they are basically the same things that were taught and enstilled in me by the elders of my tribe. I respect and try and live by those just as my elders did and the people pf my tribe today. I can hear my grandmother telling me to"Each morning upon rising and each evening before sleeping, give thanks for the life within you and for all life, for the good things the Creator has given you and for the opportunity to grow a little more each day. Consider your thoughts and actions of the past day and seek for the courage and strength to be a better person. Seek for the things that will benefit others (everyone). " It almost makes me speechless because it's nice to know that other tribes share and respect common ethics. Many people who aren't Native really can't grasps just how important those ethics are to us. I have the upmost respect for my elders and my gaga(grandmother) who just recently passed away lived and breathed to do for others."To serve others, to be of some use to family, community, nation and the world is one of the main purposes for which human beings have been created. Do not fill yourself with your own affairs and forget your most important talks. True happiness comes only to those who dedicate their lives to the service of others." I just can't express the excitment I have for my fellow classmates to get an idea what its truly to be Native and raised with traditions. THANKS!!!!!
Krystal Stewart

I believe that Willie is such a smart child. He definitely brings life to this book by having the ideas and understandings if a child, but he still has so much wisdom that has been passed on to him from his culture. I really enjoy reading this book and how each story connects to the next. Children can relate to Willie by the way he seems to be aware of his surrounding situation, but question why the situations are happening. Children constantly question life and why things have to happen when they do. It helps children grow and learn how to deal with similar situations that may occur as they grow and develop into adults. Each experience in life can lead to a life long lesson to remember. I believe that Willie is able to take these experiences and look at the “big picture.” This can help children relate situations in their lives and think about what they have learned from personal experiences that may have been good or bad.

Reading the Code of Ethics that Joe and Gloria posted made me think about how impatient our society is. The ideas of respect go hand in hand with patience. By respecting other people’s ideas (whether they are right or wrong) is hard to do without expressing what you may think to be right or wrong. I will have to say, from reading the Code of Ethics it has made me more aware of respecting others and having the patience to take each day a little slower. It is hard to take time to respect and admire the things that we have. Having these two qualities can really make life much more enjoyable due to the simplest things life has to offer.

While reading the Code of Ethics I also thought of how the white people portrayed such disrespect to the Native Americans and how impatient the white people are in the book “Geronimo.” It is so sad to think of how the Apaches were so willing to be helpful, yet the white people were so dishonest. By reading this book it makes you really question the type of person you are and how others perceive you. I really enjoyed reading about the Code of Ethics for the Native Americans and it really helped me analyze some of my own actions and thoughts. So thank you Joe and Gloria…

I realized today as I was reading this book that there is a distinct difference in our culture as to the Native American culture... Patience! I want to be able to sit and read this quickly, but there are so many different names and meanings that it is really hard to skim over the term and still learn the significance of it. You really lose meaning and significance of people and events that mean so much to their story when you skim or do not take the time to digest every single word. What really made me laugh is that just as I was thinking this to myself, I came across the part where Willie said, "...but I will be brief. I know most White Eyes readers are less patient than Indians and prefer short stories that are easy to understand." Ha! It is the honest truth! I am now challenging myself to really take the time with this story to digest this information as the Indians did to make sure I see the importance of every piece and story within this novel.

"Lies from the mouths of the White Eyes seemed as certain as the sunrise each morning in the east. Even when they wrote their promises down on paper, they still did not keep them. Paper lies are even easier to burn." I think that is such a powerful statement. It is not easy to understand to some people the fight Geronimo and other American Indian Tribes put up against the settlers coming into the US. People today would do almost anything to keep their house, land, and family from being stolen and broken up. That is exactly what Geronimo was doing. It's shocking to think how they mistreated the Apache's. Some members of the Indian Tribe abandon their brothers just to still be thrown in prison. What the "White Eyes" said meant nothing because they didn't keep their promises. How hard it must have been for one not to be able to trust anyone or anything that they said. In my opinion, the "White Eyes" took Natives as fools. They knew we were people of our word and when someone made a treaty or promise they took it to be real and reliable. My ancestors soon found that be all wrong.
Krystal

