Blog Partner Discussion #3: Multicultural Book
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Please discuss:
1. Your personal response to the book
2. Evaluate it in terms of its genre
3. ( Read Check out descriptions of genres at:
http://www.edu.uleth.ca/currlab/handouts/genres.html
4. Evaluate its literary quality
5. Evaluate its illustrations
6. Evaluate in terms of multicultural considerations including the credibility of the author and illustrator
7. Discuss for whom the book is intended and the ways in which it might be used in the classroom
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Brenda, today we will be discussing a multicultural book by the name of 'A Boy named Beconing-The true story of Dr carlos Montezuma, Native American Hero'. Personally, I am touched by the story. I am touched by the early separation and the fact that he never got the chance to reunite with his parents. I am however happy that Wassaja had the mental capacity to make something worthwhile of himself amd for his native American people. His courage and success is an inspiration to all. It proves that one can make it despite the odds. What is your response to this book?
ReplyDeleteIt is really a touching story. The plot is such that it could easily have led to a tragic end. Happily it didn't. This is very interesting, informative and entertaining.
ReplyDeleteThis interesting text is written in prose and falls in the category of mulitcultural literature. this book portrays cultural accuracy and authenticity of characters. Could you elaborate on this Brenda?
ReplyDeleteCultura accuracy is certainly present given that the main character is the author and it is adapted by Gina Capaldi. Having authentic photographs and letter allows the reader to get the true feelings of the character. A picture tells a thousand words and we could'nt ask for more.
ReplyDeleteIn support of cultural details, I agree that the illustrations provide information that is valuable. I have seen the dress worn by the apache indian as wellas the native American dwelling. Other cultural facts that surface are that there was a constant conflict between the pima and the Yavapa who were enemies before the white people came. It also shed some light on slavery where Native American Indians were taken during raid. The book is rich in culture.Lets talk about its literary quality.
ReplyDeleteThe language is realistic, words such as oo-wah the name for a grass hut,and mention of an actual places such as Iron Peak Plateau is helpful Also the names of individuals and tribes gives this a historical slant.
ReplyDeleteThe text is said to be suitable for ages 8-12 but I am sure it can be enjoyed by older readers. The language is simple and there are many pictures to support the text.
In terms of illustrations, I agree, they are enriching.The illustrations reinforce the text.They also establish mood. For example, having Wassaja in the middle of a circle sobbing, establishes the fact that he is lonely and sad. It also shows that he is in a strange setting. Later in the text, from the illustration, it is seen where Carlos' character is defined and developed.
ReplyDeleteThe work of the illustrator is credible. Capaldi has illustrated multiple textbooks, she studied fine arts and illustrations at the university level.
The setting changes from Iron Peak Plateau where the main character is captured, then moves through the desert, to various cities and finally ending in Chicago. There is also a map at the back of the text showing the area where his parents settled and searched for him. All these details make the text really realistic.
ReplyDeleteI think one important theme is perseverance. Despite his fright and fear Beckoning never gave up and grew up to make a great contribution to his people.
The theme that stood out for me is separation and loss. At the beginning of the story, the family was separated. As a result, the youngest child died, the two sisters went to different people and Wassaja was sold into slavery. This was rather painful for a mother. She tried to reunite but never made it across the other side. She was killed. This was painful for her husband who died of a broken heart. Wassaja never reunited with his sister or his father. This must have been painful.
ReplyDelete