Weedflower

I like how this book gave a new perspective on WWII by writing it from the perspective of a 12 year old Japanese-American. It was a side of the war that I hadn't heard before and definitely gave me a different view on the war and how our government treated Japanese-Americans who worked so hard. It was unfair to uproot those families that worked so hard to live in a country that went against everything it was supposed to stand for. Sumiko was so mature for her age and had to do and witness things that no 12 year old should ever have to know about. She worked harder than any child should at that age and had a big impact on the way her family operated. I liked how important family was to Sumiko and her family. This is a great book for children to read and by using Sumiko as her main character, the author has made it easier for children to be able to relate to Sumiko and easier for them to imagine how she might have felt while going through all that she and her family endured.

WeedFlower

Young and kind this child is

Gentle and fast her hands give

Carnations beauty she see inside

With every flower she gives life

Times change, and people are scared

People who often believe what they hear

Her family is take to a new place

Not one you would go to at a fast pace

There she must stay till war is at end

Lucky to be with her family and friends

The honor and trust her family must show

Yet all along it was never gone

She loves America

This is her home

but those who do not see

will soon know

Yes I am Japanese

Japanese-American to be correct

This is who i am

And this i will never forget!

Weedflower

Weedflower was a very touching book. I had always knew of what happened to the Japanese Americans living here in the U.S during WWII, but I never heard a first-person account of it.

Reading Weedflower made me realize some of the horrible things our government has done. How could we just up-root families from their homes and then try and make them work for us or join our army. I think what the government did was a horrible thing.

Weedflower was very touching because not only did it include what was happening to Japanese Americans but it also told about American-Indians who had been forced off of their land as well. I think that tying two different historical events in a novel is a wonderful thing.

I think this book would help children learn more about Japanese-Americans during WWII and give them a better understanding of what was happening here and not just what was happening in Japan.

Weedflower

Weedflower was a powerful novel that shed light on one of America's biggest controversies, the internment of many Japanese Americans. I appreciated Sumiko and her point of view throughout the novel. She showed her strength and determination as the story progressed and she was forced to grow up for her family. It was interesting to see her as a protective sister, but also as a vulnerable child. Her confusion and concern for her family showed her maturity in the situation and how she was forced to play the role of an adult in many ways.
There was such sweet beauty in the depiction of the carnations, yet such ugliness of the way people treated Sumiko. It was an interesting balance. I found this with Tak Tak as well. He was such a picture of innocence with his grasshoppers, but also Sumiko's protector at the same time. The relationship between them was my favorite in the book. They were determined to stick together and protect each other.
The novel left me a little disappointed as well. I wanted more of the story. At the end of the novel, I was hoping for a happy ending and more of a conclusion. I wanted to know what happened to her grandfather and uncle, how her cousins fared after the war, and where they all ended up.

Weedflower

Weedflower is one of the books which I can honestly say I can't wait to share with my students. It has such strong emotion for a children's literature book. I think it is very important for this peace of history to be known to children. As we discussed in class there are so many people who don't even know this even occurred in our history. There are many other stories that are set around World War II but I can't think of any that can connect with so many different groups of children. Stories on Anne Frank and the novel Night are too disturbing for children. Even the older aged children who read those stories and understand them, can not really connect with them. But Sumiko is written by Cynthia Kadohata in a way that is very easy to relate with. She is just a young girl but she, because of her struggles, stands out and has to fight against many different things. There are many categories that can interest a children into reading this story. The boys who love military stories could be interested in the war aspect of this novel. The children who move around and leave their friends because their parents make them will be able to understand how Sumiko feels to leave her home. Sumiko is an orphan and lives with other members of her family. She isn't invited to peoples houses, many children face prejudice today. This list goes on and on. Needless to say I really enjoyed this story.

Assignment 7.Cameron Kluttz

I really enjoyed reading the Weedflower. I feel this book has a lot of themes or topics you can use in the classroom. First and foremost, this would be a perfect start to a lesson on Pearl Harbor. As a teacher you can teach all details about the attack on Pearl Harbor, and also how so many people's lives changed after this day. The Weedflower and the main character, Sumiko, is a great way to easily explain Pearl Harbor because the character gives students someone to relate to. Sumiko and her family endured a lot after the attack because everyone thought that she was an enemy just because she was Japanese. Another great topic to discuss with your classroom would be about friendship with others even if they are not exactly like you. All children need to understand that everyone can become best friends even if they have different background or ethnicity. A perfect example of this topic is the friendship of Sumiko and Frank, the Mohave Indian boy. They have a connection because of Sumiko living on the Indian reservation and the flowers; which ended up being a big theme throughout the book. Last but not least, I would discuss with my classroom about how to treat others. I would want each student to understand what Sumiko and her family had to endure even though they did nothing wrong. This book has a lot of great topics and themes to teach to children and I would for sure use this award-winning text in my classroom.

Weedflower

I learned so much about World War II from reading Weedflower. I knew that Japanese were placed in internment camps, but that was the extent of my knowledge on the subject. This book opened my eyes to the situation and made me feel as if I was living through it myself.
I felt Sumiko's pain and embarrassment when she was shunned at the birthday party. I also felt her pride in not wanting to let her family know what had happened. I admired her ability to be positive in a difficult situation. I could see and smell her flowers; the ones she worked so hard to grow in a place they shouldn't have been. I felt the connection between Sumiko and her little brother. I can see the friendship growing between Sumiko and Frank. I dreamed her dreams; to get out of this place and have her own flower shop. As I was reading, I became Sumiko.
Cynthia Kadohata wrote this book to draw in the reader. She not only wrote the book to inform, but to show what happened from an insider's perspective. Normally, I don't like to read historical fiction, but Sumiko and her heartwarming story stole my heart. The only thing I didn't like about the book was that it ended too soon and left me with too many questions. What happened when they moved away from the camp? Was her aunt's job successful? Were they reunited with her uncle and grandfather? Did she ever see Frank again? Did she own a flower shop?

