Book Review: Echo

 

1. BIBLIOGRAPHY

Ryan, P. M. (2015). Echo. Scholastic Press. ISBN: 9780439874021

2.  PLOT SUMMARY

This Newberey Honor book tells three stories that are broken down into 4 parts. These stories are set in Germany and America, in the years leading up to World War II and details how a mysterious harmonica with the M initial and the music it makes ties together the lives of three children Friedrich, Mike and Ivy.

3.CRITICAL ANALYSIS

In true Pam Munoz Ryan style, she brilliantly brings each one of the characters to life through her descriptive writing and character development. This novel has different elements of fantasy such as enchantment and mystery, but it can also be considered historical fiction as it is set during WWII era. Based on the writing and story details, it is evident that Ryan carefully researched the time period. However, I was a little conflicted with this book. On one side, I thought the book was well developed, but I wasn’t a fan of the cliffhangers at the end of each individual story. On a positive note, Ryan did a fantastic job of tying the stories together and presenting the elements of music and hope. Overall, although this book was well written, it was not my favorite. I felt like it started off slow, and I was not a fan of the cliffhangers.

4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

A Newbery Honor Book

Starred review in Kirkus: "A grand narrative that examines the power of music to inspire beauty in a world overrun with fear and intolerance."

Starred review in School Library Journal: “Ryan has created three contemporary characters who, through faith and perseverance, write their own happy endings…”

Starred review in Publishers Weekly: "Each individual story is engaging, but together they harmonize to create a thrilling whole."

5. CONNECTIONS

* Engage students in a discussion about the different stories that are told. Have students compare and contrast the 4 different characters (Mike, Ivy, Fredrick, and Otto).   

* Have students create a story board detailing the plot for each of the stories shared in this novel. Remind students to use a Plot diagram to help them complete their story board.  

*Other books by Pam Munoz Ryan

Ryan, P. M., & Sís, P. (2012). The dreamer. Scholastic. ISBN: 0439269989

Ryan, P. M. (2023). Solimar: The sword of the monarchs. Disney Hyperion.

ISBN: 1368078443

Book review was written for SHSU MLA course. 

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