April 29, 2020: Esperanza Rising’s Theme of Hope: A Book for Use with Older Students

Today, I am continuing discussing the books that I recommended yesterday for students who are older and would like to read short stories, verse and novels. I cited eight titles and provided annotations for each. Each of the books focuses on the theme of resilience and with the ability to take perspective of self and others, students will be able to “see themselves through others’ experiences” and reflect on their lives in general.

Last year, I wrote a blog about books with the theme of “Kindness.” There, I referenced a book entitled Mirrors, Windows and Sliding Glass Doors by R.S. Bishop. This book is about choosing books that allow students to see themselves (as in a mirror), others’ actions (as through a window) and through sliding-glass doors (actually cooperatively experiencing something with another).

These analogies have been cited for a long time. They are particularly useful in the uncertain times we all face in 2019. All of the references presented yesterday allow readers/listeners to view the story through these “glasses,” and perhaps have a conversation about what happened.

During the next several days, I will provide a glimpse into each book and refer to the Story Grammar Marker^®. Today we will apply the Story Grammar Marker^® to Esperanza Rising, chapter 1.

I chose Esperanza Rising as the first in this series since Esperanza means “HOPE.” Hope is a vital character trait for us to focus on during these times. Through literature, students learn about themselves, through others’ experiences. They see resilience in action!