Weedflower

This book was a touching account of what life was like for Japanese children right after Pearl Harbor. I always have heard about what happened with Americans around that time but not what happened to innocent Japanese Americans. My favorite part in the book was when she was trying to grow the seeds in the desert and they wouldnt grow until she went and worked hard on the soil until they were nurtured enough to grow. When they finally grew they were the color of the rainbow and it made her proud of something that she had accomplished. Its amazing that in the face of adversity she still found something that could make her happy and proud of herself

Weedflower and The Bracelet

Weedflower and The Bracelet were both good historical fictions books. They portrayed the stories of Japanese-American girls placed in American concentration camps. Sumiko was teased at school and finally made a real friend at the camp. The Bracelet's main character is Emi, and she had a best friend, whom gave her a bracelet as a going away gift. I felt a strong connection with both characters.
Like Sumiko, I was teased in school for being different. Sumiko was teased for her race, and I was teased because my family was poor. I grew up with many good friends in my neighborhood, but I did not know what a good friend really was until I met Ginni. If the Japanese would not have bombed Pearl Harbor, Sumiko would not have met an Indian boy named Frank, and if Katrina would not have hit, I would not have met Ginni. We both had to say goodbye to our friends in the end.
Emi reminded me of my friend, Sahara. She lived in my neighborhood, and we were really good friends. One day September 11th happened and idiots started to harass Sahara and her family. Sahara's family constantly had to pick trash off their lawn. Even though Sahara did not move to a concentration camp, her parents would not let her out play. They were afraid someone would try to hurt her. She was a prisoner in her own home. Eventually, her family could not take the abuse anymore and sold their house.
I never really understood what the Japanese-Americans' went through until now. I grew up knowing that the United States had concentration camps for the Japanese-Americans, but I did not care. They were not slaughtered like the Jews. I went through Katrina, so I know what type of mental toll it takes to be forced to leave everything behind. At least people were nice to the evacuees; Japanese-Americans faced a ton of racism.

Weedflower

The Party

Her blue dress rustled as she stepped onto the street.

She breathed deeply of the scent from her beautiful bunch of peach stock.

The maid looked surprised to see Sumiko but took her present and flowers.

Something kind of rolled across the room,

Silence.

Marsha’s mother was staring right at Sumiko.

She put out her hand. “I’m Marsha’s mother,” she said.

Sumiko smiled with relief.

She gushed, “Your house is beautiful!”

Marsha’s mother put her arm around Sumiko and moved her onto the front porch.

She’d scarcely had a chance to see the house.

Her eyes were kind.

She smiled so warmly,

Sumiko couldn’t help smiling even harder than she already was.

“Marsha didn’t tell me you were in her class.”

“It’s not me, dear, but my husband…”

“I just want you to understand that if it were up to me…”

And Sumiko realized that she was being uninvited.

She understood,

Sumiko stood on the porch with the cake.

The ballerina,

The music,

The door.

She was Humiliated Sumiko.

This is what it felt like to be lonely.

Weedflower

Weedflower really opened my eyes to what happened in the United States during WWII. I do not remember learning about this during my history classes. I think we might have talked about it once but it was "The U.S. put Japanese Americans in camps." And that was all that was said. I thought this book was an amazing story of relationships. There were so many different relationships between all of the characters. I loved that Sumiko was able to find a friend in the most unlikely place. I found this book to be sad because I couldn't do anything to help Sumiko. I enjoyed this book and I was glad we read The Bracelet before reading Weedflower.

Weedflower

Weed flower shows what the people of Japan went through during World War II. I was very unaware of what the Japanese Americans went through or how they were treated until I read this book. Weed flower is a wonderful work of historical fiction. If I was teaching a class of fourth graders or older then this would definitely be a great book to teach.

WeedFlower

I think the book Weedflower accurately shows what Japanese Americans went through around the time of world war II. I was very unaware of Japanese American culture and how they were treated in the past. I think this book would be a wonderful story to share with a 4th or 5th grade classroom. It is a great work of historical fiction. The usage of flowers and gardens makes the story creative and fun. Sumiko uses these things for survival and hope. She then meets a boy name Mohave and they become great friends. I think that Sumiko is a great character for the children to connect with and learn about. This would be a wonderful book for a history lesson as well as teaching diversity. It would be wonderful for the children to learn about racism and different cultures.

Weedflower Response

The book Weedflower portrays Japanese Americans around the time of World War II in an accurate way. Many children, as well as adults, are unaware of how Japanese Americans were treated during this time. The book is a great work of historical fiction to be used in the classroom. Sumiko makes the most of her situations in life and finds outlets through flowers and a garden. The book focuses on her garden a lot when she is at the Japanese internment camp. Just like Sumiko’s flowers, she finds a hope in survival. She meets a Mohave boy and they develop a unique friendship. Weedflower is a great story to use as a read aloud in an upper elementary grades classroom. Fifth graders for example would love this book and feel a strong connection with Sumiko.

My favorite quote from Weedflower said by Sumiko’s cousin, Bull:

"In the world of change, you accept the changes that can't be helped. You suffer so you can learn, and you learn so you can be a better person in your next life."

Sumiko

I am Japanese and American
I wonder why the hakujin don't like me
i hear the beatings
I see the pain
I want to be treated equal
I am Nikkei

I pretend i own a flower shop
I feel slighted in life
I touch the dry dirt
I worry I won't see Jiichan or Uncle again
I cry when I think about my cousins going to war
I am Nikkei

I understand why hakujin hate Japanese from Japan
I say "don't worry" to Tak-Tak
I dream of owning a flower shop
I try to make the best of life in Poston
I hope one day the hakujin will accept me
I am Nikkei

Weedflower Response Taryn Gill

The main focus for this book for me would have to revolve around the garden and flowers she takes care of. I think that this is a great outlet for any person to have at least one thing that they can do to relieve themselves from the day or from their life in general. At such a young age she has already figured out what she wants from the flowers and out of life. People that are already grown up still do not have that figured out. I respect that she can use that in her life. In such a difficult time in her life she uses the garden and flowers to help her get through her struggle. I feel like without the flowers she would have a completely different outlook on her life and own struggles.

Differently the same.

The book Weedflower was quite an interesting book, what makes it even more interesting is that even though the characters are fake, the events are real. How we were able to treat people, people that have hearts thoughts and emotions just like ours the way we treated the Japanese Americans. I assume that when all these events were going on nobody realized how similar to the German Nazis we were. We had no real justification to be locking these people up and taking away their freedom, makes you think how did this part of our history get so masked?

