Sky Carver in the Classroom

. . . the underlying themes in Sky Carver are endless and important, especially for teenagers . . .

This recommendation was written by Sue Martin, a reading teacher for K through 8 students in Piermont, New Hampshire.

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.