Immediately, I think that comic books are so helpful for students! It provides them a visual medium for text, and it is often less intimidating for them. What I really love about Martin's work is that it is quite bright and vibrant. It grabs the eye and is fun to take in as one is reading it. Too, Martin often does unique borders for his art here. Specifically, I liked the scene in the RV where other cells are above them as they travel.
We Need More Diverse Books Website
This website was very insightful. I looked at their programs, and they offer things like mentorships to marginalized authors to help them edit their work and seek publication. When it comes to what our students read, the literary canon has been the same for decades. Organizations like these are extremely helpful in getting material out that will reflect our students and current culture.
“Some of us slip and slide between an American-style name and a Mexican one.“
I thought this quote was very powerful and telling of the conflict that would be found throughout this book. The fact that there are American and Mexican names show a duality in identity found in these characters - the fact that they “slip and slide“ between these names/identities shows how they come and go based on their environment and other factors.
Comics Belong in the Classroom - video
I think what he said about the “permanence“ in comic books is an interesting idea. Giving students the ability to choose their own pace and the ability to go back and read something they did not understand is very helpful for a teacher. Instead of having to “hold the hands“ of the students, they can allow them their own autonomy to go back and reread the things they need to.
pickThe last time I read this book I was 19, barely out, completely new to the concept of lesbian literature. This may have been the first coming out memoir I ever read. This time, less easily enraptured, I was struck by the themes of literature‘s centrality in helping us make sense of our lives and connect to one another. The vital necessity of our existence!!
A beautiful reread during #TradPride (gay guy parties 🤝 lesbian literary stuff)
pickLoved this graphic novel. The MC was a teen during my teen years, so it was a nice little trip down nostalgia. I mean, who didn't try to communicate with Kurt via Ouija?
#NotAnotherGraphicNovel
“Proper gentleman‘s sport, hunting. When you see the fear in an animal‘s eyes, it‘s about superiority, *dominance*…”
“haha I would like to leave”
—
“I hope your disappointment will not be lasting, but nothing could be farther from my wishes. I can‘t imagine *ever* falling in love and have *no thoughts of ever getting married.*”
“…Oh-ho. I see. You‘re *testing* me.”
“Philip no”
“Young ladies love to be chased…”
“You are entirely mistaken”
😂😩🙄
pickThis was a sweet Jane-Austen-inspired graphic novel with a queer/trans twist. I loved the characters and the artwork, and really appreciated the way the book acknowledges the reality of queer and BIPOC experiences in the Regency era, yet still maintains a delightfully lighthearted tone—with humor and a sweet romance. The historical notes at the end give great context and really ground the story in its Regency-era setting.
As a teacher, I believe Pedro‘s interests as an adolescent can be used to understand our students. He loves reading comics, but often describes a disdain for school. For kids who express similar interests and dislikes, graphic novels, like comics, can be a great way for them to approach literature in a different way. Today, there are so many adaptations of classic texts we can use to better reach our students in English Ed classrooms.
With Cart‘s chapter on YA Literature, Mexikid demonstrates the awkwardness of adolescence. Pedro, the protagonist, is attempting to earn the respect of a man, while still learning from boyish mistakes. Throughout the story, Pedro wants to be included with his older siblings, but is still hesitant to step out of his comfort zone. From learning to drive, to being there for his family, to saving the deer, he learns that growing up isn't always easy.
