I’m leading into the last month of my tenth grader’s school year and I have to say…I’m learning more this year than last year. I have learned more about Realism and the origins of Science Fiction. But the magical realism lesson stuck with me the most, mainly because I can finally put a name to it.
I have a month and a half left of school and then my students will be able to enjoy the fine relaxation of the summer holiday. Sure, I’m contractually obligated to do the summer camps, but I’m looking at the prize at the end of it all: New Zealand. That’s right. I’m planning my trip to the Land of the Long White Cloud. Or would “Middle Earth” sound better. Either way, I am beyond excited to go as it has been on my list of places to travel to.
For 2024, I’m doing something different. Instead of telling you every story I’ve read each month, I will tell you my top five favorites for each month. So! While I have read twenty books for March, here are my Top 5 favorites.
The Sins of the Fathers by Zukiswa Wanner
To read a story about how trauma affects the relationships of a generation is something I haven’t come across in such a long time. The abuse of one man affects the abuse his son receives in his relationship is actually pure genius. This is why this story is so compelling. It is a must-listen because the cycle of abuse-victim is all too real in our community.
There Will Come Soft Rains by Ray Bradbury
So! How do you make your reader empathize with a house? Well…that’s why I love this story. I had to read it for one class; I think it was my Fiction Fundamentals class. Before that, I remembered reading it when I was an undergrad though I don’t think it was for class. Still, I’m glad I did because it’s the perfect teaching tool for characterization.
Beyond the Door by Philip K. Dick
Before there was R.L. Stine’s Cuckoo Clock of Doom, it was this little gem from one of the most brilliant science fiction writers. I love stories that create suspension over the most mundane items. It’s a true testament to a writer’s ability to build suspense. Plus, it’s always delightful to see another bully take down a couple of pegs…maybe not death, though…but it was the 1950s so it’s to be expected.
Examination Day by Henry Slesar
I saw the Twilight Zone of this story when I was young; it was the first revival of the TV series. The episode was great and it really resonated with me and my worries about the government keeping us “dumb” out of fear. So! Imagine my surprise when I learned that was originally a short story. Of course, I had to read it. And…of course, it’s just as horrifying as the TV episode – or vice versa.
Harrison Bergeron by Kut Vonnegut Jr.
I remember reading this story in my undergraduate years for my first English class. It was part of a greater collection of sci-fi short stories. So, when I had to take my Fiction Fundamental course, I was so happy that this story was on the list. Everybody wants to be equal, right? Well…be careful what you wish for…