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TL 16.22.indd 32 Ontario School Library Association TL BookBuzz Rose Holck test scores as the teachers prepare the kids at school for the state achievement test. Th is book highlights the timely topic of standardized testing and provides plenty of opportunity for lively discussion. The Mysterious Benedict Society Trenton Lee Stewart Illustrated by Carson Ellis 2008 9780316003957 Sample Curriculum Links: Junior Language Arts: Reading Intermediate Language Arts: Reading Summary: Are You a Gifted Child Looking for Special Opportunities? Reynie Muldoon is, so he answers this curious newspaper advertisement. After a series of mysterious tests, Reynie and four other kids are chosen by Mr. Benedict to infi ltrate the "Learning Institute for the Very Enlightened" to sidetrack a plot to take over the world. Stewart's inventive use of common themes (orphans struggling against evil forces, abandonment, family, loyalty and facing one's fears) make this a joy to read and will make for an exciting read- aloud. Media Literacy Grades 3-6 Language Arts: Reading Summary: Miss Malarkey's school year is off and running. Unfortunately, preparing for standardized testing isn't far behind. Teachers, students, and parents alike are preparing for "Th e Test" (think EQAO!) and the school is in chaos. Th e school staff and parents insist "Th e Test" is not important, but the bedtime story pop quizzes and "brain food" in the cafeteria suggest otherwise. Th e illustrations contribute to the over-the- top humor and provide fodder for discussion. Who is "Th e Test" really testing? The Report Card Andrew Clements 2005 9780689845246 Sample Curriculum Links: Junior Language Arts: Reading Summary: Nora Rowley is a genius. But she doesn't want that information to be too public since she's got a problem with grades… and testing. Ds and Cs make her happy because it makes her friend, Stephen, happy. She doesn't like how tests and grades make him feel dumb, so she hatches a plan to sabotage First Grade Takes a Test Miriam Cohen Illustrated by Ronald Himler 2006 9781595720542 Sample Curriculum Links: Kindergarten: Personal and Social Development Primary Language Arts: Reading Summary: Originally published in 1980, this newly-illustrated version merits a second look. When a test comes to the fi rst- graders from the principal's offi ce, the children have a little trouble. Th e answers don't seem quite right. After the test, a student goes to a special class based on her high score. Name-calling and unrest follow, until the teacher explains that there is more to school and being a good person than tests. Th is book emphasizes the importance of all types of learning. Cohen's sensitivity to the feelings of children, and Himler's perceptive illustrations make this a must-have for any library. Testing Miss Malarkey Judy Finchler Illustrated by Kevin O'Malley 2003 9780802776242 Sample Curriculum Links: Grade 3 Language Arts: Schools are all about evaluation, especially in these days of standardized tests. It naturally follows that this issue's theme, "Evaluation @ Your Library," brings school stories to mind. Th ese titles (some familiar, some new) are sure to get your kids buzzing about school. Wow! School! Robert Neubecker 2007 9780786838967 Sample Curriculum Links: Primary Visual Arts Primary Media Literacy Summary: It's Izzy's fi rst day of school and, wow! She's excited! Bright, bustling illustrations paired with simple text make it a joy to follow Izzy through her special day. Th is is a great book to share with emergent readers who will love to read along and spot familiar objects, activities and books which include No, David!, No, David!, No, David! Madeline, and the author's own Wow! City!