English 3 has historically been focused around a study of American Literature, and while “the classics” have a lot to offer, it sometimes takes months to really prepare students to make the most of discussions around Of Mice and Men, The Great Gatsby, and A Raisin in the Sun. That is why I am planning to use this Young Adult novel at the beginning of our class together to immediately engage them with a book that will surprise them with its readability, its depiction of real familial and social struggles, and its subtle use of humor that is part of everyday, awkward teenage life. It will make students laugh but also give them a platform to talk about hard topics such as racism, alcohol abuse, domestic violence, loss and grief, difficult friendships, and growing up. A central question for our course is, "What is America?" and this 21st-century book adds a crucial response to that investigation.
Since its publication in 2007, teachers have attested to its excellence and have recognized its literary merit and accessibility to students of various ages (it was named a National Book Award winner for Young Adult Literature for a reason). Despite recently celebrating its tenth anniversary, The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian could not be more timely for today’s teenagers. Upon re-reading it this summer, I was reminded of the unassuming way it mirrors authentic adolescence experiences, from the humorous to the tragic. And I agree with one Educator, whose praises are included in this edition, that it “opens an avenue for students to talk to each other about literature and about heavy themes handled with a light touch.” As a teacher of English today, I think that’s an invaluable thing a text can offer our nation’s young people.
About my class
English 3 has historically been focused around a study of American Literature, and while “the classics” have a lot to offer, it sometimes takes months to really prepare students to make the most of discussions around Of Mice and Men, The Great Gatsby, and A Raisin in the Sun. That is why I am planning to use this Young Adult novel at the beginning of our class together to immediately engage them with a book that will surprise them with its readability, its depiction of real familial and social struggles, and its subtle use of humor that is part of everyday, awkward teenage life. It will make students laugh but also give them a platform to talk about hard topics such as racism, alcohol abuse, domestic violence, loss and grief, difficult friendships, and growing up. A central question for our course is, "What is America?" and this 21st-century book adds a crucial response to that investigation.
Since its publication in 2007, teachers have attested to its excellence and have recognized its literary merit and accessibility to students of various ages (it was named a National Book Award winner for Young Adult Literature for a reason). Despite recently celebrating its tenth anniversary, The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian could not be more timely for today’s teenagers. Upon re-reading it this summer, I was reminded of the unassuming way it mirrors authentic adolescence experiences, from the humorous to the tragic. And I agree with one Educator, whose praises are included in this edition, that it “opens an avenue for students to talk to each other about literature and about heavy themes handled with a light touch.” As a teacher of English today, I think that’s an invaluable thing a text can offer our nation’s young people.
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