If I were to pick a central idea from this book beyond its controversies, I would choose the concept of communication. This novel shows how ignoring a topic only perpetuates an issue. It is only through addressing complex topics that growth can be had. Not only do the conversations in the book bridge the empathy gap, but all books alike bridge that gap by allowing an individual to step into another's life.
“There are stories behind everything.“ The narrative decision to share character insights from the anagrams of Gideon and Roberto is fascinating. Each interpersonal relationship holds alternative interpretations for understanding how characters communicate. Countless details could be dissected from this narrative, highlighting the importance of diction and its impact on different individuals.
The number of people negatively affected by the controversy that Donovan's mom began with, solely challenging his class book, is appalling. So much can be said about why his mother challenged the book, but on a lighter note, how sweet would it be to have a class as invested in classroom literature as Mr Howe's class! They are so willing to back up their teacher and his book choice!
“...a person's humanity should never be a matter of debate. Instead, it is a matter of the highest principle we can aspire to, which is equality“ (page 146).
This quote is so very relevant in today's political climate. I think, as adults, and especially as teachers, that we should be aware of how advanced children can be emotionally... How aware they can be of their surroundings, and the implications of adults' behavior.
“'While the meaning of a book may be informed by the author‘s intentions, it isn‘t defined by them. Meaning comes from the combination of what the author puts in and what the reader takes out'“ (Levithan 59).
The beauty of reading is that it is a personal experience with no one correct answer. Authors are reflecting something meaningful to them that they hope to connect to readers' unique experiences but don't expect a uniform response.
Initially, the structure of this book confused me, but as I have progressed through it, I am starting to see it come together. Like Flying Lessons and Mexikid, I like that Answers in the Pages introduces a unique style of writing for students to see. A cool assignment to do with this book is to split the class into three groups and have each group become experts on each story and jigsaw it to bring it all together!
“'We are who we are, and we'll be who we'll be. A book can make us *feel* that, but it can't *invent* that. It's already inside us,'“ (Levithan 122).
Among so much else in this book, Donovan's open conversation with his mother brings about this quote. While I was reading, I thought about its truth in my own life. But even more important is the truth this will bring to students: unlearning prejudices or becoming more of themselves without fear.
I finished this on the eleventh of June, but wanted to weigh the story...then reality became extra crazy...and remains frightening.
Warning, the following is a long babbling review.
This read was good, yet nothing like I expected.
There's no rhyme or reason to which book I investigate, nor how much I investigate, before reading.
I didn't give this book much research beforehand. I had learned that it had been banned, possibly even burned.
👇🏼
Catching up on #Bangladesh reading for #FoodandLit which I almost completely missed. Lajja (also titled Shame) is a recount of the 1992 anti-Hindu riots that took place in Bangladesh after the destruction of Babri Masjid & anti-Muslim riots in India, through the eyes of a culturally-Hindu atheist family. I am on page 112 & it is relentless.
@Catsandbooks @Texreader
Pic of Burigonda River by Jubair Bin Iqbal, via wikimedia ⬇
What does it take to stand up for the right to read? For Amanda Jones, it took extraordinary courage and unwavering conviction. After sharing a thoughtful, respectful comment about the dangers of censorship, she became the target of viral misinformation and harsh public criticism.
Read more: https://magazine.1000libraries.com/this-louisiana-librarian-stood-up-against-boo...
#TheCollide #KimberlyMcCreight #BannedBooks
