Temple, F. (1992). Taste of salt: a story of modern Haiti. New York:
Orchard Books.
Haiti and Dominican Republic in the 1980’s and 1990’s were very unsettling. Taste of Salt is based on real incidents and people. Djo, a seventeen year old Haitian, tells a powerful personal story of the poverty and oppression in his country. He does this while recovering in a make-shift hospital which is described more of an aid station. His narration gives insight to the political and social injustices. There are also factual references from the president at the time and his speeches. The novel begins with a map of Haiti and the Dominican Republic. A glossary is also provided at the end of the novel.
In contrast to Djo coming-of-age, there is an adolescent female who feels the political unrest, however, she is protected and sheltered by a mother that sends her to school to get educated at a convent. Her name is Jeremie and she dreams of continuing her education in France where she has been awarded a scholarship.
Both of their accounts are full of helplessness and rays of hopefulness. The grim realities of the military government and the contrast of the harshness and blatant disregard for the sacredness of human lives come to a full-boil as the instinct to thrive and survive independently as the innate spirit of the people of Haiti make way for resistance and revolts. Both Djo and Jeremie are trying to participate in a reformed democracy and also make sense of as they grow into maturity.
The impact on the reader of this book is burdening. There is a sense of urgency and helplessness that pushes the reader to complete the novel and wanting to reflect, discuss and further investigate the current situation globally. The authenticity is clearly genuine and not contrived. As a World-Wide Learners, literature is a natural venue to heighten sensitivity to the needs and problems across cultures. Developing a World-Wide Diversity reading habit results in analysis and commonality. It enhances one’s self-concept and respect for people everywhere.
Monday, July 7, 2008
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
Adolscent Lit. Response 7/1/08 PR, C
Block, F. L. (1989). Weetzie Bat. New York: Harper & Row.
Weetzie Bat is a “quick read” that describes common-law marriage, gay marriage, children out of wedlock, abortion and AIDS, all in a vivid and at times, humorously descriptive, sometimes Disney environment. Actually, the story takes place in Hollywood and even though I have never been to this part of Los Angeles, I think it is was well depicted. This book by all means, pushes itself to the limits and I think it would grab and hold the attention of a mature pre-teen and teenagers interested in the subject manner at hand.
As a middle school librarian, I would not feel comfortable having this particle book in my collection. I have been call to explain myself and my book selections one too many times. Personally, I feel adolescents have First Amendment Rights, however, many parents do not feel the same way I do! Weetzie Bat, has the themes middle school, high school and college students are attracted to, there are blended family issues, homosexuality issues, love issues, drug abuse issues, rape issues, AIDS issues and the I don’t want to grow-up, fairy tale issues. This book, in its own raunchy way is a “coming-of-age” book in its own right. I know students are interested in all the subject matters cover in Weetzie Bat. My school’s collection has several books that deal with the same issues, just maybe not as straight shooting as this book. I have come across sixth grade students, who when let loose in the middle school Library Media Center for the first time, seek out books independently and present books on the above mentioned themes at the check-out. Although, I do not censor the book collection, I tell the students sincerely, “if this book dos not match your family’s values, please stop reading it, return the book and make another selection.” Seventh graders and eight graders usually know better than to fill their parents in on the details of the books they have stashed in their backpacks. Boys and girls are equally interested in “coming-of-age” information founding literature.
What makes this book captivating is that the author, Francesca Lia Block, tells the story in a flowing, breezy voice, which is very attractive to teens. She has an artful wordplay and is hip to pop-culture. The main character, Weetzie is confusing at times but, isn’t that what growing-up is all about? The reader is constantly in critical thinking mode when reading this tale. Text to Self connections are expressed on practically every page. This book defiantly has the power to take the reader and stretch like Silly Puddy™ and expand their thinking and views on cultures that might not match their “white bread & butter” upbringing.
Weetzie Bat is a “quick read” that describes common-law marriage, gay marriage, children out of wedlock, abortion and AIDS, all in a vivid and at times, humorously descriptive, sometimes Disney environment. Actually, the story takes place in Hollywood and even though I have never been to this part of Los Angeles, I think it is was well depicted. This book by all means, pushes itself to the limits and I think it would grab and hold the attention of a mature pre-teen and teenagers interested in the subject manner at hand.