The entire code of ethics is so clearly well said and laid out. Each one seemed to build upon one another and as I was reading I too was inspired. If everyone in this world could truly live by these then it would be a more peaceful place. So often everyone is looking after their owvnselves that we forget about others and the world we live in. I do see a similiarity though within the Native American code of ethics and that of our own views. But so often we dont tend to abide by respecting others. As I was reading this alot of it reminded me Christianity especially about serving others and knowing what leads to good well being and destruction. Gloria, you mention Creator and praying. Do you refer to a religion or just spirituality? I really enjoyed reading these ethics because it reminded me of all the things we too are taught growing up.

As I continued to read through Geronimo I realized how many times the Codes of Ethics that Joe and Gloria shared were mentioned. They might have not been directly referenced but they were explained by the way Willie did something or how he behaved. Such as the way that Willie explained how he prayed every morning and gave thanks for the day. The theme of respect was mentioned many times throughout the book. One of the times I thought it was most interesting was when Willie explained why many Apache men had more than one wife and how not marrying them and providing for those with no mate would have wrong. (p. 211-215) It portrayed how their different way of life and need for survival led to them marrying more than one wife. I also found it really sad when reading numbers 7 and 9 from the Code of Ethics. Both of these were observed by the Apaches and given to the “White Eyes” but they did not have it returned to them. It was such a shame that many “White Eyes” were unwilling to acknowledge a different way of life as acceptable and show them the respect they deserved. I was so happy to see that some “White Eyes” had been kind and accepting of the Apaches such as Nantan Wotherspoon and Lieutenant Capron who tried to do what they could to get better treatment of the captured Chiricahuas.

After Joe and Gloria introduced the Code of Ethics, I saw evidence of the code while completing Geronimo. I remember the narrator "Willie" waking and praising that it was a new day, and that he and the majority of his Indian family had survived. When the Apache Indians were cramped together in the camps "Willie" talked of how it was uncomfortable to be that close to another person's property, and how they did not have any privacy. He also talked of how uncomfortable it was to use the bathroom while making their journey to Florida. I loved the fact that all of the Apache Indians were respectful. They respected everything from their elders, families, women, and the earth. When the Apache Indians became part of the US Army they were delighted at the fact that the US soldiers respected them, and that the US soldiers acknowledged that they were human beings. Even though the Apache Indians were greatly demeaned and to an extent dehumanized, they were willing to look past the unjust because of the respect the White Eyes were showing the Apaches serving the US.

The Apache seemed to be such humble beings. They did not ask for much in live, just respect, their homeland, and their families to stay together. Even though traditional stereotypes categorize Indians as being "blood thirsty savages," this stereotype bests fits the Americans. They were the ones uprooting the Apache Indians and tearing their families to shreds. Geronimo has opened my eyes to a whole new perspective of Native Americans as a whole, and I am thankful for the experience and the information I gained from reading the book.

I wish that we as Americans could develop a code of ethics. Joe and Gloria mentioned that respect was a key factor to life, and I agree. I feel that if Americans could realize this truth, and adopt a code to live by, individuals could live their lives richly.

I really enjoyed reading the Code of Ethics. It seems to really inforce respect and being more concerned with others. It made me realize how bad things have gotten in the world today. Today most people are only concerned about themselves and don't respect others. If everyone went by these Codes the world would be a much friendlier and better place. This Code also contains many of the things we were taught growing up. It was nice to see these things again. While reading Geronimo it made me really sad to see how the "White Eyes" did the opposite of the Code of Ethics. Things would have been so much better if the White Eyes would have gone by the Code.

I was really interested in the code of ethics that refers to respect. I noticed all throughout Geronimo how well women were treated. Even now in our society I sometimes think that the role of women is considered less important than the role of a man. It was interesting to hear how much Apaches respected women for being life-givers. Apaches also seem to respect children as much as they would adults. Geronimo never seemed burdened by children. He welcomed them at every opportunity such as helping them grow stronger by bathing in the cold water and also he was their school disciplinarian. I know from a historic perspective that children were expected to approach growing up more as an adult than a child. It seems as if Apaches valued the role of children by letting them play.

