I just read the first 6 chapters, and I'm glad I chose this book...it's a quick read, and a really interesting topic, one we'll all be dealing with. The issue of gender isn't one we've talked about all that much beyond that one summer class, and never really in relation to English instruction. I think it's definitely worth taking the time to consider. Plus the samples of boy writing are great and hilarious.
Let's see...personally I'm interested in this because as a bookseller I've encountered so many moms who come to the store asking how to get their boys to read. Or they say, my kid likes comics, what else is out there for him? Or, he ONLY reads fantasy. It's been fun over the years to develop a sort of knowledge of what younger boys enjoy reading on their own time, and I think by knowing what they read I'm more open to their writing, if that makes sense. In short, the violence aspect, comic aspect, etc. doesn't really bother me. Maybe because it's still all in the abstract and I haven't read any gun stories (with me, the teacher, as victim) but I agree with Ralph Fletcher when he says that writing is a place for kids to work it out. There are lines to be drawn, of course, but it would be ridiculous to think that every violent story breeds a violent person.
I liked what Fletcher said about creating a space that feels like home, and helping kids feel comfortable with failure (I'd argue that's not just a boy thing).
Kristin, I agree that this book is a pretty quick and engaging read.
I think that one of the most interesting aspects of the book is how Fletcher talks about the way that teachers' fears (and society's fears) stifle boy writers. This is just one of the many problems caused by the whole "culture of fear" that our country has existed in over the past decade. Because of Columbine (and subsequent school shootings), any signs of violence in a child is viewed as some sort of "warning" of future potential problems. This reminded me of Rodgerson's class, and the whole idea that some of this kind of violent behavior and thought is hardwired in boys.
So, basically, the problem doesn't just lie with boy writers, but with us, as teachers, and we need to strive to provide a place where students can be free to be creative.
This book is pretty dope. I'm through chapter 10 now (but I'm just getting around to responding to the first 6 chapters.
Here's some highlights for me:
-"Beach Trap" poem on page 9 -All of chapter 2 (the piece on "failing to thrive") -All of chapter 5 (the piece on choice) I think this is by far the best chapter in the book thus far. I think giving boys (and girls) the chance to write "whatever they want" is a great way to get them involved in writing. Also, page 46 has some great "tips" on implementing choice into the classroom. -The "Beautiful Fights" story page 53.
I completely agree that this book is a very quick and easy read. I was really entertained in the way Fletcher says we should let boys be boys...let them write what they want to write about, even if it "appears" to be too violent or graphic. I think we should give a handout of the tips on page 46 "What Can I Do in my classroom" - l8r
Maybe I should buy this book.
ReplyDeleteOh Joe.
ReplyDeleteI just read the first 6 chapters, and I'm glad I chose this book...it's a quick read, and a really interesting topic, one we'll all be dealing with. The issue of gender isn't one we've talked about all that much beyond that one summer class, and never really in relation to English instruction. I think it's definitely worth taking the time to consider. Plus the samples of boy writing are great and hilarious.
Let's see...personally I'm interested in this because as a bookseller I've encountered so many moms who come to the store asking how to get their boys to read. Or they say, my kid likes comics, what else is out there for him? Or, he ONLY reads fantasy. It's been fun over the years to develop a sort of knowledge of what younger boys enjoy reading on their own time, and I think by knowing what they read I'm more open to their writing, if that makes sense. In short, the violence aspect, comic aspect, etc. doesn't really bother me. Maybe because it's still all in the abstract and I haven't read any gun stories (with me, the teacher, as victim) but I agree with Ralph Fletcher when he says that writing is a place for kids to work it out. There are lines to be drawn, of course, but it would be ridiculous to think that every violent story breeds a violent person.
I liked what Fletcher said about creating a space that feels like home, and helping kids feel comfortable with failure (I'd argue that's not just a boy thing).
That's enough for now...
Joe, that cracked me up.
ReplyDeleteKristin, I agree that this book is a pretty quick and engaging read.
I think that one of the most interesting aspects of the book is how Fletcher talks about the way that teachers' fears (and society's fears) stifle boy writers. This is just one of the many problems caused by the whole "culture of fear" that our country has existed in over the past decade. Because of Columbine (and subsequent school shootings), any signs of violence in a child is viewed as some sort of "warning" of future potential problems. This reminded me of Rodgerson's class, and the whole idea that some of this kind of violent behavior and thought is hardwired in boys.
So, basically, the problem doesn't just lie with boy writers, but with us, as teachers, and we need to strive to provide a place where students can be free to be creative.
Word.
I went to three bookstores today and none had the book. On my honor, I will get it tomorrow.
ReplyDeleteThis book is pretty dope. I'm through chapter 10 now (but I'm just getting around to responding to the first 6 chapters.
ReplyDeleteHere's some highlights for me:
-"Beach Trap" poem on page 9
-All of chapter 2 (the piece on "failing to thrive")
-All of chapter 5 (the piece on choice) I think this is by far the best chapter in the book thus far. I think giving boys (and girls) the chance to write "whatever they want" is a great way to get them involved in writing. Also, page 46 has some great "tips" on implementing choice into the classroom.
-The "Beautiful Fights" story page 53.
Peace out homies!
Geez .. I completely forgot to post this...
ReplyDeleteI completely agree that this book is a very quick and easy read. I was really entertained in the way Fletcher says we should let boys be boys...let them write what they want to write about, even if it "appears" to be too violent or graphic. I think we should give a handout of the tips on page 46 "What Can I Do in my classroom" - l8r