"Sky Carver" in the Classroom
Sue Martin is a reading teacher (K-8) in Piermont, NH. She has been to one of my readings and also came to see me lead a brain-storming session for a reading group at another local school. Afterward, we talked about her ideas for using "Sky Carver" as a source for discussion in her seventh-grade class. She was so enthusiastic and so far-ranging in her thoughts (Did I really put all that in the book?) that I asked her to write down her ideas. Here they are. (I guess I did!)
I would like to state up front that I am not usually a person who recommends slowing the pace of a story so that it can be studied, but I have to admit I was drawn to the possibilities of reading this book with students and devoting a lot of time to debate and collecting ideas. There are two reasons for this. Firstly, the underlying themes in "Sky Carver" are endless and important, especially for teenagers. It would be a shame to squander the opportunity to point out the economics behind the society, the identity crisis facing the main character, the strength of friendship in any form, the ingenuity we have inherent in us, especially under pressure, and what can happen when parents are not available to guide us.
Secondly, I do not think you can ruin this story, even if it is given to some dissection, because it is strong, exciting, breathtakingly scary in some parts, innovative, and funny. The images that Whitlock gives to us, including characters peeling themselves from paintings, the impact of undisciplined gifts, and selfless friendship, need time for reflection and application to our own world. These themes are too well drawn to be glossed over and underappreciated.
I believe that this is an important book and I would recommend it for young adolescent classes.
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"Sky Carver has greatly detailed characters who have very unique personalities. The characters aren't just some made up fantasy people, so don't be fooled because the genre is fantasy. Fantasy doesn't mean the characters aren't believable. I think Sky Carver is a wonderful book for magic lovers."
–Amy Arquilla, Grade 8
Volney Rogers Junior High
Youngstown, OH
"This is a fantasty/adventure lover's book. The well-written and unpredictable complex plot make this book hard to put down!"
–Darla
Best Books for Young Adults Reviewers Circle
Flint Public Library
Flint,
MI
"This coming of age fantasy of bird magic, paint, woodcraft and sorcery in a world where one's name prescribes one's life was an intriguing read with unexpected twists and powerful characters. An excellent new book for middle graders."
–Susan Voake, Librarian
Marion Cross School
Norwich, VT
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