Jewell-+A+Curse+as+Dark+as+Gold



Bunce, E.C. (2008). //A curse as dark as gold.// New York, NY: Scholastic Inc. **ISBN:** 978-1616574574


 * Award: ** Morris Award 2009


 * Summary: ** //A Curse as Dark as Gold// is a retelling of the tale of Rumpelstiltskin that manages to stay fresh and exciting throughout the book. After her father dies, Charlotte Miller takes on the responsibility of running the family mill because her family and the entire village depends on it. Many unfortunate events leave the mill in a terrible financial situation and Charlotte gets help from Jack Spinner, who can spin wool into gold thread. Spinner demands many things from Charlotte and she concedes to save the mill, until he goes too far. Charlotte must discover why the mill is cursed to save her family.


 * What I Liked: ** I thought the book was a little slow in the beginning, but it quickly took off and I had a hard time putting it down. I was really happy that the book was a retelling of Rumpelstiltskin because it was one of my favorite fairy tales as a child. I enjoy historical fiction, as well, so the setting made the book that much more interesting. Charlotte was an admirable character and I felt like she was very believable. My daughter's name is Charlotte and I'm glad I have a great book character for her to share a name with!


 * Curriculum Connection: **
 * Grades 9-10 **

o analyze the use of supporting details as they relate to the author's message o analyze the relationship between a character's motivation and behavior, as revealed by the dilemmas o explain or analyze how external or internal conflicts are resolved
 * KY.9-10.R.I.SC.5** Students will demonstrate understanding of literary elements and literary passages/texts:


 * Genre: ** Fiction, Fantasy, Historical Fiction

Strategy 25- Book Trailers
 * Classroom Activity: **

For this book, the students would make a book trailer. The story has a compelling plot, rich characters, and universal themes that students could use to create a detailed, thoughtful product. Students would read the book and then work with a partner to determine the plot, main characters, setting, conflict, and themes. The teacher can start a //book talk// or leave that out as time permits. Next, students would discuss which elements they would like in their video and then create a storyboard. After the storyboard is complete, the students would write a script for the narration and choose music and sound effects. Lastly, the students would produce the video to share with their class. The book trailers will help students analyze the elements of the story and ensure that they comprehended the themes and plots.