One of the themes I picked up on throughout the novel was that mostly every "white-eye" that got to know and absorb the culture the Apaches, came to fondly respect them and have empathy for their situation. An example that truly touched me was when Lieutenant Capron was able to sympathize with the Apaches. He showed compassion by crying and admitting his respect for the Apache people. I found it so touching the extent to which the Lieutenant was able to sympathize. Even Wratten throughout the novel became absorbed with the Apache culture and was so dedicated to their cause that he abandoned his own family. I think children can learn that something that may seem scary and different at first may actually be a really positive thing or experience. Children need to learn that they must truly get to know something or someone before they judge it and put a label on it. Sometimes it is easy to accept the views of others that we respect but we must form our own opinions and realize that just because someone may be culturally or physically different they still have the same emotions. This is the lesson that was the most valuable to me from the book.

The injustice throughout this story just really gets to me! The White Eyes all think that the Indians are dumb, do not know what is best for them, and think that they know what is right and best for all of their kind. This is the argument of a lot of people, I know, but the irony is that the Native Americans were the healthiest and wisest of all people! Willie talks about how he could tell the difference in the air when traveling through the United States on the train, and it shows how dirty all of our people were to give them all of the diseases that killed them when they were assimilated into the White Eyes culture. What white person would dunk themselves multiple times into a freezing body of water every day of the winter to make sure they were clean? Our culture sure wouldn't have! The injustice their culture experienced was unfortunate to the extreme, and I feel ashamed to be associated with a culture that would treat other human beings this way. I recognize that this is the common argument made by people who experience this through readings, and I hope I can say that I would have acted with empathy for the Native Americans if I would have lived through this time in history.

This is an amazing experience for our class at least, so I can only imagine what kind of impact this novel would have on a 5th grader!

I must say i do enjoy the quotes at the beginning of every chapter because they are from all the different point of views in this book. It allows me to see other insights of what is going on. I am confused in the sense that I thought this was a novel but it seems that its not fiction. In one chapter Little Foot shares his powers and one of them is that he can be unnoticed. And because of this power he was not mentioned in factual books about his presences at these important talks with the "White Eyes". I guess what I am trying to ask is this where the fiction comes into play. As in he really was not there but these are the stories of other Apache Indians that were at those meetings?

I finished Geronimo last night and I have to say I really did like this book. I’m glad we had longer to read this book because there were so many informational little stories during each chapter. I like the way the book has an overall story but still each chapter has a different theme. The funniest part of the book is how Geronimo sells so many things to the “White Eyes” that he acts are so important. When in reality there were just cheap rings or things his wives made. I can just picture a huge greedy crowd trying to buy things from Geronimo and inside he was probably laughing. The saddest part of the book I think was the Carlisle school the children were sent to. I hate that so many young kids died while attempting to get an education. Almost all of the children that were sent there ended up passing away because of the “couching sickness,” including Willie’s first love, Katie, and Geronimo’s son. Another thing I found surprising in the book was how eager Geronimo and the others were to become “white.” I thought that they would want the exact opposite. By the end of the book I finally realized though that they were only trying to fit in with the whites because they wanted to show that they were peaceful towards them. The Apaches wanted to go back home and the only way that would be possible is if they became “white-ized” and the least amount of threat as possible. Thanks for adding to our blog Joe and Gloria! I’ve enjoyed reading your responses and posts.

