White Wash by Ntozake Shange
I was shocked when I realized this was based on a true story. I experienced emotions with this girl who's face was spray painted white by a white gang that attacked her and her brother after school one day. Her brother got punched in the face while she got spray painted white. The gang was saying how she should be white for a day and be American. I think this is a great book to read with children either in the school setting or at home because of the ending of the book.
This girl was very embarrassed of what happened and stayed in her room for a while. She didn't want to go to school at all. One day when she opened her door all her friends from school standing there waiting for her. They said, " If we all stick together, no one will bother you or anyone else." I really like this quote in the book because there is not only significance to the book but to a culture in the United States. It shows children that if we stand tall together side by side no matter what we look like we can face the troubles in the world that might be wrong or difficult to side with. Everyone has a right and should stand up for their rights or what they believe in.
It was hard for me to imagine that this was a controversial book. This book talks about a tough issue that needs to be addressed because it is prevalent in society today and kids still experience these types of action. I think banning this book sends the message that white people couldn't do such a thing and that what happened in the book is acceptable. Yes, this is a tough issue but is it controversial? I don't think so.
ReplyDeleteI realized this book was based on true incidents after I read it and I was completely shocked too. I can't imagine this actually happening but I think that knowing that makes it even more important to read to children. I think that showing them that this is something that is made up, it really happens. I loved the ending of the book, showing that no matter what skin color you have if we all stand together we can face tough issues. I also agree with Ashley, I don't see the controversy. This isn't a new issue in society and it isn't going to go away if we ban books that discuss it.
ReplyDeleteWow what an intense sounding book. It sounds like a great message in the book too. Possibly not suitable for younger children, but as they get older I think this sounds like a great book to really dig deep into. I bet you could spend a few days really talking about it and having a great discussion.
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