雑草の花

Is there a difference between a flower that grows inside and one that grows outside? Perhaps, but only in aesthetics. This difference in mere appearance has us separating one from another--segregating the 'beauty' from the 'not-quite-so'. But a flower grown in the greenhouse has never felt the wind blow across its petals, the pure sun shine upon its face, or the sense of purpose in being a part of an ecosystem. No, the beautiful flowers grown inside share none of these experiences. So, what makes them beautiful?

This book raised many questions about human behavior and how we treat things as well as one another. Terrible atrocities have occurred on American soil, committed by American citizens, and I believe the author does an outstanding job of bringing one such event to light. I thought that the author's decision to include a brief history of the Japanese and Native American soldiers' who fought for our (and their) country was very appropriate and important. May we always remember what this looks like so that we never let it happen again.

'Weedflower' has a lot of classroom potential due to the myriad of subjects that it presents. 'The Bracelet' is a good match, as would be 'The Bicycle Man' by Allen Say.

雑草の花 is "weedflower" in Japanese. Not really important, but I speak the language so I thought I'd throw it in there :)

Response to Weedflower

Weedflower made me think of how people have to overcome stereotypes. I can't even begin to imagine what people like Sumiko had to go through during World War II. I hadn't ever really thought about all of the troubles that Japanese Americans went through during this time. I could see myself in Sumiko's shoes as just trying to live out a normal life as a child. This book is great to use when teaching kids about the war. I myself had forgotten until I read the book that Japanese Americans were put in concentration camps. This is a book that children can really get interested in. I think The Bracelet would be great to use right before reading this book. I'm just glad that we read this book in class because it just reminded me how careful we need to be to not make quick judgements about other people. Also, it is a great way to teach kids about friendship. She became great friends with a young Mohave boy even though many people might not have thought such a friendship to be possible. I really enjoyed getting a better understanding of what being a Japanese-American was like during the war.

censorship

I think Harry Potter being banned from schools is a touchy subject and one that doesn’t have a fair resolution. There are several reasons I can understand why parents wouldn’t want their kids reading these books but they are such popular books that I believe every child should be exposed to just because they are so well known. I think they should be available in the classroom for more than just D.E.A.R. time. Teachers should be able to use this book in their curriculum, not to teach witchcraft but to teach good literature. These are books that spark children’s imaginations and could even get kids who hate to read hooked on the entire series. They are books that should be used to help kids learn to enjoy reading. However, teachers should make it clear and have a discussion with the class that witchcraft is not real and that the things that happen in the books cannot happen in real life. I would definitely use these books as part of my instruction because I believe these are books every kid should have exposure to because of how popular they are. It would be unfair for a kid not to get to experience Harry Potter.

No Censors

I can see where people would get mad, its a book on witch craft, and it goes outside the norm of what people want in their everyday life. Yet, you must think, what about the people who like their imagination, why do they have to be quiet. Censorship is illegal, and our constitution says we have the freedom of speech. Harry Potter is a form of speech that should not be interpreted as a mind washing tactic. The article even says it feels HP was written in fun and not for devilish purposes. people just want to find an outlet to blame on why their kids think differently. I would definitely use it in my classroom, sure some parents would be mad, but it explores a new type of writing, it shows a new form of lifestyle that many kids only get to dream about.

Censorship and Harry Potter

While growing up as a kid these books were banned from my house and I was not allowed to check them out at the library. This is the first book that I have read about Harry Potter. I just recently watched the movies about a year ago. I do not see what all the fuss was/is about.



I can understand where some people might consider this witchcraft and sorcery but how is this going to make children into witch's? Like the article said "they won't turn children into the devils disciples."



From reading this book now, as an adult, I wish I would have been able to read them as a child. I think they spark an imagination and help children want to read. Children should be allowed to read a variety of things and not just things that adults seem fit. I am sure that there are some cases where children do things from books because they read them but like the article says that if these books are really hurting our society than that means criminals read these books and got their ideas from banned books. There is no connection to this at all and I think it is pretty ridiculous that some people can make these claims.



Our country is trying to ban books because of their content but they are not trying to get kids to stop watching violent T.V shows or movies. Kids and young adults get more from the T.V/movies than they do books these days because they simply just do not read.



I disagree with the banning of the Potter series. I think these books are a great way to get kids interested in reading in a time where most hardly ever pick up a book unless their told. I would use this in my classroom and I would handle any problems that arose as they came. I would first ask parents how they feel about their kids reading it and I would respect their opinions/reasons and make sure their children did not read them. If I had kids that could not read them I would not assign it to the class or do activities with them because I would not want to leave anyone out. I think it would be just best to have it on the class book shelf for kids to take home or read for Accelerated reader and other programs. I think the benefits it would have for a lot of kids would be the imagination that came along with it.

Censorship

Books are an expression for the writters. They are what they feel and want to convey to the world. JK Rowling is an excellent example of a writer who had the courage to put out many books that are daring and amazing. Banning this book would be an injustice to students because it allows their creative talents to flow and develop. Censorship of any book is an injustice to students because allowing them to read things that are out of the ordinary and different benefit the way they learn. Harry Potter is based in a fantasy world that allows the mind to wander and creates a sanctuary for some children to come to when they are reading the book. I firmly belive that censorship is a disadvantage because it restricts the view points of authors.

To ban or not to ban....

Harry Potter is an excellent example of a high fantasy genre. It is important to expose children to many different types of fiction and allow them to develop their own opinions of the story. I feel like as long as you do not try to expose them to material that is either too serious or mature for their age or grade level there is no reason that it should be restricted.

J.K. Rowling's fantastical story is very well written. It has many aspects that could be used for instructional purposes, but also is a good pick for a reading circle. This is a story that is going to keep the attention of the children, and maybe get some of the struggling readers more interested in reading.