As a middle school librarian, I would not feel comfortable having this particle book in my collection. I have been call to explain myself and my book selections one too many times. Personally, I feel adolescents have First Amendment Rights, however, many parents do not feel the same way I do! Weetzie Bat, has the themes middle school, high school and college students are attracted to, there are blended family issues, homosexuality issues, love issues, drug abuse issues, rape issues, AIDS issues and the I don’t want to grow-up, fairy tale issues. This book, in its own raunchy way is a “coming-of-age” book in its own right. I know students are interested in all the subject matters cover in Weetzie Bat. My school’s collection has several books that deal with the same issues, just maybe not as straight shooting as this book. I have come across sixth grade students, who when let loose in the middle school Library Media Center for the first time, seek out books independently and present books on the above mentioned themes at the check-out. Although, I do not censor the book collection, I tell the students sincerely, “if this book dos not match your family’s values, please stop reading it, return the book and make another selection.” Seventh graders and eight graders usually know better than to fill their parents in on the details of the books they have stashed in their backpacks. Boys and girls are equally interested in “coming-of-age” information founding literature.
What makes this book captivating is that the author, Francesca Lia Block, tells the story in a flowing, breezy voice, which is very attractive to teens. She has an artful wordplay and is hip to pop-culture. The main character, Weetzie is confusing at times but, isn’t that what growing-up is all about? The reader is constantly in critical thinking mode when reading this tale. Text to Self connections are expressed on practically every page. This book defiantly has the power to take the reader and stretch like Silly Puddy™ and expand their thinking and views on cultures that might not match their “white bread & butter” upbringing.
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Changes in Latitudes
Conflict Resolution: There is a simple know fact that just trying to look at thing positively has an effect on your attitude! Research has proven that just deciding to do something better next time can help you find a healthy way to deal with an unpleasant situation. The old "silver lining in every dark cloud" philosophy can actually make a difference! When you search for and focus on what good can come out of your problems,actually can have a positive result on you mood and outlook! There are many situations in life one has to live with, but if one is affirmative, they do not have to let it ruin their life! Suggestions are to use Words: Discuss and think about your problem. Ideas: Have an idea of a compromise and share demands... what could each party give up? Settle:Decide on one compromise to the conflict and finally, Explain: Explain your view point to the opposition and resolve to end the conflict!
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
There's always something New!
@your libraries
Watch "What's New in Libraries?" Channel 24 on Comcast
Increasing the North Suburban Library System member libraries’ visibility is a key goal of What’s New in Libraries? This cable program is created in partnership with the Library Cable Network (LCN) to highlight the many fun and interesting things that member libraries are doing while providing members with the experience of being interviewed on camera.
Can't watch, then you better read this! Sarah Long’s Daily Herald Column, every Tuesday. Sarah is fantastic at bring library topics and events before the public on a weekly basis is the motivation for NSLS Director Sarah Long to write her Daily Herald column. Her articles frequently feature member libraries, quotes and suggestions from their staff, and increase their visibility.
... and don't forget about Digital Past!
Sharing information in new and inventive ways is one of the goals NSLS libraries have pursued. Since 1998, Digital Past has created an online archive of over 35, 000 digital records to allow the participating institutions a chance to share their rare and unique records with the world. This is a great link to add primary sources to any school project and making community connections!
Watch "What's New in Libraries?" Channel 24 on Comcast
Increasing the North Suburban Library System member libraries’ visibility is a key goal of What’s New in Libraries? This cable program is created in partnership with the Library Cable Network (LCN) to highlight the many fun and interesting things that member libraries are doing while providing members with the experience of being interviewed on camera.
Can't watch, then you better read this! Sarah Long’s Daily Herald Column, every Tuesday. Sarah is fantastic at bring library topics and events before the public on a weekly basis is the motivation for NSLS Director Sarah Long to write her Daily Herald column. Her articles frequently feature member libraries, quotes and suggestions from their staff, and increase their visibility.
... and don't forget about Digital Past!
Sharing information in new and inventive ways is one of the goals NSLS libraries have pursued. Since 1998, Digital Past has created an online archive of over 35, 000 digital records to allow the participating institutions a chance to share their rare and unique records with the world. This is a great link to add primary sources to any school project and making community connections!
Saturday, April 5, 2008
Changes!
