(6 bks)
Draper, S. (2003). The Battle of Jericho. New York, NY. Antheneum Books for Young Readers.
Book type: Chapter book, 297 pages
Grades: 8 and up
Awards:
2004 Coretta Scott King Author Award Winner
Summary: The focus of this book tells the story of peer pressure, popularity, and hazing. Jericho was very excited when asked to help with the toy drive that The Warriors of Distinction held every year. This meant the beginning of the process to be asked to become a Warrior. Although this club has lasted for almost fifty years, it looks great when looking from the outside in. When Jericho and a few of his friends were asked to join, the initiation rituals seemed harmless and only a little humiliating, but as the week progressed, the things the initiates were asked to do bordered on hazing. Jericho struggled with whether he was doing the right thing or if he should drop out, then all the initiates would suffer. During the initiation week things turn twisted and become deadly.
Credibility of Author: Draper wrote this book at the suggestion of a ninth-grade student. She was asked by this student to write a book about what they make teens do to be accepted at her school. Draper was intrigued and started asking young people around the country what they thought about the idea. Students offered suggestions about activities, clubs, and sports teams that involved activities that could be classified as hazing, which is illegal in all states. Other students told her about dealing with the kind of peer pressure that is unspoken, but very, very powerful.
Illustrator/Illustrations: The jacket photograph is by Eric Boscoul and jacket design is by Russell Gordon.
National Standards: Physical Education Standards: Physical Activity, Physical Fitness, Responsible Behavior, Respect for Others, Understanding Challenge
Access features: There is a dedication page and each chapter begins with the date that helps the reader to follow along of when things are happening in the story. There is a book jacket that summary of the book and information about the author and a short summary about the book.
My response to the book: This book took an interesting approach to how teens feel the pressure to fit in and do what it takes to become popular. However, I wished that more emphasis would have been place on Jericho’s decision about competing in the musical contest for a scholarship to Julliard. It seemed very important to him in the beginning of the book. This initiation phase reminded me of my first week of basic training. I was like the characters who were a little scared and unsure of themselves during this time.
How I would use this book in my classroom: I would use this book to help my students understand that some things are more important than just trying to fit in. I think it would be a great book to discuss peer pressure with my students. Additionally, I would explain to them that if the person that they chose only likes them because of the club they are in, then they don’t need that person anyway.
Related text: Shattering Glass by Gail Giles and You Don't Know Me by David Klass
1 comment:
I don't know how I've missed reading this book! After reading your annotation, it's a "must read" on my list before I teach Children's Lit next semester.
I've read "You Don't Know Me", one of the related texts--it's another good one!
I didn't know you had been in the service!
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