Some of the reasons Harry Potter was banned was because some themes of the story go against peoples religious beliefs. They didn't want tales of witchcraft and dark magic being told to their children. Their fear is that this will create the potential for their children to stray away from the beliefs they have been taught to follow. While I can understand that parents want to protect their children from ideas that they consider to be bad, I do not think that reading a book like Harry Potter is really all that bad. Many other children's stories include ideas similar to those in Harry Potter, so why is Harry Potter different from these other stories? My belief is that this story gained such popularity because of it's awesomeness and that it was this near instant popularity that caused the uproar. It needs to be realized that this popularity was because of Rowling's writing ability and the adventure. So many students would be able to dive into this story. So I believe that Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's stone, and all of the other Harry Potter stories, should be allowed in the classroom, as long as the children are old enough to appreciate the story and occational dark themes.

Asignment 6.Cameron Kluttz

I do not think the Harry Potter books should be banned from schools. Although these books have been talked about being banned, we all have to remember that all of these books have broken numerous records of books sold for both children and adults.
In many book protests or bannings, people state that these books corrupt not only the souls of children but also the American society, I find that statement ridiculous. If these books corrupted children or even adults who read these books then there would be a trend in the people reading the books and the corruption occurring.
I would personally use these books in a middle school classroom because not only does it show imagination, it also shows creativity in what authors can write. Although these books have known to be Anti-Christ and “witch” related, we have to remember that everything that we read or even do will somehow be controversial to some people. This is a perfect example of freedom of speech, J.K. Rowling wrote an amazing book that hit high charts but people still disagree with her writings. I would be happy to use such a wonderful book and great author in my classroom. Everyone I know falls in love with these books from the first page of the very first book. Harry Potter books have been a great series from young children and adults to become attached too. There have been no trends in corruption from these book, only creativity. I really enjoyed reading these books and would be more than happy to bring them to my classroom.

Assignment.6 Chelsea Bussey

The Harry Potter is a fictional character in a fantasy series written by J.K. Rowling. He parents were killed by an evil wizard when he was one. At first he did not know he was a wizard and lives with his mean relatives. Around his 11th birthday, Harry leaves and attends Howarts School of Magic and Wizardry. He makes many friends including Hermione and Ron and a few enemies. Harry also learns how Lord Voldemort killed his parents and tried to kill him and also left him with a lighting bolt scar on his forehead. Voldemort tries to steal the Philosopher's stone, bu Harry saves the day.

I agree that Harry Pottery should be read in school. I would definitely have it as part of my instruction because it is a very well written fantasy series, and children love it. Having Harry Potter in my class would represent any usual problem. Someone always wants to start a problem, like the guy who tried to sue the government over saying "under God" in the pledge of allegiance. Having the children interested in reading is just one of the many pluses with the book.

Censorship can be a good thing, especially in a subject is too mature, but it usually is not. Many people try to get things banned for attention or fanatical reasons. Why would anyone want to stop a child from reading something they could understand ad makes them happy?

censorship

I honestly do not think that Harry Potter should be a concern in schools. It is simply a book! Seriously I think children watch more harmful things on TV through commercial, than they do in fantasy books. Looking at how much people are upset about these books, they should simply ask a teacher for an alternative assignment, instead of just getting out of hand and trying to cause a problem. Also public schools are publics schools and the information taught is always going to be in some way controversial. Just like the article talked about, this is the United States and we have the freedom of speech. Whether or not the people like it, they cannot stop topics or books such as Harry Potter" from coming out. If you do not want your children exposed to this kind of information, then go to a christian or private school, is that not why they have them. Like I said before parents should be more worried about what their kids will learn from other outside influences, than how they are going to take a young boy who can have magic powers and helps to save his world from the bad.

On the other hand, I think that parents are so blind about what their children are exposed to rather than focusing on how much good books like "Harry Potter" have brought to the literature aspect of education. Harry Potter is one of many books that have rekindled the spirit and motivation in children to read. Harry Potter is one of the best selling books and has been read by both children and adults. It can be used in the classroom to get children who do not like books about history or animals to become included in the atmosphere of the other students around them. What many parents do not consider is there are many different kinds of families, lifestyles, and personalities where not everyone is going to agree on the same books. For instance while some may take "Harry Potter" as controversial, others may take another book read in class as controversial who did not find "Harry Potter" controversial. Think about it many books are first considered controversial and then in later years are considered phenomenal. A perfect example of this is Maurice Sendak's book "Where The Wild Things Are," as well as "In The Night Kitchen," both these were almost placed on the banned list. However in todays society these books are considered great parts of literature education. All I have to says is censorship has a time and place and publics school are not always the place where that is considered.

Censorship

I remember hearing about the possibilty of Harry Potter being banned when I first read the book. I couldn't really see what they thought was so bad about it. To me, it seemed like any other fantasy book. It wasn't trying to convince me that "magic" was real or that I should believe I'm a witch. It was just a purely fictional book that allowed me to enjoy reading.
I don't think it should be banned because of it's content. People can find something to criticize about every book. The idea of religion comes up with Harry Potter because of the magic, but then the book The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe was also considered to be banned and it is a religious allegory. They both explore the idea of magic and witches, yet some people feel that Harry Potter is worse? I don't see how they could put those in separate categories.
If I were teaching a group of 4th, 5th or even 6th graders, I would use this book. It is an exceptional example of high fantasy. It allows students to get out of their daily routine and travel to a magical place where all kinds of interesting things happen. As I read it, I enjoyed being able to escape to Hogwarts. Harry Potter is one of those books that draws students in from the very beginning. From the very first page, they can't put it down! This is the kind of book that needs to be put in the hands of a kid who hates to read novels. It might seem like an extremely long book at first, but they'll get so sucked in and read it in no time! Then, they'll feel great about themselves and be willing to read another long book.
I can see where some parents might have issues with the book. There are some parts that are "scary" and might be too mature for some students. I read this book in 5th grade and occasionally I had nightmares about Voldemort or I would be reading it late at night and get scared in my bedroom. Other than that, I think parents should view this book as strictly what it is, high fantasy.
Overall, I love the Harry Potter books. I get really defensive if someone says "I hate those books, they're advocating the devil," especially if the person hasn't even read the book. I don't believe J.K. Rowling was trying to make anyone turn to witchcraft with her writing. I don't see anything wrong with the books and really enjoy them for what they are, fiction.

