Hugo Cabret

Read the book and then do a comparison between the book and the movie. HINT ... the book is almost always better.

Children of war by Deborah Ellis

Deborah Ellis once again brings to light the voice of children. In Children of War, Ellis compiles the stories of Iraqi children displaced by war.

These children share their fears and hopes for themselves and their families. The stories run the gamut from children of wealthy families once allied with Saddam Hussein to impoverished children left physically and mentally scared. Some children see how they can make a new life in the west. Other stories do not hold such hope; these children have lost most members of their family and one is left to wonder who will take of these 'children of war'.

The stories are all heartbreaking. Ellis has a very easy style to her writing which makes her work suitable for a variety of reading levels. A brief introduction offers an easily accessible overview of the modern history of Iraq and helps set the context for the interviews Ellis conducted with the children.

Reading level is suitable for grade 8. However, I would recommend this book to all students grades 8-12.