They say changes are good! ... but it sure doesn't feel right when you turn left when the tenancy is to turn right. I admit it: it's weird, I hate change but, I also look forward to it! I always try to keep a positive attitude and be optimistic, I know that change will always bring something good into my life and I also know that I am resilient, strong and capable of getting through anything. Sometimes (actually most of the time) my emotions, including the negative ones,are there as a guide but,in reality, I replace them with more positive ones. I also realize that the more quickly I accept or choose to change, the less likely the pain and hardship will be. I really get a kick out of challenging myself and empowering myself with questions and words. I think, the better I push myself, the better thoughts I am allowing myself to come up and I know will be connecting to something bigger. I make an all out attempt to live my inner-self, my soul, my spirit, my higher-self. And everyday, I try to surround myself with people who can help and who have an optimistic mind-set. This ensure me to create an environment the supports my change. I realize, I must take action & take command of my life. I must build a plan and take care of myself...so what am I waiting for? I must be my own knight in shining armor and join the realm of other patriots...Godspeed give m strength and lead me to my destiny.
Friday, March 28, 2008
Do the Dewey!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BgSlpPUEAbo
Meet me @ the Des Plaines Public Library on Saturday, April 26, 2008!
Don't forget your Library Card! x x o , mb
Meet me @ the Des Plaines Public Library on Saturday, April 26, 2008!
Don't forget your Library Card! x x o , mb
Saturday, March 15, 2008
Illinois Library Legistative Day
Believe You Can Make a Difference
By MaryBeth McWilliams, MacArthur Middle School
January 30, 2008
As the Library Media Center Teacher at MacArthur Middle School in Prospect Heights, I strive for collaboration, leadership, intellectual freedom, and technology. I truly believe I have a vision for making a difference in Illinois Public School Libraries. Every school day, I facilitate intellectual freedom and learning with the young adult students and professional teaching staff in my school community. Constantly, these seekers of global information come to me requesting accurate information. As the LMC Teacher, I must continually be aware of current issues. I must be unbiased and prepared to assess and evaluate information and then concisely express and communicate this information. I am dedicated to doing this in order to continue to nurture an information rich society.
This aspect of my position, as the LMC Teacher, is one that I truly relish and I appreciate those students and staff that seek information. Working in the field of education and specifically in the middle school library media center, I focus on open access to information. As an educator in the library field, I am seeking to communicate, collaborate and connect intellectual freedom for everyone. The better informed and aware I am on state and national issues, the more effective I will be on preparing and presenting information for students. Ultimately, my mission is for quality in public school libraries that facilitate an atmosphere where students and staff spend less time searching and more time learning. By attending the Illinois and National Library Legislative Days in 2007, I gained an insight in how I fit into the partnership for libraries and lifelong learning.
I attended the Illinois Library Day on Thursday, April 19, 2007 at the state capitol building in Springfield. This was an occasion for school and public librarians to demonstrate our concerns to the Illinois legislators on issues that are important to the Illinois library communities. Since both House and Senate were in session, I was able to personally meet with the legislators to discuss Library Advocacy at their Springfield offices. My very presence and conversations showed our serious concern for the future of Library Literacy and Intellectual Freedom. I also gave each legislator my business card and a “Palm Card” that summarized exactly which bills I support and which I oppose. As a result of these face-to-face visits, I truly believe that I have established a solid rapport with local legislators.
At noon, as a collective body, Illinois Librarians gathered and enthusiastically marched from the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum to the State Capital. I proudly displayed my “I [heart] Libraries!” umbrella as I walked. The procession concluded with an energetic rally with impassioned speeches given by the Illinois Library Association and other supporters outside the Governor's and Secretary of State's office windows.
On May 1 and 2, 2007, I attended a two-day event along with librarians and library trustees who care about libraries and intellectual freedom. I participated in advocacy and training sessions to tell “our story” of student education in Prospect Heights and the northwest suburbs of Chicago. I also interacted with Capitol Hill insiders and visited congressional member offices to express a strong, visible message to them and to ask Congress to pass legislation that supports libraries. My mission was to remind the law makers of the significant contributions libraries make in our public schools and communities.
The first day was filled with programming and networking with librarians and trustees from all over the country. There were 424 participants from 47 states. We were informed of legislative updates from the American Library Association's Washington office and advocacy tips from legislative consultants. During the afternoon break, I went over to the Library of Congress to update my library card and to do some “research.” To complete the evening, the Illinois Library Association hosted a dinner at the Capitol Hill Club. Michael Strautmanis from Illinois, Senator Barack Obama's Chief General Counsel, spoke about current and relevant affairs and the direction of a cautious and planned future.
