Tag: classroom

This one is for the teachers

educated by Tara Westover

            I read educated by Tara Westover on the recommendation of friends and family, and not only am I thankful for their recommendations but I would argue that if there is one story educators should take the time to read outside of their classrooms this year, this is it. Westover’s novel is a memoir related to her journey in learning, but the descriptions she offers and the memories she examines are so terrifyingly vivid that it can become difficult to comprehend her experiences as a reality. As someone so incredibly fortunate to be raised surrounded by so much love and laughter, many of Westover’s memories were not only horrifying to me, but also felt strange, as though there was an impossibility related to the choices her family made. More than the horror associated with her family’s actions, I felt a deep admiration for the strength and courage that Westover describes as she chooses to prioritize her learning, and herself. When we see others experience, or hear of others experiencing, less than desirable situations it can sometimes be easy to suggest that they ought to make different choices to better remedy their situation. educated by Tara Westover provides honest insight into the challenges individuals face when they desire to change their circumstances, and the power associated with the opportunity to learn. As a teacher it reinforced aspects of my educational philosophy that focus on the impact of personal experiences and perceptions on learning, the power of education and access to information, and the role of learning in students’ lives as it takes place beyond the walls of a classroom. Readers should be aware that this novel describes experiences which may be sensitive, especially family violence and unsafe labour.

Because of Dr. Smith

THE HEART IS A LONELY HUNTER by Carson McCullers

            Taking the time to read Carson McCullers’ THE HEART IS A LONELY HUNTER was an important reminder for me of how our relationships as educators are capable of offering long lasting impacts on students’ reading. I initially picked up this novel after seeing it in a bookstore and being reminded of my first year as an undergrad student when my English professor, Dr. Smith, included McCullers’ The BALLAD of the SAD CAFÉ (another worthwhile read) in our course syllabus. I had really enjoyed reading The BALLAD of the SAD CAFÉ but had not yet taken the time to read more of McCullers’ work. Going forward, I realized how much my own professors and teachers had influenced both my reading interests, and the variety of literature that I have been exposed to. I encourage you to take a moment to reflect on the educators that have positively impacted your reading choices thus far, and how you are capable of positively impacting student reading by familiarizing yourself with a greater variety of genres, and incorporating them into your course plans as well as your classroom library. This latest read evoked joy, sadness, and intrigue in a way that only southern gothic literature is capable of. McCullers is dedicated to exposing the depth of pain and compassion present in her characters’ lives as she establishes a plot centered around the lonely Mr. Singer. Members of the early twentieth century community in Georgia are drawn to Mr. Singer as they seek his silent wisdom in response to their queries and woes. Unknowingly, Mr. Singer brings together members of his community with his kindness. As with all southern gothic there is an aspect of the absurd, and a truth that functions to describe the uncomfortable aspects of society we aren’t always willing to address. Novels that address the reality of our world often include sensitive topics, and THE HEART IS A LONELY HUNTER is no exception. Readers should be aware that the novel details childhood violence, discrimination on the basis of race, the struggle of poverty, death of a loved one, and death by suicide. As an educator I would not introduce this novel into my class in its entirety, but would instead suggest the inclusion of short passages that illustrate characteristics of southern gothic as students are made aware of a growing list of genres and what defines them.

a sure-fire read

LITTLE FIRES EVERYWHERE by Celeste Ng

            A novel worth all of the hype, Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng offers an immersion in the emotional roller coaster that is teenage life, coupled with intricate mystery and an examination of how we determine identity. Primary characters and mothers, Elena Richardson and Mia Warren lead seemingly opposite lives that encourage readers to question what it means to be happy, and how we set out to achieve that happiness in our lives. Ng’s writing is capable of entertaining even the hardest to reach readers and is a sure recommendation for secondary teachers’ classroom libraries.

Oh So Delicious

KITCHENS OF THE GREAT MIDWEST by J. Ryan Stradal

            An expertly interwoven tapestry of unique perspectives, character development, subtle mystery, and exquisite recipes, KITCHENS OF THE GREAT MIDWEST is a must read. Stradal has established a steady, even paced plot that brings the main character Eva Thorvald to life amidst the crises of a world that is sure to resonate with all audiences. Readers should appreciate the opportunity to be immersed in the life of Eva Thorvald and all those who leave lasting impacts on her kitchen; their hearts will break with hers and their minds will grow strong with her undeniable determination. In an act of wizardry, the elements of this novel form a world so real that readers will begin to love and care for Eva as if she was a dear childhood friend. What is more, readers will be inspired to continue the pursuit of their wildest ambitions after being part of Eva’s journey. It is recommended that this novel be read with snacks at hand as the mouth-watering descriptions of Eva’s creations are sure to make you hungry! This novel integrates the use of varying perspectives and would prove to be a wonderful opportunity for high school students to analyze how character voice can be a tool to manipulate information provided to readers. It should be noted that issues explored within KITCHENS OF THE GREAT MIDWEST include loss of a parent and struggles with substance use that may be sensitive to some readers.

Hopefully you’re persuaded to read this

PERSUASION by Jane Austen

            Short and sweet just like this post, PERSUASION by Jane Austen is the equivalent of a nineteenth century must watch Sunday matinee. This novel follows the life of Anne Elliot and associates after her estranged love interest, Captain Wentworth, re-enters the scene. Of course, the return of Captain Wentworth prompts several love triangles to emerge. No spoilers here though, you’ll have to read to find out if the characters get their happy ending! Throughout my reading of the novel I kept asking myself why I had not been asked to read this in high school. That said, I challenge high school English teachers to encourage their students to read PERSUASION, or better yet, to incorporate the novel into their courses. In particular, I think it is important to note the opportunity for students to explore character development in PERSUASION through dramatic readings of the novel, or for students to create their own theatrical interpretations of scenes from the novel.