Some things are important to know before you read! Some books aren’t for everyone. Make sure that the books your young student is reading is appropriate for them! If you haven’t read some prevalent classic books for young kids, that’s okay! You don’t have to read them all to understand the contextual elements of the novels. Broken down by age in a previous post, let’s go through these books and introduce some triggers or contextual points that are necessary to know before letting your child read them!
Charlotte’s Web
Charlotte’s Web tackles elements of death and losing someone dear to you. This book is recommended for students aged 6-8, but this does not mean that every student is a good fit for this book. Students that have lost a loved one at this very young age, especially if this loss was recent, may not find this book as easy to read as some of their peers. Although the book teaches the importance of enjoying the people around you while they are still here, this could be extremely difficult for a grieving young one.
Little Women
Little Women exemplifies multiple thematic elements that could present triggers for some readers. To begin, Little Women displays racism as it was during the setting of this book. Although the book does not encourage this but, elements of racism are displayed throughout the book which can be triggering. This book also introduces elements of sexism and a feminist movement through the main character. Although there are great aspects of the book that support feminism, there are also portions where women are stereotyped. There is also objectification in this book towards some of the women. Although this is a great book overall for young readers, there are still elements to consider.
The Adventures of Tom Sawyer
This book is great for readers ages 9-12! However, the behavior is slightly problematic throughout the duration of the book. Tom Sawyer is a mischievous character at times. Although this is fun to read about, the manipulation and characteristics of Tom in the book should not be reflected by the readers. The character is intriguing which can be misleading to young readers who find this character “cool.” It is important to combat the interest in the behavior with other great behaviors when young readers are reading this book.
How to Kill A Mockingbird
How to Kill a Mockingbird is heavily exemplifies the racial inequality that America experienced in the 1900s. This book is an exemplification of the improper procedures conducted by the police departments, unnecessary abuse, and racial slurs. This book is criticized by many and can be very triggering. The book, however, is great at raising awareness of how the society used to be. Unfortunately, the best way to learn is to hear and read about the hardest things that occurred. That does not mean, however, that each reader is equipped to handle the material. When choosing to read this book, it is advised to be very understanding of the elements located in the novel.
Jane Eyre
The biggest thematic element to be aware of in Jane Eyre is abuse. This can be a very triggering element in this novel as the abuse is described, evaluated, and referred back to many times. Another element to consider is mental illness. One of the biggest aspects of the book is portraying the effect of mental illness on a relationship, and a negative process of handling and managing this mental illness. Any reader hoping to read this book should understand that the process of managing this mental illness in the book is not ethically correct. Readers should also understand that individuals with a mental illness should always seek medical help.
The best way to read is to read informed! Stay informed about what your young readers are reading, and allow them to expand their mind through the safety of your judgement!