The City of Ember. ISBN 978-0-375-82274-2. Jeanne DuPrau. 2003. American Library Association Notable Book. Ages 9-12. Caucasian.

Lina and Doon are twelve-years-old when life in the city of Ember begins to feel fragile. The sky in Ember is always dark. The supply of lightbulbs is running low, and the generator is breaking down. Lina and Doon are young, curious, and concerned about the future of their city. With open eyes and open minds, they search for clues, combine their knowledge, and realize that the Builders may have left Instructions for finding the world outside of Ember. With city officials, though, who want to keep life (and their own power) as it has been for generations, how will Lina and Doon notify the city that life can continue outside of the city of Ember?

Students could write an ending about what happens to Lina and Doon after they leave Ember and about what happens to the rest of the population in Ember. Students could also design a town or city of their own. Students could also learn about hydropower, including the Hoover Dam and the environmental effects of hydroelectric power.