Potter and Censorship

Some great books have been banned or challenged in the past; books that have shaped the field of literature. Slaughter-house 5, 1984, A Farewell to Arms, and many more have all bothered enough people to push for a ban on these books. A ban that would prevent anyone from reading what these books have to say. As the author of the article suggests, these is blatant fascism. Censorship should be a person-to-person, or parent-to-parent, decision.

While one parent may be afraid that their child may try and cast magical spells or fly on a broomstick, I am confident that (unfortunately) that is simply not possible. Therefore, while they choose to hand their child a boring book that ultimately drives them away from literature, I will be purchasing the boxed set for mine. Any reading is usually good reading. I read comic books a lot when I was a child. Now I still do, but I also read big books with no pictures at all (gasp)!

Censorship has its place, but the ultimate decision should lie with licensed professionals and not religious-whackos or paranoid parents. A book should never be banned, but rather suggested for an older audience.

The Harry Potter series should be available in all classrooms. I'm not sure that I would use it in my classroom, but I wouldn't be against it. Some children may not be interested in realistic literature. A lot of kids aren't. Harry Potter is excellent fantasy and appeals (obviously) to a large group of people. Perhaps the child struggling or disinterested in reading would be a great match for this series. It is a poor decision to not include this or any other book that could potentially gain a lifetime reader.

Censorship

I think this book should be available in the classroom as long as it appropriate for the age range. I would not expect this book to be in a 1st grade classroom. I remember when the Harry Potter books first came out, my parents didn't want me to read them. I was so upset because all of my friends were reading them. I found the Harry Potter book we read to be very well written. I think it is a wonderful book for students because it's a little challenging and requires them to use their imagination(which I think very few children use anymore) in order for them to visualize what is going on in the book. I would definitely use this book as part of my instruction because it is very well written and there are so many lessons you can create from the book. There would probably be a few problems with parents who don't want their children reading it but there are always those few parents that criticize everything. The benefits would be that this book causes the students to think and that it could help some students get hooked on reading. Over the summer at the day camp I worked at we had DEAR (Drop Everything And Read) time for 30 minutes everyday, there was one boy who hated it but once he started reading the Harry Potter series he started to look forward to DEAR time. I think as long as the benefits outweigh the problems then it is a good choice.

Kayla Coleman, Assignment 4

I do not believe that Harry Potter should be banned from the classroom. As long as children are reading and understanding what they are reading shouldn't matter. The Harry Potter series is doing nothing but encouraging children to continue to read because they can't wait to get to the next book in the series. The important thing as a teacher is for your students to be reading and understanding and if Harry Potter does that then I see no problem with it. I can understand where parents could have a problem with the "witch and wizard" theme, but as far as im concerned most parents encourage and want their children reading. "If the Potter books had included racist or anti-Catholic language, many of Potter's most ardent defenders would be switching sides." I believe that this statement is very true, but I do not see where the Harry Potter books could possibly offend anyone.

"Like the majority of people, I believe the Potter books are written in broad-stroke farce/fun. They won't turn children into the devil's disciples but will go a long way toward turning them into rabid readers. If we wrote textbooks like this, students would be volunteering for homework." This is so true, Harry Potter books were written were a fun and entertaining read, not to harm anyone, but if textbooks were written like Harry Potter then children would actually enjoy learning.

"Furthermore, if we're going to ban "witch" books, the first to go would be, sadly, the Christian allegory The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C. S. Lewis." There is nothing wrong with witch books, they teach children a sense of imagination and allow them to imagine different worlds and people.

I would use Harry Potter in my classroom to teach a fantasy lesson and I would have them imagine what it is like to actually be Harry Potter and I would have them write their own story putting their self in Harry's shoes.

Assignment 6....Megan Cotterman

The Harry Potter books are both thought provoking and intriguing. When I read the series I could not put the books down to save my life. If there are children in a classroom who have a love for fantasy and adventure than the Harry Potter books would be great to use in the classroom. These books could be used in the classroom to bring out students creative sides and stray away from the boring text books that are considered safe. I would use these books in my classroom because of the fact that children love them and it would be a good learning experience for students to read something assigned in the classroom that they would read outside the classroom as well. They could be more motivated to do the assigned reading. I would first send a note home with the students to allow the parents to give permission to read the book just because of the hype over "anti-christ" controversy. I would not want to step on any parents toes. As for the controversy of censorship in books I believe that the first amendment allows freedom of speech and freedom of press. Authors should have the right to write what they want in a story and if someone doesnt like it...dont read it. What harm can really come from reading Harry Potter? In the article the author made a good point when he said: of all the underage criminals in the United States how many of them really became criminals because of a childrens book they read? Most juniville criminals can not even read or would have much trouble simply reading Harry Potter. People who are the extreme conservatives and spend time tearing down the Harry Potter books should really focus on what is really tearing down our youth today. Violence in school, family life, drugs and alcohol; those are the things that people should be worrying about, not a little boy who rides a broom stick and yells out spells in latin.

Censorship

I remember when Harry Potter had just been published. After everyone was starting to get into the book, parents starting getting upset because of what was in the books. Only a couple of my friends were reading Harry Potter the rest of my friends really did not read the book. I don't think there is anything wrong with the Harry Potter, but you do have to tell children the books are fiction and are not real. A few years ago my little cousin wanted to start reading Harry Potter after watching the movie; my aunt was cautious because she had asked her once before if Hogwarts was a real place. Many kids think the unbelievable is real, but you just have to explain to them that it's fiction and it's just a story. I remember as a child I thought Rainbow Brite and Care Bears were real, so Harry Potter would be along the same lines. I have not actually read all the books, but from what I have read they are fun, interesting, and well written books. I would love for my students to pick up a love of books through these books. But you do have to be careful of what parents think; even if you think it's alright and agree with the books, their parents may have a different view.

Censorship

I don't believe that Harry Potter should be taken out of the classroom. I know that many kids enjoy reading the series and this gets them hooked on reading. I agreed with the author when he said that he is all for parents involvement in what their children read. However, he is not for them getting involved in what other children read. I believe every parent has the right to choose to not let their child read a book because they find it offensive. However, they should not keep other children from being able to read the book if their parents are fine with it. We could all come up with some complaint about almost any book. If children enjoy reading books like Harry Potter then we should not stop them. I do think though some books should be set aside for only certain grades. Some books are not age appropriate for the younger grades. But, they should not be totally banned from being in the schools. I would use this book in my classroom if I had one of the older grades to teach my students about fantasy books. If a parent had a problem with the book then their child could read another fantasy book that the parent approved of them reading.