After reading the code of ethics provided by Joe and Gloria, the character development of Geronimo and his fellow Native Americans was more complete for me. Especially under the code of respect. Throughout the book I wanted Geronimo or his grandson or somebody to rebel against the "White Eyes" so badly because of how they had been treating the tribesmen. I was frustrated that the Native Americans could be so forgiving and trusting of the "White Eyes" even after they had betrayed them multiple times and lied to their faces consistently. However, it is under the Apache Code of Ethics to respect and welcome all into the tribe. What I found interesting also is how the White Eyes codes of respect differ and conflict with those of the Native Americans. For example, it is a sign of respect to look at your elders or make eye contact when one is speaking to you in the White Eyes culture. However, it is a sign of great disrespect to look at one in the eyes according to the Apache codes. I think it's terrible that we tried to impose our culture through supremacy without observing their culture first. Unfortunately, white supremacy as been quite a legacy in America from it's beginnings. Similarly the African American culture has faced the same kind of prejudice and cultural shock as we thrust our superiority on them during the time of slavery. It also occurred during World War II when we relocated thousands and thousands of Japanese Americans after the bombing of Pearl Harbor. It is frustrating to read about these grave inequalities that even exist in our society today. The book opened my eyes to a piece of history that I had never really been exposed to and it provided some interesting insight into the culture of Native Americans.

It has been such a great and emotional experience blogging with all of you. Joe and I will long remember the positive impact that reading Geronimo had on all of you. Before reading this book, most of you had never heard of Geronimo or the Apache. What a blessing that now that you know of Geronimo and our culture that this gained knowledge will truly impact your lives forever. We hope that you will be encouraged to read books about other Native American tribes. It is a rich culture.

We were thrilled to read your comments on the “Code of Ethics”. These Codes are very powerful. How beautiful it would be if we could all live by these codes.

Many of you commented on what a better world this would be if we all respected each other’s beliefs, customs and ways. As you read Geronimo and the Code of Ethics, it is very clear that respect played an important role in the lives of the Apache in Geronimo’s day and still today. This is evident in all Native American cultures.

Joe and I hope that you will consider putting into practice this Code of Ethics into your own lives. This is a wonderful legacy to pass down to your descendents.

A wonderful Native American quote by a Shante Sioux goes like this, "We are truly unique things because we are the descendants of our ancestors and we are the ancestors of our descendents. You are future ancestors and as such, carry a powerful responsibility to your descendents.

Ashley and Sara both had questions regarding our beliefs. We are Christians; believe in one God, and the Holy Trinity. We offer our prayers to Father God/Jesus/Ussen. To us, they are one and the same.

We have a daily calendar that each day offers a different name for God. Some of these names are, God of Your Ancestors, Mighty Warrior, Creator, Spirit. Ussen translates to all of these names. Our God has many names.

Ussen bless you all. May he guide your paths in the direction you have chosen.

Carlisle Indian Industrial School
http://www.indians.org/welker/geronimo.htm

http://home.epix.net/~landis/histry.html

I am pretty emotional as I write this entry; I feel so indebted to Gloria and Joe for sharing so much of themselves with us. If you are reading this my friends, the Beltrans, please know how grateful and thankful I am. You have touched my life in ways you will never know. Also, you have encouraged me, as a human being and an educator, to become more aware and interested in Native Peoples; I thank you! I am posting a few of the photos from your trip to Cross Mountain in Pinos Altos (P.A.), New Mexico-your home!
I hope you all enjoy these!
Here is what Gloria writes:

For those of you that don't know, The cross at Cross Mountain was erected by the residents of P.A. and the Apache. It was a form of a "peace treaty". As long as the cross was up and visible, that meant that there was peace between the residents and the Apache. The original cross was made of wood. When the cross started to fall apart, people from P.A. replaced the wooden cross with one made of medal piping.
I've also attached a picture of a battle site between the Apache and Buffalo Soldiers. The battle site is on the way up to Cross Mountain. It was eerie standing right where you know many Apache fought and died.

http://www.sfmuseum.org/hist8/ppoint.html

http://teachers.henrico.k12.va.us/specialist/franceslively/lessons/grade6/bracelet6.htm

http://memory.loc.gov/learn/lessons/99/fear/intro.html

http://www.leeandlow.com/teachers/guide1.html

http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/amex/eyesontheprize/tguide/elem.html

http://www.kimskorner4teachertalk.com/readingliterature/genres/historical/baseball_saved_us.htm

