About BC Books Online
BC Books Online was created for anyone interested in BC-published books, and with librarians especially in mind. We'd like to make it easy for library staff to learn about books from BC publishers - both new releases and backlist titles - so you can inform your patrons and keep your collections up to date.
Our site features print books and ebooks - both new releases and backlist titles - all of which are available to order through regular trade channels. Browse our subject categories to find books of interest or create and export lists by category to cross-reference with your library's current collection.
A quick tip: When reviewing the "Browse by Category" listings, please note that these are based on standardized BISAC Subject Codes supplied by the books' publishers. You will find additional selections, grouped by theme or region, in our "BC Reading Lists."
Description
The principal announces that the school is implementing uniforms, and Ian finds himself caught in a conflict.
Julia, the student body president and Ian's friend, wants Ian to devise a plan to fight the decision, but the principal is determined to convince Ian the uniforms are a good idea. Ian doesn't see the problem with uniforms and wants nothing to do with the issue, but while doing research for a social-justice class, Ian learns that the manufacturer of the uniforms is on the top-ten list in the industry for human-rights violations. When he tells the principal their clothing is being made in sweatshops using child labor, all he gets is a reminder that the penalty for refusing to wear the uniforms is expulsion. Ian finds himself caught in a whole new conflict—one with himself.
This short novel is a high-interest, low-reading level book for middle-grade readers who are building reading skills, want a quick read or say they don’t like to read! The epub edition of this title is fully accessible.
Contributor Notes
Eric Walters is a Member of the Order of Canada and the author of over 115 books that have collectively won more than 100 awards, including the Governor General's Literary Award for The King of Jam Sandwiches. A former teacher, Eric began writing as a way to get his fifth-grade students interested in reading and writing. Eric is a tireless presenter, speaking to over one hundred thousand students per year in schools across the country. He lives in Guelph, Ontario.
Recommended Age, Grade, and Reading Levels
- Age:
- 9 to 12
- Grade:
- 4 to 7
- Reading age:
- 9 to 12
Awards
- Short-listed, Silver Birch Award nominee
- , Forest of Reading Silver Birch Fiction Award
- Commended, CCBC Best Books starred selection
- Commended, CCBC Best Books for Kids & Teens, starred selection
Editorial Reviews
"The plot…moves quickly, making for a quick read. A good choice for libraries looking to add to their hi/lo collections."
— School Library Journal (SLJ)
"A thought-provoking story with engaging characters and a well-paced plot. Many readers will enjoy Branded simply as a good read but this novel would also suit a literature circle or discussion group."
— Resource Links
"Walters explores an interesting topic."
— The Horn Book Guide
"Fast-paced and packed with thought-provoking questions as well as humour…The use of social media in organizing events and expressing opinions, as well as their shortcomings, could provoke interesting discussions on etiquette and the Internet…An inspiring and empowering read for youth living in the information age. Highly Recommended."
— CM: Canadian Review of Materials
"A good addition to the hi/lo collection, this fast paced story raises social issues that relate to school and international social issues...Humor contributes to an enjoyable read and use as a possible book discussion with groups."
— BookLinx
"Walters uses Branded to raise awareness of a terrible social issue. Sweatshops are the subject of news broadcasts and articles, but until the products of these companies touch us directly, we tend to turn a blind eye. Teens will be interested in watching Ian as he struggles to make sense of opposing views on the subject and how adults often preach one thing and then practice another."
— Teen Reads Too
"A great lesson about standing up for what you believe."
— Tacoma School District #10