Assignment.6 Chelsea Bussey

My 95 Ford Taurus car caught on fire after class yesterday. My mom and son were in the car when this happened. They are fine, but the car's entire under the hood part has melted. I am having a very hard time trying to write this.

Nicolette Lovell, Assignment.4

I remember when my fourth grade teacher handed me Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, she knew how much I adored reading and thought that I would enjoy the story. Little did Miss Long know that she would be the reason for an addiction to Harry, Ron, Hermione, and the entire wizarding world that I am still happily afflicted with. I devoured each book multiple times and found that their lessons on morality and the reality of good and evil to be extremely valuable; for this reason I agree with the assertion that Rowling's enchanting books should not be banned from the classroom. Any book that attracts children and encourages them to read rather that play a video game or watch television should be treasured, not questioned and despised.

I would certainly use Harry in my classroom. The wonderful literature hidden inside of Rowling's books is too important and valuable for students to pass up. Young readers would be able to join Harry and his friends on all of their journeys and learn and grow as the main characters do. I also think that these books would be wonderful to get wary readers excited about literature. The subject matter and exciting plot of Rowling's stories would be excellent encouragement for students who don't enjoy reading.

I believe censorship is an important aspect of teaching and should be constantly observed. However, censorship has a tendency to be biased and unreasonable as in the case with the dispute over Harry Potter. If the subject matter is too steep or inappropriate for a certain age group, then a book should certainly be withheld. But if children can understand and learn from literature that excites them and makes them want to read, then why would we ever deny students that privilege?

Taryn Gill, Assignment 4

I believe that with the consent on the parents you can read Harry Potter. Religion in school is a very touchy subject and it hits close with a lot of families. If I did not believe in witches or devilish being then I would not want my child to be exposed to this. As soon as one book passes the line of religion in school then there would be no stopping it. I am firm believer in not having religion in public school and if a parent would want religion to be taught they should send their child to a religious school. I love the book Harry Potter and it is a great fantasy book but should really only be read on the child's own time. I would not use the book in my class, there are several other good fantasy books that would be accepted by all and not as a big as a problem as Harry Potter would be. I would find another book that is wrote like Harry Potter and has similar fantasy plot.

Harry's Censor

I believe Harry Potter should be allowed in the classroom. I actually believe it should be in every classroom, available to those students who wish to read it. This series is very addicting and encourages kids to read. Why should be deny students the right to read? If a parent does not want their child to read this series then they should be the one to take charge and remove the book from their child’s hands and inform the teacher of their wishes. I completely agree with the author of the article, a child’s parents should have say in what their kid reads but they do not have the right to censor everyone else.
If I was teaching a grade where Harry Potter would be okay to read I would definitely use it in my instruction. It is not a book I would teach to a second grader but for older grades I think it is perfect. It teaches kids to enjoy reading and that not all books are boring. This is a series the kids are not going to want to put down and I think that is a wonderful thing. It also teaches good vs. evil. Throughout the series Harry battles evil and in the end Harry trumps all evil and good wins. Is that not something all parents want their children to believe: good will always trump evil? Isn’t that what religious leaders want us to think? The only problems I could think of arising would possibly be a parent thinking the book presents material which is a little mature for their child which is a completely avid argument. It does have some issues which may not be appropriate for a younger child. I could see a religious fanatic freaking out over it because their preacher or the pope tells them their child shouldn’t be reading it because of magic.
If a problem arose in my classroom where the parent did not want their child reading the book, if we were reading the book as a class I would send the child out of the room while we read and have them read something else. I do feel this would be an undeserved punishment to the child but why should the rest of the class suffer because of one set of parents. If there was a clear majority or even close to half of parents who did not want the book read, I would have to give up and move on to a different book. I could not argue with that many parents and I think the year would go much smoother if I just gave in. But for those kids whose parent’s don’t mind I would try and get each kid a copy of the book so they could read it on their own.
There is nothing wrong with Harry Potter and it should be available for kids to read if they chose so. It opens up their minds to reading and it engages their imagination. It teaches us new vocabulary (muggles) and shows us that there is good in everyone, even those who don’t appear to have it (Snape). If a parent does not want their child to read the book, it is their responsibility (not the teacher, principle, or Liberians) to keep the book from their child. Besides the worst thing that could happen to a child who reads the book is they become addicted to reading and isn’t that something we want anyways?

Censorship

I agree with the author that Harry Potter is a book that should be used to help children become avid readers. Many books over the years have been criticized an judged, but who has the right to ban a book? A written work is an expression of an author targeted at a specific age range. When a book, like Gone With The Wind, is written, it isn't intended for an elementary audience. That shouldn't mean it is a banned book. As teachers and parents, we have to protect future generations from literature that could be deemed inappropriate, but I think that boils down more to an age range.
With Harry Potter in particular I think this book was judged rather harshly. It deals with magic and sorcery, but not devils work. Society took this book to a whole different level when it dissected the novel. There were suddenly metaphors and scenarios that I just don't agree with. You can pick a part an story to make it inappropriate if that is what you choose to do. For example, The Ugly Ducking could be viewed as too negative in terms or self perception and Where the Wild Things Are could be viewed as too scary. There is a certain line where I think works of literature are turned into something they are not. We may protect children too much in this sense. I personally enjoy Harry Potter books and I think they are a great show of imagination and creativity.
No book can make everyone happy and someone will always look into a work too much.

Lauren Ashley, Assignment 4

I agree with the author that Harry Potter is not a threat to students in the classroom. I have heard about this ongoing argument for many years. Many parents and teachers in the community I grew up in were divided on the subject matter of Harry Potter. When it first came out, some of my peers were not allowed to read it, and they banned the book from being a high school curriculum in the language arts program at my school. I think that Harry Potter should be available in the classroom. I would use it as part of my instruction because I think it is a wonderful series and gets kids excited about reading. I have heard how hard it is to get children interested in reading and I believe Harry Potter is harmless and would be a great way to get children involved in reading.

