Animal Farm by George Orwell is one of those novels that every student will most likely read in their lives. One of the books in the current literary canon, it has helped demonstrate the evils of communism through an allegorical depiction of the Russian Revolution. By using a seemingly innocent setting, Orwell tells the horrific story of a group of animals as they attempt to overthrow human rule.
Ramona Quimby, Age 8 by Beverly Cleary is a realistic fiction story about a girl named Ramona, her sister Beezus, and her parents. We are allowed a close up look at this family as they handle the pressures of everyday life, adjustments to new schools for the girls and the dad, money issues, and family responsibilities. All of this is seen through the eyes and imagination of Ramona.
The story of Strega Nona may sound familiar because it is a retelling of a familiar folktale. It can be compared to such stories as “The Porridge Pot”, a German folktale, or even The Sorcerer’s Apprentice. In this version Tomie dePaola retells the story with an Italian setting and flavor.
The people of Calabria frequently visit Strega Nona , Grandma Witch, because she helps them with problems using her very special potions. She conjures remedies for their difficulties , and everyone is happy and satisfied with the results of their visits to her.