I teach this novel (by my choice) in an American Literature course during our contemporary authors unit. It coincides well with our US History course and we schedule this so that the 1950s and 1960s are the main topic in their history classroom.
Beyond the historical significance, what do you feel is most teachable in this novel? Character development? Repetition and aphorisms? ("Dancing is life" or "Life turns on a dime") Relationships between characters? Theme?
I did not anticipate the relationship my students (15-18 year olds) would feel toward Sadie. I loved Sadie as a character, but I identified more with Jake/George. After Part 5, students are inevitably very upset with King. (No spoiler here).
Thoughts?
Thanks!
Beyond the historical significance, what do you feel is most teachable in this novel? Character development? Repetition and aphorisms? ("Dancing is life" or "Life turns on a dime") Relationships between characters? Theme?
I did not anticipate the relationship my students (15-18 year olds) would feel toward Sadie. I loved Sadie as a character, but I identified more with Jake/George. After Part 5, students are inevitably very upset with King. (No spoiler here).
Thoughts?
Thanks!