I do understand many people have different view points on literature and religion. The whole theme of this book is centered around wizards and many people do not like that idea. They think it is a devil book and is a bad influence to young children. I remember hearing in the article that the author states "I'm an advocate for parent involvement in what is viewed and read by their children. Where I draw the line is imposing their own family's views on other peoples children." I strongly agree with this statement. Teachers, Parents, and Adult leaders should be very careful not to get involved with their views on the matter. I believe everyone should have an opinion but also that everyone can have the freedom to read what they want.

I think Harry Potter should be available to students. I also agree with the author, that if the community wanted to do away with wizard and witch books than why not analyze the Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe. There are so many different stories out there that deal with the same issues. Parents should have a watch on the material there children are reading, but schools should have a variety of books available for the children to read.

Kim MacDougall, Assignment.4

I agree with the author of this article that the Harry Potter series has done nothing but encourage children to continue reading. There have been many complaints based on the books focus on wizardry and magic. The author makes a good point in saying, “Furthermore, if we're going to ban "witch" books, the first to go would be, sadly, the Christian allegory The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C. S. Lewis. I think that people can find a problem with all types of books. What is important, is that children are interested and reading books.

The author addresses a few book choices for 3rd and 8th grade readers that were inappropriate. He deems them inappropriate because they are written for adult readers. The content is not appropriate for young readers and the choice of language is above the reading level for the selected grades.

I do not see a problem using Harry Potter for classroom instruction in an appropriate grade. Some problems that would arise in the classroom when reading Harry Potter would be issues with themes such as wizardry and magic. As I stated previously, people (primarily parents) will find problems with all types of books. I believe the benefits of reading Harry Potter in the classroom outweigh the problems. All magic and wizardry aside, Harry Potter engages readers of all ages and the themes presented in the book help to shape the reader.

A few quotes from the article that really stuck out to me were: “What they don't have is the right to impose their will on others outside the law.” and, “I'm an advocate for parent involvement in what is viewed and read by their children.” When handling issues of censorship in the classroom, teachers need to be respectful of the wishes or parents and students. If a particular parent or student has a problem with a book, there should be an alternate assignment provided. Rather than spending time arguing over the personal opinions of censorship, it would be easier to create an assignment that teaches the same themes and ideas for the selected student. It is important to talk to children about censorship and why certain books are banned. When children have an educated knowledge about censorship they can begin to form their own opinions on books.

Censorship and the ridiculousness that ensues

I have a strong feeling about the way our school systems try to censor books. I cannot understand how they can make such a huge ordeal over one part of a book that they cannot agree with. It truly grates at my nerves when I read or hear parents complain about all the terrible things their children are forced to read. I cannot help but ask, "Are you this strict about what they are exposed to on television?" Beyond all my frustrations with 'over protective' parents. Harry Potter was my hook to the world of books when I was in third or forth grade. I despised all the books we were assigned in class and rarely read all the assignments that were required. It was not until my tutor introduced me to Harry Potter that I realized the incredible world that books can create. I do not know what my reading career would have been like if some ridiculous religious maniacs had pushed for Harry Potter to be ban. But I am thankful that the decision makers on censorship have level heads, for the most part.

I believe that like the article said that some books should be banned for certain ages for obvious inappropriateness within those books. But still those books that are inappropriate for young children are fabulous for young adults. It is the right of a parent to decide what is appropriate for their children but I feel that also it is the right of a teacher to decide what he/she feels is appropriate for their students. I strongly believe that teachers have been trained and are capable to make the best choices on book assignments for their students. So while I believe that banning a book seems silly, it is the responsibility of teachers to censor through the books they use in their classroom. In that same regard it is the responsibility of a parent to censor what their child reads outside of the classroom. Hopefully then everyone could be happy...but doubtful.

Harry and the Censors

We are fortunate to have the freedom to read and review Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone and to use this book in considering the issue of censorship. In addition, please read the following article by Jim Trelease:
http://www.trelease-on-reading.com/censor_entry.html

Do you agree/disagree that the book should be available in the classroom?

Would you use it as part of your instruction? Why or why not? What problems would it present? What benefits would it offer?

Write and post a detailed reflection about the book and the issue of censorship. Be sure to include the information your read from the web sites to support your reflection; think about how you might handle a censorship question raised in your classroom.

Additional information about banned books can be found at

http://www.ala.org/ala/issuesadvocacy/banned/index.cfm.

Please label your post with your name and Assignment.6, separated by a comma. Your post is due by 8:00 pm on Friday, October 23. You need to comment on at least two of your classmates' posts by 8:00 pm, Sunday, October 25.

George Washington

George
Ambitious, Brave, Loyal, Honest
Husband of Martha Custis
Lover of his country, family, and farm
Who feels strong, accomplished, loved
Who finds happiness in success.
Who needs support
Who gives his entire life to his country
Who fears defeat, resistance, and loss
Who would like to see his country grow and develop
Who enjoys freedom
Who likes to wear wigs when out in public
Resident of Virginia
Washington

Assignment 5...Megan Cotterman

Laura
Curious, Petite, Driven
Sister: Mary, Father: Charles, Mother: Caroline, Husband: Almanzo
Lover of books, adventures and teaching
Who feels compassion, joy, and determination
Who finds happiness in her family, her father playing his fiddle, and helping children
Who needs inspiration to write books
Who gives her time children who are blind and needy
Who fears the Indians when she was little, losing her family when she is older
Who would like to see her books being read by her great great grandchildren
Who enjoys the memories of playing in the prarie with her sister
Who likes to wear pig tails when she was younger
Who was a resident of Walnut Grove Minnesota
Who wrote numerous books, five of which were Newbery Winners
Ingles Wilder

Ronald
Conservative, actor, politician, and head-strong.
Husband of Nancy Davis.
Who loved Hollywood, politics, and family.
Who felt unchanged, loved, and accomplished.
Who needed change, the support of his wife, and the American people.
Who gave his heart, his mind, and his soul.
Who feared middle eastern affairs, communism, and Alzheimer's.
Who shared his idea of "Reaganomics".
Who was the fortieth president.
Who was a resident of California.
Reagan

