Home to Classroom Young Adult Book Kids Love

Thanks to Tor Books for this great guest post!

Bridging the connection between learning in the classroom and learning at home isn’t always easy, but every now and then, a book comes along that changes the game. The 5th installment in the “Alcatraz vs. the Evil Librarians” series, The Dark Talent, by Brandon Sanderson is the perfect read for middle grade students – the following 4 resources make it an asset for educators too!

1: Companion Teachers Guide: To enhance the reading of The Dark Talent and give teachers a way to broaden the scope of what students can take away from the book series, Tor Books (a division of Macmillan Publishing) developed a one-of-a-kind Teacher’s Guide in alignment with the Common Core State Standards. While educators are free to adapt the content to suit the needs and interests of their students or reading group participants, the guide serves as a basis for exceptional lesson plans, group discussions, and in-depth analysis middle grade readers don’t always have the chance to embrace. Get it today >

2. Interior Illustrations: The striking imagery and illustrations by Hayley Lazo found in The Dark Talent brings fantasy fiction to life for young adults. As Publisher’s Weekly called the book, it is ““Like Lemony Snicket and superhero comics rolled into one.” Lazo captures mood, dynamic movement, characters and scenery in the accompanying illustrations that so uniquely fill the book, giving young readers vivid snapshots of the action in this fast-paced story. Inspiring both readers, writers and young artists, The Dark Talent is rich with detail the benefits both discussions in the classroom and at home.

3. Writing Structure & Literary Devices: Middle grade readers will love the genre exploration of fantasy fiction that bridges real world experiences with magical and mythological elements that also dip into science fiction. Untraditional approaches to point of view and wordplay, full of wonderful asides and directed narration to the reader, makes The Dark Talent great inspiration for student reading journals, research projects and writing prompts. And in-depth character study of the heroes and villains makes The Dark Talent prime fodder for homework assignments that involve discussing the book with parents and friends. Learn more > 

4. Series Installment: Teachers and parents know an engrossing book series is a great way to get students of all ages hooked on reading! With The Dark Talent being a fifth installment in the “Alcatraz vs. the Evil Librarians” series, educators and parents have a new and special way to motivate students to read regularly. Bridging that classroom to home gap is easier with a path paved by great reads and intriguing literary exploration. Buy a copy of The Dark Talent today, click here >