title: Understanding Great Literature - The Yearling
author:  Jennifer Keeley 
description: "A review of the novel's critical analysis includes many sources. A list of thought-provoking discussion question and essay subject is included. The book is illustrated with black-and-white reproductions of period paintings, portraits...and stills. A useful addition that will serve both teachers and students well." <br /> -- <i>School Library Journal</i> (September 2001) (<i>School Library Journal</i> 20010901)<br /><br />"With its simple format and clear writing, Thrasher's book will appeal to younger students or those who are intimidated by literary assignments." <br /> -- <i>School Library Journal</i> (July 2002) (<i>School Library Journal</i> 20020701)<br /><br />"Clearly written, easy-to-understand book...A copious notes section, a section for further exploration, questions and ideas for themes and essays, and an appendix of literary criticism make this an invaluable teaching and/or library resource. Many black-and-white sketches, drawings, and photos create further interest in this...literary history." <br /> -- <i>School Library Journal</i> (April 2001) (<i>School Library Journal</i> 20010401)<br /><br />"Major characters are covered in detail, and minor characters in brief. Well-organized, prolific notes document chapters for ease in further research. The writing is informative and clear with no glaring biases. A useful tool for unlocking a literary masterpiece." <br /> -- <i>School Library Journal</i> (April 2001) (<i>School Library Journal</i> 20010401)<br /><br />"Each book includes biographical information; historical context; details about plot, characters, and themes; a chronology; source notes; and a bibliography. The literary criticism is lucid without being simplistic. For junior-high and high-school students as well as the adults interested in what teens read." <br /> -- <i>Booklist</i> (March 2001) (<i>Booklist</i> 20010301)
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  For more than forty years,  
  Yearling has been the leading name  
  in classic and award-winning literature for young readers.
  
  
  Yearling books feature children's  
  favorite authors and characters,  
  providing dynamic stories of adventure,  
  humor, history, mystery, and fantasy.
  
  
  Trust Yearling paperbacks to entertain,  
  inspire, and promote the love of reading  
  in all children.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  # OTHER YEARLING BOOKS YOU WILL ENJOY
  
  
  SHREDDERMAN: ATTACK OF THE TAGGER, _Wendelin Van Draanen_
  
  
  SAMMY KEYES AND THE HOTEL THIEF, _Wendelin Van Draanen_
  
  
  I WAS A RAT!, _Philip Pullman_
  
  
  THE FLUNKING OF JOSHUA T. BATES, _Susan Shreve_
  
  
  THE CRICKET IN TIMES SQUARE, _George Selden_
  
  
  BLACK-EYED SUSAN, _Jennifer Armstrong_
  
  
  NIM'S ISLAND, _Wendy Orr_
  
  
  BABE: THE GALLANT PIG, _Dick King-Smith_
  
  
  MANIAC MONKEYS ON MAGNOLIA STREET, _Angela Johnson_
  
  
  HOW TÍA LOLA CAME TO ![](ima