Book Round-Up for June 27: Exploring Superheroes

I've always been intrigued by literary criticism and analysis of popular culture, and lately, I've been indulging this interest by reading books that examine the meaning and reach of superheroes. In many ways, these books act both as literary analysis and social commentary. While literature, and the arts and humanities, have always shaped and reflected culture, this seems to be especially true when it comes to thinking about comics. Superman, Batman, and others not only cater to the needs and interests of their readers, they also leave indelible marks on popular culture and society's mindset.

The following books would be great to offer as options for independent reading or as a way of engaging reluctant readers (even though they are a bit on the long side). Additionally, they can provide a fun way of introducing students to literary criticism and analysis while using texts and subjects students are familiar with.

The Perfect Poem for Hard Times: Lin-Manuel Miranda's Sonnet

After the tragic events in Orlando, Florida yesterday, the many people involved with the Tony Awards had a difficult decision to make. Should they postpone the show, as was done with the Emmys in the wake of 9/11? Or should they go ahead with the show and the telecast? If they decided to do the show, how could they strike the balance between celebrating Broadway while also acknowledging the grief that the nation was feeling?

Fortunately, at least from my point of view, the Tony Awards did go forward and found the right tone. This was due, in large part, to many of the speeches. From host James Corden's opening at the very beginning of the telecast (with him and the awards show audience facing the camera) to Frank Langella's acceptance speech for his best actor in a play, the Tonys showcased not just the immense talent found on Broadway but also the kindness and compassion that many theatre people have. Additionally, and in contrast with some of the horrible things that people were saying online after the shootings, the show highlighted the ability of words to heal and provide comfort during times of despair.

As a poetry lover, I found Lin-Manuel Miranda's acceptance speech for best score particularly moving. Done in sonnet form and directed to his wife, Miranda, as he often does, found a way to make his message moving on a public and personal level.

My wife’s the reason anything gets done

She nudges me towards promise by degrees

She is a perfect symphony of one

Our son is her most beautiful reprise.

We chase the melodies that seem to find us

Until they’re finished songs and start to play

When senseless acts of tragedy remind us

That nothing here is promised, not one day.

This show is proof that history remembers

We lived through times when hate and fear seemed stronger;

We rise and fall and light from dying embers, remembrances that hope and love last longer

And love is love is love is love is love is love is love is love cannot be killed or swept aside.

I sing Vanessa’s symphony, Eliza tells her story

Now fill the world with music, love and pride.

Book Round-Up for June 6, 2016

After dedicating the first book round-up post on nonfiction picture books, I thought that this second post would be a great time to write about nonfiction YAL. I have long enjoyed nonfiction (in fact, I often prefer nonfiction to fiction), and I especially love the nonfiction YAL that is available. Besides being engagingly written, these books offer some great opportunities for interdisciplinary connections and readings in various subject areas.

A few notes regarding these book round-ups, if you have any suggestions for books I should feature, please let me know! Also, I plan on posting these semi-regularly. I initially planned on doing them on a weekly basis, but given other responsibilities, I've decided to do them a minimum of once a month.

picture from Sarah Miller's website

June's Online Professional Development Opportunities

I know - it can be a little hard to even think about professional development in June, just as you are coming off of (or finishing up) another busy school year. However, kicking off your summer (or ending your school year) with some professional development can be great; besides being a chance to connect with other educators and reflect on the past year, it also can be nice to be in more of the student role for a change. With this in mind, here are some intriguing online professional development opportunities that are being offered this month.