Assignment.5 Chelsea Bussey

Celia

Determined, happy, creative, and adventurous

Wife of Pedro Knight

Lover of music, dancing, and her family

Who feels joyful, strong, and energetic

Who finds happiness in music

Who needs to show the world how to salsa

Who gives 100% in her quest to become a singer

Who fears she has to leave her family, friends, and Cuba forever because of the revolution

Who would like to see everyone smile

Who enjoys sugar

Who likes to wear colorful costumes when performing

Resident of Cuba and then New York City in the United States

Cruz

(Celia Cruz was born on 1924 in Havana, Cuba to a poor, but loving family. She had 13 brothers, sisters, and cousins living with her. A teacher told her she needed to become a singer. Celia invented salsa dancing and even had her own band. She loved to sing and dance. She would shout, "Sugar!" at the beginning of each performance because she loved it especially in her coffee. Celia won many awards and has her own star on Hollywood's Walk of Fame. She died July 16, 2003.)

Bio Poem

Thomas

Smart, Intelligent, Loving and a Perfectionist

Husband of Martha Wayles Skelton

Lover of Reading and Writing

Who Feels Joy, Grief and Love

Who Finds happiness in discovering knowledge

Who Needs is own time

Who Gives his guidance

Who Fears his debt

Who would like to see is wife again

Who Enjoys helping others

Resident of Shadwell, Virginia in the United States

Jefferson

Helen
Determined, hopeful, inspirational, successful
Friend of Anne Sullivan.
Lover of education, people, and traveling.
Who felt accomplished, happy, hopeful.
Who found happiness in helping others.
Who needed her teacher and mentor.
Who gives others hope.
Who feared seclusion, judgment, failure.
Who would like to have seen how her books have inspired others.
Who enjoyed helping others cope with their disabilities.
Who was born in Alabama and learned at Radcliffe College.
Keller

Abraham Lincoln

Abraham.
Leader, Intelligent, Busy, and Popular.
Father of Tad.
Lover of America, Tad, and Freedom.
Who feels sad, worried, and tired.
Who finds happiness in unity.
Who needs everyone to come together.
Who gives everything he has for what he believes in.
Who fears loss, separation, and disappointment.
Who would like to see America to become one.
Who enjoys time with his son.
Who likes to wear his stovepipe hat when addressing the people.
Lincoln.

Molly Bannaky

Molly
Daring, kind, determined, strong-hearted
Wife of Bannaaky, mother of Mary and three other daughters
Freedom, obstacles, triumphs
Strong, honest, sad
Loving her family
Nothing more than her family
Her all in everything
Some of her neighbors, the law, death
Slavery abolished
Raising her kids
Bonnet when it is sunny in the fields
New World, Maryland
Walsh/Bannaky

Nicolette Lovell, Assignment 5

Eleanor

A generous, kind, strong, and special lady

Wife of Franklin Delano Roosevelt

Lover of her family, the United States, and Human Rights

Who feels determined to improve the world in which she lives

Who finds happiness in helping others

Who needs the world to understand the importance of unity

Who gives to everyone in need with all of her heart

Who fears apathy, cruelty, and injustice

Who would like to see humanity improve itself

Who enjoys helping others

Who likes to wear many different hats when acting as the first lady

Resident of New York City and Washington DC

Roosevelt

Bio Poem

Elijah
Canadian, Inventor, Free, Educated
Son of George McCoy
Lover of Ann Elizabeth Stewart, and Mary Eleanora Delaney
Feeling Dedicated, Efficient, Creative
Finding his happiness in sharing his inventions with children
Yet needing a chance to show his inventions are the real deal
Giving full devotion to his work
Fears that he may never see his inventions work, that his ideas will be stolen, that he wont be a role model to the kids he tells to stay in school
He would like to see all his inventions put to the test of their full potential
Enjoying the hours of creating these designs
Who likes to wear a lab coat when inventing the next great product
Resident of Detroit, Michigan, The same neighborhood as the Mayor
McCoy

Assignment 5. Kayla Coleman

JUMP!

Michael

African American, Curious, Basketball Player, Troublemaker.

Brother of James Ronald, Deloris, Larry, & Roslyn.

Lover of Basketball, Family, & Carolina Tar heels.

Feels energetic, hard working, and accomplished.

Who finds happiness in his love and will for basketball.

Who needs someone to push him to succeed.

Who gives support to the younger generation.

Who fears being alone, defeat, & failure.

Who would like to see anyone succeed.

Who enjoys seeing people accomplish life goals.

Who wears Nike's when playing basketball.

Resident of Wallace, NC

Jordan

Magical

Harry

Magical, Strong, Brave, Mystifying

Husband of Bess Rahner

Lover of Magic, Attention and Escaping

Who feels confident, smart, and fearless

Who finds happiness in astonishing people

Who needs to push the limits

Who gives the gift of magic

Who fears injury, dying, and being poor

Who would like to see more books in his library

Who enjoys leaving people speechless

Who likes to wear handcuffs when performing a trick

Resident of New York City, New York

Houdini

Harriet Tubman

Harriet
Courageous, Strong, Loving, and Strong-Minded
Friend to all slaves
Lover of her family, freedom, and the North
Who feels joyful when she makes a safe passage, sadness when reminded of slavery and determination in freeing all slaves
Who finds happiness in helping others
Who needs help when conducting her train
Who gives new life to those who thought they would forever be enslaved
Who fears losing her family, being sold while she was a slave, and being caught by the angry whites once she escapes
Who would like to see all people, white and black, be treated as equals
Who enjoys her freedom
Who likes to wear bandanas when thinking of her days in slavery
Resident of Auburn New York
Tubman

Assignment 5. Kim MacDougall

Daniel

Explorer, husband, traveler, and father

Friend of Indians

Lover of animals, forests, and adventure

Who feels joyful when hunting, at home in the woods, and at peace with the world

Who finds happiness in nature

Who needs to explore

Who gives to the community

Who fears nothing

Who would like to see new settlements started

Who enjoys the outdoors

Who likes to wear coonskin caps when hunting

Resident of Boone North Carolina

Boone