The second day everyone was “on the hill” meeting with legislators or their aides in the House or Senate. With the North Suburban Library System, I had appointments at the offices of Mark Kirk, Melissa Bean, Dick Durbin, and Barack Obama. At each visit, I advocated for the students of MacArthur Middle School and public schools.
About the Author
MaryBeth McWilliams is the Library Media Teacher at MacArthur Middle School in Prospect Heights School District 23. Previously, she worked in Palatine School District 15 in the Library Resource Center program. McWilliams also serves on the NSLS Board of Directors and is a member of several professional organizations.
By MaryBeth McWilliams, MacArthur Middle School
January 30, 2008
As the Library Media Center Teacher at MacArthur Middle School in Prospect Heights, I strive for collaboration, leadership, intellectual freedom, and technology. I truly believe I have a vision for making a difference in Illinois Public School Libraries. Every school day, I facilitate intellectual freedom and learning with the young adult students and professional teaching staff in my school community. Constantly, these seekers of global information come to me requesting accurate information. As the LMC Teacher, I must continually be aware of current issues. I must be unbiased and prepared to assess and evaluate information and then concisely express and communicate this information. I am dedicated to doing this in order to continue to nurture an information rich society.
This aspect of my position, as the LMC Teacher, is one that I truly relish and I appreciate those students and staff that seek information. Working in the field of education and specifically in the middle school library media center, I focus on open access to information. As an educator in the library field, I am seeking to communicate, collaborate and connect intellectual freedom for everyone. The better informed and aware I am on state and national issues, the more effective I will be on preparing and presenting information for students. Ultimately, my mission is for quality in public school libraries that facilitate an atmosphere where students and staff spend less time searching and more time learning. By attending the Illinois and National Library Legislative Days in 2007, I gained an insight in how I fit into the partnership for libraries and lifelong learning.
I attended the Illinois Library Day on Thursday, April 19, 2007 at the state capitol building in Springfield. This was an occasion for school and public librarians to demonstrate our concerns to the Illinois legislators on issues that are important to the Illinois library communities. Since both House and Senate were in session, I was able to personally meet with the legislators to discuss Library Advocacy at their Springfield offices. My very presence and conversations showed our serious concern for the future of Library Literacy and Intellectual Freedom. I also gave each legislator my business card and a “Palm Card” that summarized exactly which bills I support and which I oppose. As a result of these face-to-face visits, I truly believe that I have established a solid rapport with local legislators.
At noon, as a collective body, Illinois Librarians gathered and enthusiastically marched from the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum to the State Capital. I proudly displayed my “I [heart] Libraries!” umbrella as I walked. The procession concluded with an energetic rally with impassioned speeches given by the Illinois Library Association and other supporters outside the Governor's and Secretary of State's office windows.
On May 1 and 2, 2007, I attended a two-day event along with librarians and library trustees who care about libraries and intellectual freedom. I participated in advocacy and training sessions to tell “our story” of student education in Prospect Heights and the northwest suburbs of Chicago. I also interacted with Capitol Hill insiders and visited congressional member offices to express a strong, visible message to them and to ask Congress to pass legislation that supports libraries. My mission was to remind the law makers of the significant contributions libraries make in our public schools and communities.
The first day was filled with programming and networking with librarians and trustees from all over the country. There were 424 participants from 47 states. We were informed of legislative updates from the American Library Association's Washington office and advocacy tips from legislative consultants. During the afternoon break, I went over to the Library of Congress to update my library card and to do some “research.” To complete the evening, the Illinois Library Association hosted a dinner at the Capitol Hill Club. Michael Strautmanis from Illinois, Senator Barack Obama's Chief General Counsel, spoke about current and relevant affairs and the direction of a cautious and planned future.
The second day everyone was “on the hill” meeting with legislators or their aides in the House or Senate. With the North Suburban Library System, I had appointments at the offices of Mark Kirk, Melissa Bean, Dick Durbin, and Barack Obama. At each visit, I advocated for the students of MacArthur Middle School and public schools.
About the Author
MaryBeth McWilliams is the Library Media Teacher at MacArthur Middle School in Prospect Heights School District 23. Previously, she worked in Palatine School District 15 in the Library Resource Center program. McWilliams also serves on the NSLS Board of Directors and is a member of several professional organizations.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
