This is where we will post annotated bibliographies of the books that we are reading in class. It will become a database of potential reading titles in case you get stuck about what you want to read in the future and will be a legacy passed on to RW classes in the future.
The Readers’ Workshop Annotated Bibliography
Annotated bibliographic entries summarize reading selections. They are used as a quick reference and/or resource for the reader, as well as for other readers in determining interest or appropriateness of various texts. You are required to prepare an annotated bibliographic entry for each of the works you read. Each entry should contain 7-10 (this one is 11) sentences, be written on a 5×8 index card, and follow the sample format noted below. The information included in the entries will vary according to the type of selection chosen. For example, fiction pieces should include a plot synopsis, characters, conflict, themes and the literary elements/techniques the author uses to develop the themes, while non-fiction pieces would contain a description. Both types of works should include a recommendation.
Example
The Posionwood Bible by Barbara Kingsolver
The Poisonwood Bible is told by the varying points of view of four sisters and their mother. The story about their transplanted lives into the unforgiving Belgian Congo with their missionary father is gripping as we learn about the harshness of living in the Congo and the harsher reality of living with their father. The most remarkable thing about this book is Kingsolver’s strong command of individual voice as each person tells the story. For example, Adah has the ability to write in palindromes and writes entire sentences and even a paragraph that says the same thing backward as forward. One is “Live was I ere I saw evil.” Kingsolver blends these statements into themes for the chapter. Her twin sister, Leah, develops as the strong one who questions her place, “There’s a great holy war going on in my father’s mind, in which we’re meant to duck and run and obey orders…” The climax of the story is surprising, satisfying, and even philosophical. “We are the balance of our damage and our transgressions,” ponders Adah. At the end of the story we fully understand Adah’s comment and the theme presented throughout the book. Poisonwood Bible is Kingsolver’s masterpiece.
Important Items of Note:
- The name of the book is underlined
- Point of view, voice, palindromes, climax, and theme are all literary elements and techniques used by
- the author and are highlighted in the annotation.
- Examples of voice are given along with a definition and explanation of Kingsolver’s (the author) use of palindromes.
- Although this bibliography does not give a plot synopsis, we have a general idea of what the book is about and its characters.
- The theme of the book is noted through a quotation from the book.
- Stating that this book is Kingsolver’s masterpiece implies a recommendation.
- There is an image of the cover of the book.