When the graphic novels we were to read arrived in the mail I was disappointed. I instantly judged them, deeming the Pinocchio one scary and weird and Naruto just weird. As it happens, I should not have judged a book by its cover. While reading the Pinocchio book, I found myself laughing out loud often, and when it was over I was disappointed: I wanted to read more. I went online and found the author's website, where I discovered that the authors have been busy since they published the first novel: there was a description of a second book and some videos to watch as well; apparently I was not the only one who enjoyed the unlikely lovable novel. I went on to amazon immediately and ordered the second book (click here!). I am very excited to start the second installment, but mostly exhilarated that I found a new genre of books to get involved in that I previously thought to be odd!
Being that I love super hero and sci-fi films, I decided to look into purchasing some Marvel comics. I realized that there is an awesome book store in downtown Kent that has a wide selection of second hand books and comics! I went in and purchased a book that is a compilation of Marvel comic characters and their stories, and made a note to go back and purchase more in the series when I have a bit of spare money. Reading through this comic book gets me even more excited for the films coming out in the next few years involving Marvel characters: Thor, Captain America and The Avengers.
I am thrilled that I got into this genre, and it makes me think about how important it is to incorporate myriad of texts into my future English classroom. When I interviewed the Firestone student whom I tutored last semester, he mentioned that he would read more if he knew what to read. Based on these two revelations, I have decided that it is without a doubt crucial to include a choice project at least once during the school year in my plans, and also crucial for me to continue to expand my horizons in the literary world so I can make book recommendations for all types of students. Perhaps if I require students to read a graphic novel, listen to classical music or watch a foreign film I can ignite a new desire to indulge further in that text, as I did with graphic novels. For example, I can require students to read the original translated text of "Beowulf," then read the graphic novel as well. Additionally, I like the activity we did in class where students respond to bits of classical music, writing images and emotions they felt while they were listening--classical music would be a new text for middle school or high school students.
Overall, I am glad that I discovered the enjoyment in reading comics and graphic novels, and will be sure to include different texts in my future classroom in hopes that one or two students will make a similar discovery.
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