One of the main comparisons I picked out between the novel "Geronimo" and the picture book "the bracelet" was the harshness of white people. In "Geronimo", their tribe was forced into exile by the "white eyes" simply because they were different. The White Eyes felt that the Native Americans were a threat to the United States and should be exiled to a place where they could keep a close watch on them. Reading this book really made me ashamed to be a descendant of those closed-minded people. In "the bracelet", the Japanese-Americans were forced into internment camps following the bombing at Pearl Harbor. Sure, the United States at that time was fearful of other things that could be done to our country. However, I do not think it was right to force people who were born here into internment camps just because they were of the same race as our enemy. Those Japanese-Americans were Americans in the same right. They were born here just like the people heading our government and, again, I am ashamed.

There is a pretty strong connection between the story of Geronimo and the Apaches and between the Japanese-Americans forced into internment camps during WWII. They were both taken prisoner by their government and forced from their homes due to the fear that they were dangerous. The fear stemmed from what had been heard about their group or what was thought they would do and were capable of. Both groups were misunderstood and never given the chance to prove that they were loyal to the United States.
I also thought there was an interesting connection in trying to hold on to the memories of the past even when they were far away from those times and places. I think both stories had it right. It wasn’t what you had that would make you better off. The things that you came from and could look to for comfort during the bad times were very important and helped Willie and Emi to get through their ordeals. This is also an important lesson for children to learn that it’s not always things but people and your past memories that can not be taken away.
One sad difference is that many Japanese-Americans were free to go where they wanted to once released but most of the Apaches in Geronimo never got to go back to their real homes and resume their lives. Both books reveal the racial prejudices that are often avoided when teaching history to children for fear that it will be too much for them to handle. But it is important to children to know about these events so that they will not allow them to happen again.

I believe that there is a strong connection between Geronimo and The Bracelet. I believe that these two books are two very good examples of multicultural books that teachers could use in there classes. I agree with Dr. Frye that you learn from historical fiction books, and I believe that through the use of these books children will become more informed about the Japanese Americans and the Apache Indians. I feel that incorporating multicultural literature into our classrooms is very important with the ever-growing diverse culture of the United States.

I feel both of these books dealt with the oppression from the United States. I did not realize that the Japanese Americans were placed in interment camps during WWII, and I did not realize that the Japanese men became actual "prisoners of war." Even though The Bracelet was a younger children's book, I felt that the meaning behind the book was very powerful. To see the realities of how Americans treat minorities and even their own citizens is disturbing. The quote in the novel Geronimo that Andrew Jackson said about the Apaches was absolutely horrible. To see our leadership looking upon minorities and other human beings like this is horrible. How are Americans supposed to feel about minorities when the leadership is telling them to be scared and fear them, that they are dangerous people?

I enjoyed both books. I hope to use both in my teaching career in the future.

I definitely agree with what Candace said about fear. The theme in both of these stories is forced relocation, with the Japanese Americans and the Native Americans. They were both forced to relocate because of the fear in Americans of how these people might hurt them. They were both told through the eyes of children, which, a lot of the time, is more touching than when a story like this is told by an adult. This is a great way to teach children about times like these, through people like them. It allows kids to put themselves in the situation to understand completely the way they feel.

The forced relocation of Japanese Americans to internment camps during WWII greatly parallels the forced relocation of Native Americans as prisoners of war. Although Japanese Americans were never technically called prisoners of war, they were treated that way. I think it is sad how someone could live in our country as Americans for generations and still be treated as foreigners. Native Americans were also treated very poorly. They weren't given enough provisions to fully sustain their needs. Although it was clear to many that they would never try to escape, they were still treated poorly. Also when people got to know them they realized that they were peaceful people who's only real fight was with the Mexicans. Japanese Americans were like any other American citizens. They were respected as neighbors and friends such as in the book The Bracelet. I believe that if something in our society paralleled what happened during WWII, it would be how Middle Eastern peoples were treated after 911. I heard stories in the news about how people were shunning Middle Eastern people probably because of their underlying fear of another attack even though many of those people are American citizens.