Author Study: AVI
Avi. (1988). Something upstairs: a tale of ghosts. New York: Orchard Books.
Avi. (1991). Nothing but the truth: a documentary novel. New York: Orchard Books.
Two different novel topics and styles; yet, both are presented as true stories.
Something Upstairs could also be cataloged as a Historical Fiction. From the very start, Avi draws in the reader on page one with "Author's Explanation" and ends with two pages epilogue. There is no doubt in my mind that Avi gets fan mail with questions about Kenny, the main character in this extremely suspenseful mystery with social diversity issues. I also know that Avi loves to do "Reader's Theater" and this tale would make a fantastic radio broadcast. I could not find any audio recording of this book but, I'm sure since this a beloved book of his, that perhaps, he could be swayed to produce a "podcast"! There is nothing in this book that suggests that it is dated and it's been over twenty years since it's first publication. I think it works quite well as "double-dipper" (mystery/historical fiction) for middle school & high school students. It is also a quick-read for reluctant readers.
Nothing but the Truth, which received the 1992 Newbery Honor as well as, the ALA Notable Children's Books, 1992. and YALSA 100 Best Books (1950-2000).
The story is a bit disturbing and at times could be too much for a younger reader. The story deals with a freshmen in high school, who is coming-of-age. Breaking a school rule at this age is not that all uncommon; however, the one that Philip Malloy chooses is quite controversial. This novel is written in "Reader's Theater" style and also variegates with a sprinkling of notes, memos and telegrams. I think the book deals with higher level thinking and would challenging for a "younger" reader. As a n adult reader, and working in a school, I could easily see this the story lines taking place today even though Avi wrote it in the early 1990's. I think the ultimate purpose of the book is alert teachers and administrators of how they create policies that go against Constitutional Rights and also as wake-up call on the ridiculous policy of retaining teachers year-after-year, when they should be "put out to pasture". The book does a fine job of Beginning, Middle and End but, just didn't grab and hook me.
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