I'm glad you responded to this post, because I do think there are good arguments to made in favor of these books. As I mentioned in an earlier reply, I think it's important to clarify what the goal is in having students read. Many students don't read books at all. I would argue its more important just to get them to read anything. Reading good, higher quality books can come later. I think many students would prefer to read books that are fun, rather than depressing.



I think that many students (particularly in my wife's class) already know that life isn't perfect. I think it's important for students like these to know that life can be better. It could be encouraging for them to know there are families out there were the dad's not in jail and the mother's not an alcholic. Or that their best friend (or their dog) isn't necessarily going to die.

It's an interesting dilemma because I certainly see your point that it is important for these kids to know that they aren't the only ones in rough situations. It may be very helpful to these kids. I wonder if anyone's done any empirical studies. I'll hafta ask the wife....



I hear ya. I hated Great Expectations too. I probably should go back and read it now, but I just can't bring myself to.